Final answer:
The construction of a water system was the most significant improvement to Tulsa’s infrastructure, providing essential fresh water and sanitation which are crucial for public health and urban living.
Step-by-step explanation:
Considering the innovations that were significant in shaping urbanization at the turn of the century, the construction of a water system could be seen as the most significant improvement to the infrastructure of Tulsa. This is because basic necessities such as fresh water and proper sanitation are fundamental for urban life and often pose a greater challenge in urban settings as compared to rural areas. Efficient water systems are essential to accommodate the needs of a growing population and to ensure public health and safety. While other options like forming the IPE, building the telegraph system, and the addition of banks were also important, they did not directly address the basic living conditions of the residents. The development and expansion of the railroads and the telegraph were crucial in enhancing internal development and facilitating trade, thus promoting urban growth, but the direct impact on the daily lives of individuals would have been most profoundly felt through the improvements in water infrastructure.