Norman Rock Creek Entertainment District groundbreaking set for May 12<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nThe Rock Creek Entertainment District is planned as a 269-acre development near Interstate 35 and Rock Creek Road. Organizers say the project will feature entertainment, retail, hospitality and housing components designed to create a walkable, year-round destination in Norman. <\/p>\n
The University of Oklahoma Foundation announced Rainier Development Company as the district\u2019s master developer on April 14.<\/p>\n
Plans for the district include a multipurpose performance venue, restaurants, retail space, office development, a hotel and multiple housing options. Officials say the development is intended to support tourism and economic growth in Norman and throughout Cleveland County.<\/p>\n
\u201cGreat communities don\u2019t just happen. They are built intentionally, collaboratively, and with a shared vision,\u201d City of Norman Councilmember Scott Dixon said. \u201cWhat we break ground on today is more than just concrete and steel. It\u2019s opportunity.\u201d<\/p>\n
Several leaders spoke during Tuesday\u2019s ceremony, including University of Oklahoma President Joseph Harroz Jr., Rainier Companies CEO Danny Lovell and Norman Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Scott Martin.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere\u2019s a deep sense of pride in helping create something that will have a lasting impact on a place that\u2019s meant so much to me and my family,\u201d Lovell said. \u201cWe are committed to delivering a district that this community and generations can be proud of.\u201d<\/p>\n
Project organizers estimate the development could generate more than $1 billion in total investment, including roughly $800 million in private capital. Officials also say the district is expected to create more than 3,000 construction and permanent jobs over time.<\/p>\n
\u201cToday we are making history,\u201d Harroz said. \u201cThis is the fastest growth moment that we\u2019ve had in more than 50 years.\u201d<\/p>\n
The project has faced opposition from some Norman residents, including a legal challenge that reached the Oklahoma Supreme Court. In February, the court upheld a ruling invalidating a proposed referendum petition that sought to put the project before voters.<\/p>\n
SEE ALSO: <\/b>Oklahoma Supreme Court upholds ruling invalidating Norman TIF referendum petition<\/b><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nWith construction now underway, developers say the Rock Creek Entertainment District will continue moving forward as planned. The planned completion date is sometime in 2029.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n