Brushy is a nature-filled neighborhood near Sallisaw
Looking at the nature-filled community of Brushy makes it hard to believe the growing city of Sallisaw is only 9 miles away. Homes sit on acres of land that allow them to garden, farm or even maintain a small barn. The area offers a sense of seclusion that encourages people to support one another. The Brushy Community Center is a perfect example of this, constantly advertising free, fresh produce on its Facebook page or coordinating a fundraiser that benefits students and neighbors. “The community is very family-oriented and close knit,” says Jennifer Bramer, Realtor with Pilkington Real Estate. Sallisaw's proximity makes it easy for residents to enjoy a night out or attend one of the city’s events.
Brushy Lake and Sallisaw parks
Part of the neighborhood's appeal is all the outdoor things to do, such as visiting Brushy Lake. “You can take your boat and go fishing, and a lot of people swim out on the lake,” Bramel says. However, water skiing is not allowed. Campsites and hiking trails surround the lake, which is one of Sallisaw’s water sources. The Brushy Community Center, run in part by the Brushy Cherokee Action Association, hosts food drives and fundraisers. In Sallisaw, folks can run around the playground and splash pad at Jay Reynolds Park or attend Storytime at Stanley Tubbs Memorial Library.
Homes in Brushy are on acres of land
Residents of Brushy enjoy a secluded life, with a dense forest surrounding their acres of land. Most properties were built after the late 20th century, on lots averaging at least 3 acres. Ranch styles and manufactured homes range from $150,000 to $275,000. Contemporary houses are more expensive, with recent prices listed between $350,000 and $475,000. Lot sizes can be anywhere from one to 20 acres and can cost between $15,000 and $75,000. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) identifies part of Brushy as a Special Flood Hazard Area. While most homes are likely unaffected, owners are encouraged to purchase flood insurance, and it is required for anyone with a federally backed mortgage. FEMA says homes have a relatively moderate risk of tornadoes, although basic homeowners insurance should cover any wind damage.
Students have a choice of two high schools
Brushy is not assigned to any one school district. Instead, students complete kindergarten through eighth grade at Brushy Public School, which Niche grades a C-plus. “It’s a wonderful school system,” Bramel says. High schoolers will either attend Central High School or Sallisaw High School. Both schools earn a B and partner with the Indian Capital Technology Center to offer career and technical education courses such as practical nursing.
Cars required to get around
Because the community is so rural, cars are a necessity. U.S. Highway 59 runs through the neighborhood and leads about 9 miles into Sallisaw. U.S. 59 also connects to Interstate 40 and goes into Fort Smith, about 50 miles away. While the Sallisaw Municipal Airport is only about 11 miles away, it does not offer commercial flights. Residents have to drive 49 miles to the Fort Smith Regional Airport. The closest hospital is Northeastern Health System Sequoyah, about 8 miles away.
Diamond Daze and chili in Sallisaw
People make the trip from Brushy to Sallisaw for Diamond Daze, an annual community celebration usually held the first weekend in May. Attendees explore a car show, play yard games and cast their votes in Our Finger Lickin’ BBQ Contest. Runners can enter a 5k race. In the fall, residents gather in the city for Cruizin’ 64. Sallisaw Main Street Inc. and the Sallisaw Chamber of Commerce put together this annual car show with live music. The highlight of the day is the chili cook-off.
Most people go to Sallisaw for shopping and dining
Residents will almost always have to travel into Sallisaw when they need to shop or get dinner. As Bramel says, “There’s nothing but a Dollar General” in Brushy. When in the city, she recommends visiting J&D’s Cowtown, a family-owned steakhouse with a menu that spans beyond steaks to include seafood boils and fajitas. For an option closer to home, folks can visit Akins Store for barbecue. The restaurant doubles as a feed store, so both people and animals can enjoy a bite to eat. The closest grocery store is the Walmart in Sallisaw. Most other major retailers, including Home Depot and Target, can be found in Fort Smith.
