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NORMAN, Okla. (KOKH) \u2014 <\/span>A controversial entertainment district is Norman is taking a big step forward.<\/p>\n On Tuesday, city leaders will gather for the groundbreaking of the Rock Creek Entertainment District. <\/p>\n Organizers say the Rock Creek Entertainment District will be a transformative mixed-use destination in Norman, featuring entertainment, dining, hospitality, residential living, and vibrant public gathering spaces.<\/p>\n The district will be located on approximately 269 acres near I-35 and Rock Creek Road.<\/p>\n The Rock Creek Entertainment District project has been the subject of controversy for months with many Norman residents concerned about how the project will be funded.<\/a><\/p>\n The total $1 billion project includes plans for a new University of Oklahoma basketball and gymnastics arena. The development would also expand the University North Park to add additional hotel, office, residential, and retail spaces with a public plaza.<\/p>\n In September, the Norman City Council voted to move forward with the project, which included a funding plan utilizing tax increment financing, or TIF for short.<\/p>\n Residents opposed to the $600 million TIF gathered signatures in response, arguing a project of its size deserved city-wide input.<\/p>\n