When it opened in 1969 Pioneer Plaza became the first purpose-built public housing project completed by the newly formed Tulsa Housing Authority specifically for low-income senior citizens. The 200 units at Pioneer Plaza provided one-quarter of the housing needed for the qualifying population. The 11-story building reflect federal policy, which limited high-rise buildings to use for senior housing only.

Prior to the construction of Pioneer Plaza, the Tulsa Housing Authority housed seniors at downtown hotels. By contrast, Pioneer Plaza offered more home-like conditions with one and two-bedroom apartments that residents could furnish themselves. In addition to private balconies at each apartment, the building had shared community rooms. The location just north of downtown, offered a park-like setting as well as easy access to public transportation and downtown shopping.

Pioneer Plaza was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2022.