OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — A new entertainment district is coming to Norman, and on Tuesday, project leaders officially broke ground. Plans include bringing dining, retail, sporting events, and more to the development.
“This is a moment I know you can’t sit around and celebrate for a long time because there’s always more work to be done. But today is a day of celebration, because today we’re worthy of history and today we are making history,” said Joseph Harroz Jr., President of OU.
Supreme Court clears way for Norman Entertainment District, OU arena without public vote
However, getting to a history-making point was a rocky road for the Rock Creek District as it faced controversy with how the $1 billion project would be funded.
“This development is funded 80% by cap on private capital, 20% through the TIFF, meaning that when you eat, shop, and enjoy the events here, your tax dollars stay here and help build it,” said Rod Cleveland, Cleveland County Commissioner, District 1.
Two months ago, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled the project can move forward, which gave the green light for the team to break ground.
In addition to a hotel, residential options, and retail, the plans also include a new University of Oklahoma basketball and gymnastics arena.
Courtesy: The Rock Creek District
Courtesy: The Rock Creek District
Courtesy: The Rock Creek District
Courtesy: The Rock Creek District
Courtesy: The Rock Creek District
“We’re very excited about Oklahoma basketball and gymnastics, the events that will be hosted here, the concerts and community gatherings, and just as importantly, the everyday life that will fill these streets behind me. People meeting friends, grabbing dinner, and truly enjoying being here,” said Danny Lovell, The Rainier Companies CEO.
The Rock Creek District is also expected to bring more than 3,000 construction and permanent jobs to Norman.
Right now, the team is anticipating a 2028 completion date.
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