Governor Launches Operation SAFE Cleanup in Norman Following Recent Incident

OKLAHOMA CITY (May 22, 2026) - Today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced that the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is wrapping up cleanup efforts on state-owned property in Norman as part of Operation SAFE. Troopers have been working along the 200 block of South Reed Avenue following a recent overdose death in the encampment.

Operation SAFE, first launched in Tulsa, is a statewide initiative focused on restoring safety and cleanliness by cleaning up homeless encampments, trash, and hazardous debris from state-owned property. Under this effort, OHP addresses areas such as underpasses, highways, and other state-controlled land where it has clear legal authority and responsibility.

During the operation, troopers cleared several acres of state property and recovered thousands of needles and other dangerous materials from the area.

“Allowing people to sleep under a bridge or in a park is not compassionate,” said Governor Stitt. “The recent overdose death in this area and the encampment’s proximity to a residential area presents safety risks for everyone. Operation SAFE has already delivered results in other parts of the state, and the Norman business community took note.”

As part of the state’s broader response, officials are encouraging community members to connect individuals in need with available services through the “Be A Neighbor” initiative. This effort helps Oklahomans access housing, food, and behavioral health resources by linking them with nonprofit and faith-based organizations in their area. More information is available here.

###