The Tulsa Forum by TulsaNow

Talk About Tulsa => Development & New Businesses => Topic started by: BKDotCom on October 04, 2018, 03:16:02 pm



Title: The "this has nothing to do with Tulsa" mega-post
Post by: BKDotCom on October 04, 2018, 03:16:02 pm
http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=549-IKEA-considering-Oklahoma-City

The ultimate big box store?  
I'm not a fan of big-box stores, but it's safe to say that'd definitely be a win for OKC


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: clubtokyo on October 07, 2018, 07:54:28 pm
From a retail perspective it makes way more sense for ikea to choose Tulsa. However ikea is not likely to choose Oklahoma at all and this all a rumor. DFW has 3 ikeas within a 3 hour drive for OKC and 4 hour for Tulsa in addition to KC 4 hours. It makes no business sense for ikea to build in Oklahoma. Before everyone yells at me, I was born and raised in Tulsa and lived in OKC for years. Now live in Texas. I am always rooting for Tulsa. OKC sucks. Lol


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 08, 2018, 10:51:55 am
You have to wonder if the pull Tulsa receives from NW Arkansas will play any part in this (if actually true) and any future retail announcements.  People there historically have driven the 2 hours on Hwy 412 for shopping (less so now that they have a lot of the same stores) but definitely for concerts and also for Southwest flights from TIA.  NW Ark. is a metro of 525,000 with a moderate growth rate and decent average incomes due to the Wal-Mart/Tyson corporate HQ's.  Combine that with Tulsa's CSA population and that's 1.7 million, and probably around 2 million with the rest of NE Oklahoma included.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 08, 2018, 12:25:10 pm
I don’t believe this rumor. Ikea has stopped/canceled four planned expansions in the last few months in metros larger than Oklahoma City saying they are changing their focus from suburban areas and want to focus on stores in urban centers and online sales. They canceled planned stores in Raleigh-Durham, Nashville and one Glendale, AZ, which would have been a second Phoenix store and IKEA ended negations for a Cleveland area store. What’s more, tariffs are hitting retail construction hard.

North Oklahoma City is in no way an “urban center” and OKC doesn’t have the retail market of any of those cities. It makes no sense.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: DowntownDan on October 08, 2018, 02:40:02 pm
I'm not buying that they want to build in "urban centers."  They have been extraordinarily successful with their current model, massive big box in the suburbs with an ocean of parking.  They won't get that in urban centers.  Urban dwellers will go to IKEA as a destination.  That northern part of OKC fits perfectly with what they've been doing.  If they are not building there it would likely be because it's not a big enough metro and statistics probably show that Oklahomans for the most part will go to Dallas or Kansas City for IKEA.  No real need to build in OKC or Tulsa.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 08, 2018, 03:22:51 pm
I'm not buying that they want to build in "urban centers."  They have been extraordinarily successful with their current model, massive big box in the suburbs with an ocean of parking.  They won't get that in urban centers.  Urban dwellers will go to IKEA as a destination.  That northern part of OKC fits perfectly with what they've been doing.  If they are not building there it would likely be because it's not a big enough metro and statistics probably show that Oklahomans for the most part will go to Dallas or Kansas City for IKEA.  No real need to build in OKC or Tulsa.

I'm not making this up. City Centers is where they are going:
Quote
Last year, Ikea saw a 40 percent drop in U.K. profits, prompting the Swedish retailer to rethink its strategy. Instead of building big-box hubs on the outskirts of cities (the company has pulled the plug on what would have been the second largest Ikea location in the U.K.), Ikea will begin rolling out a series of smaller retail experiences in the heart of urban centers
https://www.curbed.com/2018/7/25/17611610/ikea-small-format-stores-london-uk

And they aren't doing that well:
Quote
Despite its fervent fan base, the company has seen declines in revenue growth and net income in recent years. Sales increased by more than 8% in 2015 and 2016, but fell short of 4% growth in the most recent two years, according to IBISWorld. Meanwhile, net income fell by more than 40% in the last fiscal year.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2018/06/01/ikea-axes-three-new-u-s-stores-looks-beef-up-online-sales/662598002/

And this:
Quote
IKEA said pulling out of the the Cary location was not about any deficiencies in the town, but was part of a corporate strategy to curtail some of its expansion projects and focus on other initiatives.

"Over the last year, IKEA U.S. has been on a journey to expand our multi-channel shopping experience with new retail locations, enhanced technology and greater accessibility to meet today’s customers where they are in today’s fast-changing retail environment," Ikea said in a statement to The News & Observer. "As part of this journey, we have challenged ourselves to re-evaluate some of our upcoming expansion projects. While this is an extremely difficult decision, we will not be moving forward with our plans to build a store in Cary, N.C. We appreciate the outpouring of support and excitement that our fans have expressed, and we are disappointed that we will not be able to physically join the vibrant Cary community. "

A spokeswoman said the company wasn't in a position to disclose whether other expansion projects will proceed or not, some of which are already under development. Last year, Ikea announced it would open stores in Nashville and in Glendale, Arizona, in 2020.
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article211750844.html

And Nashville and Glendale ALSO were canceled, with the same quote:
https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/glendale/2018/05/25/ikea-cancels-plans-build-glendale-store/646669002/
https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2018/05/31/antioch-nashville-plans-move-past-ikea-loss-business/655317002/

And stopped negotiations with a suburban Cleveland site:
https://www.clevescene.com/scene-and-heard/archives/2018/09/14/that-garfield-heights-ikea-aint-happening

IKEA has changed what they have been doing. North Oklahoma City is the old model.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 09, 2018, 09:59:35 am
I like Ikea and have used it probably more than most Oklahomans and I get the hype. However, they've made it where shipping is pretty affordable (Was ~$9 for my last online order and ~$90 when I ordered a pallet or two of cabinets). What's so great about having an international company move in and siphon profits from Oklahoma to another country? Sure the alternatives are probably Target/Amazon/Walmart but at least those are American companies.

I get having one a bit closer would be more convenient for Oklahomans, but with the new shipping rates, it's much easier to order online. If you go into an Ikea, you're bound to buy more than you planned and get some things you don't really need. That's how they thrive. It can be a retail boost for the area, but I've been to a couple Ikeas that were basically parking lot ghost towns with basically nothing else close enough to benefit (and besides, it takes so long, it's a 1-stop trip for the majority of people going there).

Ikea was really great 8+ years ago when there really wasn't much competition in terms of prices and especially style, but other places have really upped their game along with online options driving down prices/styles available. Plus the Ikea-look is pretty recognizable and not so great or cutting edge anymore. Basically make anything into almost perfect square shapes or add clean radii on edges. Modern!


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 09, 2018, 01:51:49 pm
IKEA also caters to many college students. OKC is very centrally located with 3 of the state's largest universities (OU, OSU, UCO) close; also it's close enough to serve Tulsa.  Now this is by no means a done deal.   As one poster mentioned; they (IKEA) have been known to not follow through or abandoned interest.

Either city (Tulsa or Oklahoma City) would be situated for one city to pull customers from the other;  location probably will be a factor IF IKEA locates in Oklahoma. 



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 09, 2018, 02:35:04 pm
IKEA also caters to many college students. OKC is very centrally located with 3 of the state's largest universities (OU, OSU, UCO) close; also it's close enough to serve Tulsa.  Now this is by no means a done deal.   As one poster mentioned; they (IKEA) have been known to not follow through or abandoned interest.

Either city (Tulsa or Oklahoma City) would be situated for one city to pull customers from the other;  location probably will be a factor IF IKEA locates in Oklahoma. 



Ikea caters mostly to young professional, 20-something to 30-somethings, and young families. Their customer base is mostly 22-34 year olds. I don't think being close to colleges is that important as college students have far less disposable income and much lower need for furniture than young professionals. Tulsa and OKC are likely pretty even in terms of number 22-34 year olds within a 2 hour drive. OKC metro will have significantly more but Tulsa is much better situated to service NWA (including UofA) plus ORU, TU, RSU, NSU's, OSU's, et al and is the home metro of a large number of OU students too. They definitely need that group to be customers after graduation but Tulsa seems to cover a bit more ground regionally.

Based on Ikea cutting back and boost in online supply, I don't see them adding a location in Oklahoma. There's always a rumor about this place going in that place (See the Google Fiber rumors coming to Oklahoma).


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 10, 2018, 12:33:05 pm
Ikea caters mostly to young professional, 20-something to 30-somethings, and young families. Their customer base is mostly 22-34 year olds. I don't think being close to colleges is that important as college students have far less disposable income and much lower need for furniture than young professionals. Tulsa and OKC are likely pretty even in terms of number 22-34 year olds within a 2 hour drive. OKC metro will have significantly more but Tulsa is much better situated to service NWA (including UofA) plus ORU, TU, RSU, NSU's, OSU's, et al and is the home metro of a large number of OU students too. They definitely need that group to be customers after graduation but Tulsa seems to cover a bit more ground regionally.

Based on Ikea cutting back and boost in online supply, I don't see them adding a location in Oklahoma. There's always a rumor about this place going in that place (See the Google Fiber rumors coming to Oklahoma).

We can all make a case for IKEA to be in either city.  Right now their eyes are on OKC.  I'm not a fan of online purchases for certain items--it makes a great difference when you visit the showrooms, see, feel, smell & touch the products you plan to purchase--that's the old school in me.

Tulsa is poised for growth; possesses many quality retail stores.   OKC lately has an influx of retail & distribution planned or currently under construction; the difference, OKC's growth rate has made it attractive to many establishments that chose Tulsa and bypassed OKC earlier.

The Memorial Road corridor in far north area of OKC continues to be the focus of many big-box retailers and new-to-market chains.

I moved back to OKC from the Metroplex (DFW) in the late 90s, my visits to Tulsa (son lives in & loves T-town) have always been pleasant.  Tulsa is on the verge with a lot of impressive progress; however if you haven't been to OKC of late it's a totally different place than the late 80s & early 90s. OKC's central location and access from I-35/I-40 (Americas crossroads) has been a plus for a city positioned near Wichita & Tulsa.  Oklahoma City is undergoing a complete $1.2 general obligation bonds/MAPS initative package to upgrade/replace roads, bridges, parks, Hall of Fame Stadium, Chesapeake Energy Arena; this is exclusive of the current $777 million of MAPS III projects under construction which includes a new convention center, downtown park,  Streetcar and Riversport Rapids rafting facility.  You'll see a $2 billion economic boost ($987 bonds/$240 million MAPS initiative) that doesn't include private development planned.

Again, IKEA is considering OKC; you bet they didn't overlook Tulsa.




Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 10, 2018, 01:19:32 pm

Again, IKEA is considering OKC; you bet they didn't overlook Tulsa.


They aren't considering OKC: http://www.oudaily.com/news/ikea-calls-report-they-are-coming-to-okc-area-purely/article_c8d150a4-c7eb-11e8-a929-63fdd13877e5.html (http://www.oudaily.com/news/ikea-calls-report-they-are-coming-to-okc-area-purely/article_c8d150a4-c7eb-11e8-a929-63fdd13877e5.html)

Quote
a representative of the Swedish-based chain has refuted this claim.


They aren't considering either place, but most all arguments for OKC Ikea location make as much/more sense when applied to Tulsa. OKC isn't close to any major metro areas that aren't also close to Tulsa (For example, Wichita is about as far from Tulsa/OKC) while Tulsa also has NW Arkansas and it's nearly 1 million inhabitants, not to mention SW Missouri that's far more populated than western Oklahoma. There are around 3.5 million within 2.5 hour drive of Tulsa compared to about 2.2 million for OKC.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 10, 2018, 01:41:53 pm
OKCTalk forum has a 'Tulsa & suburbs development' thread.   Would be nice if any TulsaNow posters could contribute to this thread so as to keep us informed of the many projects planned for the Tulsa community.

OKCTalk (Tulsa & Suburbs):  http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=154 (http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=154)

(http://www.skylinescenes.com/image?filename=tulsa_15_9440_up.jpg&width=580&height=0) (https://mlsvc01-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/eed4cac7201/f21e749c-b922-4b4f-9ef5-07f9a66ad6a4.jpg)

Tulsa & Oklahoma City are our state's two major MSAs, it's exciting to see all the growth planned; also equally disappointing to see the projects and developments that didn't mature to full fruition.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 10, 2018, 01:54:33 pm
They aren't considering OKC: http://www.oudaily.com/news/ikea-calls-report-they-are-coming-to-okc-area-purely/article_c8d150a4-c7eb-11e8-a929-63fdd13877e5.html (http://www.oudaily.com/news/ikea-calls-report-they-are-coming-to-okc-area-purely/article_c8d150a4-c7eb-11e8-a929-63fdd13877e5.html)


They aren't considering either place, but most all arguments for OKC Ikea location make as much/more sense when applied to Tulsa. OKC isn't close to any major metro areas that aren't also close to Tulsa (For example, Wichita is about as far from Tulsa/OKC) while Tulsa also has NW Arkansas and it's nearly 1 million inhabitants, not to mention SW Missouri that's far more populated than western Oklahoma. There are around 3.5 million within 2.5 hour drive of Tulsa compared to about 2.2 million for OKC.

Thanks for the updated info & source; the source cited sounds very credible, another disappointment...


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 10, 2018, 02:23:51 pm
OKCTalk forum has a 'Tulsa & suburbs development' thread.   Would be nice if any TulsaNow posters could contribute to this thread so as to keep us informed of the many projects planned for the Tulsa community.

OKCTalk (Tulsa & Suburbs):  http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=154 (http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=154)

Tulsa & Oklahoma City are our state's two major MSAs, it's exciting to see all the growth planned; also equally disappointing to see the projects and developments that didn't mature to full fruition.



Thanks for sharing that! Didn't realize there was a board about Tulsa developments over there. Good to see that some in OKC are informed about Tulsa developments. There was a lot of chatter about how much better and more advanced OKC is when the "Ikea to OKC" rumor started (i.e: https://old.reddit.com/r/oklahoma/comments/9lcx5e/ikea_considering_oklahoma_city/e765878/ (https://old.reddit.com/r/oklahoma/comments/9lcx5e/ikea_considering_oklahoma_city/e765878/)) and seems like most in OKC don't understand what all is going on in Tulsa (We had CostCo yeard before OKC is getting one, Tulsa has an Urban Outfitters, had uber/lyft first and has a Trader Joe's. The recently completed Gathering Place is the best most-expensive city park in the United States.).

Tulsa was behind in the urban revival it was late to add taxes to pay for improvements and also because most of Tulsa's midtown areas (Like Maple Ridge, Brookside, Florence Park, Yorktown, Utica Square, Cherry Street, Ranch Acres, Bryan Mahr, etc) were thriving throughout its history so there was nothing to renew. OKC's urban core was pretty much gutted economically for several decades so it had nowhere to go but up with ample cheap land/houses for developers. Commercial/Industrial land in the core of Tulsa remained pretty pricey and industry continued pretty thoroughly in a lot of the run down neighborhoods (although housing in a few inner-city neighborhoods got really cheap for a while). Now its especially tough to buy anything except at the "developer price".

OKC was smart getting a head start in urban development but Tulsa has definitely caught up with better more complete urban districts that are surrounded by very nice housing. OKC has nice urban areas too and larger more-developed downtown. Tulsa has nothing like Bricktown, but has nicer high-end urban districts thanks to rich folk sticking around since the homes were first built (Cherry Street, Utica Square, Maple Ridge/Brookside). Compare the Tulsa Arts District to Bricktown to see the difference between Tulsa and OKC overall (Generic/Corporate/kitschy/Family-friendly/suburban vs Unique/Organic/Improvised/Artsy/local). Both are nice and I know OKC has plenty of more artsy areas like Paseo, but so does Tulsa (Pearl and Whittier Districts). I've been to OKC a number of times throughout my life. Cool to see the changes, but also glad that Tulsa is holding its own now so that there's not as much of a need to go visit OKC.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: BKDotCom on October 10, 2018, 02:36:05 pm
Quote
IKEA product placement specialist, has informed The Daily in an email that though IKEA is always looking for new opportunities to expand, they have not announced plans for a store in Oklahoma City and that it is "purely speculation."

That sounds less like a denial and more like a  "we haven't announced anything yet".

the quote is definitely not a "IKEA has no plans to enter the OKC market" level refutation

and "product placement specialist"??


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 10, 2018, 06:01:38 pm
Thanks for sharing that! Didn't realize there was a board about Tulsa developments over there. Good to see that some in OKC are informed about Tulsa developments. There was a lot of chatter about how much better and more advanced OKC is when the "Ikea to OKC" rumor started (i.e: https://old.reddit.com/r/oklahoma/comments/9lcx5e/ikea_considering_oklahoma_city/e765878/ (https://old.reddit.com/r/oklahoma/comments/9lcx5e/ikea_considering_oklahoma_city/e765878/)) and seems like most in OKC don't understand what all is going on in Tulsa (We had CostCo yeard before OKC is getting one, Tulsa has an Urban Outfitters, had uber/lyft first and has a Trader Joe's. The recently completed Gathering Place is the best most-expensive city park in the United States.).

Tulsa was behind in the urban revival it was late to add taxes to pay for improvements and also because most of Tulsa's midtown areas (Like Maple Ridge, Brookside, Florence Park, Yorktown, Utica Square, Cherry Street, Ranch Acres, Bryan Mahr, etc) were thriving throughout its history so there was nothing to renew. OKC's urban core was pretty much gutted economically for several decades so it had nowhere to go but up with ample cheap land/houses for developers. Commercial/Industrial land in the core of Tulsa remained pretty pricey and industry continued pretty thoroughly in a lot of the run down neighborhoods (although housing in a few inner-city neighborhoods got really cheap for a while). Now its especially tough to buy anything except at the "developer price".

OKC was smart getting a head start in urban development but Tulsa has definitely caught up with better more complete urban districts that are surrounded by very nice housing. OKC has nice urban areas too and larger more-developed downtown. Tulsa has nothing like Bricktown, but has nicer high-end urban districts thanks to rich folk sticking around since the homes were first built (Cherry Street, Utica Square, Maple Ridge/Brookside). Compare the Tulsa Arts District to Bricktown to see the difference between Tulsa and OKC overall (Generic/Corporate/kitschy/Family-friendly/suburban vs Unique/Organic/Improvised/Artsy/local). Both are nice and I know OKC has plenty of more artsy areas like Paseo, but so does Tulsa (Pearl and Whittier Districts). I've been to OKC a number of times throughout my life. Cool to see the changes, but also glad that Tulsa is holding its own now so that there's not as much of a need to go visit OKC.


Oh so true!  

What results in the success in all of the developments in both our major cities; we become victims of successful progress.  You are spot on about the inexpensive land that laid barren for decades in OKC; development helped to spur more development.

Brighter days are ahead for OKC-TUL; moderate growth does give us ample time to do strategic planning not brought on by hast.  It does give you a chance to re-calibrate.

Tulsa Vision 2025 & OKC MAPS & general obligation bonds are voter approved initiatives that will reap future benefits for both cities.  



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 11, 2018, 12:44:19 am
Costco was actually looking at OKC first.  Also, Lyft and Uber where in OKC first.  Not that it matters, but when you state such false hoods and then compare everything in Tulsa to Bricktown, you look like an idiot not mentioning Midtown OKC, Uptown, Automobile Alley, The Plaza and Western Ave.   I live in Tulsa and spend a lot of time in OKC and you are coming off dumb.   We should be spending more time focusing on population growth, sales tax growth, and attracting large employers like OKC instead of wondering why a larger city may  get an IKEA first.  We worry to much about losing our self perceived cool factor that we forget about the real important things that create a vibrant city.   What will attract sales tax growth, population growth and large employers?   We need to get our head of the sand and work harder to compete with OKC.   Sadly,  We are still pretty far behind.  What would we do with out Mr. Kaiser?  He has single handily been responsible for a significant portion of investment in this city (Guthrie Green, Brady District, Gathering Place and Etc.).  All of us need to do more to make this city where OTHERS want to live.  Who gives a crap about IKEA?  How about a temporary tax for city schools and public transportation?  How about a dedicated funding source for police and fire?  How about funding a new convention center and attracting a convention hotel?  How about a dedicated funding source for our aging zoo?  Think big!


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 11, 2018, 08:02:29 am
Costco was actually looking at OKC first.  Also, Lyft and Uber where in OKC first.  Not that it matters, but when you state such false hoods and then compare everything in Tulsa to Bricktown, you look like an idiot not mentioning Midtown OKC, Uptown, Automobile Alley, The Plaza and Western Ave. 

Who cares if Costco considered OKC first? They built in Tulsa years prior. Uber was in Tulsa first, in early 2014. It came to OKC later in 2014.


I didn't compare "everything" in Tulsa to Bricktown. I compared the largest urban district in each city to each other. I know of those other districts in OKC and I've been to all of them multiple times. I specifically mentioned OKC has plenty of other urban/arts districts. I didn't mention Blue Dome, SOBO, East Village or Deco Districts in Tulsa either.

The residential areas around the core OKC districts aren't quite as nice or filled in as Tulsa's Brookside or Cherry Street. OKC had much more severe white-flight and they didn't maintain the city core as much in earlier decades so it was much more ripe for rebuilding and they have done that pretty well, but plenty of junky houses and empty lots in their core urban areas. Mesta Park is an exception and Midtown had huge improvements the last decade and is really filling in.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: AngieB on October 11, 2018, 08:06:04 am
Costco was actually looking at OKC first.  Also, Lyft and Uber where in OKC first.  Not that it matters, but when you state such false hoods and then compare everything in Tulsa to Bricktown, you look like an idiot not mentioning Midtown OKC, Uptown, Automobile Alley, The Plaza and Western Ave.   I live in Tulsa and spend a lot of time in OKC and you are coming off dumb.   We should be spending more time focusing on population growth, sales tax growth, and attracting large employers like OKC instead of wondering why a larger city may  get an IKEA first.  We worry to much about losing our self perceived cool factor that we forget about the real important things that create a vibrant city.   What will attract sales tax growth, population growth and large employers?   We need to get our head of the sand and work harder to compete with OKC.   Sadly,  We are still pretty far behind.  What would we do with out Mr. Kaiser?  He has single handily been responsible for a significant portion of investment in this city (Guthrie Green, Brady District, Gathering Place and Etc.).  All of us need to do more to make this city where OTHERS want to live.  Who gives a crap about IKEA?  How about a temporary tax for city schools and public transportation?  How about a dedicated funding source for police and fire?  How about funding a new convention center and attracting a convention hotel?  How about a dedicated funding source for our aging zoo?  Think big!

Your first post and you have called a long-time member of the forum an idiot and dumb. Please be more respectful.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 11, 2018, 08:51:34 am
m


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 11, 2018, 09:00:29 am
How about a temporary tax for city schools and public transportation?  How about a dedicated funding source for police and fire?  How about funding a new convention center and attracting a convention hotel?  How about a dedicated funding source for our aging zoo?  Think big!

Some of these items were part of the latest Vision Tulsa sales tax extension.  And the convention center has been expanded and renovated, including a current project to replace the arena.  A convention hotel is planned as part of the Arena District master plan.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 11, 2018, 11:03:22 am
Costco was actually looking at OKC first.  Also, Lyft and Uber where in OKC first.  Not that it matters, but when you state such false hoods and then compare everything in Tulsa to Bricktown, you look like an idiot not mentioning Midtown OKC, Uptown, Automobile Alley, The Plaza and Western Ave.   I live in Tulsa and spend a lot of time in OKC and you are coming off dumb.   We should be spending more time focusing on population growth, sales tax growth, and attracting large employers like OKC instead of wondering why a larger city may  get an IKEA first.  We worry to much about losing our self perceived cool factor that we forget about the real important things that create a vibrant city.   What will attract sales tax growth, population growth and large employers?   We need to get our head of the sand and work harder to compete with OKC.   Sadly,  We are still pretty far behind.  What would we do with out Mr. Kaiser?  He has single handily been responsible for a significant portion of investment in this city (Guthrie Green, Brady District, Gathering Place and Etc.).  All of us need to do more to make this city where OTHERS want to live.  Who gives a crap about IKEA?  How about a temporary tax for city schools and public transportation?  How about a dedicated funding source for police and fire?  How about funding a new convention center and attracting a convention hotel?  How about a dedicated funding source for our aging zoo?  Think big!

Awesome first post.

I’m not buying you live in Tulsa. The ONE post that gets you to register an account is this Ikea thread? And you know nothing about Tulsa? See, two years ago the last Vision Tulsa vote and other recent bond issues have addressed basically every point you bring up.

First, Tulsa schools are not in the physical condition that OKC schools were/are as there have been regular bond issues to address building needs. The last one three years ago was almost a half billion dollar bond issue.
https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/education/tulsa-voters-approve-record-setting-school-bond-package/article_310450cd-146c-58f1-bc07-af723480ef0b.html
https://www.tulsaschools.org/connect-with-us/partner-with-us/bond-status-bids-proposals

I wish the Vision plan had more for public transportation, but it did start a permanent tax for public transit and funds a BRT line along Peoria and a transit hub.
https://ktul.com/news/local/new-bus-rapid-transit-service-coming-to-peoria-avenue

The Vision plan had a very large permanent tax for police and fire, more than $250 million, and adds 225 police and fire personnel
https://www.tulsaworld.com/opinion/editorials/tulsa-world-editorial-vision-tax-working-as-tulsa-police-fire/article_aba6c883-efe2-5411-89cf-7382882fb78a.html

The last Vision plan also included  renovations to the convention center, on top of funds from Vision 2025. With $55 million from Vision the city has started removing the old arena and will be replacing it with new 40,000 square foot ballroom and new three story entrance to the convention center. This work goes with all the Vision 2025 work on the convention center from 10 years ago. Tulsa doesn’t need a “new” convention center. As for a hotel, the convention center already has a convention hotel (The DoubleTree) along with two other onsite hotels (aLoft and Best Western). Those three hotels have 700 rooms and already exist. And plans have been floated THIS WEEK for another larger convention hotel as part of a huge new plan for the area around the arena. It’s been all over the news, and talked about here. Funny how you missed that but got outraged over an IKEA post that is nonsense anyway. There is no IKEA going to either city. 
https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/local/million-overhaul-of-cox-business-center-to-begin-this-week/article_42819c32-1457-59be-8b70-a671d1bf4a0f.html
https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/government/final-public-meeting-on-arena-district-master-plan-set-for/article_bc40eb80-3859-5eb2-bddd-03cb9e2f1e7e.html


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 11, 2018, 03:29:42 pm
Didn’t intended to ruffle feathers.  I had a little Vino last night and went “hard” in the paint.   I am from OKC originally but lived here for 12 years 2001-2013 before my job took me back to OKC in 2013 and I am now back again as of June of this year.   I have read this thread since 2008 and OKC Talk as well but never post.  I do spend a lot of time in OKC and have close friends and family in both towns.  I LOVE both cities very much.   This thread hit me the wrong way as I was just recently speaking about this with some of my Tulsa associates in the film industry and we were having a lively discussion.   

Several of my hipster Tulsa friends were hung up on the  psychological impact of having IKEA in OKC but not Tulsa.  My point was it shouldn’t matter either way.  Both cities should focus on creating a vibrant city where we retain our local talent and ATTRACT others to live here.  My definition of a vibrant city has a lot more to do with the three points I tried to make (sales tax growth, population growth,  and employer attraction/growth) than perception.  I believe we have a long way to go to narrow the gap with OKC in this regard. 

I work in commercial finance across the state and it frustrates me that lots of Tulsans I encounter are caught up with perception.  Both cities are great.  Let’s appreciate them both.   

I apologize TulsaGoldenHurriCAN for insulting you and anyone else.  I will not type and drink the next time.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 11, 2018, 03:35:24 pm
I might also add that Pete at OKC Talk has been highly accurate with his reporting and I believe IKEA is in talks with OKC Regarding the Chisholm Creek location.   However, it is a long way away from abeing a done deal.  Just consider the initial long term talks with Costco back in 2012-2013.   I will also note I have first hand knowledge that IKEA has been sniffing around OKC for several years and prior to the Chisholm Creek site they were looking at an urban site in OKC.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 11, 2018, 06:56:34 pm
I might also add that Pete at OKC Talk has been highly accurate with his reporting and I believe IKEA is in talks with OKC Regarding the Chisholm Creek location.   However, it is a long way away from abeing a done deal.  Just consider the initial long term talks with Costco back in 2012-2013.   I will also note I have first hand knowledge that IKEA has been sniffing around OKC for several years and prior to the Chisholm Creek site they were looking at an urban site in OKC.

Sounds like Chisholm Creek might be wanting to try to create interest in Ikea, but it certainly doesn't seem like Ikea is interested in the United States, much less OKC. Ikea’s new US stores announced for 2018:

Dublin, CA (Bay Area) Would be a third store in a metro area of 8.6 million - Not canceled but also not started
Ft Worth - Would be a third store in a metro of 7.4 million - Canceled
Glendale, AZ (Phoenix) Would be a second store in a metro of 4.5 million - Canceled
Cleveland - Would be first store in a metro of 3.5 million - Canceled
Broomfield, CO (Denver) Would be a second store in a metro of 3.3 million - Indefinitely delayed
Cary, ND (Raleigh-Durham) Would be first store in a metro of 2.1 million - Canceled
Nashville - Would be first store in a metro of 1.9 million - Canceled


The ONLY store they seem to be moving forward with in the US that wasn’t already under construction as of May 2018 is the East Bay store in Dublin, CA, which has also not started construction.

They have nothing else announced for the US. At all. They list no US stores on their website as coming soon.

Ikea’s corporate newsfeed for new US locations before 2018 posted regularly multiple times a month. They have two posts in all of 2018 and nothing since May.

https://www.ikea.com/us/en/about_ikea/newsroom/expansion_plans?pageNumber=2

Color me skeptical because Ikea certainly doesn’t seem to be expanding the United States. They have canceled stores in much larger, wealthier and faster growing metros than Tulsa (1.1 million) or OKC (1.4 million).


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 11, 2018, 08:09:57 pm
Why do I get the feeling that this is gonna be the same kind of "all hype, no substance" thing as when Krispy Kreme came to town??   

I looked at all the pics of the Renton, WA store...I guess I don't appreciate "just stuff" as much as many do.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 11, 2018, 08:11:15 pm
I might also add that Pete at OKC Talk has been highly accurate with his reporting and I believe IKEA is in talks with OKC Regarding the Chisholm Creek location.   However, it is a long way away from abeing a done deal.  Just consider the initial long term talks with Costco back in 2012-2013.   I will also note I have first hand knowledge that IKEA has been sniffing around OKC for several years and prior to the Chisholm Creek site they were looking at an urban site in OKC.


I may have to go to OKC Talk...they have "Eric"...  seems like a person in search of enlightenment.

And GaryOKC6... flat out lying, so I know he is a Trump Minion.   Saying his 401k has nearly doubled since Trump took office.   If it was strictly Amazon or Tesla, maybe yeah.  But no 401 is gonna have just those two options.  

Could be interesting as much time as I spend there.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 11, 2018, 09:09:07 pm

I may have to go to OKC Talk...they have "Eric"...  seems like a person in search of enlightenment.

And GaryOKC6... flat out lying, so I know he is a Trump Minion.   Saying his 401k has nearly doubled since Trump took office.   If it was strictly Amazon or Tesla, maybe yeah.  But no 401 is gonna have just those two options.  

Could be interesting as much time as I spend there.



Heironymouspasparagus you know "Eric" well, he's known as "erfalf" over here.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 12, 2018, 09:11:10 am
Swake - Not to be a d**k, but you are incorrect.  Uber was in OKC first.

https://www.tulsaworld.com/business/technology/app-based-ride-service-uber-arrives-in-tulsa/article_40026e93-3a86-5928-8320-7611e4a06771.html

https://newsok.com/article/3895606/get-app-y-new-uber-car-service-arrives-in-oklahoma-city


Lyft launches at same time in both cities.

https://techcrunch.com/2014/04/24/lyft-24-new-cities/

https://newsok.com/article/4568534/lyft-joins-uber-in-oklahoma-city-as-officials-consider-regulating-ridesharing


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 12, 2018, 09:15:16 am
TIME OUT:

From Mayor Holt on Twitter:   https://twitter.com/davidfholt/status/1050408576982880257

https://youtu.be/iEw1E_UtjjE

Welcome your ideas...



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 12, 2018, 09:29:44 am
Swake - Not to be a d**k, but you are incorrect.  Uber was in OKC first.

https://www.tulsaworld.com/business/technology/app-based-ride-service-uber-arrives-in-tulsa/article_40026e93-3a86-5928-8320-7611e4a06771.html

https://newsok.com/article/3895606/get-app-y-new-uber-car-service-arrives-in-oklahoma-city


Lyft launches at same time in both cities.

https://techcrunch.com/2014/04/24/lyft-24-new-cities/

https://newsok.com/article/4568534/lyft-joins-uber-in-oklahoma-city-as-officials-consider-regulating-ridesharing

Not to be a "d**k", but when did I mention Uber at all?


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Townsend on October 12, 2018, 10:08:58 am
Not to be a "d**k", but when did I mention Uber at all?

Going forward, can we begin all our posts with "not to be a d**k"?

Rename it "Tulsa-not-to-be-a-d**k-Now"


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 12, 2018, 10:33:03 am
Going forward, can we begin all our posts with "not to be a d**k"?

Rename it "Tulsa-not-to-be-a-d**k-Now"

It's probably about as polite as you can possibly expect in the age of Trump.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 12, 2018, 01:30:31 pm
Swake - Apologies.   It was Hurricane that mentioned Uber.   

For the record, I am a Democrat😀


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 12, 2018, 04:04:09 pm
Heironymouspasparagus you know "Eric" well, he's known as "erfalf" over here.




Ahhhh...  alrighty, then... let the games begin!  Maybe I should get a different name there.  Something a little easier to type in every time I sign on! 



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 12, 2018, 04:04:43 pm
Swake - Apologies.   It was Hurricane that mentioned Uber.   

For the record, I am a Democrat😀



So, not a member of any organized political party, huh??



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 12, 2018, 04:05:53 pm
Going forward, can we begin all our posts with "not to be a d**k"?

Rename it "Tulsa-not-to-be-a-d**k-Now"


Ok, so I need some clarification...if I say that at beginning of posts, can I actually still be one like Trump is/does all the time??



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 17, 2018, 05:22:35 pm
Whether or not the IKEA rumor is dead; we have seen some recent companies/corporations land in midtown--north of DT.  One in particular, Global Payments (Atlanta) cited the Streetcar route and YMCA Parking Garage (pic, bottom left) as reasons for expansion/relocation of its North American HQ to OKC.  

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland072718d.jpg)

They plan to bring 345 - 600+ jobs to the area with an average salary $59,172; some of these jobs will include relocations from Atlanta.  Oklahoma City council did approve $1 million in incentives to support construction.

Don't know the impact of our recent liquor laws or medical marijuana; however some think it's an attitude shift in Oklahoma that will eventually benefit TULSA-OKC.

Payment processor firm could bring more than 600 jobs to planned downtown OKC office:  https://newsok.com/article/5596196/payment-processor-firm-to-bring-more-than-600-jobs-to-planned-downtown-okc-office (https://newsok.com/article/5596196/payment-processor-firm-to-bring-more-than-600-jobs-to-planned-downtown-okc-office)

Heartland headquarters incentives deal advances in Oklahoma City Council:  https://newsok.com/article/5607958/heartland-headquarters-incentives-deal-advances-in-oklahoma-city-council (https://newsok.com/article/5607958/heartland-headquarters-incentives-deal-advances-in-oklahoma-city-council)

OKC:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVc4pgBGO28 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVc4pgBGO28)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 18, 2018, 07:30:50 am
One thing I am very thankful for is our push to get pedestrian friendly/transit friendly development in our core.  Don't always get it as the rules are so lax, but we have been getting a decent amount nonetheless.  Seems more OKC developments in their core don't "get it", but thats just armchair prognosticating.  We may go down to OKC this Saturday to take a gander and see what they are up to down the pike lol.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 18, 2018, 08:27:03 am
One thing I am very thankful for is our push to get pedestrian friendly/transit friendly development in our core.  Don't always get it as the rules are so lax, but we have been getting a decent amount nonetheless.  Seems more OKC developments in their core don't "get it", but thats just armchair prognosticating.  We may go down to OKC this Saturday to take a gander and see what they are up to down the pike lol.


They are about to start their streetcar train service. That's WAY beyond anything we are doing. "Bus Rapid Transit" in a few years doesn't cut it.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 18, 2018, 08:52:23 am
They are about to start their streetcar train service. That's WAY beyond anything we are doing. "Bus Rapid Transit" in a few years doesn't cut it.

Bus Rapid Transit, if done right with set schedules, covered stops and high frequency, can be more effective than a streetcar.  Especially for a long distance inter-city route like Peoria.  That being said I think we should look at what OKC (and Kansas City) have done with a streetcar and see if we can do something similar that connects the downtown districts and also to TU.  I'm in OKC every few months and have been impressed by the new developments that have been spurred along the line. 

Anyways this thread is about IKEA..


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 18, 2018, 10:17:52 am
Bus Rapid Transit will be a plus for Tulsa.  It will be a success.   Hope Tulsa eventually bring its own streetcar system to downtown.  You have a beautiful/clean downtown; the streetcar would cater to tourists; especially convention attendees.  

Oklahoma City Streetcar system will serve 3 areas covering 6.9 miles, Downtown, Midtown (4.9 mile loop) & Bricktown (2.0 mile loop); the 6.9 miles of streetcar link interconnects.  Our biggest snag with the streetcar will be the underground tunnel--Metro Concourse which stretches throughout 20 blocks downtown, it covers 1 mile:  http://downtownokc.com/underground/ (http://downtownokc.com/underground/)

Tour of the OKC MAPS III streetcar route:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YD7cyPMq18s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YD7cyPMq18s)

Oklahoma City 3D Fly-Through  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVgYJoEP36Q (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVgYJoEP36Q)

There are many exciting developments under construction in OKC's new convention district with the 72 acre $131 million DT Scissortail Park, New Convention Center & 605 room Omni Hotel and the 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites by Tulsa developer Andy Pratel has topped off at 5 stories next to the convention center.  http://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=38017&page=10 (http://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=38017&page=10).

The Convention Center District comprised of $288 million convention center, $40 million 550 space parking garage, $131 million downtown park, $240 million Omni & $80 million Fairfield INN hotels will infuse $860 million into the new district.

MAPS 3 Oklahoma City Streetcar Progress Update – July 2016 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gJKRIt15hU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-gJKRIt15hU)





Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 18, 2018, 10:55:16 am


Oklahoma City's Bricktown District:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: AngieB on October 18, 2018, 12:58:44 pm
Blah, blah, blah, blah, OKC, blah, blah, blah, OKC, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, OKC...  ::)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 18, 2018, 03:05:41 pm
An Atlanta-based technology service company is seeking financial incentives to aid in bringing up to 150 jobs to Oklahoma City.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rural2.jpg)


Rural Sourcing, Inc. currently has 420 employees and is rapidly growing. It has targeted OKC for an expansion office and plans to add 150 new jobs over the next three years.

The average first-year wage is estimated at $68,614, according to documents appearing on the agenda for next Tuesday's Economic Development Trust meeting.

The offices would be located in the Plow Building, a recently restored five-story building at 29 E. Reno Ave. in Bricktown. Formerly abandoned, the Plow was thoroughly renovated by local developer Richard McKown and with this latest deal is approaching full capacity.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rural1.jpg)

Rural Sourcing specializes in domestically outsourced software development and support. In addition to their Atlanta headquarters, the have offices in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Mobile, Alabama; and Jonesboro, Arkansas.

A memo to the trust from city manager Jim Couch indicates the Chamber of Commerce has been working with the company since July and that Rural Sourcing reviewed 50 mid-size cities and considered factors such as access to IT talent, cost of living, quality of life and economic incentives.

It is estimated that the financial impact would be $122.5 million over the first seven years.

The company plans to invest $500,000 in leasehold improvements and $1 million in furniture and equipment over the next three years.

The trust is being asked to approve a resolution that would be the first step in allocating $450,000 in incentives in general obligation limited tax bond proceeds. Ultimately, city council would have to provide final approval.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rural3.jpg)

via OKCTalk:  Tech company to bring 150 jobs to Bricktown - Published on 09-14-2018 10:00 AM


Published: Wednesday, September 19, 2018 By: Steve Lackmeyer Source: NewsOK

Rural Sourcing, a software development company, is set to start hiring for its proposed new location in Bricktown later this year with plans to staff up to 150 people or more after three years.

Tre Sasser, chief financial officer at the Atlanta-based company, said Oklahoma City prevailed over 49 other cities considered for the company's fifth development center.

“I'm incredibly excited by the prospect of coming to Oklahoma City,” Sasser said Tuesday during a presentation to the Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust. “We believe it's the right combination of high-tech talent, low cost of living and quality of life to get us started.”  https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/news/2018/09/19/newsok/rural-sourcing-aims-to-compete-against-world-from-bricktown/ (https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/news/2018/09/19/newsok/rural-sourcing-aims-to-compete-against-world-from-bricktown/)

The company will be on the Oklahoma City Streetcar Bricktown loop west of the Bricktown Ballpark.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 18, 2018, 05:15:41 pm
Blah, blah, blah, blah, OKC, blah, blah, blah, OKC, blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, OKC...  ::)


No kidding...!!   We just opened Gathering Place.  I haven't stopped in yet, but have driven by and it looks impressive.  OKC doesn't have that.  Or anything really like it...


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: AngieB on October 19, 2018, 08:38:42 am

No kidding...!!   We just opened Gathering Place.  I haven't stopped in yet, but have driven by and it looks impressive.  OKC doesn't have that.  Or anything really like it...

Right? They had to *make* a river. IMO, OKC doesn't have anything over Tulsa other than having the Thunder.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: shavethewhales on October 19, 2018, 09:53:59 am
I don't think Laramie is trying to make this into an OKC vs. Tulsa thing. Just showcasing some interesting OKC developments in lieu of this IKEA thing that may or may not happen.

My suggestion: move this thread and rename it OKC Developments.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 19, 2018, 11:10:59 am
I don't think Laramie is trying to make this into an OKC vs. Tulsa thing. Just showcasing some interesting OKC developments in lieu of this IKEA thing that may or may not happen.

My suggestion: move this thread and rename it OKC Developments.

Thank you, savethewhales

Just happy to see both cities showing a lot of progress of late with bright futures ahead.  

Tulsa's Gathering Place is every bit of 1st class, big league and second-to-none among any city park you will see in North America. The Jenks' Aquarium have us rethinking what we can do with our OKC Zoo Aquarium.  Our Zoo is funded by a dedicated 1/8 cent permanent sales tax for capital improvements; they have managed the money well for 28 years ($6-$12 million annually since 1990) with a number of new exhibits--total transformation. OKC Zoo: https://www.okczoo.org/ (https://www.okczoo.org/)

Both cities have MSA that exceed 1 million with urban/metro population growth; most U.S. cities are not seeing a growth in both urban & metro populations.

Tulsa has three 500 room hotels;  all primed for conventions.  OKC demolished a 25 story 600 room historic and vacant Biltmore in 1977.  In 1975, 2 years after we built the Myriad Convention Center we only had one 395 room DT first class hotel; couldn't book conventions because we didn't have the hotel room accommodations.

Those of you who are old enough to remember the 70s-80s decades, Oklahoma City was the pits; undoubtedly the biggest, nastiest, raggediest town in the U.S.  1993 MAPS initiative was our revitalization--it saved our city.   Progress for Oklahoma's two largest cities is great for Oklahoma; it creates competition between both cities--that's great.    

 


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 21, 2018, 05:05:52 pm

No kidding...!!   We just opened Gathering Place.  I haven't stopped in yet, but have driven by and it looks impressive.  OKC doesn't have that.  Or anything really like it...


Hey now we do have a $132 million park currently being built downtown that will connect downtown to the river. It won’t be as nice as the gathering place (that’s what twice the money gets you), but it will still be a nice park and will have the advantage of being located downtown which will help it spur more urban development than the gathering place will. It will also be bordered by the new Omni and Convention Center. Two different types of parks both with their own advantages.

https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/projects/downtown-public-park





Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 21, 2018, 06:13:40 pm
Hey now we do have a $132 million park currently being built downtown that will connect downtown to the river. It won’t be as nice as the gathering place (that’s what twice the money gets you), but it will still be a nice park and will have the advantage of being located downtown which will help it spur more urban development than the gathering place will. It will also be bordered by the new Omni and Convention Center. Two different types of parks both with their own advantages.

https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/projects/downtown-public-park






Yeah...they have some very cool stuff there...but it's still OKC.  Just a flat place on the prairie.  Overall, not even close to Northeast OK in interest, beauty, or quality of life.  (I have spent the majority of my time for the last 11+ years "living" in OKC area.  Oh, yeah - almost forgot - they have North Pole City...that is cooler than any store in Tulsa area!!  Like a very small 'Decorators Warehouse' from Arlington, TX.)



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 21, 2018, 07:14:59 pm

Yeah...they have some very cool stuff there...but it's still OKC.  Just a flat place on the prairie.  Overall, not even close to Northeast OK in interest, beauty, or quality of life.  (I have spent the majority of my time for the last 11+ years "living" in OKC area.  Oh, yeah - almost forgot - they have North Pole City...that is cooler than any store in Tulsa area!!  Like a very small 'Decorators Warehouse' from Arlington, TX.)



That’s your opinion. I’ve lived it both, the quantity of life and amenities are almost identical.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Hoss on October 22, 2018, 06:13:13 am
That’s your opinion. I’ve lived it both, the quantity of life and amenities are almost identical.

We'll agree to disagree then.  I spent every weekend in the OKC metro while I was married (in laws) and while there were things to do, it reminded me of a ghost town.  Spread out way too much.  If I recall, at one point OKC was the largest city in the country.  In regards to land area, not population obviously.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 22, 2018, 07:17:23 am
We'll agree to disagree then.  I spent every weekend in the OKC metro while I was married (in laws) and while there were things to do, it reminded me of a ghost town.  Spread out way too much.  If I recall, at one point OKC was the largest city in the country.  In regards to land area, not population obviously.

Not sure where you were spending your time or when you were spending it here, but I live in downtown OKC and spend most of my time in Tulsa around downtown/midtown. Your experience does not reflect what I’ve seen between both cities. I have noticed that for the most part, people like the city they grew up in more than the other. I’ve also noticed, at least among my friends or people I’ve met in both cities, that Tulsans tend to compare Tulsa to OKC A LOT, often taking shots at OKC when I mention I’m from here or in general conversations, while for the most part people in OKC all but forget that Tulsa exists. I’m obviously not one of those people since I spend a lot of time between the two and enjoy what both have to offer but the inferiority complex or competition that Tulsans seem to have with OKC has always been comical to me. This thread is a good example lol.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 22, 2018, 07:46:57 am

I may have to go to OKC Talk...they have "Eric"...  seems like a person in search of enlightenment.

And GaryOKC6... flat out lying, so I know he is a Trump Minion.   Saying his 401k has nearly doubled since Trump took office.   If it was strictly Amazon or Tesla, maybe yeah.  But no 401 is gonna have just those two options.  

Could be interesting as much time as I spend there.



Your characterization of OKCTalk is interesting lol. Though in seriousness I try to follow Tulsa developments and I wish this site was half of what Pete’s built in OKCTalk. He has threads or articles on every development, restaurant, retail venue, etc in any stage of planning or construction througout OKC. Over the last few years, I’ve seen construction sites in downtown Tulsa and have spent a decent amount of time here trying to figure out what was being built but often have had to look elsewhere. I’ve honestly had better luck getting info from OKCTalk’s Tulsa thread. Even my friends that are involved in TYPros or generally try to follow development in both cities have had similar criticisms. Tulsa has a lot of developments to keep up with now, TulsaNow needs to step up its game!


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 22, 2018, 07:49:03 am
Hey now we do have a $132 million park currently being built downtown that will connect downtown to the river. It won’t be as nice as the gathering place (that’s what twice the money gets you),


That project sounds really cool! The Gathering Place was a $465 million project btw so about triple the investment. A big difference being that it's a bit outside downtown rather than connecting downtown to the river. OKC has done a good job putting nice parks in the downtown, especially with the botanical gardens.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 22, 2018, 07:52:35 am
That’s your opinion. I’ve lived it both, the quantity of life and amenities are almost identical.



So have I.   Yeah, the quantity is probably almost identical.  It's quality and/or ambience' of surrounding area that is dramatically different...



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 22, 2018, 07:55:56 am
That project sounds really cool! The Gathering Place was a $465 million project btw so about triple the investment. A big difference being that it's a bit outside downtown rather than connecting downtown to the river. OKC has done a good job putting nice parks in the downtown, especially with the botanical gardens.

I hope ours ends up even a third as nice as the gathering place. I’ve already been a few times and it’s impressive!

Really wish we had a Kaiser like person dumping money into our projects. Aubrey McClendon was similar for awhile but he couldn’t come close to George Kaiser. Our park was completley privately funded. The rest of the $777 million raised for MAPS was spent on the convention center across the street, white water facility, street car, various trail improvements throughout the city and other projects.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 22, 2018, 08:00:33 am
Your characterization of OKCTalk is interesting lol. Though in seriousness I try to follow Tulsa developments and I wish this site was half of what Pete’s built in OKCTalk. He has threads or articles on every development, restaurant, retail venue, etc in any stage of planning or construction througout OKC. Over the last few years, I’ve seen construction sites in downtown Tulsa and have spent a decent amount of time here trying to figure out what was being built but often have had to look elsewhere. I’ve honestly had better luck getting info from OKCTalk’s Tulsa thread. Even my friends that are involved in TYPros or generally try to follow development in both cities have had similar criticisms. Tulsa has a lot of developments to keep up with now, TulsaNow needs to step up its game!


I wasn't characterizing OKCTalk.  

Seems like an interesting site, and I said I may well have to sign up to contribute there, too.  Am interested in seeing what Pete is up to.  Wonder if he will approve me to join.??

I WAS specifically talking about two participants there.  Different thing from OKCTalk...

TulsaNow does need to upgrade in at least one area - this forum in particular - it doesn't have https: security.  I don't know anything about the running of this show, but get the feel that it is volunteers with limited budget and IT support...??  Nice little place to come visit.




Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 22, 2018, 08:02:40 am


So have I.   Yeah, the quantity is probably almost identical.  It's quality and/or ambience' of surrounding area that is dramatically different...



Yes Tulsa has slightly more topography and i agree that overall its prettier but it’s not like you’re living in Yellowstone or something. The nice historic neighborhoods (heritage hills, Mesta Park, Crownheights, Edgemere Park, Nichols Hills, etc) all look about the same to me, have big nice old trees and rolling hills just like all of Tulsa’s nice areas. Same for both cities’ nicer suburbs like Norman and Edmond vs Owasso, Jenks, and BA. I would say South Tulsa has a big leg up on the suburban parts of OKC.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 22, 2018, 08:08:32 am
Not sure where you were spending your time or when you were spending it here, but I live in downtown OKC and spend most of my time in Tulsa around downtown/midtown. Your experience does not reflect what I’ve seen between both cities. I have noticed that for the most part, people like the city they grew up in more than the other. I’ve also noticed, at least among my friends or people I’ve met in both cities, that Tulsans tend to compare Tulsa to OKC A LOT, often taking shots at OKC when I mention I’m from here or in general conversations, while for the most part people in OKC all but forget that Tulsa exists. I’m obviously not one of those people since I spend a lot of time between the two and enjoy what both have to offer but the inferiority complex or competition that Tulsans seem to have with OKC has always been comical to me. This thread is a good example lol.

Oh, the old "I don't even think of you at all" quip... what a burn!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOSdRMSG_k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOSdRMSG_k)

That doesn't seem to be true at all. I know plenty of people who moved to Tulsa from OKC and vice versa. Most people make it back to where they were born regardless, but anyone in OKC who says they don't know of the only other large metro in the state is not well educated and/or terribly untraveled. It's like comparing Dallas to Fort Worth or San Antonio vs Austin. It would be weird to live in one and not think of the other or have any opinion. Anyone who knows about or has been to Tulsa area know it's far more beautiful than OKC in terms of natural beauty and parks in general and also known for better music and art scene. Tulsans compare what Tulsa has vs NW Arkansas a lot (maybe just as much as OKC) and Missouri and Dallas area and KC. There's plenty of ways Tulsa can be better and plenty of things that make it better than other places.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 22, 2018, 08:13:29 am
Oh, the old "I don't even think of you at all" quip... what a burn!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOSdRMSG_k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlOSdRMSG_k)

That doesn't seem to be true at all. I know plenty of people who moved to Tulsa from OKC and vice versa. Most people make it back to where they were born regardless, but anyone in OKC who says they don't know of the only other large metro in the state is not well educated and/or terribly untraveled. It's like comparing Dallas to Fort Worth or San Antonio vs Austin. It would be weird to live in one and not think of the other or have any opinion. Anyone who knows about or has been to Tulsa area know it's far more beautiful than OKC in terms of natural beauty and parks in general and also known for better music and art scene. Tulsans compare what Tulsa has vs NW Arkansas a lot (maybe just as much as OKC) and Missouri and Dallas area and KC. There's plenty of ways Tulsa can be better and plenty of things that make it better than other places.

That was obviously an exaggeration everyone knows that Tulsa is there but in my experience people in OKC just don’t talk about or compare OKC to Tulsa near as much as people in Tulsa do. Definitely don’t hear people flying in with the type of derogatory comments I hear from people in Tulsa. It’s almost comical how people in Tulsa will make some type of put down comment about OKC the second you introduce yourself as being from OKC. I just haven’t noticed that as much the other way around. Granted those are my experiences vs what I’ve witnessed when Tulsans talk about Tulsa around people from OKC but it is what it is. It just always seems like a competition that one side really cares about while the other side doesn’t. I guess best way to say it is that I haven’t noticed the level of smugness in OKC when comparing the two that I do in Tulsa.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 22, 2018, 08:15:41 am
Yes Tulsa has slightly more topography and i agree that overall its prettier but it’s not like you’re living in Yellowstone or something. The nice historic neighborhoods (heritage hills, Mesta Park, Crownheights, Edgemere Park, Nichols Hills, etc) all look about the same to me, have big nice old trees and rolling hills just like all of Tulsa’s nice areas. Same for both cities’ nicer suburbs like Norman and Edmond vs Owasso, Jenks, and BA. I would say South Tulsa has a big leg up on the suburban parts of OKC.


NE OK...not quite the Yellowstone of OK, but it is the Great Smoky Mtn's of OK.   OKC is the Kansas of Oklahoma...

ALL the Big Lakes (if one is into water based entertainment), scenic drives, cute little novelties - largest totem pole, blue whale, etc.  (Yeah, OKC has a round barn nearby.)  Woolaroc, Tallgrass Prairie, most religious cult headquarters.  Better amusement parks - well until the cult sold it a few weeks ago...

Almost "Portland-esque" in it's ambience'...   JK.!



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 22, 2018, 08:23:20 am
Your characterization of OKCTalk is interesting lol. Though in seriousness I try to follow Tulsa developments and I wish this site was half of what Pete’s built in OKCTalk. He has threads or articles on every development, restaurant, retail venue, etc in any stage of planning or construction througout OKC.

Pete does a good job with OKCTalk, if he created a similar forum for Tulsa I'm sure it would be a hit.  Pete needs to find a Tulsa version of himself to run it though lol.  In the meantime he should take his drone up the turnpike and give us some aerials of the Gathering Place and new developments downtown!


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 22, 2018, 08:33:28 am

I’ve also noticed, at least among my friends or people I’ve met in both cities, that Tulsans tend to compare Tulsa to OKC A LOT, often taking shots at OKC when I mention I’m from here or in general conversations, while for the most part people in OKC all but forget that Tulsa exists. I’m obviously not one of those people since I spend a lot of time between the two and enjoy what both have to offer but the inferiority complex or competition that Tulsans seem to have with OKC has always been comical to me. This thread is a good example lol.



You are sure right about that!!  I have commented on it in the past - Tulsa does seem to have this "little brother" syndrome going on, when in reality, there is nothing here to feel inferior about.!  Compared to OKC or any other city and metro area this size in the middle of the country!  Well, except for maybe some of the politicians we elect.  But then OKC does outdo us on batsh$t crazy on that one - think Sally Kern, etc - but only by a hair!  We got Nathan Dahm and Billy-Bob-Markwayne Mullins in this area.  And Robert Millar leftovers (Elohim City)...







Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 22, 2018, 08:41:46 am
Yes Tulsa has slightly more topography and i agree that overall its prettier but it’s not like you’re living in Yellowstone or something. The nice historic neighborhoods (heritage hills, Mesta Park, Crownheights, Edgemere Park, Nichols Hills, etc) all look about the same to me, have big nice old trees and rolling hills just like all of Tulsa’s nice areas. Same for both cities’ nicer suburbs like Norman and Edmond vs Owasso, Jenks, and BA. I would say South Tulsa has a big leg up on the suburban parts of OKC.

OKC has nicer suburbs overall and white flight was much more dramatic there pushing the money out to the suburbs much more drastically. Tulsa has nice neighborhoods from just south of downtown with a nice large midtown area with a solid stretch of mostly nice neighborhoods all the way to the next Suburb, Bixby/Jenks. That "corridor" has much higher higher education attainment than the rest of Oklahoma. In OKC, the higher educated parts are pushed out to Edmond mostly.

Tulsa: (https://i.redd.it/zzpife58gwrz.png)

OKC: (https://i.redd.it/hv8xijubyorz.png) Notice the massive core from middle/south OKC where bachelor degree rates are 0-9.9%...

You can "see" these maps in action when you drive through those areas and how OKC shifted away from its core more. Tulsa is lucky to have solid continuity between nice neighborhoods with pretty good public school districts and downtown all the way to beyond South Tulsa.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 22, 2018, 11:02:15 am

I wasn't characterizing OKCTalk.  

Seems like an interesting site, and I said I may well have to sign up to contribute there, too.  Am interested in seeing what Pete is up to.  Wonder if he will approve me to join.??

I WAS specifically talking about two participants there.  Different thing from OKCTalk...

TulsaNow does need to upgrade in at least one area - this forum in particular - it doesn't have https: security.  I don't know anything about the running of this show, but get the feel that it is volunteers with limited budget and IT support...??  Nice little place to come visit

He'd approve you?  There are a number of posters from TulsaNow on the OKCTalk forum--all are welcome.  Pete has his share of opposition posters, he respects you and your position if you disagree with his views.

Again, OKCTalk has a special tread devoted to Tulsa.  It helps to know what both cities are doing because much of what affects Oklahoma happens in Tulsa & Oklahoma City.  PhiApha speaks with knowledge, we've had our disagreements; however I've always respected him because he's armed with knowledge--never half cocked.

I applaud 'The Gathering Place,' it's a well planned blue print and investment for Tulsa; a community that supported this project from the generosity of its donors.  George Kaiser loves Tulsa & Oklahoma.  He's one of 7 NBA Thunder ownership, Oklahoma's first major league sport.

Would love to see a coming together of our two largest communities.  We have much to gain working together; learning from each other.  Let's dispense with the bashing & snide remarks; growth, developments & gains are a win-win for Oklahoma.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 22, 2018, 11:10:45 am


Would love to see some form of rapid transit between our cities.  Potential game-changer for development that could be shared 45 miles from each city to the mid point of the Turner Turnpike.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Townsend on October 22, 2018, 11:13:35 am

Would love to see some form of rapid transit between our cities.  Potential game-changer for development that could be shared 45 miles from each city to the mid point of the Turner Turnpike.

That would be exciting but it might be tough to persuade the turnpike authority and the towns in between.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on October 22, 2018, 01:19:45 pm

Would love to see some form of rapid transit between our cities.  Potential game-changer for development that could be shared 45 miles from each city to the mid point of the Turner Turnpike.

Wasn't that the purpose of the Tanger Outlet Mall that was in Stroud? I think I went there twice in 1992/93 and never went back. The prices didn't justify the drive, and I don't remember how well it was doing before the storm leveled it in 1999.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 22, 2018, 02:01:20 pm
Wasn't that the purpose of the Tanger Outlet Mall that was in Stroud? I think I went there twice in 1992/93 and never went back. The prices didn't justify the drive, and I don't remember how well it was doing before the storm leveled it in 1999.

Tanger Outlet Mall did well; the out-of-state owners chose not to rebuild following the May 3, 1999 super tornado.

Oklahoma City built its outlet mall in 2011; 395,000 sq., ft., under roof--twice the size of Tanger.  The quality of items are great for the brands and prices.  Seems to be going great.

Whenever in Texas, I visited the outlet malls in Gainesville & Denton; they don't seem to be as lucrative as they once were; probably on life support as they are more trending toward mixed-use.   The big Grapevine Mall attracted many of the locals from the outlets.

Not so sure malls are the future as mega companies like Amazon & Walmart expand on-line sales with amazing profits.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 22, 2018, 02:34:58 pm
Tanger Outlet Mall did well; the out-of-state owners chose not to rebuild following the May 3, 1999 super tornado.

Oklahoma City built its outlet mall in 2011; 395,000 sq., ft., under roof--twice the size of Tanger.  The quality of items are great for the brands and prices.  Seems to be going great.


Not so sure malls are the future as mega companies like Amazon & Walmart expand on-line sales with amazing profits.

Most outlet items are made-for-outlets. Usually completely separate supply chain from regular brand and usually made to be sold at the exact "discounted prices" you pay.

Surprisingly, Amazon hasn't been very profitable until just this year when they made record $2 billion in 2Q on $51 billion revenue,  but previously were barely making any profit in comparison to the massive revenue. 2 day shipping is expensive and everything is going back into making it the largest retail company on earth (So real profitability is probably yet to be realized).

The end game is when Amazon will have majority control on retail and be able to really start finding their own high-profitability niches and controlling prices in those markets (Sort of like Luxottica did with eye glasses). Then they could be extremely profitable and profits could be in the tens of billions per quarter (in theory). WalMart had just about gotten to that level of profitability in some regards when Amazon and other online retailers pushed the envelope (Walmart was making ~$16B/yr profit on ~$180B market cap). Now Amazon is the big guy (with $874 billion market cap!) and Walmart isn't even that close with a still-ludicrous $284 billion market cap.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 22, 2018, 06:11:32 pm
Agree 100%

Amazon's in a position to profit from the retail market.  I'm of the old school value--it hasn't changed.  My purchases are driven by the senses (taste, sight, touch, smell, and sound); therefore I prefer not to purchase online because of unknown risks.  

Tulsa & Oklahoma City were among the cities to submit bids for Amazon's 2nd HQ.

New Amazon fulfillment center to create 1,500 jobs in Oklahoma, officials say:  https://kfor.com/2018/05/28/new-amazon-fulfillment-center-to-create-1500-jobs-in-oklahoma-officials-say/ (https://kfor.com/2018/05/28/new-amazon-fulfillment-center-to-create-1500-jobs-in-oklahoma-officials-say/)

Quote
The facility is expected to be more than 2.5 million square feet and will be located near the Will Rogers World Airport on the east side of the property between 59th St. and 104th St.

There is an Oklahoma City  Amazon delivery warehouse center at 4401 E Hefner.   OKC will possess two Amazon properties.

Tulsa will have a similar 1,500 job Amazon facility:  https://kfor.com/2018/06/09/amazon-announces-plan-to-open-second-fulfillment-center-in-oklahoma/ (https://kfor.com/2018/06/09/amazon-announces-plan-to-open-second-fulfillment-center-in-oklahoma/)

Those bids submitted for Amazon's 2nd HQ may have paid dividends for many cities throughout the United States.





Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 22, 2018, 07:09:32 pm
Lariat Landing is a 2,000 acre development track on the 8,000 acres where OKC's Will Rogers World Airport (WRWA) is located.  The airport will complete almost $200 million in expansion from 2000 come 2020; increase in passengers (arrivals/departure) with future terminals designed to eventually handle more flights.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazon102018a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazon102018b.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonfull99a.jpg)

Amazon's Fulfillment Center progress; above graphs & pics above via OKCTalk. 
Quote
The footprint of the warehouse will be 640,000 square feet with three upper levels, bringing the total size of the facility to a staggering 2.5 million square feet.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 22, 2018, 10:39:55 pm

Would love to see some form of rapid transit between our cities.  Potential game-changer for development that could be shared 45 miles from each city to the mid point of the Turner Turnpike.


Would love to have a train!   Would be absolute perfection for my travels...


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 23, 2018, 10:16:22 pm

How Amazon’s new Oklahoma City delivery station will impact your future deliveries:  https://kfor.com/2018/10/23/how-amazons-new-oklahoma-city-delivery-station-will-impact-your-future-deliveries/ (https://kfor.com/2018/10/23/how-amazons-new-oklahoma-city-delivery-station-will-impact-your-future-deliveries/)

Quote
Amazon's footprint in Oklahoma City started last year with a sortation facility. Next year, they'll open a fulfillment center in Oklahoma City and one in Tulsa - a complex process.

"Fulfillment center is our first line, and then we do sortation, and then we go to our delivery centers but we get fed not just from the local fulfillment center. We'll be fed from all over the United States," said Deliver Station Manager Paul Munter.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 23, 2018, 10:35:58 pm
That was obviously an exaggeration everyone knows that Tulsa is there but in my experience people in OKC just don’t talk about or compare OKC to Tulsa near as much as people in Tulsa do. Definitely don’t hear people flying in with the type of derogatory comments I hear from people in Tulsa. It’s almost comical how people in Tulsa will make some type of put down comment about OKC the second you introduce yourself as being from OKC. I just haven’t noticed that as much the other way around. Granted those are my experiences vs what I’ve witnessed when Tulsans talk about Tulsa around people from OKC but it is what it is. It just always seems like a competition that one side really cares about while the other side doesn’t. I guess best way to say it is that I haven’t noticed the level of smugness in OKC when comparing the two that I do in Tulsa.

I think some of that is, well if your on the "good side" of things then you don't notice what the other persons problems are and why they are complaining, because it doesn't  affect you.  You can go about your business all happy and carefree then wonder why that other guy is complaining, but not really care or have to listen.  

Tulsa has often gotten the short side of the stick on many things where as OKC and environs got the good stuff.  When your here you see, feel and remember the effects.  Why would anyone in OKC feel the negative effects of something that hurt Tulsa?  

-OKC, nearby and easy access to large publicly funded Universities.  (Downtown OKC to downtown Norman is the same distance from downtown Tulsa to downtown Broken Arrow)  Year after year after decade after decade, that has an effect.  Positive for OKC, negative for Tulsa.  Also huge funding for Stillwater, which is a difficult commute for someone with a career and or family.   Things are better now, but when I was getting out of high school, the choice was pretty much expensive TU or leave the area. Had many friends back in the day who looked at Tulsa as a possible place to move, but couldn't for they couldn't further their careers for the educational offerings weren't available to do so. The politics (which is located in OKC) have always seemed to work against Tulsa having a live on campus type, publicly funded university nearby. Year after year, decade after decade, even for generations, OKC has had an advantage Tulsa has lacked and fought so hard to fix. Small things add up over time, positively, and negatively.

-I live by the small new OU Tulsa campus at 41st and Yale.  Remember a while back when some funding was "allocated" for some diabetes focused medical/research facilities for Tulsa and OKC.  I remember it because I saw how OKC was so proudly showing off the rendering of the 100 million dollar facility they were getting for their medical park and touting how many jobs it would bring, research grants, federal funding, research spin off, people it would employ, secondary impact to nearby restaurants etc.  Then I saw Tulsa's "fair share" (The Tulsa region has higher incidences of diabetes and thus more need for such a facility.) our "fair share" was 10 million dollars.  We got to look at this meager little add on to an existing building.  

But again, why would anyone from OKC notice that? Feel that? Be upset by that? Why would they even care? It really is perfectly reasonable and understandable that you wouldn't.  

-Oh, then there was the Native American Museum debacle.  In a nutshell...The OKC politicians convinced Tulsa (and I don't know why we fall for this every time) that "If you all help us and vote for this funding and let us have the first batch of money, then you can have some money for yours with the second batch."  We go with it. You get your money. Then when its time to get the money for our museum. Ooops there is a snag, we are going to have to vote again.  We vote yes, the OKC politicians vote no.  We got screwed again.  The people YOU in OKC voted for, screwed us over.  Honestly I blame our politicians for falling for that old ruse again and again, just as much as yours for being a bunch of lying crooks lol.  (The other version is "Oops we did have the money then for us, but now times are tough and there isn't any for Tulsa's turn (roads, infrastructure, etc.).)

-Then of course by having the Capital there you all get all kinds of economic advantages and perks we do not. We send our tax dollars there, you siphon off a bit to pay for people to shuffle paper and then send "some" of what we sent back. (government jobs and buildings in OKC aren't free I suppose) Plus whenever we want to conduct government type things (heck to even start a business) we HAVE to go down to OKC, you don't have to come here. We have to spend money there, to dine, get gas, perhaps stay, pay whatever it is we are going to pay, etc. Thats another small economic advantage you get that we don't.

-Just as a side note, noticed on some of those research facilities and even educational buildings that they had the names of some prominent, wealthy Tulsa donors on them (even saw how wealthy Tulsans help the arts in OKC).  Good to know that we have such giving people in Tulsa, those things help you all a lot.  But we also notice that the balance of philanthropy pretty much goes one way down the turnpike.  Many wealthy OKC people giving to Museums and arts in Tulsa? Schools & Universities? Hospitals and research facilities?  Hmm? Bet you never even thought about it.

- Oh and speaking of buildings, that Capitol building.  Kind of an expensive project. I remember when we were fighting to keep the historic tax credit thing alive to help us begin to fix up some of the great old buildings in our downtown like the art deco Tulsa Club.  The folks in OKC were threatening to take it away saying it cost to much money.  Besides as your conservative politicians put it, "The state should not be in the business of preserving art/architecture/history." those things aren't important functions for government.  Unless of course its the marbled walls they sit their butts in every day.  It would have been a lot more fiscally conservative to build a new modern office building to house whats in that Capitol building.  But again, its easy to be a strict conservative if its something that doesn't affect you. I guarantee you I will get more benefit from the Tulsa Club building being turned into a beautiful, functioning, historic building than I will benefit from the millions going into the Capitol building.  And in order to get the tax credits you had to prove that the taxes and economics gained by the restoration would be greater than the cost and what would happen if it were not. You have to prove it would "make a return on the investment".  I wish they would have done the same math with the Capitol building. We saved the tax credits this go round, but it was quite a fight.

Anywhoo, could go on and on.  And I know it probably again sounds like "Oh, those people in Tulsa sure do whine a lot." But when your here, you see it in the papers. When your in OKC, you don't see the negative things, don't feel them, don't remember them.  Quite the contrary, you probably don't see the benefits you have for they are not even really benefits to you, but every day, thats the way it is stuff.  But those little "plusses" add up year after year, decade after decade. They can give you the little extra boost and security to say, vote for a nice MAPS program or two as a for instance.  We will go down to OKC, send busloads of people to fight for things we want for "our fair share" and, we see it in the papers, I bet most times you likely don't.  And you certainly don't see it when we lose the fight. And you don't get how it feels when we see you "win something" we were fighting for, and lost.  

And you probably have no idea it even happens.  Except, you do notice, for some odd, unfathomable reason, those Tulsa people sure to pick on OKC a lot. You do notice that and have no idea why? It's so strange isn't it? It's probably for no good reason right? Just something the water perhaps.  


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 24, 2018, 06:27:05 am
The Artist - Wow.  Interesting take that I will put more thought into, but for God’s sake please learn to separate the city of OKC, citizens of OKC and the politicians at the Capital that represent all 77 counties.  Your simple take that it is any person from OKC’s cross to bare for all the wrongs in this state is laughable.   Maybe you should brand each OKC citizen with a scarlet OKC tattoo.  More to come later....


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Hoss on October 24, 2018, 08:20:46 am
The Artist - Wow.  Interesting take that I will put more thought into, but for God’s sake please learn to separate the city of OKC, citizens of OKC and the politicians at the Capital that represent all 77 counties.  Your simple take that it is any person from OKC’s cross to bare for all the wrongs in this state is laughable.   Maybe you should brand each OKC citizen with a scarlet OKC tattoo.  More to come later....

That's not a bad idea, actually...


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 24, 2018, 12:49:23 pm
I think some of that is, well if your on the "good side" of things then you don't notice what the other persons problems are and why they are complaining, because it doesn't  affect you.  You can go about your business all happy and carefree then wonder why that other guy is complaining, but not really care or have to listen.  

Tulsa has often gotten the short side of the stick on many things where as OKC and environs got the good stuff.  When your here you see, feel and remember the effects.  Why would anyone in OKC feel the negative effects of something that hurt Tulsa?  



That makes sense. It is frustrating how OKC does get a lot more of the focus of the state government, but the same can be said of all the ~70 counties and hundreds of cities and towns not included in the OKC metro. Oklahoma government is focused on OKC first and Tulsa 2nd. But then there's dozens of decent sized cities and towns left out even more so, along with the tribes, all neglected behind OKC as well.

It's not just OKC politicians screwing over Tulsa. They're screwing over the entire state. Tulsa has enough of its own accomplishment to make up for that (our average incomes are higher than OKC and we more than hold our own weight compared to similar sized metros) and a more significant record of philanthropy that has been huge in shaping what Tulsa is.

Our city is still the core of our metro with the vast majority of wealth and high income jobs in it. OKC's wealthiest and highest income earners moved to suburbs (See the maps I posted showing OKC's brain drain above), leaving the city-itself in a worse state overall than Tulsa as evidenced by their public schools which are even worse than Tulsa public schools and making private schools more of a "necessity" there for higher income earners, further depleting funds from public schools along with depleting personal wealth.

I wonder if Mick Cornett losing had to do with him being the OKC mayor. The Tulsa metro (which typically decides winner for governor primaries in Oklahoma) completely rejected him and many cited not wanting an OKC-centric governor.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 24, 2018, 02:01:30 pm
I think some of that is, well if your on the "good side" of things then you don't notice what the other persons problems are and why they are complaining, because it doesn't  affect you.  You can go about your business all happy and carefree then wonder why that other guy is complaining, but not really care or have to listen.  

Tulsa has often gotten the short side of the stick on many things where as OKC and environs got the good stuff.  When your here you see, feel and remember the effects.  Why would anyone in OKC feel the negative effects of something that hurt Tulsa?  

-OKC, nearby and easy access to large publicly funded Universities.  (Downtown OKC to downtown Norman is the same distance from downtown Tulsa to downtown Broken Arrow)  Year after year after decade after decade, that has an effect.  Positive for OKC, negative for Tulsa.  Also huge funding for Stillwater, which is a difficult commute for someone with a career and or family.   Things are better now, but when I was getting out of high school, the choice was pretty much expensive TU or leave the area. Had many friends back in the day who looked at Tulsa as a possible place to move, but couldn't for they couldn't further their careers for the educational offerings weren't available to do so. The politics (which is located in OKC) have always seemed to work against Tulsa having a live on campus type, publicly funded university nearby. Year after year, decade after decade, even for generations, OKC has had an advantage Tulsa has lacked and fought so hard to fix. Small things add up over time, positively, and negatively.

-I live by the small new OU Tulsa campus at 41st and Yale.  Remember a while back when some funding was "allocated" for some diabetes focused medical/research facilities for Tulsa and OKC.  I remember it because I saw how OKC was so proudly showing off the rendering of the 100 million dollar facility they were getting for their medical park and touting how many jobs it would bring, research grants, federal funding, research spin off, people it would employ, secondary impact to nearby restaurants etc.  Then I saw Tulsa's "fair share" (The Tulsa region has higher incidences of diabetes and thus more need for such a facility.) our "fair share" was 10 million dollars.  We got to look at this meager little add on to an existing building.  

But again, why would anyone from OKC notice that? Feel that? Be upset by that? Why would they even care? It really is perfectly reasonable and understandable that you wouldn't.  

-Oh, then there was the Native American Museum debacle.  In a nutshell...The OKC politicians convinced Tulsa (and I don't know why we fall for this every time) that "If you all help us and vote for this funding and let us have the first batch of money, then you can have some money for yours with the second batch."  We go with it. You get your money. Then when its time to get the money for our museum. Ooops there is a snag, we are going to have to vote again.  We vote yes, the OKC politicians vote no.  We got screwed again.  The people YOU in OKC voted for, screwed us over.  Honestly I blame our politicians for falling for that old ruse again and again, just as much as yours for being a bunch of lying crooks lol.  (The other version is "Oops we did have the money then for us, but now times are tough and there isn't any for Tulsa's turn (roads, infrastructure, etc.).)

-Then of course by having the Capital there you all get all kinds of economic advantages and perks we do not. We send our tax dollars there, you siphon off a bit to pay for people to shuffle paper and then send "some" of what we sent back. (government jobs and buildings in OKC aren't free I suppose) Plus whenever we want to conduct government type things (heck to even start a business) we HAVE to go down to OKC, you don't have to come here. We have to spend money there, to dine, get gas, perhaps stay, pay whatever it is we are going to pay, etc. Thats another small economic advantage you get that we don't.

-Just as a side note, noticed on some of those research facilities and even educational buildings that they had the names of some prominent, wealthy Tulsa donors on them (even saw how wealthy Tulsans help the arts in OKC).  Good to know that we have such giving people in Tulsa, those things help you all a lot.  But we also notice that the balance of philanthropy pretty much goes one way down the turnpike.  Many wealthy OKC people giving to Museums and arts in Tulsa? Schools & Universities? Hospitals and research facilities?  Hmm? Bet you never even thought about it.

- Oh and speaking of buildings, that Capitol building.  Kind of an expensive project. I remember when we were fighting to keep the historic tax credit thing alive to help us begin to fix up some of the great old buildings in our downtown like the art deco Tulsa Club.  The folks in OKC were threatening to take it away saying it cost to much money.  Besides as your conservative politicians put it, "The state should not be in the business of preserving art/architecture/history." those things aren't important functions for government.  Unless of course its the marbled walls they sit their butts in every day.  It would have been a lot more fiscally conservative to build a new modern office building to house whats in that Capitol building.  But again, its easy to be a strict conservative if its something that doesn't affect you. I guarantee you I will get more benefit from the Tulsa Club building being turned into a beautiful, functioning, historic building than I will benefit from the millions going into the Capitol building.  And in order to get the tax credits you had to prove that the taxes and economics gained by the restoration would be greater than the cost and what would happen if it were not. You have to prove it would "make a return on the investment".  I wish they would have done the same math with the Capitol building. We saved the tax credits this go round, but it was quite a fight.

Anywhoo, could go on and on.  And I know it probably again sounds like "Oh, those people in Tulsa sure do whine a lot." But when your here, you see it in the papers. When your in OKC, you don't see the negative things, don't feel them, don't remember them.  Quite the contrary, you probably don't see the benefits you have for they are not even really benefits to you, but every day, thats the way it is stuff.  But those little "plusses" add up year after year, decade after decade. They can give you the little extra boost and security to say, vote for a nice MAPS program or two as a for instance.  We will go down to OKC, send busloads of people to fight for things we want for "our fair share" and, we see it in the papers, I bet most times you likely don't.  And you certainly don't see it when we lose the fight. And you don't get how it feels when we see you "win something" we were fighting for, and lost.  

And you probably have no idea it even happens.  Except, you do notice, for some odd, unfathomable reason, those Tulsa people sure to pick on OKC a lot. You do notice that and have no idea why? It's so strange isn't it? It's probably for no good reason right? Just something the water perhaps.  

Sounds like a lot of searching for reasons to be upset but all are understandable complaints I guess. Having said that, as someone else mentioned, it sounds like most of your issue is with the state government being here and feeling slighted because of decisions that the state government has made in favor of OKC over Tulsa. You do realize that members from all 77 counties vote on all the government slights you're complaining about, right? It sounds like Tulsa's reps need to do a better job of whipping the votes for funding and projects that benefit the NE part of the state. Though the derogatory comments from Tulsans are never anyone complaining about state funding and most of the time don't come from people that would even seem to know the history behind that issue. It's always petty surface stuff like: "I'm from OKC" "Oh, Tulsa is so much better, OKC sucks." Like Okay, thanks for your opinion that I didn't ask for.

Can't say much about access to public universities. That just is what it is, they were built where they were and that isn't going to change.

On the diabetes center, Harold Hamm donated a large sum of money for that facility and has always been more tied to OKC and Enid than Tulsa. It makes sense that it would be located on the largest and most well established research/medical campus in the state and closer to the University that supports that research center. Tulsa's OU Campus was relatively new back then and is only now starting to come into it's own. Why would they choose to build a large diabetes research center at a fledgling OU campus, 100 plus miles away from the main university over a well established research and university medical campus with multiple hospitals that's 20 minutes from OU in Norman? I could see being upset about the state funding disparity between the two cities (which I've heard mentioned a lot by people in Tulsa but have never actually seen it quantified). but it just doesn't even make sense to be holding an apparent grudge about the main Diabetes Center being located here. Did anyone promise Tulsa that they would get an equal share of the funding for that? How much of the funding came from the state vs. donations?

The Native American Museum has been a nightmare, but again, that location and funding was approved by representative from throughout the state, not just OKC. I don't know if the politicians were to blame for the construction funding debacle or the poor planning but correct me if I'm wrong, didn't the next vote for funding (was it for the Pop Culture Museum?) come during/after the 2008 recession? That sounds more like bad fortune than anyone being lying crooks. At any rate, that museum was a state sponsored mess and the city itself didn't have anything to do with it. It finally does have a path to completion now that the city got more involved and helped create a partnership with the Chickasaw Nation.

On the Tulsa donors, honestly, Tulsa seems to have more large private donors and philanthropists than OKC does (at least currently). You don't see anyone like George Kaiser donating hundreds of millions of dollars to anything here.  Aubrey McClendon did a lot of work to improve the community but that all started dying down when natural gas prices cratered. It's not really surprising that OKC area private donors don't support much up the Turnpike because they don't do that much around OKC.

Yeah I get that the capital is located here, but that's been the case for 108 years now. Yes, to conduct state business, you must come to the state capital. Those are small economic advantages, sure, but there's no OKC boogieman that said "Screw Tulsa, it sucks! Everyone must come here to do everything!" It just is what it is.

On the historic preservation tax credits, I don't think most of the OKLAHOMA CITY representatives were against them. If you haven't noticed, we do a bunch of historic renovations down here as well and just began one of the most expensive historic renovation projects in state history at the First National Center downtown (likely over $200 million). It definitely was not just Tulsa representatives fighting to keep the tax credits, unless that's just what you want to believe https://newsok.com/article/5593267/historic-tax-credits-now-deemed-safe-threats-put-first-national-redevelopment-at-risk (https://newsok.com/article/5593267/historic-tax-credits-now-deemed-safe-threats-put-first-national-redevelopment-at-risk). I remember specifically several OKC representatives on both sides politically fighting to keep the historic tax credits in place because projects like the First National Center, the Skirvin a while ago, and other smaller historic projects wouldn't be viable without them. Here is some info on the First National Renovation. I don't think many outside of OKC are aware of it but the Great Banking Hall is probably one of the coolest public spaces in the state. https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/okc-landmark-first-national-center-faces-a-bright-future/Content?oid=2979744 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/okc-landmark-first-national-center-faces-a-bright-future/Content?oid=2979744)
http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=375-Tour-of-First-National-Center-reveals-more-details-on-redevelopment (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=375-Tour-of-First-National-Center-reveals-more-details-on-redevelopment)
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc032018.jpg)

As far as the capital goes, I think that renovation goes well beyond any ROI metrics. It looks terrible for the state as a whole if its capital building is literally falling down. Sorry it's not in Tulsa, but regardless I know several people involved with that renovation and to say that it needed it badly is a massive understatement.

Of course we realize that we have those advantages. We also have a population size advantage. And I do keep up to a point with the "wins/losses" at the state level due to a few of my friends in Tulsa being involved at the state level though recently I haven't seen much to support the disparity you suggest outside of the Native American Center disaster. I guess your post does do a good job of explaining the inferiority complex that is probably the reason behind most of the comments that I hear from Tulsans though I would guess that most of the people I hear that type of derogatory crap from are mostly unaware of any of the issues you mentioned. Tulsa has a lot of advantages over OKC though like natural beauty, more architecture saved from Urban Renewal, better large private community donors, a better river (that Tulsa's leadership has taken way too long to dam and develop, glad that's finally happening), smaller city area, less white flight and urban decay to claw back from, etc... so it isn't exactly a completely uneven playing field.

At any rate, Tulsa's biggest disadvantage over the last few decades has been self-inflicted through ineffective/poor city leadership paired with an ineffective type of city government and too much division between different parts of Tulsa to get anything passed. You mention the MAPS programs, none of which have passed because of some "extra boost" or "security" provided by the state government help. The original MAPS passed because OKC sucked so much and was in such desperate need of a spark that the citizens voted to pass it. It literally happened because of the lack of security people felt with the situation here and the feeling that we had basically hit rock bottom in 1993 (though little did anyone know at the time that the real rock bottom would come two years later) and desperately needed to do something to right the ship. It had everything to do with effective city leadership paired with a great sales job that made the entire city (or at least 52% of it) believe that the proposed projects would improve the city and it is what has directly led to the prosperity OKC is experiencing now. That success has led to the next three MAPS votes to pass. Those projects are the reason we have the Thunder and have spurred over $7 Billion in private development in the core and elsewhere. The MAPS 3 projects like the new convention center, park, river improvements, streetcar and white water facility will spur more economic development. With effective city leadership, Tulsa could've had the same success with city projects like MAPS and it could've helped Tulsa retain the clear advantages it had over OKC in the 1990s that have all but evaporated. The mayor centric, partisan style of city government (as opposed to City Council/City Manager, non-partisan) has held Tulsa back, especially with the repeated election of people like Dewey Bartlett and Kathy Taylor. It took years to get Vision 2025 passed. The Arkansas River still doesn't have water in it consistently (I know it's finally happening soon) and if Tulsa had dammed it like we did ours through MAPS in the early 2000s, it could've ended up being the Olympic rowing destination that our tiny river has become. Comparing CITY politics between Tulsa and OKC over the last three decades has been mind blowing and the advantage has tilled clearly in OKC's favor. Fortunately it seems like you all finally elected a forward thinking mayor that can actually move the city forward in Bynum.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 24, 2018, 02:09:02 pm
That makes sense. It is frustrating how OKC does get a lot more of the focus of the state government, but the same can be said of all the ~70 counties and hundreds of cities and towns not included in the OKC metro. Oklahoma government is focused on OKC first and Tulsa 2nd. But then there's dozens of decent sized cities and towns left out even more so, along with the tribes, all neglected behind OKC as well.

It's not just OKC politicians screwing over Tulsa. They're screwing over the entire state. Tulsa has enough of its own accomplishment to make up for that (our average incomes are higher than OKC and we more than hold our own weight compared to similar sized metros) and a more significant record of philanthropy that has been huge in shaping what Tulsa is.

Our city is still the core of our metro with the vast majority of wealth and high income jobs in it. OKC's wealthiest and highest income earners moved to suburbs (See the maps I posted showing OKC's brain drain above), leaving the city-itself in a worse state overall than Tulsa as evidenced by their public schools which are even worse than Tulsa public schools and making private schools more of a "necessity" there for higher income earners, further depleting funds from public schools along with depleting personal wealth.

I wonder if Mick Cornett losing had to do with him being the OKC mayor. The Tulsa metro (which typically decides winner for governor primaries in Oklahoma) completely rejected him and many cited not wanting an OKC-centric governor.

I wouldn't single out OKC politicians for screwing over the entire state. There are plenty of other politicians from the Tulsa Metro and elsewhere in the state that vote here and share just as much responsibility.

I think Cornett being the former Mayor of OKC had something to do with him losing support to Stitt in the Tulsa area but the overall loss had everything to do with him being the more moderate choice. Most of Lamb's voters shifted their support to the next most conservative in the group which is Stitt. Given what has happened in OKC while he was the mayor, you'd think his record as the mayor here would've been a great reason to support him (though admittedly, in a city manager style of government, he wasn't anywhere near the only influence on the city's success by design).

Our city is still the core of the metro too as far as high-income jobs are concerned but yes you are correct that a lot of the wealth lives in the suburbs. Having said that, the balance is starting to very slowly shift back to the city. There have also always been pockets of wealth similar to Midtown Tulsa in the core of OKC (Nichols Hills, Crown Heights, Heritage Hills, Edgemere, etc) and similar to South Tulsa on the North and Northwest parts of the city limits.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 24, 2018, 02:11:25 pm


-Oh, then there was the Native American Museum debacle.  In a nutshell...The OKC politicians convinced Tulsa (and I don't know why we fall for this every time) that "If you all help us and vote for this funding and let us have the first batch of money, then you can have some money for yours with the second batch."  We go with it. You get your money. Then when its time to get the money for our museum. Ooops there is a snag, we are going to have to vote again.  We vote yes, the OKC politicians vote no.  We got screwed again.  The people YOU in OKC voted for, screwed us over.  Honestly I blame our politicians for falling for that old ruse again and again, just as much as yours for being a bunch of lying crooks lol.  (The other version is "Oops we did have the money then for us, but now times are tough and there isn't any for Tulsa's turn (roads, infrastructure, etc.).)

The Native American Museum being places in the OKC makes no sense historically and it was put in a place with no tribal jurisdiction. It would make far more sense to put it in tribal territory and closer to the tribes with the largest population. Seems like the ideal spot would be near the intersection of Osage, Creek and Cherokee (i.e. NW of downtown Tulsa) or somewhere like Muskogee or Eufala that are right by the intersection of the 3 largest tribal nations by population.

Maybe that's why they had so much trouble getting donors and having to get the state to bail out the mismanaged and exorbitantly costly project multiple times. I'm guessing Cherokee and Creek nations would pay quite a bit for a Native American Museum which their citizens could actually visit on a regular basis.

BTW, The Native American Museum in DC is a pretty low-effort museum with very few artifacts/exhibits and was a complete let down. They had better temporary display on South American natives than the permanent exhibits for North American tribes!


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: PhiAlpha on October 24, 2018, 02:19:04 pm
The Native American Museum being places in the OKC makes no sense historically and it was put in a place with no tribal jurisdiction. It would make far more sense to put it in tribal territory and closer to the tribes with the largest population. Seems like the ideal spot would be near the intersection of Osage, Creek and Cherokee (i.e. NW of downtown Tulsa) or somewhere like Muskogee or Eufala that are right by the intersection of the 3 largest tribal nations by population.

Maybe that's why they had so much trouble getting donors and having to get the state to bail out the mismanaged and exorbitantly costly project multiple times. I'm guessing Cherokee and Creek nations would pay quite a bit for a Native American Museum which their citizens could actually visit on a regular basis.

BTW, The Native American Museum in DC is a pretty low-effort museum with very few artifacts/exhibits and was a complete let down. They had better temporary display on South American natives than the permanent exhibits for North American tribes!

Yeah I would agree that Tulsa might be a better location for it due to being on actual tribal land. Though the point could also be made that since the OKC area is part of the unassigned lands and thus not part of an area with any specific tribal affiliation but in the center of all the tribes original lands in the state, that it makes more since to put a museum representing all tribes in the state here rather than within a specific tribes jurisdiction or closer to only the tribes on the northeast part of the state.

Also part of the problem with getting other tribe's financial support has been that most of them are building tribe specific museums and cultural centers within their own jurisdictions.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/45/Okterritory.png/1920px-Okterritory.png)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 24, 2018, 03:46:52 pm
The Artist - Wow.  Interesting take that I will put more thought into, but for God’s sake please learn to separate the city of OKC, citizens of OKC and the politicians at the Capital that represent all 77 counties.  Your simple take that it is any person from OKC’s cross to bare for all the wrongs in this state is laughable.   Maybe you should brand each OKC citizen with a scarlet OKC tattoo.  More to come later....



It's more NE Oklahoma - Green Country - vs the 'west' side.  North south line going through Stillwater from KS to I-40 an East West from I-40 intersection to AR.  It is a lot like the 'alliances' seen on 'Big Brother' - the rest of the state DOES 'gang up' on northeast OK and we DO get the short end of the stick way too often.  

Some of this goes back more than half a century, and anyone driving out of Tulsa experiences it - turnpikes.  I-35 is free.  I-40 is free.  That is how they keep support of all the people in the 'west' who go along with this - they also get the benefit of free interstates.

Another old one - old highway 33, now made into 412 east out of Tulsa.  Probably the single deadliest road in this state and one of the last to get straightened and improved.  (Highway 169 north to KS was improved a couple of times over the decades over that road.)  Probably one of the biggest reasons was the business the road brought from northwest AR to Tulsa area - that would give Tulsa area a boost that OKC couldn't get.  So finally after all the overlooks and slights and flat out ignoring what was actually the best thing for the state, 412 got improved.  Into - you guessed it - another turnpike!  Of course.  Literally done only as part of the "deal" to put a 2 lane turnpike from nowhere to nowhere - the Chickasaw turnpike -for some "good ole boy" buddy!  1988 - 1991.








Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on October 24, 2018, 05:08:47 pm


It's more NE Oklahoma - Green Country - vs the 'west' side.  North south line going through Stillwater from KS to I-40 an East West from I-40 intersection to AR.  It is a lot like the 'alliances' seen on 'Big Brother' - the rest of the state DOES 'gang up' on northeast OK and we DO get the short end of the stick way too often.  

Some of this goes back more than half a century, and anyone driving out of Tulsa experiences it - turnpikes.  I-35 is free.  I-40 is free.  That is how they keep support of all the people in the 'west' who go along with this - they also get the benefit of free interstates.

Another old one - old highway 33, now made into 412 east out of Tulsa.  Probably the single deadliest road in this state and one of the last to get straightened and improved.  (Highway 169 north to KS was improved a couple of times over the decades over that road.)  Probably one of the biggest reasons was the business the road brought from northwest AR to Tulsa area - that would give Tulsa area a boost that OKC couldn't get.  So finally after all the overlooks and slights and flat out ignoring what was actually the best thing for the state, 412 got improved.  Into - you guessed it - another turnpike!  Of course.  Literally done only as part of the "deal" to put a 2 lane turnpike from nowhere to nowhere - the Chickasaw turnpike -for some "good ole boy" buddy!  1988 - 1991.








On this we agree. When I moved out of Tulsa in 1998 one of things people asked what was something that I don't miss that and I said "Having to pay to leave and get back into Tulsa on a toll road. No matter where I wanted to go, you have to pay both directions for major roads, while in OKC you can go east or west, or north or south and not have to pay."

And HWY 412 should have been named the "Sam Walton Turnpike". That was the worst stretch of road when it was HWY 33 in Oklahoma even in the daytime.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 24, 2018, 05:41:25 pm
(https://freepressokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/DSC_0070.jpg)

I remember the Great Banking Hall at First National as a teen.  Neat place, where my mother would give me hundreds of dollars to deposit there; then take checks to pay the utilities for water (city), electric (OG&E) and natural gas (ONG).   It was a relief to get that money deposited in the bank.  Use to ride the 1st East 4th bus (old Douglass High School) from 6th & Stonewall to main street downtown.  

She entrusted us with major household responsibilities.  Taught us first & foremost to pay the bills at the beginning of the month.   Use to keep the money bag hidden on me until I entered 1st National and took the escalators to the Great Banking Hall.  Valued experience growing up with this major responsibility.  'Bring back the deposit receipt...'   My favorite reward; you may stop by Rothchilds' to get you some new shoes and H.L. Greens for lunch; Blacks & Hispanics (I'm mixed) were allowed to eat at the counters back then; following 60s desegregation. It made me feel big time.

Wasn't until the 90s that I realize Oklahoma's banking debacles.  First National was taken over by First Interstate (Los Angeles); then by Boatman's (St. Louis).  Continued banking there after mother's death.  Often walked up those escalators after the bank closed.  They had a sign at the top of the escalators, KEEP OUT.  There were always uninvited guests visiting the Great Banking Hall reminiscing about the activities and traffic that had long since passed.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 24, 2018, 05:50:07 pm
On this we agree. When I moved out of Tulsa in 1998 one of things people asked what was something that I don't miss that and I said "Having to pay to leave and get back into Tulsa on a toll road. No matter where I wanted to go, you have to pay both directions for major roads, while in OKC you can go east or west, or north or south and not have to pay."

And HWY 412 should have been named the "Sam Walton Turnpike". That was the worst stretch of road when it was HWY 33 in Oklahoma even in the daytime.

Never could figure out why Tulsa metro was a nest of turnpike toll roads.  Turner, Cimarron, Creek, Will Rogers, Muskogee...

The Turner Turnpike was never meant to be a long standing toll road, it was suppose to pay for itself then become part of the interstate system of highways; however it's the Turnpike Authority's cash cow.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 24, 2018, 06:27:03 pm
On this we agree. When I moved out of Tulsa in 1998 one of things people asked what was something that I don't miss that and I said "Having to pay to leave and get back into Tulsa on a toll road. No matter where I wanted to go, you have to pay both directions for major roads, while in OKC you can go east or west, or north or south and not have to pay."

And HWY 412 should have been named the "Sam Walton Turnpike". That was the worst stretch of road when it was HWY 33 in Oklahoma even in the daytime.


412.
It is the Dan P Holmes Memorial Expressway.  He was a local insurance guy lobbied for years to get that abomination fixed - I remember seeing his commercials a LOT!  The 'west' specifically and carefully waited until after he died - 5 years after - before even considering fixing that mess.  And even then, they had to get their 'token' 2 lane turnpike to nowhere.  33 was worst road in state that depended so much on heavy truck traffic and lots of auto traffic.

OK politics are vile.   Elsewhere, much earlier, I described how the whole "scratch my back, I'll scratch yours..." system works in this state - from the 70's.  But maintained intact today.  Used to be you only got a set of carport plans for your $20,000-30,000 "consulting fee".  Don't know what you get today...  Another tax cut, probably.






Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on October 24, 2018, 09:34:07 pm

412.
It is the Dan P Holmes Memorial Expressway.  He was a local insurance guy lobbied for years to get that abomination fixed - I remember seeing his commercials a LOT!  The 'west' specifically and carefully waited until after he died - 5 years after - before even considering fixing that mess.  And even then, they had to get their 'token' 2 lane turnpike to nowhere.  33 was worst road in state that depended so much on heavy truck traffic and lots of auto traffic.

OK politics are vile.   Elsewhere, much earlier, I described how the whole "scratch my back, I'll scratch yours..." system works in this state - from the 70's.  But maintained intact today.  Used to be you only got a set of carport plans for your $20,000-30,000 "consulting fee".  Don't know what you get today...  Another tax cut, probably.






Thank you, Dan P. Holmes, couldn't remember the name. When I was growing up in Tulsa (1963-1998) there was Will Rogers, Turner, H.E. Bailey, Cimarron, Indian Nations, and Muskogee turnpikes. Five of them surrounded Tulsa. In the 90's, the Dan P. Holmes and Creek Turnpikes were added to NE Oklahoma, and the Kilpatrick was added to OKC. So that made Tulsa 7, OKC 3. So Tulsa, as usual took it in the shorts for turnpike fees while OKC skated along.

This goes back to the whole Tulsa vs. OKC argument, and while I'm not calling people out specifically, I'm not surprised by the arrogance and snobbery that still continues today by people from OKC. Most of it comes off as a backhanded compliment.

I may disagree on things with people from Tulsa, but I'll sit down and have dinner and drinks with them, people at the intersection of I=35 and I-40, probably not.

Just this former Tulsan's opinion.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 25, 2018, 01:18:18 pm
Understand the grave concerns and the detrimental affect the unfair raw deals Tulsa has received from the State of Oklahoma in the past.  

Where do we go forward; how do we right those wrongs?  

I'm a forum guest; viewed many posts with legitimate concerns about how badly Tulsa was treated; admitting it was done to Tulsa time and time again.  

Is it fair to continue to bash OKC for past transgressions or to bash either city; no more fair than to bash Tulsa for the race riots of the 1920s.  How far must we go back; it's time to move forward; our history can't be changed or rectified; there is no remedy.

Talked to my ancestors on the family's black side who were promised 40 acres and a mule--what could we do with 40 acres now other than pay taxes on the land; only God knows what anyone would have need of a mule--it certainly can't produce more mules.  Brood about the past; focus that energy toward the stars.

Let us move on and highlight the developments our cities chart for tomorrow; make Tulsa & OKC a place of promise for our children's future and level the playing field.  


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 25, 2018, 01:59:16 pm
Understand the grave concerns and the detrimental affect the unfair raw deals Tulsa has received from the State of Oklahoma in the past.  

Where do we go forward; how do we right those wrongs?  

I'm a forum guest; viewed many posts with legitimate concerns about how badly Tulsa was treated; admitting it was done to Tulsa time and time again.  

Is it fair to continue to bash OKC for past transgressions or to bash either city; no more fair than to bash Tulsa for the race riots of the 1920s.  How far must we go back; it's time to move forward; our history can't be changed or rectified; there is no remedy.

Talked to my ancestors on the family's black side who were promised 40 acres and a mule--what could we do with 40 acres now other than pay taxes on the land; only God knows what anyone would have need of a mule--it certainly can't produce more mules.  Brood about the past; focus that energy toward the stars.

Let us move on and highlight the developments our cities chart for tomorrow; make Tulsa & OKC a place of promise for our children's future and level the playing field.  


A LOT can be done on much less than 40 acres!!

Have friends who have made livings on 1/2 to 3 acres - and not growing marijuana, either!   Just can't do it with corn, soybeans, wheat, or cattle.   There are a lot of other things can be raised and grown on small plots that can do very well.

And Rogers County taxes on that 40 acres are about $85 a year... not great, but not onerous.  Bare land, AG zoned.  Don't know about Tulsa Cty.




As for how far to go back - good general question, for the entire gamut of human endeavor.  Israelis go back 2,000 years, but expect Palestinians to NOT go back even 80 years.  Right wingers go back to Clinton, but expect lefties not to go back to Bush or even Trump 5 days ago.  And most "originalists" pretty much wallow in the last 240 years - since 1776, but expect the black people and indigenous people to "get over it" - "it" being the last 400+ years...   As always, he who kills the most gets to write the history books.

The main point is - and always has been - to KNOW and UNDERSTAND history so there is at least a chance of doing better.  We, on the other, regress.  And still do pretty much nothing to level the playing field.  No meaningful change will occur until we follow the original plan... Oklahoma and Sequoyah.  Two state solution.  We would have been right at the edge.   Oh, and guess who opposed that to begin with - Republicontins, of course.





Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 25, 2018, 08:38:36 pm
I feel like we have begun "turning the corner" so to speak.  Just hope we keep it up.  I think the "One Voice" initiative in which the Tulsa area unites around a few ideas and pushes and pushes and pushes for them, is a good start.  We just need to keep at it.

I can also like the general Republican "Less government and what government there is, closer to the people." ideals.  If they just really meant that, but at least we can push for it or call them out when they get hypocritical.  I would love to see the state cut taxes and allow cities, counties etc. to have more power to tax or do more with the taxes they already can levy (pay teachers more for instance).

There seems to be a dual path that has emerged in Tulsa.  1. The above, being more organized and weakening/working to get more power from the State. 2. Just forgetting about the State all together and doing our own thing via philanthropy, teaming up with local businesses, local organizations, etc. Just pretend like the State doesn't exist and rock and roll!

I created the gateway for the grand opening of the Gathering Place and was there behind the scenes to open the gates. I thought it was interesting watching the body language of the different dignitaries there that day. Kaiser was enjoying himself and had throngs of smiling people around him. Mary Fallin kind of stood around practically alone looking like she would have rather been anywhere else but there.  One of the greatest city parks in the nation and we were like, "Yea, this is what we did and can do on our own. What are you even doing here?"


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on October 26, 2018, 11:19:28 am


I created the gateway for the grand opening of the Gathering Place and was there behind the scenes to open the gates. I thought it was interesting watching the body language of the different dignitaries there that day. Kaiser was enjoying himself and had throngs of smiling people around him. Mary Fallin kind of stood around practically alone looking like she would have rather been anywhere else but there.  One of the greatest city parks in the nation and we were like, "Yea, this is what we did and can do on our own. What are you even doing here?"

Sounds a bit awkward. I can't imagine a less popular place for her to be!

And don't forget Mary Fallin, the most unpopular governor in the country, represented Oklahoma City's district in the state house before she got into state-wide offices. Might've been why Tulsa nominated a Tulsan over OKC's mayor this time around.


That was an awesome gate! Great job with the design that fit the styling of the park perfectly. I wish it was a permanent gate.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 27, 2018, 12:54:19 pm

IMO the country is getting tired of the current political climate.   The non career inexperienced politicians who come in don't know enough (especially those who have never held any government office) to avoid the early pitfalls.

We are in a time of challenge for National, State & Local governments.   In Mary Fallin's case, she wasn't dealt the best hand; there weren't any choices she made that would have produced good results--choose the lesser of evils.

Our state & cities will rebound; our biggest challenge will be the management of decisions while the economic climate is good.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 27, 2018, 01:09:15 pm
As a former teacher,  AFT union rep, junior college instructor & public school administrator, Oklahoma has always put teacher pay on the back burner.  This isn't a result of the last decade--goes back to the mid 70s.

If you plan to enter the teaching field (many intrinsic rewards) make sure you join an organization (OEA, AFT) with professional liability insurance benefits.   They're many quicksand pits; regardless of your good intentions could backfire and end your career.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 27, 2018, 01:40:45 pm
As a former teacher,  AFT union rep, junior college instructor & public school administrator, Oklahoma has always put teacher pay on the back burner.  This isn't a result of the last decade--goes back to the mid 70s.

If you plan to enter the teaching field (many intrinsic rewards) make sure you join an organization (OEA, AFT) with professional liability insurance benefits.   They're many quicksand pits; regardless of your good intentions could backfire and end your career.

Hostility to education in Oklahoma is a lot older than that. It was written into the state constitution. Remember the only bond issues that require a 60% supermajority are ones for education.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 27, 2018, 04:28:26 pm
Hostility to education in Oklahoma is a lot older than that. It was written into the state constitution. Remember the only bond issues that require a 60% supermajority are ones for education.

Far more of a concern is that some school districts aren't passing millage levies anymore since most of the children in the property areas affected do not have children in the schools.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 27, 2018, 04:49:46 pm
Oklahoma City Streetcar testing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ur9rZwQeIg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ur9rZwQeIg)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 27, 2018, 07:10:32 pm
Oklahoma City Streetcar testing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ur9rZwQeIg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ur9rZwQeIg)

That looks just great, really a home run for OKC. I hope people in Tulsa are very jealous and demand something even better.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 27, 2018, 08:25:06 pm
That looks just great, really a home run for OKC. I hope people in Tulsa are very jealous and demand something even better.

Don't think it's a matter of jealousy. Tulsa has some hilly areas that remind me of San Fransisco, just not sure what areas would benefit from streetcar transit.  Your downtown street foot traffic wasn't destroyed by an underground concourse. 

A Tulsa modern streetcar system would IMHO be a success.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 28, 2018, 03:37:57 pm

Scissortail Park construction Downtown OKC:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBytF3D0KeQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBytF3D0KeQ)

(https://www.thelostogle.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mapspark.jpg) (https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/images/sky-dance-bridge-1508865505.jpg?resize=980:*)
The $132 million downtown park will cover 70+ acres with a lower part of the park that will cross I-40 connected by the Skydance Pedestrian Bridge.

(http://www.sweetpeaces.info/wp-content/uploads/myriad-botanical-gardens-history-myriad-botanical-gardens.jpg)
Myriad Botanical Gardens north of $132 million Scissortail Park & west of the new $288 million convention center.

(https://s21406.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/cvb_16.jpg)
Construction has begun on the  605 room Omni hotel with the convention center also under construction in the background. The $241 million project is a public-private partnership between Omni & the City. Oklahoma City wiil pay $85 million of the construction costs thru bonds paid of in 25 years.

There will be a enormous revitalization of both Oklahoma City & Tulsa over the next 10 years.  OKC passed $800 million in bonds that will replace & repair roads, streets, drainage & bridges over the next 10 years.




Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 28, 2018, 04:20:58 pm
Don't think it's a matter of jealousy. Tulsa has some hilly areas that remind me of San Fransisco, just not sure what areas would benefit from streetcar transit.  Your downtown street foot traffic wasn't destroyed by an underground concourse.  

A Tulsa modern streetcar system would IMHO be a success.

I'm not saying that  jealousy is part of anything yet. I'm hoping that there will be some jealousy once the system is up and running. Jealousy can be a powerful motivator. Tulsa tried for 10 years to get a new arena and voted new arenas down in 97 and 2000. Then The Ford Center opened in 2002 and suddenly Tulsa had to have an even better arena and in 2003 the vote for what became the BOK Center passed with 62% of the vote.

I expect that transit will be similar.

Each city pushes the other to be better, it's a good thing.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 28, 2018, 04:36:06 pm
I'm not saying that  jealousy is part of anything yet. I'm hoping that there will be some jealousy once the system is up and running. Jealousy can be a powerful motivator. Tulsa tried for 10 years to get a new arena and voted new arenas down in 97 and 2000. Then The Ford Center opened in 2002 and suddenly Tulsa had to have an even better arena and in 2003 the vote for what became the BOK Center passed with 62% of the vote.

I expect that transit will be similar.

Each city pushes the other to be better, it's a good thing.

Exactly, and I hope the OKC streetcar is a success and we can find a way to do something similar in Tulsa.  I like Bynum overall but he isn't a transit advocate and we need one in the mayor's office to get a project like that off the ground.

The Gathering Place absolutely had an impact on OKC wanting and now building a comparable urban park (Scissortail).  OKC also didn't have a RiverParks system so they built one basically from scratch and have done some things I wish we could be doing more of with our river (river cruises, dams with locks, boathouses, zipline, river rafting course, etc)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 28, 2018, 04:40:49 pm
Scissortail Park construction Downtown OKC:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBytF3D0KeQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBytF3D0KeQ)

(https://www.thelostogle.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/mapspark.jpg) (https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/images/sky-dance-bridge-1508865505.jpg?resize=980:*)
The $132 million downtown park will cover 70+ acres with a lower part of the park that will cross I-40 connected by the Skydance Pedestrian Bridge.

(http://www.sweetpeaces.info/wp-content/uploads/myriad-botanical-gardens-history-myriad-botanical-gardens.jpg)
Myriad Botanical Gardens north of $132 million Scissortail Park & west of the new $288 million convention center.

(https://s21406.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/cvb_16.jpg)
Construction has begun on the  605 room Omni hotel with the convention center also under construction in the background. The $241 million project is a public-private partnership between Omni & the City. Oklahoma City wiil pay $85 million of the construction costs thru bonds paid of in 25 years.

There will be a enormous revitalization of both Oklahoma City & Tulsa over the next 10 years.  OKC passed $800 million in bonds that will replace & repair roads, streets, drainage & bridges over the next 10 years.




As for the new hotel and convention center. It looks very nice, but that's a ton of money be spent there. It seems to me that there will be a lot of lost opportunity with what that money could have been spent on. I'm not sure that spending huge dollars on convention faculties makes sense outside just a handful of cities.

The big shows go to the major tourist cities and there is zero way that Oklahoma City, or any similar city, can compete with places like Vegas, Orlando, Chicago and San Francisco. It's not an insult, it's just the truth. Even the Dallas-Ft Worth area, an "alpha" world city, struggles to attract conventions and they have 8 million people and one of the world's busiest and best connected airports. I hope it works, but OKC is gambling with a ton of public money.

https://www.dmagazine.com/publications/d-ceo/2017/october/dallas-fort-worth-convention-center-hotel-growth/


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 28, 2018, 05:42:01 pm
Definitely a huge gamble; not to mention the $40 million 865 space parking garage & 500 slots allotted for surface parking will provide 1,365 parking spaces.   Someone forgot to include parking for the convention center & Omni hotel. There will be projected contingency fund money left over from MAP III imitative since sales tax collections are up.

OKC will pay $85 million & Omni will provide $157 million on the hotel.  Omni will have 605 rooms and Tulsa developer Andy Pratel's 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites (under construction) will account for 735 rooms for the new convention center.   Omni did receive some perks; the Cox Convention Center can't be used as the city's primary convention center.

They did plan for expansion of the new convention center & hotel.   Omni will have 1st rights if a hotel is built on the current 4-square block Cox Convention Center (Old Myriad) site.  The Chesapeake Energy Arena can't expand its premium suites & seating; therefore MAP 4 initiative may include a new NBA arena once the Cox CC arena is demolished.

You could see $500 million to $700 million on a new NBA arena; not to mention the $100 million to $300 million the Thunder would be asked to partner with the city for a new venue.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 28, 2018, 06:22:34 pm
You could see $500 million to $700 million on a new NBA arena; not to mention the $100 million to $300 million the Thunder would be asked to partner with the city for a new venue.

Why? What possible benefit could there be to the city to replace the perfectly serviceable and in very good condition newish current arena? I don't buy that idea that you can't add suites and do the Thunder actually make much money on the cheap seats? the only seats that a new arena could give you would be the cheapest ones at the very top, so who cares? For $500 million?

I get the 'Peake isn't the most attractive building, but it's certainly not ugly and it's in good shape and plenty large. Didn't OKC just spend $100 million or something to redo it and make it more attractive? It's ended up kind of an architectural hodgepodge but it's fine, it's quite nice on the inside, isn't that what matters? Madison Square Garden is downright ugly and I don't hear anyone wanting to replace it. I wouldn't think that the best use of that kind of money would be a new arena.

OKC just needs to take the lesson that aesthetics matter, so for the next project stop building cheap and utilitarian the first time. $500 million is an amount that do great things for OKC to make the city better for its residents. Replacing the arena with a showplace so it looks slightly better on a couple of exterior shots during games on TNT moves that needle very little.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on October 28, 2018, 06:48:46 pm
Why? What possible benefit could there be to the city to replace the perfectly serviceable and in very good condition newish current arena? I don't buy that idea that you can't add suites and do the Thunder actually make much money on the cheap seats? the only seats that a new arena could give you would be the cheapest ones at the very top, so who cares? For $500 million?

I get the 'Peake isn't the most attractive building, but it's certainly not ugly and it's in good shape and plenty large. Didn't OKC just spend $100 million or something to redo it and make it more attractive? It's ended up kind of an architectural hodgepodge but it's fine, it's quite nice on the inside, isn't that what matters? Madison Square Garden is downright ugly and I don't hear anyone wanting to replace it. I wouldn't think that the best use of that kind of money would be a new arena.

OKC just needs to take the lesson that aesthetics matter, so for the next project stop building cheap and utilitarian the first time. $500 million is an amount that do great things for OKC to make the city better for its residents. Replacing the arena with a showplace so it looks slightly better on a couple of exterior shots during games on TNT moves that needle very little.

Oklahoma Thunder: "We need a new arena, the facilities inside do not meet the standard of other newer arenas. Build it or we will leave."

This is typical with pro sports. The Arizona Diamondbacks threatened to leave if improvements were not made to their now 20 year old stadium.

Quote
he Arizona Diamondbacks can leave Chase Field and end the team's 20-year residence at the downtown Phoenix stadium as early as 2022, Maricopa County leaders decided Wednesday.

The county Board of Supervisors passed the agreement 4-1 a week after making the deal public, ending a longstanding lawsuit. It allows the team to immediately start looking for another home in exchange for dropping its demand for the county to pay up to $187 million in stadium upgrades.

Under the agreement, if the Diamondbacks found a new location in Maricopa County, the team could leave Chase Field without penalty in 2022, five years earlier than the team's current contract.

A new stadium built on tribal land, an idea that has been rumored, would have to charge the same taxes as currently charged at Chase Field, according to the agreement.

If the Diamondbacks left Arizona after 2022, the team would have to pay penalties of between $5 million and $25 million.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2018/05/09/diamondbacks-allowed-seek-alternatives-chase-field/597057002/ (https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/2018/05/09/diamondbacks-allowed-seek-alternatives-chase-field/597057002/)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 28, 2018, 08:05:13 pm
Per the streetcar and such. 

I think the most important thing is creating pedestrian lively, transit/cycle friendly areas.   You could create a super wonderful core without any streetcars.  You can create some wonderfully attractive, lively and walkable areas that would allow you to have everything you need within easy walking/biking distance.  Throw in some busses and you can be great.  Throw in Uber and cycling and you got it.  I have been to other cities around the world that have areas larger than our downtown and mid-town that don't have streetcars or subways in them but (have them nearby to other parts of the city or to other cities) are fantastic, classic pedestrian and transit centric cities/areas. 

We either need to focus on zoning and or educating (educating our population/developers, architects, people at city hall, etc.) on good urban design and make that our development religion.
I think this is already an area where we are doing better than OKC (mostly because we have a decent amount of people that "get it") and if we keep up heading in that direction, someday all those little "small pieces" will mesh together into something really great.

I used to love the idea of a streetcar or trolley but now I have gotten to the point where I can see we don't really need that. From one end of downtown to another is an easy walk (or scooter lol) so no need for a trolley there really.  We get people all the time into DECOPOLIS in the heart of downtown from Europe and when I tell them about Cherry Street for instance and how far it is they are like "Oh, no problem, we will just walk there."  And like I said, I have now traveled enough to see that from Downtown to Brookside to Cherry Street and Utica Square, TU, etc. all of that is so close together and if developed right we can really connect them better as well. 


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on October 28, 2018, 09:06:29 pm
Per the streetcar and such. 

I think the most important thing is creating pedestrian lively, transit/cycle friendly areas.   You could create a super wonderful core without any streetcars.  You can create some wonderfully attractive, lively and walkable areas that would allow you to have everything you need within easy walking/biking distance.  Throw in some busses and you can be great.  Throw in Uber and cycling and you got it.  I have been to other cities around the world that have areas larger than our downtown and mid-town that don't have streetcars or subways in them but (have them nearby to other parts of the city or to other cities) are fantastic, classic pedestrian and transit centric cities/areas. 

We either need to focus on zoning and or educating (educating our population/developers, architects, people at city hall, etc.) on good urban design and make that our development religion.
I think this is already an area where we are doing better than OKC (mostly because we have a decent amount of people that "get it") and if we keep up heading in that direction, someday all those little "small pieces" will mesh together into something really great.

I used to love the idea of a streetcar or trolley but now I have gotten to the point where I can see we don't really need that. From one end of downtown to another is an easy walk (or scooter lol) so no need for a trolley there really.  We get people all the time into DECOPOLIS in the heart of downtown from Europe and when I tell them about Cherry Street for instance and how far it is they are like "Oh, no problem, we will just walk there."  And like I said, I have now traveled enough to see that from Downtown to Brookside to Cherry Street and Utica Square, TU, etc. all of that is so close together and if developed right we can really connect them better as well. 

The thing about rail is it creates denser development. When planning a new rail system you need to mix between connecting existing places to create demand and then traveling past empty land for development. Rail through its very presence encourages dense infill. Oklahoma City is doing a good job of this. I would traffic calm Cheyenne and 4th, remove three lanes of car traffic from each for dedicated rail and run it north to Pine, south to 15th and east to TU and west across the river to the OSU Health Sciences Center.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 28, 2018, 09:50:08 pm
SXSW - OKC has planned the park since the 2005 “Core to Shore” feasibility study.  The park was fully conceptulized in 2007 and placed on the Maps 3 ballot in fall of 2009.  The Gathering Place had  ABSOLUTELY ZERO to do with the planning of this park.  The MAPS process dictates the money must be collected prior to the project starting and the park was always intended to start in 2018 with completion of phase 1 in 2019 and phase 2 in 2020.  The Gathering Place was announced in 2012.

https://okcommerce.gov/newpioneer/oklahomas-metro-areas-adding-quality-of-life-amenities/

Lots of misinformation on this forum.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 28, 2018, 09:59:02 pm
Laramie-  You should know better as you frequent OKC Talk.  There is absolutely zero chance of a arena for the Thunder being included in the MAPS 4 initiative.  The Peake is very nice on the interior.  Also,  the Thunder, Chamber and Council have not even mentioned it. 

Expect MAPS 4 to include a new arena in the fair grounds to replace the existing arena and extensions for the street car, regional transit and public education.

More misinformation


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 28, 2018, 10:22:28 pm
SXSW - OKC has planned the park since the 2005 “Core to Shore” feasibility study.  The park was fully conceptulized in 2007 and placed on the Maps 3 ballot in fall of 2009.  The Gathering Place had  ABSOLUTELY ZERO to do with the planning of this park.  The MAPS process dictates the money must be collected prior to the project starting and the park was always intended to start in 2018 with completion of phase 1 in 2019 and phase 2 in 2020.  The Gathering Place was announced in 2012.

https://okcommerce.gov/newpioneer/oklahomas-metro-areas-adding-quality-of-life-amenities/

Lots of misinformation on this forum.

Maybe not but the design for Scissortail Park wasn’t finalized until 2013.  And there was this article in the Daily Oklahoman lamenting how OKC’s park would be nowhere near as nice as the Gathering Place: https://newsok.com/article/3924209/who-is-excited-about-the-future-core-to-shore-park (https://newsok.com/article/3924209/who-is-excited-about-the-future-core-to-shore-park)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 28, 2018, 10:31:12 pm
Again, the park was being planned and conceptualized as early as 2005.  OKC can lament all they want but that is what you get when you spend 132 million versus 465 million.  The Gathering Place had absolutely ZERO to do with Scissortail Parks design or planning.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 28, 2018, 10:42:08 pm
I believe the MAPS park serves a completely different purpose than the Gathering Place.  The MAPS park will not be as highly programmed as The Gathering Place.   The MAPS park is intended to spur more development around the park ala Central Park in NYC.  The key will be the “Strawberry Fields” development to the west of the park and future development in and around the lower section of the park.  Strawberry Fields has already accumulated over 50 million worth of property to the west of the park and are planning a massive mixed use development.  Which is where IKEA was originally sniffing around.  Also, there has been a substantial amount of land acquisition around the lower section of the park.  Expect a lot of infill with dense development in the next 10-15 years.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Red Arrow on October 28, 2018, 10:52:13 pm
Per the streetcar and such. 
We get people all the time into DECOPOLIS in the heart of downtown from Europe and when I tell them about Cherry Street for instance and how far it is they are like "Oh, no problem, we will just walk there."  

Americans don't walk.  I think a downtown circulator will be necessary for OKC to Tulsa rail success regardless of whether the circulator is rail or rubber tires. I would like (real) trolleys or light rail to connect the various hot spots in Tulsa but it's beyond my capability to predict if it would be a financial success. Maybe we just need to to it as a social service.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on October 28, 2018, 10:55:11 pm
The MAPS park is intended to attract and spur more development that will ultimately add more residents to the core.  OKC has a lot of neglected property in the core ripe for redevelopment.  They are doing a good job with redevelopment and infill but the market has to catch up to accelerate the growth.  Inner city schools are still a huge impediment for many to relocate in the core and that fact has kept for sale residential development from exploding.  However, this park and additional public investment will soon accelerate the pace of redevelopment.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 29, 2018, 09:31:07 am
The streetcars were among our visions with MAPS I; we didn't get the federal grant needed to help plan the 1st streetcar; Salt Lake City got that money for their streetcar roll out for their winter Olympic games.

We went with the Vintage Rubber bus tire trolleys for downtown.  They were unpopular; we were hyped for the streetcar which had we gotten--expansion talk would be the topic of conversation now.  Also who knows, maybe we weren't ready for the streetcar and it would have failed.  Will admit that OKC officials have learned from early MAPS 1, 2 and Hoops initiatives.

OKC is a victim of its own success.  The popularity of future MAPS initiatives are being questioned.  Instead of having multiple projects on MAPS for which the initiative became so popular because most voted yes because they had a project they liked on the ballot, we are now IMHO seeing people who don't want certain items on there--they are threatening to vote no.  Might be just a few disgruntled voters.

IMO, I still say Tulsa is ripe for a streetcar.  Light rail tracks now run $13 million or more per linear mile--it's not going to get any cheaper in price.  I sense some posters don't want a streetcar because OKC has one.  The streetcar will be a great item for downtown transit.  Everyone knows how difficult it is to get around downtown once you park.  Tulsa could use a streetcar; build one for Tulsa--not because you want OKC to be envious.   OKC didn't have Tulsa in mind when we voted for MAPS in the 90s.  We saw a big old raggedy, ugly town getting uglier by the degrees--losing tons of young professionals to Texas along with Fortune 500/1000 companies.  We have a lot to do in OKC. It's a balancing act between needs & some wants like the streetcar which many here consider more of a novelty item.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on October 29, 2018, 10:09:00 am
The streetcars were among our visions with MAPS I; we didn't get the federal grant needed to help plan the 1st streetcar; Salt Lake City got that money for their streetcar roll out for their winter Olympic games.

We went with the Vintage Rubber bus tire trolleys for downtown.  They were unpopular; we were hyped for the streetcar which had we gotten--expansion talk would be the topic of conversation now.  Also who knows, maybe we weren't ready for the streetcar and it would have failed.  Will admit that OKC officials have learned from early MAPS 1, 2 and Hoops initiatives.

OKC is a victim of its own success.  The popularity of future MAPS initiatives are being questioned.  Instead of having multiple projects on MAPS for which the initiative became so popular because most voted yes because they had a project they liked on the ballot, we are now IMHO seeing people who don't want certain items on there--they are threatening to vote no.  Might be just a few disgruntled voters.

IMO, I still say Tulsa is ripe for a streetcar.  Light rail tracks now run $13 million or more per linear mile--it's not going to get any cheaper in price.  I sense some posters don't want a streetcar because OKC has one.  The streetcar will be a great item for downtown transit.  Everyone knows how difficult it is to get around downtown once you park.  Tulsa could use a streetcar; build one for Tulsa--not because you want OKC to be envious.   OKC didn't have Tulsa in mind when we voted for MAPS in the 90s.  We saw a big old raggedy, ugly town getting uglier by the degrees--losing tons of young professionals to Texas along with Fortune 500/1000 companies.  We have a lot to do in OKC. It's a balancing act between needs & some wants like the streetcar which many here consider more of a novelty item.

When the Boulder Ave. bridge was rebuilt in 2013 it was designed for future fixed-rail streetcars which would be a major additional cost after-the-fact.  I imagine city leaders want to see how the OKC streetcar does and use that as a case study to plan a  downtown Tulsa circulator.  If you connected the Arts District to Blue Dome to the Arena District (Brady/Archer couplet, Detroit/Cincinnati couplet, 3rd/4th couplet and Boulder) you would have about a 2 mile system so ~$30 million for what would could eventually be extended south to Riverview/Cherry Street/Gathering Place and east to TU along a revitalized 11th St/Rt 66.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 29, 2018, 01:54:05 pm
OKC streetcars cost $5 million each, our contractor was Brookville, PA.  Think we have six streetcars (2 each, Redbud, Bermuda Green & Clear Sky Blue) for a 6 plus miles of track that covers Downtown-Midtown 4.9 miles and the 2 mile Bricktown loop.  Expensive and risky investment for a streetcar system in the core.

Oklahoma City Streetcar:  https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/projects/modern-streetcar-transit (https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/projects/modern-streetcar-transit)

We anticipate a successful a rollout. Tentative costs to ride the cars will be  Measures will address concerns to deal with vagrants who board the streetcars as with the buses who use them as an all day ride & shelter.

Budget: $131 million
     
     Maintenance & storage facility:  $5.4 million
     6.9 miles tracks $57.2 million
     6 streetcars $30 million

IIRC the OKC streetcar system can be converted to run off-wire.

Tulsa could probably start up with a system that covers 4 plus miles; your districts are more closer than OKC's.  Would estimate initial cost to be $80 million - $100 million.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on October 29, 2018, 08:48:47 pm
Interesting discussion yesterday with a friend who works in the medical equipment industry - Varian.  I have been "jawboning" two of their people I know for quite a while now to look at NE Oklahoma for a possible location to move manufacturing from high priced Bay Area CA.  Have gone through the entire list of pros/cons repeatedly with both, from technically trained workforce to lower cost of just about everything.  The type of places that might be considered would be Las Vegas.  Denver.  Atlanta.  Orlando.  Dallas/Ft Worth.  Not Oklahoma. 

And yesterday was the first time we have finally gotten to the true core of the matter - why they and other 'high value' equipment manufacturers will never move to Oklahoma.  I was literally told there is 'no draw there' - neither in OKC nor Tulsa areas.  By that, there is no high-end tourist type 'attraction' that would get their clients/customers interested in visiting the place for training, factory visits, etc.  Or even to get people to move here to work, if there were specific jobs that needed particular people.   I mentioned casinos but the counter was that Las Vegas has casinos....

If one of us gets an IKEA, that may all change - we might have a shot.!!


By the way, that is also why Amazon would never come here, too!



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 29, 2018, 08:51:06 pm
The streetcars were among our visions with MAPS I; we didn't get the federal grant needed to help plan the 1st streetcar; Salt Lake City got that money for their streetcar roll out for their winter Olympic games.

We went with the Vintage Rubber bus tire trolleys for downtown.  They were unpopular; we were hyped for the streetcar which had we gotten--expansion talk would be the topic of conversation now.  Also who knows, maybe we weren't ready for the streetcar and it would have failed.  Will admit that OKC officials have learned from early MAPS 1, 2 and Hoops initiatives.

OKC is a victim of its own success.  The popularity of future MAPS initiatives are being questioned.  Instead of having multiple projects on MAPS for which the initiative became so popular because most voted yes because they had a project they liked on the ballot, we are now IMHO seeing people who don't want certain items on there--they are threatening to vote no.  Might be just a few disgruntled voters.

IMO, I still say Tulsa is ripe for a streetcar.  Light rail tracks now run $13 million or more per linear mile--it's not going to get any cheaper in price.  I sense some posters don't want a streetcar because OKC has one.  The streetcar will be a great item for downtown transit.  Everyone knows how difficult it is to get around downtown once you park.  Tulsa could use a streetcar; build one for Tulsa--not because you want OKC to be envious.   OKC didn't have Tulsa in mind when we voted for MAPS in the 90s.  We saw a big old raggedy, ugly town getting uglier by the degrees--losing tons of young professionals to Texas along with Fortune 500/1000 companies.  We have a lot to do in OKC. It's a balancing act between needs & some wants like the streetcar which many here consider more of a novelty item.



I don't know who this "Everyone knows how difficult it is to get around downtown once you park." people are. Most people I know or have ever heard talk about downtown never mention that.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 29, 2018, 08:55:41 pm
Americans don't walk.  I think a downtown circulator will be necessary for OKC to Tulsa rail success regardless of whether the circulator is rail or rubber tires. I would like (real) trolleys or light rail to connect the various hot spots in Tulsa but it's beyond my capability to predict if it would be a financial success. Maybe we just need to to it as a social service.



Americans will walk and do walk.  Ever been to Disney World or NYC?  I could also name a hundred other examples. Lots of people from our neck of the woods don't walk in Tulsa because...

 1.  We haven't designed our city to be a place that is easy and comfortable to walk in.
2. We have instead designed a city that makes it easy and comfortable to get around in using a car, at the expense of the pedestrian.
3. Our culture is used to 1 & 2 so even in the small "starter pedestrian areas" we do have going people are idiots about them.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TheArtist on October 29, 2018, 09:03:21 pm
The thing about rail is it creates denser development. When planning a new rail system you need to mix between connecting existing places to create demand and then traveling past empty land for development. Rail through its very presence encourages dense infill. Oklahoma City is doing a good job of this. I would traffic calm Cheyenne and 4th, remove three lanes of car traffic from each for dedicated rail and run it north to Pine, south to 15th and east to TU and west across the river to the OSU Health Sciences Center.

You can have all the "denser development" in the world and it still be a miserable place I wouldn't want to live in.  

I still say, creating great places that people will want to walk and bike in is first and best priority.

I go to Dallas all the time and see density that we could only dream of. High-rises out the wazoo in some areas. Nobody walking, horrid experience. Even the areas around their transit stations seem fake and devoid of real urban life. Dallas is just a high-rise suburbia. Its not a real city. I know smaller cities than Tulsa that offer better, safer, more lively, enjoyable, more beautiful, attractive and competitive urban lifestyles.

Our zoning is mostly auto centric.  We have NO pedestrian/transit zoning anywhere in the city. None.  Zilch. 

We now have some areas that "allow" pedestrian/transit type developments to occur.  But any moron could see what might happen over time to these small islands of pedestrian/ transit "allowed" in an ocean only auto centric zoning. They will flounder and struggle. Tulsa has so much potential. If we do things right, we could be fantastic. We are not reaching our full potential and not going anywhere as fast as we could be.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Red Arrow on October 29, 2018, 11:43:47 pm
Americans will walk and do walk.  Ever been to Disney World or NYC?  I could also name a hundred other examples.

I agree Americans will walk around in the districts but I don't see Americans walking from the Blue Dome to Cherry St or a similar distance.
https://goo.gl/maps/yw3ZnjrSmhm

Been to Disney World, Disney Land and Universal Studios in FL. Lots of walking but it was, as I remember (long time ago), like walking around a district or maybe Blue Dome to the Arts District.

NYC was long ago too.  Our family went to the NYC Boat Show a few years. Dad had it all planned out.  Drive to the park and ride in NJ, take the bus to NYC, then I think the subway to the boat show.  I think we did walk to dinner since the cabs wouldn't take 5 (Mom, Dad, 3 kids).  I don't remember how we got back to the bus to get back to the park and ride.  I was in Chicago about 20 years ago for a trade show. Several of us took a cab to some bars.  I think we walked back to the hotel.  I had no idea of how to get from here to there so I followed the leader.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Red Arrow on October 30, 2018, 12:06:43 am
OKC streetcars cost $5 million each, our contractor was Brookville, PA. 
Streetcars last a lot longer than rubber tire buses.  I think streetcars average 30 years but SEPTA ran some early 1930s cars into the 70s.  I believe the 1940s cars ran to the mid 1980s.  Brookville has rebuilt several PCC trolleys with new running gear for San Francisco, Philadelphia and I think a few others.  https://www.brookvillecorp.com/streetcar-restoration.asp

Quote
IIRC the OKC streetcar system can be converted to run off-wire.
I think it can run for some distance off wire where the wire is impractical.



Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Red Arrow on October 30, 2018, 12:21:05 am
The streetcars were among our visions with MAPS I; we didn't get the federal grant needed to help plan the 1st streetcar; Salt Lake City got that money for their streetcar roll out for their winter Olympic games.
I believe even now OKC is footing the bill because you are using Girder Rail in the streets, which is the correct rail to use.  The last I saw, no Girder rail is made in the USA which means that you cannot use it if you get federal funding.  (Unless that has changed since I last looked a couple of years ago.)
http://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=%2fdl75omG&id=835136469A7FC50CA50952367528A1E4C4BE174B&thid=OIP._dl75omGdamYPsH9enbVagHaFj&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fmaxfaqs.files.wordpress.com%2f2010%2f10%2fimg_7868.jpg&exph=768&expw=1024&q=girder+rail&simid=607999477198489934&selectedIndex=0&ajaxhist=0

Quote
We went with the Vintage Rubber bus tire trolleys for downtown.  They were unpopular; we were hyped for the streetcar which had we gotten--expansion talk would be the topic of conversation now.  Also who knows, maybe we weren't ready for the streetcar and it would have failed.  Will admit that OKC officials have learned from early MAPS 1, 2 and Hoops initiatives.

Those buses are good for short term things like the shuttle to events like Octoberfest but rarely hold a ridership for continuous use.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on October 31, 2018, 08:56:55 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-c3f45bd2d7d3ba504fa14299191dd1f7.jpg)
Larentay Walker, one of the construction workers who installed the rail, signs a rail Thursday at NW 5 and Robinson in downtown Oklahoma City. From Staff Reports
Published: Fri, October 26, 2018 5:00 AM[Photos by Sarah Phipps, The Oklahoman]


Quote
The Oklahoma City Liberty Streetcars offer seating for up to 30 passengers and the capacity to comfortably transport up to 100 passengers. Notably, the Liberty Streetcars feature more than 70 percent American content, meaning they would meet Buy America compliance if the project is awarded Federal funding in the future.

Brookville Equipment Corporation Delivers First of Seven Liberty Streetcars to Oklahoma City for MAPS 3 Modern Streetcar Program:  https://www.brookvillecorp.com/BROOKVILLE-Delivers-First-OKC-Liberty-Streetcar.asp?news=news-streetcar.asp (https://www.brookvillecorp.com/BROOKVILLE-Delivers-First-OKC-Liberty-Streetcar.asp?news=news-streetcar.asp)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on November 05, 2018, 07:06:50 pm

(https://i2.wp.com/okiehomegirl.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Oklahoma-City-Streetcar.jpg?resize=1024%2C683)
Embark hosted a Oklahoma City Streetcar open house Monday, April 2, 2018:  http://okiehomegirl.com/oklahoma-city-streetcar-2/ (http://okiehomegirl.com/oklahoma-city-streetcar-2/)


For first 3 weeks, streetcar will be free:  https://newsok.com/article/5613926/for-first-3-weeks-streetcar-will-be-free (https://newsok.com/article/5613926/for-first-3-weeks-streetcar-will-be-free)

Oklahoma Streetcar (Youtube Video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8gnRi-3QSA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8gnRi-3QSA)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on November 05, 2018, 07:21:09 pm
Looks like the light rail cars we have.

(http://www.jtbell.net/transit/images/Phoenix/McDowell.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Laramie on November 08, 2018, 01:32:28 pm

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/streetcar110318.jpg)
Oklahoma City Streetcar maintenance & storage facility with the I-40 E/W Crosstown interstate upper left. Pic via OKCTalk Transportation, Streetcar thread.  11-04-2018


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on November 09, 2018, 01:19:21 pm
Oklahoma City Streetcar maintenance & storage facility with the I-40 E/W Crosstown interstate upper left. Pic via OKCTalk Transportation, Streetcar thread.  11-04-2018

what does this have to do with Ikea rumor? Can we please kill this thread or rename it OKC general discussion?

Entire thread created about an Ikea rumor that was completely false and turned into a OKC vs Tulsa debate and now a general OKC discussion.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Rattle Trap on November 09, 2018, 02:06:43 pm
Quote
And yesterday was the first time we have finally gotten to the true core of the matter - why they and other 'high value' equipment manufacturers will never move to Oklahoma.  I was literally told there is 'no draw there' - neither in OKC nor Tulsa areas.  By that, there is no high-end tourist type 'attraction' that would get their clients/customers interested in visiting the place for training, factory visits, etc.  Or even to get people to move here to work, if there were specific jobs that needed particular people.   I mentioned casinos but the counter was that Las Vegas has casinos....

It's always interesting to me when people from other states, especially coastal ones, think there's nothing going on here. I work for a company with a fairly large "temporary" office in Tulsa, where the majority of employees are from the Northeast. Most of them are completely surprised at how nice it is here and how it's really not that different form any larger city they're used to. If anything they comment how nice everyone is, how there's very little traffic, how it's a great place to raise their kids, and how they can still have plenty of entertainment and things to do like they would back home. Several of them have volunteered to stay when a permanent office is eventually built.

It's all part of the stereotypes and national narratives about "flyover country". Unfortunately, whether it's true or not, it keeps people uninterested in the city, state, and region. That's why I think there needs to be a constant effort to market the city to both people and companies and to push for things that bring consistent national attention to change the above mindset.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on November 09, 2018, 02:12:41 pm
The IKEA rumor is not false.  IKEA has been inquiring into a site for OKC.  Fact.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: swake on November 09, 2018, 02:41:12 pm
The IKEA rumor is not false.  IKEA has been inquiring into a site for OKC.  Fact.

IKEA is not expanding the United States. All planned and prospective stores not already under construction as of mid 2018 were canceled. All of them.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on November 09, 2018, 06:33:27 pm
Not going to argue.  There were discussions as far back as 2017 and they inquired about a site in DT OKC.  Apparently, another inquiry was made mid summer in North OKC at Chisholm Creek.  I never said it was for sure happening.  I simply confirmed they have been sniffing around.   Additionally, site selection can take a long time.  See the original Costco location in OKC 6 years ago.  I simply know they have inquired.  Fact.   Also, what if they shift away from a retail site to a centrally located distribution facility in OKC.  Possibly to facilitate the shift to e-commerce?  Possibly to support the 5 locations in Texas? Hmmm. I know a city with a recent Fed Ex expansion and Amazon expansion near an airport and major highways with a city and airport trust eagerly awaiting to incentivize new industrial development.   Hint.   Lariat Landing OKC.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on November 09, 2018, 06:34:00 pm
http://www.furnituretoday.com/article/554086-ikeas-us-expansion-plans-shift/


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on November 09, 2018, 06:34:36 pm
The rumor is not false.  Inquiries were made.


Title: Re: OKC Ikea rumor
Post by: SXSW on November 10, 2018, 10:47:07 am
It's always interesting to me when people from other states, especially coastal ones, think there's nothing going on here. I work for a company with a fairly large "temporary" office in Tulsa, where the majority of employees are from the Northeast. Most of them are completely surprised at how nice it is here and how it's really not that different form any larger city they're used to. If anything they comment how nice everyone is, how there's very little traffic, how it's a great place to raise their kids, and how they can still have plenty of entertainment and things to do like they would back home. Several of them have volunteered to stay when a permanent office is eventually built.

It's all part of the stereotypes and national narratives about "flyover country". Unfortunately, whether it's true or not, it keeps people uninterested in the city, state, and region. That's why I think there needs to be a constant effort to market the city to both people and companies and to push for things that bring consistent national attention to change the above mindset.

At the same time this perception keeps growth in check and limits huge real estate price escalations like you see in the coastal and “hot” inland markets.  When once-sleepy inland cities like Austin and Nashville start becoming hot it’s only a matter of time before we see the same thing happen in Tulsa. So enjoy it while it’s still affordable and easy to get around.  :)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 12, 2018, 08:02:51 pm


Softball Hall of Fame Stadium to begin $21 million expansion:
  https://kfor.com/2018/04/10/softball-hall-of-fame-stadium-to-begin-21-million-expansion/ (https://kfor.com/2018/04/10/softball-hall-of-fame-stadium-to-begin-21-million-expansion/)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball1.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball2.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball3.jpg)

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2018/04/softball041018j.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&strip=all)
Pics via OKCTalk Forum Sports Thread, Softball Hall of Fame.


Construction has started on the expansion to Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in the Oklahoma City Adventure District.

OKC Adventure District includes:   USA Softball Hall of Fame, Oklahoma City Zoo, Remington Park Racino, Science Museum Oklahoma, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Oklahoma State Firefighters' Museum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 14, 2018, 11:40:24 am
Here's some info on the new DT convention center:  MAPS 3 convention center to create a new skyline south of downtown OKC (2016-08-24): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtOx6hHaSZw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtOx6hHaSZw)

New convention center bid comes in $20 million below budget: https://freepressokc.com/new-convention-center-bid-comes-in-20-million-below-budget/index.html (https://freepressokc.com/new-convention-center-bid-comes-in-20-million-below-budget/index.html)

Quote
“Once we get started with the Omni Hotel and the Convention Center there will be about $500 million of construction going on between those two projects, the new garage, the new park and the streetcar that comes right there at that corner,” Todd said.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-65752a751caf17bfbb658fa05a0afc51.jpg)
Technology consulting company Booz Allen Hamilton is set to add 130 new jobs at its downtown Oklahoma City operation and at Tinker Air Force Base. [The Oklahoman archives]


Quote
The jobs come with an average $85,000 annual wage and an estimated economic impact of $116.7 million over the first seven years of the agreement. The estimated local sales and property taxes are expected to top $509,414 over the first five years and $173,558 annually from the sixth year forward.

Defense contractor set to add 130 jobs: https://www.oklahoman.com/defense-contractor-set-to-add-130-jobs-downtown-at-tinker-air-force-base/article/5614903 (https://www.oklahoman.com/defense-contractor-set-to-add-130-jobs-downtown-at-tinker-air-force-base/article/5614903)

 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 14, 2018, 12:06:54 pm

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-c33f15a8eadddfa3accefa433c3603c6.jpg)
New arena proposed for Oklahoma City State Fair Park to replace the Jim Norick State Fair Arena: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=165&v=E7Jr2RKq4OY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=165&v=E7Jr2RKq4OY)

Fairgrounds of the future includes plan for new arena:  https://newsok.com/article/5516413/fairgrounds-of-the-future-includes-plan-for-new-arena (https://newsok.com/article/5516413/fairgrounds-of-the-future-includes-plan-for-new-arena)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on November 14, 2018, 12:14:25 pm

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-c33f15a8eadddfa3accefa433c3603c6.jpg)
New arena proposed for Oklahoma City State Fair Park to replace the Jim Norick State Fair Arena: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=165&v=E7Jr2RKq4OY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=165&v=E7Jr2RKq4OY)



Why? What purpose will this arena serve? What problem does it solve that the current arena and Chesapeake can't?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: AngieB on November 14, 2018, 12:24:05 pm
Why? What purpose will this arena serve? What problem does it solve that the current arena and Chesapeake can't?

My question is WHY are will STILL talking about OKC? They have their own forum at http://www.okctalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 14, 2018, 12:25:05 pm
My question is WHY are will STILL talking about OKC? They have their own forum at http://www.okctalk.com


It's our "little brother" obsession...always trying to outdo bigger brother....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on November 14, 2018, 12:45:55 pm
My question is WHY are will STILL talking about OKC? They have their own forum at http://www.okctalk.com

I'm okay with having an OKC development thread but not in the Development & New Business forum which should be about Tulsa.  Maybe call The Burbs subforum The Region and it can go in there.  Similar to how the Tulsa thread works on OKCTalk: http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=109 (http://www.okctalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=109)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 14, 2018, 12:50:15 pm
Why? What purpose will this arena serve? What problem does it solve that the current arena and Chesapeake can't?


(http://fa2016.thedude.oucreate.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/img-Norrick-Arena-to-receive-million-dollar-face-lift-300x169.jpg) (http://fa2016.thedude.oucreate.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2844-150x150.jpg) (http://www.mcdiamond.com/images/Arene%20Photo/okfair/l.jpg)

It will replace the aging State Fair Arena built in 1965.  There are some 15-20 horse events & shows are held annually; also the High School basketball playoffs (all classes except 6A), & state wrestling events are held.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-7c21f0f16c6ffb6c4852222fd47be4f5.jpg) (http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRUhHdnydG02-a29dxuQXST0IJETZduDW0pe6HwhoplAMYf6zU_kw)

Many new facilities to accommodate the horse show events and the new Bennett Events Center were constructed in the last few years.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on November 14, 2018, 03:11:20 pm
My question is WHY are will STILL talking about OKC? They have their own forum at http://www.okctalk.com

We also have a Tulsa Development thread on OKCTalk.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on November 14, 2018, 03:37:52 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-7c21f0f16c6ffb6c4852222fd47be4f5.jpg)

convenient parking!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on November 14, 2018, 03:44:58 pm
We also have a Tulsa Development thread on OKCTalk.

Perhaps we could create an area for OKC?
It'd serve a better purpose than our national politics forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 15, 2018, 11:14:31 am

(https://photos.smugmug.com/USA/Oklahoma/Oklahoma-City/i-n8gjHc3/0/L/OKC-365-L.jpg)

Missed opportunity for Oklahoma City's Centennial Land Run Monument?

Oklahoma City Downtown Centennial Land Run Monument:  https://youtu.be/y6nNvaZerb4 (https://youtu.be/y6nNvaZerb4)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 15, 2018, 12:47:40 pm
OKC Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark ground-turf renovations:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ballpark111218.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ballpark111218b.jpg)
Pics via OKCTalk Forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 15, 2018, 04:28:28 pm
Oklahoma City Skydance Pedestrian Bridge


(https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/vjFEvz3Vig9pxHzg_SF28G27hrE=/950x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/164333886-56a6c7973df78cf772900068.jpg)

(http://www.reddirtreport.com/sites/default/files/styles/article-main/public/skydancebridge_0.jpg?itok=KbJp5zbP)

The Skydance Pedestrian Bride over I-40 just south of DT OKC cost $6.5 million to construct.  It is one of those structures shaped to resemble the state bird--the scissortail flycatcher.  The bridge highlighted by different color and color combinations, illuminates the skyline as drivers observe it from the 10 lane I-40 crosstown expressway.

Skydance Pedestrian Bride video presentation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJsGzhoQt0A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJsGzhoQt0A)

OKC Myriad Botanical Gardens

(https://oklahomacitybotanicalgardens.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/Myriad-Gardens-view-from-Vast.png)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 15, 2018, 08:08:48 pm

Will Rogers World Airport Expansion

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/will-rogers.jpg?quality=85&strip=all)


Will Rogers World Airport Expansion:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JC6issd54o (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JC6issd54o)

A $110 million multi-phase expansion and renovation project, designed by Atkins Benham Inc. and Gensler and built by Oscar J. Boldt Construction Company,[10] began in 2001.

In 2014, the Airport Trust selected Option 2a, which includes only the central terminal improvements. The $3.6M project will create a new central checkpoint in the center of the check-in hall. Two new greeter lobbies will be created where existing check points exist. The expansion will slightly reduce the space utilized by Sonic in the food court. The restrooms in the
area will also be relocated to the nearby Osage room. The Southwest ticket counters will be relocated further east.

In 2015 the airport trust agreed to proceed with the full construction of the East Concourse due to increased congestion in the existing West and Central concourses and passenger demand.

The new East expansion will also include an innovative view system composed of an elevated platform that will allow visitors to walk above the newly expanded East section and view down onto the concourse and the airside. Visitors would enter the elevated walkway in the terminal lobby non-secured side and there will also be a lounge.   This would give the terminal a final configuration with three concourses, East, West, and Central and would provide the airport with 30+ gates.  

Will Rogers World Airport terminal expansion gets final go-ahead:  https://newsok.com/article/5605696/airport-authority-gives-final-approval-to-plans-for-will-rogers-terminal-expansion. (https://newsok.com/article/5605696/airport-authority-gives-final-approval-to-plans-for-will-rogers-terminal-expansion.)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 15, 2018, 08:56:15 pm

Father Rother Shine & 2,000-seat Roman Catholic Basilica will be built in South Oklahoma City


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-79414743cfc9282bca677ea1a04460a5.jpg)

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City has chosen The Boldt Co. to serve as construction manager for the building of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City.

The shrine will be built on a former golf course at SE 89 between Shields Boulevard and Interstate 35. It will be the final resting place for Rother, an Okarche native who was killed in 1981 in Guatemala while serving the poor as a missionary priest. In 2016, Pope Francis declared Rother the first martyr for the Catholic Church in the United States.
In September 2017, during a Beatification Mass in downtown Oklahoma City, he became the first martyr and the first U.S.-born priest to be beatified — the last step before sainthood.

Groundbreaking on the 56-acre shrine complex is expected in early 2020 with completion by summer 2022.--Oklahoman, August 11, 2018

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKY21eo1v0A/Uc2f3PTwOUI/AAAAAAAADJU/fQo7cUtbliA/w1200-h630-p-k-no-nu/STANLEY.jpg)
Blessed Father Stanley Rother

The shrine will include a 2,000-seat church, a 200-seat chapel, a museum and a pilgrim center, which will tell the story of Rother's life and martyrdom.
An event center and education building will be added in front of the main church.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/799/39571185420_8d426f2215_b.jpg)


The Boldt Co. will join design architects Franck and Lohsen, of Washington, D.C., and project architects ADG, of Oklahoma City.
The shrine will include a 2,000-seat church, a 200-seat chapel, a museum and a pilgrim center, which will tell the story of Rother’s life and martyrdom.

“The committee found The Boldt Company leadership to be highly capable and good communicators with a deep understanding of the mission and purpose of the shrine,” Molly Bernard, chairman of the shrine selection committee, said in a news release...

Blessed Stanley Rother shrine fundraising campaign surpasses initial goal:  https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine-fundraising-campaign-surpasses-initial-goal-86348 (https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine-fundraising-campaign-surpasses-initial-goal-86348)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/40/Ecclesiastical_Province_of_Oklahoma_City_map.png)
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is a particular church of the Latin Rite of the Roman Catholic Church in the midwestern region of the United States. Its ecclesiastical territory includes 46 counties in western Oklahoma. The Most Reverend Paul Stagg Coakley is the current archbishop. He is the metropolitan of the ecclesiastical province which includes the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, the Diocese of Tulsa and the Diocese of Little Rock.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on November 15, 2018, 10:05:40 pm

Father Rother Shine & 2,000-seat Roman Catholic Basilica will be built in South Oklahoma City


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-79414743cfc9282bca677ea1a04460a5.jpg)

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City has chosen The Boldt Co. to serve as construction manager for the building of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine in Oklahoma City.

The shrine will be built on a former golf course at SE 89 between Shields Boulevard and Interstate 35. It will be the final resting place for Rother, an Okarche native who was killed in 1981 in Guatemala while serving the poor as a missionary priest. In 2016, Pope Francis declared Rother the first martyr for the Catholic Church in the United States.
In September 2017, during a Beatification Mass in downtown Oklahoma City, he became the first martyr and the first U.S.-born priest to be beatified — the last step before sainthood.

Groundbreaking on the 56-acre shrine complex is expected in early 2020 with completion by summer 2022.--Oklahoman, August 11, 2018

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uKY21eo1v0A/Uc2f3PTwOUI/AAAAAAAADJU/fQo7cUtbliA/w1200-h630-p-k-no-nu/STANLEY.jpg)
Blessed Father Stanley Rother

The shrine will include a 2,000-seat church, a 200-seat chapel, a museum and a pilgrim center, which will tell the story of Rother's life and martyrdom.
An event center and education building will be added in front of the main church.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/799/39571185420_8d426f2215_b.jpg)


The Boldt Co. will join design architects Franck and Lohsen, of Washington, D.C., and project architects ADG, of Oklahoma City.
The shrine will include a 2,000-seat church, a 200-seat chapel, a museum and a pilgrim center, which will tell the story of Rother’s life and martyrdom.

“The committee found The Boldt Company leadership to be highly capable and good communicators with a deep understanding of the mission and purpose of the shrine,” Molly Bernard, chairman of the shrine selection committee, said in a news release...

Blessed Stanley Rother shrine fundraising campaign surpasses initial goal:  https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine-fundraising-campaign-surpasses-initial-goal-86348 (https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine-fundraising-campaign-surpasses-initial-goal-86348)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/40/Ecclesiastical_Province_of_Oklahoma_City_map.png)
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is a particular church of the Latin Rite of the Roman Catholic Church in the midwestern region of the United States. Its ecclesiastical territory includes 46 counties in western Oklahoma. The Most Reverend Paul Stagg Coakley is the current archbishop. He is the metropolitan of the ecclesiastical province which includes the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, the Diocese of Tulsa and the Diocese of Little Rock.

This looks incredible. Really awesome. Terrible location.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2018, 10:42:42 am
(https://www.cobases.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Tinker-AFB-Logistics-Center.jpg)

U.S. Air Force officials have selected Tinker Air Force Base to provide maintenance for the B-21 Raider once the bomber comes online in the mid 2020s, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson announced Friday.

(https://www.chip.pl/uploads/2016/02/0000000000000e7HrwUMvpqqaXH2kA50.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds57A9Y4LxA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds57A9Y4LxA)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z3P3et2-PU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z3P3et2-PU)

Quote
Wilson said the Air Force hasn't determined how many jobs the new mission might create, but she expects it to be comparable to the KC-46A mission, which created about 1,350 jobs at the base. Wilson said she expected the base would need to expand its maintenance facilities to accommodate the new mission, although base officials have no plans to do so.

Oklahoman:  https://www.oklahoman.com/tinker-air-force-base-to-be-home-for-maintenance-of-new-stealth-bomber/article/5615270 (http://"https://www.oklahoman.com/tinker-air-force-base-to-be-home-for-maintenance-of-new-stealth-bomber/article/5615270")


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on November 17, 2018, 12:34:00 pm
(https://www.cobases.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Tinker-AFB-Logistics-Center.jpg)

U.S. Air Force officials have selected Tinker Air Force Base to provide maintenance for the B-21 Raider once the bomber comes online in the mid 2020s, Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson announced Friday.

(https://www.chip.pl/uploads/2016/02/0000000000000e7HrwUMvpqqaXH2kA50.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds57A9Y4LxA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ds57A9Y4LxA)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z3P3et2-PU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_z3P3et2-PU)

Oklahoman:  https://www.oklahoman.com/tinker-air-force-base-to-be-home-for-maintenance-of-new-stealth-bomber/article/5615270 (http://"https://www.oklahoman.com/tinker-air-force-base-to-be-home-for-maintenance-of-new-stealth-bomber/article/5615270")

(https://media.makeameme.org/created/we-need-to-5bf05e.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2018, 12:41:09 pm
B 21 RAIDER: WHY RUSSIA & CHINA SHOULD FEAR IT?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s)

Got to keep our opposition in check.  Hope we never have to use these planes to bomb any country; however if it keeps us safe--it accomplishes it purpose.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 18, 2018, 03:39:05 pm

(https://www.railway-technology.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/24/2017/10/2l-image-185.jpg)

EMBARK officials prepare for beginning of streetcar system in downtown OKC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrmMHb88cAA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DrmMHb88cAA)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 18, 2018, 04:39:02 pm

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-b38c19cced5e272666125244137c14c5.jpg)
 
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rei1.jpg)

Quote
“With activities like paddling along the Oklahoma River to hiking in the Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma City is an exciting location for the co-op,” Kristen Engels, REI retail director for the Southwest district, said in a statement. “We are excited to join this community and provide our 46,500 members in the state with quality gear and outdoor experiences.”

REI Co-op to open first store in state in Oklahoma City: https://www.seattletimes.com/business/rei-co-op-to-open-first-store-in-state-in-oklahoma-city/ (https://www.seattletimes.com/business/rei-co-op-to-open-first-store-in-state-in-oklahoma-city/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 18, 2018, 04:51:04 pm

Midtown, Oklahoma City

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/e102.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/e100.jpg)

Eight-story condo project planned for Midtown:  http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=550-8-story-condo-project-planned-for-Midtown (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=550-8-story-condo-project-planned-for-Midtown)

(https://www.405magazine.com/Culture-04-OKC-New-District.jpg)
(clockwise from top left) Uptown 23rd has become a bustling business district. // Steve Mason, Meg Salyer, and Mickey Clagg. // The Heart of Midtown // The Plaza District


A District Discussion   
The Pieces of Placemaking
By George Lang
Photos by Shannon Cornman:  https://www.405magazine.com/October-2016/A-District-Discussion/ (https://www.405magazine.com/October-2016/A-District-Discussion/)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 18, 2018, 05:54:36 pm
B 21 RAIDER: WHY RUSSIA & CHINA SHOULD FEAR IT?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s)

Got to keep our opposition in check.  Hope we never have to use these planes to bomb any country; however if it keeps us safe--it accomplishes it purpose.



Corporate Welfare.  B-21... B-2 rev 0.1.

Does 2 things - puts on jamming for low frequency radar - can you spell retrofit??   Like we have done for decades...   This goes right back to WWII technology...what was that movie with Kirk Douglas where his aircraft carrier went back to Dec 7,1942?  And they had trouble flying slow enough to splash the Zeroes...?

But then I am biased, since I did some B-1 work in the past.   Nothing quite like a "Cessna 180" coming at you at 2,000+ mph to ruin your day!


Second, they are specifically designing in drone capability - autonomous flight mode.  War as video game.  




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on November 18, 2018, 06:24:01 pm

Corporate Welfare.  B-21... B-2 rev 0.1.

Does 2 things - puts on jamming for low frequency radar - can you spell retrofit??   Like we have done for decades...   This goes right back to WWII technology...what was that movie with Kirk Douglas where his aircraft carrier went back to Dec 7,1942?  And they had trouble flying slow enough to splash the Zeroes...?

But then I am biased, since I did some B-1 work in the past.   Nothing quite like a "Cessna 180" coming at you at 2,000+ mph to ruin your day!


Second, they are specifically designing in drone capability - autonomous flight mode.  War as video game.  




The Final Countdown and it was December 6, 1941 that they traveled back to.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080736/?ref_=nv_sr_1 (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080736/?ref_=nv_sr_1)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 18, 2018, 06:33:32 pm
The Final Countdown and it was December 6, 1941 that they traveled back to.

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080736/?ref_=nv_sr_1 (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0080736/?ref_=nv_sr_1)


Yeah...day before Pearl.  Pretty good movie...

Really liked that old yacht the Senator was tooling around on!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TheArtist on November 18, 2018, 07:27:53 pm
Midtown, Oklahoma City

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/e102.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/e100.jpg)

Eight-story condo project planned for Midtown:  http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=550-8-story-condo-project-planned-for-Midtown (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=550-8-story-condo-project-planned-for-Midtown)

(https://www.405magazine.com/Culture-04-OKC-New-District.jpg)
(clockwise from top left) Uptown 23rd has become a bustling business district. // Steve Mason, Meg Salyer, and Mickey Clagg. // The Heart of Midtown // The Plaza District


A District Discussion   
The Pieces of Placemaking
By George Lang
Photos by Shannon Cornman:  https://www.405magazine.com/October-2016/A-District-Discussion/ (https://www.405magazine.com/October-2016/A-District-Discussion/)



Are there many people up in arms about how un-pedestrian/transit friendly that condo complex is in OKC?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 19, 2018, 05:19:45 am
IMO, there will always be some dislike to any development you build; if it's more bike lanes--they interfere with traffic, if it's sidewalks people don't use the ones we have.  OKC has moved more toward walk-ability and pedestrian friendly with most developments especially inside the core (Downtown, Bricktown & Midtown) where OKC has had an enormous upswing in building apartments, condominiums & residential housing:

West Village Apartments: https://www.apartments.com/west-village-oklahoma-city-ok/kpjdgj9/ (https://www.apartments.com/west-village-oklahoma-city-ok/kpjdgj9/)
The Edge at Midtown: https://www.apartments.com/the-edge-at-midtown-oklahoma-city-ok/nqt3d3n/ (https://www.apartments.com/the-edge-at-midtown-oklahoma-city-ok/nqt3d3n/)
The Hill in Bricktown: https://www.highrises.com/oklahoma-city/the-hill-at-bricktown/ (https://www.highrises.com/oklahoma-city/the-hill-at-bricktown/)
The Lift:  https://www.apartments.com/lift-oklahoma-city-ok/qbds4gz/ (https://www.apartments.com/lift-oklahoma-city-ok/qbds4gz/)
The Metropolitan: https://metropolitanok.prospectportal.com/ (https://metropolitanok.prospectportal.com/)
The Steelyard: https://tour.steelyardokc.net/oklahoma-city-apartments-for-rent?gclid=Cj0KCQiA28nfBRCDARIsANc5BFC3H22OeKoSSbLHkZCRG488VAPFL54Rg-A6PQuva9qchBUVIK5kPVkaAq9aEALw_wcB (https://tour.steelyardokc.net/oklahoma-city-apartments-for-rent?gclid=Cj0KCQiA28nfBRCDARIsANc5BFC3H22OeKoSSbLHkZCRG488VAPFL54Rg-A6PQuva9qchBUVIK5kPVkaAq9aEALw_wcB)

The above is the bulk of the core's residential housing boom.  Now, it's very difficult to gauge how residents will take on the core flavor living until the street & infrastructure construction is complete.  Many of these dwellings are 80-90% leased or purchased before they're built.  

We do see the positive side of developments--it has clean up areas that were an eyesore and potential blight on the city.  The challenge will be how these developments are maintained in the next 5-15 years from now.   My brother retired; he loves the downtown living.  Midtown, St. Anthony Hospital (Saints) and the OU Health Science Centers areas are developing more connectivity with a high profile police presence.  

Big plans to attract, keep & maintain young professionals and retirees.

.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on November 19, 2018, 09:21:30 am
B 21 RAIDER: WHY RUSSIA & CHINA SHOULD FEAR IT?  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9OGaLxU7Ds&t=324s)

Got to keep our opposition in check.  Hope we never have to use these planes to bomb any country; however if it keeps us safe--it accomplishes it purpose.


More importantly it spends hundreds of billions we don't have so that we can continue to add to that $22 trillion in debt and ensure our grandchildrens' children will be enslaved to insurmountable debt via endless war. Genius way to make the Republican party the party of big spending and massive increases behind the guise of "national security" as we foot the defense bill for the rest of the First World.

You're delusional if you think we need these B21s to be "safe"...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 19, 2018, 11:40:04 am
Some state was going to get those B-21s.

Whether or not they raised the debt by increases in the military defense budget of which this money Tinker received could have gone to any AFB in the country was decided by a Republican controlled Congress along with a President who signed off on it.   I agree with you 100%; the fact is it was done--just glad Oklahoma was allotted some of these funds.

You do realize that much of the money the Federal Government budgets goes to stimulate the economy.  Oklahoma for the longest was a contribution state; we are now a recipient state in highway and military defense funds; meaning we are getting what we paid in and then some back.  The impact Oklahoma military bases have on the state's economy is tangible as well as intangible.

We're told of what a great economy we live in today; also the economy is fragile.  Debts continue to rise; therefore how sustainable is the economy or will it fizzle out into a recession.

You mentioned the debts that will be passed on to our grandchildren's childrens isn't anything to be ignored.  Some future administration will be burdened with getting controls on spending--the cuts within the next 20 years will come--our economy can't continue to consume this amount of debt and be sustainable without future consequences.  


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on November 19, 2018, 12:58:17 pm
More importantly it spends hundreds of billions we don't have so that we can continue to add to that $22 trillion in debt and ensure our grandchildrens' children will be enslaved to insurmountable debt via endless war. Genius way to make the Republican party the party of big spending and massive increases behind the guise of "national security" as we foot the defense bill for the rest of the First World.

You're delusional if you think we need these B21s to be "safe"...

You’re delusional if you don’t think we need to continue upgrading our stealth bomber fleet to keep our advantage over the rest of the world.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on November 19, 2018, 02:29:29 pm
You’re delusional if you don’t think we need to continue upgrading our stealth bomber fleet to keep our advantage over the rest of the world.

We are outspending the next 8 or 9 top military spenders in the world combined! You're delusional if you think we need that much spending for security. The existential threat of "bad guys" around the world won't matter if those countries own our debt and hold major bargaining power over us (hint: many of them do, e.g. China). If the B21 is necessary, they should cut billions off of something else to make up for it. Instead congress just raises spending by billions.

With the economy being as good as it has been the last few years, the government should have had surpluses that we use to pay off some of that debt. It's the opposite. We are spending more than ever and assuring we will never get out of it.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on November 19, 2018, 03:15:11 pm

You do realize that much of the money the Federal Government budgets goes to stimulate the economy.  Oklahoma for the longest was a contribution state; we are now a recipient state in highway and military defense funds; meaning we are getting what we paid in and then some back.  The impact Oklahoma military bases have on the state's economy is tangible as well as intangible.



Good for Oklahoma to be a beneficiary of this and you're right they'll build it somewhere so better here than other places, but bad for the US to borrow money we don't have to pay for something we don't need.

That has always been a big argument of big-government Republicans, that the federal government needs to overspend to stimulate the economy...  That is true during a down economy, but if the last few years weren't a good economy that should be paying back debt, then we will never have a good economy. Yes government spending is an important part of the overall economy, but there are limits to how large it can affordably be and you cannot borrow forever without consequences. Debt and war should be temporary, not founding ideologies like with neo-cons and apparently neo-libs also (https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2011/05/how-perpetual-war-became-us-ideology/238600/ (https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2011/05/how-perpetual-war-became-us-ideology/238600/) https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/jan/09/america-dropped-26171-bombs-2016-obama-legacy (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2017/jan/09/america-dropped-26171-bombs-2016-obama-legacy)).

Social Security is paying out more than it receives already and is on track to runout by 2034. Then the federal government will have to pay those pensions in cash or maybe open up volunteer stations to start turning baby boomers into Soylent. The politicians should volunteer first for marching us into this smile show.
https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/report-shows-social-security-will-pay-more-than-it-collects-this-year-060718.html (https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/report-shows-social-security-will-pay-more-than-it-collects-this-year-060718.html)

So congrats to Tinker for being the beneficiary of this, but hard for me to get excited about more federal government expansion.

I don't think big-government Republicans or most Democrats understand how truly dire the situation is. We have a $1 trillion annual deficit and within a decade, more than $900 billion in interest payments will be due annually, easily outpacing spending on most all other programs.
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/25/business/economy/us-government-debt-interest.html (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/25/business/economy/us-government-debt-interest.html)

So we will be borrowing a trillion a year just to pay interest, stuck in a perpetual debt loop. Trump promised to fix the debt but he's made it much worse. Either we are intentionally being marched to an alarming financial crisis or politicians have no idea how economics work (current and previous admins).


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 19, 2018, 05:23:23 pm
You've preached to the choir & a former Alter Boy.  I'll genuflect to those comments anytime & anyplace.

Those of us who have paid into Social Security expect it to be solvent and available when we apply.  It's not like social security is some kind of welfare program.  Congress continues to pass tax breaks that benefit those making annual salaries of $200,000 or more annually and for the wealthiest of Americans and corporate America; then want to trim the budget on the backs of hardest working individuals & family.

Well anyway, gotta go so we may get back-on-topic.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on November 19, 2018, 07:52:33 pm
Well anyway, gotta go so we may get back-on-topic.

IKEA rumor?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 20, 2018, 12:23:06 am
IKEA rumor?

Predict IKEA will revisit & negotiate with the OKC market.   The nearest stores are Dallas, Kansas City & Memphis more than 200-300-400 miles away respectively.  IKEA have penetrated all markets with 2 million+ MSA population or more.  They are now looking at markets below 1.5 million; Memphis has a store, their MSA is slightly smaller than OKC's.  OKC MSA has a faster growth rate than Memphis by +8.67.  

Just a matter of time...

        2017 Population estimates:
                                                               2017             2010
        41    Oklahoma City, OK MSA       1,383,737    1,252,987    +10.44%    
        42    Memphis, TN-MS-AR MSA    1,348,260    1,324,829    +1.77%    


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 20, 2018, 01:09:02 am

Governor: Aerospace firm to create 350 jobs in Oklahoma: https://www.koco.com/article/aerospace-company-to-bring-aircraft-manufacturing-at-least-352-jobs-to-oklahoma/22725642 (https://www.koco.com/article/aerospace-company-to-bring-aircraft-manufacturing-at-least-352-jobs-to-oklahoma/22725642)

(https://www.suasnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Valkyrie-Guardian.jpg)
VSA working to create high-tech jobs and partnerships with area universities.  Valkyrie Systems Aerospace (VSA), a cutting-edge developer of manned/unmanned aerial platforms, is proud to announce an exciting partnership with the State of Oklahoma.

Quote
An aerospace manufacturer that produces unmanned aircraft plans to locate its operations center in Oklahoma City and create more than 350 jobs over the next five years...

"Our talented workforce and low cost of doing business along with a good quality of life makes Oklahoma very attractive for growing companies like Valkyrie," Fallin said.

The Oklahoma Department of Commerce worked with Valkyrie for nine months to secure the project. Commerce officials said the company has been awarded a 21st Century Quality Jobs Program incentive contract, which is issued to qualifying businesses with a highly skilled, high-paid, knowledge-based workforce.

OKC continues to attract jobs to its metropolitan area. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on November 20, 2018, 08:32:12 am
(https://www.suasnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Valkyrie-Guardian.jpg)

All bow before skynet


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 20, 2018, 01:58:26 pm
From the Oklahoma Gazette (November 18, 2018):

Banking on education
Oklahoma City Public Schools will renovate Central National Bank building for its new administration headquarters.
BY MIGUEL RIOS


(https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog2x/5061359/615classen111718a.jpg)

Oklahoma City Public Schools will move their administration office to a building better-suited for its needs and services.

The school district is going forward with plans to renovate the old Central National Bank building on 615 N. Classen Ave. into its new headquarters.

“The past nine to 12 months, we've been working on plans to make sure it can house the 180 employees we need to move in there and still accommodate our needs as far as a board meeting space,” said Scott Randall, OKCPS chief operations officer.

The project’s bid will open late November or early December. It will then present it to the Board of Education Dec. 10 and make a recommendation on who should receive the construction contract, Randall said.

“From there, we’re looking at about a 12-month construction period, so our goal is to be in the building in the winter of 2019,” he said. “Ideally by December 2019, but maybe more like January 2020.”

The three-story office will be called The Clara Luper Center for Educational Services, named after the civic leader who conducted sit-in protests that helped end segregation laws and policies in Oklahoma.

It will mark the first time the school district will have a building designed as an office space for its administrative services. Its previous building was a former school that was modified but never went through a full-scale renovation.

“For us to actually go into a building designed as an office building and is built for those purposes will make us more efficient and create a more collaborative environment for our team to work together,” Randall said. “We’re really excited for that.”

The district also plans to build an addition to the north of the office to better serve the city.

“The new building will have a large auditorium that will serve our board for board meetings and will have a couple of conference rooms in it,” Randall said. “We hope to be able to use that for not just board meetings but for professional development trainings in the district or other events where we need to bring together a large group.”

The former bank’s drive-thru structure still stands south of the building, across NW Fifth Street. It has gained some architectural acclaim for its mid-century design and unique wavy roof. The district hopes to avoid demolition, so Randall said it’s looking for interested parties to acquire the structure or move the roof.

“We would like to see it preserved, but we also realize we can't have that as an ongoing maintenance issue and we do need the area for parking,” he said. “We’ll have to make a decision on that in the next four to six months. We'll need to bring that to some sort of conclusion, but a final decision has not been made about that.”

The school district is also working with Oklahoma City Redevelopment Authority to find new use for their old office on 900 N. Klein Ave. The organization has conducted community meetings on the future of the building.

“They’re working to put together packages so firms can begin to bid on that particular building, so we hope in the very near future the sale of the building will be completed and it begins to be used in a way that becomes a vital part of that community,” he said.

The 96-year-old building was a former middle school. It served as the district’s offices since 1955.

The Dec. 10 board meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Northeast Academy, 3100 N. Kelley Ave.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/615nclassen111818.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/615classen111418a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/615classen111418c.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 20, 2018, 03:35:21 pm
Oklahoma City Asian District & Markets
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-0a27a6d006deaf24a400b393e5dcd80a.jpg)

(http://www.okgourmet.com/ok/goldphoenix.jpg) (https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/e6d74f9a-869a-4c4d-af5e-df346df4b663_d.jpg) (http://www.stevesfoodblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/super-cao-nguyen-oklahoma-city-ok.jpg)

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a1/OKC_Cathedral.jpg/330px-OKC_Cathedral.jpg)(http://www.lippertbros.com/files/cache/a5c33c9039474b8f720ff992e1b4a234_f825.jpg)
Oklahoma City Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
(https://scontent.fden3-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/43085695_545268035912024_2036722617599131648_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_ht=scontent.fden3-1.fna&oh=ff806a4ea95259aca189eef7920cb30f&oe=5C6ACC2B)

New Years 2018 - Lion Dance OKC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N70LzeX3XKw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N70LzeX3XKw)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 21, 2018, 02:03:06 pm
IKEA rumor?

Quote
As Ikea eliminates a huge number of jobs, it also plans on opening up even more positions than it eliminates. The reorganization could lead to the creation of 11,500 new jobs as it expands into 30 new smaller-format stores in cities around the world, Ikea said. Ingka currently owns 367 Ikea stores and employs 160,000 people of Ikea's 208,000 global workforce.

Ikea's major reorganization: Smaller stores and 7,500 job cuts:  https://www.cnn.com/2018/11/21/business/ikea-layoffs/index.html (https://www.cnn.com/2018/11/21/business/ikea-layoffs/index.html)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on November 21, 2018, 02:26:20 pm
Ikea's major reorganization: Smaller stores and 7,500 job cuts:  https://www.cnn.com/2018/11/21/business/ikea-layoffs/index.html (https://www.cnn.com/2018/11/21/business/ikea-layoffs/index.html)

Quote
The cuts will hit administrative and support jobs. Ikea said that fewer than 75 jobs will be eliminated in the United States.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 22, 2018, 01:05:22 am
Oklahoma City's Historic Stockyards City


(http://www.armadafleet.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/stockyard-city-armada-fleet-services-1024x683.jpg)

(http://www.armadafleet.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/cattlemens-steak-house-stockyard-city-truck-insurance-armada-fleet-services-1024x683.jpg)

(http://www.armadafleet.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/stock-yard-city-statue-armada-fleet-services-1024x683.jpg)

(http://www.armadafleet.net/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/oklahoma-national-stockyard-armada-fleet-services-1024x683.jpg)

Stockyards City (National Stockyard Exchange): https://www.adventureroad.com/destinations/stockyards-city-national-stockyard-exchange/ (https://www.adventureroad.com/destinations/stockyards-city-national-stockyard-exchange/)






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 22, 2018, 01:30:23 am
Oklahoma City's Historic Paseo Arts District

(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-w/0c/42/9c/ea/this-is-the-view-of-paseo.jpg)

(https://www.abetterlifeokc.com/clientuploads/blog/paseo-1.jpg) (https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/elpasoinc.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/0/af/0afc0312-d2eb-11e7-b010-9b952cf42fb3/5a1b286c2c48f.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C800) (https://www.abetterlifeokc.com/clientuploads/blog/Paseo-Arts-District-22.jpg)

(https://i2.wp.com/www.dishinanddishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/paseooutside.jpg?w=463)(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ofEwBpwYdNI/R180TQxyc2I/AAAAAAAAAAc/d6Uy4cTH3Ao/s400/galileo.jpg)


(https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/M-kyHg8Q50bAaPQCTYbiP6o0LqM=/950x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Paseo2-56a6c7ce3df78cf77290014a.jpg)



Great Food is an Art:  http://www.picassosonpaseo.com/ (http://www.picassosonpaseo.com/)            


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 25, 2018, 10:41:32 am


(https://cdn.ballotpedia.org/images/6/69/David_Holt.jpg) (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51CQeHCyrzL._SX331_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg)  (http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/6/2687/full/req843wvg98so355cfkawl2ef.gif)
David Holt is the current Mayor of Oklahoma City; he is the author of "Big League City,'  a fascinating story behind that transformative moment when "The Thunder" came to Oklahoma City, elevating it to a "big league city."

(https://disrupthr.co/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Oklahoma-City-1.jpg)

(http://archive.newsok.com/olive/apa/oklahoman/get/image.ashx?kind=page&href=DOK%2F2008%2F07%2F03&page=1) (https://static.seattletimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/DhHV8d-UYAEG7oW.jpg)

NBA Sports

NBA approves Sonics’ move to Oklahoma City
Originally published April 18, 2008 at 12:00 am Updated April 19, 2008 at 3:02 am

The NBA Board of Governors voted overwhelmingly today to approve the Sonics' move from Seattle to Oklahoma City. Sonics owner Clay Bennett is trying to get out of the lease to play at KeyArena through 2010 and move the team before next season. The City of Seattle has filed a lawsuit to keep the Sonics...

(http://)

(https://www.abetterlifeokc.com/images/331_orig.jpg)  (https://aviewfrommyseat.com/wallpaper/anonymous-20160412093949.jpg)
Chesapeake Energy Arena NBA basketball seating capacity: 18,203 Terrace Suites – 48 (32 north, 16 south), Private Suites – 29 Bunker Suites - 7 (event level), 8 (entry level)

How the Sonics became the Thunder: A timeline  http://articles.latimes.com/2012/jun/16/sports/la-sp-0617-sonics-thunder-timeline-20120617 (http://articles.latimes.com/2012/jun/16/sports/la-sp-0617-sonics-thunder-timeline-20120617)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 26, 2018, 11:10:12 am

Oklahoma City Boathouse District

Oklahoma City Boathouse District 'A Tribute to Aubrey McClendon":  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvWY4-mtkIc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvWY4-mtkIc)

 (http://www.e-a-a.com/portfolios/Community/OKC_Boathouse_District/Boathouse%20District_007.jpg) (https://unaokc.files.wordpress.com/2015/10/24049-boat_district.jpg?w=320&h=176&zoom=2)

(http://www.e-a-a.com/portfolios/Community/OKC_Boathouse_District/Boathouse%20District_005.jpg)

Tulsa World Sports Extra:
Boathouse District park promises to make Oklahoma City a destination for river sports:  https://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/othersports/boathouse-district-park-promises-to-make-oklahoma-city-a-destination/article_e6661fa1-cf58-5af6-89ae-b0f769d4c474.html (https://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/othersports/boathouse-district-park-promises-to-make-oklahoma-city-a-destination/article_e6661fa1-cf58-5af6-89ae-b0f769d4c474.html)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 26, 2018, 11:57:03 am
Oklahoma City Arts District

(https://assets.adventureroad.com/media/1075/okc-museum-of-art.png?preset=grid)

OKC Museum of Art [Uncovering Oklahoma]:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXyGA3iwALA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXyGA3iwALA)


(http://photos.cinematreasures.org/production/photos/194313/1481141906/large.jpg?1481141906) (https://www.405magazine.com/September-2012/Pursuits-September-CivicCenter-002.jpg)
Oklahoma City Civic Center Music Hall 201 North Walker Avenue,  Oklahoma City, OK 73102 Upcoming events: https://www.okcciviccenter.com/ (https://www.okcciviccenter.com/)


Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts

(https://i2.wp.com/www.uncoveringoklahoma.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-04-20-Festival-of-the-Arts-01.jpg?w=1620)

Arts Council of Oklahoma City:  https://www.artscouncilokc.com/ (https://www.artscouncilokc.com/)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 27, 2018, 11:53:41 am
(https://i0.wp.com/theaviationist.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/LRS.jpg?resize=500%2C334&ssl=1)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-c009a4a3bd9debd219e3442fc110cdf2.jpg)

Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson announces that officials have selected Tinker Air Force Base to provide maintenance for the B-21 Raider once the bomber comes on line in the mid-2020s Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman
.     

Tuesday, November 27, 2018 | by The Oklahoman Editorial Board

AN announcement that Tinker Air Force Base will maintain the B-21 Raider once the bomber comes on line is good news for the base and another validation of central Oklahoma's longtime support of the base.

Tinker celebrated its 75th anniversary last year, a true milestone considering there was no guarantee it would get to 50 or 60. During the early 1990s, Tinker faced the threat of closure, or at least significant downsizing, as result of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission process, which weighed the viability of all U.S. bases.

The state's congressional delegation lobbied hard for Tinker, and so did the community. A nonprofit group led by a former Tinker commander even asked metro-area cities to assist financially in the preservation effort, based on how many of their residents worked at Tinker. In Midwest City, council members set up a fund that allowed residents to “overpay their water bill and designate the extra mount be given to the task force,” a September 1994 story in The Daily Oklahoman noted.

Those efforts succeeded, allowing Tinker to prosper. Today, roughly 31,000 workers and their families are tied to Tinker, which has a $1.6 billion payroll. Lt. Gen. Lee Levy, former commander of the Air Force Sustainment Center at Tinker, would frequently note that the center is a $16 billion-a-year operation that would rank No. 116 if it were a Fortune 500 company.

Just two years ago, officials broke ground on a 158-acre KC-46 Sustainment Campus, on the site of what was once the BNSF Railway yard. That purchase, the result of an effort involving the Air Force, the city of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma County, will generate about 1,300 good-paying jobs maintaining the KC-46A Pegasus once that tanker begins flying.

Tinker is an important site with a strong record, something Air Force Secretary Heather Wilson noted earlier this month in naming the base to maintain the B-21 Raider.

“We made that decision because Tinker Air Force Base has the people and the experience and has shown its ability to provide sustainment to some of our most important aircraft,” Wilson said.

The B-21, a long-range stealth bomber, is expected to be delivered midway through the next decade, and is meant to replace the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers. Wilson says she expects this project to translate into roughly the same number of jobs as the KC-46A mission.

Sen. Jim Inhofe, R-Tulsa, perhaps the Senate's most hawkish member and a staunch defender of all of Oklahoma's military installation, says adding the B-21 to Tinker's maintenance roster “puts Oklahoma at the forefront of the next generation of military aircraft and solidifies Tinker's rightful place as the nation's premier air logistics facility.”

Where the military is concerned, nothing is guaranteed. But Tinker is on solid footing, and news like that delivered by Wilson only underscores that.

Leaving a comment - Thank you for joining our conversation on Oklahoman.com. We allow comments on our stories using the Facebook commenting platform. It is our intention to facilitate a conversation around news and information on Oklahoman.com. However, we reserve the right to evaluate each article and use discretion regarding commenting. For more details, see the Oklahoman.com commenting policy.

If you prefer your thoughts to appear in The Oklahoman's Opinion section, we encourage you to submit a letter to the editor.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 27, 2018, 12:22:52 pm
(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2018-11-27/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2018%2F11%2F27&id=Pc0170100&ext=.jpg&ts=20181127105810)
Lingo Construction is set to anchor the four-story, glass-and-steel Monarch Building being built at 1133 N Robinson in Midtown. [Photo by Dave Morris, The Oklahoman

Quote
“Moving to the Monarch is a great way to communicate who we are for the next 10 years," Lingo said. "It's not that we don't want to remodel and do old buildings, but we have grown and we are doing larger new steel and glass buildings that we may not be as well known for.”

The move is only a couple of blocks. Lingo said his decision was hastened by a purchase offer for 123 NW 8, a deal that is nearing completion. When Monarch is completed next year, Lingo Construction will be the anchor tenant with 25 of his 100 employees occupying 9,800 square feet on the first floor.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-6b9d26ccd431fdd99ef2f2793d04db9c.jpg)

The Monarch Building at 1133 N Robinson Ave. starts with a two-story white steel and glass facade with a two-story "glass box" above that is set back to give pedestrians the feel of walking down a street lined with two-story buildings. [Rendering by Fitzsimmons Architects]

Historic change: https://www.oklahoman.com/construction-company-transforms-its-image-with-monarch-building/article/5616129 (https://www.oklahoman.com/construction-company-transforms-its-image-with-monarch-building/article/5616129)

Quote
The partners, Bob Howard, Mickey Clagg and Chris Fleming, own dozens of residential, retail and office properties in Midtown with major developments including the Twelve Twelve Building, the Guardian Garage, Fassler Hall, Plaza Court, the Packard Building and the Buick Building.

Construction of “Monarch,” 1133 N Robinson Ave., is expected to start next month with completion by April 2019. Clagg and Fleming say the address has the advantage of being a half block from an OKC Streetcar stop and is within walking distance of an array of restaurants and shops.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 27, 2018, 12:29:11 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline090318.jpg)
Oklahoma City Skyline; via courtesy of OKCTalk 09/04/2018
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bricktown112418.jpg)
Oklahoma City Skyline; via courtesy of OKCTalk 11/27/2018


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 27, 2018, 12:43:49 pm

Oklahoma City's downtown housing boom.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-362119803cd970dbb610967f9d251dfb.jpg)
Boulevard Place, Oklahoma City (video presentation):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7_chaevAAc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7_chaevAAc)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/westvillage112418k.jpg)
Construction wraps up on the $70 million West Village in Oklahoma City

The development includes 345 residences, 9,000 square feet of commercial space and 805 structured parking spaces. Another 66 curbside parking spaces are included throughout this development.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: carltonplace on November 27, 2018, 01:01:49 pm
Man, they get all the nice tax revenues.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on November 27, 2018, 03:37:43 pm
Not the biggest fan of the architecture but the fact they were able to build all of the West Village as a single development is impressive, and will definitely enhance that area.  I stayed at the Museum21c Hotel when I was down there for a wedding and really liked it along with the Jones Assembly restaurant/bar.  That whole area was a desolate wasteland a few years ago.  I hope our Santa Fe Square project is similar but with nicer-looking residential buildings.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 28, 2018, 10:43:24 am

Oklahoma City's transformation:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVc4pgBGO28 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVc4pgBGO28)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 29, 2018, 09:31:10 pm
Winstar World Casino & Resort (World's Largest Casino):

117 miles south of Oklahoma City; 72 miles north of Dallas
(https://www.chickasaw.net/CMSPages/GetFile.aspx?guid=3f90ccee-f712-4645-83a2-c5599eb22893)

(https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/WS_Hotel_Page-Header_1500x350_2016.jpg)
1395 rooms on main casino complex (395 in Resort Tower, 500 in Pool Tower North, 500 in Pool Tower South)

(https://www.strombergarchitectural.com/images/stories/projects/winstar/parliament.jpg) (https://cdnssl-xxucvnztnfiuzqb5lc0.netdna-ssl.com/img/casinos/okWinstarCasinoPhoto.jpg)  (http://podtyazhki.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/winstar-convention-center-luxury-the-best-convention-center-in-north-texas-is-in-oklahoma-d-magazine-of-winstar-convention-center.jpg)

Winstar World Casino:  https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/winstar-world-casino-hotel/ (https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/winstar-world-casino-hotel/)

Winstar World Casino (Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VArJ02VozSo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VArJ02VozSo)

Five biggest casinos in the United States (Youtube):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAFYKyl_HWI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAFYKyl_HWI)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 01, 2018, 12:02:21 am


Oklahoma City Zoo: https://www.okczoo.org/ (https://www.okczoo.org/)

(http://city-sentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/elephants-1-Asia-1024x680.jpg)
Pic via City Sentinel

Oklahoma City Zoo

The Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; check for holiday exceptions
Address: 2101 NE 50th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Area: 119 acres

(https://img.glonstruct.com/1/v/t1.0-0/p180x540/37671628_1353959521415690_2361293201668571136_n.jpg?_nc_cat=0&oh=2f71537e339120602d65b2ad0d256388&oe=5C047B45)
Sanctuary Asia opening on September 30th (Friends of Zoo Newsletter); pic via Timberlake Construction.

Otters playing at the Oklahoma City Zoo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWyQ_FzWM6I (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWyQ_FzWM6I)

Zoo Fun at Oklahoma City Zoo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2GzbvCDYSQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2GzbvCDYSQ)

Oklahoma city zoo best ELEPHANTs exhibit:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uuz7sAFWCPU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uuz7sAFWCPU)

Oklahoma City Zoo Sea Lion Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMPyMOHB8B0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMPyMOHB8B0)

Oklahoma City Zoo and Philadelphia Zoo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZJgeo97C9U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vZJgeo97C9U)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on December 01, 2018, 03:54:17 pm
Winstar World Casino & Resort (World's Largest Casino):

117 miles south of Oklahoma City; 72 miles north of Dallas
(https://www.chickasaw.net/CMSPages/GetFile.aspx?guid=3f90ccee-f712-4645-83a2-c5599eb22893)

(https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/WS_Hotel_Page-Header_1500x350_2016.jpg)
1395 rooms on main casino complex (395 in Resort Tower, 500 in Pool Tower North, 500 in Pool Tower South)

(https://www.strombergarchitectural.com/images/stories/projects/winstar/parliament.jpg) (https://cdnssl-xxucvnztnfiuzqb5lc0.netdna-ssl.com/img/casinos/okWinstarCasinoPhoto.jpg)  (http://podtyazhki.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/winstar-convention-center-luxury-the-best-convention-center-in-north-texas-is-in-oklahoma-d-magazine-of-winstar-convention-center.jpg)

Winstar World Casino:  https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/winstar-world-casino-hotel/ (https://www.winstarworldcasino.com/winstar-world-casino-hotel/)

Winstar World Casino (Youtube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VArJ02VozSo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VArJ02VozSo)

Five biggest casinos in the United States (Youtube):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAFYKyl_HWI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAFYKyl_HWI)



  I drove past there today, Winstar is better described as attached to Gainesville, TX than to OK which is, I think you said, 117 some odd miles from OKC.  That would be like Tulsa trying to claim the Choctaw casino in Durant.  Or the Indigo Sky in Wyandotte.  Or Buffalo Run in Miami.  Exactly how many casinos are there located in OKC?  Something else, I was wondering which tribe is associated with Winstar?  One never hears of any tribal association when it comes to Winstar.  Why is that? 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on December 01, 2018, 04:57:57 pm
  I drove past there today, Winstar is better described as attached to Gainesville, TX than to OK which is, I think you said, 117 some odd miles from OKC.  That would be like Tulsa trying to claim the Choctaw casino in Durant.  Or the Indigo Sky in Wyandotte.  Or Buffalo Run in Miami.  Exactly how many casinos are there located in OKC?  Something else, I was wondering which tribe is associated with Winstar?  One never hears of any tribal association when it comes to Winstar.  Why is that? 

Chickasaw Nation

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WinStar_World_Casino (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WinStar_World_Casino)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on December 01, 2018, 06:19:09 pm
Thanks. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 12:24:36 pm
Oklahoma City Area Casinos:


Lucky Star Casino: LL Cool J - Hey Lover - Lucky Star Casino - El Reno, OK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qMPq1J5GLc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qMPq1J5GLc)

Grand Casino & Resort (Shawnee): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdIIgPoWcDw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdIIgPoWcDw)

Newcastle Casino: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WJ4AOqqAUo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WJ4AOqqAUo)

Remington Park - Oklahoma City's Adventure District - The Perfect Getaway:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xy7xZCYP-qo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xy7xZCYP-qo)

Riverwind Casino:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZ7ta4LuOIc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZ7ta4LuOIc)


Thunderbird Casinos in Norman & Shawnee - Come for Fun, Play to Win!:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCG1d1b-ngc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCG1d1b-ngc)

Oklahoma City area is saturated with casinos...



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 02:16:43 pm
Oklahoma City's MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) transformation.

MAPS HISTORY:  https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/maps-history (https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/maps-history)

(https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/960x0/https%3A%2F%2Fspecials-images.forbesimg.com%2Fimageserve%2Fb7fb502d4c6b436098701916ca78588e%2F960x0.jpg%3Ffit%3Dscale)
Oklahoma City's Bricktown Canal & Riverwalk

Forbes:  Oklahoma City's MAPS Is A Model Public Works Program:  https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottbeyer/2016/12/16/oklahoma-citys-maps-is-a-model-public-works-program/#31d0a99b3ab8 (https://www.forbes.com/sites/scottbeyer/2016/12/16/oklahoma-citys-maps-is-a-model-public-works-program/#31d0a99b3ab8)

MAPS III Projects:  https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/about-maps-3 (https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-3/about-maps-3)

Quick Facts

    Projects: Convention Center | Downtown Public Park | Modern Streetcar and Transit | Oklahoma State Fairgrounds Improvements | Senior Health & Wellness Centers | Oklahoma       River Improvements | Trails | Sidewalks

    Voter approved: Dec. 8, 2009
    Tax duration: April 2010 to December 2017
    Construction duration: 2012 to 2021 (scheduled)
    Total budget: $777 million

(http://www.successfulmeetings.com/uploadedImages/Destinations/MidWest/oklahoma-city-convention-center-rendering.jpg?n=6222) (http://journalrecord.com/files/2018/07/20902_N6.jpg) (http://journalrecord.com/files/2018/10/Streetcar-test_0038mh-1-300x160.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention112418a.jpg)
'Wall are going up.'
Construction on the new OKC convention center & Omni conference hotel via OKCTalk 11-26-2018


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 03:55:04 pm
  I drove past there today, Winstar is better described as attached to Gainesville, TX than to OK which is, I think you said, 117 some odd miles from OKC.  That would be like Tulsa trying to claim the Choctaw casino in Durant.  Or the Indigo Sky in Wyandotte.  Or Buffalo Run in Miami.  Exactly how many casinos are there located in OKC?  Something else, I was wondering which tribe is associated with Winstar?  One never hears of any tribal association when it comes to Winstar.  Why is that? 

Good point; glad you brought this to our attention.

Just want to clarify on the Winstar World Casino  thread; although it's not OKC stuff--it's inside Oklahoma; Dallas does claim that area as apart of the Combined Statistical Area (CMA)  7,846,293 which includes Durant, OK.  I have relatives in Dallas & Houston--they make the drive to Winstar. 

The Chickasaw tribe did capitalize on its location of its tribal land's proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
(http://mediad.publicbroadcasting.net/p/kgou/files/styles/medium/public/201405/american_indian_museum.jpg)

Also want to mention that the Chickasaw Tribe will be given 100 acres in the vicinity of Oklahoma City American Indian Cultural Center as apart of its agreement to complete its construction.   

AICCM:  https://www.chickasaw.tv/videos/the-vital-completion-of-the-american-indian-cultural-center-and-museum (https://www.chickasaw.tv/videos/the-vital-completion-of-the-american-indian-cultural-center-and-museum)



Tulsa World reports:  Indian Cultural Center construction to resume in Oklahoma City:  https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state/indian-cultural-center-construction-to-resume-in-oklahoma-city/article_b170e07d-2b66-59df-afc9-7f234d9499ef.html (https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state/indian-cultural-center-construction-to-resume-in-oklahoma-city/article_b170e07d-2b66-59df-afc9-7f234d9499ef.html)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on December 02, 2018, 04:58:48 pm
Good point; glad you brought this to our attention.

Just want to clarify on the Winstar World Casino  thread; although it's not OKC stuff--it's inside Oklahoma; Dallas does claim that area as apart of the Combined Statistical Area (CMA)  7,846,293 which includes Durant, OK.  I have relatives in Dallas & Houston--they make the drive to Winstar. 

The Chickasaw tribe did capitalize on its location of its tribal land's proximity to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Per Google, Oklahoma City to Winstar World Casino - 126 miles

Other Casinos closer to Oklahoma City than Winstar:

River Spirit/Margaritaville Casino - 107 miles
Hard Rock Tulsa - 118 miles
Osage Casino Tulsa - 110 miles

And basically all the other Tulsa area casinos.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Rattle Trap on December 02, 2018, 05:00:44 pm
Quote
Construction on the new OKC convention center & Omni conference hotel via

So that's what that is. I was driving back from Norman this morning and saw 3 tower cranes over there and couldn't figure out what that would be.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 05:39:13 pm
Per Google, Oklahoma City to Winstar World Casino - 126 miles

Other Casinos closer to Oklahoma City than Winstar:

River Spirit/Margaritaville Casino - 107 miles
Hard Rock Tulsa - 118 miles
Osage Casino Tulsa - 110 miles

And basically all the other Tulsa area casinos.


Interesting Swake that you mentioned the casinos in the Tulsa area; a friend of mind and his wife checked into the Hard Rock Hotel And Casino Tulsa thinking her meeting was there; instead it was at the River Spirit Casino Resort.  He and his wife experienced River Spirit Casino Resort & Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

(http://journalrecord.com/files/2016/07/mf-river-spirit-101-rip-7-28-16.jpg) (http://www.casinocenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/hard-rock-hotel-and-casino.jpg)

River Spirit Casino Resort & Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

They were really impressed with the two developments; he said they were 'awesome.'


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 05:45:25 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention112418a.jpg)

So that's what that is. I was driving back from Norman this morning and saw 3 tower cranes over there and couldn't figure out what that would be.

Took my bike ride from that area this morning to the Lake Overholser bike trail (decided to return and climb back into bed); that area saturated with red clay and construction pains reminded me of a war zone.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 02, 2018, 05:57:45 pm

(https://www.fezzari.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/peggydavis66-Oklahoma-City.jpg)

  The Best Bike Trails: The Oklahoma River Trail: https://www.fezzari.com/blog/2012/10/23/the-oklahoma-river-trail/ (https://www.fezzari.com/blog/2012/10/23/the-oklahoma-river-trail/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on December 03, 2018, 10:46:50 am
(https://www.fezzari.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/peggydavis66-Oklahoma-City.jpg)

  The Best Bike Trails: The Oklahoma River Trail: https://www.fezzari.com/blog/2012/10/23/the-oklahoma-river-trail/ (https://www.fezzari.com/blog/2012/10/23/the-oklahoma-river-trail/)

I've ridden that trail, and several of the others in OKC.   OKC has a good, and growing, bike trail system with access from the OK river area all the way out to Overholser and (with a just a little street riding) all the way up to Hefner.   I think there are about 90 miles of dedicated bike trails/paths in the OKC area.  Good stuff.

Tulsa also has a very nice, and also growing, set of bike trails running from Bixby in the South, all along the river and the Creek Turnpike, out to Sand Springs and on up all the way to Skiatook.  Not sure on exact miles, but I know it is somewhere a little over 100 miles of dedicated bike lanes/trails.  Good Stuff.

The two major metro areas have active and growing biking communities, and it shows in the support by both cities.  This is one area where OK is above-average in the US, and as an avid cyclist myself, one thing I can brag about to others.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on December 03, 2018, 11:00:45 am
I've met people from outside the state who mentioned Tulsa Tough and the bike community when I mentioned I was from Tulsa. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on December 03, 2018, 11:07:01 am
Per Google, Oklahoma City to Winstar World Casino - 126 miles

Other Casinos closer to Oklahoma City than Winstar:

River Spirit/Margaritaville Casino - 107 miles
Hard Rock Tulsa - 118 miles
Osage Casino Tulsa - 110 miles

And basically all the other Tulsa area casinos.


You forgot the ones that are actually in the OKC metro with distances from downtown:

Remington Park - OKC (7.8 miles), it's a racino so horse betting and slots only, no table games (the casino rules make no sense)
Riverwind - Norman (21.9 miles)
Newcastle - Newcastle (19 miles)
Grand Casino -  Shawnee (28.5 miles)
Lucky Star - Concho (35 miles)
Firelake - Shawnee (38 miles)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on December 03, 2018, 11:08:41 am
I've met people from outside the state who mentioned Tulsa Tough and the bike community when I mentioned I was from Tulsa. 

I hadn't heard of Tulsa Tough until a few years ago and have been at Cry Baby Hill every year since. It's a great event!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on December 03, 2018, 11:24:23 am
I hadn't heard of Tulsa Tough until a few years ago and have been at Cry Baby Hill every year since. It's a great event!

The Tough is an awesome event.  It's on the Pro Road Tour, and by-far the biggest (in terms of prestige) in this part of the US.   


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 03, 2018, 01:56:45 pm
Major universities in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area:

(http://city-sentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Meinders-School-of-Business-495x382.jpg)

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JZwfuuA3chE/Vdu_vnIZRbI/AAAAAAAAAh8/IgtdqYrzi9k/w1280-h720-p-k-no-nu/The%2BCouncil%2Bof%2BIndependent%2BColleges%253A%2BHistoric%2BCampus%2BArchitecture%2B...-730437.jpg)
Oklahoma City University
Official website:  https://www.okcu.edu/ (https://www.okcu.edu/)


(https://www.teamusa.org/-/media/USA_Taekwondo/Images/2015-06---June/University-of-Central-Oklahoma.jpg?h=375&la=en&w=600&hash=718C3459AA824F556A5002199A2B2ED59AB219EE) (http://edmondlifeandleisure.com/clients/edmondlifeandleisure/10-11-2016-10-16-25-AM-1911065.jpg)

University of Central Oklahoma
Official website:  https://www.uco.edu/ (https://www.uco.edu/)


(https://www.krwolfe.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/university-of-oklahoma.jpg) (https://ahscougarcall.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/image.gif)

(http://chuckoates.com/National_Weather_Center/NWC-1_files/image002.jpg)

National Weather Service University of Oklahoma:  http://www.ou.edu/nwc (http://www.ou.edu/nwc)
(https://media.ussportscamps.com/media/images/lacrosse/nike/facilities/Oklahoma-University-Aerial-Nike-Camp.JPG)

University of Oklahoma
Official website: https://www.ou.edu/ (https://www.ou.edu/)
 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on December 03, 2018, 02:38:31 pm
Hey Laramie,  what is your point on this last post?  Just rubbing it in that OU is near OKC and Tulsa doesn't have a major public university?   It's an active topic in other threads, I just don't know why you are posting these pics here?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 03, 2018, 03:22:28 pm
Hey Laramie,  what is your point on this last post?  Just rubbing it in that OU is near OKC and Tulsa doesn't have a major public university?   It's an active topic in other threads, I just don't know why you are posting these pics here?



He is just highlighting the inequities of left side vs right side of the state.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on December 03, 2018, 06:33:04 pm
https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/03/ikea-moves-into-manhattan-with-its-first-city-center-store-in-2019.html

Interesting read.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on December 03, 2018, 10:40:36 pm
From all Laramie's postings one would think he is in charge of the Chamber of Commerce or at least the Visitor's and Convention Bureau for that place at the other end of the turnpike. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 04, 2018, 05:25:32 pm

   Streetcar celebration:  https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/lifestyle/streetcar-celebration/?utm_source=ChamberT&utm_medium=Social&utm_term=IntVeloCity&utm_content=streetcar-12-4-18 (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/lifestyle/streetcar-celebration/?utm_source=ChamberT&utm_medium=Social&utm_term=IntVeloCity&utm_content=streetcar-12-4-18)

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/StreetcarDSC_8257.jpg)
Streetcar stopped on Sheridan Avenue in front of the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

Experienced another opportunity on Monday, December 2 to follow one of the Bermuda Green streetcars from Hudson Avenue north to Sheridan east toward Bricktown.

Quote
Mark Dec. 14 on your calendars because it will be a historic day for our city as the Oklahoma City Streetcar officially opens for business. The celebration will start at 10 a.m. in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City at the Business District Platform in the plaza of Leadership Square...  ...The grand opening weekend will be full of live entertainment, special promotions and family activities. Also don’t forget that the streetcar will be free through January 5!

There are planned developments being submitted to the city along the streetcar route;  many cities have seen recent developments planned along their streetcar routes.  Global Payments cited the streetcar route on Broadway Avenue and the YMCA parking garage as a reason they relocated some of their operations from Atlanta to OKC.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 04, 2018, 05:45:53 pm
   Historic Oklahoma City site set for facelift: https://kfor.com/2018/12/04/historic-oklahoma-city-site-set-for-facelift/ (https://kfor.com/2018/12/04/historic-oklahoma-city-site-set-for-facelift/)

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2018/12/lincoln-pool.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&w=400&h=225&crop=1) (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-81fb2dd08217ff83932baca4ab77f90f.jpg)

"Gardner-Tanenbaum is responsible for historic remodels such as Park Harvey and The Classen. It is looking to do the same off Lincoln near NE 50th.
113 luxury apartments are planned for the former hotel space. Over 200,000 square feet of remodeled office space is slated for the building to the north...
...The development is counting on tenants from the OU Health complex to the south on Lincoln Blvd."

The Oklahoma State Capital Complex is just over a mile south of the Lincoln Plaza redevelopment.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 04, 2018, 06:17:22 pm
From all Laramie's postings one would think he is in charge of the Chamber of Commerce or at least the Visitor's and Convention Bureau for that place at the other end of the turnpike. 


Ya gotta admit...showing some nice stuff, though!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on December 05, 2018, 12:13:23 pm

Ya gotta admit...showing some nice stuff, though!


Very true. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 07, 2018, 01:16:08 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/icons/maps3.png)

(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/5220553/taft_stadium.jpg?cb=1543960713)
Taft Stadium does not meet FIFA regulation requirements.

A new stadium for Oklahoma City Energy FC to replace Taft Stadium is one of the proposed initiatives for the 4th Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) plan.  Energy FC ownership has plans to become apart of MLS (Major League Soccer). MLS requires its franchise to have a venue with a minimum seating capacity of 18,500.


Quote
“This is our time to write the next chapter in Oklahoma City’s story,” Holt said in a MAPS video posted on the city’s website. “It is time to talk about MAPS 4 and dream big again.”

Since October, Holt said he has received a little over 1,000 ideas from community members, and while an advisory board exists to review MAPS 3 projects, no such board has been created to assess ideas for MAPS 4 so far.  

Oklahoma Gazette - Drawing MAPS:   https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/drawing-maps/Content?oid=5220549 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/drawing-maps/Content?oid=5220549)

Quote
The city’s Better Streets, Safer City initiative launched in 2017 and the temporary sales tax incorporated through the project will expire in Spring 2020, Holt said.

“We’ll dedicate 2019 to planning and 2020 to executing our plans,” Holt said. “2020 is right around the corner.”  

Professional Football Spring Leagues:

Freedom Football League - FFL -- has been created by former NFL players, including Ricky Williams, Terrell Owens and Simeon Rice, with the intention of "reimagining, rethinking, reinventing and reforming" the game...

FFL - Freedom Football League:  http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25470052/former-nfl-players-plan-launch-freedom-football-league (http://"http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25470052/former-nfl-players-plan-launch-freedom-football-league")

Quote
The league did not say when it would begin play, though it did say the first 10 teams would be the San Diego Warriors, Oklahoma City Power, Portland Progress, Texas Revolution, Ohio Players, Florida Strong, Birmingham Kings, St. Louis Independence, Connecticut Underground and Oakland Panthers

Also there's the XFL, AAF

FFL:  http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25470052/former-nfl-players-plan-launch-freedom-football-league (http://"http://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/25470052/former-nfl-players-plan-launch-freedom-football-league")

(https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/warehouse/getpubliccontent?contentId=d1abd26c-2425-4f35-a5f2-44ce483cc893)

Other uses for a stadium would include OSSAA state high school football & soccer playoffs, concerts & large gatherings.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 08, 2018, 10:29:07 am

Oklahoma City Bus Rapid Transit wins federal grant:

Quote
The $14.3 million BUILD grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation was announced Thursday — along with grants to Tulsa and the Port of Muskogee — by Sen. Jim Inhofe.

The bus rapid transit line will go up N Classen Boulevard to the Northwest Expressway, then out the Northwest Expressway past Penn Square to Meridian Avenue.--Oklahoman, William Crum, 12/08/2018

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-c90a75663919512b489a29056ec603f0.jpg)
Oklahoma City this week was awarded a federal grant to develop a bus rapid transit line between downtown and the northwest side. [The Oklahoman archives


Quote
Transit Director Jason Ferbrache said the federal grant is to be matched with $10.8 million in bond funds and $2.2 million in sales tax proceeds, both approved by voters last year.

General obligation bond package:  The 10-year, $967 million bond package invests in streets, police and fire facilities, parks and other basic needs. It succeeds the 2007 bond program, which is almost complete.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 09, 2018, 02:11:20 pm
Oklahoma City Intermodal Transit Hub Center

(http://trn.trains.com/~/media/images/railroad-news/news-wire/2016-and-prior/2014/01/okc-1.jpg?h=400&la=en&mw=600&w=600) (http://trn.trains.com/~/media/images/railroad-news/news-wire/2016-and-prior/2014/01/okc-2.jpg?h=400&la=en&mw=600&w=600)
This 8,000-square-foot depot will house offices & businesses; its main purpose is to be the intermodal transportation hub for people to catch a train, board the OKC streetcar, rent a bicycle or get on the bus.

State agency awards contract Santa Fe Station improvements:  https://newsok.com/article/5596963/state-agency-awards-contract-santa-fe-station-improvements (https://newsok.com/article/5596963/state-agency-awards-contract-santa-fe-station-improvements)

Old Oklahoma City train depot turns into new transportation hub:  https://kfor.com/2017/07/31/old-oklahoma-city-train-depot-turns-into-new-transportation-hub/ (https://kfor.com/2017/07/31/old-oklahoma-city-train-depot-turns-into-new-transportation-hub/)

Oklahoma City Union Station Depot

(https://ggwash.org/images/posts/201511-162121-13.jpg)
Oklahoma City Union Station. Photo from Raymond Woods on Flickr.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-e13a4fda147897720019cfea091e729d.jpg)
The passenger waiting area with its 25-foot-high ceiling was restored in 1978 by Thurman Magbee and can be cleared of office pods added in the center of the area so that it can be returned to its original appearance. [Photo provided by the Oklahoma Historical Society]


 Union Train Station should be prime candidate for MAPS 3 surplus: https://newsok.com/article/5604646/union-train-station-should-be-prime-candidate-for-maps-3-surplus (https://newsok.com/article/5604646/union-train-station-should-be-prime-candidate-for-maps-3-surplus)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 11, 2018, 11:19:11 am

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention112418a.jpg)

Seeing those cranes stationed all around the construction of the convention center, Midtown Broadway, ASA Hall of Fame Stadium's upper deck expansion, OU Medical Center's new tower, and the future projects proposed near the Capital  reminds me of vultures eating away at the decay and dying.

It's also a grim reminder of what has happened to our historic venues.

Life in OKC is very difficult; especially if you have to navigate from one area of town to the other.  They have now started on some of the $1 billion streets & infrastructure bond projects passed in 2017:  https://www.okc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2423/18 (https://www.okc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2423/18)  


It's as though we are revisiting the toil and turmoil OKC experienced downtown with Devon Tower & Project 180 construction later followed by the streetcar once all of that was completed.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Rattle Trap on December 11, 2018, 03:27:49 pm
Quote
Life in OKC is very difficult; especially if you have to navigate from one area of town to the other.  They have now started on some of the $1 billion streets & infrastructure bond projects passed in 2017:  https://www.okc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/2423/18 


It's as though we are revisiting the toil and turmoil OKC experienced downtown with Devon Tower & Project 180 construction later followed by the streetcar once all of that was completed.

Yeah my wife is finishing up her last year at OU and I visit her every weekend. The drive on I35 from downtown to Norman is an absolute nightmare. Not to mention the stretch of I35 just before the Turner Turnpike exit near Frontier City, where they've had two of the three lanes blocked off for several months now for God knows what. OKC is a nice city, but the amount of traffic they have for their size is ridiculous and makes me never want to go back :o.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 11, 2018, 08:03:12 pm
Yeah my wife is finishing up her last year at OU and I visit her every weekend. The drive on I35 from downtown to Norman is an absolute nightmare. Not to mention the stretch of I35 just before the Turner Turnpike exit near Frontier City, where they've had two of the three lanes blocked off for several months now for God knows what. OKC is a nice city, but the amount of traffic they have for their size is ridiculous and makes me never want to go back :o.


I work alone; however you  :)  have experienced our growing pains.  8)

(https://www.ok.gov/odot/images/I235Rendering_web.jpg)
The federal government is paying for 90 percent of the current work, so it will not be affected by recent budget cuts from the state Legislature. In June, lawmakers decided to divert about $150 million in ODOT funding to help close a hole in next year’s budget. Agency officials warned that delays in the department’s eight-year construction plan are likely if those cuts hold. The department’s long-term scheduling and budgeting process will be complete in October.--Oklahoma Journal Record--Brian Brus The Journal Record, August 7, 2017

Subsequent phases will cost about $97 million total. In 2019, I-235 will be reconstructed further north to NW 63rd Street. Also that year, flyover ramps and bridges will be built for northbound I-235 to westbound I-44 and eastbound I-44 to northbound Broadway Extension. And in 2020, westbound I-44 to northbound I-235 will be reconstructed. >:(

ODOT BNSF RAIL BRIDGE MOVE:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQAdbv02Kj8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQAdbv02Kj8)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-3f4f649d80c242b3cf192be14c9f0ff1.jpg)
The proposed conversion of a railroad bridge over the Oklahoma River could include creation of pedestrian viewing areas as shown in this rendering by ADG. [Provided]

An abandoned railroad bridge is being eyed for conversion into a pedestrian crossing over the Oklahoma River as development continues along both the north and south shores:  https://newsok.com/article/5543026/proposal-suggests-oklahoma-river-pedestrian-bridge (https://newsok.com/article/5543026/proposal-suggests-oklahoma-river-pedestrian-bridge)

Oklahoma City passed the Better Streets, Safer City bond & MAPS initiative tax extension in September 2017.  Funds for this project were included in the 2017 General Obligation Bond election.  

Voters authorized city leaders to raise and spend an estimated $1.5 billion over the next decade for municipal needs—primarily public safety and streets—in the Sept. 12 election. Here are five takeaways from election day:  https://newsok.com/article/5564266/5-takeaways-from-oklahoma-citys-bond-sales-tax-election (https://newsok.com/article/5564266/5-takeaways-from-oklahoma-citys-bond-sales-tax-election)

Funding is in place for this project to come to fruition.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 12, 2018, 10:33:17 am

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland072718d.jpg)

Groundbreaking held for Oklahoma City new Heartland Headquarters (Global Payments, Atlanta):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvWEfSKaFiw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvWEfSKaFiw)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on December 12, 2018, 11:19:11 am
That's a nice get for OKC and a good looking building.  We need more out-of-state companies expanding here. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 12, 2018, 01:11:55 pm
That's a nice get for OKC and a good looking building.  We need more out-of-state companies expanding here. 

You're going to see more companies expand and/or relocate into Oklahoma.  Oklahoma's Quality Jobs Program appears on the surface to be a big give-away.  The U.S. economy is ripe for corporate expansion--these companies are looking for greener pastures.

You will see Tulsa & Oklahoma City benefit from companies who want to expand their operations into other areas where you have two growing airports in Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) & Tulsa International (TUL); cities where you have clean air and a growing population of young & well-educated professionals.   

You don't have the crowded expressways/highways that you see in places like Atlanta, Dallas, Denver & Houston.  Yet, look for more investments by OKC-Tulsa in quality of life venues like The Gathering Place and Riversport Rapids; also in sports options.   I still say Tulsa is a better option for MLS soccer or NHL ice hockey than OKC in that you don't have an existing NBA franchise to compete for sports dollars.   A team in either city would be a big draw from the other; therefore you could make a case that OKC/Tulsa are one catchment area.  You would have 3,000-5,000 season ticket holders from OKC who would have no trouble taking the 91 mile Turner Turnpike drive.

Let's not forget about future  Passenger Rail between OKC-Tulsa under intense study:   https://www.normantranscript.com/news/passenger-rail-will-return-connecting-tulsa-to-okc/article_c99c53b2-763d-11e8-b116-ab1352191997.html (https://www.normantranscript.com/news/passenger-rail-will-return-connecting-tulsa-to-okc/article_c99c53b2-763d-11e8-b116-ab1352191997.html) 
http://www.newson6.com/story/38483798/kansas-rail-company-seeks-passenger-train-service-between-okc-tulsa (http://www.newson6.com/story/38483798/kansas-rail-company-seeks-passenger-train-service-between-okc-tulsa)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 12, 2018, 02:25:10 pm
Oklahoma City MAPS III Convention Center updates-progress.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention121118a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention121118b.jpg)
Above pics via OKCTalk Forum
 
Structural Steel goes up for our new convention center:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15DRa45cG28 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=15DRa45cG28)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: patric on December 12, 2018, 05:19:28 pm
You would have 3,000-5,000 season ticket holders from OKC who would have no trouble taking the 91 mile Turner Turnpike drive.

Let's not forget about future  Passenger Rail between OKC-Tulsa under intense study:

A TUL to OKC maglev with affordable ticket prices seems about as likely as Tulsa getting any passenger rail on the promise it will become a reality if we bankroll OKC first.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on December 13, 2018, 11:14:07 am
I was down in OKC yesterday near the capitol and took the opportunity to drive down through the Midtown area, particularly the area along Broadway near 10th street.   I haven't been down there in quite a while, and have to say I was impressed.  There are several breweries within just a few blocks (most were closed when I was there, but I did bring back some great beers from Prairie that you can't get in Tulsa), and some really eclectic restaurants and stores.   I'm thinking it's worth a return trip when I have time to do a better tour of the area and hit all the breweries.  Overall, thumbs up.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on December 14, 2018, 09:21:54 am
I always enjoy visiting my tax dollars whenever I'm in that area.  ;D


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on December 14, 2018, 10:42:15 am
I always enjoy visiting my tax dollars whenever I'm in that area.  ;D

Right...... All of OKC owes Tulsans for everything.   Get off your cross for Christ’s sake.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 14, 2018, 11:19:15 am
(https://i.imgur.com/D0yVmsi.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk Forum by poster Goldfire.

Streetcar rides are free today December 14 thru January 5 for the historic streetcar rollout:  https://www.oklahoman.com/hitting-the-rails-oklahoma-city-set-to-inaugurate-streetcar-service/article/5617688 (https://www.oklahoman.com/hitting-the-rails-oklahoma-city-set-to-inaugurate-streetcar-service/article/5617688)

Quote
After a rigorous safety review, two years of construction and six months of testing and training, the Oklahoma City Streetcar is set to announce, "All aboard."
...Transit officials prepared to accommodate 10,000 to 15,000 riders on opening day, based on averages in other cities, and up to 50,000 for the opening weekend.

Rides will be free the first three weeks.

Mayor Holt discusses the OKC streetcar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyqURy_wKeA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zyqURy_wKeA)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on December 14, 2018, 11:25:21 am
Right...... All of OKC owes Tulsans for everything.   Get off your cross for Christ’s sake.

(https://media.giphy.com/media/vk7VesvyZEwuI/giphy.gif)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 14, 2018, 02:36:20 pm
(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/07/84/b2/5c/tower.jpg) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/2e/Oklahoma_City_montage.png/375px-Oklahoma_City_montage.png) (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/44/Oklahoma_City_Streetcar_on_Hudson_Ave_near_5th_during_testing_%282018%29.jpg/330px-Oklahoma_City_Streetcar_on_Hudson_Ave_near_5th_during_testing_%282018%29.jpg) 

New Oklahoma City video - Take a Picture, OKC! Annual Meeting video 12-13-18:
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os8v2P46lME (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=os8v2P46lME)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 14, 2018, 09:21:18 pm


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/sq500-73c0d09953e0559f4991ff2f573793e8.jpg) (https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/4942336/streetcar_interior.jpg?cb=1541537223)

OKC Streetcar Service Begins:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHpcBYyvKxg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHpcBYyvKxg)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DuZsOLmWkAAK9_P.jpg)

(https://assets.simpleviewcms.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_300,q_75,w_720/v1/clients/oklahoma/streetcar_blog_1_f5bcd002-ed53-4ca2-bb43-699741ef78ff.jpg)

Originally operated from 1903 to 1947 
(http://www.acogok.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/streetcar.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-679679205f9a689a72b396723d872064.jpg)
 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 18, 2018, 03:53:56 pm

AutoZone Mega hub facility to open in south Oklahoma City:

Quote
The nation's leading retailer of automotive replacement parts and accessories has been expanding rapidly and deploying large hubs all of the country to supplement and supply its 5,000+ stores...     ...In the case of the Oklahoma City hub, the company will take a portion of the old Target space at SW 44th and S. Western, and the remainder of the more than 43,000 square feet of leased space will essentially be a warehouse for stocking parts and supplying other regional stores and customers – both retail and commercial – in a expedient, direct manner.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/autozone081118.jpg)
Progress on the AutoZone Megahub facility, pic via OKCTalk Forum:  http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=463-AutoZone-to-open-first-OK-mega-hub-in-South-OKC (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=463-AutoZone-to-open-first-OK-mega-hub-in-South-OKC)

AutoZone has approximately 20 AutoZone Mega Hubs in the U.S.; this will be the first hub located in the State of Oklahoma constructed in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City is current home to an O’reilly-Ozark Automotive Warehouse


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on December 18, 2018, 04:20:05 pm
AutoZone Mega hub facility to open in south Oklahoma City:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/autozone081118.jpg)
Progress on the AutoZone Megahub facility, pic via OKCTalk Forum:  http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=463-AutoZone-to-open-first-OK-mega-hub-in-South-OKC (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=463-AutoZone-to-open-first-OK-mega-hub-in-South-OKC)

AutoZone has approximately 20 AutoZone Mega Hubs in the U.S.; this will be the first hub located in the State of Oklahoma constructed in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City is current home to an O’reilly-Ozark Automotive Warehouse

You just posted about a super sized AutoZone store?

Seriously?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 18, 2018, 04:43:11 pm
You just posted about a super sized AutoZone store?

Seriously?


Distribution center.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 19, 2018, 10:42:45 am


  700 West site plan for NW 4 and Shartel Avenue is shown. Gardner Architects.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-6e84f5eafedcbda8ccfe0fae0eb8b78b.jpg)


The Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority is set to vote Wednesday on whether to choose Colony Partners to develop a mix of 138 apartments and 4,000 square feet of retail as part of its proposed $22 million “700 West" plan at NW 4 and Shartel Avenue.

Quote
The proposal includes a mix of affordable and market rate housing, with rental rates starting at $675 a month for qualified tenants.

 
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-42ed6e4c7ab2f7980b363b590fb626b6.jpg)

Oklahoman:  https://www.oklahoman.com/urban-renewal-set-to-select-mix-of-affordable-market-rate-apartments-retail-for-west-downtown/article/5618033 (https://www.oklahoman.com/urban-renewal-set-to-select-mix-of-affordable-market-rate-apartments-retail-for-west-downtown/article/5618033)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on December 19, 2018, 11:23:05 am

 
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-42ed6e4c7ab2f7980b363b590fb626b6.jpg)

I have a few issues with this rendering.

apartment complex with the majority of the spaces empty?
Everyone drives Lambos and Porches?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on December 19, 2018, 02:11:28 pm
They can afford their cars because the rent is so affordable.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 20, 2018, 11:14:56 am
They can afford their cars because the rent is so affordable.

Good point, a hide-a-way for dead beat non paying child support dads who avoid paying the bills for perpetuating the population.  ;D


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 20, 2018, 12:27:23 pm
Oklahoma City INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS A Platform for Action Plan: Opportunity Zone (OZ)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/oppotunity1.jpg)

(https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/m1aG56E8r4UWIxWQ2JYTLKioZ4M=/950x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/high-angle-view-of-cityscape-against-sky-during-sunset-912958726-5b6df57ac9e77c005086b04d.jpg)

What is an opportunity zone: https://newsok.com/article/5610854/oklahoma-city-development-specialists-watching-opportunity-zones (https://newsok.com/article/5610854/oklahoma-city-development-specialists-watching-opportunity-zones)

Quote
Accelerator for America, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit, paid for "Oklahoma City Investment Prospectus: A Platform for Action," for potential capital investors looking to take advantage of Opportunity Zones.

A draft version, prepared by New Localism Advisors working with Oklahoma City leaders, is available online at http://www.acceleratorforamerica.com/opportunity-zones.

Opportunity zones are designed to attract people, partnerships and companies with capital to reinvest. The enticements? Deferred and reduced capital gains taxes if gains from a real estate or stock investment are sent back into development.


It's IMO just shows opportunity plan for development to recruit investors with emphasis on areas to develop potential structures with supported parking in areas suited to brace a particular enterprise.


There is a pdf file that corresponds with this.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on December 20, 2018, 04:28:05 pm
Oklahoma City INVESTMENT PROSPECTUS A Platform for Action Plan: Opportunity Zone (OZ)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/oppotunity1.jpg)

(https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/m1aG56E8r4UWIxWQ2JYTLKioZ4M=/950x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/high-angle-view-of-cityscape-against-sky-during-sunset-912958726-5b6df57ac9e77c005086b04d.jpg)

What is an opportunity zone: https://newsok.com/article/5610854/oklahoma-city-development-specialists-watching-opportunity-zones (https://newsok.com/article/5610854/oklahoma-city-development-specialists-watching-opportunity-zones)


It's IMO just shows opportunity plan for development to recruit investors with emphasis on areas to develop potential structures with supported parking in areas suited to brace a particular enterprise.


There is a pdf file that corresponds with this.


Yeah that's a horrible urban development plan, so hopefully it doesn't look anything like this when it's all finally developed.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on December 21, 2018, 11:06:01 am
Yeah that's a horrible urban development plan, so hopefully it doesn't look anything like this when it's all finally developed.


The parking garage district!

Sounds nice.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 21, 2018, 11:08:12 am
Yeah that's a horrible urban development plan, so hopefully it doesn't look anything like this when it's all finally developed.

Graphics aren't the best to be desired; however these are areas that are open for consideration.   It's more about the capital investments opportunities; hence OZ (opportunity zones).  My biggest surprise is the 4-square block area where the Cox Convention Center sits.   Omni's deal with OKC stipulates that the Cox cannot be used as the city's convention city and that if the Cox site is demolished and a hotel is planned for any part of those four square blocks,  Omni has the first rights to build on that site.

Many OKCTalk posters want the 4-square block site to be broken up to 4 blocks and returned to the original street grid.  The problem with returning it to the original grid is the underground parking which is slightly elevated above the original street grid.   This is the site they found the operations of the Chinese laundry & underground businesses that operated in the 1920s.

Quote
Hundreds inhabit caverns
For decades, the existence of the subterranean Chinatown has been debated, despite Li's research and written records that seem to confirm its reality.

Unlocking the secrets of Oklahoma City's mysterious city: https://newsok.com/article/3069770/unlocking-the-secrets-of-oklahoma-citys-mysterious-city (https://newsok.com/article/3069770/unlocking-the-secrets-of-oklahoma-citys-mysterious-city)

Quote
Bradley Wynn is an urban archaeologist. He's studied downtown Oklahoma City for years. He says in the corner of Robinson and Sheridan, where the Cox Convention Center now stands was a secret underground society for Chinese immigrants, afraid to spend too much time in public because of anti-Chinese sentiments."

Historians recall hidden "Chinese underground" under OKC streets https://okcfox.com/archive/historians-recall-hidden-chinese-underground-under-okc-streets (https://okcfox.com/archive/historians-recall-hidden-chinese-underground-under-okc-streets)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 21, 2018, 12:29:23 pm
The parking garage district!

Sounds nice.

Swake it does sound nice.  Hopefully, there's more to the parking garage district.

OKC has put an added emphasis on parking.   Anytime you build a tower or development, you need to have the parking to support that development.   We've learned that parking garages aren't the most rosy structures--newest garages are being planned with a facade of somewhat that hides the rough look of most parking garages.

Whenever I have to park in downtown OKC the last of my concerns is how the garage looks.  It is what it is, a parking garage--it serves no other purpose unless you've added some retail storefront or lease space to the garage.

Oklahoma City's underground metro concourse despite its shelter advantages has virtually killed the downtown street life interaction you see in most downtowns.  Midtown & Bricktown does possess vibrant street lifes; those areas are why the initial 6.9 miles of streetcar rail loop exits.  Oklahoma City was very ambitious with the streetcar, OKC has 6.9 mile streetcar loop.  Dallas has a 2.45-mile; Kansas City 2 mile loop--both cites plan to expand their streetcar routes.

Metro underground concourse (The Underground):   http://downtownokc.com/underground/ (http://downtownokc.com/underground/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on December 21, 2018, 04:14:56 pm
If there is anywhere in OKC where you wouldn't need a bunch of parking garages it is in this area around Myriad Gardens.  There is a streetcar circulator already operating through there to connect it to the rest of downtown/Midtown/Bricktown.  There will likely be an extension to the OUHSC in the future to connect to jobs over there.  And you have Santa Fe Depot which will be the downtown transit hub for Amtrak (including the existing line to Ft Worth and future lines to Wichita and Tulsa) and commuter rail to Norman and Edmond.  You could actually live and/or work in this area without a car.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 21, 2018, 08:42:11 pm
If there is anywhere in OKC where you wouldn't need a bunch of parking garages it is in this area around Myriad Gardens.  There is a streetcar circulator already operating through there to connect it to the rest of downtown/Midtown/Bricktown.  There will likely be an extension to the OUHSC in the future to connect to jobs over there.  And you have Santa Fe Depot which will be the downtown transit hub for Amtrak (including the existing line to Ft Worth and future lines to Wichita and Tulsa) and commuter rail to Norman and Edmond.  You could actually live and/or work in this area without a car.

My brother lives in Sycamore Square North condominiums he rarely dives his car.  He loves the downtown walk or ride his bike thru town. 

You mentioned the Amtrak or Eastern Flyer that will connect OKC to Tulsa it's doable.   


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on December 21, 2018, 09:31:07 pm
My brother lives in Sycamore Square North condominiums he rarely dives his car.  He loves the downtown walk or ride his bike thru town.  

You mentioned the Amtrak or Eastern Flyer that will connect OKC to Tulsa it's doable.  

I picked up from a Facebook post that the streetcar tracks are starting to cause issues with people on two wheels.  Someone ended up with pins in their ankle from taking a spill on their motorcycle on the tracks.  Quite likely a "Hold my beer and watch this" episode trying to straddle a rail, but be careful around them.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on December 21, 2018, 10:10:10 pm
I picked up from a Facebook post that the streetcar tracks are starting to cause issues with people on two wheels.  Someone ended up with pins in their ankle from taking a spill on their motorcycle on the tracks.  Quite likely a "Hold my beer and watch this" episode trying to straddle a rail, but be careful around them.

People on 2 wheels need to be aware of their surroundings.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on December 22, 2018, 12:37:03 am
People on 2 wheels need to be aware of their surroundings.

Indeed!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on December 22, 2018, 11:33:11 am
Indeed!

Especially those on the wrong side of the road.  Gives all you responsible riders a bad name.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 23, 2018, 12:13:53 pm
I rode the Rosebud Red streetcar yesterday; there were a group of what appeared to be 5 younger adults 16-22 years of age on the downtown bird scooters, one darted right in front of the streetcar near the downtown I-HOP as it was making its turn toward the Bricktown Ballpark. Thankfully, the streetcar was fully loaded moving about 10 mph;  these rail vehicles can't stop on a dime like regular cars.   The young man laughed as he slid to the side bounced over the curb and barely escaped a date with death.

The bird scooters will be a concern once the streetcars aren't at full capacity like the one we rode yesterday (Saturday, 12-22-18) that completed the full 6.9 mile loop.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 24, 2018, 11:40:06 am
Some Oklahoma City Construction updates:

Our city looks like a sea of cranes...

Monarch: among the many new structures rising in Midtown-Automobile Alley on the streetcar loop.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch111718.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch3.jpg)


Broadway Park:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/broadwaypark092218.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/broadwaypark072618.jpg)

New critical data center for Oklahoma Gas & Electric.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/oge122218a.jpg)
Replacement for the Gold facade building below that will become the new convention center garage.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention122218.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk Oklahoma City Development Thread...






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 26, 2018, 10:33:36 pm
Oklahoma City Boulevard

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevard092618c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevard121618d.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevard121618a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/blvd110418a.jpg)

Construction continues on Oklahoma City Boulevard south of the Chesapeake Energy Arena east toward Classen & Western Avenues cross Reno Avenue.


Pics via OKCTalk Forum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 27, 2018, 12:42:59 am
Oklahoma City Hospitals

(http://www.zfiengr.com/assets/images/St._Anthony-Canopy.jpg)

(http://www.adgokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/1-St-Anthony-Surgery-Department-Base-2100x850-1.jpg) (http://)
SAINTS SSM St. Anthonys Hospital

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-2c385d1f92f3e6852a9f1a422ef0410c.jpg)(http://flintco.com/uploads/gallery_images/cache/1542_570x470_crop_p189ra5tf5lth1idi8n71fjoh4n5.jpg?1543350502)
OUHSC  Oklahoma University Health Science Center/Children's Hospital

(https://www.oumedicine.com/images/stephenson-cancer-center/cancer-center-day-web.jpg?sfvrsn=2)
   Stephenson Cancer Center

(http://static-19.sinclairstoryline.com/resources/media/16fcfa56-d9c2-47c1-948e-e5eaaca98300-large16x9_TheOklahomaCityVAHealthFacilitycourtesyoklahoma.va.gov.jpg?1521909006213)
VA Veterans Administrations Hospital


(https://static-13.sinclairstoryline.com/resources/media/07050b50-53a6-4f86-b18d-453703e131f1-large16x9_mercy.JPG?1458252565142)
MERCY HOSPITAL


(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/43/24/58/432458f1ebadced5565789daff2667c4--medical-center-oklahoma-city.jpg) (https://physicianemployerdirectory.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/deaconess-hospital.jpg)
North Hospitals
(http://www.dlolab.com/sites/dlolab.com/files/files/images/psc-locations/INTEGRIS-Southwest-Medical-Plaza.jpg) (https://www.rfidjournal.com/lib/x/a/assets/2008/06/4098-2.jpg)
South Hospitals
INTREGIS HOSPITALS: BAPTIST, DEACONESS & SOUTHWEST MEDICAL PLAZA






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 28, 2018, 05:01:12 pm
OKC planned Roman Catholic Basilica & Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine.  

(http://francklohsen.com/images/resized/images/uploads/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine/blessed-stanley-rother-5_1351_938_80.jpg)
The Blessed Stanley Rother shrine will be built in Oklahoma City off I-35; it will house the relics of the martyr. The OKC archdiocese said it will include a 2,000-seat church, a chapel, ministry, classroom buildings, a museum & a pilgrim center.  The original goals of which is the construction of a shrine for Blessed Stanley Rother, had surpassed its original $65 million goal.  Archbishop Coakley has announced a challenge goal of $80 million given the success of the campaign.


One Church, Many Disciples:  https://archokc.org/rothershrine (https://archokc.org/rothershrine)


Some unique selected OKC catholic churches:

(https://freepressokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/DSC_0025-1.jpg)

Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Thérèse Parish (Little Flower Church)

(http://www.saintandrewdunglacokc.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Nha-tho-776-510.jpg)

St. Andrew Dung-Lac Catholic Church

(https://www.ok.gov/portal/images/photo/corpus%20christi.jpg)

Corpus Christi Catholic Church

(https://s3-media1.fl.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/ARu0_MNQPZfBVRhW9cUOXQ/o.jpg)

St. Eugene Catholic Church






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 01, 2019, 12:13:08 pm
OKC downtown development updates via OKCTalk...

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail123118.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail123118a.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: hello on January 02, 2019, 07:58:47 am
Can this thread get moved to another part of the forum?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 02, 2019, 07:49:22 pm
Can this thread get moved to another part of the forum?


It's renamed OKC stuff....is there an "about OKC" topic that I have missed?



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: sooneralum2012 on January 02, 2019, 09:36:36 pm
Can this thread get moved to another part of the forum?

Who cares man? I enjoy looking at what happens down the turnpike. This forum needs more posters like Laramie, who you know, actually post. It’s activity is embarrassing when compared to okctalk.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: hello on January 03, 2019, 07:50:50 am

It's renamed OKC stuff....is there an "about OKC" topic that I have missed?



I don't know what you missed but this is the Tulsa Development part of the forum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 03, 2019, 11:28:25 am
I don't know what you missed but this is the Tulsa Development part of the forum.


That was sardonic.


But there are some interesting pics coming through....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 03, 2019, 11:56:26 am
  
American Indian Cultural Center & Museum update by the Oklahoma Gazette

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm100718b.jpg)
Construction is set to resume on the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum later this year.

A long-delayed museum will resume construction this year.
By Miguel Rios:  https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/center-staged/Content?oid=5406462 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/center-staged/Content?oid=5406462)

The total construction budget is $37 million, Wilson said. The interiors of the building have not been constructed and some of the exteriors remain unfinished, so ADG is looking for companies that can fully complete the facility.

Located at the crossroads of America, where four interstate highways intersect, the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum is expected to be a world-class facility with hundreds of thousands of visitors a year.

The building was designed nearly 20 years ago, so Pepper Henry and his team looked at the design and made changes to modernize the facility and make it more efficient.

“We took a little time to kind of refresh the interior and rearrange some things to make the user experience much better and to help us on the operational side,” he said.

Lighting systems were upgraded to LED lights, phone booths were removed and replaced with water bottle filler stations, and all major exhibits were moved to one area.

The Mezzanine Level gallery will be for changing and touring exhibitions. The first exhibition will be a 10-year loan from the Smithsonian Institution, which will essentially serve as a time capsule of 100-year-old native items.

“This will be the most important project I’ll work on in my professional career because I’m a member of one of the tribes here in Oklahoma. I’m an enrolled member of the Kaw Nation; I’m also Muscogee Creek. Every one of us that works here is an enrolled member of a tribe in Oklahoma and this means so much to us because we’re telling our story,” he said. “I’ll never have an experience like this anywhere else where this means so much personally.”

Construction on the cultural center is set to resume sometime around March.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: RecycleMichael on January 03, 2019, 02:25:44 pm
Please stop posting about OKC on a Tulsa forum.

Enough is enough.


Title: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: AdamsHall on January 03, 2019, 03:18:58 pm
If we are taking a poll, I vote that Laramie keep posting the OKC stuff in the thread now titled "OKC stuff."  I guess I don't see what the big deal is because I am not aware of any requirement to open threads, and this thread has been conveniently titled "OKC stuff," which takes about 98% of the mystery out of it.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on January 03, 2019, 04:31:52 pm
I don't mind there being an OKC Development thread, maybe a mod can just change the name?  Keep all the OKC stuff in one spot though.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on January 03, 2019, 05:30:25 pm
I don't mind there being an OKC Development thread, maybe a mod can just change the name?  Keep all the OKC stuff in one spot though.

I don't mind either.   But not in the "Talk about Tulsa > Development and New Business" subforum.

Hell, OKCtalk has Tulsa stuff separate.  Maybe have a section specifically for non Tulsa development?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasaurus Rex on January 04, 2019, 08:33:45 am
I don't mind OKC stuff in here somewhere. But why does it have to be in the "Downtown Development Overview" thread? I agree with suggestions to keep it all in one OKC thread. I rarely make it over to OKCtalk so it's useful to have this here.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on January 04, 2019, 09:51:50 am
A few suggestions:

  • Rename "The Burbs" to "Other Oklahoma localities"
   This thread would go here
  • Combine "Restaurant Reviews" & "Other Local Reviews"
  • Rename "Non-Tulsa Discussions" to "water cooler"
  • Move "Local & State Politics" to "water cooler"
  • REMOVE "National & International Politics"


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on January 04, 2019, 10:00:39 am
Please stop posting about OKC on a Tulsa forum.

Enough is enough.

If you don’t want to see stuff about OKC, you could probably save yourself a lot of trouble by just avoiding a thread titled “OKC Stuff”...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 04, 2019, 03:14:31 pm
A few suggestions:

  • Rename "The Burbs" to "Other Oklahoma localities"
   This thread would go here
  • Combine "Restaurant Reviews" & "Other Local Reviews"
  • Rename "Non-Tulsa Discussions" to "water cooler"
  • Move "Local & State Politics" to "water cooler"
  • REMOVE "National & International Politics"



The Burbs isn't all bad...after all, OKC in reality is just a suburb of Tulsa!  Tulsa is the main, more important 'show'.   Quaint little bedroom community at the other end of the turnpike..l.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 05, 2019, 12:22:17 pm

Oklahoma City Streetcars will be free to ride through Feb. 1, Embark transit said Friday.

Plans had been to collect the $1 fare beginning Sunday.



(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-19158c56cf3fc35cf000ae70f97d2131.jpg)
Saturday, January 5, 2019 | by William Crum/Oklahoman


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 05, 2019, 12:39:56 pm
Public possibilities

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-73be6ed31af06074950d091a02138a12.jpg)
A park and development over Interstate 235 between downtown and the Oklahoma Health Center is one of several "big sky" ideas that continues to be discussed by some civic leaders. [Rendering by Miles Associates Architects]

Q: In one of last year's chats, another reader asked about adding taller buildings to the skyline. I think your answer was to improve education and then we could expect half a dozen skyscrapers. What exactly would this look like? A: Start with the basics and go from there. It's 2019 and we should not accept any school not having a complete sidewalk connection to nearby neighborhoods. We should realize that there are forces out there who claim they are against more funding for schools because of perceived waste and I've seen and heard these same folks talking about how they really want to do away with public education.

Realize that and understand that's where they are coming from, right or wrong.



If we are to continue having a public school system, then make teacher salaries among the highest in the country to attract the best talent. Look at housing down payment assistance as a way to draw talent in the same way Tulsa is offering $10,000 per person to relocate to their city (hint: having a more targeting effort aimed at public school teachers will go a lot farther in impact).
Expand and improve after-school programs for kids. Get CareerTech to open visible branches at inner-city schools. Put your best people, your best resources, at the worst performing schools.

These efforts will attract the people who build cities.


Saturday, January 5, 2019 | by Steve Lackmeyer/Oklahoman
https://www.oklahoman.com/potential-maps-4-projects-but-not-a-new-downtown-arena-emerging-with-vote-possible-next-winter/article/5619441 (https://www.oklahoman.com/potential-maps-4-projects-but-not-a-new-downtown-arena-emerging-with-vote-possible-next-winter/article/5619441)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasaurus Rex on January 05, 2019, 12:47:04 pm
I admire your spite


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 05, 2019, 01:58:25 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-df4df3a3cf917488e3d0871a1ad62ae1.jpg)
Construction is underway to make improvements to the eastern end of the Turner Turnpike, which include widening it to six lanes and replacing old bridges.
[Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman]

Oklahoma's two major metropolitan areas are on the verge of break-out; each city with its own identity. The Turner Turnpike is the fastest vehicle link between both cities.  There are preliminary plans to address the future of rail transit between both cities who have growth in suburbs like Broken Arrow, Jenks, Bixby, Owasso, Norman, Edmond, Moore & Midwest City.

We have two major growing airports in Will Rogers World & Tulsa International; this unites us closer together.

Our moderate growth gives us time to plan ahead for the future, make rationale decisions that will affect the future of our communities.

Oklahoma has the water resources in our lakes, streams, rivers & reservoirs that will make us attractive to corporations, companies & businesses looking to relocate in a state that provides an urban environment braced for families & young professionals.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 06, 2019, 01:53:41 pm

Oklahoma has the water resources in our lakes, streams, rivers & reservoirs that will make us attractive to corporations, companies & businesses looking to relocate in a state that provides an urban environment braced for families & young professionals.



Maybe those water resources are why we have been in drought for so much of the last few years....we don't have water for "major expansion" of industry. 



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 06, 2019, 02:05:29 pm


Maybe those water resources are why we have been in drought for so much of the last few years....we don't have water for "major expansion" of industry. 



Not aware this was a problem.  Please name the project(s) in particular that wanted major expansion in Oklahoma where they cited a lack of water resources as a decision for major expansion?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 07, 2019, 03:45:55 pm
Not aware this was a problem.  Please name the project(s) in particular that wanted major expansion in Oklahoma where they cited a lack of water resources as a decision for major expansion?


No specifics other than the general casting around looking for water that OKC is involved in.  In particular, trying to steal it from the Native Americans...again.  And the ongoing issues keeping the lakes full during the last few years.  The water for new industry comes from the same drought stricken places that agriculture and recreation are all vying for.  We can do some measured expansion, but if we "suddenly" - as in 10 or 15 years - doubled the industry (and accompanying population, infrastructure, and recreational needs) in this state, there would be issues.

We have doubled our population in the last 40 years or so (+/-) and water is available as needed now, but the 'cushion' is dramatically smaller than the past.

Add to the fact that groundwater is being contaminated at an increasing rate, there will be spot shortages.   Norman - gets about 40% of it's water from wells and they have had to shutdown at least 3 of their wells in just the last few years - arsenic and other contaminants.   One of the things in their 2060 plan is reuse of water.  Treat it, send it to homes, then gather it back through the sewer treatment plant and put it back into Lake Thunderbird to go through treatment/use again.   (Local nickname - Lake Dirtybird.)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 08, 2019, 06:04:49 pm
This may be where you obtained the term steal; Oklahoma has water resources; thanks to the late Robert S. Kerr who served as U.S. Senator representing Oklahoma from 1949 to 1963.  One of his major projects:  The McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System, a series of 18 locks and dams making the waterway navigable from the Tulsa Port of Catoosa to the Mississippi River.

Here are the alternatives; sell water to Oklahoma City or to Fort Worth-Arlington.


  
Quote
It's worth noting that this debate has been ongoing since 2007, when Oklahoma City raised the prospect of appropriating water from Sardis Lake. Opponents all along have argued that solid scientific data has been lacking, or that city officials are looking to “steal” from those who live in the southeastern part of the state, where rivers and lakes are vital to tourism and economic development. This legal challenge is one more attempt to plug the future pipeline.

Another challenge to OKC water deal:  https://newsok.com/article/5577351/another-challenge-to-okc-water-deal (https://newsok.com/article/5577351/another-challenge-to-okc-water-deal)

(http://www.mossyoakproperties.com/Images/Properties/19424/Resized/7ada1cf7-3e66-4fc0-8003-74ea97d2a8f5.jpg)  (https://d1pk12b7bb81je.cloudfront.net/generated/adaptive-fit-in/800x800/okdataengine/appmedia/images/25/25759/sardis.jpg) (https://journalrecord.com/files/2010/08/sardis2-300x252.jpg)
Sardis Lake is located 5 miles north of Clayton, Oklahoma, along Oklahoma Highway 2 in Choctaw Country in southeastern Oklahoma. The lake covers 14,360 acres, with 117 miles of shoreline.

Quote
"This is a major victory for Oklahoma, with all nine justices agreeing with our argument that Texas does not have the right to come into Oklahoma and take our water," Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt said. "This unanimous decision will affect all western states governed by multistate water compacts."

Supreme Court sides with Oklahoma in water fight  https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/13/supreme-court-water-texas-oklahoma-compacts/2382849/ (https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/06/13/supreme-court-water-texas-oklahoma-compacts/2382849/)

Do you realized that Oklahoma population in 1930 was 2.4 million; in 1960 it rose to 2.3 million.  It took Oklahoma 30 years to recover from the results of the Depression and the infamous Dust Bowl eras in which an estimated 400,000 people left the state.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 08, 2019, 08:09:12 pm
More Oklahoma City Midtown development

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace010818a.jpg)

https://www.kriyahotels.com/our-hotels/

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/townplacesuites010819.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk development forum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 08, 2019, 08:41:25 pm

No specifics other than the general casting around looking for water that OKC is involved in.  In particular, trying to steal it from the Native Americans...again.  And the ongoing issues keeping the lakes full during the last few years.  The water for new industry comes from the same drought stricken places that agriculture and recreation are all vying for.  We can do some measured expansion, but if we "suddenly" - as in 10 or 15 years - doubled the industry (and accompanying population, infrastructure, and recreational needs) in this state, there would be issues.

We have doubled our population in the last 40 years or so (+/-) and water is available as needed now, but the 'cushion' is dramatically smaller than the past.

Add to the fact that groundwater is being contaminated at an increasing rate, there will be spot shortages.   Norman - gets about 40% of it's water from wells and they have had to shutdown at least 3 of their wells in just the last few years - arsenic and other contaminants.   One of the things in their 2060 plan is reuse of water.  Treat it, send it to homes, then gather it back through the sewer treatment plant and put it back into Lake Thunderbird to go through treatment/use again.   (Local nickname - Lake Dirtybird.)




According to this USGS report, arsenic and hexavalent chromium are naturally occurring.  I'm not sure if you were insinuating that the ground water was being contaminated by industry or human activity.  Pretty fascinating read if you have not already. 

https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2005/3111/

There is very little doubt that at least the western half of the United States is going to have to get its act together on water management and very soon.  We were within weeks of losing our water supply after the Ute Park Fire last summer.  Cimarroncita Reservoir on Philmont Scout Ranch is our primary water source which is all mountain-shed water.  It was about depleted before the monsoons finally came in mid-July due to the severe drought here last year.  With all the ash and other byproducts of the fire washing into the Cimarron River which is our secondary water source, releasing water from Eagle Nest Lake would have been of no benefit so we would have been seriously screwed had we not gotten the rains in July and August!

Much better winter so far with plenty of snow in the high country and down here as well.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on January 08, 2019, 09:19:23 pm
More Oklahoma City Midtown development

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace010818a.jpg)

https://www.kriyahotels.com/our-hotels/

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/townplacesuites010819.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk development forum.
Sorry Laramie, but that building is UGLY.  Is that the best the developers can come up with?  I don't see any retail on the ground floor to encourage locals. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 09, 2019, 11:28:28 am
According to this USGS report, arsenic and hexavalent chromium are naturally occurring.  I'm not sure if you were insinuating that the ground water was being contaminated by industry or human activity.  Pretty fascinating read if you have not already. 

https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/2005/3111/

There is very little doubt that at least the western half of the United States is going to have to get its act together on water management and very soon.  We were within weeks of losing our water supply after the Ute Park Fire last summer.  Cimarroncita Reservoir on Philmont Scout Ranch is our primary water source which is all mountain-shed water.  It was about depleted before the monsoons finally came in mid-July due to the severe drought here last year.  With all the ash and other byproducts of the fire washing into the Cimarron River which is our secondary water source, releasing water from Eagle Nest Lake would have been of no benefit so we would have been seriously screwed had we not gotten the rains in July and August!

Much better winter so far with plenty of snow in the high country and down here as well.


They said small concentrations occur naturally, then skated all around other possible sources in that article.  But they did talk about creation of arsenic from oil getting into the aquifer near Bemidji, MN and elevating arsenic.  Would love to see what they have to say about that for Oklahoma, given the much more massive amount of oil spills and ground water contamination we have had for over 100 years.  NE OKlahoma has extreme difficulty getting a good drinkable water well - as I have been finding out in the last couple years - due to the omnipresent contamination by oil industry.  State water board has a map of all the water wells in the state and there aren't many that are viable close to Tulsa - especially in my area of interest near Oologah.

https://toxics.usgs.gov/highlights/2015-01-26-arsenic_plumes.html


And if one wants to go all "conspiracy theory"  on the topic, it really isn't that big a leap to get to where one may think that there are 'corporate water interests' that encourage the degradation of wells and surface water supplies so they can make big bucks selling you (anyone) a bottle of water.  Even better if you are forced into it, because they have the capital to invest in the process of making water "clean" and "safe".  Water will be much more lucrative than oil in the next few decades - you can see the work in process in Colorado for the last 100+ years...just try to buy some water rights there! 






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 09, 2019, 11:55:16 am
Sorry Laramie, but that building is UGLY.  Is that the best the developers can come up with?  I don't see any retail on the ground floor to encourage locals. 

It's beyond awful.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 11:56:38 am
It's beyond awful.

LMAO, no need to apologize, it's dog pound ugly   ...glad you guys got a good laugh!   ;D


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 11:57:12 am
Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventionback.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention082316a.jpg)
                                                          Oklahoma City Convention Center
                                                                   200,000-square-foot exhibit hall on the ground floor, divisible into four spaces
                                                                     30,000-square-foot ballroom, with a 10,000-square-foot pre-function space and a 4,000-square-foot balcony
                                                                     45,000 square feet of meeting space, which can be configured in up to 27 rooms.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/mixeduse011518a.jpg)
                                                          Omni Convention Center Hotel
                                                                    605 guest rooms
                                                                50,000 square feet of ballroom and meeting space.
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-4caa903827f6effe523e610015a31ec3.jpg)
                                                                                                Fairfield Inn & Suites
                                                                                                        133 guest rooms    
(http://image.mlive.com/home/mlive-media/width600/img/grpress/news_impact/photo/library-parking-1jpg-777324687c136715.jpg)
Oklahoma City Convention Center Garage
                                                                                                       865 spaces.
                                                                                                        435-foot-long enclosed skyway is to connect the garage to the convention center.
                                                                                                        500 surface parking on the convention center complex
      



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 12:12:44 pm
It's beyond awful.

No chance that passes Automobile Alley design review.  I am skeptical of the origins of the design slide.   I don’t believe it was ever intended to represent the final design. I think it was a place holder in a presentation.  Also note they had the DT district name incorrect.   Midtown and not automobile alley.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 12:25:22 pm
No chance that passes Automobile Alley design review.  I am skeptical of the origins of the design slide.   I don’t believe it was ever intended to represent the final design. I think it was a place holder in a presentation.  Also note they had the DT district name incorrect.   Midtown and not automobile alley.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/townplacesuites010819.jpg)

I hope it's a placeholder.  Just imagine if you were on the design & review committee--no you just didn't bring us some crap that looks like that.

The design & review committee will go into complete shock if this is ever presented before their committee.   :-[


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 12:44:22 pm
  Oklahoma City convention center complex construction pic progress via OKCTalk forum:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni010519b.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: cannon_fodder on January 09, 2019, 01:03:21 pm
How did OKC end up with so much underutilized (or flat out empty) land between downtown and the river? I get the part cut off by the interstate, always harder to join developing areas when a physical barrier is in place. But downtown OKC has been in a 25+ year revival.  With the "old" convention center, the gardens, and the arena (which turned into an NBA arena), not too mention easy access to downtown and bricktown - it seemed ripe for incremental development projects. Heck, it seems that at some point it was razed - did an "urban renewal" plan fall flat (see, e.g., the empty lots north of 244 in downtown Tulsa)?

I'm not trying to be critical, God knows Tulsa has pockets we destroyed intentional, through policy, or through one quirk or another.  I've just always wondered as I drive through that area and then see all the other developments going on.  At least you are able to capitalize on the it for the current project!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 02:16:29 pm
The large area south of Bricktown is the CO OP site and was just recently cleared.   The other area south of Reno one block north and one block south of the old  I40 allighnment and all the way to the river was effectively killed off by the highway.   The density that was there prior to the highway was mostly cleared and turned into blighted industrial use.   It is being cleaned up and developers/investors have acquired enormous chunks of land.   However,  it is a slow process to develop with inflated land costs, competing infil developments still available in the core of DT and the ever changing retail environment.   There is also the “South OKC” perception problem similar to North Tulsa.   The area doesn’t have any historic neighborhoods and is a clean slate for high quality single family development.  I truly believe this area is the perfect fit for infill similar to the Wheeler District that is being developed in OKC.   Hard to believe back in the day along the river there was a dense area with a zoo and golf course.   




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 02:17:16 pm
https://www.wheelerdistrict.com/


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 02:32:12 pm
The other issue was the impact of the failed Pei Plan, which cleared a significant amount of dense development throughout the core of DT OKC resulting in he loss of numerous Art Deco treasures in OKC.  It has taken 25 years of momentum to overcome the damage that was done.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 02:36:29 pm
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/OKCdowntownaerial.jpg

https://goo.gl/images/fCnUAT

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/5/54/Criterion_Theater_OKC_1929.jpg

https://newsok.com/article/5546732/im-pei-legacy-in-okc-mixed-on-his-100th-birthday





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 02:37:09 pm
Truly incomprehensible what OKC destroyed for urban renewal in the 60’s.   


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 02:55:43 pm
The other issue was the impact of the failed Pei Plan, which cleared a significant amount of dense development throughout the core of DT OKC resulting in he loss of numerous Art Deco treasures in OKC.  It has taken 25 years of momentum to overcome the damage that was done.

(http://okcmod.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/8-pei-plan-model-panorama.jpg)
                            1960's Oklahoma City downtown Pei Plan
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b9/Ieoh_Ming_Pei.jpg)

I.M. Pei (Chinese American Architect) introduced the Pei plan which included a downtown OKC Galleria shopping mall (retail) was killed by the Metro underground concourse.  Pei was very upset with the underground Metro-concourse because it killed the downtown street life.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 03:46:51 pm
University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma City Drone Video (4K)...  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JNM09hPXL0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JNM09hPXL0)

(http://themanorbb.com/wp-content/uploads/Memorial-Stadium.jpg)

(https://insideoutdoor.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/OK-Boathouse-768x512.jpg)
Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium & Oklahoma City Riversports Rapids


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 09, 2019, 04:25:17 pm
Truly incomprehensible what OKC destroyed for urban renewal in the 60’s.  

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAPmZVy9XCQ/VE6zD_kNORI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/U0YQrugQXC4/s1600/baum%2B1.jpg)
The Baum Building sat at the corner of Robinson and Grand (Sheridan) in downtown Oklahoma City. This was the work of Layton and Smith, the same firm that designed the Oklahoma State Capital building, and was completed in 1910. This structure was demolished in 1973 as part of the urban renewal movement.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLzoJkAIR9g/VE6zGkJ-TlI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/fvipjcuEC1I/s1600/doge%2B1.jpg)
                                                 The Infamous Baum Building

                                              Yes, our city demolished some jewels.  There are relics of this structure throughout the core; God forgive them for they know not what they do...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 09, 2019, 05:34:17 pm
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oAPmZVy9XCQ/VE6zD_kNORI/AAAAAAAAJ1o/U0YQrugQXC4/s1600/baum%2B1.jpg)
The Baum Building sat at the corner of Robinson and Grand (Sheridan) in downtown Oklahoma City. This was the work of Layton and Smith, the same firm that designed the Oklahoma State Capital building, and was completed in 1910. This structure was demolished in 1973 as part of the urban renewal movement.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fLzoJkAIR9g/VE6zGkJ-TlI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/fvipjcuEC1I/s1600/doge%2B1.jpg)
                                                 The Infamous Baum Building

                                              Yes, our city demolished some jewels.  There are relics of this structure throughout the core; God forgive them for they know not what they do...

Your bottom photo there is the Doge Palace in Venice.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 09, 2019, 10:38:16 pm
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dwf85dKVAAA447Y?format=jpg&name=large


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 10, 2019, 07:55:16 pm
Your bottom photo there is the Doge Palace in Venice.

Oops, I pasted those pics  from a site which had the Baum Building at the top and the second pic at the bottom.  My badd, didn't take the time to read...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 10, 2019, 08:24:51 pm
Just received news on the TownPlace Suites.  It has been modified for the design & review committee according to OKCTalk forum.

Looks a tab bit better:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace011019.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace011019b.jpg)

It has been modified; horse shore shaped U; still  :D; this building if approved, will be east of the Heartland Payments HQ.

Specs:  
             9 stories
         160 rooms
         140 parking

TownPlace Suites & Heartland Payments plan to acquire spaces from the Gaylord Branch Downtown YMCA garage; both are on/near the streetcar route off Broadway.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 10, 2019, 08:31:52 pm
Just received news on the TownPlace Suites.  It has been modified for the design & review committee according to OKCTalk forum.

Looks a tab bit better:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace011019.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace011019b.jpg)

It has been modified; horse shore shaped U; still  :D; this building if approved, will be east of the Heartland Payments HQ.

Specs:  
             9 stories
         160 rooms
         140 parking

TownPlace Suites & Heartland Payments plan to acquire spaces from the Gaylord Branch Downtown YMCA garage; both are on/near the streetcar route off Broadway.




That's better?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 10, 2019, 10:20:09 pm
Zero chance of design review approval


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on January 11, 2019, 01:23:16 pm
That's better?

Guys be nice, that's Cimarex's little sister.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 11, 2019, 02:10:01 pm
One thing about the design & review committee; they are strictly an advisory group.  The council is under no obligation to take their recommendation; however, it's difficult to conceive that you would give a group this authority to make decisions and don't accept their recommendations.

Now the 1st rendering; again was DOG-POUND UGLY.   :-[   Forgive me guys, I can't stop laughing; especially Swake's comment 'That's better?'  ;D

The 2nd rendering IMO was better--however, we need to accept the decision of the design & review committee.  Afterall, if you're west of the TownePlace like Heartland Payments, you don't want a building next to yours that detracts from your beautiful glass structure.  

This isn't the case of two uglys side by side.   More like Glenda in the Wizard of Oz next to the wicked witch--you would have to be a desperate cock-hound to knock on the wicked witches' door.  ;)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 11, 2019, 03:08:11 pm
Guys be nice, that's Cimarex's little sister.

That design review committee needs lots and lots of photos of Cimarex. Both the before renderings and actual photos.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 11, 2019, 04:21:44 pm
FAA Oklahoma City, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC) & Will Rogers World Airport.

(https://www.eabookstore.com/sites/acea/uploads/images/mmac.jpg)(https://blog.executivebiz.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/FAA-250x248.jpeg)(http://www.rivasolutionsinc.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/FAA-Mike-Monroney-Bldg-W-500x250.jpg)
Will Rogers Terminal Expansion
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/airport072518a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wrwa090318c.jpg)

Will Rogers World Airport terminal expansion gets final go-ahead https://newsok.com/article/5605696/airport-authority-gives-final-approval-to-plans-for-will-rogers-terminal-expansion. (https://newsok.com/article/5605696/airport-authority-gives-final-approval-to-plans-for-will-rogers-terminal-expansion.)






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 11, 2019, 04:59:30 pm
In the 1960s it was billed as 'The Church of Tomorrow."

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-401adacb9957d3c8fe79985321aed0a6.jpg)
The iconic First Christian Church of Oklahoma City building and property at 3700 N Walker is shown in this photograph. [Photo by Chris Landsberger, The Oklahoman Archives]

Future 'uncertain' for Jewel Box Theatre as church sale looms https://www.oklahoman.com/future-uncertain-for-jewel-box-theatre-as-church-sale-looms-theatrical-companys-longtime-production-director-is-leaving-at-mid-season/article/5619968 (https://www.oklahoman.com/future-uncertain-for-jewel-box-theatre-as-church-sale-looms-theatrical-companys-longtime-production-director-is-leaving-at-mid-season/article/5619968)

Quote
The future of Oklahoma City's oldest continuously operating community theater is uncertain now that its longtime production director is leaving mid-season and the theatrical company's relationship with its sponsor church may be evolving.

Jewel Box Theatre has been an outreach of First Christian Church of Oklahoma City for decades, with productions performed on the in-the-round stage at the church, 3700 N Walker. The theater's current season is its 61st, but the church has been staging plays continuously for nearly a century under the Jewel Box moniker.

At the heart of the matter is the church's plan to sell its 31.8-acre property and iconic building at the corner of NW 36 and Walker Avenue. The property has been on the market since 2016.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 11, 2019, 05:10:22 pm
Boeing delivers first of new tanker aircraft to Air Force: https://www.oklahoman.com/air-forces-latest-refueling-tanker-delivered-to-air-force/article/5619909 (https://www.oklahoman.com/air-forces-latest-refueling-tanker-delivered-to-air-force/article/5619909)

               (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-d04b8347b1e88a8d7ec2268a8f2f720c.jpg)
 KC-46A Pegasus taxis at Boeing Field after completing a test flight. Boeing has delivered the first of nearly 200 of the refueling craft to the U.S. Air Force ahead of its deployment to Oklahoma air bases. [Photo by Jack Money, The Oklahoman]

The Pegasus will be able to link with more than five dozen different airplanes, both combat and support, during midair refueling operations. During extensive flight testing, six KC-46 aircraft completed more than 3,800 flight hours and offloaded more than 4 million pounds of fuel.

Boeing operates an engineering capability center in Oklahoma City that serves the U.S. Air Force and other Boeing customers.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 12, 2019, 12:39:33 pm
Monarch building construction update via OKCTalk forum.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch4.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch010519.jpg)
Notice all the construction canes throughout this area--all the way to the state capital building top background.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 12, 2019, 01:23:35 pm
Carvana coming to Oklahoma

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2018/07/carvana.jpg?quality=85&strip=all)
Credit: OKCTalk
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana9.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana122218.jpg)
Work has begun on the Memorial Road site.

After purchasing a car online, customers can select the option to pick up their car from the vending machine location. When they arrive at the site, customers find their transaction in a kiosk and the car is dispensed...

...The company will continue to offer car delivery to a home or business as an alternative.

The new facility, which will be built at 1800 W. Memorial Rd., will consist of a 5,800 square foot building and vending tower.

Carvana bringing car vending machine to Oklahoma City:  https://kfor.com/2018/07/13/carvana-bringing-car-vending-machine-to-oklahoma-city/ (https://kfor.com/2018/07/13/carvana-bringing-car-vending-machine-to-oklahoma-city/)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: buffalodan on January 14, 2019, 09:47:45 am
I'm really curious what will eventually happen to a carvana in ~15 years. I'm not sure if Carvana the company would be around or not, but I wouldn't be surprised if the building isn't a car selling facility in 10 years. They generally aren't place where you would expect a typical Hertz/Turo style operation. Do you think they could be converetd to office/retail?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 14, 2019, 11:30:04 am
I'm really curious what will eventually happen to a carvana in ~15 years. I'm not sure if Carvana the company would be around or not, but I wouldn't be surprised if the building isn't a car selling facility in 10 years. They generally aren't place where you would expect a typical Hertz/Turo style operation. Do you think they could be converetd to office/retail?

Great question.  When I first heard of Carvana; my first thought, why do you need a car vending machine.  You can track the delivery then arrange to drive the vehicle off when you pick the thing up.   

As you mentioned; could they be converted to office/retail?   Probably the office pods of a massive car dealership if and when the delivery novelty wears off.  Just don't see this sustainable long term--because 'it's my car and I want it now...'

It's like seeing those new vehicles being delivered on the freight trains.  As children, we use to hunt pigeons & tadpolds near the OKC freight yards downtown; when we came across cars and cattle on freight trains and thought; man, if we can figure out how to get the car off the freight train; it would be easy to drive it off.  We gave up and kept catching pigeons & tadpoles--til that novelty wore off and mother put her foot down--either clean up after the pigeons/tadpoles or let them go.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 20, 2019, 12:58:59 pm

Interview with Mayor David Holt:     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7dy4gjOxzc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s7dy4gjOxzc)

Quote
The mayor said he made no apology for the downtown focus of MAPS 1 and MAPS 3 but to the extent MAPS for Kids was about neighborhoods, "I believe that demand exists once again."

In his speech, Holt reviewed several dozen ideas for MAPS 4.

Falling into broad categories, among them were mobility, education, sports and entertainment facilities, economic development and job creation, social ills, and neighborhood enhancement.

Transit was citizens' No. 1 request in MAPS 3, he said, "and it is again in MAPS 4."

Improved bus service, including express buses, bus shelters and streetcar extensions are on the list.

Voters have consistently supported MAPS extensions and bond proposals for sidewalks but in a city spread across 621 square miles, Holt said, "there is still much to do."

Quote
Sports and entertainment venues could be in the mix:
(https://www.mondodr.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/Energy-Arena-edit-696x522.jpg)

(https://www.nba.com/thunder/sites/thunder/files/styles/story_main_photo/public/st_practice_150409.jpg?itok=b_q8C51p)
• Upgrading Chesapeake Energy Arena and practice facilities for the Thunder are vital, Holt said.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena4.jpg)
New State Fair Arena

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena7.jpg)
New State Fair Arena
• A $96.6 million coliseum, designed for horse shows, is proposed to replace Fairgrounds Arena.


(https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/warehouse/v1.0/publiccontent/d1abd26c-2425-4f35-a5f2-44ce483cc893)
New multipurpose soccer & American football stadium
• A multipurpose stadium could become the home of the Energy soccer team, the mayor said.

Holt said the South Oklahoma City Chamber has floated the idea of an aerospace job training center.

Analysis: Plotting a new course for MAPS 4:  https://www.oklahoman.com/analysis-plotting-a-new-course-for-maps-4/article/5620675 (http://"https://www.oklahoman.com/analysis-plotting-a-new-course-for-maps-4/article/5620675")


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 20, 2019, 11:31:31 pm
Laramie,

What is going or what has already replaced the old race car track?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsasooner78 on January 21, 2019, 08:18:23 am
Parking


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on January 21, 2019, 08:53:38 am
I'd love to see OKC get another hockey team (ECHL) and play in State Fair Arena.  Looks ideal for it.  Having the old Turnpike Rivalry back would help both fanbases.  I see alot of old Blazer fans at Oiler games right now.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 22, 2019, 08:40:35 am
Laramie,

What is going or what has already replaced the old race car track?

As Tulsasooner78 mentioned--parking.    The old stock car races at the Grand Stands & Taft Stadium are a thing of the past.   Neighborhoods on N.W 10th & May (Grand Stands) and N.W. 23rd & May (Taft Stadium) complained of the constant noise those venues generated from the stock car events.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 23, 2019, 12:15:31 pm


Oklahoma City brewing district

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/frbreweries012219a.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk forum

Three new breweries opening soon and three already established, Film Row District is quickly becoming a craft beer destination...

(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/5524755/angry_scotsman.jpg?cb=1548102914) (https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/5524756/anthem.jpg?cb=1548102961)

Oklahoma Gazette - New brews: https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/brewing-district/Content?oid=5524691 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/brewing-district/Content?oid=5524691)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 23, 2019, 01:55:20 pm


Oklahoma Gazette - New brews: https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/brewing-district/Content?oid=5524691 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/brewing-district/Content?oid=5524691)[/center]



Sounds suspicious....how could a Scotsman be angry while surrounded by his own brew?? 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 23, 2019, 11:05:16 pm

Sounds suspicious....how could a Scotsman be angry while surrounded by his own brew?? 


My thoughts exactly.  This Welshman is always happy when surrounded with his brews.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 24, 2019, 09:13:33 am
My thoughts exactly.  This Welshman is always happy when surrounded with his brews.


Oh, no...Welsh...?   My best friend's family is Welsh - Mom a war bride!  Still a bunch of them 'back home'.  And I did some tracking on my family - there were a couple of Welshmen hiding in the woodshed...!   (But mostly Irish.)

THAT explains a lot....!!  Lol...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 25, 2019, 11:49:23 pm

Oh, no...Welsh...?   My best friend's family is Welsh - Mom a war bride!  Still a bunch of them 'back home'.  And I did some tracking on my family - there were a couple of Welshmen hiding in the woodshed...!   (But mostly Irish.)

THAT explains a lot....!!  Lol...


The primary rules of being a Welshman:

-No vowels.  Ever.  We can't be seen as compromising like the Poles who allow the occasional vowel between their "Z's" and "Y's".
-Short, wide, webbed feet.  We taught ducks to walk.
-Must be shorter than 5 feet tall.  Allows us to walk in many interesting places and hide in any beer vat.
-Yes, we are still arguing that J.R.R. Tolkien ripped off our kind when he wrote "The Hobbit" from nodding off in a Welsh pub one day
-Welsh rarebit (i.e. rabbit) did not come from Wales, it was actually St. Peter's way to get the misbehaving Welshmen out of Heaven, to wit:

"There is no evidence that the Welsh actually originated Welsh rabbit, although they have always had a reputation for being passionately fond of it (a fourteenth-century text tells the tale that the Welsh people in heaven were being troublesome, and in order to get rid of them St Peter went outside the Pearly Gates and shouted ‘Caws pobi’ (Welsh for ‘toasted cheese’)—whereupon all the Welsh rushed out and the gates were shut on them)."

That's us in a nutshell.  Toasted cheese and beer.  We love it!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 26, 2019, 09:18:48 am
The primary rules of being a Welshman:

-No vowels.  Ever.  We can't be seen as compromising like the Poles who allow the occasional vowel between their "Z's" and "Y's".
-Short, wide, webbed feet.  We taught ducks to walk.
-Must be shorter than 5 feet tall.  Allows us to walk in many interesting places and hide in any beer vat.
-Yes, we are still arguing that J.R.R. Tolkien ripped off our kind when he wrote "The Hobbit" from nodding off in a Welsh pub one day
-Welsh rarebit (i.e. rabbit) did not come from Wales, it was actually St. Peter's way to get the misbehaving Welshmen out of Heaven, to wit:

"There is no evidence that the Welsh actually originated Welsh rabbit, although they have always had a reputation for being passionately fond of it (a fourteenth-century text tells the tale that the Welsh people in heaven were being troublesome, and in order to get rid of them St Peter went outside the Pearly Gates and shouted ‘Caws pobi’ (Welsh for ‘toasted cheese’)—whereupon all the Welsh rushed out and the gates were shut on them)."

That's us in a nutshell.  Toasted cheese and beer.  We love it!




No kidding!!  Friend is short, married a tall woman and had tall kids...interesting family photos...

What's to argue about - there is no doubt of Tolkien's inspiration!

Mom was wonderful person!  Second home - got fed twice each day - there and at regular home!   And always lots of Coca-Cola which we never got at home!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 26, 2019, 12:33:40 pm
You guys are hilarious...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 26, 2019, 12:39:07 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-6923454751fbecf49ffaa189bb458442.jpg)

(https://www.cobases.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Tinker-AFB-Logistics-Center.jpg) (https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/clientuploads/case_studies/bnsf/KC-46A-Campus-HiAngle-PressPackage.jpg)
Former GM plant & complex (top & middle pic right) now operated by Tinker AFB Oklahoma City

First new Tinker hangars nearing completion

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-f317016ae9dd64f5a03fbe69f062debb.jpg)

Col. Kenyon K. Bell gives briefing about current construction progress of the maintenance facility at Tinker Air Force Base that will support the Air Force's new tanker, the Boeing KC-46 Pegasus. Two hangars are visible behind Bell, the 72nd Air Base Wing Commander at Tinker. [Photos by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman]

Quote
Construction workers first broke ground on the new series of hangars in 2016. The base now provides Oklahoma with an economic impact of more than $4 billion, and is the largest single-site employer in the state.

"You think about adding 1,300 jobs to that, it is going to only increase the economic impact we have on our local community," said Bell.

Saturday, January 26, 2019 | by Dale Denwalt:  https://www.oklahoman.com/first-hangars-for-air-forces-new-kc-46-tanker-almost-complete/article/5621260 (https://www.oklahoman.com/first-hangars-for-air-forces-new-kc-46-tanker-almost-complete/article/5621260)

The first KC-46 Pegasus has been delivered to the U.S. Air Force from its manufacturer Boeing just as the first of 14 maintenance hangars for the aircraft are nearing completion at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on January 27, 2019, 07:06:06 am
I'm really curious what will eventually happen to a carvana in ~15 years. I'm not sure if Carvana the company would be around or not, but I wouldn't be surprised if the building isn't a car selling facility in 10 years. They generally aren't place where you would expect a typical Hertz/Turo style operation. Do you think they could be converetd to office/retail?

The actual office area of  Carvana location is about the size of a QT, the tower portion with the cars in it, each floor is under 450sqft. They really are not that big that you could convert it into something else if the fail as a car vending machine.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 27, 2019, 12:10:14 pm
The actual office area of  Carvana location is about the size of a QT, the tower portion with the cars in it, each floor is under 450sqft. They really are not that big that you could convert it into something else if the fail as a car vending machine.

Agree 100%--you've done some research.

Are they actually a car vending machine.   Don't claim to know all the 'ins and outs' about Carvana; maybe it's a vending machine or maybe not.  Have no idea what these glass encased cubicles will cost to build or if they could be scrapped.  They do look impressive, IMO with little knowledge of how they work, let alone how they could be repurposed.

Some information about Carvana; it costs $5 million to build each vending machine.

Quote
The company, formed in 2012, entered its first market in January 2013. As of Dec. 31 it had sold 71,900 vehicles, generating $1.4 billion in revenue, the company said in its 2017 annual financial report.

But Carvana has yet to turn a profit, and as of Dec. 31 its accumulated losses totaled $316.9 million.

Carvana building automotive 'vending machine' in Indianapolis:  https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69941-carvana-building-automotive-vending-machine-in-indianapolis (https://www.ibj.com/blogs/19-property-lines/post/69941-carvana-building-automotive-vending-machine-in-indianapolis)

I recall my marketing professor at the University of Central Oklahoma saying, "if it doesn't work in New York, Los Angeles or Chicago market it in Oklahoma City; if it doesn't work there, take it off the market."


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on January 27, 2019, 01:04:13 pm
There's one that I drive by frequently that's on Scottsdale Road at the 202 Freeway. I drove around it one day and someone was getting their car out of the building, and I just kind of chuckled about the whole thing.

I guess the idea works for those that don't want the whole hassle of going to a dealership because they're to busy binge watching Portlandia.

I did do a little research on the vehicles that they sell, I'm looking for something right now but not in a hurry to buy, and priced cars they had in inventory with similar cars through other dealers including Carmax and private sales, and Carvana was easily $1500.00 to $3500.00 above everyone else. I guess I'm just a cranky old fart that still wants to go look at, test drive and checkout the vehicle I'm going to buy before paying for it. With Carvana you don't get to actually see and touch the car until you've paid for it and taken delivery. You then have seven days to return it if you don't like it. Reviews I've read are mixed, but it's just not the way I want to buy a used car.

https://goo.gl/maps/N9UtBKN6dGo (https://goo.gl/maps/N9UtBKN6dGo)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 27, 2019, 01:26:41 pm
Carvana was easily $1500.00 to $3500.00 above everyone else.

Of course they are. They have to pay for the stupid gimmick car vending machine towers.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on January 27, 2019, 08:01:36 pm
Of course they are. They have to pay for the stupid gimmick car vending machine towers.


(http://memecrunch.com/meme/AW8Q7/no-way/image.jpg)

No kidding. I figured that out in the first five minutes of my research and I have an education from Tulsa Public Schools.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2019, 07:19:28 pm
Prefer slightly used cars; something broken in with less than 50,000 miles in the 20115-17 range.  Have purchased brand new vehicles before; however, the insurance (full coverage) will cost you extra buck$ a month--not to mention if you've had any citations on your record.  

Plus you need 'uninsured motorist' in Oklahoma because our state has a high rate of drivers who don't have any insurance whatsoever. Oklahoma loves to compete with Texas:

Quote
Texas continues to have the highest uninsured rate of 17.3 percent, followed by 14.2 percent in Oklahoma, while Massachusetts has the lowest uninsured rate at 2.8 percent. Six states—Hawaii, Iowa, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Rhode Island, and Vermont—and DC have uninsured rates at or below 5 percent.  Sep 13, 2018

As far as a dealership like Carvana, they have a good selection of certified vehicles under warranty--just don't have extra money to donate to their collection plate.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on January 28, 2019, 09:21:04 pm
Prefer slightly used cars; something broken in with less than 50,000 miles in the 20115-17 range.  Have purchased brand new vehicles before; however, the insurance (full coverage) will cost you extra buck$ a month--not to mention if you've had any citations on your record.
If "you" buy any kind of performance car, it's nice to know the car's history of abuse or lack of abuse.  New is more expensive but if you keep it forever it's not so bad. 

Quote
Plus you need 'uninsured motorist' in Oklahoma because our state has a high rate of drivers who don't have any insurance whatsoever.

I believe "uninsured motorist" insurance only covers medical expenses.  It won't fix your car.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 28, 2019, 09:46:08 pm
If "you" buy any kind of performance car, it's nice to know the car's history of abuse or lack of abuse.  New is more expensive but if you keep it forever it's not so bad. 

I believe "uninsured motorist" insurance only covers medical expenses.  It won't fix your car.




It only covers medical expenses of passengers in your car that do not have medical insurance and only in an accident that you are not at fault for and if the other driver has no/insufficient insurance. It's basically pointless.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 29, 2019, 12:03:27 pm

Prefer slightly used cars; something broken in with less than 50,000 miles in the 20115-17 range.  Have purchased brand new vehicles before; however, the insurance (full coverage) will cost you extra buck$ a month--not to mention if you've had any citations on your record.  



What is your transportation goal?  Minimize cost per mile?  Maximize the good feels of driving newer car?  Minimum maintenance?   Your goal is pretty good, but if you look for something north of 50k and under 100k, you can save many thousands of upfront cost with little or no additional cost per mile.  And with today's cars, generally get something that will last a long time, if you want to hang on for a while.  Well, except for Dodge cars...Dodge cars are gonna drain you!  They have been Fiat for quite a while now, and everything that goes along with that...




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 29, 2019, 05:25:20 pm

It only covers medical expenses of passengers in your car that do not have medical insurance and only in an accident that you are not at fault for and if the other driver has no/insufficient insurance. It's basically pointless.

Thanks for the information Red Arrow & Swake--did confirm this IMO too--to be pointless.   Plan to replace one of my current vehicles next year; my current insurer will attempt to add uninsured motorist;  they ask you to sign that you refused 'uninsured motorist.' 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 29, 2019, 05:35:09 pm

Oklahoma City's Historic Skirvin Hotel

Skirvin ghost tales may get a Hollywood treatment:

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-4067e4c135f06b9a0e5e406c795e87be.jpg)

The Skirvin Hilton Hotel and Effie, the fabled ghost who supposedly haunts the historic landmark, may soon be featured a Hollywood movie based on tales told by NBA players who say they've had encounters with the tragic and sometimes amorous apparition...

...We were quite aware of Effie, who legend says was a former maid impregnated by the hotelier and oil wildcatter W.B. Skirvin and then locked in the room on the 10th floor until she gave birth.

ESPN and Variety reported Monday afternoon the hotel will get the Hollywood spotlight with Imagine Entertainment announcing it has optioned an upcoming Players' Tribune oral history article on the Skirvin with the movie set to star Kyrie Irving of the Boston Celtics and “Uncle Drew” fame.

The reports do not indicate whether the studio will be filming at the historic hotel, but based on past response by the hotel's current owners, Marcus Hotels and Resorts, film crews may find themselves unwelcome guests.

Once the baby was born, the tale goes, Effie jumped, baby in her arms, to her death.

Repeat after me: It never happened.


Skirvin ghost tales may get a Hollywood treatment: https://www.oklahoman.com/skirvin-ghost-tales-may-get-a-hollywood-treatment/article/5621437 (https://www.oklahoman.com/skirvin-ghost-tales-may-get-a-hollywood-treatment/article/5621437)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Townsend on January 30, 2019, 11:56:27 am
Oklahoma City's Historic Skirvin Hotel

Skirvin ghost tales may get a Hollywood treatment:


(http://myimages.bravenet.com/121/813/779/TomNancyHeatherxxSmallx.JPG)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 30, 2019, 09:17:48 pm
Thanks for the information Red Arrow & Swake--did confirm this IMO too--to be pointless.   Plan to replace one of my current vehicles next year; my current insurer will attempt to add uninsured motorist;  they ask you to sign that you refused 'uninsured motorist.'


They all require that - state law.

According to my insurance people...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 16, 2019, 03:26:20 pm


Plans to redevelop 16 plus acres near The Penn Square Mall area at Penn Avenue & N.W. Highway:

Tulsa developer Ryan McNeill has big plans ($15 million investment) for Penn Central: http://www.news9.com/story/38791234/retail-project-to-transform-nw-okc-neighborhood (http://www.news9.com/story/38791234/retail-project-to-transform-nw-okc-neighborhood)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/avalon3.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral7.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral9.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral8.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral.jpg)
Pics via OKCTalk forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 16, 2019, 11:54:15 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15156&d=1550363552)


Progress on the 605 room Omni Hotel on the new OKC Convention Center Complex south of The Peake across Oklahoma City Boulevard.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 17, 2019, 05:28:28 pm
Oklahoma City Ideas 4 MAPS are being submitted:

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-e25cfb0ba9c04ef29a0d43d4d4184fee.jpg) (http://flintco.com/uploads/gallery_images/cache/1622_570x470_crop_p19h609p4s2po1v94cv15hig1t6.jpg?1545922831)
Oklahoma City Energy FC fans want to elevate to Major League Soccer (MLS.)  IMHO Tulsa would be a much better market for eventual MLS b/c OKC fans would make the 91 mile Turnpike travel as many of us did in the 70s-80s for NASL Roughneck games.

Soccer specific & American football venue could also attract pro football XFL, AAF, FFL - Freedom Football League (Oklahoma City listed as starter market); stadium is being pushed for the south side of the Oklahoma River. A stadium on the south side of the Oklahoma River would be a major boost to the Capitol Hill & Stockyard City area of OKC.

Analysis: Plotting a new course for MAPS 4:  https://www.oklahoman.com/analysis-plotting-a-new-course-for-maps-4/article/5620675 (https://www.oklahoman.com/analysis-plotting-a-new-course-for-maps-4/article/5620675)

The new Oklahoma City convention center & 605-room Omni Hotel (4-star hotel) and the 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites will make 738 rooms available on the convention center site for OKC convention goers.  Plans are currently being made to book future conventions for the city.

Other ideas being submitted include:  Streetcar expansion to OU Health Science Center (Northeast from downtown)...  ...also to Capitol Hill area south and the Asian & Paseo District's north.
 
(https://img.evbuc.com/https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.evbuc.com%2Fimages%2F51938048%2F155649405031%2F1%2Foriginal.jpg?h=200&w=450&auto=compress&rect=0%2C401%2C540%2C270&s=0a2b76a260eb71ce13626a87bf6007ba)

... Bricktown Canal extension toward west Lower Bricktown to the Steelyard area.

MAPS III initiative expires April 1, 2020; therefore an extension vote would occur in September 2019 or February-March 2020.   Mayor David Holt is soliciting Ideas 4 MAPS extension.
OKC will not be able to use the current Cox Convention Center (formerly Myriad Convention Center) b/c of the agreement with the Omni--Cox CC can no longer be used for conventions.  There will be plans to demolish the CC--salvage the underground parking and possible bring the 4 square blocks back to the original street grid if feasible.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 19, 2019, 07:15:16 pm
.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/staybridge021719.jpg)
Never seen any structure this close to an expressway in Oklahoma City with the exception of the U-Haul structure off I-40 old crosstown.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/staybridgewiki1.jpg)
Staybridge Suites
Five floors,  131 rooms


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 19, 2019, 07:23:13 pm



(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/coop021719.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk forum

An Ideas for MAPS 4 one & a half-mile Bricktown Canal extension thru the Coop Mill parcel to the convention center complex would allow for more development along the canal and enhance the convention center complex.

An extension of the canal is a project that could be considered for MAPS 4 Ideas. It would probably cost twice as much to add one & a half miles to expand the canal. OKC spent $13 million for the current mile long Bricktown Canal. We could build some residential high rise and mix-use office along this portion of the canal thru the Coop Mill to the new convention center complex.

Note: The area along the Rock Climbing Silo underneath the elevated portion of the Shields Bypass toward the new convention center complex where the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott have topped out a 5 stories.

An extension would have to go under the current Shield's Boulevard Bypass wind back north thru Scissortail Park to the new convention center complex.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 19, 2019, 08:57:51 pm

Oklahoma City's Iconic Skydance Bridge

(https://cdn.oncarrot.com/uploads/sites/24933/2012/11/OKC-Bridge-1.jpg)  (https://www.405magazine.com/January-2014/Love-is-in-the-Air/Skydance-Bridge.jpg)

Oklahoma City's monstrosity SkyDance Bridge towers 200 feet high, built at a cost of $6 million, the structure provides a pedestrian link crossing I-40 between the north and south areas of the city.  Its steel structure represents the state bird, Scissortail Flycatcher. It illuminates in all colors; sometimes seasonal, St. Patrick's Day green, Thunder Blue & Gold & Christmas variety colors.

(https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/535bb50d-92a6-4905-994b-f45ade0e6bc2_l.jpeg)

Skydance Bridge Light Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jWveaTBY5U (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jWveaTBY5U)

(https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5282a9e2e4b09c6e94716a9d/t/5944390f893fc01e8d3afd6b/1497643289327/%C2%A9Tim+Hursley72879c.jpg?format=1500w)

Skydance Bridge at Night https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hQPrU8Admg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hQPrU8Admg)
Skydance Bridge's steel bird towers above the new 10 lane I-40 Crosstown Expressway thru the core of the city.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2019, 04:26:45 pm


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/coop021719.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk forum

An Ideas for MAPS 4 one & a half-mile Bricktown Canal extension thru the Coop Mill parcel to the convention center complex would allow for more development along the canal and enhance the convention center complex.

An extension of the canal is a project that could be considered for MAPS 4 Ideas. It would probably cost twice as much to add one & a half miles to expand the canal. OKC spent $13 million for the current mile long Bricktown Canal. We could build some residential high rise and mix-use office along this portion of the canal thru the Coop Mill to the new convention center complex.

Note: The area along the Rock Climbing Silo underneath the elevated portion of the Shields Bypass toward the new convention center complex where the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott have topped out a 5 stories.

An extension would have to go under the current Shield's Boulevard Bypass wind back north thru Scissortail Park to the new convention center complex.

Below is a conceptual plan prior to the new convention center complex to extend the Bricktown Canal: 

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/canal022019.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2019, 05:48:41 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-5f25f6ae73d0fecc1f3e42982bfa6534.jpg)
  (Pic via Oklahoman 02-20-19)

Oklahoma City's ever changing weather.  Two Beautiful views of The Lighthouse on Lake Hefner following Tuesday's light snow flurries (above).  A jogger gets his workout despite the weather conditions. A scenic view (below) as the sun surrenders its tide on the calm waters of the lake.

(https://media2.trover.com/T/5b25db7d12e828e306000e9c/fixedw_large_4x.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2019, 06:31:51 pm
(http://www.acogok.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/RTA-SEAL.png)
All Aboard: The Mayors of Six Cities Sign Historic Agreement Forming Regional Transportation Authority of Central Oklahoma
Del City ★ Edmond ★ Midwest City ★ Moore ★ Norman ★ Oklahoma City

Association of Central Oklahoma Governments | ACOG http://www.acogok.org/all-aboard-mayors-of-six-cities-sign-historic-agreement-forming-regional-transportation-authority-of-central-oklahoma/ (http://www.acogok.org/all-aboard-mayors-of-six-cities-sign-historic-agreement-forming-regional-transportation-authority-of-central-oklahoma/)

(https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,h_300,q_75,w_720/v1/clients/oklahoma/streetcar_blog_1_f5bcd002-ed53-4ca2-bb43-699741ef78ff.jpg)

Regional Transportation Authority of Central Oklahoma forms  https://okcfox.com/news/local/regional-transportation-authority-of-central-oklahoma-forms (https://okcfox.com/news/local/regional-transportation-authority-of-central-oklahoma-forms)

Signing at Oklahoma City historic Santa Fe Station


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 22, 2019, 02:34:30 pm

Oklahoma City booming with new core & area developments

Four developments planned via OKCTalk:


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/foraker021719b.jpg)
Automobile Alley
The area near the railroad tracks in Automobile Alley continues to boom, with yet another large-scale redevelopment in the works.
...Last week, local developer Jeremy Foraker closed on the buildings that currently house Java Dave's, on 9th Street just east of the tracks.

The property consists of 3 warehouses at 10 NE 9th, comprising 45,650 square feet on .9 acres. Sales price was $2.6 million.

Foraker is still finalizing plans but expects to completely renovate the structures to include future restaurant, retail and office space and possibly apartments on the 2nd floor. Design is by Common Works Architects.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/cains021919e.jpg)
Automobile Alley
Building permits were submitted for a $4 million renovation to the long-neglected building a 1 NW 12th, formerly home to Cain's Coffee...
...The 5-story building was purchased in 2016 by Midwest City contractor HGL Construction and the company has been marketing the space for lease for the last two years.

Plans call for a full renovation of the 1918 structure built in the Art Deco revival style. The white glazed brick and cast stone will be repaired, cleaned and sealed. The original steel windows will be restored with new insulated clear glass lights with repainted frames to be made operational.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/mexicanradio4.jpg)
Plaza District

The Good Egg Dining Group has started work on the former Empire Slice House space in the Plaza District...  ...
The group currently operates Cheever's Cafe, Iron Star, Red Primesteak, Republic, Tucker's Onion Burgers, Kitchen No. 324, The Drake and Barrios. Most of the restaurants are in the the urban core, but Mexican Radio will be their first venture in the popular Plaza area.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/copepaseo022119b.jpg)
Paseo District

84 Hospitality Group, proprietors of Empire Slice House, Goro Ramen, Revolucion and Ponyboy, have released more information about their latest venture coming soon to the Paseo District.  Dubbed Gun, the group claims it will be the first of its kind in Oklahoma with a new wave approach to beverage and street food inspired by travel to Japan and other U.S. Cities...


OKCTalk latest news:  http://www.okctalk.com/content.php (http://www.okctalk.com/content.php)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 28, 2019, 05:48:28 pm
Oklahoma City: Stadium and entertainment project proposed for MAPS 4

                      (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819a.jpg)

                      (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819i.jpg)

                      (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819e.jpg)

                      (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819b.jpg)

OKCTalk reports:

****************
Group proposes connecting south OKC to downtown through cultural and sports district

OKLAHOMA CITY (February 28, 2019) - A growing alliance of Oklahoma City residents and organizations today announced support for a MAPS 4 proposal to connect south Oklahoma City to downtown through a cultural, entertainment and sports district anchored by a City-owned multi-purpose outdoor entertainment venue.

The proposal calls for the City to include the venue in the MAPS 4 program, on which residents are expected to vote later this year. Such a venue would allow Oklahoma City to compete for numerous outdoor events including professional soccer matches, rugby and lacrosse games, high school multi-sport rivalries including Oklahoma State Championship Football games, national performances and a host of outdoor concerts, events and exhibitions.

“We fully support Mayor Holt’s vision to usher in a more diverse and inclusive Oklahoma City,” said Bob Funk, Jr., owner & CEO of Prodigal, LLC which operates the Oklahoma City Energy FC and is major driver of the proposal. “Connecting south Oklahoma City to downtown through a cultural and sports district would be a powerful component of building unity and showcasing our diversity.”

The outdoor venue would be sized in accordance with USL, MLS, U.S. Rugby, Major League Lacrosse as well as Oklahoma Secondary School Field regulations and seat between 8,500 – 10,000 people for sporting events and 16,500 to 18,000 for outdoor concerts. It would be designed to allow for renovation to expand capacity, much like the Ford Center which later became Chesapeake Arena.

The City-owned venue would also serve to anchor a walkable district of diverse, modern restaurants, housing and retail, functioning as the public element of a public -private partnership.

“By funding a City-owned, multi-purpose outdoor venue as part of MAPS 4, Oklahoma City will open the door to private investment to complement the public project,” said Chuck Wiggin, an Oklahoma City-based developer with a 38-year track record of successful investment and development projects.

Wiggin further highlighted how Opportunity Zones, as a part of the site selection process, would heighten the appeal for a new category of private investors. These areas, created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017, are designed to spur private investment in designated low-income areas. Much of the City’s Central Business District and surrounding land to the south falls within Opportunity Zone areas.

“Designing connections and walkability around destination areas will also serve to strengthen continuity between Oklahoma City neighborhoods, Scissortail Park, The Convention Center, Wheeler Park, Lower Bricktown and the Boathouse District,” Wiggin said.

The proposal also underscores that a centrally located venue with close proximity to existing downtown attractions would promote citywide accessibility for all residents. However, the submittal stopped short of specifying a location, opting instead to leave the site open-ended, recognizing the City would ultimately determine a location that best suits the proposal.

“We have a keen interest and support for the proposal as a way to connect south Oklahoma City to downtown,” said Dr. Raul Font, president of the Latino Community Development Agency. “We envision this district as one that our community can utilize to showcase Oklahoma City’s vibrant and growing Latino culture.”

The group also proposes the City work with Fields and Futures – a nonprofit founded by OKC Energy FC Partner Tim McLaughlin, which is dedicated to keeping youth in school by refurbishing athletic programs and facilities in Oklahoma City public schools – to add up to 10 soccer fields to Wheeler Park to be uses for tournaments that attract visitors to our region, youth development, league play, and engagement events between professional athletes and the community.

“I’ve witnessed soccer fields transform communities by inspiring young athletes and bringing neighbors together over a common interest,” McLaughlin said. “MAPS 4 is Oklahoma City’s chance to do this on a major scale.”

“We have seen firsthand how soccer can unite so many people,” said Peter Evans, Executive Director of the Oklahoma City Police Athletic League and incoming chairman of the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, “Soccer is a sport a lot of kids play and has significant heritage in so many neighborhoods. As a favorite sport for many of our student-athletes and their families, sharing the game together becomes a relationship building tool for the police officers who serve as coaches and mentors through our program.”

The group identified soccer, rugby and lacrosse as the fastest-growing sports in America, and pointed to a 2018 Nielsen study commissioned by the OKC Energy FC, in which 51 percent of Oklahoma City’s direct market area are interested in or follow professional soccer.

The research further showed Energy FC’s fan base is multicultural and millennial – largely part of the “MAPS generation.”

The group also pointed to the many missed tourism and sporting event opportunities that Oklahoma City is currently unable to compete for due to its lack of an outdoor venue capable of hosting them. They cited Big 12, NCAA, NAIA and junior college soccer, U.S. Soccer Federation, U.S. Youth Soccer, college and club lacrosse, international and club rugby, NCAA Dll football games, e-sports and drone racing events Oklahoma City could pursue if such a facility is built as part of the MAPS 4 initiative.

Supporters include:

          Bob Funk, Jr., Partner, Energy FC, Owner and CEO, Prodigal LLC
          Tim McLaughlin, Partner, Energy FC, Founder, Fields and Futures
          Jake Edwards, President, United Soccer League (USL)
          Peter Evans, Executive Director, Police Athletic League and Chairman-elect,
          South OKC Chamber of Commerce
          Steve Hahn, President, AT&T Oklahoma
          Bob Ross, President and CEO, Inasmuch Foundation
          Dr. Raul Font, Latino Community Development Agency
          Chuck Wiggin, President, Wiggin Properties
          Adrian DeWendt, President and CEO, Special Olympics Oklahoma
          Scott Dedmon, Principal, ADG
          Alexander P. Brown, Commissioner, Major League Lacrosse
          John White, President, OKC Crusaders Rugby


Video animation: http://aplacetobringustogether.com/documents/Animated%20Video.mp4 (http://aplacetobringustogether.com/documents/Animated%20Video.mp4)

Stadium is designed for future expansion to accommodate Major League Soccer and American football.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on March 02, 2019, 11:37:51 am
Cool looking stadium but is there support for this in OKC?  I have a hard time believing there would be enough support for a similar project in Tulsa unless an MLS team was involved. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 02, 2019, 07:47:36 pm

This will be a challenge. 

The USL has given a deadline for all USL teams to have a solid financed stadium plan submitted on or before 2020. 

Don't believe that many of the posters on OKCTalk message board realize the possibility that Oklahoma City Energy FC could be forced to sell the team if they are not committed to a soccer specific stadium.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on March 02, 2019, 07:58:23 pm
Got to spend a couple days in OKC last week.  Nice visit except for the ice!   Did finally get to go to Trappers Fishcamp!   Nice.  Looked all through the menu right up to the point where it said Crawfish Etouffee.  That's where I stopped - no point going further...




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 03, 2019, 01:15:26 pm

Oklahoma City to get Amazon Made-on-Demand Facility.


OKCTalk reports on 4th OKC Amazon facility

OKCTalk:  As Amazon is powering towards an opening later this year at its massive fulfillment center near Will Rogers Airport, the company has submitted plans to bring another large operation to Oklahoma City.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonmod4.jpg)

The on-line retail giant has leased 111,606 square feet of warehouse space located at 6101 SW 44th Street. The building was constructed by Industrial Developers of Oklahoma, the same Tulsa company that built Amazon's 300,000 square foot sortation operation at 1414 S. Council.

The new plant will produce made-on-demand items for Merch by Amazon, a service where content creators can upload their own artwork, have items printed (usually t-shirts and other clothing) and have it marketed on the Amazon website.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonmod1.jpg)
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonmod2.jpg)

When a product is sold, it is delivered through the Amazon Prime service and a royalty is paid to the creator.

Currently, printing items through Amazon is by invitation only through an application process.

A similar plant was just opened in suburban Philadelphia which contains 48 industrial printers, 16 giant dryers as well as pollution control equipment and has the ability to operate around the clock. The company is expected to open many more made-on-demand plants in the coming years.

Last year, Amazon was awarded a patent for its new automated system that facilitates the rapid production of clothing, enabling Amazon to create and ship directly to the customers, bypassing middlemen and the huge oversees manufacturers who currently make most clothing in the U.S.

The move is seen as competition for silk-screeners who customize the same sort of items for various customers.

The number of employees is not presently known.

This would be the fourth Amazon facility within Oklahoma City: 2,560,00 square foot fulfillment center at 9201 S. Portland, the previously mentioned sortation facility, and 60,000 square foot delivery warehouse at 4401 E. Hefner.

It is estimated the fulfillment center alone will create 1,750 full-time jobs.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonmod7.jpg)
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonmod6.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 03, 2019, 04:07:08 pm


Construction update on the Monarch Building in OKC's Midtown-Automobile Alley.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch030319a.jpg)
Images via OKCTalk Forum

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/monarch4.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 06, 2019, 01:20:08 pm
Excerpts from OKCTalk report:

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/10thf.jpg)

          Auto Alley redevelopment project will add to red-hot district (Auto Alley 11 & 23 NW 10th)

A local investment group has purchased two warehouse buildings near NW 10th and Broadway and is planning a full conversion to a mixed-use development.

     (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/10thc.jpg)
          
Last May, an LLC led by oil and gas and agriculture businessman Richard Hefner purchased the buildings and nearly half an acre for $1.325 million.

Hefner is developing retail and office properties in Shawnee.

The renovation plan by Common Works Architects calls for remaking the 1925 structures to create attractive new tenant spaces and make significant upgrades to the site to enhance pedestrian and vehicular access.

A section of each building will be slightly reduced in size to create more parking and allow for open-air tenant space.

The buildings will be re-oriented to each other and NW 10th Street.

No leases have been signed but the owners are working with multiple tenants.

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/foraker021719aa.jpg)

The project will add to the near one dozen development and restoration projects currently underway in the area east of Broadway Avenue in Automobile Alley.

Once largely blighted, dozens of buildings on either side of the railroad tracks have been transformed, at least partially fueled by a new quiet zone for trains and the streetcar which just began providing daily service along Broadway.

OKCTalk full story:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44941&p=1067292#post1067292 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44941&p=1067292#post1067292)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 09, 2019, 03:06:07 pm


Construction starting on $89 million expansion at Will Rogers Airport

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wrwa030619d.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wrwa030619i.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wrwa030619j.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wrwa030619b.jpg)

Images via OKCTalk forum


Frankfurt Short Bruza are the design engineers for this project expected to be completed in 2021.

The design will provide 145,000 sq. ft. of addition space; it will allow for 9 new gates.   Oklahoma City WWRA is the largest airport in the state; total domestic enplanements rose 3.1 percent from 2017 to 2018.

KWTV-News 9, Oklahoma Cityhttp://www.news9.com/story/39258754/will-rogers-world-airport-reveals-renderings-for-expansion-project (http://www.news9.com/story/39258754/will-rogers-world-airport-reveals-renderings-for-expansion-project)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 09, 2019, 03:14:18 pm

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ballpark021719.jpg)

OKCTalk update on Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; register & join the discussion @https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=29342&page=8&p=1067650#post1067650 (http://"https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=29342&page=8&p=1067650#post1067650")


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 09, 2019, 04:13:56 pm

WATCH Live

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjcRN5lU0AAVFxc.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvJN-sNR-gc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvJN-sNR-gc)

Watch the renovations unfold at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex - OGE Energy Field!

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball3.jpg)

What are some of key features of the renovations?

Some of the upgrades fans will notice while others will happen behind the scenes.

In Phase III of renovations, which begins in July of 2018, demolition to the outer entrance and press box area will begin.  When fans enter the Complex, they will be met by a beautiful rock and brick facade with new ticket windows and entrances to give the facility a more modern feel. For game day operations, a three-story press box will feature new interview rooms with tunnels leading from the team locker rooms, a broadcast booth and upgrades to existing technology infrastructure.  Elevators, meeting rooms and additional media work areas will also be added.

In Phase IV of renovations, which will begin after the 2019 NCAA WCWS®, the seating capacity expansion will begin.  Upper-deck seating will increase the capacity by an additional 4,000 seats while additional restrooms and suites will enhance the fan experience.

How are renovations possible?

Renovations to the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex - OGE Energy Field are possible following  the 2017 Proposition 5 Bond package that was approved by the citizens of Oklahoma City in September 2017.  This bond package, in addition to private funds raised, will allow for the two final phases of renovations to be completed in time for the 2020 NCAA Women's College World Series.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 10, 2019, 11:34:18 am
OKCTalk update pics on Don E. Porter, ASA Hall of Fame Stadium

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball030919a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball030919b.jpg)

Oklahoma City voters approved $27,500,000.00 to fund expansion & improvements to ASA softball stadium to increase seating capacity to 12,500 with a 4,000 seat upper deck; build the necessities like lockers rooms, TV booth for nationally televised games throughout the tournament.  These upgrades and expansion insured that the tournament will remain in Oklahoma City with a long-term commitment until 2035.

New 4,000 expansion upper deck seating will be available in time for the WCWS and World Cup of Softball Tournaments in 2020 and following years.

The WCWS has an estimated economic impact of $12 million to $15 million each year. The greatest portion of these dollars come from out-of-state visitors who fill our hotels, eat at our restaurants, shop at our stores, and visit other area attractions while they're here. Over the next few months, the city of Oklahoma City, with our help, will start major improvements to Hall of Fame Stadium. The improvements will create additional seating capacity and provide new restrooms and concessions, locker rooms, media rooms, a renovated press box and many more updates that will enhance the experience for the teams and fans.--Oklahoman, July 5, 2013

Join the discussion @OKCTalk:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=43218&page=2&p=1067662#post1067662 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=43218&page=2&p=1067662#post1067662)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 11, 2019, 02:51:47 pm
Oklahoma City Convention Center & Omni Hotel construction updates:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention030319a.jpg)
Convention Center construction

The 200,000-square-foot exhibit hall will dominate the ground floor.
A 45,000 square feet of meeting spaces are on all levels of the building, and many also have operable walls to make the spaces flexible.
A 30,000-square-foot ballroom is the main space on the fourth level, complemented by 10,000 square feet of pre-function space and a 4,000-square-foot balcony.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni030319a.jpg)
Omni Hotel


    605 guest rooms, inclusive of 29 suites with well-appointed furnishings and regional design influences
    One tower topping out at 17 floors
    Approximately 78,000 square feet of flexible meeting, event and pre-function space all conveniently located on the second floor
    Select guest rooms were designed to cater to professional basketball players and feature larger door frames, taller ceilings and shower heads and longer beds
    Multiple food and beverage options include an all-day dining restaurant; walk-up burger bar; Bob’s Steak & Chop House; emporium and coffee shop; two-level entertainment and      sports bar; pool bar and grill; and a lobby bar and lounge  Full-service spa with seven treatment rooms, relaxation room and dining area
    Modern fitness center
    Pool deck bar with views of Scissortail Park and its amphitheater
    Event lawn next to the pool deck and covered outdoor pre-function space overlooking Scissortail Park
    New street car stop conveniently located caddy-corner to the hotel





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: sooneralum2012 on March 11, 2019, 09:41:19 pm
Bob steakhouse? That’s a damn good get. I’ve been in Dallas a few times.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on March 12, 2019, 08:20:05 am
Bob steakhouse? That’s a damn good get. I’ve been in Dallas a few times.

The original Bob's on Lemon was (and I assume still is) awesome.  The rest are all solid but not like that one.  This one will be a "hotel steakhouse", so probably good, but not outstanding.  Kind of like Ruth's Chris.  We have the one here in Tulsa in the Casino, and while I'm sure it's good, there are others in town that I would go to first.     


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on March 12, 2019, 02:47:52 pm
The original Bob's on Lemon was (and I assume still is) awesome.  The rest are all solid but not like that one.  This one will be a "hotel steakhouse", so probably good, but not outstanding.  Kind of like Ruth's Chris.  We have the one here in Tulsa in the Casino, and while I'm sure it's good, there are others in town that I would go to first.     

Also like Arthur Bryant's in KC.  They used to have an outlet in the big Casino out by Worlds of Fun (Station I think it was called).  Now they have one at the Kansas Speedway they call Legends I guess.  But the original in DT KC on Brooklyn just can't be beat.  Best burnt ends ever.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 13, 2019, 04:34:32 pm

OKCTalk:  Carvana construction update pic

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana030919a.jpg)
Released March 13, 2019
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana4.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Vision 2025 on March 14, 2019, 01:04:14 pm
Wonder what one would do with it when the novelty wears off?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Townsend on March 15, 2019, 10:11:10 am
Wonder what one would do with it when the novelty wears off?

Fish tank for very large fish, giant houdini water escape tank, world's largest gumball machine...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 15, 2019, 12:07:20 pm
Fish tank for very large fish, giant houdini water escape tank, world's largest gumball machine...

LMAO!  Those are some pretty good uses...   


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 15, 2019, 12:25:50 pm
Preliminary plans approved for 1,100-space convention center garage

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-e515e11f871359ae1de308602a8f05ed.jpg)
The view of the future convention center garage is shown as it will appear from E.K. Gaylord looking north. The Boulevard Place apartments
and retail are shown at the northeast corner of the garage. [Renderings by TAP Architecture]

Quote
Preliminary plans for an 1,100-space garage that is key to development of the convention center, Omni Hotel and a mix of housing and retail won approval Thursday by a review committee with the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority...  ...The Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority, meanwhile, is preparing to start demolition of a former OGE Energy data center at the site, Oklahoma City Boulevard and E.K. Gaylord, within the next few weeks.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/oge031419d.jpg)
OG&E Data Center

Oklahoman: March 15, 2019--Lackmeyer:  https://www.oklahoman.com/preliminary-plans-approved-for-1100-space-garage/article/5625883

The cost for the convention center garage was estimated as high as $40 million.  Looks as though the city will be able to construct this venue for an estimated $27.5. $12.5 million below their highest estimate.  Bids on the garage will go out this summer.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 16, 2019, 12:28:29 pm

South Oklahoma City's 2,000 seat Roman Catholic Basilica
& Father Stanley Rother Shrine


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-79414743cfc9282bca677ea1a04460a5.jpg)

(https://francklohsen.com/images/resized/images/uploads/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine/blessed-stanley-rother-5_1351_938_80.jpg)

According to the Sooner Catholic (March 10, 2019 p. 3) the Father Stanley Rother Shine & 2,000 seat Basilica  ONE CHURCH, MANY DISCIPLES has exceeded its challenge goal of $80 million with $81,568,843 gifts/pledges to date 102%.

Sooner Catholic:  https://ecatholic-sites.s3.amazonaws.com/20256/documents/2019/3/Sooner%20Catholic%203-10-19.pdf (http://"https://ecatholic-sites.s3.amazonaws.com/20256/documents/2019/3/Sooner%20Catholic%203-10-19.pdf")

It is highly anticipated that the project is currently in the middle of about a year of pre-construction (value added designs, planning, regular design, budgeting, etc.) with target construction of this project to begin the 4th quarter of this year.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2019, 05:52:54 pm

Blessed Father Stanley Rother

Quote
McSherry unearthed a wooden box, deteriorated by a decade of moisture and turning to sawdust. The heart was enshrined inside a black plastic sheet.

"There was about a half-gallon jar with blood in it, and the metal part of the jar had rusted but the blood had not congealed," said McSherry, now a priest at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Oklahoma City.

Another excavation eyewitness, the Rev. Greg Schaffer, asked other priests to observe the fresh blood.

"It seemed to me blood would coagulate in a container over 10 years," said Schaffer, who still serves in the neighboring San Lucas Toliman mission in Guatemala.

Oklahoma Gazette - Heart of a martyr: https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/heart-of-a-martyr/Content?oid=2947451 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/heart-of-a-martyr/Content?oid=2947451)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 19, 2019, 08:00:37 am
Oklahoma City West Village Apartments' pic updates

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/westvillage031719a.jpg)
Pics via OKCTalk Forum
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/westvillage031719b.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 21, 2019, 11:26:20 am

 
New boutique hotel planned for OKC's Midtown


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-f8052d18b2cdb2e53b89e641e9e42fc1.jpg)
A six-story boutique hotel is proposed for the corner of NW 11 and Hudson Avenue. [Rendering by Elemental Architecture]


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-0224e1cdf8e968f60b2b36adf4a463bb.jpg)
 A six-story boutique hotel is the next addition to development underway along the 1200 block of N Hudson Avenue with the Elk Valley brewery, the future Hudson Street Market and headquarters for Resolution Legal Group shown to the left. [Rendering by Elemental Architecture]

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-c7fa9f71bc851e0ed636f1bf81f68e55.jpg)
The future site of a boutique hotel is shown in the lower right corner of this December photo next to the home of Elk Valley Brewing at 1212 N Hudson Ave.[Dave Morris/The Oklahoman]
 

A six-story boutique hotel is the next addition to development underway along the 1200 block of N Hudson Avenue with the Elk Valley brewery, the future Hudson Street Market and headquarters for Resolution Legal Group shown to the left. [Rendering by Elemental Architecture]

Oklahoman:  Thursday, March 21, 2019 | by Steve Lackmeyer:  https://www.oklahoman.com/new-boutique-hotel-planned-for-okcs-midtown/article/5626403 (https://www.oklahoman.com/new-boutique-hotel-planned-for-okcs-midtown/article/5626403)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 21, 2019, 11:40:33 am

Huge mixed-use project at NW Expressway and Penn set for rezoning
Published on 03-21-2019 06:34 AM - OKCTalk News:  https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=604-Huge-mixed-use-project-at-NW-Expressway-and-Penn-set-for-rezoning (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=604-Huge-mixed-use-project-at-NW-Expressway-and-Penn-set-for-rezoning)

On March 28th, the planning commission will consider applications to rezone several large tracts at the southwest corner of NW Expressway and Pennsylvania, a key step towards a huge proposed mixed-use development.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral032019c.jpg)

A group led by Tulsa developer Ryan McNeil looks to demolish two large office complexes and a handful of homes and replace them with a complex that would feature a movie theater, hotel, apartments, restaurant, retail and office space and structured parking.

OKCTalk was first to report on the plans last July when neighbors in the area were being asked for their support.

Titled Penn Central, the conceptual design by architects Wakefield Beasley & Associates is similar to Avalon in Alpharetta, Georgia, a popular and acclaimed mixed-use project that was designed by the same firm.

Under the plan, NW 50th would be realigned to tie into an existing light on Penn that currently leads into 50 Penn Place. New vehicle access would also be added from east-bound NW Expressway.

If passed by the planning commission, final approval by city council would be required.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral032019.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral032019b.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: patric on March 21, 2019, 01:01:09 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/penncentral032019c.jpg)

Their streetlights dont seem to put much light on the streets.  The shielded bollard lights are a good idea, though.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on March 21, 2019, 03:00:16 pm
That is the type of development I would like to see replace Promenade Mall.  Maintains its retail component but significantly less so and more concentrated in one avenue, with apartments, hotel and office.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 24, 2019, 10:45:40 am
Lighting has always been a problem here in OKC.  

As soon as the City or ODOT gets  the apparatus in place to repair or replace the outdoor lighting, the copper-scrap metal thieves are in a strategic place to attack; this happens on private as well as public developments.    We have had storm water street grill man hole covers stolen from the streets; I know, I drove over an uncovered one, did significant damage to my vehicle.

Thieves will savage anything they can get their hands on to turn a buck; yet it costs to the city thousands of dollars to replace.   Recall before they could get the S.E. 15th Street Bridge completed, thieves were stealing the aluminum rails on the side of the bridge elevated for pedestrian walk way.

More responsibility should be placed on the scrap metal buyers to question people about ownership who bring scrap metal (like man hole covers) into their operations;  these thieves should be arrested on the spot.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 24, 2019, 10:56:53 am


'Disruptive' I-235 project to begin in OKC

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-0136f6fed9156dd6f3f3b7b6ffd89281.jpg)

Sunday, March 24, 2019 | by Randy Ellis--Oklahoman

The honeymoon is about over for Interstate 235 commuters who have been enjoying a five-month respite from construction on the main thoroughfare that links Edmond and Oklahoma City.

Starting Monday, construction crews will begin work on a project to remake the I-235/I-44 interchange..

...The new interchange project will be complex, involving the building or reconstruction of 11 bridges, including the construction of two new flyover ramps that are designed to move traffic more efficiently from northbound I-235 to westbound I-44 and from eastbound I-44 to northbound I-235.

The flyover ramps, the tallest of which will be 70 feet in height, will replace the current cloverleaf ramps. Similar flyover ramps can be seen at the interchange involving the Kilpatrick Turnpike, State Highway 74 and Memorial Road in northwest Oklahoma City...

...Starting in mid-April and continuing through the fall, crews will be doing rehabilitation work on I-44 bridges over Deep Fork Creek between I-235 and Western Avenue. Major lane and ramp closures can be expected during the $6 million project, which is being done by Sherwood Construction of Tulsa.

Sometime within the next 45 days, crews also are expected to begin work on a project to replace and seal joints on the I-44 bridge over Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. One lane in each direction will be closed while work on the $410,000 project is in progress:  https://www.oklahoman.com/disruptive-i-235-project-to-begin-in-okc/article/5626720 (https://www.oklahoman.com/disruptive-i-235-project-to-begin-in-okc/article/5626720)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 24, 2019, 11:27:33 am


The Bower at Lee

Bower designed for families desiring urban living:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlFgJy5dJwc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KlFgJy5dJwc)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ae4c213a1779366a3d3f3416fa1fcca0.jpg)
The Bower is adding some infill to a long vacant block in Midtown, as shown looking northeast from NW 4 and Lee Avenue. [Dave Morris, The Oklahoman]

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-5b3835828cf81cb32aa560c497fe4751.jpg)
The Bower condominiums and townhomes are shown at NW 4 and Lee. [Doug Hoke/The Oklahoman]

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-c3884a152112d3e26897212250b3b26b.jpg)
A balcony at the Bower condominium and townhomes at NW 4 and Lee, has a view of the downtown skyline. [Doug Hoke/The Oklahoman]

Quote
The Bower, 625 NW 4, consists of two types of housing — eight free-standing, two-story brownstones and a 24-unit, five-story condominium tower.

Developer Richard McKown said the project came together when three sets of property owners on the block decided to join forces to build a project bigger than what they could do on their own.

The Bower at Lee:  https://www.oklahoman.com/bower-designed-for-families-desiring-urban-living/article/5626602 (https://www.oklahoman.com/bower-designed-for-families-desiring-urban-living/article/5626602)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 25, 2019, 11:12:33 pm


Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex pic update

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention032319a.jpg)

via OKCTalk Forum   03-25-2019


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 27, 2019, 12:55:28 pm
Miller & Johnson Law firm building


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/500nw61.jpg)

  Southwest corner of NW 6th and Walker, downtown Oklahoma City

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/mj110418c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/mj032619a.jpg)
Construction update pics via OKCTalk Forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 27, 2019, 01:37:14 pm

Oklahoma City downtown Scissortail Park & Myriad Gardens Botanical Park

Sensera live webcam: https://www.senserasystems.com/public/embed/M68776484796 (https://www.senserasystems.com/public/embed/M68776484796)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail031719a.jpg)
Scissortail Park construction just south of the Myriad Botanical Gardens separated by Oklahoma City Boulevard
Lower Scissortail Park will be south of I-40 Crosstown expressway linked by Skydance Bridge

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail032319b.jpg)

Park will be west of the new convention center & Omni Hotel complex and south of The Peake Arena.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/myriad050618.jpg)
Myriad Botanical Gardens
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/myriad101418.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk Forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 30, 2019, 11:16:06 pm

OKCTalk reports on proposed MAPS IV State Fair Arena replacement

As we were first to report in August 2016, the board of the state fairgrounds commissioned a study by consultants Populous to determine the feasibility and cost to construct a new multi-purpose facility to replace the aging Jim Norick Arena.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619d.jpg)

Norick Arena seats 8,500 in its typical configuration but can accommodate up to 11,000. Originally named the State Fairgrounds Arena, it opened in 1965; 1990s current facility received a renovation and slight expansion as part of the first MAPS initiative in the 1990's.

The City of Oklahoma City has used Populous to assist in the site selection and design of the MAPS 3 Convention Center and also commissioned other studies from the Kansas City-based firm, which has had a hand in dozens of arenas, ballparks and stadiums around the world.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619g.jpg)

As the vote for MAPS 4 approaches later this year, Mayor David Holt has mentioned this particular project may be included.

As proposed, the new arena would sit slightly southeast of the present arena site and be completely new from the ground up. It would also be attached to the new livestock barns that were recently added as part of MAPS 2 and directly across from the new Expo Building, which was recently completed as part of MAPS 3.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619r.jpg)

The plans drawn by Populous and ADG also call for a small horse/livestock arena to be built between the existing barns and the new facility, along with more barn and multi-purpose space.

Other features include two large plazas, suites, and retractable upper-level seating. A lounge and restaurants are also part of the proposal.

Flexibility would allow for the easy configuration for equestrian/rodeo with a capacity of 5,500 to basketball, circus, ice shows and concerts that could host over 9,000 attendees.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619q.jpg)

A phased construction plan would allow Norick Arena to remain operational during the construction of the Coliseum.

The established budget is just over $96 million. The Populous study claims an annual economic impact of $330 million.

If the plan becomes part of a MAPS 4 vote, it would do so against a background of public backlash surrounding several recent demolitions at State Fair Park, including the landmark Space Needle which came down late last year. Concern has also been raised about similar removals of the monorail and speedway, as many see the park as eliminating sentimental favorites in favor of equine and livestock facilities.

The State Fair Park is operated by Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. on behalf of the City of Oklahoma City, which owns all the property and buildings. Board meetings of Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. are not public, nor is detailed financial information.


          Basketball            9,354
          Ice Hockey         8,250 est*
          Ice Shows            6,192
          Stage Events        9,282

*Based on seats behind dasher boards & upper deck retractable seats


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: DowntownDan on April 01, 2019, 08:41:17 am

South Oklahoma City's 2,000 seat Roman Catholic Basilica
& Father Stanley Rother Shrine


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-79414743cfc9282bca677ea1a04460a5.jpg)

(https://francklohsen.com/images/resized/images/uploads/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine/blessed-stanley-rother-5_1351_938_80.jpg)

According to the Sooner Catholic (March 10, 2019 p. 3) the Father Stanley Rother Shine & 2,000 seat Basilica  ONE CHURCH, MANY DISCIPLES has exceeded its challenge goal of $80 million with $81,568,843 gifts/pledges to date 102%.

Sooner Catholic:  https://ecatholic-sites.s3.amazonaws.com/20256/documents/2019/3/Sooner%20Catholic%203-10-19.pdf (http://"https://ecatholic-sites.s3.amazonaws.com/20256/documents/2019/3/Sooner%20Catholic%203-10-19.pdf")

It is highly anticipated that the project is currently in the middle of about a year of pre-construction (value added designs, planning, regular design, budgeting, etc.) with target construction of this project to begin the 4th quarter of this year.

Seems out of place for suburban OKC, but if they can afford it, okay then.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 01, 2019, 09:07:09 am
Seems out of place for suburban OKC, but if they can afford it, okay then.

The Oklahoma City Archdiocese purchased the 53-acre Brookside Golf Course at 9016 S Shields for $2.1 million in March 2015, according to Cleveland County Court Clerk records.  

The Roman Catholic Church has experienced tremendous growth south of OKC's I-40 crosstown.  The 89th Street areas just west of I-35 is where the OKC Archdioceses found to be the best areas to connect this emerging growth of the churches in Moore-Norman with those in South Oklahoma City.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 03, 2019, 08:35:12 pm

The proposed development plan envisions an indoor and outdoor restaurant experience, a new location for Thunder Alley – which will also be used for Thunder special events including their annual summer basketball camps – and a new plaza at the intersection of Oklahoma City Boulevard and Thunder Drive designed to be an extension to the existing Southwest entry to Chesapeake Arena.

   
OKC Thunder proposes new Thunder Alley Entertainment Block

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2019/04/thunder-alley-design-concept.png?w=1302)

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2019/04/thunder-alley-entertainment-block.png?w=1303)

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2019/04/taeb.png?w=1303)

The Oklahoma City Thunder has submitted a conceptual proposal for a new Thunder Alley Entertainment Block to be opened in 2021.

    “It is important that the entertainment block strike a balance between being open and inviting while simultaneously providing a secure place for people to enjoy dinner and other pre-game and post-game activities.”

The covered exterior dining area will be equipped with 3 food truck “docking stations.” The Thunder special events venue is designed to be open air, but covered.

The design includes a pedestrian bridge between the arena and the restaurant.

    “We envision a seamless connection between the Arena and the entertainment block.”

The plaza will house an approximately 24’ diameter basketball sculpture with a mirror finish, a design Thunder officials hope becomes “‘THE’ place for photographic opportunities in Oklahoma City.”

Lighting around the entertainment block will be capable of color change appropriate to the occasion, whether it be a Thunder game or a Christmas event.

    “The development will be guided by the level of quality that has become known as the Thunder Organization Design Standard. From conceptual design through the opening tipoff, this level of excellence that the Thunder expects and demands will be honored.”

Officials also plan to begin a future Thunder “Ring of Honor,” similar to bronze statues located in front of Staples Arena.

The remainder of the site will be developed as a controlled surface parking lot for approximately 70 cars.

The parking area may also host food truck events, street basketball events, and other temporary events.

    “The parking area will also be used as an off loading and parking site for the trucks that move traveling shows from Arena to Arena. For example, U2 has not come to OKC because our arena does not have room to park the 16-18 semi-trucks that support their show. The BOK in Tulsa, on the other hand, has hosted them because they can park their vehicles.”

Construction is projected to begin in 2021 and Grand Opening Day is expected to be April 15, 2021.


Oklahoma News 4: https://kfor.com/2019/04/03/okc-thunder-proposes-new-thunder-alley-entertainment-block/ (http://"https://kfor.com/2019/04/03/okc-thunder-proposes-new-thunder-alley-entertainment-block/")


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 06, 2019, 01:26:46 pm






 
OKCTalk reports on Costco opening

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/costco040519a.jpg)


  Join the discussion at OKCTalk.com: https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34911&page=44&p=1071058#post1071058 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34911&page=44&p=1071058#post1071058)

  Costco Looks To Hire Employees For Oklahoma City Location

(http://kwtv.images.worldnow.com/images/18251201_G.jpeg)
   

  Link:  Costco Looks To Hire Employees For Oklahoma City Location:  http://www.news9.com/story/40204955/costco-looks-to-hire-employees-for-oklahoma-city-location (http://www.news9.com/story/40204955/costco-looks-to-hire-employees-for-oklahoma-city-location)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on April 06, 2019, 04:01:43 pm
Good to see Costco finally open in OKC.  We’ve had one in Tulsa for 3 years.  :P


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 06, 2019, 08:19:47 pm
Good to see Costco finally open in OKC.  We’ve had one in Tulsa for 3 years.  :P

Tulsa has always had an advantage on reputable retail & wholesale establishments than OKC.   We are on the radar and quickly becoming more attractive for these types of establishments.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 07, 2019, 10:34:22 am
Oklahoma City' Omni is rising with convention center
under construction in the background


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni040619a.jpg)

Pic via OKCTalk Forum
Join the discussion at OKCTalk:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=82 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=82)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 07, 2019, 03:21:14 pm

Kimray moving forward with new headquarters

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/kimray040519c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/kimray040519b.jpg)

Join the discussion as OKCTalk reports: https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=36576&page=4 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=36576&page=4)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 08, 2019, 04:01:49 pm

 Oklahoma City State Fair Arena replacement

Video Presentation of State Fair Park OKC Coliseum:  https://youtu.be/P4Dz3_K95Zo (https://youtu.be/P4Dz3_K95Zo)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619d.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619g.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619h.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619j.jpg)

And now a press release through their PR firm:

*****************


Study Shows Benefits of Replacing Jim Norick Arena
‘Big House’ has served state’s athletes, international competitions for 54 years

OKLAHOMA CITY (April 8, 2019) – Replacing the famous Jim Norick Arena – known as “The Big House” – at State Fair Park would provide an economic boost to Oklahoma City, according to a new study.

Crossroads Consulting, a nationally recognized expert in large public venue (LPV) consulting, found a new State Fair Park Coliseum would generate more than $230 million a year in direct spending and more than $400 million a year in total economic impact.

“‘The Big House’ has provided lifelong memories for high school athletes from across the state for generations and helped make Oklahoma City the ‘Horse Show Capital of the World,’” said Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. President & CEO Tim O’Toole. “Unfortunately, the building is rapidly approaching the end of its useful life. The Crossroads study shows how much is at risk and how our entire community will benefit from investing in a new coliseum.”

Additionally, Crossroads said a new coliseum would generate 10 percent more direct spending than the existing facility and create an extra 370 total jobs a year.

State Fair Park is an important economic driver and gathering place for Oklahoma City, the report found. Over the last three years, it has averaged a total attendance of more than 2.15 million visitors annually. The park’s visitors generated more economic impact than three other city-owned facilities combined over the last three years – Cox Convention Center, Chesapeake Energy Arena and Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.

“The report shows how important it is to invest in state-of-the-art facilities which will continue to attract people from the metro area, the state and the rest of the world,” O’Toole said.

In January 2017, the City of Oklahoma City, which owns State Fair Park, commissioned an architectural firm to create plans for a modern coliseum with more than 4,700 fixed seats, 2,600 retractable seats and premium amenities such as suites, box seating and club opportunities.

Construction is expected to cost $95 million, and plans call for keeping the Norick Arena open during the process to minimize disruption.

“Building a new facility would have clear benefits for the Oklahoma City community. This need has been acknowledged for several years by the City of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma State Fair, Inc. The expected MAPS program to fund capital improvements presents an exceptional opportunity to secure funding for a project of this magnitude,” O’Toole said. “We look forward to voters continuing to support the world-class facilities at State Fair Park as we fulfill our mission of economic development through tourism.”

About Oklahoma State Fair, Inc.
Oklahoma State Fair, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation that serves the people of Oklahoma and is dedicated to continuing the organization’s heritage of education, entertainment and economic development through the operation of State Fair Park and the annual Oklahoma State Fair.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on April 09, 2019, 07:59:22 am
Surely those economic impact numbers are BS. $410 million annual return on a $95 million investment? No way building a new arena increases attendance that much. Moreover, state fair attendees are coming from within 100 miles so the total economic impact is significantly reduced because those are dollars spent at the fair instead of the mall. Not a huge difference.

I'm all for upgrading public assets. I event like the design. But don't tell clear mistruths to the public to sell some pet project.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: buffalodan on April 09, 2019, 08:03:59 am
https://twitter.com/BentFlyvbjerg

I've been following him recently and reading some of his articles/books. It is really helps bring a light to some of the numbers people throw around about large scale projects.

Surely those economic impact numbers are BS. $410 million annual return on a $95 million investment? No way building a new arena increases attendance that much. Moreover, state fair attendees are coming from within 100 miles so the total economic impact is significantly reduced because those are dollars spent at the fair instead of the mall. Not a huge difference.

I'm all for upgrading public assets. I event like the design. But don't tell clear mistruths to the public to sell some pet project.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 09, 2019, 08:54:38 am
Just want to add that from a personal standpoint of what I have seen at State Fair Park in OKC; there are always activities going on at this 440 acre complex from gun shows, conventions, boat shows, appliance & furniture exhibits.

Here are samplings of some events staged at the Norick State Fair Arena:

      April
      Oklahoma Quarter Horse Spring Show
      AQHA Level One Central Championship
      Better Barrel Races World Finals
      
      June
      NRHA Derby
      Arabian Horse Association Youth Nationals

      July
      Arabian Horse Association Youth Nationals

      August      
      AQHYA World Championship
      Summer Shootout Barrel Race
      Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
      
      September
      Oklahoma State Fair

      October
      Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show
      Cinch USTRC National Finals

      November
      AQHA World Championship
      NRHA Futurity
      
      December
      World Championship Barrel Racing Futurity

Replacement of the Jim Norick State Fair Arena is long overdue.  

State Fair Park events:  https://statefairparkokc.com/schedule? (https://statefairparkokc.com/schedule?)










Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on April 09, 2019, 09:04:08 am
Just want to add that from a personal standpoint of what I have seen at State Fair Park in OKC; there are always activities going on at this 440 acre complex from gun shows, conventions, boat shows, appliance & furniture exhibits.

Here are samplings of some events staged at the Norick State Fair Arena:

      April
      Oklahoma Quarter Horse Spring Show
      AQHA Level One Central Championship
      Better Barrel Races World Finals
      
      June
      NRHA Derby
      Arabian Horse Association Youth Nationals

      July
      Arabian Horse Association Youth Nationals

      August      
      AQHYA World Championship
      Summer Shootout Barrel Race
      Christian Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses
      
      September
      Oklahoma State Fair

      October
      Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show
      Cinch USTRC National Finals

      November
      AQHA World Championship
      NRHA Futurity
      
      December
      World Championship Barrel Racing Futurity

Replacement of the Jim Norick State Fair Arena is long overdue.  

State Fair Park events:  https://statefairparkokc.com/schedule? (https://statefairparkokc.com/schedule?)



The arena at Tulsa's fairgrounds is far older than Norick Arena, by 33 years. And in no way should The Pavilion be replaced.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on April 09, 2019, 09:19:24 am
The arena at Tulsa's fairgrounds is far older than Norick Arena, by 33 years. And in no way should The Pavilion be replaced.

Well we Tulsans have quaint ideas about the value of history.


I genuinely don't care if they want to invest money, even state money, in the fair grounds. Our state should have great public buildings of which we're proud. But, its not like everything they do now will disappear in a year if they don't replace the arena and it also won't revolutionize the fair industry if they do replace it. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 09, 2019, 02:52:07 pm
The arena at Tulsa's fairgrounds is far older than Norick Arena, by 33 years. And in no way should The Pavilion be replaced.

Swake, you've had several renovations to the Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion.   The OKC State Fair Arena was thrown up with $2 million in 1963; a mini version of Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix.  Your Fairgrounds Pavilion was built back in the 1930s (WPA era), same as when OKC built the 6,200 seat Municipal Auditorium; these architecturally solid buildings stand strong today.

OKC's expanded entrance to State Fair Arena was the only renovation (besides paint) completed prior before the roof started falling apart.  SFA is a far inferior building than the Tulsa State Fair complex that includes IIRC one of the largest (200,000 sq.ft.) free clear-span buildings in the world under one roof.

The 75ft tall Tulsa Golden Driller statue makes Dallas' 55ft tall Big Tex look like a midget.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on April 09, 2019, 06:53:19 pm
Swake, you've had several renovations to the Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion.   The OKC State Fair Arena was thrown up with $2 million in 1963; a mini version of Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix.  Your Fairgrounds Pavilion was built back in the 1930s (WPA era), same as when OKC built the 6,200 seat Municipal Auditorium; these architecturally solid buildings stand strong today.

OKC's expanded entrance to State Fair Arena was the only renovation (besides paint) completed prior before the roof started falling apart.  SFA is a far inferior building than the Tulsa State Fair complex that includes IIRC one of the largest (200,000 sq.ft.) free clear-span buildings in the world under one roof.

The 75ft tall Tulsa Golden Driller statue makes Dallas' 55ft tall Big Tex look like a midget.

According to the Expo Square website, the Expo Building, currently called River Spirit Expo Building, is 448,000 square feet with 354,000 of it being clear span. It's a very big building.

https://www.exposquare.com/p/planning/facilities--floor-plans/296


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on April 10, 2019, 07:27:11 am
Expo had to be big to house the International Petroleum Exposition it was built for.  Even then, it spilled out over most of the area to the north - it was as big as the State Fair for displays and stuff.   And I went to a few of those - couple before the Expo and two after the Expo was built.  

Then it went out of business...


https://www.okhistory.org/publications/enc/entry.php?entry=IN030





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on April 10, 2019, 09:59:59 am
Swake, you've had several renovations to the Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion.   The OKC State Fair Arena was thrown up with $2 million in 1963; a mini version of Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Phoenix.

You're not even close on that claim. Veterans Memorial in Phoenix, and OKC Fair arena opened with in weeks of each other in 1965. The Big House is not a smaller copy of Veterans Memorial.



Quote
Newspaper reports state that The Arizona State Fair Commission began planning for an "Arizona State Fairgrounds Exposition Center" as early as the fall of 1962. The Commission envisioned an indoor facility which could be used during the State Fair as well as year-round. In 1964, Phoenix architect Leslie Mahoney, of the Lescher and Mahoney firm (designers of the Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix among others) presented the commission with the final plans, and construction began that summer. Tucson architect Lew Place (son of University of Arizona chief campus architect Roy Place, and who later took over his father's firm) was also involved in the design. The structural engineering firm was T. Y. Lin International.[3]

The unique saddle-shaped, tension-cable roof, supporting over 1,000 precast concrete panels, was considered innovative architectural engineering at the time. It may have been at least partially influenced by the equally innovative Dorton Arena at the North Carolina State Fair in Raleigh, completed in 1952. Veterans Memorial Coliseum also contains a series of murals by Phoenix artist Paul Coze. The design influenced later arenas' architecture, including the now-defunct Capital Centre in Landover, Maryland, and the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta.

Broke ground   August 11, 1964[1]
Opened   November 3, 1965

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona_Veterans_Memorial_Coliseum (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona_Veterans_Memorial_Coliseum)



Quote
The Big House
Former names   Fairgrounds Arena
Address   333 Gordon Cooper Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73107
Location   Oklahoma City, Oklahoma USA
Owner   City of Oklahoma City
Operator   Oklahoma State Fair Park
Capacity   10,944
Opened   1965

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Norick_Arena (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Norick_Arena)

Phoenix

https://goo.gl/maps/UyYfj4MYbD12 (https://goo.gl/maps/UyYfj4MYbD12)

OKC

https://goo.gl/maps/FtBBZkaj7a52 (https://goo.gl/maps/FtBBZkaj7a52)

You could take Jim Norick Arena and the Page Belcher Fed. Court House and use them for the back drop of a Soviet military base during the cold war.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 11, 2019, 11:28:25 am
You're not even close on that claim. Veterans Memorial in Phoenix, and OKC Fair arena opened with in weeks of each other in 1965. The Big House is not a smaller copy of Veterans Memorial.



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona_Veterans_Memorial_Coliseum (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arizona_Veterans_Memorial_Coliseum)



https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Norick_Arena (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Norick_Arena)

Phoenix

https://goo.gl/maps/UyYfj4MYbD12 (https://goo.gl/maps/UyYfj4MYbD12)

OKC

https://goo.gl/maps/FtBBZkaj7a52 (https://goo.gl/maps/FtBBZkaj7a52)

You could take Jim Norick Arena and the Page Belcher Fed. Court House and use them for the back drop of a Soviet military base during the cold war

Good research dbacksfan 2.0,  Thanks for the correction.  Can't believe everything to hear out there.  Just so use to many of the projects and developments we construct in Oklahoma being smaller versions of things built it other states--I took the bait!  LMAO!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 11, 2019, 11:31:56 am
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/capitol092218e.jpg)
Update pick on the construction at the State Capitol Building via OKCTalk


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 11, 2019, 11:52:41 am
Oklahoma City's downtown Scissortail Park progress via OKCTalk

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissor040619b.jpg)
Looking north over the old Union Station depot
 
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissor040619c.jpg)
Upper park development


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 11, 2019, 12:12:59 pm
(https://static.wixstatic.com/media/082363_965220f079f74fa2ad45d34685f206cd~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_630,h_355,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/082363_965220f079f74fa2ad45d34685f206cd~mv2.jpg)
Now, this $465 million park of all parks in the U.S. makes all Oklahomans proud; including myself.   Thank you George Kaiser.

My son, who lives in Tulsa gives me great raves about the Gathering Place.  He is an OTR truck driver; he been all over the U. S., so I've got to take him at his word.

We a building a 70 plus acre park (Scissortail) with the 40 acres upper park, downtown & 30 acre of the park extends south beyond the Skydance Bridge.  Hope we can learn from 'The Gathering Place' where the word is spreading about how awesome this place is in Tulsa.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 11, 2019, 12:35:46 pm



Best of luck in the 1st round of the NBA playoffs to our Oklahoma City Thunder...

(https://www.nba.com/.element/media/2.0/teamsites/thunder/playoffs-schedule-r1-1819.png)

...opening against the Portland Trailblazers in 'The Rose City."



.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 16, 2019, 10:25:26 am


  Boeing OKC secures $14.3 billion committment from Air Force

   (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-8a143f3b62783482ae263fbd8ad6ffd9.jpg)
 A B-52 makes a connection with a refueling boom during a practice refueling flight of an Air Force Reserve KC-135 Stratotanker out of Tinker Air Force Base in this photo from 2016. [The Oklahoman Archives]

Tuesday, April 16, 2019 | by Dale Denwalt

The Department of Defense has approved a $14.3 billion contract to Boeing Co. for work on B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress aircraft in Oklahoma City.

The contract will be for modification, modernization, engineering, sustainment and tests of the bombers' weapons systems. Funds can be allocated with separate task orders over the next 10 years.

Work will be done at Tinker Air Force Base, which is a significant part of the Air Force's maintenance, repair and overhaul network. Tinker already has been selected as the maintenance site for the long-range stealth bomber known as the B-21 Raider, which eventually will replace the B-1 and B-52. The Raider is expected to be delivered sometime in the mid 2020s.

Tinker is home to maintenance operations for several large military aircraft, including the new KC-46A Pegasus refueling tanker. Hangars for the Pegasus are now under construction at the base.

The contract that was announced last week will be a continuation of a similar contract awarded a decade ago to service the U.S. Air Force aircraft. A statement from the Pentagon noted the contract could include hardware and software development and integration, ground and flight testing, configuration management, studies and analyses and modernization.

"That's great news for our workforce here," Boeing spokeswoman Lori Rasmussen said. "Boeing's employment numbers in Oklahoma have been on an upward trend. They are expected to remain so. The bombers' modernization efforts will continue to play a significant role in the growth of the Oklahoma City site."

Boeing's first project under the new award will be for an advanced extremely high-frequency communications integration study costing an expected $1.2 million, Rasmussen said.

Boeing was the only company solicited for the contract because it is the original equipment manufacturer and owns all airframe and systems data, which limits the ability for competition, the Pentagon said.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 16, 2019, 02:25:05 pm
 
Oklahoma City new Convention Center Complex construction update

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni040619a.jpg)
605 room 17 story Omni Hotel with convention center in the background.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni041519a.jpg)
Construction started on the 200,000 sq.,ft exhibition hall top left & below.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention040619a.jpg)

Above pics via OKCTalk forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 16, 2019, 04:57:04 pm
    
Oklahoma City convention center parking garage complex

          Estimated costs: $27,979,172
          Floors: 6 plus basement
          Spaces available: 1,100 plus
          Total Square Feet: 412,645
          Bids:  Summer 2019


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ccgararge031519e.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventiongarage032019a.jpg)


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventiongarage032019b.jpg)


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni041519a.jpg)
Garage will be built on the site of the gold facade building purchased by the City from OG&E

 Pics via OKCTalk Forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on April 17, 2019, 03:16:01 pm

Now, this $465 million park of all parks in the U.S. makes all Oklahomans proud; including myself.   Thank you George Kaiser.

My son, who lives in Tulsa gives me great raves about the Gathering Place.  He is an OTR truck driver; he been all over the U. S., so I've got to take him at his word.

We a building a 70 plus acre park (Scissortail) with the 40 acres upper park, downtown & 30 acre of the park extends south beyond the Skydance Bridge.  Hope we can learn from 'The Gathering Place' where the word is spreading about how awesome this place is in Tulsa. [/center]


He should know!   He has seen a lot, no doubt.


Run this by him sometime and see if he says, "Amen!!"  Truck driver vlogger talking about the lies the company always tells you...  (If they are talking, they are lying!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A4Ct1LVVUTY




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2019, 10:33:14 am
 
Kratos will build 'wingman' drone in OKC

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-8bce1bf809299f4e17737168b0e06b45.jpg)

     Thursday, April 18, 2019 | by Dale Denwalt

At 30 feet long, the Valkyrie looks the part of a fighter jet and could be fitted with armament to support combat missions, and Kratos Defense officials said Wednesday it will be built in Oklahoma City.

The Valkyrie is a step up from the target drones now manufactured by the San Diego-based defense contractor, including the company's MQM-178 Firejet. The Firejet, also built in Oklahoma City, was on display Wednesday as Kratos celebrated the completion of the first unmanned aerial jets at its new manufacturing warehouse at Will Rogers Business Park.

Six Firejets already have been built here at the 101,000-square-foot warehouse, which remains sparsely furnished. Bare walls enclose a nearly empty office area. The production floor, at the moment, has much more space than Kratos can seemingly use.

However, Unmanned Systems Division President Steven Fendley said Kratos soon will need that space, and possibly more in the future.

"We'll be ramping that production capability up to as many as 350 (Firejets) per year in the short term," Fendley said. "As our production requirements go up, as our production contracts increase, we expect to need that space and we look forward to it."

Kratos' announcement that the Valkyrie will be built in Oklahoma earned a standing ovation from the crowd assembled inside the warehouse, which included employees, members of Congress and Gov. Kevin Stitt. Fendley declined to say when production would begin.

The Valkyrie had its maiden flight last month. It's capable of long-range flight at high sub-sonic speeds, the company said.

"It's basically a manned-aircraft size," Fendley said. "It has a bomb bay. It can carry ordnance. It can carry sensor systems that allow you to locate the enemy. It's intended to be a wing man."

While parts for the Firejet are manufactured in California, Kratos brings them to Oklahoma to integrate, assemble, test, crate and deliver them to its client, the U.S. Army. Once the company fills out its production facility in Oklahoma with machinery and an autoclave to manufacture composite materials, all of the small parts will be built here.

"For the most part, all the parts for the Firejet will be built here in this facility by the end of this calendar year," Fendley said.

Kratos has 20 employees in Oklahoma, but officials said they expect to grow the company's Oklahoma workforce to between 350 and 550 over the next three to five years.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2019, 10:48:04 am
   
CannaCon event will be at Cox Convention Center in OKC on Thursday and Friday

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-fc0b96c3edf0df517f2686fea811d8fe.jpg)
Marijuana plants growing at a production facility, 1120 S. McKinley. Tuesday, April 16, 2019. Photo by Jim Beckel, The Oklahoman.



     Thursday, April 18, 2019 | by David Dishman

Nearly 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors are expected to attend the CannaCon marijuana convention in Oklahoma City on Thursday and Friday.

Held at the Cox Convention Center, the event is designed for those in or thinking about joining the industry.

“Anything you could need to start or run a business in the cannabis industry you could find here,” CannaCon Marketing Director Angela Grelle said.

The convention sold 3,000 tickets as of Wednesday afternoon, Grelle said, with more expected to be sold Thursday and Friday. She is expecting up to 5,000 visitors.

Tickets for the event range from $40 to $150, depending on number of days and seminars an individual plans on attending.

“I would tell people to come early if they are registering because there will be long lines,” Grelle said.

Registration starts at 9 a.m., and the convention runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.

Seminars are scheduled throughout the conference, covering subjects such as laboratory testing, complying with regulations, payroll and human resources issues, THC extraction, grow strategies and more.

Oklahoma’s implementation of medical marijuana has led to rapid growth for many companies, and many seminars are catered to providing assistance for the necessary tasks that accompany expanding companies.

The convention has other stops planned later this year in Detroit and Springfield, Massachusetts, before returning to Oklahoma City in September.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2019, 11:01:56 am
    
Downtown Sheraton to take on more "contemporary" look

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-8e28c3f2ccc919d1c615e1a73e048f14.jpg)
The next phase of ongoing renovations at the downtown Sheraton Hotel includes a new paint job on the exterior that will change the earth tones to a more contemporary gray and white. [PROVIDED]


Quote
The most recent phase of improvements included $1.9 million spent on a “refresh” of the hotel lobby, restaurants and meeting rooms. Other recent improvements included creation of an outdoor courtyard extending from its restaurant at the corner of Broadway and Sheridan avenues...

...Other upcoming improvements will include the outdoor pool deck, new furnishings and a cabana lounge. The final phase, a revamp of the hotel’s 396 rooms, is expected to cost between $4 million and $5 million.

     Thursday, April 18, 2019 | by Steve Lackmeyer

Oklahoman link: https://www.oklahoman.com/downtown-sheraton-to-take-on-more-contemporary-look/article/5629033 (https://www.oklahoman.com/downtown-sheraton-to-take-on-more-contemporary-look/article/5629033)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: buffalodan on April 18, 2019, 03:41:44 pm
"contemporary gray and white" makes me sad. You go to architecture school for years and come out and think "you know what the world needs, less pigment"

   
Downtown Sheraton to take on more "contemporary" look

The next phase of ongoing renovations at the downtown Sheraton Hotel includes a new paint job on the exterior that will change the earth tones to a more contemporary gray and white. [PROVIDED]


     Thursday, April 18, 2019 | by Steve Lackmeyer

Oklahoman link: https://www.oklahoman.com/downtown-sheraton-to-take-on-more-contemporary-look/article/5629033 (https://www.oklahoman.com/downtown-sheraton-to-take-on-more-contemporary-look/article/5629033)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2019, 09:39:19 am


     
Scissortail Park progress update

(https://journalrecord.com/files/2018/08/bb-lower-park-emmy-4.jpg)

YouTube video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QbZFA6U0jQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QbZFA6U0jQ)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on April 19, 2019, 10:02:21 am
"contemporary gray and white" makes me sad. You go to architecture school for years and come out and think "you know what the world needs, less pigment"




"Contemporary" - to 1936 prison or battleship colors.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2019, 10:11:11 am
Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area 2018-2017:

1,396,445 - 1,383,242 increase +13,196

(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1890/43738255014_80d94c9d86_b.jpg)


At this rate of increase over the previous 3 years, Oklahoma City MSA should exceed 1,440,000 when the 2020 report comes out in 2021.

How OKC compares to our NBA small market peers:

     Memphis 1,350,620 - 1,347,596 increase +3.044
     Milwaukee 1,576,113 - 1,575,151 increase +962
     New Orleans 1,270,399 - 1,270,465 decrease -66
     Oklahoma City 1,396,445 - 1,383,242 increase +13,196
     Salt Lake City 1,222,340 - 1,205,238 increase +17,305

Hope we can eclipse the 20,000 year increase in the MSA.  The projected estimates have been  pretty accurate by the census bureau.  We are the core of our state's population increase.

The OKC economy use to be heavily dependent on the energy sector; diversification has helped over the last 25 years.

Census:  https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2010s-total-metro-and-micro-statistical-areas.html (https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/popest/2010s-total-metro-and-micro-statistical-areas.html)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2019, 10:42:28 am


Oklahoma City Town Center at Remington Park



(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/remingtontc.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/remington030919a.jpg)

Join the discussion at OKCTalk forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45032 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45032)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on April 19, 2019, 11:07:39 am

Hope we can eclipse the 20,000 year increase in the MSA.  The projected estimates have been  pretty accurate by the census bureau.  We are the core of our state's population increase.

The OKC economy use to be heavily dependent on the energy sector; diversification has helped over the last 25 years.

Yeah we still have any over-reliance on the energy sector in Tulsa though that is changing.  OKC has a more diversified economy and OU in the metro which helps with population growth.  I do think the seeds have been planted for Tulsa to have more similar growth as OKC this next decade.  The state depends on it as the rural areas and small towns will continue to bleed people.  Look at this map:

(https://www.census.gov/content/census/en/library/visualizations/2019/comm/percent-pop-change-county/jcr:content/map.detailitem.950.high.jpg/1555532084818.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2019, 12:01:40 pm
Yeah we still have any over-reliance on the energy sector in Tulsa though that is changing.  OKC has a more diversified economy and OU in the metro which helps with population growth.  I do think the seeds have been planted for Tulsa to have more similar growth as OKC this next decade.  The state depends on it as the rural areas and small towns will continue to bleed people.  Look at this map:

(https://www.census.gov/content/census/en/library/visualizations/2019/comm/percent-pop-change-county/jcr:content/map.detailitem.950.high.jpg/1555532084818.jpg)

You'll see a boost in Tulsa's population within the next 10 years.  Tulsa's becoming more diversified in commerce; let's not write off the energy sector, it has its ups and downs.  Just wish we (OKC) has the beautiful hills and terrain Green Country possesses.  You'll see a break-thru in the Tulsa metro area;  seeing lots of development (Gathering Place & firm expansion-investment) on TulsaNow forum that plants the seeds for accelerated growth in T-town's future. 

 A city like Austin is growing so fast; they have future challenges to keep up with the infrastructure demand.
 
One good thing about growth; it works well when you plan and manage growth; once it get out-of-control--anything can happen.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 25, 2019, 12:07:46 pm
First National Center renovation

The total cost of the project is a whopping $287 million
City voted to lend the project $45 million in TIF dollars.
First National Center is a Tax Increment Finance District.

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/DougLoudenback/1stnational/1stnationalpostcards.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc012019a.jpg)


Developer Gives First Look At Hotel Rooms, Apartments At First National In Downtown OKC:  https://www.news9.com/story/40232869/developer-gives-first-look-at-hotel-rooms-apartments-at-first-national-in-downtown-okc (https://www.news9.com/story/40232869/developer-gives-first-look-at-hotel-rooms-apartments-at-first-national-in-downtown-okc)


Mixed-use apartments & hotel center:  Marriott Autography 5-star
Six restaurants, including a Ruth' Chris steakhouse are going in at the hotel
146 hotel rooms and 190 apartments



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 26, 2019, 08:56:59 am
OKC Convention Center Complex & Scissortail Park will be a welcome addition to the core.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail042219b.jpg)
                    OKC planned park, convention center, Omni hotel & streetcar route are positioned in the map above.
                    The gold building (lower left) now being demolished will make room for the CC garage & Boulevard Place.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissor040619a.jpg)
Skydance Bridge, walkable link to the upper downtown & lower southside sections of Scissortail Park
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissor040619b.jpg)

Historic Union Station Depot (below) will be repurposed, renovated and included in future plans; view looking north into the park & convention center under construction.  MAPS 3 (debt free) & 2017 General Obligation Bond initiatives will provide a combined $1.8 billion of new construction exclusive of private development.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 01, 2019, 02:58:07 pm
Grand Development

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-6a39724d9d8086eab824f602f2243945.jpg)
Construction is set to start later this year on 6100 NW Grand, 14 brownstones being developed by architect Rick Brown. [RENDERING BY RBA ARCHITECTS]

 by Steve Lackmeyer, Oklahoman
Published: Wed, May 1, 2019 1:04 AM Updated: Wed, May 1, 2019 1:22 AM

Construction of a 14-brownstone development set to start later this year is expected to boast walking access to Classen Curve, Whole Foods and an array of upscale restaurants and shops.

The developer, Rick Brown, is an award-winning veteran architect in Oklahoma City who initially started looking for empty land in the area to build a home for him and his wife, Tracey.

The property at 6100 NW Grand previously was home to Kensington Apartments before it was cleared by the late Aubrey McClendon, who was overseeing a master plan for the area as part of his vision of creating an upscale community around the nearby Chesapeake Energy campus.

Link:  https://newsok.com/article/5630188/grand-development-brownstones-planned-for-area-near-classen-curve? (https://newsok.com/article/5630188/grand-development-brownstones-planned-for-area-near-classen-curve?)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on May 02, 2019, 09:20:45 am
^These could end up looking great or terrible. There's probably not a lot of middle ground. Fingers crossed they look great. I would love to see more


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on May 02, 2019, 09:21:46 am
...brownstone type developments in this region.

oops. Cut myself off.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 02, 2019, 10:50:46 am
...brownstone type developments in this region.

oops. Cut myself off.

Thought the same thing to myself when I first saw this. Had to do a double-take to make sure they were talking about OKC.  It's an exciting time to live in Oklahoma; especially in the state's two largest metro areas.  Seeing some really good plans for the future of Tulsa and OKC


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on May 02, 2019, 02:57:32 pm
Thought the same thing to myself when I first saw this. Had to do a double-take to make sure they were talking about OKC.  It's an exciting time to live in Oklahoma; especially in the state's two largest metro areas.  Seeing some really good plans for the future of Tulsa and OKC

Ha don’t tell that to the people who comment on the articles local news stations post on Facebook.  According to them OKC and Tulsa are crime-ridden cesspools with no future.   :D


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on May 03, 2019, 09:59:54 am
Ha don’t tell that to the people who comment on the articles local news stations post on Facebook.  According to them OKC and Tulsa are crime-ridden cesspools with no future.   :D

Well, Lori Fullbright needs an audience too.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: DowntownDan on May 03, 2019, 10:06:33 am
^These could end up looking great or terrible. There's probably not a lot of middle ground. Fingers crossed they look great. I would love to see more

So while Tulsa is dominated with faux-Tuscan, OKC I guess is going faux-French?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Townsend on May 03, 2019, 11:22:01 am
Tulsa should go a more fun route...

(https://www.pronto.com.ar/media/prontoar/images/2017/06/07//2017060720184067629.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: DowntownDan on May 03, 2019, 12:26:16 pm
Street's too narrow, not enough parking.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Townsend on May 06, 2019, 10:35:50 am
Street's too narrow, not enough parking.

Well, the cannon firing from the roof of the home with a mast would bring on some haters too.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: sgrizzle on May 06, 2019, 07:34:14 pm
Tulsa should go a more fun route...

(https://www.pronto.com.ar/media/prontoar/images/2017/06/07//2017060720184067629.jpg)



Too many flying nannies.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on May 07, 2019, 08:13:55 am
Too many flying nannies.

Is Tulsa a more Flying Nun kinda town?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 08, 2019, 11:26:01 am
NO PAIN, NO GAIN

Going to Hall of Fame Stadium? Bring your sunscreen, water, patience

               (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-05-08/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F05%2F08&id=Pc0150600&ext=.jpg&       ts=20190508103907)
          The latest renovations at USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium will change the fan experience at the Women’s College World Series. Patience will be important as fans adjust to the changes, which most notably include a                  new two-story pressbox. [PHOTOS BY CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN]

               (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-05-08/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F05%2F08&id=Pc0150700&ext=.jpg&ts=20190508103907)  

               (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-05-08/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F05%2F08&id=Pc0190400&ext=.jpg&ts=20190508103907)

          A new two-story pressbox has changed the face of USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium. The first level, seen here, will hold print, digital and broadcast media while the second level will be occupied primarily by ESPN, which            broadcasts the Women’s College World Series.


John Miller has a message for fans soon to return to USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium.

Be patient.

“It’s not finished,” he said with a laugh. “This isn’t the finished product.”

The man who oversees the home of the Women’s College World Series wasn’t just talking about ongoing construction, though there’s plenty of that. Even with the Big 12 softball tournament this weekend, construction that began last summer isn’t quite done. The main stadium won’t even be used by the Big 12 because of that. The conference champ will be crowned on auxiliary fields.

But even when the construction wraps up and the stadium opens in a few weeks for the WCWS, the improvements still won’t be finished. This is something of a gap year with the final phase of construction and the big payoff for fans still to come.

This year, patience will be as important as sunscreen and hydration.

Renovations at Hall of Fame Stadium have been ongoing for several years, but most changes were out of sight or reach of fans. The early improvements focused on behind-thescenes player-centric areas. Expanded meeting space. Improved dugouts. Airconditioned locker rooms.

The NCAA demanded such improvements if Oklahoma City wanted to keep the WCWS long term, but really, such things were desperately needed for an event as big as this.

But even as big changes were happening at Hall of Fame Stadium, much of what the fans experienced remained the same. The last major overhaul to the shell of stadium happened in 2002 when grassy hills down the baselines gave way to 3,000 new permanent seats. Since then, the stadium has been largely the same.

Same concourses. Same entrances. Same routes.

That has created routine.

This year, routine will be remade because even something as simple as entering the stadium will be different because the entire outside facade has changed.

“They used to know where to go in the past,” Miller said of fans but adding he won’t know exactly how to cue crowds for entrance until the current construction is done and the NCAA sets up its fan experience tents outside the stadium. “For the fan that’s been here a long time, they’re going to be really surprised.”

Surprise will eventually turn to delight because the latest changes are cool. The old pressbox is gone, replaced by a two-story structure that will give fans an idea of what the last phase of construction will look like. You can see hints of where the upper deck is going to be, where the beams will hold thousands of new seats by this time next year.

“Just even remembering what it used to look like is getting harder and harder,” said Codi Warren, who grew up in Oklahoma and is now oversees communications for USA Softball.

But that upper deck – the biggest and best part for fans -- is still just a plan. Until it is reality, fans will have to get used to life without the overhang that used to cover hundreds of seats behind home plate. Things will be different. Feel different, too.

It will take some adjustment.

But softball fans have done it before. Back in 2002, when WCWS attendance was exploding, Hall of Fame Stadium more than doubled its permanent seating, building out the stadium down both foul lines and going from 2,000 seats to 5,000. It was desperately needed.

In the process, though, the beloved burms were lost. Long-timers at the WCWS will remember the grassy hills that long provided seating for fans and play area for an untold number of kids.

“I rolled down probably every single piece of grass,” Warren said.

People still miss the burms, myself included, but for Hall of Fame Stadium and Oklahoma City to keep the WCWS, the stadium needed change.

So it is now.

These current renovations, when completely done next year, will keep the WCWS in OKC through 2035. So, when you find yourself a little confused about where to go or a little miffed that things aren’t exactly how you recall them, take a deep breath, summon your patience and remember the payoff.

More seats next year.

More softball for years to come.

Jenni Carlson: Jenni can be reached at 405-475-4125 or jcarlson@  oklahoman.com . Like her at facebook.com/  JenniCarlsonOK , follow her at twitter.com/  jennicarlson_ok or view her personality page at newsok.com/jennicarlson .

“They used to know where to go in the past. For the fan that’s been here a long time, they’re going to be really surprised.”
John Miller

              


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 14, 2019, 06:05:25 pm
Oklahoma City Omni Convention Center Hotel to accommodate NBA players

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-fe25e4ff516a2f49f8e09023384d0a9c.jpg) (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-8c7ec0046fc719c5359149f75cae17d1.jpg)

Omni address will be 400 S Robinson Avenue.  AAA four-diamond rating are required with three to five restaurants and retail at the ground floor. The convention center hotel will be a game changer when compared to the current Cox Convention Center (Old Myriad) and surrounding hotels in the downtown core.  It will provide 605 rooms.

Excerpts from the Oklahoman by Steve Lackmeyer
Published: Thu, April 19, 2018 8:09 PM Updated: Thu, April 19, 2018 10:30 PM

First, recall this project has been in the works for the past year following negotiations between Omni and the city over public participation in the project, costs, scope requirements and discussions on how best to design a convention hotel that can best serve the new convention center, the future Scissortail Park and Chesapeake Energy Arena.

The deal approved last summer by the city council provides $85.4 million in public assistance toward construction of the $235 million hotel. The city is also preparing to build a garage to the east of the hotel that may come with a mix of workforce house as part of the development.

(https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/tulsaworld.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/1/32/132652f7-84f2-5655-a3e2-d9f8cae16464/5a720987c889e.image.jpg?resize=640%2C479)
Oklahoma City's downtown Scissortail Park currently under construction

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-e1de7358fbfa508708c6187e0c1ad51f.jpg)

The rooms will be located on the fourth through the 17th floors. The plans indicate quite a few rooms (its difficult to figure out the count) on the 16th and 17th floors are being designed to accommodate NBA players.

The Omni, convention center and Scissortail Park are all set to be completed by 2020.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 14, 2019, 08:29:18 pm


     
Construction update pic May 11, 2019, Omni Convention Center Hotel

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni051019a.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk Forum with new convention center under construction in the background; join the discussion:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=82 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=82)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2019, 09:40:47 am

(http://city-sentinel.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/elephants-1-Asia-1024x680.jpg)

Same Shells, New Digs: Galapagos Tortoise
Habitat Under Construction at OKC Zoo

The Oklahoma City Zoo’s Galapagos tortoises are getting a new, modern habitat located just inside the Zoo’s entrance! The approximately $700,000 expansion is under construction in the former Secret Garden area of the Children’s Zoo and should be complete by late summer.

(https://www.speakcdn.com/assets/2294/12_pasted_galap_habitat.png)

The new Galapagos tortoise habitat consists of one indoor and two outdoor spaces. The climate-controlled 900 sq. ft. indoor habitat consists of a nesting area, an indoor pool, natural substrate floors, a vestibule for animal caretakers with a sink and utility space. It also features an open-air viewing area for Zoo guests. The outdoor spaces total 8,000 sq. ft. to roam with natural boulders, a log wall and native landscaping. A walkway for Zoo guests will also be constructed.

(https://www.speakcdn.com/assets/2294/12_pasted_galap_habitat_with_yards.png)

Galapagos tortoises are some of the longest living animals in the world, and the Zoo’s group of four are its oldest inhabitants. Unfortunately, spotty recordkeeping before they found their forever homes means it’s not possible to determine their exact ages. Max, Ellie, Isabela (Isa for short) and Mrs. B range from 70 to 110 years old! Max has lived at the OKC Zoo since 1974, and he’s coming up on his 75th birthday. Ellie has been with us since 1986, and she’s believed to be in her late 70s. Isa and Mrs. B arrived in 2016 and are the most senior of the group. Isa is about 90 years old and Mrs. B is between 100 and 110. The Galapagos tortoises will benefit from the new addition’s larger outdoor space and larger, modern indoor space.

(https://www.speakcdn.com/assets/2294/12_pasted_galapagos_tortoise.jpg)

Their current habitat at Island Life will be going away when construction begins on the Zoo’s next major project bringing its African species together. Construction on that project is tentatively scheduled to begin in mid-2020.

Galapagos tortoises were on a rapid decline towards extinction, going from over 200,000 individuals in the 1600s all the way down to 3,000 in the 1970s. Due to rigorous conservation efforts, their population is on the rise! There are now about 20,000 Galapagos tortoises in the wild.

Source:  Oklahoma City Zoo website:  https://www.okczoo.org/blog/posts/same-shells-new-digs-galapagos-tortoise-habitat-under-construction-at-okc-zoo (https://www.okczoo.org/blog/posts/same-shells-new-digs-galapagos-tortoise-habitat-under-construction-at-okc-zoo)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2019, 02:58:33 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/zoo111118b.jpg)

(https://farm7.static.flickr.com/6105/6308062342_51b1e22f5f_z.jpg)
Pics of the OKC Zoo via OKCTalk

Join the discussion  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=40269&page=17&p=1076388#post1076388 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=40269&page=17&p=1076388#post1076388)

Oklahoma City Zoo receives a permanent one-eighth-cent sales tax dedicated to funding capital improvement projects.
The permanent funding went into effect 29 years ago (1990).

OKC Zoo's 10 year plan:
.
A new veterinarian hospital. The building will include an area where the public can see veterinarians at work. The setup can be found at only a few zoos in the country, but it's popular with guests at those locations, Scott said. It should open in about three years or so.

A new restaurant and event center. The pachyderm building at the front of the zoo will be razed to make way for an African-style lodge. The giraffes will be moved into the old rhino yards, so visitors will have an up-close look at the animals.

A better herpetarium. The Canopy Restaurant will be vacant after the new restaurant is built, so it will be remodeled into a bright, modern herpetarium.

A better aquatic center. Aquaticus will be updated and expanded to make room for new and larger animals, possibly sharks and jellyfish.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on May 22, 2019, 10:35:48 pm
Nice stuff going on at the zoo!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ELG4America on May 23, 2019, 08:39:54 am

Oklahoma City Zoo receives a permanent one-eighth-cent sales tax dedicated to funding capital improvement projects.
The permanent funding went into effect 29 years ago (1990).

OKC Zoo's 10 year plan:
.
A new veterinarian hospital. The building will include an area where the public can see veterinarians at work. The setup can be found at only a few zoos in the country, but it's popular with guests at those locations, Scott said. It should open in about three years or so.

A new restaurant and event center. The pachyderm building at the front of the zoo will be razed to make way for an African-style lodge. The giraffes will be moved into the old rhino yards, so visitors will have an up-close look at the animals.

A better herpetarium. The Canopy Restaurant will be vacant after the new restaurant is built, so it will be remodeled into a bright, modern herpetarium.

A better aquatic center. Aquaticus will be updated and expanded to make room for new and larger animals, possibly sharks and jellyfish.

Oklahoma City's Zoo used to be a parking lot with animals. Now look at it. Way to go OKC. This is the kind of investment that zoos need and deserve. Tulsa are we going to step up?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on May 23, 2019, 08:59:19 am
Oklahoma City's Zoo used to be a parking lot with animals. Now look at it. Way to go OKC. This is the kind of investment that zoos need and deserve. Tulsa are we going to step up?

Here's projects the Tulsa Zoo has planned
https://buildingbeyond.org/projects/


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 23, 2019, 05:22:27 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline090317.jpg)


  Oklahoma City by drone:  https://youtu.be/0H5xffrYI_8 (https://youtu.be/0H5xffrYI_8)


Oklahoma City urban/city adds an estimated 69,022  residents between 2010-18

          2010 - 579,999     2010 Census
          2011 - 590,824
          2012 - 601,030
          2013 - 611-999
          2014 - 621,583
          2015 - 632,193

          2016 - 640,144
          2017 - 643,337
          2018 - 649,021     2018 Census estimate

          American Factfinder - Results:  https://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?src=bkmk (https://factfinder.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?src=bkmk)

(https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/5b2860bb016a2587bc160b47/5c63908a4387ae387442f4d2_Will%20Rogers%20Park%20in%20Oklahoma%20City%20OK.jpg) (https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/8c7b0932-dcea-433a-9453-cb3308193423_d.JPG) (https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/d42ae999-9bdf-432a-bf16-ddec43030554_d.JPG)
Will Rogers Park Gardens & Arboretum




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 23, 2019, 05:29:31 pm
Here's projects the Tulsa Zoo has planned
https://buildingbeyond.org/projects/

(https://buildingbeyond.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/lost-kingdom-1-768x512.jpg)

                   Nice projects planned for the Tulsa Zoo, especially the $21 million Lost Kingdom; can't wait to get up and visit your outstanding zoo.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on May 23, 2019, 07:46:33 pm
Here's projects the Tulsa Zoo has planned
https://buildingbeyond.org/projects/

Tulsa Zoo has some nice projects planned.  I've been to a handful of zoos and still think it's one of the better ones.  Same for the OKC Zoo.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 25, 2019, 07:55:23 pm


(https://www.ncaa.com/sites/default/files/public/2019-04/2019%20WCWS_1.png)
  

Women's College World Series:  Monday, June 3, 2019

  Bricktown In Oklahoma City:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg)



 (https://d1pk12b7bb81je.cloudfront.net/generated/adaptive-fit-in/800x800/okdataengine/appmedia/images/52/52790/skydance.jpg) (https://www.teamusa.org/-/media/USA_Softball/Images/Stadium/800x375/ASAHallofFameComplex.jpg?h=281&la=en&w=600&hash=39961BCD52672A07B668390A8FA4A181B08155CD)
(https://images.metro-magazine.com/post/L-OKC-Streetcar-EMBARK.jpg)
May 30, 2019 to June 5, 2019
Recurring daily
Times: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
2801 N.E. 50th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Oklahoma City, OK
Times: From: 10:00 AM to 07:00 PM
Phone: 405-425-3422


Tickets:

https://www.vividseats.com/sports/womens-college-world-series-tickets.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NCAA+Sports&utm_term=womens+college+world+series+tickets&vkid=22499393&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz6PnBRCPARIsANOtCw0owKg2TYPMTiSTeY7xpZiwjM39Ly2udP1VjINbvKmTZ86CB_0wM3gaApyxEALw_wcB (https://www.vividseats.com/sports/womens-college-world-series-tickets.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=NCAA+Sports&utm_term=womens+college+world+series+tickets&vkid=22499393&gclid=Cj0KCQjwz6PnBRCPARIsANOtCw0owKg2TYPMTiSTeY7xpZiwjM39Ly2udP1VjINbvKmTZ86CB_0wM3gaApyxEALw_wcB)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 26, 2019, 03:40:27 pm

                              (https://www.ncaa.com/sites/default/files/public/2019-04/2019%20WCWS_1.png)



2019 Women's College World Series: Schedule


               (https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-d3p48cMFZko/UGRPMYCeFvI/AAAAAAAAVkM/yvr4k29nEIk/s564/ASA%20hall%20of%20fame%20stadium.jpg)

               Thursday, May 30

                    No. 3 Washington vs. No. 6 Arizona | 12 p.m. ET on ESPN

                    No. 2 UCLA vs. No. 7 Minnesota | 2:30 p.m. on ESPN

                    No. 5 Florida vs. No. 13 Oklahoma State | 7 p.m. on ESPN2

                    No. 1 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 Alabama | 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2

               (https://i.pinimg.com/736x/69/a7/6f/69a76fb89612592506563f775cedaea0.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on May 26, 2019, 06:57:34 pm
                              (https://www.ncaa.com/sites/default/files/public/2019-04/2019%20WCWS_1.png)



2019 Women's College World Series: Schedule


               (https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-d3p48cMFZko/UGRPMYCeFvI/AAAAAAAAVkM/yvr4k29nEIk/s564/ASA%20hall%20of%20fame%20stadium.jpg)

               Thursday, May 30

                    No. 3 Washington vs. No. 6 Arizona | 12 p.m. ET on ESPN

                    No. 2 UCLA vs. No. 7 Minnesota | 2:30 p.m. on ESPN

                    No. 5 Florida vs. No. 13 Oklahoma State | 7 p.m. on ESPN2

                    No. 1 Oklahoma vs. No. 8 Alabama | 9:30 p.m. on ESPN2

               (https://i.pinimg.com/736x/69/a7/6f/69a76fb89612592506563f775cedaea0.jpg)

Bragging about things happening in Oklahoma City on a Tulsa board while Tulsa is in middle of a major region wide natural disaster might not be the best choice.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on May 26, 2019, 08:48:32 pm
Bragging about things happening in Oklahoma City on a Tulsa board while Tulsa is in middle of a major region wide natural disaster might not be the best choice.

fixed.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 27, 2019, 06:22:34 pm
Bragging about things happening in Oklahoma City on a Tulsa board while Tulsa is in middle of a major region wide natural disaster might not be the best choice.


Does Tulsa get similar coverage on the OKC board?

OKC area has some stuff going on, too.  El Reno, etc.  All that seems to be independent of these kinds of things...this seems like more of a future reference type thing. 




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 27, 2019, 07:47:24 pm
Anyone interested in attending the WCWS, tried to provided as much information as possible.  Feel free to contact me on this forum or OKCTalk if you need additional information.   Construction going on at the Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium will make it difficult for some of those attending the WCWS to park.  Hopefully, following the 2019 WCWS, the stadium will be completed with upper deck (2020 WCWS) as they will resume construction immediate following this year's events.

Not sure what kind of surveillance they have at the Zoo, Omniplex (Science Oklahoma), Firefighters Museum or Remington parking lots; however it has always been difficult to find close parking near the stadium.

We continue to keep our prayers in mind for those who are experiencing flood concerns in the Tulsa area.  Our Oklahoma standard works when we look out for one another. Let's not forget the El Reno community (west of OKC-Yukon); any financial contributions you can make to help those affected thru the Red Cross or other concerned organizations--please do so.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 28, 2019, 11:03:09 am
In the midst of adversity, we need to count our blessings.  There will come a time for us to move forward...  ...Oklahoma's two largest communities will be a beacon for many communities in our state to follow.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 28, 2019, 03:27:23 pm

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/goldenphoenix051919a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/goldenphoenix050418a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/goldenphoenix050418b.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/goldenphoenix050418c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/goldenphoenix050418d.jpg)

View the discussion @OKCTalk.com:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=28574&page=3 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=28574&page=3)



Golden Phoenix, 2728 N Classen Boulevard, OKC Asian District, poised for growth with proposed restaurant expansion.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 29, 2019, 09:30:53 am
 
Bank First Tower

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-ed731446c9b1025c48bae9c8aeceda6a.jpg)
The $63 million makeover of BancFirst Tower, originally home to Liberty Bank, will include an all new blue-tinted glass exterior as part of amended plans being submitted to the Downtown Design Review Committee. [RENDERING BY BOCKUS-PAYNE ARCHITECTS]

 by Steve Lackmeyer
Published: Wed, May 29, 2019 1:04 AM Updated: Wed, May 29, 2019 1:17 AM  https://oklahoman.com/article/5632516/bancfirst-tower-renovation-expanded-to-include-new-exterior-on-all-36-floors (https://oklahoman.com/article/5632516/bancfirst-tower-renovation-expanded-to-include-new-exterior-on-all-36-floors)


Redevelopment of the rechristened BancFirst Tower is going to include a new façade as renovations continue on the future bank headquarters.

Amended plans being submitted for approval by the Downtown Design Review Committee show the 36-story tower will appear as if it is a new addition to the skyline when the makeover is completed as it marks its 50th anniversary in two years.

Quote
“We are going to redo the skin,” Harlow said. “We weren’t certain we were going to do it. It is 50-year-old single pane glass, and you can do all the work you can on the HVAC, but it’s still 50-year-old single pane glass. We’ll basically have a brand-new building when we are done.”

BancFirst CEO David Harlow said work is well underway inside the tower, which had fallen into disrepair under the previous owner, the late James Cotter. The property at 100 N Broadway was in bankruptcy receivership when BancFirst bought it for $21 million last summer...

...Once complete, the bank will consolidate its headquarters and operations currently located near Will Rogers World Airport, increasing its downtown workforce from 300 to 425. The bank’s move into 180,000 of the 500,000-square-foot tower will increase occupancy from about 50% to more than 90%.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 29, 2019, 11:21:40 am

An ambitious 2020 MAPS 4 referendum could be placed before Oklahoma City voters...
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619d.jpg)


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819b.jpg)
In addition to a new $100 million State Fair Arena and a 10,000-seat starter Soccer Specific American football stadium ($50 million range) capable of MLS specs expansion; these items were...

...Presented to the OKC Riverfront Redevelopment Authority yesterday (5/28):


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/maps4river.jpg)

Background
The mayor and City Council are seeking suggestions for possible MAPS 4 projects. In Spring 2019, the Oklahoma City Riverfront Redevelopment Authority (OCRRA) Development and Water Use Committee (Committee) met repeatedly to discuss Oklahoma River-related projects suitable for MAPS 4. Those meetings produced the following list, which comprises OCRRA's MAPS 4 proposal. Any project may be phased if the total, estimated cost cannot be funded through MAPS 4.
For each item, staff prepared a description and cost estimate, if available. On May 28, 2019, the Committee is scheduled to make a recommendation on this Report. If OCRRA receives this Report, staff will prepare a related letter to the mayor.

OCRRA supports completion of the Oklahoma City Trails System. This item would provide for previously identified, but unfunded, connections from the River Corridor to the Trails System. It could help close the "loops" envisioned in the Trails System and better link the River Corridor to neighborhoods and other destinations. Estimated Cost: $2,200,000.

Park/Trail Amenities Along the Oklahoma River Corridor
OCRRA supports funding new amenities along the Oklahoma River/West River Trails. They could include, but not be limited to, drinking fountains, restrooms, shade structures, etc. Such improvements would further activate the River Trails, facilitate trail use, and encourage residents to pursue healthy lifestyles. These amenities would complement a recent Oklahoma City Community Foundation project to plant 800 trees on the north shore of the Oklahoma River. That project's master plan called for hardscape elements that could be included in this request. Estimated Cost: $1,200,000.

River Park Equestrian Development
River Park has the potential to be one of the City’s premier specialty parks, having been
designated an equestrian park in 2016. OCRRA supports full implementation of the
Equestrian Park Master Plan, which envisions a range of equestrian-related amenities for
River Park. They include a working livery stable; a multi-use indoor arena; arena-polo
facilities; a welcome center; and expanded trailer parking. MAPS 4 funding could
continue the development made possible by recent, City-funded infrastructure
improvements to River Park and separate grant funding for an Oklahoma River Cruises
landing. The amenities specified in the Equestrian Park Master Plan could make River
Park a regional destination for horse enthusiasts and tourists seeking to experience
“authentic” western culture in an urban environment. Estimated Cost: $26,000,000.

Equestrian Trails Along the Oklahoma River
OCRRA supports this companion item to the River Park equestrian development. It
would provide equestrian connectivity between River Park, Stockyards City, and the
American Indian Cultural Center and Museum (AICCM). By employing multiple
equestrian-use bridges along the trail route, the equestrian trails would offer a separate,
self-contained transportation route for horse riders without impeding the established
bike/pedestrian network. The equestrian trails would be a vital element for increasing
tourism along the River Corridor. Estimated Cost: $8,500,000.

Prairie Park Improvements
OCRRA supports development of this 409-acre site, which would become one of the
City’s newest and largest regional parks. It would serve as a premier destination in Ward
7 and “bookend” the eastern River Corridor. MAPS 4 funding would allow for
implementation of the Prairie Park Master Plan. It includes a large swimming beach
(complete with beach-grade sand) that can accommodate 3,000 bathers, a bathhouse and
concession building, life guard stations, a boat rental area, beach volleyball courts, sports
fields, walking paths, ADA accessible nature trails, a playground, restrooms, parking, and
other infrastructure. The proposed regional park would also be suitable to host a variety
of special events. Estimated Cost: $69,000,000.

Crystal Lake Park Improvements
OCRRA supports improvements allowing Crystal Lake Park to realize its full potential as
the western “bookend” of the River Corridor. The approximately 100-acre park features
rustic surroundings and a large lake encircled by part of the West River Trail. MAPS 4
funds could provide upgraded fishing access, improved parking and roadways, additional
recreation amenities, ADA enhancements, and other landscape/hardscape elements.
Estimated cost: Unknown.

Aquarium (if Located on, or Adjacent to, OCRRA Property)
OCRRA supports inclusion of a world-class aquarium, if it were located on, or adjacent
to, OCRRA property (e.g., south of Bass Pro, etc.). The facility could serve as a major
educational exhibit and tourist destination. The aquarium could offer unique experiences
and become an iconic attraction, linking to the Boathouse District, the AICCM,
Bricktown, and other prime destinations in central Oklahoma City. Estimated Cost: Unknown.

Infrastructure for Future Development Opportunities at Western Avenue
OCRRA supports infrastructure improvements to prepare for development of OCRRA
property north of the Oklahoma River and west of Western Avenue. It is located near a
picturesque wetland area across from the Wheeler District. The property offers high
visibility and quick access from Interstate 40. It also abuts the Oklahoma City
Community Foundation River Trail, which recently underwent an extensive
beautification project. Development of this site could offer residents and visitors new
dining or retail options and contribute to the City’s tax base. MAPS 4 improvements
would provide zoning updates, water and sewer infrastructure, a floodplain study, and
other incidental services and basic appurtenances needed to produce a developable
property. Estimated Cost: $1,100,000.\

Improvements Adjacent to the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum
OCRRA supports funding improvements to facilitate development of City property
adjacent the AICCM, which will showcase the history and culture of Oklahoma’s Native
American tribes. The AICCM is scheduled to open in Spring 2021. It sits at a highly
visible location along the Oklahoma River and is expected to be an international tourist
destination. The Chickasaw Nation owns about 120 acres adjacent to the AICCM that
will likely include mixed-use development. MAPS 4 funding could offer recreational
amenities, trail expansions/connectivity, an additional Oklahoma River Cruises landing,
etc., to spur further private investment near the complex. Estimated Cost: Unknown.

Additional Oklahoma River Dam
OCRRA supports expanding the Oklahoma River east of Interstate 35. Construction of a
fourth Oklahoma River dam would add navigable waterway in the heart of Ward 7 and
could spur millions of dollars of additional private development along the River Corridor.
The project would expand the transformative power of the Oklahoma River and provide
additional recreational and programming opportunities. Estimated Cost: $22,500,000.

Disc Golf Course Near Lake Overholser
OCRRA supports construction of an additional, 18-hole disc golf course on OCRRA
property south of Lake Overholser. It would add a venue for this popular sport, in west
Oklahoma City, and enhance OCRRA’s inventory of active-recreation facilities. It would
also activate an undeveloped area of the River Corridor. Estimated Cost: $120,000.

Source:  OKCTalk.com: https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45112&p=1077074#post1077074 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45112&p=1077074#post1077074)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 03, 2019, 02:09:48 pm
 
Progress on the new OKC Convention Center & Omni Hotel complex...

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention053019a.jpg)
OG&E Data Center's gold building has been removed to make room for CC Garage (above, lower center).
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention053019b.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk Forum.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 10, 2019, 04:19:10 pm
(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/30704020_435081240264038_5612302476570001408_o.jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=1ff0538a96e4f6309f7f0e8db3bb3f78&oe=5D91AC7E)

Asian District Night Market Festival

    June 15, 2019
    Times: 6:00 PM to 12:00 AM

    Location: Military Park
    2520 N Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73106
    Oklahoma City, OK

    Price: FREE
    Times: From: 06:00 PM to 12:00 AM



Visit Website:  https://www.facebook.com/events/436415870130013/?active_tab=about (https://www.facebook.com/events/436415870130013/?active_tab=about)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 14, 2019, 05:28:43 pm

Proposed Auto Alley hotel gets new look


Kriya Hotels of Grapevine, Texas has revised their plans for a 7-story hotel at 18 NW 6th Street in Automobile Alley.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319a.jpg)

The company had previously applied to the Downtown Design Review Committee but has supplemented their submission with a new look and layout.

The 111-room TownePlace Suites by Marriott would feature 4 floors of rooms atop a 3-level parking structure.

Other than parking, the ground level would include a 'jump lobby' where guests would unload luggage before proceeding to check-in on the 4th level.

Also on the 4th floor would be the main lobby, a bar connected to an outdoor patio with a glass folding wall system., meeting rooms, a fitness center, and guest rooms.

Floors 5, 6 and 6 would be for guest rooms and suites.

TownePlace is positioned as an extended stay hotel, with all rooms having kitchenettes and larger than average rooms.

The project is directly next to what will be the new 7-story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems, which is well under construction.

Downtown Design Review will consider the design at their June 20th meeting.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/townplace061319z.jpg)
                New seven story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319b.jpg)
              
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319d.jpg)


View or join the discussion on OKCTalk Forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on June 14, 2019, 06:55:15 pm

Proposed Auto Alley hotel gets new look


Kriya Hotels of Grapevine, Texas has revised their plans for a 7-story hotel at 18 NW 6th Street in Automobile Alley.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319a.jpg)

The company had previously applied to the Downtown Design Review Committee but has supplemented their submission with a new look and layout.

The 111-room TownePlace Suites by Marriott would feature 4 floors of rooms atop a 3-level parking structure.

Other than parking, the ground level would include a 'jump lobby' where guests would unload luggage before proceeding to check-in on the 4th level.

Also on the 4th floor would be the main lobby, a bar connected to an outdoor patio with a glass folding wall system., meeting rooms, a fitness center, and guest rooms.

Floors 5, 6 and 6 would be for guest rooms and suites.

TownePlace is positioned as an extended stay hotel, with all rooms having kitchenettes and larger than average rooms.

The project is directly next to what will be the new 7-story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems, which is well under construction.

Downtown Design Review will consider the design at their June 20th meeting.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/townplace061319z.jpg)
                New seven story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319b.jpg)
              
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/towneplace061319d.jpg)


View or join the discussion on OKCTalk Forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5)


That is a seriously ugly building. Damn.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on June 14, 2019, 07:39:39 pm
That is a seriously ugly building. Damn.

NO SH!T Sherlock.

 >:(


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 17, 2019, 06:14:39 pm
Event showcases Asian food, culture

Pics taken Saturday June 15, Asian Night Market Festival, Photos published in the Oklahoman June 17, 2019 [SARAH PHIPPS, PHOTOS/THE OKLAHOMAN]

                    (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-06-17/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F06%2F17&id=Pc0060400&ext=.jpg&ts=20190617090237)
Tamii Souna performs a Lao style of dance Saturday during the Asian Night Market Festival at Military Park in Oklahoma City.

                    (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-06-17/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F06%2F17&id=Pc0060500&ext=.jpg&ts=20190617090237)

Zonly Looman paints during the Asian Night Market Festival.


                    (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-06-17/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F06%2F17&id=Pc0060600&ext=.jpg&ts=20190617090237)

Members of the Vien Giac Buddhist Temple Lion Dance troupe entertain guests during the lion dance competition.



Military Park, Oklahoma City


(https://www.legion.org/sites/legion.org/files/memorial-photos/Brothers%20in%20Arms%201.JPG)

The "Brothers in Arms" sculpture honors those who fought during the Vietnam War. The monument is designed to show the brotherhood that developed between the American and the South Vietnamese soldiers.   The monument is located in Oklahoma City's Military Park, 1200 NW 24th Street, near North Classen Boulevard.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 19, 2019, 03:12:17 pm
(http://www.jazzinjune.org/wp-content/uploads/2019-banner.png)

Norman, Oklahoma

THURSDAY, June 20                                       
 Jazz in the Park
                                       

FRIDAY, June 21
 Jazz Under The Stars


SATURDAY, 22
Blues Under The Stars


Brookhaven Village & Andrews Park:  http://www.jazzinjune.org/schedule/ (http://www.jazzinjune.org/schedule/)

         


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 23, 2019, 12:55:08 pm
(https://www.riversportokc.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/SS-2016-Web-Image.jpeg)
Saturday - JUNE 29, 2019

JUNE • Stars & Stripes River Festival: https://www.riversportokc.org/events/stars-stripes-river-festival/ (https://www.riversportokc.org/events/stars-stripes-river-festival/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 23, 2019, 08:43:45 pm
OKC'S CANAL ZONE

After 20 years, change remains constant along Bricktown Canal

By Steve Lackmeyer, Business writer

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-06-23/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F06%2F23&id=Pc0310800&ext=.jpg&ts=20190623094826)

Quote
When the canal first opened, it held the promise of restaurants to come, but the old brick warehouses were still in various stages of renovation and nothing but dirt surrounded the canal where Lower Bricktown is today.

Visitors on this 20th anniversary can choose among more than a dozen restaurants; a handful of nightclubs, including a dueling piano bar; a bowling alley; laser tag; two entertainment centers; a miniature golf course; a 16-screen movie theater; and gift and retail stores


OKC'S CANAL ZONE  http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx)

Quote
An estimated 7.5 million people visit Oklahoma City throughout the year, according to Lindsay Vidrine, vice president of destination marketing for Visit OKC. Many of those visitors make a stop or several on the canal.

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-06-23/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F06%2F23&id=Pc0360300&ext=.jpg&ts=20190623094826)
The Brickopolis miniature golf course is a popular attraction along the Bricktown Canal on a summer evening. [DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN]

Canal continues to draw crowds:
By Kaelan Deese, Staff writer

The Bricktown Canal is celebrating 20 years in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City this year, where it continues to entertain crowds of all ages.

Built in 1999, OKC’s canal flows between a sprawling strip of diverse restaurants, entertainment and family-fun venues for locals and visitors alike, with walkways and water taxis available for transport along the waterway.


“When we got to our hotel, I was surprised by how modern everything looked around the area. I’m excited to learn more about Oklahoma’s history on the taxi tour,” said Stephanie Boyd, who traveled from Louisiana to bring her kids to the National Beta Club Junior Convention held this year in downtown Oklahoma City.

“I didn’t know what to expect coming to Oklahoma, but it honestly feels like New York,” said Brendan DeGal, a student attending Beta’s robotics competition.

An estimated 7.5 million people visit Oklahoma City throughout the year, according to Lindsay Vidrine, vice president of destination marketing for Visit OKC. Many of those visitors make a stop or several on the canal.

“Summers are by far our busiest time in the city,” Vidrine said.

One recent visitor was surprised by the hospitality that she experienced during her trip.

“Being from Louisiana, I am used to strangers being polite and kind but so far I have experienced nothing but greatness from the people of Oklahoma,” Synthia Jesse said.

In addition to a water taxi ride, families often enjoy activities like playing mini golf, visiting an indoor arcade, bowling or watching a movie.

With restaurants including longtime tenants Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse and Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar and Grill, there’s no shortage of places to visit and things to do.

There are also landmarks and points of interest that are highlighted by the taxi guides along the canal.

The Centennial Land Run Monument is a spot to see some of the many bronze statues located alongside the waterway.

The monument showcases 38 sculptures of cowboys, horses and wagons in commemoration of the opening of the Unassigned Land in Oklahoma Territory with the Land Run of 1889.

Authorized by city council on July 31, 2001, more additions to the monument are planned until 2020.

A “party like it’s 1999” event is planned for Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. as part of the canal’s 20th anniversary celebrations, hosted by Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership.

Numerous businesses around the waterway will be celebrating with special deals and activities for all ages.

Oklahoman:  Sunday, June 23, 2019

 



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: joiei on June 25, 2019, 02:11:05 am
(http://www.jazzinjune.org/wp-content/uploads/2019-banner.png)

Norman, Oklahoma

THURSDAY, June 20                                       
 Jazz in the Park
                                       

FRIDAY, June 21
 Jazz Under The Stars


SATURDAY, 22
Blues Under The Stars


Brookhaven Village & Andrews Park:  http://www.jazzinjune.org/schedule/ (http://www.jazzinjune.org/schedule/)

         
  I find we have enough free music events happening here in Tulsa that driving down to OKC is not that appealing.  Guthrie Green. 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on June 25, 2019, 10:08:17 am
  I find we have enough free music events happening here in Tulsa that driving down to OKC is not that appealing.  Guthrie Green. 

Laramie tends to over-post mundane OKC events.   I understand  (and am interested in) major happenings in OKC, but small weekend events and such isn't notable  to a Tulsa crowd.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 25, 2019, 12:03:22 pm
Heartland Payments tower progress...
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland062319a.jpg)
The steel skeleton structure has reached its full height.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland072718b.jpg)
Different angles of how the finished tower will appear.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland121018b.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on June 25, 2019, 01:00:13 pm
Heartland Payments tower progress...
Seven stories is now a tower?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on June 25, 2019, 01:08:43 pm
Seven stories is now a tower?

Hey,  the first "skyscraper" was only ten stories.  But that was in 1885, so...   :)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 25, 2019, 07:05:50 pm
What's new with NBA arenas:

New Gathering Spaces

There has been a trend across major sports of adding more gathering spaces to facilities. That has particularly held true around the NBA and NHL, thanks to renovations that have made them a focal point of their projects.

Technology Upgrades

In order to help connect fans while providing the latest in audio and video production, several arenas have received technology upgrades. Many renovations have resulted in new videoboards and new audio systems, with upgraded Wi-Fi often factoring in as well, but a few in particular have stood out.

Localized Concessions

Upgrading physical stands and incorporating technology in some form, such as self-serve kiosks or mobile ordering, are fairly commonplace in renovation projects. An increasing trend is also seeing teams emphasize local food offerings in their revamped concessions, giving event goers a taste of the city.
Future Upgrades for Chesapeake Energy Arena $8,865,000:

Passage of the Oklahoma City 2017 General Obligation Bond election provides $8,865,000 for the purpose of repairing, renovating, remodeling, improving, equipping and furnishing the City’s Downtown Arena.     Yes    21,106    50.68%  -  No    20,542    49.32%

Thunder Alley:  $10 million development.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-fbd6a95f08c23dd770855ffdec18ccc2.jpg)

If approved by the Urban Renewal Authority, the proposal calls for construction to start by spring 2020 with an opening a year later. Randy Hogan, who developed Lower Bricktown and East Wharf, said Tuesday the complex is designed to create a year-round attraction that can host summer basketball camps, corporate events and festivals.

Youtube video Thunder Alley Entertainment District:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iaE-33HKdo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iaE-33HKdo)

Localized Concessions would be the next area we would need to address for The Peake.

What else is needed to keep our downtown arena up to date?

Sources:    Current Trends in NBA and NHL Arena Renovations:  https://arenadigest.com/2018/11/28/current-trends-nba-nhl-arena-renovations/ (https://arenadigest.com/2018/11/28/current-trends-nba-nhl-arena-renovations/)

Thunder Alley entertainment complex proposed for downtown OKC:  https://oklahoman.com/article/5627534/thunder-alley-proposed (https://oklahoman.com/article/5627534/thunder-alley-proposed)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 25, 2019, 08:40:47 pm
 
Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex, Omni Hotel & Convention Center Garage will overlook Scissortail Park

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail062019b.jpg)

Meet in OKC | The Newest Meetings Destination video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewgYxukipM4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewgYxukipM4)

Construction on the 70 acre Scissortail Park; 40-acre Upper Park will open at the end of September with a three-day grand opening celebration; meanwhile work continues on the 30 acre section south of the Oklahoma River beyond Skydance Bridge.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention062019a.jpg)

These 3 pics, via OKCTalk shows how massive the $288 million convention center complex looks.  Construction continues on the 200,000 sq. ft. exhibition hall, 45,000-square-foot meeting space, 30,000-square-foot ballroom.  A $30 million, 1,000 space parking garage with an additional 500 spaces for surface parking will add to the available parking in OKC's core.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni060819b.jpg)
Work continues on the $235.5 million 605 room, 17 story Omni Headquarters convention hotel. A total of 738 rooms will be available for convention goers with the recently completed 133 room Marriott Fairfield Inn & Suites by Tulsa developer Andy Patel. Omni holds the 'hotel development option' to develop a new hotel on the 4 sq block site of the Cox Convention Center (Old Myriad CC), once demolished.
(https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/04/Streetcar-at-Stop_0280mh-2.jpg)
Modern $136 million OKC Streetcar routes 5.6 miles along Midtown, Automobile Alley, Scissortail Park, Convention Center Complex, Chesapeake Energy Arena & Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark.


As MAPS 3 Initiative wraps up its $777 million of construction projects along with the $235.5 million Omni Hotel, construction will begin on $967 million general obligation bond approved in 2017 that will provide construction on streets, bridges, drainage control, transit, traffic control, ASA Hall of Fame Stadium, Chesapeake Energy Arena, Civic Center complex, city maintenance, parks & recreation.   $3 billion in public-private MAPS-Bonds construction development projects will boost Oklahoma City's economy into the turn of 2020.

Hotel room count will increase to 4,650 rooms, with housing in the core approaching 6,000 units.

Oklahoma City's MAPS IV initiative will be presented before the voters in 2020; expected to place over $1 billion plus initiatives will include a proposed expansion of Oklahoma River development, Bricktown Canal,  $100 million State Fair Coliseum & a $65 - $80 million state of the art Soccer-American football stadium.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 04, 2019, 12:22:50 pm
.
(https://image.freepik.com/free-vector/happy-independence-day-usa-with-flag_1142-4350.jpg)

 243rd Independence Day
.
Hope you have an enjoyable & safe 4th of July.   Take your time on the roads today, stay focused fellow Tulsans, allow yourself plenty of time for travel; those of you visiting lakes, observe all safety rules & regulations.

--Always in my heart, Laramie


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 05, 2019, 03:02:14 pm
Two new restaurants opening in Paseo District.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/frida062819h.jpg)
FRIDA Southwest, the new American/southwest restaurant and bar by Humankind Hospitality, is in the midst of training and will open later in July in the Paseo District.
Link via OKCTalk:  https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=625-Gorgeous-Frida-Southwest-nears-completion (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=625-Gorgeous-Frida-Southwest-nears-completion)

                                        Paseo Arts District:  NW 28th & Walker Ave. to NW 30th St. & Dewey Ave.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/gun070219d.jpg)
Gun Izakaya opens Friday in the Paseo.
Link via OKCTalk:  https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=626-Gun-Izakaya-opens-Friday-in-the-Paseo (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=626-Gun-Izakaya-opens-Friday-in-the-Paseo)

Oklahoma City Free Visitors Guide:  https://www.visitokc.com/about-okc/okc-districts/paseo-arts-district/ (https://www.visitokc.com/about-okc/okc-districts/paseo-arts-district/)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 07, 2019, 12:25:04 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni070519a.jpg)
Starting construction on the 9th floor of this 17 floor structure.
Join the discussion at OKCTalk.com: https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=84&p=1081310#post1081310 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=84&p=1081310#post1081310)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 10, 2019, 12:23:00 pm
A Kansas City-based recreation and entertainment chain is planning a location in North Oklahoma City.

Indoor/outdoor complex to feature pickleball, restaurant and bar.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/pickle.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/pickle99.jpg)
As part of the larger 9000 Broadway complex, Chicken N Pickle will join Flix Brewhouse as well as proposed restaurants, office and housing on property that was once owned by the Oklahoma Publishing Company (OPUBCO).
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/picklenew.jpg)

View the News from OKCTalk.com:  https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=627-Indoor-outdoor-complex-to-feature-pickleball-restaurant-and-bar (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=627-Indoor-outdoor-complex-to-feature-pickleball-restaurant-and-bar)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 16, 2019, 12:16:14 am
     TTEC to expand in Oklahoma City, create 350 jobs


          Staff reports, Oklahoman
          Published: Sat, July 13, 2019 5:00 AM

Denver-based insurance and technology company TTEC Holdings Inc. will open a Humanify Customer Engagement Center in Oklahoma City, where the company will employ up to 350 people, officials said Friday.

"Oklahoma City’s talented labor force provided an excellent market opportunity to create a new Humanify Customer Engagement Center,” Martin DeGhetto, TTEC's chief operating officer, said in a statement. “We look forward to hiring individuals who are compassionate and service-minded, including those from the many military families and veterans who call Oklahoma City home."

TTEC officials are looking to hire licensed property and casualty claims adjusters and support positions. The company also offers a College of Insurance training program to help people receive an insurance license and prepare to become an insurance adjuster.

TTEC officials credited the decision to expand in Oklahoma City in part because of a collaborative effort by the Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, City of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Department of Commerce and Oklahoma Works.

"We are proud that another technology and services company has chosen Oklahoma for its latest operation," Sean Kouplen, Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce and Workforce Development, said in a statement. "Our business climate, skilled workforce, workforce training and collaborative environment continue to make an impact on companies looking to expand. We appreciate TTEC for choosing Oklahoma and look forward to seeing the company succeed in our state."

(https://images1.loopnet.com/i2/7bZG4XrMYFl3YArbKaCjeUm7Viya1Sb_ytiO7CYv1yY/110/image.jpg)

The facility will be at an existing technology park at 7725 W Reno Ave.

“We are very excited to welcome TTEC to Oklahoma City,” Roy H. Williams, CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, said in a statement. “They are recognized as a leader in their industry, and the outstanding talent pool we have in Oklahoma City was a big factor in their decision to expand here. They are a company that has a great reputation with community involvement, and we are excited to watch them grow in Oklahoma City.”


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 20, 2019, 09:03:08 pm
Oklahoma City proposals for MAPS 4 initiatives:  https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-4 (https://www.okc.gov/government/maps-4) includes selected presentations.


    Tuesday, July 9
        Palomar (Presentation |Video)
        Parks (Presentation | Video)
        Sidewalks, bike lanes, trails, streetlights (Presentation | Video)
        Freedom Center (Presentation | Video)

    Thursday, July 11
        Youth centers
        Beautification
        State Fair coliseum (Presentation | Video):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jU8BtMFEM38&feature=youtu.be&t=8587 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jU8BtMFEM38&feature=youtu.be&t=8587)
        Senior wellness centers
        Animal shelter

Upcoming events: 

    Wednesday, July 31
        Transit
        Homelessness
        Chesapeake Arena & NBA enhancements
        Diversion hub

    Tuesday, Aug. 6
        Mental health
        Multipurpose stadium
        Innovation District
        Other projects brought forward by Councilmembers
        Overview of format, timing, revenue estimates, sustainable design, 1% for art


Two large development projects on MAPS 4 initiatives:

MAPS 4 Stadium (Soccer & American football): $65 million - $80 million:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWHxr5sdu4k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWHxr5sdu4k)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium022819b.jpg)

(https://soccerstadiumdigest.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/New-OKC-Energy-stadium-rendering.jpg)

MAPS 4 Coliseum (Replace current State Fair Arena): $92 million https://youtu.be/P4Dz3_K95Zo (https://youtu.be/P4Dz3_K95Zo)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619d.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619g.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 21, 2019, 10:36:55 am
How One City Is Paying Cash for a Brand New Convention Center

(https://www.pcma.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/3917-news-article-how-one-city-is-paying-cash-for-a-brand-new.png)

Author: David McMillin      

When Oklahoma City opens the doors to a new convention center in 2020, the city’s tourism officials will be free from a typical worry: debt. Thanks to a program called Metropolitan Area Projects — commonly known as MAPS — the tab for the venue will already be paid in full. In fact, it will be covered long before any attendees are inside the building. “We don’t start construction on any of the projects until there is enough money to pay cash for the project,” Mike Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau (OKC CVB), told PCMA in an interview. “It’s a much easier way to do things. We don’t have to worry about selling bonds or the normal issues that usually come up with building a new convention center.”

Carrier doesn’t have to worry about how local residents will feel about the new venue, either. He already knows. Taxpayers voted to support the convention center in 2009, and they’ve been paying for it ever since in some very tiny increments. MAPS uses a one-cent, limited-term sales tax to cover the costs of public projects. “As a community, we decide on a few transformational projects that matter to us, and we work together to make them happen,” Carrier said. “We know when the tax will start and when it will end, and most importantly, we know that there won’t be any mortgage to worry about.”

As plenty of convention destinations worry about budget cuts and public perceptions of funding plans, the MAPS program seems to be a strong example of demonstrating the value of a convention center to people who may never actually attend a conference or trade show inside it. Oklahoma City residents didn’t just have a say in green lighting the project; city officials are also inviting them to contribute their own ideas to naming a new public park that will be adjacent to the new center.

It’s an impressive approach to building local support for the value of the convention industry. Plenty of outside visitors will come to Oklahoma City for conferences and business events, but the venue will also play a crucial role in the community as a host for events like the Mayor’s State of the City Address and the Inaugural Ball for the Governor. Carrier summed up the center’s role with a comparison that more cities should embrace: “We like to think of the main ballroom as the living room of our community.”

PCMA link:  https://www.pcma.org/how-one-city-is-paying-cash-for-a-brand-new-convention-center/ (https://www.pcma.org/how-one-city-is-paying-cash-for-a-brand-new-convention-center/)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention071819a.jpg)
Progress on the $288 million OKC Convention Center (glass installation) & 10th floor of the 17 story $232 million Omni Hotel--taken July 19, 2019
Join the discussion:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=186 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=186)

The Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex will encompass more than $578 million in new construction that includes the convention center, Omni hotel, convention center garage & the Marriott Fairfield Inn & Suites.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 22, 2019, 11:55:35 am



(https://www.alec.org/app/uploads/2014/02/Oklahoma-Daniel-Mayer-CC-848x0-c-default.jpg)


    Oklahoma State capitol building renovations:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOEDFkdYaCY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOEDFkdYaCY)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 27, 2019, 01:23:23 pm
Three large, "transformative" projects, still in planning, nonetheless made progress the first half of the year.

              Oklahoman, Business section, July 27, 2019

                   Transformation

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/chisholmphase2ba.jpg)

Chisholm Creek's next phase south of Memorial between Pennsylvania and Western, will include two large, mixed-use buildings with ground-floor retail, office above, a courtyard, hotel, and dinner-and-a movie concept, according to renderings released by the developers.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-dee2e54afbf225bf0901042a6f10ac13.jpg)

Penn Central — recently renamed "Oak”the "ambitious" high-end retailoffice-residential project at Pennsylvania and Northwest Expressway got Planning Commission approval.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-409778feafd057c33134a3bd609b1565.jpg)

The Cotton Mill project marketed by Sooner Development, just southeast of downtown, is waiting to see if a soccer/multiuse stadium will be included in MAPS 4; it could anchor the retail-entertainment project.

"None of these projects have broken ground," Price Edwards said, but all "would take Oklahoma City retail to a new level."

Pics, various sources...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 01, 2019, 09:23:40 am
          Arena figures in MAPS 4 plans

                       By William Crum
                       Staff writer
wcrum@oklahoman.com (http://wcrum@oklahoman.com)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119e.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119i.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119k.jpg)
Selected pics via OKCTalk.com https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=633-135M-improvements-proposed-for-arena-Thunder (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=633-135M-improvements-proposed-for-arena-Thunder)

MAPS 4 could direct $120 million to $135 million toward upgrades and expansion of Chesapeake Energy Arena and improvements of the cityowned Oklahoma City Thunder practice facility.

Keeping the city’s arena competitive among NBA teams and on the concert circuit was the focus of one of four MAPS 4 presentations reviewed by the city council Tuesday.

The eight-hour meeting included presentations on transit, homelessness and affordable housing, and a center for diverting individuals facing incarceration in the county jail to alternatives.

The meeting was the third of four on MAPS 4 ideas.

Like the first two in mid July, it drew hundreds of advocates to City Hall, with several dozen making remarks, mostly in favor of proposed projects.

The series of review sessions wraps up on Tuesday.

The council will then settle on a budget and slate of projects to promise to residents. Voters ultimately decide whether to extend the 1-cent MAPS sales tax for MAPS 4.

Tom Anderson, special projects manager in the city manager’s office, told the council the arena is the engine behind $90 million in direct spending annually in the local economy. It is the home of the NBA’s Thunder and, he said, an increasingly busy concert venue.

The arena was an original MAPS project and opened in 2002.

Many of the ideas for MAPS 4 investments are geared toward enhancing amenities for basketball fans, such as wider concourses and new eating and drinking options, expanding the building’s footprint by 70,000 square feet.

Locker rooms would get a makeover, in part to accommodate the increasing number of women being hired in roles, including NBA coaches.

A new scoreboard and larger video screens offering higher definition and greater clarity would replace current technology; seats and elevators would be replaced.

The Thunder’s initial 15-year lease expires about the time the arena hits 20 years of age.

Oklahoma City is the NBA’s third-smallest market.

Ward 6 Councilwoman JoBeth Hamon asked whether the city would “lose them if we don’t keep up, keep competitive.”

City Manager Craig Freeman said there was no threat from the Thunder, which has five threeyear options once the initial lease expires.

“With this, it is a matter of taking care of what we have,” said Freeman. “We need to continue to invest in the building to be able to keep the team and for it to be a good fan experience.”

Mayor David Holt said he imagined “we’re going to have a pretty substantive conversation in the next three years as that first 15-year term ends.”

“We all are going to be on one side of the table and the Thunder are going to be on the other,” he said.

“I have no reason to think that’s a contentious negotiation but every time you come to the table with a facility that’s not up to speed and doesn’t have the promise of being brought up to current standards, then your hand is weaker.”

Hamon said team owners could put more toward keeping the arena competitive.

“When a lot of the money that the organization is paying for is for people who make millions and millions of dollars, I just have a hard time saying, ‘Let’s cut animal shelter or let’s cut transit,’ when we have people who spoke today that transit is a vital thing for them to be able to participate in society,’ she said.

“It feels like something on the scales was not balanced. I’d be really interested in finding a way to say maybe this is a thing we can trim from.

“The people who own them have a lot of money already, they’ve already gotten a leg up,” Hamon said. “When we’re talking about how to make this fit in what our projections are, I just want to think about how can we maybe ask them to take a little bit more of a hit than, say, the single mom who’s trying to.”






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 01, 2019, 06:32:04 pm
          
          Funding the future

          Plan looks to Innovation District as economic engine for Oklahoma City

                  By Steve Lackmeyer
                  Business writer slackmeyer@oklahoman.com


                              (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-08-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F08%2F01&id=Pc0011100&ext=.jpg&ts=20190801093132)

A planned transformation of the Oklahoma Health Center into an innovation district includes a proposal to widen the NE 10 Street bridge over Interstate 235 to allow for a park-like pedestrian crossing on both sides of the span. The proposal also includes building structured parking to allow for more dense development. [RENDERING BY PERKINS & WILL]

                                        (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-08-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F08%2F01&id=Pc0011200&ext=.jpg&ts=20190801093132)

The Beacon of Hope, currently surrounded by vacant land, would be the center of an innovation district lined with a hotel (shown to the right) and a mix of offices and retail (shown to the left). [RENDERING BY PERKINS & WILL]

                             (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-08-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F08%2F01&id=Pc0020300&ext=.jpg&ts=20190801093132)

A development plan to create an innovation district east of downtown includes building structured parking and using surface parking to build a mix of housing, a hotel, offices and retail. A new passage would be created between Stiles Circle and the Beacon of Hope leading to the OU Research Park. [RENDERING BY PERKINS & WILL]

                          
                         (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-08-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F08%2F01&id=Pc0020400&ext=.jpg&ts=20190801093132)

A study by Perkins & Will looked an area that includes the Oklahoma Health Center, the state Capitol, surrounding neighborhoods and how they can be transformed into an Innovation District that connects to nearby Automobile Alley. The study suggests focusing redevelopment in a “core” area between NE 8, NE 10, Lincoln Boulevard and I-235.

The Oklahoma Health Center, home to the OU Research Park, OU Medical School, the Baker Hughes/ GE research center, the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics, and an array of hospitals, research institutions and biotech companies, has a workforce totaling 18,000. But it has very little mixed-use development or connection to the surrounding historically black neighborhoods or downtown.

Roy Williams, president of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, sees that lack of vitality as holding the district back from realizing its full potential in generating outside investment, creating new jobs and sparking creation of new businesses.

Get the full story from the Oklahomans Steve Lackmeyer:  http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 04, 2019, 11:42:46 pm
   Transit projects seek $87.2M from MAPS4

               Published on 07-31-2019 12:45 AM

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119x.jpg)

          
    1. 12-14 miles of high frequency (12-15 minute) Bus Rapid Transit connecting to larger system
    2.  Weekday bus service frequency of 30 minutes or better for all OKC bus routes
    3.  500 new ADA accessible covered bus shelters
    4.  Security and safety lighting at every bus stop
    5.  Multiple safe and secure park and ride facilities
    6.  Technology-based transportation and connectivity solutions

    Traffic Signal Priority (TSP) at half the signalized intersections on bus routes
    Integrate micro-transit mobility options into EMBARK family of services


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119i.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119j.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119b.jpg)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 04, 2019, 11:54:31 pm
2 of 2

 Transit projects seek $87.2M from MAPS4


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119d.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119e.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119f.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119g.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119h.jpg)

Source:  Join the discussion @ OKCTalk.com:  https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=634-Transit-projects-seeks-87-2M-from-MAPS4 (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=634-Transit-projects-seeks-87-2M-from-MAPS4)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 05, 2019, 12:46:17 am
  
Oklahoma City LGBT District
NW 39th Street Enclave

"The Strip", is a prominent lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) district in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The area is located along NW 39th Street in the city's northwest quadrant, one block west of Pennsylvania Avenue.

(https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/original/2977195/pride-1478gf.jpg)
Oklahoma Gazette
(https://freepressokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/DSC05074-1.jpg)
2019 OKC Pride Parade celebration before 82,000 onlookers.--above pic, Oklahoma City Free Press:  https://freepressokc.com/gallery-okc-pride-parade-2019/ (https://freepressokc.com/gallery-okc-pride-parade-2019/)

Habana Inn will become Hotel Habana

(https://www.eturbonews.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/habanainn.jpg)  (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/habana2.jpg)
The largest gay resort in the  U.S. Southwest has new owners. Los Angeles-based Alternatives Resorts has bought the 170-room Habana Inn in Oklahoma County. The property sold for $2.4 million.

  
(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/5790382/lobby_1.jpg?cb=1551828318[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/5FCWX5X.png)

    Harold E. Fulton Design & Consulting / provided Early Hotel Habana renderings show a completely redone facade and lobby.


(https://i.imgur.com/5FCWX5X.png)



Alternatives Resorts spokesman Arnold Greenspan says the hotel will be renamed as Hotel Habana and the first phase of renovations will start in the fall.

 The self-proclaimed “largest gay resort in the Southwest” is under new ownership and ready for a complete makeover. Hotel Habana, 2200 NW 40th St., was known as Habana Inn until Los Angeles-based Alternative Resorts acquired the 170-room hotel in January.

Thomas Lagatta, director of the renovation project, said if all goes according to plan, the hotel will be fully renovated in 18 months. Room bookings will stay open, but not all rooms will be available while renovations are taking place in certain areas.

“Some things we’re starting on now like the west pool, we’re starting around there, and then quite a bit of our renovations we’re putting off until fall,” he said. “The exterior will be renovated, but that won’t start until [October or November].”

The hotel is home to two courtyard pools, The Copa nightclub, Finish Line country bar and Jungle Reds gift shop. It sits in the city’s “gayborhood” and has served as a major regional LGBTQ+ destination. Alternative Resorts saw inherent value on a general business basis, but Lagatta said it also saw its potential as a “huge, unique venue.”

“Unique almost to the entire United States as far as what it can be, kind of an oasis for people … who are not the mainstream and actually the entire 39th [Street] District here in Oklahoma City,” he said. “We want to help it be what it can be. Even beyond that, we think that most people who come here don’t realize what a wonderful, unique place this is. We intend to make it fulfill its potential.”

Arnold Greenspan, marketing coordinator, said the hotel is Alternative Resorts’ first major acquisition. Alternative is a holding company that Greenspan said intends to have several facilities like Hotel Habana throughout the country. Greenspan said the hotel’s new owner actually owned several other properties in the state.

“He knows this area very, very well,” he said. “He’s frequented this hotel, and when the opportunity came up to buy it, thought, ‘Why not?’ And he bought it with the intention of upgrading everything. This place hasn’t had much upgrades in a long time.”

Fulfilling potential

The renovations will be all-inclusive. The hotel lobby will be completely redone, rooms will be redesigned and both pools will get several upgrades. Some of the smaller renovations, like the installation of four hot tubs around the west pool, are already taking place.

The hotel receives more guests during the warmer months, officials said, but renovation plans, some of which are being kept a secret, would make it more of a year-round destination.

 “Depending on how much money we have to operate with in terms of construction, the first thing that we will do is something I can’t tell you about,” Greenspan said. “We will be gutting and renovating all the rooms around the east pool. We have extensive plans for the east pool. … We’re hoping, if we get the money that we’re hoping we get, then we will renovate the entire east courtyard pool area. If not, there are some renovations that we will make that I am not at liberty to tell you at this point, and then we will renovate rooms as we can.”

Early renderings have been released of the building’s facade and different room layouts, but Greenspan said they’re still weighing whether or not they will commit to them. Room renderings have an Alice in Wonderland theme, with designs based on different characters.

“Some of those are pretty involved in terms of what you would have to uniquely construct for a room, and so we’re looking at them like, ‘They look really cool, but is that how we want to spend our money or do we want to spend it in some other manner?’” he said. “Are we going to fulfill that? We don’t really know, but yeah, that’s what we’d like to see.”

Officials are also focusing on improving the hotel’s banquet room and potentially adding another event space.

“We’re going to have at least one banquet room, 2,500 square feet, so it’s a pretty good-sized banquet room,” Greenspan said. “We will have an event space that will be fairly unique to Oklahoma City, and that’s the project that we are trying to keep as quiet as we can. … But that will give us another event space.”

The Copa and Finish Line have a different owner; Greenspan is unsure if those will be renovated. However, they are working on a way to make Habana nonsmoking, which could potentially create another club/lounge area.

“We’re adding a sky lounge onto one of the roofs here, so that we will have an outdoor smoking area and club up on the roof as well,” Greenspan. “We don’t know how feasible that is — like would everybody kick up their heels and say, ‘Forget it; we’re not coming’ — but we’d really like to make it nonsmoking if we could.”

In planning the renovations, Lagatta said they also wanted to make sure Habana is not just “a party hotel.”

“We want to accommodate business people that are passing through that need a place to work,” he said. “We’re putting in fiber optic Wi-Fi, so everybody will have free fiber optic Wi-Fi. … We’re fixing up some rooms in the quieter areas away from the clubs, so it’s like any given night it’s a good place to stay.”

Giving back
click to enlarge Arnold Greenspan, Alternative Resorts spokesman, said Hotel Habana is the group’s first major acquisition. - MIGUEL RIOS

    Miguel Rios
    Arnold Greenspan, Alternative Resorts spokesman, said Hotel Habana is the group’s first major acquisition.

The two event spaces will help Habana give back to the community, something Greenspan said patrons don’t currently expect from the hotel.

“The community that we serve … is used to this facility not giving back, only making money from it,” he said. “That’s going to change in a big way; we’re going to be philanthropic.”

Officials have already met with various organizations in the city to discuss potential fundraising event ideas. Greenspan said one person in particular is interested in having a quarterly event to benefit local charities.

“It’s my goal — I don’t know how long it’s going to take, but it’s going to happen — that we have an event every weekend here. Obviously, they’re not all going to be charitable, but a lot of them are going to be,” he said. “We hope to do a lot of that, and we hope to make up for the long time that this facility has not been supportive.”

Despite continuing the hotel’s legacy as a major destination for the state’s LGBTQ+ community, Greenspan said they don’t like labels.

“When we use things like ‘LGBTQ,’ why are we dividing ourselves with that? It doesn’t unite us. It might unite the people under those individual labels, but it doesn’t unite us as a community,” he said. “So from this facility from now on, you will not hear those labels. To us, it’s just the community; it’s our family. That’s how we’re going to treat it, and we hope everybody will join us.”

Though it is not yet confirmed, the team is planning a big Fourth of July block party to celebrate the hotel’s future. Additionally, once they complete a major renovation project, they plan to throw a grand opening celebration, which is likely to be a charitable event.

Oklahoma Gazette:  https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/hotel-potential/Content?oid=5790371 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/hotel-potential/Content?oid=5790371)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 06, 2019, 08:01:28 pm
Plans revised for proposed MAPS 4 Stadium

Published on 08-06-2019 02:05 PM OKCTalk.com https://www.okctalk.com/content.php?r=637-Plans-revised-for-proposed-MAPS-4-stadiumhttp://

          Full press release:

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619a.jpg)

OKLAHOMA CITY (Aug. 6, 2019) – A group led by the Oklahoma City Energy FC today revealed new renderings for a multipurpose outdoor stadium at the Aug. 6 City Council meeting for MAPS 4. The proposal would create a permanent home for professional soccer and a centralized venue suitable for hosting high school football and soccer championships. It would also enable Oklahoma City, currently the only city of the top 50 largest cities lacking an outdoor stadium, to finally compete for major outdoor concerts, festivals and sporting events.

“This is an opportunity to once again set our city on a global stage,” said Bob Funk, Jr., co-owner of OKC Energy FC. “It will connect and unify Oklahoma City’s diverse cross-section of cultures and provide a powerful economic boost to our urban core.”

Donna Clark, co-owner of OKC Energy FC and a pioneer in bringing professional soccer to Oklahoma City said, “Soccer is a unifying sport across genders, ethnicities, cultures and religions. I attended the Women’s World Cup final shown at Together Square and it was a deeply impactful experience to sit with more than 700 fellow Oklahomans aside OKC’s newest public futsal court, while watching the U.S. women defend their title. Oklahoma City needs professional soccer deeply rooted within our community.”

The presentation revealed two options to build the venue, each with new amenities and features. The first option represented a $37 million to $42 million investment for an 8,000-seat stadium that would accommodate soccer, high school football, rugby, lacrosse, concerts and festivals. It is estimated it would host more than 60 events each year resulting in an annual $60 million economic impact.

The second option presented was a $67 million to $72 million investment with 10,000 seats, shade structures, and other amenities to improve the fan experience. Additional restrooms would allow for crowds of up to 18,000. This option would include a larger stage sought by national music touring groups, and a secondary stage designed to seat 8,000. It is estimated it would host more than 80 events each year resulting in an annual impact of over $79 million.

“A centrally located multipurpose stadium will be a powerful catalyst for private development,” said developer Chuck Wiggin, who backs the concept. “MAPS projects are city-owned, which will put the City in a position to manage and incentivize nearby development that is consistent with the needs of its residents as well as City planning objectives — dense, mixed-use, affordable, bike-friendly, walkable, and accessible by public transportation. It’s an opportunity to connect and boost nearby districts and attractions and promote connections citywide.”

The plan enjoys strong support from Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association Executive Director David Jackson, Oklahoma City Public Schools Superintendent Sean McDaniel, Santa Fe South Schools Superintendent Chris Brewster and Millwood Schools Superintendent Cecilia Robinson-Woods. At the Council meeting, each emphasized the importance of youth participation in soccer and expressed gratitude for the extensive charitable contributions and programs to expand and improve the quality of youth athletics.

“I’ve witnessed the impact a new athletic facility can have on a community, and how it inspires young athletes and brings neighbors together through a common interest. MAPS 4 is Oklahoma City’s chance to do this on a major scale,” OKC Energy FC co-owner Tim McLaughlin said. McLaughlin founded nonprofit organization Fields and Futures.

Additional backers of the concept include the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce, the Oklahoma City Police Athletic League, deadCENTER Film Festival and Okla Cine Latino Film Festival, as well many other Oklahoma City community leaders.

Funk’s portion of the presentation highlighted MAPS 4 as Oklahoma City’s best opportunity to create an environment that empowers connection, inclusivity and community in a way that complements nearby districts accessible citywide. He highlighted the growing appeal of soccer and its accessibility as a sport to watch and play for families from all backgrounds and incomes.

The presentation identified soccer, rugby and lacrosse as the fastest-growing sports in America and pointed to a 2018 Nielsen study in which 51 percent of Oklahoma City’s direct market area are interested in or follow professional soccer.

The presentation also covered missed tourism and sporting event opportunities due to Oklahoma City’s lack of an outdoor venue capable of hosting large scale events, citing Big 12, NCAA, NAIA and junior college soccer, high school football and soccer, college and club lacrosse, international and club rugby, and e-sports events as examples of what would be possible if Oklahoma City included such a facility in the MAPS 4 initiative.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619b.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619d.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: patric on August 06, 2019, 08:13:34 pm
Searchlights?  How inspired.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 06, 2019, 08:14:32 pm
  Page 2 of 2


Plans revised for proposed MAPS 4 Stadium

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619e.jpg)

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619f.jpg)

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619g.jpg)

                                                          MAPS 4 Stadium expansion potential:

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619h.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 10, 2019, 12:39:19 pm

Update on Carvana via OKCTalk:


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana080419a.jpg)


Carvana Tower  ;) has topped out...


Come on guys, patric, joiei, rebound & SXSW, got some mint juleps for ya, it's called the Carvana Mint--time for a good laugh.  ;)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 15, 2019, 04:20:00 pm


 
The Collective

(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6264686/the_collective.jpg?cb=1560263104)
All pics via Oklahoma Gazette

Oklahoma City’s first food hall, The Collective Kitchens + Cocktails, is open:

Excepts from articles written by Jacob Threadgill June 14, 2019 issue.

(https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6264707/black_cat.jpg?cb=1560285972)

Beth Lyon’s Black Cat: Chef Beth Ann Lyon has devised menus all over the city; now it is her turn to take center stage with her concept that debuted as a food truck last year. She opened Kitchen No. 324, wrote the original menu for The Press, Anchor Down and many others. Lyon, a Coach House graduate, is a proponent of what she calls intuitive eating.


 
(https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6264708/cafe_de_lasie.jpg?cb=1560286002)

Café de L’Asie: Oklahoma City is more than familiar with chef Vuong Nguyen after the Coach House program veteran became the original chef at Guernsey Park, developed the menu at Chae Modern Korean and served breakfast at Bonjour. He also now operates the re-vamped menu at Ur/Bun.

Nguyen takes his French training and family’s Vietnamese recipes for a casual Pan-Asian concept with elevated elegance.

“I’m staying true to the flavors; I’m bringing bold Asian flavors and not masking anything,” Nguyen said. “The uniqueness of it is going to be my spin on it.”

 
(https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6264709/flying_pig.jpg?cb=1560283714)

The Flying Pig BBQ: You’ve probably seen The Flying Pig BBQ’s bright orange food truck at events or driving around Oklahoma City for years, but now you do not have to track it down.

The Flying Pig offers pulled pork, chopped brisket, pork ribs, smoked chicken, sausage and bologna. Its namesake sandwich includes a hot link and smoked sausage wrapped in bacon that can be topped with macaroni and cheese for 50 cents extra. The B-52 takes all of these ingredients, including a bed of macaroni and cheese, and tops it with pulled pork.

Fried Taco: Ruben and Kristal Pacheco operate Fried Taco in Edmond, last year’s nominee of for Best food truck in Oklahoma Gazette’s Best of OKC readers’ poll. Fans of its Puerto Rican and Caribbean fusion dishes now have a permanent place to find them.

In addition to tacos, it offers dishes from across the Caribbean, like mofongo, a Puerto Rican staple for which mashed plantains are combined with pork before being topped with a flavorful broth. Be sure to also try its drinks like mango coconut and coconut lavender lemonade.

Local-homa: A farm-to-table restaurant does not have to involve an expensive meal eaten in a rustic-style restaurant. Chef Gary Arnold and team want to take Oklahoma products and deliver fine-dining quality food in a casual and quick setting.

Okie Pokie:  Oklahoma City’s first standalone poke concept is making the move from the bottom floor of the old Guernsey Park building to The Collective. Poke is one of the fastest-growing food trends in the continental U.S., after it started to make its way from Hawaii in the last two decades.

A variety of vegetables like edamame, cucumber and mango salsa with a dollop of guacamole make a poke bowl one of the most refreshing and nutritious meals in the food hall.

Oh Baby:  Oklahoma native Michael Spencer has been all over the country, working in some of the best kitchens at places like Beverly Center in Los Angeles, The Venetian in Las Vegas and more. He returned to Oklahoma City to help open The Cheesecake Factory and has found a new home serving Dutch babies, a German-style puffed pancake.

You also wont have to wait for Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts to get a version of Strawberries Newport, as it will be on the menu at Oh Baby.

Press Waffle Company:  This concept from brothers Bryan and Caleb Lewis enters The Collective with a lot of momentum, after securing investment on the hit television show Shark Tank.

You might be used to normal waffles made from a quick-mix batter, but these waffles are made in the Liege style, with a 24-hour fermented yeast dough that has bursts of Belgian sugar.

The Collective is the fourth food hall location for Press Waffle Co., after opening three locations in Texas.

Shaka:  Chef Patton Simpson builds on his background of living in Honolulu and experience cooking in Oklahoma City at places like Ding Asian Fusion and Musashi’s to bring his Hawaiian-inspired concept to the Collective.

“It’s a lot of citrus taste that is very easy on the palate with some savory taste and a few spicy items, but it’s more soothing than anything,” Simpson said.

Theo’s Doughnuts: While most people think of brioche as a buttery piece or bread or roll for a sandwich, the dough can also be turned into a doughnut, but it is much easier said than done. Owners Ryan and Morgan Kennedy discovered the brioche doughnut while traveling overseas, and when they could not find the sweet treat upon returning to the States, decided to take matters into their own hands.

“When I came back home and thought about getting a doughnut treat, this is what I imagined,” Ryan Kennedy said. “They are not in Oklahoma City, so I was determined for how to make them for myself.”


After months of construction and financing delays, The Collective is set to host a soft opening in late June with regular service set to begin soon afterward.

The two-story space is made out of three once-forgotten buildings at the corner of NW 10th Street and Harvey Avenue. It features two full-service bars, rooftop and courtyard patios and coffee service.


Unlike other food halls that charge restaurants up front to enter the space, Collective co-founder Truong Le wants it to serve as a restaurant incubator. The Collective offers its kitchens a turnkey operation and marketing in return for a portion of sales.

Original article posted in the Gazette:  https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/anticipated-opening/Content?oid=6264673 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/anticipated-opening/Content?oid=6264673)  Get a full glimpse of all of Oklahoma City's chefs who from The Collective, a true collective among the best. 



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 16, 2019, 12:35:27 pm
Oklahoma City's Embark - Bus Rapid Transit.

(http://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11313&stc=1)


The Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority (COPTA) is acquiring land from the Oklahoma City Water Utilities Trust to develop the first station in the city’s first bus rapid transit corridor, city officials announced this past Monday.

(http://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11314&stc=1])



Oklahoma City won a federal grant this week for a bus rapid transit line, a new option for commuters between northwest-side neighborhoods and downtown.

Service could begin in 2023. Opening bus rapid transit is the next step in building a comprehensive regional transportation network.

Plans for the Regional Transit Authority envision commuter rail to Edmond and Norman, and expanded streetcar service to Midwest City and Tinker Air Force Base.

The $14.3 million BUILD grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation was announced Thursday — along with grants to Tulsa and the Port of Muskogee — by Sen. Jim Inhofe.

"Federal investment in Oklahoma infrastructure continues to pay dividends for citizens across the state," Inhofe, R-Tulsa, said in a written statement.

The bus rapid transit line will go up N Classen Boulevard to the Northwest Expressway, then out the Northwest Expressway past Penn Square to Meridian Avenue.

Bus rapid transit utilizes dedicated lanes and priority at traffic signals to cut commute times.


Transit Director Jason Ferbrache said the federal grant is to be matched with $10.8 million in bond funds and $2.2 million in sales tax proceeds, both approved by voters last year.

Other transit funds totaling $1.5 million bring the project's total cost to $28.8 million.

Enhancements such as sidewalks and bike lanes will connect to the route and are part of the design.

The service would link to the downtown streetcar line, providing an option for reaching downtown offices, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues without having to drive and park.

Ferbrache said design and engineering tasks would continue through 2021, with construction beginning in that same year. Service could begin two years later.

A report this week said the average commute time in Oklahoma City has crept up to 21.1 minutes, from 20 minutes in 2010.

Source: Oklahoman - https://oklahoman.com/article/5617199/bus-rapid-transit-wins-federal-grant (https://oklahoman.com/article/5617199/bus-rapid-transit-wins-federal-grant)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 17, 2019, 12:22:52 pm
(https://apis.mail.yahoo.com/ws/v3/mailboxes/@.id==VjN-WDNBJbMI_5iM-fKfocCTh3AZKSYGDrHzUIMX7EAqFF5-zC5wHFBAKOm5Dy36RzTc6F676llwJijNHGM9Rx73ng/messages/@.id==AGfE4n51yUjqXVQUtwwZqMBgjX4/content/parts/@.id==2/thumbnail?appId=YMailNorrin&downloadWhenThumbnailFails=true&pid=2)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-79414743cfc9282bca677ea1a04460a5.jpg)

(https://francklohsen.com/images/resized/images/uploads/blessed-stanley-rother-shrine/blessed-stanley-rother-5_1351_938_80.jpg)

Oklahoman, August 14, 2019

A shrine to the former Okarche priest who was murdered in Guatemala is one step closer to reality.

The Most Rev. Paul S. Coakley, archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, on Tuesday announced that the groundbreaking for the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine will be


November 3rd at SW 89 and Interstate 35.

The event from 3 to 5 p.m. will include children's and family activities. It is free and open to the public.

Rother was serving as a priest with the Oklahoma City Diocese when he was killed in his parish rectory in Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala.

“The groundbreaking for the shrine will be a significant moment in the life of the Church in Oklahoma and for the broader community,” Coakley said. “The shrine is being built to honor Blessed Stanley Rother, an Oklahoma original and the first U.S.-born priest and martyr ever beatified. It will be a place of pilgrimage where the faithful will come from near and far to honor Blessed Stanley at his final resting place and to seek his intercession for their many needs. It will be a place of welcome, serving all people.”

The $40 million shrine will include a 2,000-seat church, a chapel where Blessed Stanley will be buried, an education building, an event space and several areas designated for shrines and devotion. The Spanish colonial-style church will be the largest Catholic church in Oklahoma. The property also will include a $5 museum and pilgrim center where visitors will get an experience that leads them through the life, witness and martyrdom of Blessed Stanley, the archdiocese said in a news release. The church will help accommodate the growing Hispanic population whose parishes are significantly overcrowded, the release said.

Design architect for the project is Franck & Lohsen Architects in Washington, D.C., supported by the local architectural firm ADG. The general contractor is The Boldt Company in Oklahoma City with Cooper Project Advisors serving as the owner’s representative. To RSVP for the groundbreaking, email rsvp@archokc.org. Tickets are not required.  


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 25, 2019, 01:00:52 pm
Oklahoma City reveals 16 MAPS project initiatives, eight year collections,
totaling $978 million to be presented before voters December 2019.


          By William Crum
          Staff writer wcrum@oklahoman.com
          Published August 24, 2019

Mayor David Holt says the outline for MAPS 4 he will present to the city council on Tuesday “takes MAPS and the power of MAPS out to the neighborhoods and into people’s daily lives.”

Holt’s recommendation for raising an estimated $978 million over eight years concentrates on improving quality of life throughout Oklahoma City and, in significant part, for individuals living on the edges of society.

A 10-page “resolution of intent” to be considered by the city council offers hope that public investments can help lift individuals out of the traps of poverty, mental illness, domestic violence and substance abuse, and can point at-risk youth away from crime by enhancing facilities for activities from theater to video games to sports.

“This is going to change neighborhoods, and it’s going to change lives,” Holt said Friday.

“So many of these projects can almost bring tears to your eyes when you think about, ‘What is the value of a young person’s life forever changed by these youth centers? What is the value of somebody’s life forever changed by the homeless housing or the diversion hub?’

“This is the MAPS that the people created and it meets a broad spectrum of needs across the city,” Holt said. “It’s remarkable.”

The 16 projects included in Holt’s recommendation are the product of a public engagement initiative that began last year.

It culminated with 26 hours of presentations for the city council in July and early August that drew hundreds of advocates to City Hall.

As in past MAPS, sports facilities have a place, with $215 million allocated for a new Fairgrounds Coliseum, a stadium with a regulation professional soccer field, and renovation and expansion of Chesapeake Energy Arena, home of the NBA’s Thunder.

MAPS 4 would be a distinct shift from the large downtown construction projects emblematic of MAPS 3.

With the council’s consent, plans are to ask voters on Dec. 10 to extend the 1-cent Metropolitan Area Projects sales tax into the next decade, with collections to begin April 1, 2020.

Proposed are:

     • $70 million for construction of at least four youth centers focused on after-school and summer programming; another $10 million would be allocated for ongoing capital
          improvements such as technology upgrades and $30 million for an operating fund.

     • $15 million for construction of a fifth senior health and wellness center, adding to the four centers included in MAPS 3. Additionally, $15 million would go toward a financial
          assistance fund for low-income seniors at any of the MAPS senior centers.

     • $63 million for enhancing and renovating every neighborhood and community park with improvements including trees, play structures, restrooms, shade structures and
          walking paths.

     • $38 million for construction of a permanent home for the Palomar Family Justice Center, a facility housing agencies concerned with reducing the incidence of domestic
                  violence.

     • $22 million for construction of a “restoration center” housing mental health and addiction services, $11 million for two mental health crisis centers and $7 million for
           transitional housing.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/transit073119x.jpg)

     • $60 million to help finance bus rapid transit lines to northeast and south Oklahoma City, park-and-rides, and transit innovations such as micro transit; $10 million for 500
             new bus shelters; $12 million for new buses and gear to give buses priority at traffic signals, and $5 million for planning and land acquisition.

     • $87 million for sidewalks, trails, bike lanes and streetlights, guided by needs identified in the BikeWalk OKC plan.

     • $50 million with the potential to leverage up to $400 million in outside funding for affordable housing, with the intent of reducing homelessness by facilitating a “housing
          first” policy.    

     • $38 million for a new animal shelter.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619j.jpg)

     • $63 million toward a successor to the “Big House.” The new Fairgrounds Coliseum would host horse shows, state basketball and wrestling tournaments and
              other events, replacing the out-dated Jim Norick Arena
.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)

     • $115 million for expansion and renovation of Chesapeake Energy Arena, home of the NBA’s Thunder.

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-08-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F08%2F01&id=Pc0011100&ext=.jpg&ts=20190801093132)

     • $71 million for job-creation through investments in the Innovation District being developed around and within the Oklahoma Health Center campus south of the state
          Capitol.


     • $17 million toward development of a “diversion hub” to centralize services aimed at providing alternatives to jail for low-level criminal offenders. Advocates anticipate a
          private donor would offer $20 million to support operations.

     • $25 million for renovation of the Freedom Center, a local civil rights landmark, and construction and operation of a museum to be named for civil rights leader Clara Luper.


(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/stadium080619a.jpg)


     • $37 million for construction for a stadium suitable for professional and college soccer, high school football and soccer, and concerts; the venue would be the home of the
          Energy FC professional soccer team.

     • $25 million for beautification projects on major traffic corridors, including approaches to Will Rogers World Airport.

Many of the initiatives are predicated on the arrangement of partnerships with community organizations.

Agreements would establish “measurable benchmarks” to assess success in meeting goals.

MAPS’ history

Voters approved MAPS 3 in December 2009. The 1-cent tax was collected for seven years and nine months, beginning April 1, 2010, and ending Dec. 31, 2017, and has brought in more than $800 million so far.

Its successor was the MAPS for streets initiative, which is expected to raise at least $240 million for street resurfacing and other improvements by the time it expires on March 31, 2020.

Tuesday, the city council is expected to set Dec. 10 as the date for the MAPS 4 election. The council will adopt various housekeeping measures to meet legal requirements for scheduling and conducting the election.

The resolution of intent amounts to a promise to voters by the city council to complete MAPS 4 as outlined in the resolution, in a timely way and within budget.

Council members adhere to the promises made to voters to maintain MAPS’ credibility and in hopes of maintaining voters’ support for further extensions.

MAPS is a temporary sales tax first approved by voters in 1993 and renewed several times since, including for MAPS for Kids, which renovated and/or constructed public schools throughout Oklahoma City.

MAPS is unique in municipal finance in that projects are constructed on a payas-you-go basis and open debt-free.

MAPS is credited with driving the Oklahoma City renaissance and revitalization of downtown.

MAPS financed renovation of the Civic Center Music Hall and construction of the main library downtown, the Bricktown ballpark and canal, and the Chesapeake Energy Arena.

MAPS 3 financed the downtown convention center, park and streetcar; the whitewater park on the Oklahoma River; the Bennett Event Center; senior health and wellness centers; and sidewalks and trails.

Oklahoma City Council to consider MAPS 4 package Tuesday, special election would be Dec. 10:  https://www.okc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3148/18 (https://www.okc.gov/Home/Components/News/News/3148/18)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 03, 2019, 12:38:24 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline081118.jpg)


How migration of millennials and seniors has shifted since the Great Recession:
  https://www.brookings.edu/research/how-migration-of-millennials-and-seniors-has-shifted-since-the-great-recession/amp/?__twitter_impression=true (https://www.brookings.edu/research/how-migration-of-millennials-and-seniors-has-shifted-since-the-great-recession/amp/?__twitter_impression=true)[/b]

(https://i1.wp.com/www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/2019.01.29_metro_frey_millennial-migration_map.png?w=768&crop=0%2C0px%2C100%2C9999px&ssl=1)

(https://i2.wp.com/www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/2019.01.29_metro_frey_millennial-migration_map2.png?w=768&crop=0%2C0px%2C100%2C9999px&ssl=1)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 05, 2019, 08:56:35 pm
Oklahoma City Scissortail Park, Convention Center & Omni Hotel.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail090219a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail090219b.jpg)

Pics taken on September 4, via OKCTalk forum; Join the discussion @ https://www.okctalk.com/forum.php (https://www.okctalk.com/forum.php)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on September 05, 2019, 09:09:14 pm
That is not a park that's going to be ready for tens of thousands of people to see Kings of Leon for free in three weeks. Most of the sod isn't even down. The park is going to be destroyed.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 11, 2019, 04:12:27 pm
That is not a park that's going to be ready for tens of thousands of people to see Kings of Leon for free in three weeks. Most of the sod isn't even down. The park is going to be destroyed.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail090219a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail072819b.jpg)
Just how much of the 40 acre first phase upper section of the park (across from the new convention center & Omni hotel) is what is in question.  The second phase lower 30 acres will likely be complete in 2021.

Webcam:  https://www.senserasystems.com/public/embed/M68776484796

Like you Swake, many of us have concerns about how much stress the turf will be able to sustain for a concert that is expected to attract 15,000-20,000 on a grass bowl.   I'll be surprised if there aren't any major repairs the grounds crew will need to address following the event.

Scissortail Park construction phases 1 & 2 are on schedule: May 7, 2018 -  https://kfor.com/2018/05/07/landscaping-taking-shape-at-scissortail-park-in-downtown-oklahoma-city/ (https://kfor.com/2018/05/07/landscaping-taking-shape-at-scissortail-park-in-downtown-oklahoma-city/)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 11, 2019, 04:48:31 pm

Construction started on the Bricktown Marriott Renaissance full service hotel.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-cb23107c4bcf35e86598a2ad121a14cd.jpg)

               First full-service hotel in Bricktown
               10 stories
               182 rooms

        Tulsa developer, Andy Patel

Patel recently developed the 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites on the Oklahoma City convention center complex.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fairfield049619a.jpg)

When the Oklahoma City convention center, Omni hotel & Fairfield Inn & Suites open, there will be 738 rooms (605 Omni, 133 Fairfield) available on site for convention attendees.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 16, 2019, 07:02:45 pm
                               One Day in Oklahoma City - The West 2019 Part 20

          
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4329/35289593343_11f43a5bfd_b.jpg)
(https://www.roadsideamerica.com/attract/images/ok/OKARCround_gin.jpg) (https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/39442316_10157502070599368_3930139803076526080_n.png?_nc_cat=102&_nc_oc=AQlowz7xX-tnaBIDYZCzMbHjoPgUe1Cb3ewYVpkdt0Og0T7GSgIAlFPNjwtKeUk0bToRaQ7I3BsXU1IZWbXTnpRs&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=0d227063bc3b82c837d9d12362fca293&oe=5DF058D7) (https://weddingmapper.s3.amazonaws.com/assets/photos/12/10/192839_l.jpg)

          Youtube video:  One Day in Oklahoma City - The West 2019 Part 20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aylnL1dRR4A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aylnL1dRR4A)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 16, 2019, 07:45:22 pm
OKCTalk reports on BankFirst Tower


BancFirst set to start complete renovation of city's 2nd tallest tower


After purchasing the former Cotter Ranch Tower last year and announcing plans for a major renovation inside and out, BancFirst has filed building permits to start the work on Oklahoma City's second-tallest building.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319n.jpg)

The bank currently owns and occupies a building directly west of the tower and plans to move its downtown and other workers into the tower once their space is ready.

The renovation will include completely replacing the black exterior glass with new, blue-tinted glazing, adding lighted signage and an extended crown, removing half of the ground-level pillars and completely reworking the large surrounding plaza and lobby. The lower-level space that connects to the city's Underground tunnel system will also be reworked with a large banking area and glass light wells.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319a.jpg)

Originally built as the headquarters for Liberty Bank in 1972, at 500 feet it reigned for almost 3 decades as Oklahoma City's tallest building until the completion of Devon Energy Center in 2012.

The property changed hands several times before the most recent 14-year ownership by the Cotter Family which was often tumultuous with frequent complaints of lack maintenance and a slow bleeding of tenants that has resulted in a near 50% vacancy rate.

BancFirst has worked to secure several existing long-term tenants such as Hall Estill law firm and the Petroleum Club.

The bank also teamed with Continental Resources to purchase the adjacent Santa Fe Parking Garage from the city of Oklahoma City.

Design work on the tower is by Bockus Payne Architecture.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319o.jpg)
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319b.jpg)

BancFirst set to start complete renovation of city's 2nd tallest tower: https://www.okctalk.com/content.php (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 22, 2019, 05:04:05 pm

    2020 Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex


"Omni Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel"


(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15601&d=1569093742)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni092019a.jpg)
Workers put the finishing touches on the 17 floor before the crown tops the new 605 room Oklahoma City Omni Hotel.  This is an impressive site as the convention center & hotel are expected to open sometime from September - December 2020


New Oklahoma City Convention Center

(https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/fetch/c_fill,h_331,q_75,w_630/http://res.cloudinary.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1528900864/clients/oklahoma/r960_blur_880a9c91594c96ea86ff43f2947763b9_7527939f-f398-4a73-a2c2-8ecae87d8a36.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention082519a.jpg)

Udates from OKCTalk forum


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 28, 2019, 12:10:17 pm
OKC opens 40 acres of 70 acre Scissortail Park.

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-09-28/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F09%2F28&id=Ar0010500&ext=.png&ts=20190928092528)
Scissortail Park opening as portrayed in this drawing on the Oklahoman front page.

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EFkAI1_WwAUwdir?format=jpg&name=medium)
Scissortail Park opening with the OKC convention center & Omni Hotel in the background
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EFkAI1-WwAIKo4C?format=jpg&name=medium)[/size]
Mexican grass covers one of many hills within the park
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EFkAI1-WkAA61_9?format=jpg&name=medium)
Many of the 26,000 in attendance got an early glimpse of the central downtown park
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EFkAI18X0AEhkj_?format=jpg&name=medium)
Water spay guns provide a cool breeze for park goers


Pics, Daily Oklahoman (Top),  OKCTalk forum pics 2, 3, 4 & 5



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 28, 2019, 12:20:16 pm

Holt dedicates Kings of Leon Lane

By Brandy McDonnell
Features writer bmcdonnell@oklahoman.com


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-09-28/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F09%2F28&id=Pc0020200&ext=.jpg&ts=20190928092528)
Mayor David Holt, right, hands off the street sign to Kings of Leon band members Matthew, Jared, Caleb and Nathan Followill, from left, after Holt dedicated Kings of Leon Lane, on Friday. The city council voted in August to rename East California Avenue between Joe Carter and Charlie Christian avenues. [CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN]

A short walk from where the Followill family band played its first Oklahoma City show a decade ago, the words “Kings of Leon Lane” now are emblazoned in bright white on a new green street sign.

About 300 family, friends and fans gathered Friday afternoon in front of the Bricktown Events Center to watch a stretch of E California Avenue officially renamed in honor of the fourtime Grammy-winning rockers.

“This is truly a great honor for us to have a street named after us in a city that two of us were born in and two of us wish they had been born in,” said drummer Nathan Followill.

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt dedicated Kings of Leon Lane just hours before the band was to play a free concert to kick off the grand opening weekend for downtown OKC's Scissortail Park.

“Their roots here, their ties to us through the years, their support of us through the years, we felt like it was time to do this,” Holt said before formally dedicating “from now and for all time” Kings of Leon Lane.

Family band

Now based in Nashville, Tennessee, Kings of Leon have deep roots in Oklahoma City as well as Talihina. Brothers Caleb, Nathan and Jared Followill spent their childhood on the road with their father, a traveling Pentecostal preacher, as he traveled a circuit between Tennessee and Oklahoma.

“He did a lot of revivals around here, and then when he was in town, they stayed with my parents in Oklahoma City off SW 24th,” said Chris Followill, their uncle, who lives in the OKC limits in the tiny community of Stella.

The brothers formed Kings of Leon in 1999 with their cousin, Matthew Followill, naming the group after their grandfather, Leon. Their uncle said they played their first OKC show a short distance away at the former Bricktown Live venue, while Holt noted that the band played two memorable concerts at the Bricktown Event Center, where Kings of Leon Lane now runs between Joe Carter and Charlie Christian avenues.

“We like people to know that groups like Kings of Leon and artists like Vince Gill and Wanda Jackson and Charlie Christian came from Oklahoma City. We want that story out there,” said Holt, who spearheaded the effort to rename the street, which the city council approved in August.

Historic moments

After achieving critical acclaim for their first two albums — 2003's “Youth and Young Manhood” and 2005's “Aha Shake Heartbreak” — Kings of Leon made the leap to stadium status with a pair of breakthrough albums: 2007's “Because of the Times” and 2008's “Only By the Night.” The group released “Come Around Sundown” in 2010, followed by “Walls” in 2017.

The rockers' documentary “Talihina Sky,” which follows the band as it travels to a family reunion in Talihina, opened the 2011 deadCenter Film Festival in OKC, and the group received the Rising Star Award from the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame that year. In 2013, KOL played the “Rock for Oklahoma” concert at the Chesapeake Energy Arena to benefit local tornado relief efforts, and they returned to The Peake in 2017 to perform in concert in support of “Walls.”

During the street dedication, Holt cited the documentary, in which the Followills talked about growing up poor in Oklahoma City, with future singer Caleb sharing that he and Nathan only had two pairs of pants between them.

“They had nothing. There's a lot of kids in Oklahoma City who have those challenges today. And they can look at groups like Kings of Leon and think, 'Man, I can be anything. I can realize artistic success, creative success, financial success,' whatever is that they dream of,” Holt said. “These street signs, as simple as they may be — a piece of metal with some stickers on them — they speak to you and they inspire you. And that's what they're meant to do.”

Their Uncle Christopher Followill said the rock stars remain loyal to Oklahoma and their family here. His son Chris “Nacho” Followill is a guitar tech who travels with the band.

“It's like a mini-reunion when they come to town. It's a blast,” their uncle said. “We mark the schedule when the schedule comes out, and then we always do blocks of rooms so the whole family can stay together.

“So, it's a big deal for us ... and I'm pretty proud of it because Leon is my dad. So that sign, that's my dad's name. So, that's kind of emotional and it's pretty awesome.”





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on September 30, 2019, 10:10:58 am
                              One Day in Oklahoma City - The West 2019 Part 20

      
          Youtube video:  One Day in Oklahoma City - The West 2019 Part 20: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aylnL1dRR4A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aylnL1dRR4A)


Probably just a coincidence, but the ad leading into the video was for The Epoch Times news.  An extremist right wing newspaper (claiming fair and balanced, just like Fake Fox News) that was started as the propaganda arm of the Falun Gung cult in China.  The Chinese simulacrum of OAN Network - the KGB version out of Russia.  And Trump's newest favorite network.


Cute comment about our Soviet emulation architecture....

"End of the Tail"....lol.  We gotta get back to the Cowboy Hall of Fame...been way too long!

Pops!!   Yeah, Team Soda!

Very good video!   Like that kind of stuff anyway (RV related, since I live full time in RV most of the time.)   



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on September 30, 2019, 10:13:09 am
OKC opens 40 acres of 70 acre Scissortail Park.


(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EFkAI1-WwAIKo4C?format=jpg&name=medium)[/size]
Mexican grass covers one of many hills within the park





Oh, no...!!   Not Mexican grass...!!    Weren't they afraid of the 'evil Mexican' grass murdering and raping the bermuda  and  fescue...??



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on September 30, 2019, 01:21:47 pm


Oh, no...!!   Not Mexican grass...!!    Weren't they afraid of the 'evil Mexican' grass murdering and raping the bermuda  and  fescue...??



You guys are hilarious.

Well for the record.  Bermuda grass has been waiting on the Mexican feather grass to provide some cover.   

Just want to take this time to compliment Tulsa on its recent development 'The Gathering Place,'  it's really making the headlines--No. 1 New Attraction In America Is Tulsa's Gathering Place;  https://www.newson6.com/story/40692792/no-1-new-attraction-in-america-is-tulsas-gathering-place. (https://www.newson6.com/story/40692792/no-1-new-attraction-in-america-is-tulsas-gathering-place.)

The Gathering Place is making a splash here in OKC:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34209&page=10 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34209&page=10)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on September 30, 2019, 05:51:25 pm
You guys are hilarious.

Well for the record.  Bermuda grass has been waiting on the Mexican feather grass to provide some cover.    

Just want to take this time to compliment Tulsa on its recent development 'The Gathering Place,'  it's really making the headlines--No. 1 New Attraction In America Is Tulsa's Gathering Place;  https://www.newson6.com/story/40692792/no-1-new-attraction-in-america-is-tulsas-gathering-place. (https://www.newson6.com/story/40692792/no-1-new-attraction-in-america-is-tulsas-gathering-place.)

The Gathering Place is making a splash here in OKC:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34209&page=10 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=34209&page=10)


Well, I don't know about the rest of them, but I certainly am!

We are looking forward to getting to spend a couple days over there without work getting in the way!   There is a list of stuff we are gonna do....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 01, 2019, 11:45:20 am

OGE Energy Field at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium is located inside the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball041018i.jpg)

Live construction cam: https://youtu.be/h4LdF2PgbGQ (https://youtu.be/h4LdF2PgbGQ)

“Teams and fans flood local hotels, restaurants and shops during each tournament and their direct economic impact is more than $15 million,” said Mike Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Every game is broadcast on ESPN and, as a result, Oklahoma City is mentioned multiple times during each game to a national audience, in addition to broadcasting shots of the Adventure District, the downtown skyline, the city’s many amenities and other images indicative of OKC’s renaissance. According to Carrier, “You can’t buy that kind of positive exposure.” 

OKC hits it out of the park with Women’s College World Series:  https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/development/okc-hits-it-out-of-the-park-with-women-s-college-world-series/ (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/development/okc-hits-it-out-of-the-park-with-women-s-college-world-series/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 02, 2019, 11:22:01 am
Interesting to see the placement (Live construction cam) of construction pieces involved in the upper deck.  It should look very similar to the expansion model.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 07, 2019, 01:13:36 pm
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/0b64cf03-94a9-4c7e-8091-82d01956a712_d.jpg)

(https://www.airport-technology.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/14/2017/10/3l-image-90.jpg) (https://www.okc-airport.com/img/dep.jpg)
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/airport072518a.jpg)


                                   Airport on record pace

                                        William Crum, Oklahoman, October 10, 2019

Will Rogers World Airport had counted nearly 1.5 million boarding passengers through August, up 3% from the same time last year and on pace to set a third consecutive annual record. May, June and July have been the busiest, with passenger counts topping 200,000 each month. The number of boarding passengers is up about 30% since 2009.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 07, 2019, 04:08:35 pm

  Oklahoma City 2020

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventionlogo1.jpg)
Monday, October 7, city officials unveiled the MAPS III logo for the convention center’s new brand revealing a colorful logo for a new community landmark.

(https://www.cvent.com/sites/default/files/styles/focus_scale_and_crop_x2_1400x360/public/migrated_attachments/CVENT1.webp?itok=F6_82Qr1)

(http://www.meetings-conventions.com/uploadedImages/Supplied_Content/Destination_of_the_Month/OKCCC_cutcopy3.jpg) (https://www.okc.gov/Home/ShowPublishedImage/10310/637037240198100000)
The new convention center logo complements the color scheme of the adjacent Scissortail Park logo


The convention center complex occupies frontage on the new Oklahoma City Boulevard. Convention-goers will have a short walk to the Oklahoma City Streetcar line and Chesapeake Energy Arena.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention082519a.jpg)
Convention center under construction, pic posted by OKC Talk forum on August 28, 2019

The new convention center's target date for opening is October-November 2020


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 07, 2019, 04:57:24 pm


 
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/5/50/Area_code_405.png/450px-Area_code_405.png)


405 area code nearing exhaustion
[/center]

By Janelle Stecklein | CNHI State Reporter Oct 1, 2019
Janelle Stecklein covers the Oklahoma Statehouse for CNHI’s newspapers and websites. Reach her at jstecklein@cnhi.com.

OKLAHOMA CITY — Start saying goodbye to the 405.

With growing demand for phone numbers in central Oklahoma, the area code again is nearing exhaustion, according to the North American Numbering Plan Administrator. The integrated telephone number plan serves 20 North American countries.

The 405 won’t become extinct, but there will soon be two area codes in use across the central Oklahoma region, experts say. Current holders could still keep their existing prefixes if regulators adopt a proposed overlay plan.



The plan would allow new consumers to be issued the new area code so that existing customers can keep their original number instead of splitting the central region into two parts.

Elizabeth Sprague, director of the numbering plan, said Oklahoma’s newest area code has been set in stone for a decade, but it won’t be publicly disclosed until the Oklahoma Corporation Commission issues an order approving the overlay. She said the policy prevents lobbying against pre-selected prefixes.

And even when it is released, implementation could take a while depending on how Oklahoma officials decide to proceed, Sprague said.

The Corporation Commission, which regulates the telecommunications industry, has scheduled a hearing on the matter for Nov. 20 in Oklahoma City. At that hearing, an administrative law judge will hear about the overlay plan and has until Jan. 7 to make a recommendation. The Corporation Commission will then consider the recommendation and issue an order.

It could be early 2020 before that order is issued, said Sarah Terry-Cobo, a spokeswoman for the state agency.

State officials are currently expecting the eventual exhaustion of the 405 around the end of 2021, but it all depends on how many people sign up for new phones, Terry-Cobo said.

The biggest impact current consumers can expect is a mandatory switch to 10-digit dialing, she said. Rather than pressing seven digits, callers will soon have to start dialing 405 before a number, she said. Long-distance calling will not be impacted.

Ron Comingdeer, an Oklahoma City attorney who represents several telephone companies affected by the change, said the industry agreed that the overlay plan would make the most sense in this situation.

Otherwise, they’d have to divvy up the 405 and decide which communities get to keep their current numbers, he said.

The plan also is designed to make the area codes last longer so companies don’t have to add new area codes every five or 10 years, Comingdeer said.

It will take about a year to make the final switch after the Corporation Commission hands out its order.

The industry has six months to get everything ready to go, he said. Then customers have six months to get used to dialing 10 digits where phone companies will remind them about 10-digit dialing.

“After six months, it will be mandatory that you dial 10 digits even if you’re dialing an old number,” Comingdeer said.

Oklahoma’s growing population and new businesses are contributing to the exhaustion of existing area codes, he said.

This will mark the third time in recent years that the state has expanded its area codes.

More than a decade ago, the 405 again reached the point of exhaustion. Rather than using the overlay plan, officials implemented a 580 area code for those living outside the Oklahoma City metro area, he said. That impacted customers in areas like Woodward and Broken Bow.

Then a few years ago, the state exhausted its 918 area code, which serves parts of eastern Oklahoma and Tulsa.

Some new consumers in that part of the state are now being issued numbers with the 539 prefix.

Previous area code switches have been known to cause frustration, he said.

“From my experience, generally, particularly older generations don’t like change,” he said. “It is frustrating for some.”

But he’s hopeful the change will be easy to accept.

405 area code nearing exhaustion:  https://www.news9.com/story/41141788/405-exhausted-okc-metro-to-get-new-area-code (https://www.news9.com/story/41141788/405-exhausted-okc-metro-to-get-new-area-code)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 10, 2019, 10:42:34 am
                      

                                        More renovations for Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

               More upgrades for Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark; city sent out bids  to replace all seats in the ballpark to the tune of $1.7 million.  City plans to remove the tarps,
               restore the right field line upper deck seats to reflect its original design.

                                   (http://unclebobsballparks89.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/.pond/okc012.jpg.w560h331.jpg) (http://www.offbeat.group.shef.ac.uk/statues/images/baseball/Spahn_Warren_2A.jpg)

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ballpark040419a.jpg)

Renovation to the right field line upper deck will restore the park to its original seats.  The Brick seating capacity will exceed 13,000.

                                                   (https://milb.bamcontent.com/images/2010/09/20/RejS7red.jpg) (https://www.baseballpilgrimages.com/AAA/bench.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 23, 2019, 01:15:21 pm

These are the Easiest and Hardest Places to Do Business in North America,
Study Finds


Oklahoma City Tops the Best List

(https://costar.brightspotcdn.com/31/78/8bc5723e4bfeb8e9194a31efe028/oklahoma.jpg)
Oklahoma City's tallest building, Devon Energy Center, anchors the downtown skyline. (CoStar)

Link:  https://product.costar.com/home/news/shared/2116409908? (https://product.costar.com/home/news/shared/2116409908?)

Oklahoma City sits at the top of North America's cities and major counties as the easiest place to do business for small- and medium-sized firms, according to Arizona State University’s Center for the Study of Economic Liberty.

Oklahoma’s state capital earned the top spot through an accumulated score from categories such as ease of starting a business, paying taxes, employing people, registering property and obtaining electricity. The study looked at regulations in 115 cities and counties across 92 states, provinces and districts in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The categories for starting a business, employing workers and paying taxes made up 80% of the score for each area. . .


(https://costar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/7c73589/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1800x1149+0+0/resize/1800x1149!/quality/100/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcostar.brightspotcdn.com%2F24%2Fa7%2Fe46c7278466c8f4dca5179733bfa%2Fonlydata-2.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 26, 2019, 12:22:20 pm
OKC Mayor David Holt to join Rother shrine groundbreaking


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-10-26/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F10%2F26&id=Pc0100100&ext=.jpg&ts=20191026132916)
(pic, Oklahoman 10-26-19 Saturday edition)

          Mayor David Holt will participant in the groundbreaking for the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine set for 3 p.m. Nov. 3 at SE 89, between Shields Boulevard and Interstate 35.

          The ceremonial groundbreaking by the Oklahoma Roman Catholic leaders will signal the construction of the Blessed Father Stanley Rother Shine & the 2,000 seat Roman        
          Catholic Church Basilica planned for Oklahoma City.

          “It will be a place of pilgrimage where the faithful will come from near and far to honor Blessed Stanley at his final resting place and to seek his intercession for their many   
            needs. It will be a place of welcome, serving all people,” Archbishop Coakley said.

          Link:  http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx (http://"http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx")


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 31, 2019, 11:48:36 am
Construction update on BankFirst Tower

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319n.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst091319o.jpg)

The $63 million makeover of BancFirst Tower, originally home to Liberty Bank, will include an all new blue-tinted glass exterior as part of amended plans being submitted to the Downtown Design Review Committee. [RENDERING BY BOCKUS-PAYNE ARCHITECTS]

The exterior work is expected to take about 18 months. Harlow said work on the lobby, plaza and concourse along with the exterior skin will start this fall.

"We are going to redo the skin,” Harlow said. “We weren’t certain we were going to do it. It is 50-year-old single pane glass, and you can do all the work you can on the HVAC, but it’s still 50-year-old single pane glass. We’ll basically have a brand-new building when we are done.”

Other exterior changes will include the building's rooftop, dark for the past couple of years, that will be re-lit with a new illuminated BancFirst logo.

The lobby, meanwhile, will include new entrances, new flooring, ceiling and lighting, renovated Petroleum Deli space on the building's northeast corner, new elevator cab interiors, a new security desk, bank tellers on the west side and a glass curtain wall.--Oklahoman



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 31, 2019, 11:56:18 am


OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – As state leaders get ready for the REAL ID Act to go into effect next year, they are releasing what the state’s compliant driver’s licenses will look like in the future.

                             (https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/drivers-license.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&w=740&h=408&crop=1)

According to the latest timeline given to the Department of Public Safety by the vendor, the project maintains its progression toward the estimated target date of April 2020 for initial rollout. Additionally, full statewide implementation will be completed by September 2020,” the state’s latest extension request read.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on October 31, 2019, 12:55:02 pm
Oklahoma City proposed MAPS 4 Initiative will present 16 projects totaling $978 million to be placed on the December 10th ballot to go to the voters for approval.

                                   (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-10-16/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F10%2F16&id=Pc0011000&ext=.jpg&ts=20191016094203)


Top 4 projects (25% of MAPS 4 represents $452 million):


Park enhancements - The MAPS 4 parks package allocates $140 million toward the city’s parks system.

About $63 million is to upgrade every municipal neighborhood and community park outside the central business district. Improvements potentially include bathrooms, playground equipment, shade structures, splashpads, furnishings, trees, paths, activity facilities and signage.

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)

Chesapeake Energy Arena - An allocation of $115 million would fund capital maintenance and provide fan and tenant enhancements to Chesapeake Energy Arena.

                    (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/douglasspark5.jpg)

Youth centers - A $110 million package would be for the construction of four new youth centers. The centers would include programs such as athletics, arts, family, health and education.

                     (https://www.405magazine.com/images/cache/cache_6/cache_d/cache_e/Inthe405-01-Bike-Paths-88f63ed6.jpeg?ver=1488825619&aspectratio=1)

Sidewalks, trails, bike lanes - MAPS 4 would provide $87 million for sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and streetlights.

First, $55 million is for the construction of sidewalks, sidewalk amenities and placemaking, including trees, sustainable infrastructure, landscaping, drainage and public art.

                      (https://journalrecord.com/files/2016/05/bb-okc-bus-budget-bbf-5-25-16.jpg)

Buses and transit - There is a proposed $87 million in MAPS 4 for transit improvements.

$10 million would improve existing bus stops with lighting at every stop and about 500 new ADA-accessible shelters.

$12 million is for additional buses and signal prioritization to help frequency and reliability of services


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: buffalodan on November 01, 2019, 10:17:26 am
How does Chesapeake already need another $100mil in it? That would pay for a ton of sidewalks. Like you can upgrade one arena, or provide 7,500 nicer bus stops?

I know that this is fairly typical, but the taxpayers have been pumping $100mil every 10 years into it.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on November 02, 2019, 10:32:01 am
How does Chesapeake already need another $100mil in it? That would pay for a ton of sidewalks. Like you can upgrade one arena, or provide 7,500 nicer bus stops?

I know that this is fairly typical, but the taxpayers have been pumping $100mil every 10 years into it.

How exactly is it worth it to tax payers when there is this constant cash dump or abatements to keep pro sports teams in a metro?  I get the arguments about tourism, but when you wash it out into sales and lodger's tax, what's the real pay-back other than a cool factor?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 03, 2019, 02:54:38 pm

MAPS 4 Initiative for Chesapeake Energy Arena ($115 million)
of a $978 million proposal for 16 projects:


Arena opened in 2002 at a cost of $90 million--bare bones construction minimum without all the bells & whistles.  NHL rejected OKC's bid for an NHL franchise in 1997 because at the time, arenas being constructed cost in the $150-$200 million range.  NHL felt OKC could not build a viable arena on a $90 million budget--Columbus, OH (Bluejackets) were awarded one of the four final expansion franchises.

When the NBA voted for relocation of the NBA Seattle Supersonics in 2007-08; that relocation vote came with stipulations the OKC's downtown arena would be upgraded to meet NBA arena specifications.  OKC voters approved MAPS-for HOOPS $100 million initiative in arena upgrades & improvements.  The ownership group Professional Basketball Club LLC, of the Supersonics led by CEO Clay Bennett voted to relocate the franchise to OKC approved by the NBA Board of Governors 28-2 in favor of the move, with Dallas and Portland against it.

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)
                         How arena will look with new southwest entrance upgrades thru MAPS 4



                       70,000 square feet expansion by widening the concourses

                        Makeover for the locker rooms

                        New scoreboard

                        Larger, better quality video screens

                        New seats and elevators would be replaced



           (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119k.jpg)

Having an NBA franchise in OKC has greatly assisted the business community in 'Quality of Life' benefits Oklahoma City offers to businesses seeking information on expansion and/or relocation. We are currently witnessing a boom in downtown housing, business expansion, new entertainment & restaurants in districts like Midtown, Asia, Deep Deuce, Plaza, Stockyard City & Bricktown in our city.

Chesapeake Energy Arena much like the beautiful BOK Center in Tulsa is used for multi-purpose events besides basketball; it is city-owned and operated.






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 04, 2019, 08:06:06 pm
Oklahoma City's downtown Scissortail Park at night.

(https://i.imgur.com/GjtN3il.jpg)

Taken by OKC Talk forum poster, Goldfire


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 05, 2019, 11:54:59 am
Wheeler District Developments...

(https://static.wixstatic.com/media/12451a_6bc249b617d24d67b6bbbdda75fb5003~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_560,h_384,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/12451a_6bc249b617d24d67b6bbbdda75fb5003~mv2.webp)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wheeler100419a.jpg) . . .Fitzsimmons Architects


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-11-05/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F11%2F05&id=Pc0160200&ext=.jpg&ts=20191105095408)

Beginning construction of The Big Friendly Brewery & Taproom can be seen between the former Downtown Airpark terminal and the growing Wheeler neighborhood. A three-story office and retail building is planned across the street from the terminal and brewery. [DAVE MORRIS/THE OKLAHOMAN]

A three-story office building with ground floor retail is planned to be the next addition to Wheeler, the master-planned, mixed use development emerging along the south shore of the Oklahoma River.

Since construction started almost a year ago, 40 homes have been built on the site of the former Downtown Airpark at 1701 S Western Ave. The master-planned community started with a series of charrettes, or open planning sessions, aimed at drawing public input into the overall design.

                                                                                                                                                                            (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-11-05/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F11%2F05&id=Pc0160100&ext=.jpg&ts=20191105095408)
A three-story office and retail building, shown in this rendering, is set to be constructed at Wheeler in early 2020. [ALLFORD HALL MONAGHAN MORRIS RENDERING]

Above pick, Oklahoman, November 5 2019


Meanwhile, renovations are wrapping up on the 1947 Art Deco air terminal that is set to open as an all-day cafe. Construction has begun next door on the Big Friendly Brewery & Taproom. The offices and retail will be built across the street from the cafe and brewery.


Full story link, Oklahoman:  http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 05, 2019, 05:37:46 pm
OKC's growing pains..

Just a sampling of projects throughout the Oklahoma City core (Midtown, Downtown, Bricktown:


Really difficult to navigate thru traffic, a construction nightmare--hopefully we'll awaken and all this will pass.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention102219b.jpg)

Pictured above is the new 605 room Omni Hotel that will anchor the adjoining OKC convention center with a 200,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 30,000-square-foot ballroom and 45,000 square feet of additional meeting space for a new phase convention era that will extend beyond the 70s opening of the Myriad Convention Center.

(https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/tulsaworld.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/e/48/e48694e4-7b56-5e39-84d0-553e0cd572eb/5d4066271a592.image.jpg?resize=400%2C238)

The fulfillment center is a nearly 640,000-square-foot facility on a nearly 69-acre lot near the Will Rogers World Airport's Lariat Landing. A combination of employees and robotic machines work in tandem to pack and ship products within the warehouse.

(http://i.imgur.com/AQSSNVS.jpg)
Hotel rooms and suites will be on the first through eighth floors. Apartments will be on floors nine to 30.



The headliners & accolades:

The $287 million project will include a hotel, restaurant, apartments, parking garage and shops. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, an internationally top-rated chain, will be located on the first floor of the building. Marriott Autograph property will include 149 rooms; also the tower will feature 210 apartments inside the renovated First National Center.

Oklahoma City’s $288M Convention Center nears Completion; anticipates open in the 1st quarter of 2020.

New $241 million Omni Oklahoma City will open in early 2021.

The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden may get $71M in renovations and new exhibits over the next nine years.

2-year, $89M terminal expansion project starting at Will Rogers World Airport

Amazon begins hiring for 1,500 in Oklahoma City









Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 12, 2019, 08:25:33 pm
OKCTalk's Oklahoma City timeline pics

(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/1380523_527355607356063_1865855597_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_oc=AQmC4A4G9WbBS_CTXth8ZbmHBaMwWkyj6A5hA-cWbT9QYnplY8Ck9ndnxc9a0cz0pNJtdJaouq6bggrrlyhkpSR_&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=a6051466a7ea68dba55afb7664e0915e&oe=5E58E451)  

(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/1489254_563160277108929_1087562614_n.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQnvFUxs5__ile_1BifIztRzJfo44qznv_zI4uTJLNMWmN6gA6NqeyVPPxvzrxXPl_sYQTklrdN9VN9hzImffrMq&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=b5a08462729e262b1a5280170b892882&oe=5E515430)
Downtown core housing boom


(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/1507390_568458389912451_1471255379_o.jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_oc=AQlz_M_QH0DCt0PVVmQ0gFNlUMqifSz_mgu-CWAo9V8urIk1_G_fiG78KJNex-GgONGIuBmtosSDMLFxrEdPDSrD&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=3e4c9dd2f699b8855bd8803f94cfa3f9&oe=5E41544C)

(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69154424_2448799415211663_6794785115793784832_o.jpg?_nc_cat=104&_nc_oc=AQm7GVqu0TWIPtlcGee28E0-p8pDYGWusCIfeHv1GD_x3_VscMwrFqbnH7QrSuq-jhVNtQcxx7-cy-mv5sqhlQoq&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=e1e99292a582b389e45d349193a781e0&oe=5E5ACA8B)
                              New 640,000 sq.ft., Amazon Fulfillment Center at Lariat Landing - Will Rogers World Airport

(https://scontent-dfw5-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/532191_316300801794879_763411472_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&_nc_oc=AQlBLUr4l4h5r0ALouUNltoM7n-rghoCqJHttFmrtksw6vZVHES7wNndEJr8pHO5EurzQ00k_ZtGBo4Su4U3XrZR&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.xx&oh=cf6629302bcd0fcf534f5e7425dea948&oe=5E47F162)
Devon Tower


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 13, 2019, 09:04:32 am

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – As state leaders get ready for the REAL ID Act to go into effect next year, they are releasing what the state’s compliant driver’s licenses will look like in the future.

                             (https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/drivers-license.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&w=740&h=408&crop=1)

According to the latest timeline given to the Department of Public Safety by the vendor, the project maintains its progression toward the estimated target date of April 2020 for initial rollout. Additionally, full statewide implementation will be completed by September 2020,” the state’s latest extension request read.




It's what we do in Okrahoma!   Make each successive version uglier than the previous.   Like with car tags....

Hey!   I got an idea - hire an artist!!   Or at least someone with some sense of aesthetics.







Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 13, 2019, 11:00:16 am
No matter what the state unveils on license plates & identification; people are going to provide their personal critique.  Just hope we can meet with the real ID compliant
regulations.  My understanding is that the state has the information they need to move forward.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: DowntownDan on November 13, 2019, 11:43:33 am
I've never given a second thought to what my DL looks like. The plates were objectively hideous and are seen by everyone. I can't see how they were ever thought of much less approved.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on November 13, 2019, 11:56:40 am
I've never given a second thought to what my DL looks like. The plates were objectively hideous and are seen by everyone. I can't see how they were ever thought of much less approved.

Mary Fallin


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2019, 12:28:12 pm
Progress continues on Oklahoma City  Convention Center complex, Omni Hotel & Convention Center Garage.
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omnigarage111619a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omnigarage111619b.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omnigarage111619c.jpg)

These pics were released by OKCTalk, November 17, 2019


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2019, 02:02:12 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15601&d=1569093742)
605 room Omni Oklahoma City will usher in a new beginning.

Oklahoma City's core hotel boom.

When Oklahoma City opened the Myriad Convention Center in 1973; there were no major hotels left in the downtown core.  OKC's downtown was on life support.  Our city had demolished many of the historic building in its core.  The 600 room Hotel Oklahoma (AKA Biltmore) met implosion in 1977 as seen in this pic below.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-fadad278fd3c24a85eaeeaf44c163491.jpg)  (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc053019b.jpg)


The 393 room Sheraton Century Center opened in 1975 providing some relief. The Oklahoma City Blazers AA CHL ice hockey team folded prior to its opening.  Tulsa Oilers CEO Ray Miron brought the Ice Oilers to Oklahoma City's Myriad convention center to play a series of designated home games to keep interest alive in OKC.

OKC's Downtown Arena was the springboard for Oklahoma's first major league sport to emerge in our state.

Here's a video of the competitiveness between Oklahoma's two most populated cities as a Ford Center memory (Now known as The Peake) of this heated rivalry with 15,000 in attendance:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEHNsKp36RY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEHNsKp36RY)  The video is a bit flawed, so you'll have to excuse the early minute delay.  Note: Once the NBA entered the Oklahoma City market, the Ford Center was configured to be a less friendly venue for ice hockey for which the arena was originally designed.

Oklahoma City's hotel boom:  OKC currently boasts 4,506 rooms in the downtown-midtown-bricktown core of which 1,069 are under construction and 356 in the planning stages.  Under construction are the 605 room OKC Omni; remodeled First National Center which will have a 149 room first class Marriott Autograph; the center will include 190 apartments.  A 185 room Bricktown Renaissance and recently completed 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites on the convention center complex that will provide 738 rooms on the convention center site available for convention attendees.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fairfield049619a.jpg)

(https://frightfind.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/the-skirvin-hilton-haunted-hotel.jpg)

The city provided funds to jump start preservation efforts to save the Historic 225 room Skirvin Hotel--still the source of rumors to be haunted.

With all the passages of MAPS imitative funds & recent 2009 & 2017 general obligation bonds, Oklahoma City will have invested more than $2.5 billion in new construction and improvements in public development; this has yielded an estimated $8 billion in total economic impact on the OKC economy since 1993.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2019, 03:18:29 pm
Oklahoma City plans for second pedestrian bridge

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/pedbridge1.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/pedbridge2.jpg)
Pics via OKCTalk

Skydance pedestrian bride (below), inspired by Oklahoma’s state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher, overlooks the OKC skyline. Construction of the bride totaled in excess of $6 million has become an iconic structure that lights up the skyline crossing the OKC I-40 crosstown expressway on Shields Boulevard.

(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3IpMEA91nFI/maxresdefault.jpg)
The bridge is a 380-foot-long pedestrian bridge with a 197-foot-tall sculpture.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2019, 03:55:49 pm
Oklahoma City's 2020 MAPS 4 $978 million initiative.

Chesapeake Energy Arena's future...

  ...MAPS 4 proposal for Chesapeake would prolong life of arena, backers say

Excerpts from the November 17 Oklahoman:

         
(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-11-17/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F11%2F17&id=Pc0010600&ext=.jpg&ts=20191117144552)
Tom Anderson, special projects manager with the city of Oklahoma City, talks about Loud City recently at Chesapeake Energy Arena.[SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN]

The MAPS 4 proposal on the ballot next month includes more than $100 million to update Chesapeake Energy Arena to keep it competitive as an NBA host and concert site, according to those who developed a wish list for the building...

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)
• An expansion of the area at the northeast entry, where about 60% of patrons pass through, creating a pinch point before games or concerts. The expansion would allow more space for foot traffic. Planners also want to move the souvenir store to that vicinity and create a food court.

70,000 square feet expansion by widening the concourses

                        Makeover for the locker rooms
                        New scoreboard
                        Larger, better quality video screens
                        New seats and elevators would be replaced


...Oklahoma City voters will decide on Dec. 10 whether to extend the MAPS penny sales tax for eight years to fund nearly $1 billion in projects. An estimated $115 million would go toward Chesapeake and the Thunder’s practice facility in northwest Oklahoma City. If sales tax revenue meets projections, the arena would receive about $104 million, with the rest going to the practice facility.

The arena was built for $89.5 million. When the Thunder moved to Oklahoma City in 2008, voters approved a sales tax increase that provided about $93 million to upgrade the arena to NBA specifications. Should the MAPS 4 proposal pass and the proposed improvements be made, the arena’s total cost would approach $300 million.

About half of the money targeted for the arena would be used to give fans more space, more food options and more restrooms, according to Anderson.

Anderson said setting rental rates for the NBA team and touring acts was “a delicate balance.”

Promoters can find another venue, often within 150 miles, if they don’t like the rate, Anderson said. The arena competes with the BOK Center in Tulsa for shows, even though both are managed by the same company.

...Mahoney said the Thunder did not approach the city about including Chesapeake upgrades in MAPS 4 and that there is no implicit threat from the team to move if the improvements aren’t made.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 17, 2019, 07:26:15 pm
Mary Fallin


That's  Mary Failin'.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on November 17, 2019, 07:28:53 pm
No matter what the state unveils on license plates & identification; people are going to provide their personal critique.  Just hope we can meet with the real ID compliant
regulations.  My understanding is that the state has the information they need to move forward.



That state has had the information they need since real ID started years ago.  The state actively chose NOT to go along with it.  Just one more thing putting us at the bottom of list of good things and top of lists of bad things for the state.  We are proactively chasing Mississippi to the bottom, hoping to beat them every step along the way.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 17, 2019, 10:52:42 pm

That state has had the information they need since real ID started years ago.  The state actively chose NOT to go along with it.  Just one more thing putting us at the bottom of list of good things and top of lists of bad things for the state.  We are proactively chasing Mississippi to the bottom, hoping to beat them every step along the way.


                    (http://media.fotki.com/1_p,rttfrkwqkdbswkbxswswsgdkfwbfg,vi/brstgdrkkxbrwbqgtbbxbsfgbftkk/4/3735364/14170604/VeryInteresting1-vi.jpg)

                    (https://media.giphy.com/media/26AHP7PeRfcYZvn7q/giphy.gif)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 19, 2019, 12:54:45 am
Where tech companies should look to expand

Cheryl Young 9:48 am CST • November 4, 2019

(https://techcrunch.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/GettyImages-1039754106-1.jpg?w=1390&crop=1)

Affordable markets

Oklahoma City and Kansas City lead the list of markets where tech companies should consider locating. These cities rank high in affordability — where typical income earners are spending a relatively smaller share of their income on housing, livability (Kansas City tops the list in this category) and the availability of tech skills.

Link:  https://techcrunch.com/2019/11/04/where-tech-companies-should-look-to-expand/ (https://techcrunch.com/2019/11/04/where-tech-companies-should-look-to-expand/)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on November 23, 2019, 03:37:22 pm
Renovations planned at old Midtown dealership

               (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-11-23/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F11%2F23&id=Pc0320400&ext=.jpg&ts=20191123143931)
The two-story showroom windows at NW 13 and Harvey will be restored as part of redevelopment of the former Walter E. Allen Chrysler Plymouth dealership.  Oklahoman, November 23, 2019 [RENDERINGS BY SKLINE INK]

Renovations are set to move forward that would restore the appearance of the former Walter E. Allen Chrysler Plymouth dealership at NW 13 and Harvey Avenue in Midtown.

Volane Luxury Bus Service between Oklahoma City & Dallas.

               (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/vonlane5.jpg)

               (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/vonlane1.jpg)--Pics via OKCTalk.forum

Vonlane, markets itself as a 'private jet on wheels', with leather seats, on-demand digital media, free Wi-fi and snacks and on-board crew service, started service in 2014; currently serves Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio, will add service to Oklahoma City in January 2020.

Volane will target travelers and business people in the OKC market who want to use their travel time productively.

Streetcars waive fares for next 7 weekends

               (https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/04/Streetcar-at-Stop_0280mh-2.jpg)

          Free Weekend Streetcar Rides

Enjoy complimentary fares on the OKC Streetcars on the weekends beginning November 29 through January 5 in celebration of their one year anniversary.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 01, 2019, 03:42:25 pm
Interesting article in December 1, Oklahoman on city beautification efforts that would result from MAPS 4 passage.


               $30 million for MAPS 4 would include beautification projects:


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-12-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F12%2F01&id=Pc0011200&ext=.jpg&ts=20191201103657)
Water stains mark the bridges and retaining walls along the Clara Luper Corridor on NE 23 Street in Oklahoma City. MAPS 4 includes funding for proposed beautification projects, including along the east and west entrances to the Clara Luper Corridor. [CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN]

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-12-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F12%2F01&id=Pc0040400&ext=.jpg&ts=20191201103657)
MAPS 4 includes up to $5 million for potential land acquisition and remediation of the northeast corner of NE 23 Street and Martin Luther King Avenue, home to the former Smart Saver grocery store, which closed in August. [CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN]

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-12-01/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F12%2F01&id=Pc0040500&ext=.jpg&ts=20191201103657)
The MAPS 4 proposal for beautification includes significant funding to improve the aesthetics of the currently drab corridor to Will Rogers World Airport along Meridian Avenue. [CHRIS LANDSBERGER/THE OKLAHOMAN]

Source:  Darla Spice, staff writer for the Oklahoman
Sunday, December 1, 2019

Link:  http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/default.aspx)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: ComeOnBenjals on December 02, 2019, 11:06:38 am
Appreciate the OKC news Laramie, lots of good stuff going on down south!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on December 02, 2019, 09:34:32 pm
I rode the OKC streetcar on a recent visit and really enjoyed the experience.  We visited the new Scissortail Park and then got on the streetcar which stops next to it.  Rode it through downtown up to Midtown and checked out the new food hall The Collective.  Walked back through downtown to Scissortail Park with a stop at the Bombing Memorial (still a really somber and powerful place even so many years later).  I would love to see a similar streetcar circulator in downtown Tulsa someday, to connect the different districts.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 05, 2019, 02:09:40 pm
Tulsa has a more active & viable downtown retail than OKC.  Our underground metro concourse tunnels killed our visible downtown street life. 

A Tulsa streetcar circular route (similar to Kansas City) in DT would help with people movement who frequent your downtown especially if the routes covered the more popular restaurants & retail. 
 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 07, 2019, 01:16:08 pm
Update pics on two hotel projects

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott071319b.jpg)
Embassy Suites, N. W. Expressway, OKC

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni120319a.jpg)
Omni Hotel & DT Convention Center in background.
Pics courtesy OKC Talk Forum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 09, 2019, 05:08:41 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni120819a.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni120819b.jpg)

Addition pics of Omni Oklahoma City courtesy of OKC Talk forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=112 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=112)

Feel free to join or follow the discussion in the above link provided.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 09, 2019, 08:04:11 pm
  

                                                       (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-bbb0f6ff301e18a5781a28941a752b93.jpg)        

                             Ambitious OKC MAPS 4, December 10th Initiative vote will determine
                             $978 million in community, neighborhood and City core related needs.
 

                    Human needs community  

                       Diversion Hub ($17 million)
                       Family Justice Center operated by Palomar ($38 million)
                       Mental Health and Addiction ($40 million)
                       Parks ($140 million)
                       Youth Centers ($110 million)

                     Neighborhoods

                        Freedom Center and Clara Luper Civil Rights Center ($25 million)
                        Innovation District ($71 million)
                        Senior Wellness Centers ($30 million)
                        Sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and streetlights ($87 million)

                      City core needs

                        Animal Shelter ($38 million)
                        Beautification ($30 million)
                        Chesapeake Energy Arena and related facilities ($115 million)
                        Fairgrounds Coliseum ($63 million)
                        Homelessness ($50 million)
                        Multipurpose Stadium ($37 million)
                        Transit ($87 million)




                         (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-7c38f500f31aba6fadc7fd249fc7ff30.jpg)
The Diversion Hub is a comprehensive, one-stop network dedicated to assisting justice-involved individuals in Oklahoma City by harnessing the power of multiple support agencies through combined and synchronized services.



                         (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-507c91956abb23b00ab9a13d3b0134c3.jpg)
One of the MAPS 4 proposed projects is the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center of Oklahoma City. The Civil Rights Center would be at the Freedom Center located at 2609 N Martin Luther King Avenue.



                          (https://soccerstadiumdigest.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Proposed-OKC-Energy-Stadium-1024x563.jpg)
Backers of the proposed 10,000 seat starter expandable stadium are calling for it to be centrally located, with a design that makes it equipped to handle multiple types of events. It would become the new home of USL OKC Energy FC–which currently plays at Taft Stadium–while also hosting other soccer matches, high school football, rugby, festivals, concerts, and more.

 
Tuesday, December 10, Oklahoma City voters will decide $978 million MAPS 4 projects initiative.


                                

                                            
      


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 10, 2019, 11:35:58 am
                                  (https://www.okc.gov/Home/ShowPublishedImage/10335/637060542865330000)

                                         (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention120319b.jpg)
                                     The new Scissortail Park sits west of the Chesapeake Arena and the Convention Center Complex
                                         (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention120819a.jpg)
                                      The convention center facade facing west, can be seen from Scissortail Park
                                         (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention120319a.jpg)

                                                              Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex:

                     Consists of the 17 story 605 room Omni Oklahoma City (center), 5 story, 133 room Fairfield Inn & Suites (lower left), the main convention center with a
                     200,000-square-foot exhibit hall, 45,000-square-foot meeting space, 30,000-square-foot ballroom; will make 738 rooms available on site for convention goers .
                     The 20,000-seat Chesapeake Energy Arena (right) is apart of the convention center complex.  Drone pic: Courtesy of OKCTalk.com

                     OKCTalk.com reports that the Fairfield Inn & Suites is being furnished as of Friday, December 6.  Omni will have room on the complex for future
                     expansion or to add an additional hotel.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: D-TownTulsan on December 10, 2019, 12:00:58 pm
Man. I'm trying to get what POPULOUS was going for with the form of this building. Can't really justify this one with the ol' scissor tail flycatcher go-by!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on December 10, 2019, 02:52:14 pm
Man. I'm trying to get what POPULOUS was going for with the form of this building. Can't really justify this one with the ol' scissor tail flycatcher go-by!

I like it. The hotel is very meh.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 10, 2019, 11:17:49 pm
                      Oklahoma City voters approved MAPS 4, A $978 million 16 projects initiative.


               The 16 MAPS 4 projects are:

                             Parks ($140 million)
                             Youth Centers ($110 million)
                             Senior Wellness Centers ($30 million)
                             Mental Health and Addiction ($40 million)
                             Family Justice Center operated by Palomar ($38 million)
                             Transit ($87 million)
                             Sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and streetlights ($87 million)
                             Homelessness ($50 million)
                             Chesapeake Energy Arena and related facilities ($115 million)
                             Animal Shelter ($38 million)
                             Fairgrounds Coliseum ($63 million)
                             Diversion Hub ($17 million)
                            Innovation District ($71 million)
                            Freedom Center and Clara Luper Civil Rights Center ($25 million)
                            Beautification ($30 million)
                            Multipurpose Stadium ($37 million)

Voters approve MAPS 4 in a landslide:  https://journalrecord.com/2019/12/10/voters-approve-maps-4-in-a-landslide/ (https://journalrecord.com/2019/12/10/voters-approve-maps-4-in-a-landslide/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on December 11, 2019, 06:19:27 pm
                     Oklahoma City voters approved MAPS 4, A $978 million 16 projects initiative.


               The 16 MAPS 4 projects are:

                             Parks ($140 million)
                             Youth Centers ($110 million)
                             Senior Wellness Centers ($30 million)
                             Mental Health and Addiction ($40 million)
                             Family Justice Center operated by Palomar ($38 million)
                             Transit ($87 million)
                             Sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and streetlights ($87 million)
                             Homelessness ($50 million)
                             Chesapeake Energy Arena and related facilities ($115 million)
                             Animal Shelter ($38 million)
                             Fairgrounds Coliseum ($63 million)
                             Diversion Hub ($17 million)
                            Innovation District ($71 million)
                            Freedom Center and Clara Luper Civil Rights Center ($25 million)
                            Beautification ($30 million)
                            Multipurpose Stadium ($37 million)

Voters approve MAPS 4 in a landslide:  https://journalrecord.com/2019/12/10/voters-approve-maps-4-in-a-landslide/ (https://journalrecord.com/2019/12/10/voters-approve-maps-4-in-a-landslide/)

It's good the citizens keep reinvesting in their city.  It's made a huge difference over the last 20-30 years in OKC.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 13, 2019, 05:32:08 pm
It's good the citizens keep reinvesting in their city.  It's made a huge difference over the last 20-30 years in OKC.

Well stated...
...and you can say that again.  Prior to the 90s, this place was a dump--not worthy of being a flyover and even less worthy of being a drive by--unless you reference a shooting.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 13, 2019, 05:38:03 pm

                                              I-235 / I-44 Interchange construction, OKC

     (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/23544120819a.jpg)
                                                        Pic courtesy of OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 15, 2019, 06:15:54 pm
(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc053019b.jpg)   (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc063018c.jpg)


First National Center redevelopment https://oklahoman.com/article/5649835/first-national-rebuild-beginsbrapartments-hotel-rooms-restaurants-retail-and-more-are-planned-for-the-historic-structure (https://oklahoman.com/article/5649835/first-national-rebuild-beginsbrapartments-hotel-rooms-restaurants-retail-and-more-are-planned-for-the-historic-structure)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 15, 2019, 06:36:49 pm

                                                       Scissortail Park seasonal night lights

               (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail121419h.jpg)

                                                  Scissortail Park looking south toward historic Union Station

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail121419i.jpg)

                                        Pedestrian Bridge winds over the lake with a glance at Skydance Bridge.

          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail121419j.jpg)
                                            
                                                                    Park platform with the new convention center left


                                                                                   Pics via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 15, 2019, 09:58:16 pm
Well stated...
...and you can say that again.  Prior to the 90s, this place was a dump--not worthy of being a flyover and even less worthy of being a drive by--unless you reference a shooting.




I spent a lot of time in OKC area - especially near Valley Brook - over the last 15 years.  You could always tell spring was on the way, 'cause you could hear the sound of gunfire just to the east of I-35 down 59th street....  Always shut down again by Thanksgiving.  Probably due to bad weather.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 17, 2019, 10:44:03 pm
(http://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-021db01ebae4822bf61d5901e071ffb6.jpg)

Valley Brook is a separate incorporated city of about 750 people 0.3 sq mi noted for large number of adult entertainment businesses and large police department & municipal court for a city of its size.  Valley Brook has had boundary disputes with Oklahoma City.

                           (http://pics4.city-data.com/sgraphs/races/races-Valley-Brook-OK.png)

Valley Brook, Oklahoma:  http://www.city-data.com/city/Valley-Brook-Oklahoma.html (http://www.city-data.com/city/Valley-Brook-Oklahoma.html)  In my younger years, we visited these bars on Eastern Avenue at S. E. 59th Street strip; there were some unsavory things happening in the strip joints; to be fair, the management did not approve and barred patrons who violated B girl ordinances, like inappropriate touching of strippers--don't want to go into detail; however, you soon learned that the police were waiting for enforcement when that last call for alcohol announcement came.

I watched a stripper back in the 70s before Oklahoma barred totally nude strippers; take a cigarette from a patron and blew smoke from her vagina.  Patrons were so mystified; several tables with pitchers of beer were turned over by curious and excitedly amazed onlookers.

Valley Brook Police Chief claims they are not running a speed trap:  https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/ (https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/)




  




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 17, 2019, 11:31:37 pm

Valley Brook is a separate incorporated city of about 750 people 0.3 sq mi noted for large number of adult entertainment businesses and large police department & municipal court for a city of its size.  Valley Brook has had boundary disputes with Oklahoma City.
  In my younger years, we visited these bars on Eastern Avenue at S. E. 59th Street strip; there were some unsavory things happening in the strip joints; to be fair, the management did not approve and barred patrons who violated B girl ordinances, like inappropriate touching of strippers--don't want to go into detail; however, you soon learned that the police were waiting for enforcement when that last call for alcohol announcement came.

I watched a stripper back in the 70s before Oklahoma barred totally nude strippers; take a cigarette from a patron and blew smoke from her vagina.  Patrons were so mystified; several tables with pitchers of beer were turned over by curious and excitedly amazed onlookers.

Valley Brook Police Chief claims they are not running a speed trap:  https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/ (https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/)




  






Funny!   No speed trap....lol...

Always amazed me how the idiots would leave that place, turn out onto the street headed east.  Just so they could drive right in front of the cop shop...geez...!   I was just outside of the city limits of Valley Brook most of the time - back west a few blocks.  Kind of a poor little, raggedy-a$$ neighborhood, but fairly quiet and never had any problems.  There was a peacock living nearby that everyone thought blew in from the tornado back in 2013, I think, that tore up that farm on the west side of OKC.  (Orr's).

Gunfire was always to the east - I think maybe even east of VB...?





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on December 20, 2019, 01:16:54 pm
(http://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-021db01ebae4822bf61d5901e071ffb6.jpg)

Valley Brook is a separate incorporated city of about 750 people 0.3 sq mi noted for large number of adult entertainment businesses and large police department & municipal court for a city of its size.  Valley Brook has had boundary disputes with Oklahoma City.

                           (http://pics4.city-data.com/sgraphs/races/races-Valley-Brook-OK.png)

Valley Brook, Oklahoma:  http://www.city-data.com/city/Valley-Brook-Oklahoma.html (http://www.city-data.com/city/Valley-Brook-Oklahoma.html)  In my younger years, we visited these bars on Eastern Avenue at S. E. 59th Street strip; there were some unsavory things happening in the strip joints; to be fair, the management did not approve and barred patrons who violated B girl ordinances, like inappropriate touching of strippers--don't want to go into detail; however, you soon learned that the police were waiting for enforcement when that last call for alcohol announcement came.

I watched a stripper back in the 70s before Oklahoma barred totally nude strippers; take a cigarette from a patron and blew smoke from her vagina.  Patrons were so mystified; several tables with pitchers of beer were turned over by curious and excitedly amazed onlookers.

Valley Brook Police Chief claims they are not running a speed trap:  https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/ (https://www.okshooters.com/threads/valley-brook-police-chief-claims-they-are-not-running-a-speed-trap.186818/)



Reminds me of a story about a stack of quarters and dropping them one by one.  :o :o


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 20, 2019, 01:54:44 pm
Use to love Valley Brook, once Oklahoma did away with totally nude club activity; it left much desire to your imagination--in essence, once that occurred my imagination was better suited in the comfort of my home which allowed me more money in pocket.

In today's cyber world, virtual reality technology and robotics; when that significant other isn't acting right or putting out, there's an inexpensive replacement.  8) (leave that for your imagination without going into details).


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on December 22, 2019, 03:12:35 pm
Use to love Valley Brook, once Oklahoma did away with totally nude club activity; it left much desire to your imagination--in essence, once that occurred my imagination was better suited in the comfort of my home which allowed me more money in pocket.

In today's cyber world, virtual reality technology and robotics; when that significant other isn't acting right or putting out, there's an inexpensive replacement.  8) (leave that for your imagination without going into details).


Eeeeuuuwwwww....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 22, 2019, 06:18:00 pm
Updates pics on OKC development projects:

(https://i.imgur.com/rRE7uhX.jpg)
                                        Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni121819a.jpg)
                                        Omni Hotel & Oklahoma City Convention Center

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm042619c.jpg)
                                        Construction resumes on the newly branded First Americans Museum

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball121819a.jpg)
                                        ASA Hall of Fame Stadium expansion.
                                                       Pic updates via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 23, 2019, 04:28:30 pm
                               Thunder Alley plans advanced . . .

                         (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919e.jpg)

An entertainment block called Thunder Alley south of Chesapeake Energy Arena between the arena and the Omni Hotel & new convention center complex  are envisioned in the pics released by OKCTalk.com.

Submitted plans include a 24-foot diameter sculpture highly reflective polished stainless steel basketball held by bronze hands.  LED lights in ground will provide a backdrop for illuminated night artwork.

                            (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919b.jpg)

A Thunder-themed 6,000 square foot restaurant sports bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Also, a 10,000 square foot full-service restaurant and casual eatery combining music, food  and a variety of on tap craft beers.  Oklahoma City's DT design & review committee will look at final recommendations.

                          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919c.jpg)
New southeast entrance to Chesapeake Energy Arena with planned Thunder Alley in foreground.

                                                      (https://nowthatsthunderbasketball.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/practice-faility.jpg)

Thunder practice facility (required by all NBA franchises) was completed in 2010 at a cost of $10 million; upgrades (below) of $11 million will make it competitive among NBA practice venues.  Dual basketball practice courts is unique among NBA practice facilities. Practice facility is owned by the City of Oklahoma City.  The original Edmond base NBA practice facility is used by the development OKC Blue.

                                                      (https://t7.rbxcdn.com/75b189caec2341c88c2f98d6bba1b234)


OKC's MAPS 4 penny sales tax initiative (approved by voters) has budgeted $115 million ($104 arena/$11 million Thunder practice facility) in upgrades & renovations.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 26, 2019, 02:25:35 pm
                OKC Bricktown construction project underway:

                                  (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-cb23107c4bcf35e86598a2ad121a14cd.jpg)

                                             (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott080719h.jpg)

        (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ren092219a.jpg)


Foundation laid for the 10 story Bricktown Marriott Renaissance being constructed across from the Spaghetti Warehouse which will add 182 rooms to the area, developed by Tulsa hotelier Andy Patel, it will be a full service hotel expected to open in 2021.


                                       Pics via OKCTalk.com development thread.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 26, 2019, 07:21:30 pm
(https://i.imgur.com/CDj9Xs6.jpg)

Chair back seats preparation added to the right field line upper deck in ASA Hall of Fame Stadium.

(https://i.imgur.com/oJJ5ei2.jpg)
                                      Grass infield turf will be added after major construction is completed.
                                                                               Pics via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 27, 2019, 10:57:14 am
 
                              New comedy club to open in OKC Bricktown tonight.

          (https://i.imgur.com/zWKgwDi.jpg)

Noted comedians to headline a cast of future shows...

Link via OKCTalk.com:  275-seat Bricktown Comedy Club opens tonight    https://www.okctalk.com/content.php (https://www.okctalk.com/content.php)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 27, 2019, 11:34:02 am

(https://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/5-oklahoma-city-skyline-at-dusk-bill-cobb.jpg)
Meet in OKC

Visit OKC.com https://www.visitokc.com/meetings/okc-new/ (https://www.visitokc.com/meetings/okc-new/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 28, 2019, 11:23:18 am
(https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/09/Maps-4_Kick-off_Holt_Percy_3495mh.jpg)

Oklahoma City residents pass MAPS 4 initiative; what's next?

Now, Holt said city officials will create a citizens advisory committee around January 2020 and then will meet with people to decide on who will be on it. That committee will come up with a plan on what to fund when, and then the City Council will have to approve its recommendations.

" Holt said. "MAPS 3 didn't complete its implementation plan for about a year and half before that was adopted."

For example, the MAPS 3 Convention Center isn't expected to open until 2020, 11 years after the MAPS 3 initiative was approved by voters.

(https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AAhnrTH.img?h=40&w=138&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f&f=png) https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/oklahoma-city-residents-pass-maps-4-initiative-whats-next/ar-AAK2cYh (https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/oklahoma-city-residents-pass-maps-4-initiative-whats-next/ar-AAK2cYh)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on December 31, 2019, 09:11:46 pm

One for T-Town (Tulsa)

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/96/35/86/963586cb787a024bd71474bf2347ca40.jpg)

2020 wish you, plenty...




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 03, 2020, 12:34:05 pm

Update on OKC Embassy Suites

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy120919x.jpg)
Marriott
(https://i.imgur.com/vrrzJwG.jpg)

Renovation of the former Marriott has brought new life to the once neglected hotel who lost its Marriott flag; now a $20 million upgrade will bring this hotel back to life with its original luster when it opened in 1985.

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy120919c.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy120919e.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy120919f.jpg)

The Embassy Suites at 3233 NW Expressway received new life as it prepares for opening; 215 suites of varying sizes, all with great views throughout Northwest Oklahoma City and beyond Lake Hefner to the north.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 03, 2020, 01:05:14 pm
Embassy Suites throughout Oklahoma City.

(https://pix10.agoda.net/hotelImages/79444/0/380063c071989319f1190809a04b82b5.jpg?s=1024x768)
1815 South Meridian, Meridian Hotel Corridor, 236 suites

(http://sites.uco.edu/central/tl/files/images/embassy-suites-downtown-okc-real-image.jpg)
741 North Phillips, OU Health Science Center Complex, 195 suites

(https://i.imgur.com/vrrzJwG.jpg)
Lake Hefner Parkway, 3233 NW Expressway, 215 suites, 2020 opening





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 03, 2020, 06:15:54 pm
Metropolitan Area Projects 4 - 2020 - 2030

 $978 million package - 16 projects

 The 16 MAPS 4 projects are:

                 Parks ($140 million) 

                        Parks are critical to great neighborhoods and a great city. The MAPS 4 parks package allocates $140 million towards a transformation of our       city’parks system.

                        First, $63 million is to upgrade every municipal neighborhood and community park outside of the central business district. Improvements will be based on need and
                        neighborhood feedback. Improvements potentially include bathrooms, playground equipment, shade structures, splashpads,furnishings, trees, paths, activity   
                        facilities and signage.

                        Another $16.5 million is for an operating fund to provide for the operations and maintenance of these park improvements.

                 Youth Centers ($110 million)
                     
                        Afterschool and summer programming will be the focus of a $110 million package to provide for at least four new
                        youth centers. The state-of-the-art centers would transform the lives of Oklahoma City’s youth with programming
                        that includes athletics, arts, family, health and education. The new Douglass Recreation Center, which is already
                        funded, will have youth facilities equatable to the MAPS 4 centers. Capital and operational partnerships with
                        existing local community organizations are possible as MAPS 4 develops.

                        The package includes $70 million for capital, $30 million for an operating fund and $10 million for a capital
                        improvement fund to keep facilities and equipment up to date for our city’s youth.

                  Senior Wellness Centers ($30 million)

                         The MAPS 4 package allocates $30 million to continue the transformation that MAPS 3 started in the lives of our
                         city’s seniors. The package provides for a fifth senior wellness center ($15 million) to address coverage gaps
                         remaining after MAPS 3. Additionally, MAPS 4 would create a $15 million fund to provide scholarships for low-income
                         seniors using the MAPS senior centers.

                         The MAPS senior centers have proven to be life-changing, connecting OKC’s seniors to wellness, recreational and
                         social opportunities. Two MAPS 3 senior centers are open and two more are funded and in the planning process.

                   Mental Health and Addiction ($40 million)

                        MAPS 4 will transform Oklahoma City’s mental health system with $40 million in capital projects that will provide
                        new mental health and substance abuse services and relieve pressure on the Oklahoma County jail.

                        The package includes $11 million to build two new mental health crisis centers and a $22 million restoration center
                        that includes a crisis center, methamphetamine detox, substance abuse services and more. MAPS 4 also includes $7
                        million for temporary housing for people experiencing mental illness and homelessness while transitioning out of a
                        crisis center. The operational costs would be covered by non-City sources.

                   Family Justice Center operated by Palomar ($38 million)

                         MAPS 4 will sustain the transformational effects of Palomar by building a new, permanent, $38 million facility for the
                         family justice center that was first created by the Oklahoma City Police Department. Palomar assists victims of
                         domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse, human trafficking, and supports children exposed to trauma.
                         Palomar’s current facility is temporary. The larger, permanent facility would ensure that Palomar’s work continues and thrives.
                         

                    Transit ($87 million)
                         
                          MAPS 4 will continue the transformation of our public transit system with dramatic new improvements funded by
                          this $87 million package.

                    Sidewalks, bike lanes, trails and streetlights ($87 million)

                          The budget includes $10 million to improve existing bus stops with lighting at every stop and approximately 500
                          new ADA-accessible shelters. More buses and signal prioritization to help frequency and reliability of services will
                          receive a $12 million investment.

                          The package also includes $60 million for advanced transit options that could include bus rapid transit lines to south
                          OKC/Capitol Hill, the NE 23rd Street corridor, the Adventure District and the Innovation District, plus park-and-ride
                          facilities and micro transit. Future planning and land acquisition investments of $5 million are also included.


                      Homelessness ($50 million)
                           
                          MAPS 4 will significantly transform Oklahoma City’s approach to reducing and eventually eliminating homelessness
                          with a $50 million investment in truly affordable housing. This investment, accompanied by wrap-around services
                          from existing providers, will help the city implement a successful “housing first” strategy. The $50 million is expected
                          to leverage more than $400 million in funding from other sources.



                  Chesapeake Energy Arena and related facilities ($115 million)

                       MAPS 4 will sustain the transformational effect that our downtown arena has had in facilitating economic
                       development and the arrival of major league professional sports, top tier concerts and other entertainment.
                       Through an allocation of $115 million to address necessary capital maintenance and provide fan and tenant
                       enhancements to Chesapeake Energy Arena and the related sports facility at 9600 N Oklahoma Ave., MAPS 4 will
                       keep those facilities at national standards and ensure their continued success. Improvements are planned for every
                       level of the arena, including Loud City.

                  Animal Shelter ($38 million)

                       MAPS 4 will allocate $38 million for a main animal shelter to replace OKC Animal Welfare’s current facility, which is
                       dated and inadequate. The shelter would be on City-owned land and would be the main location for intake,
                       adoption and care of animals by OKC Animal Welfare. A new shelter is a critical element in making Oklahoma City a
                       safer and more welcoming place for residents and pets

                  Fairgrounds Coliseum ($63 million)

                       MAPS 4 will sustain and grow the transformational economic impact of the events held at the Jim Norick Arena by
                       replacing that aging facility with a new coliseum. The current fairgrounds arena has the largest economic impact of
                       all publicly-owned facilities in OKC, but the arena has reached the end of its useful life. The coliseum would be the
                       new home of major national, state and local events and will continue to attract visitors from around the world who
                       boost the local economy with their spending. MAPS 4 allocates $63 million to the project, to be supplemented by at
                       east $25 million from hotel tax revenues already earmarked for fairgrounds improvements, as well as other resources.


                  Diversion Hub ($17 million)

                       MAPS 4 will provide a $17 million “diversion hub” to transform the City’s approach to criminal justice, relieve
                       pressure on the Oklahoma County jail and help low-level offenders establish a more productive life. This diversion
                       hub will work with low-level offenders to provide a diversion away from time behind bars and a path towards a
                       better life, which is the best possible outcome for that person and our community. Operational costs will be covered
                       by a philanthropic donation of $20 million that has been offered to the City.


                  InnovIation District ($71 million)

                       MAPS 4 will help transform our entrepreneurial ecosystem by making investments in the Innovation District in near
                       northeast Oklahoma City. This $71 million allocation will create jobs and encourage more diversification of our City’s economy.

                       First, $15 million is for the creation of the Henrietta B. Foster Center for Northeast Small Business Development and
                       Entrepreneurship, to specifically include minority small and disadvantaged businesses.

                       Second, $25 million is for creating better connectivity in and around the Innovation District. A $10 million allocation
                       is available to match $10 million raised from non-MAPS sources for an “Innovation Hall” to serve as a central place
                       where activities to grow our city’s innovation economy can be facilitated. Activities could include learning academies
                       like coding training for all ages; versatile space for meetings and events related to innovation and entrepreneurship;
                       and pop-up spaces for entrepreneurs to showcase new ideas and build connections. Finally, a $21 million operating
                       fund will help with the operations of the Foster Center and the Innovation Hall. 

                  Freedom Center and Clara Luper Civil Rights Center ($25 million)

                       MAPS 4 will save the Freedom Center and build the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center to transform Oklahoma City’s
                       knowledge of our civil rights history, and to positively influence the future of northeast OKC and our entire community.

                       The historic Freedom Center, home of the local civil rights movement, will be renovated. The new Clara Luper center
                       will serve as a civil rights museum for Oklahoma City. It will be a community gathering place named for our most
                       famous civil rights pioneer. The capital allocation is $16 million, to be supplemented by a $9 million operating fund
                       to guarantee the long-term sustainability of the project.

                  Beautification ($30 million)

                       MAPS 4 will help transform the appearance of Oklahoma City with targeted investments in beautification. The
                       project will elevate our daily experience as residents and improve our first impression for visitors.

                       As $25 million in funding allows, beautification projects will include:

                           
                   City entrance gateways along interstates
                  Approaches to Will Rogers World Airport (including the creation of the Bessie Coleman Garden near the airport, State Highway 152 from
                       Meridian to I-44 and I-44 from    State Highway 152 to I-40)   
                  Three pedestrian bridges over the interstates in south Oklahoma City I-240 from I-44 to I-35 East and west entrances to the Clara Luper Corridor
                       NE 23rd Street and Martin Luther King Avenue, including up to $5 million for potential land acquisition and remediation of the northeast corner
                       Oklahoma City University corridor along NW 23rd Street Reno Avenue and Eastern Avenue corridor between Bricktown and the American Indian Cultural Center and
                       Museum
                  I-35 and I-44 bridges over the Oklahoma River
                  I-44 from Portland Avenue to Classen Boulevard
                  I-40 and Council Road Route 66 Public art and/or monuments at key intersections, including a statue of Ralph Ellison
                  Updated low-maintenance landscaping along key arterial roads Trees (at least $1 million)


             Multipurpose Stadium ($37 million)

                  Through the allocation of $37 million to construct a multipurpose stadium, MAPS 4 will pursue the same
                  transformational power demonstrated by previous MAPS projects like the ballpark and the downtown arena. This
                  facility would be suitable for professional and college soccer, high school football and soccer, concerts and other events.
                  Oklahoma City is believed to be the only top 50 city without access to a multipurpose stadium suitable for such events.


          A committee will be appointed in 2020 to assign which projects will be built first.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 04, 2020, 12:39:10 pm
Quail Springs Parkway, Oklahoma City


Paycom Headquarters, Oklahoma City

               (https://media.glassdoor.com/l/59/48/a7/a5/paycom-s-headquarters-expansion.jpg)

                14000 Quail Springs Parkway, Oklahoma City, OK 73134

               Paycom grows to state’s third-biggest company
                                 Headquarters: Oklahoma City
                                  Founded: 1998
                                  Employees: 3,050



         Growing Energy Corporation

         (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-01-04/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F01%2F04&id=Pc0290500&ext=.jpg&ts=20200104140244)
                                  Gulfport Energy Corporation
                                  3001 Quail Springs Parkway
                                  Employees: 350

(https://42floors.com/images/H98f6ccff5b338918704e9346d746a2a0cad70130S780x520W0seB505153O/6317089bb8fad621391dd97a4c3bb139028798a9) (https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0b/50/8c/29/quail-springs-mall.jpg)

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a820a0d29f187418bd4adfd/1518552191104-1RABZA1IRY7KXF60TQTL/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kIAxOFyGQR3Lx89o4DH4kswUqsxRUqqbr1mOJYKfIPR7LoDQ9mXPOjoJoqy81S2I8N_N4V1vUb5AoIIIbLZhVYxCRW4BPu10St3TBAUQYVKccVw9oYjzdNAKyl2nw8EiYA_-bZsoRUccscCSfUNpRoZj40r_Ofp3h0Jx3uVLEzNf/Quail+Springs+Nighttime+2.jpg?format=500w)  (https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5a820a0d29f187418bd4adfd/1518552188685-D0E9EKSRKQEUM8SK06QF/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kIAxOFyGQR3Lx89o4DH4kswUqsxRUqqbr1mOJYKfIPR7LoDQ9mXPOjoJoqy81S2I8N_N4V1vUb5AoIIIbLZhVYxCRW4BPu10St3TBAUQYVKccVw9oYjzdNAKyl2nw8EiYA_-bZsoRUccscCSfUNpRoZj40r_Ofp3h0Jx3uVLEzNf/Quail+Springs+Nighttime+1.jpg?format=500w)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 04, 2020, 01:04:05 pm

Chisholm Creek, Oklahoma City

Growing mixed-use development
190 acre development, Highland Park Drive at Pennsylvania Avenue

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/chisholm080419a.jpg)

(https://chisholmcreek.com/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_adaptive/adaptive-image/public/gallery-album-image/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-06%20at%205.40.25%20PM.png?itok=-O2Gza2t) (https://chisholmcreek.com/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_adaptive/adaptive-image/public/gallery-album-image/IMG_5419.jpg?itok=OE4QzhNr)

(https://chisholmcreek.com/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_adaptive/adaptive-image/public/gallery-album-image/Uncle%20Julios%20017.jpg?itok=0OFxDKJs) (https://chisholmcreek.com/sites/default/files/styles/gallery_adaptive/adaptive-image/public/gallery-album-image/Cabelas-at-Chisholm-Creek-Oklahoma-City-001JPG.JPG?itok=wdfc-_K2)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 04, 2020, 02:10:40 pm
Oklahoma population inches toward 4 million

Oklahoma’s population continues to creep toward 4 million, according to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates that show the state gained about 17,000 people between July 2018 and July 2019.

The state’s population on July 1 was 3,956,971, according to estimates released this week.


                                        

                                        2019
                                        Population          Name        (MSA 2018)              

                                        661,614            Oklahoma City (1,396,445)
                                        403,045            Tulsa (999,440)
        
                                        128,168            Norman            
                                        110,016            Broken Arrow

                                          94,791            Edmond             
                                          89,679            Lawton (126,198)              
                                          64,487            Moore             
                                          57,656            Midwest City     
                                          51,517            Stillwater             
                                          49,204            Enid   (60,913)    


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 06, 2020, 09:23:09 pm

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/cbd112217c.jpg)



Oklahoma City among cities featured on the Today Show (The best places to travel in 2020):  https://www.today.com/video/the-best-places-to-travel-in-2020-75948101921 (https://www.today.com/video/the-best-places-to-travel-in-2020-75948101921)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 11, 2020, 04:44:27 pm


Upcoming development west of downtown OKC to include music venue, brewery and food/beverage concept to name a few . . .

https://kfor.com/2020/01/10/upcoming-development-west-of-downtown-okc-to-include-music-venue-brewery-and-food-beverage-concept-to-name-a-few/ (https://kfor.com/2020/01/10/upcoming-development-west-of-downtown-okc-to-include-music-venue-brewery-and-food-beverage-concept-to-name-a-few/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 13, 2020, 01:33:25 pm
Central Oklahoma 7-Eleven Stores being sold to Corporate Overlords…

(https://www.thelostogle.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/expressway-and-independance-1024x495.jpg)

Are Slurpees finally coming to Oklahoma City?

The Lost Ogle link:  https://www.thelostogle.com/2020/01/09/central-oklahoma-7-eleven-stores-being-sold-to-corporate-overlords/ (https://www.thelostogle.com/2020/01/09/central-oklahoma-7-eleven-stores-being-sold-to-corporate-overlords/)


(https://s.yimg.com/fz/api/res/1.2/Vp5TEz__LNKowgczxfSVBQ--~C/YXBwaWQ9c3JjaGRkO2ZpPWZpdDtoPTI0MDtxPTgwO3c9MjQw/https://s.yimg.com/zb/imgv1/97a6561f-8f2f-326f-ad36-a14535d32244/t_500x300)
On a personal note, I would welcome Tulsa based Quik Trip franchise stores to enter the Oklahoma City market.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 13, 2020, 04:00:34 pm
QT doesn't franchise stores, all stores are owned by the company.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 16, 2020, 10:10:23 am
                              Thunder Alley plans advanced . . .

                         (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919e.jpg)

An entertainment block called Thunder Alley south of Chesapeake Energy Arena between the arena and the Omni Hotel & new convention center complex  are envisioned in the pics released by OKCTalk.com.

Submitted plans include a 24-foot diameter sculpture highly reflective polished stainless steel basketball held by bronze hands.  LED lights in ground will provide a backdrop for illuminated night artwork.

                            (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919b.jpg)

A Thunder-themed 6,000 square foot restaurant sports bar with indoor and outdoor seating. Also, a 10,000 square foot full-service restaurant and casual eatery combining music, food  and a variety of on tap craft beers.  Oklahoma City's DT design & review committee will look at final recommendations.

                          (http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thunderalley121919c.jpg)
New southeast entrance to Chesapeake Energy Arena with planned Thunder Alley in foreground.

                                                      (https://nowthatsthunderbasketball.files.wordpress.com/2012/09/practice-faility.jpg)

Thunder practice facility (required by all NBA franchises) was completed in 2010 at a cost of $10 million; upgrades (below) of $11 million will make it competitive among NBA practice venues.  Dual basketball practice courts is unique among NBA practice facilities. Practice facility is owned by the City of Oklahoma City.  The original Edmond base NBA practice facility is used by the development OKC Blue.

                                                      (https://t7.rbxcdn.com/75b189caec2341c88c2f98d6bba1b234)


OKC's MAPS 4 penny sales tax initiative (approved by voters) has budgeted $115 million ($104 arena/$11 million Thunder practice facility) in upgrades & renovations.



Seriously?  It's a practice gym.  They need $11 million in upgrades to "keep up" with other NBA facilities?

I'm very cynical/skeptical about the cost/benefit of pro sports in most metro areas.  But if taxpayers are good with public funds going to a small pot in the belief it brings more notoriety and tourism, so be it.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on January 16, 2020, 10:13:58 am
Central Oklahoma 7-Eleven Stores being sold to Corporate Overlords…

(https://www.thelostogle.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/expressway-and-independance-1024x495.jpg)

Are Slurpees finally coming to Oklahoma City?

The Lost Ogle link:  https://www.thelostogle.com/2020/01/09/central-oklahoma-7-eleven-stores-being-sold-to-corporate-overlords/ (https://www.thelostogle.com/2020/01/09/central-oklahoma-7-eleven-stores-being-sold-to-corporate-overlords/)


(https://s.yimg.com/fz/api/res/1.2/Vp5TEz__LNKowgczxfSVBQ--~C/YXBwaWQ9c3JjaGRkO2ZpPWZpdDtoPTI0MDtxPTgwO3c9MjQw/https://s.yimg.com/zb/imgv1/97a6561f-8f2f-326f-ad36-a14535d32244/t_500x300)
On a personal note, I would welcome Tulsa based Quik Trip franchise stores to enter the Oklahoma City market.



I don't really see that happening.  On Cue already has a really good toe-hold on the OKC market with a layout that is very, very similar to QT and they are doing a very good job of maintaining their properties.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 17, 2020, 02:52:08 pm
7-Eleven Inc. announces acquisition of 7-Eleven Stores in central Oklahoma

Irving, Texas-based 7-Eleven Inc. announced Friday it is acquiring a chain of more than 100, locally-owned 7 Eleven Stores in central Oklahoma that operated independently for 67 years.

(https://ecp.yusercontent.com/mail?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn2.newsok.biz%2Fcache%2Fr960_blur-394db690dfa4b826da49d4258c5e26af.jpg&t=1579287965&ymreqid=25fbd58b-0389-fdf5-1c42-30000101a300&sig=_CvVLYD5QUdx0F2dSc5sOw--~C)

Conan71:  When you live in another city and get away from the town you reside; sometimes you are impressed with what you see in another city.  First time I entered a Q-T in Tulsa IMO they put OKC's 7 Eleven to shame.  Although I visited only two QT in Tulsa--they were nice clean stores (Exterior & Interior).  We have some 7-Elevens here in OKC where they have to have armed Cleet certified security after 10 p.m.

Only feature that attracts me to OKC's 7 Elevens are the bill pay feature machines and 7 Heaven bakery products.  The bill pay machine: you can pay your bills (less expensive with cash) and receive a receipt.  If you put the wrong information where your account isn't verified, it won't accept your payment.

The bakery products are great--just don't over indulge--I don't want to see those love handles anymore where I stress out my YMCA membership to rid myself of the skin that sags along the waste line.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 19, 2020, 03:00:08 pm
Oklahoma City I-235/I-44 Interchange

(https://static-23.sinclairstoryline.com/resources/media/152ccc2e-842c-45c3-8f53-e709269d5969-large16x9_I235Rendering.jpg?1545104168117)
Foundation pillars for the flyover ramps take form in the pic below.
(https://i.imgur.com/cHXRK1m.jpg)
Construction update pic via OKCTalk.com (01-19-2020)

Department of Transportation awarded a $105 million contract to widen and reconstruct the I-235/I-44 interchange. The project has taken 10+ years to complete.

There are 11 bridges within this project, which includes building two new flyover ramps to move traffic more efficiently from northbound I-235 to westbound I-44 and from eastbound I-44 to northbound I-235.

Once the flyover ramps are constructed, the two cloverleaf ramps for those movements will be eliminated. The cloverleaf ramps for westbound I-44 on-ramp to southbound I-235 and southbound I-235 off-ramp to eastbound I-44 will widened and reconstructed. These ramps will have an up to 10-day closure later in the project.

Construction began in spring 2018 to tie this project phase together after extensive work was done on the massive bridge project. Alternative routes include I-35, SH-74/Lake Hefner Parkway, I-44, Martin Luther King/Eastern Ave. and N. Lincoln Boulevard.

This project will ease traffic into and around the OU Health Science Center Medical Complex and the area near the Oklahoma State Capital Complex.  OKC has future plans for an innovation district approved as a part of Metropolitan Area Projects 4 $978 million package that includes $71 million of improvement to the area.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-a02d97c11938c90a87fc82f2ea524afb.jpg)
Oklahoma City Innovation District's future plans.
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-c2f842a59d5ed10bd678e1f44eeb0941.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: PhiAlpha on January 21, 2020, 04:29:13 pm
Seriously?  It's a practice gym.  They need $11 million in upgrades to "keep up" with other NBA facilities?

I'm very cynical/skeptical about the cost/benefit of pro sports in most metro areas.  But if taxpayers are good with public funds going to a small pot in the belief it brings more notoriety and tourism, so be it.

After watching it play out first hand from about a mile away for the last decade...I would say that beyond any reasonable doubt, the benefits have outweighed the costs in OKC. The economic benefit that the Thunder have provided has been worth every penny that the taxpayers here have paid for it (and probably worth quite a bit more than that).

And yes, it does require upgrades to keep up with other NBA arenas. The BOK is getting a $4.7 million upgrade and it doesn't even have a professional tenant. https://www.newson6.com/story/41048151/bok-center-announces-dollar47-million-renovation. The practice court was actually part of the original NBA MAPS proposal that got postponed.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 22, 2020, 11:23:15 pm
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ELnLVmEWsAgHFeY?format=jpg&name=medium)

(http://mediad.publicbroadcasting.net/p/kgou/files/styles/medium/public/201405/american_indian_museum.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccmhallofpeople.jpg)


Now that the state is doing so well financially; kick some reimbursement funds OKC's way for the First Americans Museum (FAM).   The Chickasaw Tribe has stepped up to finish the museum while Governor Stitt seems focused on the Tribes kicking in more to the state coffers.

The proposal includes up to $14 million from  the tribe over seven years to cover anticipated operating deficits.

The Tribe will receive 100 acres of land (From the City of Oklahoma City) to develop near FAM for finishing the museum.  Could a large bank, hospital or 800 - 1,000 room hotel be on the horizon; think about the attractions you could bring to Oklahoma City like the NBA All Star Week activities & game if 1,000 more hotel rooms were added to the core.  

What are your thoughts?

Quote
William Crum
by William Crum
Published: Mon, October 29, 2018 11:33 AM Updated: Mon, October 29, 2018 12:27 PM

Construction is expected to resume in January at the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum.

Blake Wade, chief executive officer of the Native American Cultural and Educational Authority (NACEA), says $50 million has been deposited in the museum completion fund.

There is $9 million from the city of Oklahoma City, $16 million in private donations and $25 million in state-issued bonds.

The authority board met last week, reviewing the status of fund-raising and plans for exhibits.

Indian Cultural Center construction to resume in Oklahoma City:  https://oklahoman.com/article/5613264/board-looks-ahead-to-resumption-of-construction-at-the-american-indian-cultural-center-and-museum (https://oklahoman.com/article/5613264/board-looks-ahead-to-resumption-of-construction-at-the-american-indian-cultural-center-and-museum)

YouTube video with Steve Lackmeyer of the Oklahoman:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49t1GwPdTXo


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 23, 2020, 11:43:18 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventionlogo1.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention111019a.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-b66b959ff05949f018efc64673d2b10d.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-257e89251f67f96ec5b840b7d01df4ec.jpg) (https://i0.wp.com/www.tammileetips.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Oklahoma-City-Streetcar.jpg?resize=525%2C700&ssl=1)

New Oklahoma City Convention Center bookings:

Officials reported that the city is already booking dates for the new yet to be opened convention center.
So far seven national and international organizations have signed eight contracts for conferences and conventions in the new convention center.

The 2022 Annual Conference for International Economic Development Council and the 2024 National Sheriff’s Association convention are among some of he most noteworthy conventions to sign contracts with the new convention center.  National Sheriffs Association is a fairly large with an estimated 4,000 delegates according to Mike Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau.

2021 National Brownfields Training Conference for the International City/County Management Association.
2022 and 2024 Legal Shield international conventions.

Organizers anticipate more than 37,000 room nights and $20 million in direct economic impact could be received from the results of these bookings.

Carrier said the 2022 International Economic Development Council will bring delegates involved in site selection and economic development whose impact on the city might extend longer after their visit.

The current Cox Convention Center (formerly Myriad CC) may be needed as a backup for overflow; it may be open until 2024-25.

“There may be situations where the new convention center is full and we may need to move somebody to the Cox Center,” Carrier said. “It depends on how long the city keeps it open — they’re talking about as long as three years.”--according to reports from The Oklahoman, January 22, 2020


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 26, 2020, 01:28:40 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/reno012520a.jpg)
Pics via OKCTalk.com

Central portion off Oklahoma City's I-235 connection to I-40/I-35 Interchange to Dallas, Amarillo, Fort Smith, Wichita & I-44 Turner Turnpike to Tulsa). 
We're at the crossroads (Texas, California, Minnesota, North Carolina) of the United States.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 27, 2020, 11:42:00 am

(https://pix10.agoda.net/hotelImages/79444/0/380063c071989319f1190809a04b82b5.jpg?s=1024x768)
1815 South Meridian, Meridian Hotel Corridor, 236 suites




I stay at the S Meridian property on a fairly regular basis.   Little worn down, but not terrible.   The new Marriott to ES conversion looks decent...may have to try them next time.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 27, 2020, 11:43:46 am
I don't really see that happening.  On Cue already has a really good toe-hold on the OKC market with a layout that is very, very similar to QT and they are doing a very good job of maintaining their properties.


Yeah...Oklahoma City does NOT need QuikTrip when they have OnCue!  By a long shot...

Tulsa doesn't really need QuikTrip anymore now they have Kum & Go...!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 27, 2020, 11:47:59 am



Now that the state is doing so well financially; kick some reimbursement funds OKC's way for the First Americans Museum (FAM).   The Chickasaw Tribe has stepped up to finish the museum while Governor Stitt seems focused on the Tribes kicking in more to the state coffers.




Stitt is just more focused on kicking the Tribes than anything else...




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on January 27, 2020, 12:34:36 pm

Stitt is just more focused on kicking the Tribes than anything else...

Still may have mis-played his hand on the casino compacts, but he's not wrong.   There is no way those can be self-renewing with no opportunity for renegotiation.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 27, 2020, 12:57:47 pm
Still may have mis-played his hand on the casino compacts, but he's not wrong.   There is no way those can be self-renewing with no opportunity for renegotiation.


I haven't read the existing compacts...got a link by any chance?   If not, I will do some searching...if there is nothing in the text about it, then they don't expire.  And just because our entire history is based on breaking treaties with Natives, doesn't make it right.  And it still makes Stitt a d-bag for 'mis-playing' his hand.

My guess - and it is only that, a guess - is that if they were subject to renegotiation, something defined would be in place already.  But then, again, as with treaties, Stitt just wants the state to think he is a 'Trump Style Businessman', gonna "make a deal".  Which would probably be good for the tribes...




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on January 27, 2020, 01:12:07 pm

I haven't read the existing compacts...got a link by any chance?   If not, I will do some searching...if there is nothing in the text about it, then they don't expire.  And just because our entire history is based on breaking treaties with Natives, doesn't make it right.  And it still makes Stitt a d-bag for 'mis-playing' his hand.

My guess - and it is only that, a guess - is that if they were subject to renegotiation, something defined would be in place already.  But then, again, as with treaties, Stitt just wants the state to think he is a 'Trump Style Businessman', gonna "make a deal".  Which would probably be good for the tribes...

I don't have a link specifically to the compacts.   But there are numerous articles that reference the specific section that involves renewal.   Admittedly, the specific verbiage is confusing.  It does allow for negotiation, but does not seem to specifically call out what happens if both sides can't  reach an agreement.   Logically, if there is to be negotiation then there must be some penalty/leverage (such as cancellation) in order to bring both sides to the table.   Otherwise, there would be no timeline or process of negotiation mentioned.   
a quick google search will get you more articles than you probably want to read...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 27, 2020, 04:10:50 pm
I don't have a link specifically to the compacts.   But there are numerous articles that reference the specific section that involves renewal.   Admittedly, the specific verbiage is confusing.  It does allow for negotiation, but does not seem to specifically call out what happens if both sides can't  reach an agreement.   Logically, if there is to be negotiation then there must be some penalty/leverage (such as cancellation) in order to bring both sides to the table.   Otherwise, there would be no timeline or process of negotiation mentioned.  
a quick google search will get you more articles than you probably want to read...


Here are a couple of easy to find comments I ran across - guess we will see what a Federal court has to say.  Maybe they can arbitrate a negotiation, too. That's probably where it should be anyway.

Under the gaming compact, the records show “the compact will expire January 1, 2020, but will automatically renew for 15 years.”

The senate summary from the same year reads, Senate Bill 1252: “provides that the compact shall expire January 1, 2020 but will be automatically renewed for fifteen years.”

“If it wasn’t intended to renew there wouldn’t be a clause that specifically says ‘shall automatically renew’”, Atty Stephen Greetham comment.

Text of enrolled Senate Bill 1252 here, part way down the page;  
https://www.news9.com/story/41570013/house-senate-records-show-gaming-compacts-automatically-renew

Near the end of Section 22.



Commentary;

Bottom line; this is Stitt grandstanding, of course, since that is all he's got.  Well, in addition to his business "prowess" that got his company banned for life doing business in Georgia.  We do love our "bad boys of business" in this country.  Lies, deception, thievery, graft, corruption...it's what we celebrate and elevate from our sleepy little 'backwater' here all the way to the top reaches of the Federal government.

And trying to divert attention from the FACT that his record on education is just as bad as the previous regime.   Leaving our kids twisting in the breeze.  Again.   And we wonder why population growth is relatively stagnant.  And 'big companies' with high paying jobs don't come swarming in?  

Not even touching on infrastructure.







Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 27, 2020, 10:32:56 pm
Stitt overplayed his hand when he went after the tribal casinos for more money for the State's coffers.  He wants to be seen as bold.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lu3-gneiPAY/WeJbFx0A53I/AAAAAAAAcFo/bQgu694nq1AU_nGdjd1qaBEJcJhtbtJmgCLcBGAs/s1600/Map+of+Oklahoma.jpg)

Oklahoma's governor doesn't realize how powerful the unity of Oklahoma gaming tribes & compacts are; especially the Chickasaw, Choctaw & Cherokee.  

It's a no win situation if he wins, he's using money from the funds paid to the state from the tribes to fund his lawsuit.  Many of the casinos are not on par with a mega casino like WinStar.

Tribes file suit against Governor Stitt over gaming compact renewal: https://kfor.com/2019/12/31/tribes-file-suit-against-governor-stitt-over-gaming-compact-renewal/ (https://kfor.com/2019/12/31/tribes-file-suit-against-governor-stitt-over-gaming-compact-renewal/)

4th tribe to join lawsuit against Oklahoma governor: https://www.koco.com/article/4th-tribe-to-join-lawsuit-against-oklahoma-governor/30630856 (https://www.koco.com/article/4th-tribe-to-join-lawsuit-against-oklahoma-governor/30630856)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on January 28, 2020, 12:11:33 pm

Here are a couple of easy to find comments I ran across - guess we will see what a Federal court has to say.  Maybe they can arbitrate a negotiation, too. That's probably where it should be anyway.

Under the gaming compact, the records show “the compact will expire January 1, 2020, but will automatically renew for 15 years.”

The senate summary from the same year reads, Senate Bill 1252: “provides that the compact shall expire January 1, 2020 but will be automatically renewed for fifteen years.”

“If it wasn’t intended to renew there wouldn’t be a clause that specifically says ‘shall automatically renew’”, Atty Stephen Greetham comment.

Text of enrolled Senate Bill 1252 here, part way down the page;  
https://www.news9.com/story/41570013/house-senate-records-show-gaming-compacts-automatically-renew

Near the end of Section 22.



Commentary;

Bottom line; this is Stitt grandstanding, of course, since that is all he's got.  Well, in addition to his business "prowess" that got his company banned for life doing business in Georgia.  We do love our "bad boys of business" in this country.  Lies, deception, thievery, graft, corruption...it's what we celebrate and elevate from our sleepy little 'backwater' here all the way to the top reaches of the Federal government.

And trying to divert attention from the FACT that his record on education is just as bad as the previous regime.   Leaving our kids twisting in the breeze.  Again.   And we wonder why population growth is relatively stagnant.  And 'big companies' with high paying jobs don't come swarming in?  

Not even touching on infrastructure.







Did you overlook the part that allows either party to initiate the renegotiation of certain terms?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on January 28, 2020, 12:47:34 pm
What does this have to do with IKEA???


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2020, 01:14:07 pm
(https://ecp.yusercontent.com/mail?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn2.newsok.biz%2Fcache%2Fr960_blur-461d82d90dd5254eba769cc8eee03aed.jpg&t=1580236084&ymreqid=25fbd58b-0389-fdf5-1c6f-c90001017e00&sig=fhyOsu8DtTem4_0wLqxeQw--~C)
Work continues on the interior as well as the exterior of the Oklahoma State Capitol building. 
Pic via Oklahoman, January 28, 2020


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2020, 02:27:29 pm
A Pedestrian way is proposed for the new Oklahoma City convention center.

The Oklahoma City MAPS 3 Citizen Advisory Board voted to move forward with preliminary plans for a $4 million pedestrian walkway to be constructed between the new convention center, the Omni Hotel and parking garage.

Here are some pics via OKCTalk.com:

(https://i.imgur.com/CWvJaeA.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6dRh1gI.jpg)
The parking garage is under construction; 1,100 spaces will be available on 6 levels (includes basement) to give priority parking to the convention center, Omni Hotel, Fairfield & Boulevard Place.  The garage is expected to be completed by June 2020.

(https://i.imgur.com/WrSejlR.jpg)
Canopies align the 4th Street experience of the Pedestrian Walkway.

(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15601&d=1569093742)

The canopies will align the convention center side as well as the Omni Hotel side.

Omni has an option clause giving them 1st rights development of the Cox Convention Center (Old Myriad site) if a hotel is part of development once the 4-square block site is cleared. The City & Omni has plans to use it as a backup in case the convention center complex (Omni Hotel, OKC CC) needs more space.

The new convention center & garage both can be expanded; it will create a demand for alternative hotel space for the nearby Sheraton (395 rooms), Renaissance (311 rooms), Hilton-Skirvin (225), Courtyard by Marriott (225), Fairfield (133 rooms)  and the 150 room 5 star First National Center to be used in conjunction with a large convention core.  Those hotels currently have a 68% occupancy rate; the new convention center will elevate OKC to a higher tier to compete for more conventions among area competitive cities like Fort Worth, Memphis, Little Rock, Tulsa, Wichita & Amarillo.

Oklahoma City have already signed contract into 2024 for 8 conventions with a potential $20 million economic impact on the local industry.  Oklahoma City Omni will be tagged as the City's convention center hotel.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2020, 03:25:49 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst053019aa.jpg)
The new crown on BancFirst Tower will add more height to the city's second tallest structure.  Anticipate the new LED crown lighting for the tower which will illuminate the Oklahoma City Skyline--a real skyline game-changer.

BancFirst Tower reskin, construction & restoration update--all pics via OKCTalk.com.

(https://i.imgur.com/MLxvBup.jpg)
Several columns are removed; apparently these columns are more decorative than support, they do provide some support to some areas, just not the bulk support of the structure.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst120819ga.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/cbd112217c.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on January 28, 2020, 03:50:22 pm

Here are a couple of easy to find comments I ran across - guess we will see what a Federal court has to say.  Maybe they can arbitrate a negotiation, too. That's probably where it should be anyway.

Under the gaming compact, the records show “the compact will expire January 1, 2020, but will automatically renew for 15 years.

The senate summary from the same year reads, Senate Bill 1252: “provides that the compact shall expire January 1, 2020 but will be automatically renewed for fifteen years.”

“If it wasn’t intended to renew there wouldn’t be a clause that specifically says ‘shall automatically renew’”, Atty Stephen Greetham comment.

Text of enrolled Senate Bill 1252 here, part way down the page;  
https://www.news9.com/story/41570013/house-senate-records-show-gaming-compacts-automatically-renew

Near the end of Section 22.



The article conveniently leaves out the sentence directly after that one:
Quote
Provides that the compact shall expire January 1, 2020, but will be
automatically renewed for fifteen years. Allows the fees and penalties to be
renegotiated at that time.

The tribes are providing a poor argument. Using the same logic, why would it "expire" if it were to continue as-is? Why wouldn't they write it as indefinite or as a 30 year pact if that were the intent?

The double-think here is concerning. It seems many uninformed people are against Stitt in this, but renegotiation by 01/01/2020 were the original intent of the bill. If you have issue with that, than take it up with the originators of the bill and the tribes for not following the spirit and the letter of the pact. Sure it is poorly worded, but you don't have to be a genius or lawyer to understand that.

This is a case where Governor Stitt is correct and they should renegotiate. If the tribes want to keep their state-mandated monopoly on gaming in the state, they need to be willing to at least negotiate. Otherwise, it is time to open up the rest of the state to free market gaming. The win-win is when the tribes accept slightly higher fees in exchange for a slew of new gaming options. That could drastically increase the revenue for both parties.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on January 28, 2020, 04:21:52 pm
Here's the part in question from the tribal gaming compact:

Quote
B. This Compact shall have a term which will expire on January 1, 2020, and at that time, if
organization licensees or others are authorized to conduct electronic gaming in any form other
than pari-mutuel wagering on live horse racing pursuant to any governmental action of the state
or court order following the effective date of this Compact, the Compact shall automatically
renew for successive additional fifteen-year terms; provided that, within one hundred eighty
(180) days of the expiration of this Compact or any renewal thereof, either the tribe or the state,
acting through its Governor, may request to renegotiate the terms of subsections A and E of Part
11 of this Compact.

Poorly worded terms, but they definitely intended to allow renegotiation of those sections. It didn't clearly specify what to do if the tribe denies to even negotiate, but it is clear that it automatically renews so long as the governor may request to renegotiate. He did and they said no. So you could argue those terms were met, but that is certainly not the intent of it. It is disingenuous to pretend the compact is indefinite with no ability to ever be renegotiated. They tout the "automatically renew" portion without discussing the rest of it.

Who allowed this poorly written provision to make its way on the compact? It was like the perfect set up for a law suit, just because they didn't specify what to do if the tribes decline to renegotiate an-d how they can exit the compact. Furthermore, the compact can only be ended when both parties agree to it. The state might lose the case, but it's not Stitt's fault for trying to do exactly what the compact aimed to allow them to do and renegotiate.

The State has an out though: It can just make a broader casino law to allow the new game types and allow commercial casinos to compete and it will supersede this compact, but would then lose the exclusivity fees. That sounds crazy right now, with Tribal casinos as large as they are, but if the state got 12-18% on commercial gaming on similar scale, that could eventually dwarf the exclusivity fees if you're talking a billion plus in commercial gaming revenues. However, the tribes have such a head start, that would be a very bad deal for Oklahoma and would probably not be a worthy trade off for at least a few more decades.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2020, 04:59:33 pm
Presentation from both sides of the gaming compact extension . . .


Stitt:  Extension on gaming compact offered: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oejeAfJTRxg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oejeAfJTRxg)

Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association response to gaming compact negotiations:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYOfrSx5ZYY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYOfrSx5ZYY)

AG Hunter meets with Tribal officials to discuss gaming compacts:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7BnaXBh5fQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7BnaXBh5fQ)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on January 28, 2020, 05:01:23 pm
Here's the part in question from the tribal gaming compact:

Poorly worded terms, but they definitely intended to allow renegotiation of those sections. It didn't clearly specify what to do if the tribe denies to even negotiate, but it is clear that it automatically renews so long as the governor may request to renegotiate. He did and they said no. So you could argue those terms were met, but that is certainly not the intent of it. It is disingenuous to pretend the compact is indefinite with no ability to ever be renegotiated. They tout the "automatically renew" portion without discussing the rest of it.

Who allowed this poorly written provision to make its way on the compact? It was like the perfect set up for a law suit, just because they didn't specify what to do if the tribes decline to renegotiate an-d how they can exit the compact. Furthermore, the compact can only be ended when both parties agree to it. The state might lose the case, but it's not Stitt's fault for trying to do exactly what the compact aimed to allow them to do and renegotiate.

The State has an out though: It can just make a broader casino law to allow the new game types and allow commercial casinos to compete and it will supersede this compact, but would then lose the exclusivity fees. That sounds crazy right now, with Tribal casinos as large as they are, but if the state got 12-18% on commercial gaming on similar scale, that could eventually dwarf the exclusivity fees if you're talking a billion plus in commercial gaming revenues. However, the tribes have such a head start, that would be a very bad deal for Oklahoma and would probably not be a worthy trade off for at least a few more decades.

In that case, the state would get nothing from Tribal casinos and any profits from commercial gaming would go out of state. A lose-lose.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 28, 2020, 05:07:36 pm

Chickasaw Nation response to gaming compact negotiations:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 28, 2020, 09:04:58 pm
Did you overlook the part that allows either party to initiate the renegotiation of certain terms?


Nope.  Saw that.  Terms along the lines of rates.  Not the basic underlying compact existence.  Stitt appears (to me, anyway) to be saying that if we can't get our way, then we are just gonna kill it completely.  That is not allowed for at least 15 years in those documents.

If no agreement on renegotiation can be reached, then do the old rates stay in place?   Guess a court will tell us that....





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 28, 2020, 09:06:08 pm
What does this have to do with IKEA???


Lol...good question...what does anything on this thread have to do with IKEA?



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 28, 2020, 09:24:57 pm
The article conveniently leaves out the sentence directly after that one:
The tribes are providing a poor argument. Using the same logic, why would it "expire" if it were to continue as-is? Why wouldn't they write it as indefinite or as a 30 year pact if that were the intent?

The double-think here is concerning. It seems many uninformed people are against Stitt in this, but renegotiation by 01/01/2020 were the original intent of the bill. If you have issue with that, than take it up with the originators of the bill and the tribes for not following the spirit and the letter of the pact. Sure it is poorly worded, but you don't have to be a genius or lawyer to understand that.

This is a case where Governor Stitt is correct and they should renegotiate. If the tribes want to keep their state-mandated monopoly on gaming in the state, they need to be willing to at least negotiate. Otherwise, it is time to open up the rest of the state to free market gaming. The win-win is when the tribes accept slightly higher fees in exchange for a slew of new gaming options. That could drastically increase the revenue for both parties.


First, let me be absolutely crystal clear so there is NO uncertainty in anyone's mind - I am absolutely against Stitt in everything I have seen or heard from him since he first announced running for Governor.  Maybe it's that fraudulent, criminal business enterprise he ran that got him banned for life from doing business in Georgia... yeah, that's part of it.   His lies and subsequent massive failure for education in this state is another big part of it.  His d-baggery related to the Tribes in general is just another item to 'pile on' about.   (I also hate casinos and lotteries, but that is a whole other horse of a different kettle of fish...)

As for being uninformed, well maybe.  But I read the text of the bill.  Did you??   And even other reporting on the bill alludes to ambiguities.  Yeah.  It's a poorly written bill.  About what we should expect from OK legislature, isn't it?   But if you have all-knowing enlightenment about the intent when written, maybe file a friend of the court brief...?

As for renegotiation, well, maybe they should.  Maybe they shouldn't.  It's for them to say.  

"may request to renegotiate the terms"    Nothing says either side is compelled to renegotiate.

But until that process is complete, the old compact is to remain in place.  As defined by the bill.  If Stitt doesn't like it, well, tough - I guess that's what courts are for and why it's headed to court.  At least that part of the bill is pretty clear - the agreement stays in place until such time.


That article may leave that out, but the text of the bill passed has it.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 28, 2020, 09:31:08 pm
Chickasaw Nation response to gaming compact negotiations:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc)


Exactly!

Excellent explanation.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on January 29, 2020, 08:55:54 am

First, let me be absolutely crystal clear so there is NO uncertainty in anyone's mind - I am absolutely against Stitt in everything I have seen or heard from him since he first announced running for Governor.  Maybe it's that fraudulent, criminal business enterprise he ran that got him banned for life from doing business in Georgia... yeah, that's part of it.   His lies and subsequent massive failure for education in this state is another big part of it.  His d-baggery related to the Tribes in general is just another item to 'pile on' about.   (I also hate casinos and lotteries, but that is a whole other horse of a different kettle of fish...)

As for being uninformed, well maybe.  But I read the text of the bill.  Did you??   And even other reporting on the bill alludes to ambiguities.  Yeah.  It's a poorly written bill.  About what we should expect from OK legislature, isn't it?   But if you have all-knowing enlightenment about the intent when written, maybe file a friend of the court brief...?

As for renegotiation, well, maybe they should.  Maybe they shouldn't.  It's for them to say.  

"may request to renegotiate the terms"    Nothing says either side is compelled to renegotiate.

But until that process is complete, the old compact is to remain in place.  As defined by the bill.  If Stitt doesn't like it, well, tough - I guess that's what courts are for and why it's headed to court.  At least that part of the bill is pretty clear - the agreement stays in place until such time.


That article may leave that out, but the text of the bill passed has it.




I'm well aware you don't like Stitt. I'm not a big fan either (the Trump worship during his campaign was concerning). This whole issue is on the original bill writers who left it so ambiguously worded. The pact does automatically renew, but the intent was to allow renegotiation of rates every 15 years while the compact renews. There's no teeth forcing either party to renegotiate. I don't like how Stitt is handling it at all, but I am glad he is trying to fight for more revenue and offer more games. The tribes do have an amazing deal here compared to other states.

Overall the casinos are a complete shame, but you're right that's another topic. I guess if people want to be surrounded by toxic air and throw their money away, might as well have it go to support the tribes who have been screwed over at every turn by every authority since European settlers arrived on this continent. I would hate commercial casinos and that's sort of an unrealistic threat by Stitt.


I saw one tribe said they would renegotiate rates if Stitt admitted it renews, but he refused to say that. He is wrong on that account. If he'd just meet them in the middle on that, he might actually have some success.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on January 29, 2020, 09:15:46 am
The pact does automatically renew, but the intent was to allow renegotiation of rates every 15 years while the compact renews. There's no teeth forcing either party to renegotiate. I don't like how Stitt is handling it at all, but I am glad he is trying to fight for more revenue and offer more games. The tribes do have an amazing deal here compared to other states.

This was/is my basic point from earlier.  Intuitively, it makes no sense to allow for renegotiation if there is a no "stick", no power provided to either side as a means of leverage in the negotiation. Otherwise, it would never, ever, change and that cannot be the intent.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: TulsaGoldenHurriCAN on January 29, 2020, 04:59:24 pm
This was/is my basic point from earlier.  Intuitively, it makes no sense to allow for renegotiation if there is a no "stick", no power provided to either side as a means of leverage in the negotiation. Otherwise, it would never, ever, change and that cannot be the intent.


It was the intent though as stated in the Oklahoma State legislature's summary of the compact:

Quote
Provides that the compact shall expire January 1, 2020, but will be
automatically renewed for fifteen years. Allows the fees and penalties to be
renegotiated at that time.

Let's be honest. Quite a few, if not the majority of Oklahoma legislators read the summary and not the actual compact before voting (more likely having one of their aides read the entire compact). They probably assumed the legalese was correct, but the writers of the compact messed up pretty badly with the actual wording.

Both sides should just sit down and discuss adding new games and that a slight adjustment to the rates could be on the table. They should be allowed to continue the pact as-is until they come up with a new agreement to add new games and slightly adjust the rates. The new agreement should have better verbiage and should supercede this one.

However, the tribes probably like their insanely good deal as-is and would rather have no new games and continue it indefinitely.

Does anyone know if the compact is voided, can the tribes still have any gambling at all or is that the under state's purview?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 30, 2020, 06:24:11 pm
I'm well aware you don't like Stitt. I'm not a big fan either (the Trump worship during his campaign was concerning). This whole issue is on the original bill writers who left it so ambiguously worded. The pact does automatically renew, but the intent was to allow renegotiation of rates every 15 years while the compact renews. There's no teeth forcing either party to renegotiate. I don't like how Stitt is handling it at all, but I am glad he is trying to fight for more revenue and offer more games. The tribes do have an amazing deal here compared to other states.

Overall the casinos are a complete shame, but you're right that's another topic. I guess if people want to be surrounded by toxic air and throw their money away, might as well have it go to support the tribes who have been screwed over at every turn by every authority since European settlers arrived on this continent. I would hate commercial casinos and that's sort of an unrealistic threat by Stitt.


I saw one tribe said they would renegotiate rates if Stitt admitted it renews, but he refused to say that. He is wrong on that account. If he'd just meet them in the middle on that, he might actually have some success.


Did you watch the Greetham comments on this?  It's not exactly an insanely good deal.  It is a good deal for both sides, in particular when you look at the dollars per capita instead of just going after percentages.  The $402 per person vs a higher percentage state that gets about $60 something (memory fog on this one...)   And we are apparently located right in the neighborhood of all similar deals.  Except that one 25% outlier.

OK is getting a lot of money.   The Tribes get a lot of money.  Like someone said earlier, we could just burn it to the ground and nobody gets a whole lot of nothing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc


In addition, there is only ONE automatic renewal.  At the end of the next 15 it becomes a whole new discussion from ground up.  If the Tribes see some benefit to be gained, then they will renegotiate.  Stitt obviously shows he thinks he a a great "deal maker" - but really he is just another Trump Sychophant.   (Yeah, that is the right spelling for his case.  Pronounced like Psycho-phant.)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on January 31, 2020, 08:43:32 am

Did you watch the Greetham comments on this?  It's not exactly an insanely good deal.  It is a good deal for both sides, in particular when you look at the dollars per capita instead of just going after percentages.  The $402 per person vs a higher percentage state that gets about $60 something (memory fog on this one...)   And we are apparently located right in the neighborhood of all similar deals.  Except that one 25% outlier.

OK is getting a lot of money.   The Tribes get a lot of money.  Like someone said earlier, we could just burn it to the ground and nobody gets a whole lot of nothing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jbUY3VYFUc


In addition, there is only ONE automatic renewal.  At the end of the next 15 it becomes a whole new discussion from ground up.  If the Tribes see some benefit to be gained, then they will renegotiate.  Stitt obviously shows he thinks he a a great "deal maker" - but really he is just another Trump Sychophant.   (Yeah, that is the right spelling for his case.  Pronounced like Psycho-phant.)

It will be interesting to see how it plays out.   Where I think Stitt messed up is going directly to the "stick" instead of the carrott.   But again, it makes no sense that it would automatically renew if one side wants to renegotiate. (IMHO,  the auto-renew was put in to alleviate any legislative action, assuming no issues, which makes sense.)  

Also, because I can't help myself,  it is "sick-a-fant", with a soft "i"...   (Edit:  OK, I get the joke now, my bad...)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on January 31, 2020, 09:59:31 am
It will be interesting to see how it plays out.   Where I think Stitt messed up is going directly to the "stick" instead of the carrott.   But again, it makes no sense that it would automatically renew if one side wants to renegotiate. (IMHO,  the auto-renew was put in to alleviate any legislative action, assuming no issues, which makes sense.)  

Also, because I can't help myself,  it is "sick-a-fant", with a soft "i"...   (Edit:  OK, I get the joke now, my bad...)


Yeah...the real word is sycophant.   I just kinda liked the play on words/letters that gave...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 31, 2020, 01:02:10 pm
Stitt should have approached the Tribes with a concern that the state needs more money, what can we do for you to help us reach our goal where it's a win-win situation for both.   The State of Oklahoma has $600 million in its rainy day fund; economy continues to prosper; however Stitt decided he was going to push the tribes around with this awkward style bullying tactics.  

The state also has aging buildings on the capital grounds that need to be replaced b/c the cost of renovation may not be the desired way to go.

Well, when I was growing up we took on bullies and wife beaters--not going to go into detail; but a threat to all or one was our concern.  I'll let the tribes take it from here . . .


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 31, 2020, 02:37:51 pm
Update on Omni Oklahoma City and the Oklahoma City Convention Center construction. The convention center is slated to open for business in late 2020 with  Omni Oklahoma City open slated for early 2021. It will be north of the new convention center and will offer 605 rooms with about 50,000-square-feet of meeting space.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention013020b.jpg)
Nearing completion is the Oklahoma City Convention Center.

(https://i.imgur.com/g5mMUFS.jpg)
Convention center garage under construction.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni013020c.jpg)
Omni has topped out at 17 stories with exterior finishing touches being applied.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fairfield121419a.jpg)
The new Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is now open.

Oklahoma City $635 million convention center complex:

            $288 million Oklahoma City Convention Center
          $ 25 million 1,100 space Convention Center Garage
          $241 million 605 room, Omni Oklahoma City
          $ 81 million 133 room, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

 

The Fairfield Inn & Suites will be 1 of 2 hotels on the OKC convention center complex that will make 738 rooms available (Omni 605) for convention attendees in walking distance of the new convention center south of The Peake across Oklahoma City Boulevard.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 31, 2020, 02:49:48 pm
(https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/878240048889577472/Knrv8yHH_400x400.jpg)

Above pics by OKCTalk.com. Development Thread.  Join or view the discussions:  https://www.okctalk.com/forum.php (https://www.okctalk.com/forum.php)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 31, 2020, 03:03:44 pm

Meet in OKC | What's New and What's Coming

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline010518b.jpg)

YouTube video:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4SRZ0H3Y8k (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4SRZ0H3Y8k)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on January 31, 2020, 06:49:47 pm
Break time, funny stuff...

YouTube:  Summer of 1980 https://youtu.be/RkBuT6wMhEg (https://youtu.be/RkBuT6wMhEg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on February 01, 2020, 02:41:25 pm
A Pedestrian way is proposed for the new Oklahoma City convention center.

The Oklahoma City MAPS 3 Citizen Advisory Board voted to move forward with preliminary plans for a $4 million pedestrian walkway to be constructed between the new convention center, the Omni Hotel and parking garage.

Here are some pics via OKCTalk.com:

(https://i.imgur.com/CWvJaeA.jpg)

Fake Plastic Trees.....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 02, 2020, 12:38:59 pm
Oklahoma City's Historic Farmers Public Market

(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-02-02/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F02%2F02&id=Pc0290700&ext=.jpg&ts=20200202151124)

(http://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9bc923e606c53ef47a88c54cb0488eaa.jpg)


Shift in the Market


Oklahoma City - Farmers Public Market opened on June 16, 1928, on what had been the site of Delmar Gardens Amusement Park. The market, a two-story, 40,000-square foot mix of Spanish architecture with terracotta ornamentation, was built by John J. Harden in response to farmers selling their produce on downtown streets. The first floor was used by farmers selling produce, while the second floor hosted concerts, dances, boxing matches and roller-skating.

Before the start of its slow demise in the 1970s, the market also housed a grocery, meat market, candy store, bakery, cafe and a drug store. Legends like Hank Williams Sr., Count Basie and Bob Willis played in the secondfloor auditorium.

Once the OSU-OKC market closes, Farmers Public Market will be home to more than 40 vendors.

“Come March, we will not have a vacant spot,” McAnally said.

Burch, who opened Urban Agrarian in 2012, said OSUOKC’s actions are a bonanza for the Farmers Market district.

The changes coincide with traffic lights being added to the Klein Avenue and Oklahoma City Boulevard intersection and a change of Klein from one-way to two-way traffic next month, providing the landmark its best access and visibility in decades...

The market inside the building shut down in the 1970s and was replaced with an antique mall, though farmers still operated permanent stands surrounding the main building. The farmers stands continued to operate through the 1990s, but they virtually disappeared when the OSU-OKC market opened in 1996...

...“The market was a feather in their cap at OSU for almost 30 years,” Burch said. “They were so proud of this. There will be public relations and some aspects of being downtown that might be good. But buying groceries and parking downtown, that’s not what everyone wants.”--Excerpts from the Oklahoman, Steve Lackmeyer - Business, February 2, 2020



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on February 02, 2020, 01:39:44 pm
Stitt should have approached the Tribes with a concern that the state needs more money, what can we do for you to help us reach our goal where it's a win-win situation for both.   The State of Oklahoma has $600 million in its rainy day fund; economy continues to prosper; however Stitt decided he was going to push the tribes around with this awkward style bullying tactics.  

The state also has aging buildings on the capital grounds that need to be replaced b/c the cost of renovation may not be the desired way to go.

Well, when I was growing up we took on bullies and wife beaters--not going to go into detail; but a threat to all or one was our concern.  I'll let the tribes take it from here . . .


Won't do any good or make any difference...too many sick-o-phants adore Stitt, just like they do Trump.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 02, 2020, 04:09:57 pm

Won't do any good or make any difference...too many sick-o-phants adore Stitt, just like they do Trump.



Agree 100%

Concerned to see a situation where one party dominates the U. S. or the State of Oklahoma where everything is done along party lines.  Do see a situation where Oklahoma has the potential to expand Medicaid because IMO the pros outweigh the cons.  

SQ 802: Medicaid Expansion – Information and resources:  https://okpolicy.org/sq-802-information-and-resources/ (https://okpolicy.org/sq-802-information-and-resources/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 03, 2020, 06:16:36 pm


(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/eb/23/81/eb23810c4cddd52fe178031b6213d9a6.jpg)

(https://media.istockphoto.com/photos/oklahoma-city-bricktown-canal-picture-id176126803?k=6&m=176126803&s=170667a&w=0&h=jhS6DltxKQrQtC9pKLBhpo1NLtRiNYIw5ui2Q56c5jQ=)

(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/d1/83/12/d18312c25af886a3e63e3e0103530433--bricktown-okc-oklahoma-city.jpg)

City release video of September canal accident https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ljHJAOHm5w (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ljHJAOHm5w)

The light bollards implicated in a fatal accident along Oklahoma City's Bricktown Canal will be replaced by safer, pole-mounted lights.

The $625,000 project could begin next month and be done in spring 2021. Plans are to have the city council award the contract February 18, 2020.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/1225/943976296_507c7d425f_b.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 03, 2020, 06:32:45 pm
OKC Bricktown Canal 3 year clean up

(http://kwtv.images.worldnow.com/images/12943084_G.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-6d40100fe7efcaf3e04f5afc833c4461.jpg)

(https://localtvkfor.files.wordpress.com/2017/01/bricktown-canal-clean-up.jpg?quality=85&strip=all)

YouTube KOCO-TV 5 Cleaning of Bricktown Canal underway https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJpTfnzl5RE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJpTfnzl5RE)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 03, 2020, 06:40:53 pm
Break Time, Funny Stuff

Funniest Prank Phone Call Ever: Wanda Sykes
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/23eJYI7dKrU/hqdefault.jpg?sqp=-oaymwEZCNACELwBSFXyq4qpAwsIARUAAIhCGAFwAQ==&rs=AOn4CLBVBHaU24CYqA_8yNwgAFwPX_dUkA) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23eJYI7dKrU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=23eJYI7dKrU)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 03, 2020, 07:18:33 pm
Oklahoma City to replace Skydance bridge deck buckling issues

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-ae3e11ff771770c5d3cbb2c8f5aefe24.jpg)

(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/ad/a7/e1/ada7e187bbeadc6f8aa2ae7fe9538394.jpg)
Alternating and seasonal colors reflect the impact of the bridge over OKC crosstown I-40

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-f6bdf0987a35c3bec254a0ef026d6d5c.jpg)
Skydance bridge is a landmark for Oklahoma City residents and travelers on Interstate 40, and a gathering place downtown.
[Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]


Couch said the new decking would have no impact on the bridge's structural integrity.

Skydance bridge spans the Union Pacific railroad tracks and Interstate 40, and is a landmark for freeway travelers.


(https://i.pinimg.com/736x/95/da/8f/95da8ffbf692604614f767fc6ecad990.jpg)



The new deck is expected to cost $750,000.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: buffalodan on February 04, 2020, 12:56:39 pm
Do we know if they are going to go back with the same crappy wood decking? Blows my mind that they did that in the first place.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on February 04, 2020, 02:40:18 pm
Agree 100%

Concerned to see a situation where one party dominates the U. S. or the State of Oklahoma where everything is done along party lines.  Do see a situation where Oklahoma has the potential to expand Medicaid because IMO the pros outweigh the cons.  

SQ 802: Medicaid Expansion – Information and resources:  https://okpolicy.org/sq-802-information-and-resources/ (https://okpolicy.org/sq-802-information-and-resources/)



Of course they do outweigh the cons.   That's the biggest reason we won't do it... it makes sense and is good for the people of the state. 



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 04, 2020, 10:35:58 pm
Do we know if they are going to go back with the same crappy wood decking? Blows my mind that they did that in the first place.

The wooden bridge deck will be replaced with lightweight concrete panels.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 07, 2020, 05:22:44 pm
(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2019-10-26/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2019%2F10%2F26&id=Pc0100100&ext=.jpg&ts=20191026132916)

Construction has started by Bolt on the Shrine & 2000 seat Basilica with completion by the summer of 2022  The Archdioceses  raised over $81 million of which $40 million will go for the actual construction the Spanish colonial style Basilica and some of the other half will go toward furnishings, church renovations within the Oklahoma City Archdioceses with the bulk targeting Southside OKC Roman Catholic Church restorations which has seen a phenomenal growth of 30% since 2009.

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a1/OKC_Cathedral.jpg)
Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Archdioceses of Oklahoma City

(https://pipeorgandatabase.org/photos/OK/Tulsa.HolyFamilyRC.1983AustinOrga.Contrib3.20170729.120954.jpg)
Holy Family Cathedral, Dioceses of Tulsa


(https://pipeorgandatabase.org/photos/AR/LittleRock.StAndrewRCCa.1992Nicholsand.Contrib3.20170722.175628.jpg)
Cathedral of St. Andrew, Dioceses of Little Rock

About the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City  
The original Diocese of Oklahoma was erected in 1905, became the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa in 1930, and was erected into the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in 1972. The Archdiocese is comprised of more than 120,000 Catholics in central and western Oklahoma, and covers 46 counties and 42,470 square miles.

On December 13, 1972, Pope Paul VI split the diocese into two, creating the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, which ministers to Catholics in the western part of Oklahoma, and the Diocese of Tulsa, which ministers to those in the east and the Diocese of Little Rock, AR.
 

Video of groundbreaking:  https://www.news9.com/story/41265315/catholic-leaders-break-ground-on-shrine-for-honored-priest (https://www.news9.com/story/41265315/catholic-leaders-break-ground-on-shrine-for-honored-priest)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 08, 2020, 02:37:59 pm
Bricktown Marriott Renaissance

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-cb23107c4bcf35e86598a2ad121a14cd.jpg)

                                                                                                    
                                                                                                    First full-service hotel in Bricktown
                                                                                                    10 stories
                                                                                                    182 rooms
                                                                                                    Developer, Andy Patel


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott110219a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott013020b.jpg)

Bricktown Marriott Renaissance, a full service hotel positioned between the OKC convention center complex and the Bricktown Entertainment District houses a majority of the city's restaurants & entertainment venues sits right across from the renovated Spaghetti Warehouse & Nonna’s Ristorante is primed for future development.  Oklahoma City hotel boom will see 4,500 hotel rooms in the vicinity of the convention center complex by 2021.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/coop062318.jpg)
Finishing touches are being put on the clean up of the 37 acres of the 42 acre Producers' COOP Mill site overlooking the I-40/I-35 Interchange.  The site sits in the area near the convention center complex, riverfront & Bricktown. Mazaheri Properties owns 5.9-acre at 101 SE 4th Street. The property was purchased for $8 million ($31.13 per square foot); it sits north of Producers Cooperative Mill and south of Harkins Theatres Bricktown 16.

(All pics via OKCTalk.com.)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 12, 2020, 10:33:09 am
Oklahoma City Downtown Housing Boom

(5,237 units)
[with units proposed 5,878]

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/westvillage061519a.jpg)

(https://wpcdn.us-midwest-1.vip.tn-cloud.net/www.405magazine.com/content/uploads/data-import/1ed60540/Culture-01-Development-Lift.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-09cebc0f1b787a305a4ef1a29129fbc6.jpg)

(https://images1.apartments.com/i2/nELzzIVbxVGfjGtwpMrdRKDQR4GboESbVjmlsXCMLmA/111/level-urban-apartments-oklahoma-city-ok-exterior.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 15, 2020, 11:15:58 am
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/qWhqXVGgqkYVl4zmSJzgt0Oq3UiDHwVMt7_pq8Lgu1yKGFUhh0aH_bWLVTWSxGBqXTrgDVIsh2p3VjfFNwk4DwBrkuM5Kz1Cpo_5r2BBKSC-MQM2WFcTZ6EAEOFAGg) Pic from Google images

Mediator named in gaming compact dispute

         By Randy Ellis
         Staff writer rellis@oklahoman.com

Former U.S. District Judge Layn R. Phillips has been selected to serve as the mediator in a dispute between Oklahoma's gaming tribes and Gov. Kevin Stitt over the status of the state's tribal gaming compacts...

...He served as an Oklahoma City federal court judge from 1987 to 1991 and U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma from 1984 to 1987.

Phillips' job as mediator will be to try to negotiate a settlement in a dispute that has been raging for months between Gov. Stitt and Oklahoma's gaming tribes.

...The tribes' primary motive for filing the lawsuit was to obtain a determination as to whether the compacts automatically renewed on January 1, 2020

(https://hwgc.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Winstar-World-Casino-8294-1200x750.jpg)

(https://d9lvdmmwvuqi1.cloudfront.net/uploads/production/video/thumb/2277/thumb_1280x/ar_150313_winstar_15_ar_007_zack150074_thumbnail.jpg)
1395 on main casino complex

(https://www.chickasaw.net/CMSPages/GetFile.aspx?guid=3f90ccee-f712-4645-83a2-c5599eb22893)

World's Largest Casino


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 15, 2020, 12:03:38 pm
Oklahoma City's MAPS 4 multipurpose stadium

(https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/08/promo390870374.jpg?w=900)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-ff829213551720ea2408e95f1e877711.jpg)

(https://nondoc-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ProposedSoccerStadium1.jpg)


MAPS 4 stadium would receive $37 million towards its construction (8,000 - 10,000 seats) as part of a total 16 package projects valued at $978 million.






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 18, 2020, 12:00:59 pm

Oklahoma City Skyline


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc051019b.jpg)
First National Center will house the state's first only FIVE STAR hotel.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc063018c.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst053019aa.jpg)
LED crowns will illuminate the BancFirst Tower and the new Omni Oklahoma City hotel.
(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15601&d=1569093742)
All pics via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: erfalf on February 18, 2020, 12:46:26 pm

First National Center will house the state's first only FIVE STAR hotel.

There aren't any four stars in the state either. There is only 1 in all of Texas. The Mansion on Turtle Creek is even a 4-Star. Seems a bit presumptuous to say the hotel will be a 5-Star before it's even opened.

I think Coury is a fantastic hotelier, however, they don't operate those kinds of hotels that get 4 and 5 star ratings.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on February 18, 2020, 03:53:43 pm
There aren't any four stars in the state either. There is only 1 in all of Texas. The Mansion on Turtle Creek is even a 4-Star. Seems a bit presumptuous to say the hotel will be a 5-Star before it's even opened.


I guess it depends which rating system you are looking at.  I don't know whose ratings only have 1 Texas hotel with 4 stars or no Oklahoma hotels with 4 stars.  Forbes has 11 Texas hotels with 4 stars and 1 with 5.  (But no Oklahoma hotels at either level.)

AAA uses a 5-diamond rating system and has at least 10 hotels in Oklahoma with 4 diamonds (and dozens of 4 diamond hotels in Texas plus one 5 diamond, in Houston).


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on February 19, 2020, 09:19:25 am
I guess it depends which rating system you are looking at.  I don't know whose ratings only have 1 Texas hotel with 4 stars or no Oklahoma hotels with 4 stars.  Forbes has 11 Texas hotels with 4 stars and 1 with 5.  (But no Oklahoma hotels at either level.)

AAA uses a 5-diamond rating system and has at least 10 hotels in Oklahoma with 4 diamonds (and dozens of 4 diamond hotels in Texas plus one 5 diamond, in Houston).

Forbes would have to be the standard.  But either way,  calling a hotel Five-Star before it is built is a bit "presumptuous". 

I did not know that Oklahoma did not have at least a four-star hotel in the state.  Heck, we don't even have a "recommended", and I think we are getting shafted a bit there.   I have stayed at some of the recommended-level hotels in TX and while they are nice, I wasn't just blown away by, say, the Joule in Dallas. (But it is really nice.)  I'm surprised at least one of the Mayo or Ambassador in Tulsa, or the Skirvin or Colcord in OKC didn't make the recommended level.

I guess though,  I have a personal bias.  I like old and/or funky, boutique-type hotels more than pure luxury.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on February 19, 2020, 01:11:48 pm
Forbes would have to be the standard.  But either way,  calling a hotel Five-Star before it is built is a bit "presumptuous". 

I did not know that Oklahoma did not have at least a four-star hotel in the state.  Heck, we don't even have a "recommended", and I think we are getting shafted a bit there.   I have stayed at some of the recommended-level hotels in TX and while they are nice, I wasn't just blown away by, say, the Joule in Dallas. (But it is really nice.)  I'm surprised at least one of the Mayo or Ambassador in Tulsa, or the Skirvin or Colcord in OKC didn't make the recommended level.

I guess though,  I have a personal bias.  I like old and/or funky, boutique-type hotels more than pure luxury.


Stayed at the Pfister Hotel in MKE a couple of times...that would qualify as solid 4 to me.  Nice little place.

Stayed at some place in Chicago one time - can't remember name - was supposed to be very high end luxury place that charged over $400 a night.  I didn't have to pay for it - someone else's expense report.   It was a hotel.  Nicer wood trim than most.   Still just a hotel.








Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: erfalf on February 19, 2020, 09:06:08 pm
I did not know that Oklahoma did not have at least a four-star hotel in the state.  Heck, we don't even have a "recommended", and I think we are getting shafted a bit there.   I have stayed at some of the recommended-level hotels in TX and while they are nice, I wasn't just blown away by, say, the Joule in Dallas. (But it is really nice.)  I'm surprised at least one of the Mayo or Ambassador in Tulsa, or the Skirvin or Colcord in OKC didn't make the recommended level.

I guess though,  I have a personal bias.  I like old and/or funky, boutique-type hotels more than pure luxury.

I actually wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Pawhuska got one on the list before Tulsa or OKC.

https://www.frontierhotelpawhuska.com/

And yes, Forbes seems to be the standard (at least for star ratings).


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2020, 07:38:31 pm
Five best 4-Star Hotels in Oklahoma City:
TripAdviosr:  https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g51560-zfc4-Oklahoma_City_Oklahoma-Hotels.html (https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g51560-zfc4-Oklahoma_City_Oklahoma-Hotels.html)
                   
                   (https://content.r9cdn.net/rimg/himg/da/85/91/ice-53412-photo.aspx_did=2692_brochureid=53412_publicid=6165910_instanceid=3-image.jpg?width=1004&crop=true&caller=HotelDetailsPhoto)
               Colcord Hotel
 
                   (https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-o/0e/4c/6d/be/21c-museum-hotel-oklahoma.jpg)
               21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City

                   (https://www.eturbonews.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/The-Skirvin-Hilton-hotel.jpg)
               The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City

                   (https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-w/1a/17/0b/ca/exterior.jpg)
               Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel

               Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection


               Renaissance Waterford Oklahoma City Hotel  4-star hotel, 6300 Waterford Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73118•(405) 848-4782
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/okcbw-renaissance-waterford-oklahoma-city-hotel/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2 (https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/okcbw-renaissance-waterford-oklahoma-city-hotel/?scid=bb1a189a-fec3-4d19-a255-54ba596febe2)
 
Best 4 Star Hotels in Tulsa: Some of the State's most beautiful 4 star hotels. https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk01XnFB_A3Mh7qPqbsJ74CXcbsQyvw%3A1582249367886&source=hp&ei=lzVPXuySM4SYsQWSq5XABQ&q=best+4+star+hotels+in+tulsa+oklahoma&oq=Best+4+star+hotels+in+Tulsa&gs_l=psy-ab.1.1.33i22i29i30l2.1827.14142..17214...1.0..0.1163.5882.7j12j5j1j1j1j0j1....2..0....1..gws-wiz.......35i39j0i67j0i395j0i131i395j0i20i263i395j0i67i395j0j0i20i263j0i22i30.iRno5HPd-uI (https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ALeKk01XnFB_A3Mh7qPqbsJ74CXcbsQyvw%3A1582249367886&source=hp&ei=lzVPXuySM4SYsQWSq5XABQ&q=best+4+star+hotels+in+tulsa+oklahoma&oq=Best+4+star+hotels+in+Tulsa&gs_l=psy-ab.1.1.33i22i29i30l2.1827.14142..17214...1.0..0.1163.5882.7j12j5j1j1j1j0j1....2..0....1..gws-wiz.......35i39j0i67j0i395j0i131i395j0i20i263i395j0i67i395j0j0i20i263j0i22i30.iRno5HPd-uI)








Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2020, 08:01:00 pm
Coming soon:  $287 million renovation
First National Center.


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r620-ed6b54627c949837a8923ed3711868d7.jpg)

First National Center 2021: TIF District  
News 9 video: https://www.news9.com/story/40232869/developer-gives-first-look-at-hotel-rooms-apartments-at-first-national-in-downtown-okc (https://www.news9.com/story/40232869/developer-gives-first-look-at-hotel-rooms-apartments-at-first-national-in-downtown-okc)

(Marriott Autograph 5 star hotel)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 20, 2020, 08:27:11 pm
OKLAHOMA CITY CONVENTION &

VISITORS BUREAU UNVIELS

NEW BRANDING IDENTITY FOR OKLAHOMA CITY


(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/OKC_CVB_Brand_Guide_The_Modern_Frontier_3da4f31a-27e3-4c02-ba6b-39bab54bb2b5-1.jpg)

Velocity:  https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/economy/oklahoma-city-convention-visitors-bureau-unveils-new-branding-identity-for-oklahoma-city (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/economy/oklahoma-city-convention-visitors-bureau-unveils-new-branding-identity-for-oklahoma-city)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on February 21, 2020, 10:54:50 am
Five best 4-Star Hotels in Oklahoma City:
Yeah, no.   From a personal perspective, I do check the ratings on Expedia, TripAdvisor, etc.  So in relative terms these are obviously good hotels and rated well by people who stay there.  But when claiming something like "five star hotel", it has to be based on a common metric, and the industry standard is, for now, Forbes. 

Kind of like claiming a restaurant is three-star, but not using Michelin.   Doesn't mean the place isn't good, but we need to know what metric they are using.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 12:07:16 pm
Yeah, no.   From a personal perspective, I do check the ratings on Expedia, TripAdvisor, etc.  So in relative terms these are obviously good hotels and rated well by people who stay there.  But when claiming something like "five star hotel", it has to be based on a common metric, and the industry standard is, for now, Forbes.  

Kind of like claiming a restaurant is three-star, but not using Michelin.   Doesn't mean the place isn't good, but we need to know what metric they are using.


Marriott Autograph 5 star hotel...

Think about the amount of money being invested into this project which has balooned in the $300 million range since they released that video--plus $45 million in TIF fund from OKC.  You think they are going to play on words like 5 star hotel if they are not. Your brand means more than stealing a star--there are standards you have to meet to achieve the 5 star brand with papers to back that up.  Theses are brands and flags that's backed by Marriott--you don't just claim to be a *****5 star***** hotel when you aren't; you'd have so many lawsuits filed by Marriott you wouldn't be able to sleep--whether you open or not.   Think about it.  

So true, they aren't open; however scheduled to open in 2021. There are tons of planning & marketing ahead for a hotel on this scale. The magnitude to which you don't risk your investment over being a 5 star vs. a 4 star.

Personally, this hotel will be out-of-my-league.  My travels allows me to patronize a Four Points or Holiday Inn Express--I'm not losing any sleep over a $55 bed vs a $290 bed; no shame in my game--wouldn't get any sleep thinking I shelled out a ton of money to impress someone about things I can't afford unless I were a con artist, my funds will only stretch so far--beat me, beat me and call me CHEAP.  ;D

There are better things to spend my money on.   Apparently there's a market for a Marriott Autograph 5-star hotel in Oklahoma.  

As for Forbes, they're a reliable & reputable souce 95% of the time--it's that 5% where something slips through the cracks.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on February 21, 2020, 12:14:13 pm

Marriott Autograph 5 star hotel...

Think about the amount of money being invested into this project which has balooned in the $300 million range since they released that video--plus $45 million in TIF fund from OKC.  You think they are going to play on words like 5 star hotel if they are not. Your brand means more than stealing a star--there are standards you have to meet to achieve the 5 star brand with papers to back that up.  Theses are brands and flags that's backed by Marriott--you don't just claim to be a *****5 star***** hotel when you aren't; you'd have so many lawsuits filed by Marriott you wouldn't be able to sleep--whether you open or not.   Think about it.  

Sued for what exactly?

And if developers were sued for hyperbolic statements, well, there'd be no developers and Trump would be homeless living in a van down by the river.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: erfalf on February 21, 2020, 12:14:34 pm
This will not make the Forbes list....probably ever. I would bet my life it would never get a four star rating. The company's other hotels have a better shot at that.

And look, the Renaissance Oklahoma City Convention Center Hotel is a fine hotel. A four star hotel it is not. It's no different than a Embassy Suites or something like that. There are zillions of those establishments. They are all fine places. But they are not incredibly unique in their quality.

Haven't personally stayed at the other ones. I'm sure they are also very nice. And will probably get 4 and 5 stars on Trip Advisor. But claiming this is going to be a five star is ludicrous. It's playing on people's ignorance. Hoping they don't understand what it truly takes to be ranked as one of the finest hotels in the world.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: erfalf on February 21, 2020, 12:19:44 pm
Also for the record, Marriott Autograph collection isn't exactly in the business of providing world class hotels either. Good hotels, yes. Great hotels, sure. World class...not so much.

Right now Marriott has 3 4-Stars on the list. All are in China. They have a slew of recommended properties, but not one is an Autograph collection. JW Marriott is their flagship "brand".


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 12:27:24 pm
My own personal opinion on these stars; I'll be seeing stars if I ever shelled out that much money to stay in one...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 01:01:07 pm
Updated pics on Omni Oklahoma City & Oklahoma City Convention Center via OKCTalk.com

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventioncenter021920a.jpg)


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventioncenter021920b.jpg)

The Oklahoma City convention center is scheduled to open in late 2020 and the Omni in early 2021 at which time the 1,100 space convention center garage will open.  Oklahoma City convention center complex has around $635 million invested in this complex:

          $288 million Oklahoma City Convention Center
          $ 25 million 1,100 space Convention Center Garage
          $241 million 605 room, Omni Oklahoma City
          $ 81 million 133 room, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

My personal opinion on this project--OKC should have gone with a study that suggested a 735 room hotel to anchor this project:

"Texas consultant Jeremy Stone's study, compiled though visits with local hoteliers and analysis of local hospitality data, reports five full-service, “competitive” hotels enjoyed average room occupancy of 75.6 percent, with an average daily room rate of $129 in 2012..."

"...They also report that construction of the hotel will create 2,455 local jobs and generate $300 million in economic activity. The hotel operation, meanwhile, is forecast to create and sustain 674 local jobs with an increase to local economic output by $669 million..."
 
Study suggests Oklahoma City can support $200 million, 735-room conference hotel:  https://oklahoman.com/article/3914440/study-suggests-oklahoma-city-can-support-200-million-735-room-conference-hotel (https://oklahoman.com/article/3914440/study-suggests-oklahoma-city-can-support-200-million-735-room-conference-hotel) 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on February 21, 2020, 01:22:42 pm
Also for the record, Marriott Autograph collection isn't exactly in the business of providing world class hotels either. Good hotels, yes. Great hotels, sure. World class...not so much.

Right now Marriott has 3 4-Stars on the list. All are in China. They have a slew of recommended properties, but not one is an Autograph collection. JW Marriott is their flagship "brand".

FWIW, the Marriott family includes Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Edition and Luxury Collection flags.  There are about 44 of them in the US with 4 or 5 stars.

Also, contrary to your claim, there are at least 4 Autograph Collection hotels in the US on the "Recommended" list plus another 4 international locations.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 01:23:42 pm

                                                     Devon Tower glass replacement project update

                                    (https://i.imgur.com/IOOR2XX.jpg)

                                            Worker on Wednesday, February 19 install new glass panels to replace those damaged in the window washing incident.--pic via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 01:26:14 pm
FWIW, the Marriott family includes Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Edition and Luxury Collection flags.  There are about 44 of them in the US with 4 or 5 stars.

Also, contrary to your claim, there are at least 4 Autograph Collection hotels in the US on the "Recommended" list.

Excellent point...

Of which I listed one...

My only claim was the limited knowledge research on this project--it's not padding my pocket book nor will I stay in a 5 star hotel or loose any sleep over this.  Not my cup of tea.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: erfalf on February 21, 2020, 01:51:49 pm
FWIW, the Marriott family includes Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Edition and Luxury Collection flags.  There are about 44 of them in the US with 4 or 5 stars.

Also, contrary to your claim, there are at least 4 Autograph Collection hotels in the US on the "Recommended" list plus another 4 international locations.

I must have overlooked them, my apologies. I had a list open of all the Autograph hotels (of which there are many) and couldn't find any in NYC, Chicago or DC that were on the list, so just assumed it wasn't going to happen.

And I did forget about those other brands. Which until more-recent purchases were rather local hotels. These major hotel chains have so many brands and have become so diversified it is difficult to keep up. That being said, Autograph is not a top tier brand for them, really not even close to a top tier brand.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 21, 2020, 01:55:38 pm

(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6993505/maps_4_okc.jpg?cb=1581458721)

Oklahoma City Council established the MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board despite some concern about the name:  

Oklahoma Gazette: https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/maps-board/Content?oid=6993499 (https://www.okgazette.com/oklahoma/maps-board/Content?oid=6993499)

                                          (https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/6993506/jobeth_hamon.jpg?cb=1581458746)
                                          Councilwoman JoBeth Hamon wanted to change the word “citizens” to “residents” in an attempt to be more inclusive.


          Oklahoma is very fortunate to have initiatives like OKC MAPS & Tulsa Vision 2025 where capital improvement projects were crafted.  It will be of interest
          to see the fruits of these projects as they are developed and how they will affect the future of Oklahoma's two largest cities.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on February 24, 2020, 12:15:43 pm

Quote from: Oil Capital on February 21, 2020, 01:22:42 pm
FWIW, the Marriott family includes Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, Edition and Luxury Collection flags.  There are about 44 of them in the US with 4 or 5 stars.

Also, contrary to your claim, there are at least 4 Autograph Collection hotels in the US on the "Recommended" list plus another 4 international locations.

---------
I must have overlooked them, my apologies. I had a list open of all the Autograph hotels (of which there are many) and couldn't find any in NYC, Chicago or DC that were on the list, so just assumed it wasn't going to happen.

And I did forget about those other brands. Which until more-recent purchases were rather local hotels. These major hotel chains have so many brands and have become so diversified it is difficult to keep up. That being said, Autograph is not a top tier brand for them, really not even close to a top tier brand.

And with the combing of the Starwood Group with Marriott, there are now all the luxury W hotels and related on that side as well.  The Marriott group is huge.
I'm a big fan of the Autograph Collection.   It's kind of the grab-bag for all the cool individual boutique hotels that Marriott brings into their group.  And depending on the hotel (and how creative you get with discounts), they can be a good value for a weekend night somewhere.   

I'm still appalled that OK doesn't have even one "Recommended" level hotel in the state.  If this new hotel can fix that, awesome.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 25, 2020, 11:02:40 am
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center construction update.

(https://i.imgur.com/FV4cKm3.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/contemporary022220b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/contemporary022220c.jpg)
Above pics via OKCTalk.com





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: BKDotCom on February 25, 2020, 11:40:00 am
That sign is really hard to read on that facade.

I read it as "Oklahoma Temporary Arts Center'


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 25, 2020, 12:16:12 pm
Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195023777-GV4QL9JEPRVHJ5DQJVD5/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kOyTfLZiV2PNjKdnQQRsBpRZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE-7XRK3dMEBRBhUpzojtLi4ukUfwdiFkPMXrokEhqAAZAnnueEmL1xJbPDPUCndo7ocswNI1K7i2iGLUs/537EV-west+edited.jpg?format=500w) (https://www.markstickets.com/images/venue/cox-convention-center-tickets.jpg)

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195220481-IV6CU7VVU78QU67GJ6LL/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kICVWAUOPrW0z_iJL0rtRfdZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE-7XRK3dMEBRBhUpyHlERw3sm-qJxxfNxqgoDLlGw2dvl5KdsS9ARxE13qAn3Xu8yvwYatYTIUaOjw4I0/537IE-1fl4-edited.jpg?format=1000w)

What will become of the Cox Convention Center once the new Convention Center & 605 room Omni Oklahoma City Hotel opens...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventioncenter021920b.jpg)

The agreement the city has with Omni says the city will no longer use the Cox Convention Center as the main convention center one year after the Omni opens.  The arena inside the cox is used by the G-League Oklahoma City Blue development team for the Thunder, Bart & Nadia Experience which involves gymnastics and multiple events use the Cox Center, these events probably won't be affected.  SMG will be the management group for the new Oklahoma City Convention Center, Cox Convention Center,  Civic Center Music Hall and the Bennett Events Center & the yet to be constructed State Fair Coliseum apart of $978 million MAPS 4 initiatives passed in December 2019.

Possibilities are that we won't know until years after the new convention center opens.  The City of Oklahoma City is currently evaluating its use as possibly an overflow facility should the new convention center need additional space--which puts OKC in a situation where some tier II conventions may require more space.  The new convention center was built with potential expansion in mind.  There's also room for the Omni to expand south of the convention center complex.  OKC will have 3,300 quality hotel room within walking distance of the new convention center.

The new convention center complex will have $635 million of new construction most of which were funded by the MAPS 3 Initiative passed in 2009.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 25, 2020, 12:22:32 pm
That sign is really hard to read on that facade.

I read it as "Oklahoma Temporary Arts Center'

(https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2016/04/16/23/07/cat-1333926__480.jpg)
You guys just running me up a tree...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 26, 2020, 12:52:58 pm
                         Costco plans second Oklahoma City metro store in Moore.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/costco021820d.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/costco021820e.jpg)

Success of the new OKC Costco store on Western Avenue & Memorial Road, plans are in the works for a Moore store off Telephone Road & I-35 Service Road providing easy access from Norman & South Oklahoma City. Construction should start in the fall of 2020 with a March-April 2021 opening.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on February 26, 2020, 08:56:30 pm
                         Costco plans second Oklahoma City metro store in Moore.


Success of the new OKC Costco store on Western Avenue & Memorial Road, plans are in the works for a Moore store off Telephone Road & I-35 Service Road providing easy access from Norman & South Oklahoma City. Construction should start in the fall of 2020 with a March-April 2021 opening.




Ha!   There is no easy access from Norman & S Okc now - the roads are always busy/full!   


Where would that be?   Telephone and I-35 are parallel all the way up to past N 5th...that is gonna be an exciting traffic situation, too, if they put it up there!


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 28, 2020, 02:30:59 pm

Ha!   There is no easy access from Norman & S Okc now - the roads are always busy/full!   


Where would that be?   Telephone and I-35 are parallel all the way up to past N 5th...that is gonna be an exciting traffic situation, too, if they put it up there!


Interesting perspective you have on I-35 corridor from South Oklahoma City to Moore (between) to Norman.  True, there is no easy access between the three cities.  A Costco location here much like the Moore WinCo Grocery in a service area that will make it accessible from I-35 between South Oklahoma City & Norman.   


 I-35 Corridor Construction and Delays: ODOT Oklahoma Department of Transportation https://www.ok.gov/odot/I-35_Corridor_Projects.html (https://www.ok.gov/odot/I-35_Corridor_Projects.html)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on February 29, 2020, 08:40:26 pm
This So-Called Flyover City Is Having a Serious Cultural
and Culinary Renaissance


                By Becki Iverson
                Published On 02/26/2020



(https://assets3.thrillist.com/v1/image/2862675/size/gn-gift_guide_variable_c_2x.jpg)

               Thrillist:  https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-in-oklahoma-city (https://www.thrillist.com/travel/nation/things-to-do-in-oklahoma-city)

(https://assets3.thrillist.com/v1/image/2862676/size/tl-horizontal_main_2x.jpg)
Oklahoma City's neighborhoods embrace the past while
adapting for the present


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 05, 2020, 03:59:15 pm


                                                ODOT To Replace Bridges Along I-40 In SE Oklahoma City


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-750d1f77b0c7a78bc8eabaef2b40b091.jpg)
I-40 W/E, I-35 N/S 'Dallas' junction is among the most heavily traveled interchanges in the state. 

(https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/edmondsun.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/b8/db8d7434-c394-11e9-9fce-2b93cbdedb5f/5d5c6bdec057c.image.jpg?resize=1200%2C674)

Resurfacing I-40 between I-35 and Sooner Road is the first step before replacing each bridge. Crews will narrow I-40 to two lanes in each direction later this month. The project is expected to take up to 45 days.

The resurfacing will cost $1.4 million. If the Oklahoma Transportation Commission approves a separate bridge project in April, the state will pay $82 million. This project is expected to start after approval in early summer and would take 2 ½ years to complete. ODOT said this is a busy area with over 70,000 drivers using the roadway.

News 9 video:  https://www.news9.com/story/41854510/odot-to-replace-bridges-along-i40-in-se-oklahoma-city (https://www.news9.com/story/41854510/odot-to-replace-bridges-along-i40-in-se-oklahoma-city)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 05, 2020, 04:49:54 pm
Proposed $100 million, new Oklahoma City State Fair Coliseum
(Funded by MAPS 4 sales tax.)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/statefairarena030320b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/statefairarena030320a.jpg)

(https://statefairparkokc.com/uploads/homepage/image15555133941149535658.jpg)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D_NYd5NWkAAin9X.jpg)

The coliseum will have flexible seating where 1,500 won't feel out-of-place in a 4,700 fixed seat venue & temporary expandable seating: 1,000 lower/1,600 upper level retractable seats for basketball and ice hockey.  

As mentioned, the horse show events are committed to the new arena's parking & accommodations.  It will be a boom to the Oklahoma City Meridian hotel corridor where there are 2,500 hotel rooms available with more planned apart of future construction.

A nationally recognized expert in large public venue consulting calculated that a new State Fair Park Coliseum would generate more than $230 million a year in direct spending and more than $400 million a year in total

Bennett Event Center will have modest accommodations for the exhibits OKC will attract.

The new coliseum will be home to high school basketball playoffs; possibly a home for the Oklahoma City Blue and have the flexibility to be used for amateur & AA ice hockey (7,300 seats) since the city has built its own dasher boards; also ice plants were installed in State Fair Arena, The Peake, Cox Convention Center (aka Myriad).

The flexible coliseum won't have any trouble being booked for events once the doors open.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 10, 2020, 02:02:23 pm

Oklahoma City scores with Top 10 ranking among ‘Best Cities for Basketball Fans’


                    (https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/Thunder-56.jpg)


    WalletHub ranked Oklahoma City #7 out of 291 of the most populated cities nationwide for the best cities for basketball fans.

    In terms of the NBA, Oklahoma City was ranked #5 for best cities for basketball fans.

    WalletHub used a total of 21 metrics to help determine the best cities for basketball fans. Each metric was graded on a 100-point scale, with 100 representing the most favorable   
    conditions for basketball fandom.

    These metrics consisted of looking at top-performing teams, revenues and traditions, fan attendance and engagement, and much more.

Link: https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/economy/oklahoma-city-scores-with-top-10-ranking-among-best-cities-for-basketball-fans/?back=super_blog (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/economy/oklahoma-city-scores-with-top-10-ranking-among-best-cities-for-basketball-fans/?back=super_blog)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 10, 2020, 07:40:55 pm
MEMORIES

2008-09 NBA Supersonics relocated to Oklahoma City/Saving Grace starring Holly Hunter.

(https://i.tnt.tv/v5cache/TNT/images/originals/savinggrace/features/wallpapers/grace800.jpg)
HOLLY HUNTER
(https://tvguide1.cbsistatic.com/i/2009/03/02/e8f566fc-7b7c-4fa3-b775-f8c5cacdc518/6e84e3cab09c57a7f5875a124290144f/090302tvh_savinggrace1.jpg) (https://tvguide1.cbsistatic.com/mediabin/galleries/shows/s_z/sa_sc/saving_grace/season3/saving-grace123.jpg) (https://www.hollywoodchicago.com/sites/default/files/images/savinggrace2.jpg)
Theme song:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vxu21fYnKMw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vxu21fYnKMw)

Why did saving grace get Cancelled?

On August 13, 2009, the show's producer, Fox Television Studios, canceled the series, despite its high ratings, due to disappointing overseas and DVD sales. TNT had originally ordered a split 15-episode third season, with nine episodes to be aired in the summer and six to be aired in the winter of 2009.







Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 10, 2020, 08:31:22 pm
MEMORIES

Oklahoma City's Color Me Badd - American Music Awards 1992

(https://jukebugs.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/color-me-badd.jpg)

(https://kwtv.images.worldnow.com/images/16454060_BG1.jpg?auto=webp&disable=upscale&height=560&fit=bounds)

Attended OKC Northwest Classen High School home of Vince Gill & Elizabeth Warren

I Wanna Sex You UP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzvulairN1I (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzvulairN1I)

Arsenio Hall Show - Color Me Badd - All For Love (1992 Live:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qSjkag1lcQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qSjkag1lcQ)

Color Me Badd - I Adore Mi Amor (Video):  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92NdfSeOLA0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=92NdfSeOLA0)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 13, 2020, 03:21:10 pm
18,203 spectators were asked to vacate Oklahoma City's Chesapeake Energy Arena right before Wednesday's tip between the Utah Jazz & the Thunder.


                    (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-03-13/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F03%2F13&id=Pc0150400&ext=.jpg&ts=20200313093408)
The Thunder-Jazz game was postponed Wednesday night, leading to an NBA-wide suspension of play that spread across the sports landscape. [BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN]

Coronavirus outbreak leads to mass cancellation of sporting events Jazz players Gobert, Mitchell test positive for COVID-19 while in OKC No WCWS after NCAA cancels championships; MLB, NHL, NBA on hold


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 13, 2020, 04:12:49 pm

As the 2019-20 NBA Season closed, Thunder's last game, a 105-104 win at Boston Celtics' T. D. Gardens.


                           (https://bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/unionleader.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/b/d6/bd640764-8be9-5100-bf2c-837e6f11d691/5e659949e85e3.image.jpg?crop=956%2C808%2C171%2C55&resize=956%2C808&order=crop%2Cresize)

House of Highlights:  https://youtu.be/atAwup05tBU (https://youtu.be/atAwup05tBU)

                              (https://www.nba.com/kings/sites/kings/files/legacy/photos/463862497.jpg)

                Thunder's last home game, a 112-108 victory over the Sacramento Kings:  

House of Highlights:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blhAHg-3l-A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blhAHg-3l-A)

                                (https://aviewfrommyseat.com/medium/anonymous-20160412094721.jpg) (https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/nba/images/5/50/Chesapeake_Energy_Arena_logo.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/240?cb=20171214153933)

Oklahoma City Thunder 14th (18,203) in NBA attendance among 30 Teams:  http://www.espn.com/nba/attendance (http://www.espn.com/nba/attendance)
                               Estimated 2,500 Thunder season ticket holders are from the Tulsa area.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 13, 2020, 08:57:56 pm
    

(https://kwtv.images.worldnow.com/images/18721341_SA.jpg)


Convention center scheduled to open Fall, September-November

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventioncenter021920b.jpg)

The Omni hotel under construction adjacent to the convention center will encompass 576 guestrooms and 29 suites (605 rooms), along with a spa, a fitness center, a pool deck with bar and grill, as well as multiple dining options.

The current MAPS 3 was funded by a one-cent sales tax that began in April 2010 and ended in December 2017. The new convention center is only one of eight projects funded under this $805 million capital improvement program.

City-wide Oklahoma City had 17,166 hotel guestrooms as of March, of which 2,794 were downtown, according to Visit OKC.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 14, 2020, 04:15:29 pm
    
  Coronavirus in Oklahoma: OKC Memorial Marathon postponed

                                  (https://okcmarathon.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/061918start.jpg)

           A day after the Boston and London marathons pushed back their races amid the coronavirus pandemic, Oklahoma City has done the same. Saturday, race officials announced the
           race would be held October 4.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 14, 2020, 06:05:39 pm
Construction update - OU Health Patient Tower

(https://i.imgur.com/5TtIdPC.jpg)



The new bed tower will be completed in 2020. Here are some fast facts:

    450,000-square feet of additional space

    152-feet tall

    Eight floors and room to grow

    144 added beds

    32 new operating rooms

    Intensive care unit

    Medical/surgical floor

    Stepdown unit

    Large patient rooms with extra space for the family

Watch Us Grow

https://www.oumedicine.com/oumedicine/ou-medical-center/watch-us-grow (https://www.oumedicine.com/oumedicine/ou-medical-center/watch-us-grow)


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-eb66ed1d7e4434083fc8fc3bb5e14b98.jpg)
Home to our state's only Level 1 Trauma Center.
https://www.ok.gov/health/Protective_Health/Emergency_Systems/Trauma_Division/Trauma_Care_Assistance_Revolving_Fund/index.html (https://www.ok.gov/health/Protective_Health/Emergency_Systems/Trauma_Division/Trauma_Care_Assistance_Revolving_Fund/index.html)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 14, 2020, 08:52:44 pm
Fellow Tulsans:

The Northeast area of the state (Tulsa metro) should have a Level 1 Trauma Center at St. Francis Hospital.   IIRC St. Francis was a Level 1 Trauma Center back in 2003:

Quote
St. Francis and OU Medical Center in Oklahoma City are the only trauma centers in the state to be at level one. St. John, which was working toward its ACS certification, was given a temporary level two status.

State reimbursement for unpaid health care is distributed to the trauma centers based on their levels, with level one facilities getting the most.

St. Francis officials recently looked into renewing their certification with the ACS and found that the criteria to achieve their earlier status had been raised.

Thomas said the main stumbling block was the increase in trauma-based research, which St. Francis doesn't have and can't afford.--Published: Sun, May 11, 2003 12:00 AM Oklahoman.

IMO, the state should set aside funding for a second Level 1 Trauma Center in the Tulsa area.  The area represents a big portion (quarter, 991,561) of the state's population.

Link:  https://oklahoman.com/article/1928673/two-tulsa-hospitals-facing-trauma-center-downgrades (https://oklahoman.com/article/1928673/two-tulsa-hospitals-facing-trauma-center-downgrades)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 16, 2020, 12:47:37 pm

Be Not Afraid...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWpG7qHtB8g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWpG7qHtB8g)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 16, 2020, 06:16:36 pm
Riding the Oklahoma City streetcar part 2/3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx9WeGcSE5g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wx9WeGcSE5g)

(https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/04/Streetcar-at-Stop_0280mh-2.jpg)

(https://storage.googleapis.com/afs-prod/media/media:e652bf4e92504d5aa756c3c4b8007304/800.jpeg)

(https://journalrecord.com/files/2018/11/bb-council-regional-transit-auth-emmy-1.jpg)

(https://www.kgou.org/sites/kgou/files/styles/medium/public/201812/Steetcar.jpg)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2020, 11:51:39 am

Last crane standing...


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni031520a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni031520b.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk.com.  View & join the discussion https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=115 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=35905&page=115)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2020, 12:24:36 pm
Oklahoma City's Bricktown Canal waits the spring.

                             
(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-03-17/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F03%2F17&id=Pc0011000&ext=.jpg&ts=20200317091430)

The three year interval cleaning of the canal is complete.  Spring will provide a backdrop for canal activities.
Pic courtesy of the Oklahoman, March 17, 2020

(https://i.pinimg.com/600x315/d1/83/12/d18312c25af886a3e63e3e0103530433.jpg) (https://wilmingtonbiz.s3.amazonaws.com/bricktown-okc-after_1251424938.jpg) (https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/styles/large/public/2015-07/bricktown-after_0.jpg) 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on March 17, 2020, 12:34:36 pm
The three year interval cleaning of the canal is complete.  Spring will provide a backdrop for canal activities.

No, I'm thinking it won't. There's not going to be much in the way of "activities" anywhere this spring.

And please, for the love of god, stop with the huge fonts and massive pics or you are going to have to turn over your HTML for Dummies book.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2020, 12:40:04 pm
(https://docs.bryantx.gov/projects/census/2020CensusLogo.png)

Tulsa and the U. S. Census


Many of you will receive the census by mail; you may also complete & expedite the census using the form info received by submitting online:

https://my2020census.gov/ (https://my2020census.gov/)

No community can afford to be under counted.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2020, 12:46:22 pm
Get the census information completed as soon as you receive it; takes less than 5 minutes in most cases...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 17, 2020, 04:02:25 pm
Drug used to originally fight malaria showing promise in treating coronavirus, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation says: 

https://kfor.com/health/coronavirus/drug-used-to-originally-fight-malaria-showing-promise-in-treating-coronavirus-oklahoma-medical-research-foundation-says/ (https://kfor.com/health/coronavirus/drug-used-to-originally-fight-malaria-showing-promise-in-treating-coronavirus-oklahoma-medical-research-foundation-says/)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on March 22, 2020, 10:33:20 am

Selected Oklahoma City Project updates...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/okcps031920a.jpg)
Oklahoma City Public Schools I-89 new central office Administration Building

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/lincolnplaza031920a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/lincolnplaza031920c.jpg)

Lincoln Plaza renovation project...  All pics courtesy OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 01, 2020, 09:07:41 pm
Here I am Lord

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71FcsAWsXZL._SS500_.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcxOkht8w7c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcxOkht8w7c)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on April 01, 2020, 09:39:47 pm
Here I am Lord

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71FcsAWsXZL._SS500_.jpg)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcxOkht8w7c (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EcxOkht8w7c)

Thousands of years of praying away illness and it never working.

Draw your own conclusions.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 01, 2020, 10:05:53 pm
Thousands of years of praying away illness and it never working.

Draw your own conclusions.

You won't shake my faith... ...and I will hold you in my heart; for you I'll also pray.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 01, 2020, 11:13:22 pm

South Oklahoma City's 2,000 seat Basilica under construction.


(https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/normantranscript.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/c/3c/c3c6c442-63a8-5e0c-9d3d-47384fc3e6cf/5db527ed79da8.image.jpg)

(https://archokc.org/pictures/2019/3/Camera4.jpg)
Blessed Father Stanley Rother Shrine

(https://archokc.org/photoalbums/bl-stanley-rother-shrine/Altar%20and%20Reredos.jpg)

(https://archokc.org/photoalbums/bl-stanley-rother-shrine/Sanctuary2.jpg)

When construction is completed, the Oklahoma City Basilica will be largest Catholic church in Oklahoma, the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, with 2,000 seats and a large zocolo, or plaza, to accommodate an even bigger crowd outdoors.

          Oklahoma City is going to prove 'they can build things like they used to'


     By Michael Overall Tulsa World Apr 1, 2019   https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state-and-regional/michael-overall-oklahoma-city-is-going-to-prove-they-can/article_6652aca1-15b0-57e8-bc8b-29b212329f7d.html (https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state-and-regional/michael-overall-oklahoma-city-is-going-to-prove-they-can/article_6652aca1-15b0-57e8-bc8b-29b212329f7d.html)






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on April 02, 2020, 10:33:55 am
Thousands of years of praying away illness and it never working.

Draw your own conclusions.


He who made kittens also put snakes in the grass...
-- Take a guess reference.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 04, 2020, 09:26:52 am
Work continues on the $288 million Oklahoma City convention center, $236 million Omni Hotel, $132 million Scissortail Park, $25 million Convention Center Garage and the sleek new $135 million 5.8 miles track the streetcars hope to enhance OKC's position to bring more conventions and gatherings to the city.


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention033120a.jpg)
An expanded view of the Oklahoma City convention center complex and Scissortail Park awaits for brighter days ahead; she'll have her day to shine.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking032820a.jpg)

Construction continues on the OKC Convention Center Garage as it races to provide accommodations for 1,100 enclosed parking spaces. The recently opened Fairfield Inn & Suites can be seen in the background.

(https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/04/Streetcar-at-Stop_0280mh-2.jpg) (https://www.trolleyville.com/tv/times/nov2018/images/G23-OKC201805.gif)

The coronavirus has had its' affect on the state and community projects in Oklahoma City & Tulsa as a whole; however we will get thru this--there's some light at the end of this tunnel.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 04, 2020, 11:10:57 am

Oklahoma City Skyline Pics

(https://images.fineartamerica.com/images/artworkimages/mediumlarge/1/downtown-oklahoma-city-skyline-denis-tangney-jr.jpg)

(https://ak2.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/1016409352/thumb/3.jpg)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/8154/7246739044_2bc839ee59_b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/myriad050618.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 04, 2020, 11:55:33 am
Oklahoma City Construction Junction

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/ouhsc031520a.jpg)
Oklahoma Health Science Center expansion complex, 8 stories, 144 beds, 32 operating rooms to state's only Level one trauma center.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/fnc032820b.jpg)
First National Center Rebuild/Renovation

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott032820d.jpg)
Bricktown Marriott Renaissance Hotel, full service 10 story hotel in Bricktown

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland032820a.jpg)
Heartland Payment Headquarter in downtown Oklahoma City.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 04, 2020, 01:01:15 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction continued

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm012520b.jpg)
Construction resumes toward completion of the OKC Smithsonian First Americans Museum

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/capitol092218a.jpg)
Oklahoma State Capitol Building's $120 million on exterior & interior infrastructure renovation on the capital grounds complex.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aloft100618.jpg)
Aloft North, Memorial Road between May & Pennsylvania, 4-story building with 120 rooms provides OKC with a 2nd Aloft Hotel.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/lakeview100319a.jpg)
Lakeview Tower 15 story renovation in north Oklahoma City at North May at 59th Street.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 04, 2020, 05:49:48 pm
Be prepared, there will not be time get a hair cut, or your nail trimmed & polished...


When we all get to Heaven
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6pkmWoeuTs&fbclid=IwAR20UaYoMyZ5I10VwaKGGS4zHhMJ8KTShwlJFxRRejjEIgMLGxcEHDSYvK4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S6pkmWoeuTs&fbclid=IwAR20UaYoMyZ5I10VwaKGGS4zHhMJ8KTShwlJFxRRejjEIgMLGxcEHDSYvK4)

(https://image.slidesharecdn.com/whenweallgettoheaven53-130828194616-phpapp01/95/when-we-all-get-to-heaven-3-638.jpg?cb=1377719274)

...The Coronavirus and our Time is upon us; it will not discriminate, it won't ask for a ransom and there will be no perfect calls--as this revolution is currently being televised.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on April 06, 2020, 04:38:56 pm
Be prepared, there will not be time get a hair cut, or your nail trimmed & polished...





This is just a tiny little warmup exercise for when the big one comes - that day smallpox is released back into the world!   And as badly as we have failed with this, imagine 30% or more of the people who have gotten it so far being dead.  And instead of just a few hundred thousand getting it, a Billion getting it.   New York is stacking bodies in refrigerator trucks now.  We are gonna need more refrigerator trucks...

And all because the Orange Cheetoh stayed in denial more than 2 months before he should have done something.  Oh, wait - he did do something - he got rid of the pandemic response planning group!   



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 06, 2020, 05:20:58 pm
Oklahoma City's future construction development

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/alleysend2.jpg)

Alley's End, 278 downtown apartments; with garage parking.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/alleysend1.jpg)

Above, more than four acres at NW 4th & E.K. Gaylord Boulevard (South of the YMCA & Old OPUBCO headquarters);
three five-story buildings with 278 apartments, the city agency received two submissions and has selected Alley's End (above pics)
as the preferred development. Pics via OKCTALK.com



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 08, 2020, 12:26:48 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction continued

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/radisson040820a.jpg)

Radisson, formerly Wyndham, Crown Plaza & Hilton (2945 Northwest Expressway)  

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy040820a.jpg)

Embassy Suites  3233 Northwest Expressway, formerly the Marriott and Tower Hotel.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/reno040420b.jpg)

Candlewood Suites  4400 West River Park Drive -- pics via OKCTalk


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 10, 2020, 12:19:56 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction updated projects

First Americans Museum, One Place, Many Nations.

Museum cost balloons to $175 million



(https://secureservercdn.net/198.71.233.44/xv4.728.myftpupload.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/523A0617-Edit2_faces-1-e1576177675176.jpg)


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm040620c.jpg)


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm040620b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm040620a.jpg)




The museum is now set to open its doors to the public in May of 2021



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 10, 2020, 01:11:07 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction updated projects

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/36walker040420a.jpg)
   Town-homes at Edgemere Park

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-a53a1a2a6312beb5f925b3df5d3301df.jpg)
Big Friendly Brewery
(https://i.imgur.com/4yf6aQe.jpg)
Old Downtown Airpark, Oklahoma City (Now in Wheeler District)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 10, 2020, 01:56:03 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction updated projects


MAPS 4 initiative improvements: $104 million for Chesapeake Arena & $11 million for Thunder NBA practice facility

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-ae3f3ebab7a25e9877c4f63377ba76fe.jpg)

(https://usatthunderwire.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/usatsi_12560687.jpg?w=1000&h=600&crop=1)
All new seats will be installed
(https://stories.usatodaynetwork.com/maps4/wp-content/uploads/sites/236/2019/11/chesapeake2.jpg)

(https://t7.rbxcdn.com/75b189caec2341c88c2f98d6bba1b234)
NBA Thunder practice facility upgrades





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 13, 2020, 02:26:31 pm
Oklahoma City Hospitals

Integris Baptist Medical Center Complex, Oklahoma City

(https://live.staticflickr.com/6163/6261695970_c4283f31e8_b.jpg)
898 Staffed Beds

OU Health Science Medical Center Complex

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-ac484239124a05fbbfed78e326b0ae5e.jpg)
860 Staffed Beds
Oklahoma's only Level One Trauma Center

SSM Health Saint Anthony Hospital - Midtown Oklahoma City
(https://oknursingtimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/original430WEB.jpg)
774 Staffed Beds

Mercy Medical Center, far Northwest Oklahoma City
(https://okcfox.com/resources/media/07050b50-53a6-4f86-b18d-453703e131f1-large16x9_mercy.JPG?1458252565142)
349 Staffed Beds


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 13, 2020, 06:19:52 pm
  
Lake Hefner & the Lighthouse with restaurants lined along the shore.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49686513513_c80712cec8_h.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 15, 2020, 05:42:52 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction updated projects

Oklahoma City Councils allocates $32.5 million from MAPS 3 surplus funds

                                             (https://ggwash.org/images/posts/201511-162121-13.jpg)

Historic Union Station, located next to Scissortail Park will receive $19 million for the City to purchase, renovate and incorporate into the scheme of the park.


          (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619j.jpg)
                         $9 million in MAPS 3 surplus will be allocated for construction of the new $100 million State Fair Coliseum

          (https://www.lifespandesignstudio.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/okc-front-1-1024x683.jpg)

 $5 million will go toward expansion of the first senior wellness center and two more set for NE 36 & Lincoln Boulevard and at Western Avenue, south of SW 134.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 15, 2020, 06:46:13 pm
Oklahoma City Train Station Depot Renovation

                         (https://www.nps.gov/nr/feature/places/photos/15000874.jpg)        
Oklahoma City's historic Santa Fe Station to serve as Intermodal Transit Hub

               $28,429,872 renovation included a $13.5 million grant from the U. S. Department of Transportation.


          (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-d2b5d907f1a182963070ae84942d205b.jpg)
               Union Station is shown from its north side. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman]
                          Awarded $19 million in MAPS 3 Initiative surplus funds.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-e13a4fda147897720019cfea091e729d.jpg)
The passenger waiting area with its 25-foot-high ceiling was restored in 1978 by Thurman Magbee and can be cleared of office pods added in the center of the area so that it can be returned to its original appearance. [Photo provided by the Oklahoma Historical Society]




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 16, 2020, 12:56:39 pm
                   (https://s3.amazonaws.com/cms.ipressroom.com/259/files/20167/57ab79152cfac262145cd9b1_8-8-16+scam+alert+photo/8-8-16+scam+alert+photo_mid.jpg)

There are a flood of scammers out there with bad actors trying to obtain your information like Social Security Number (SSN) which appears on the Medicare card with an A or B letter that follows.  Scammers want to steal SS numbers for unofficial purposes.

Unsolicited calls; do not give out any  information.  My Aunt was called today from (405) 493-3194 (spoof call), which doesn't work when you call them.  She was about to give out her Red, White & Blue Medicare card # which is the same as her Social Security Number when I interrupted and took over the call.   Quickly exposed the person who didn't call back.

Please be aware that anyone asking for SSN # or RWB Medicare Card # are probably up to nothing good.  Medicare or Medicaid related calls, check your caller ID.   Older adults are not familiar with scammers--check on those who may be vulnerable to being a victim.

Medicare Fraud Hotline at (800) 633-4227
 
Social Security Administration Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271.

Any Covid-19 or Disaster scam calls, Report to the National Center for Disaster Fraud hotline (866) 720-5721.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 16, 2020, 01:59:48 pm
 (https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Okc_cotterranchtower.JPG/800px-Okc_cotterranchtower.JPG)(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst041620a.jpeg)

                New glass panels being installed in BancFirst Tower's $63 million makeover in downtown Oklahoma City.


                                             (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-ed731446c9b1025c48bae9c8aeceda6a.jpg)
                                                              
When completed, city's 2nd tallest skyscraper will have new glass panels replaced as part of the renovation of the former Liberty/Chase/Cotter Ranch Tower.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2020, 02:41:09 pm


Oklahoma City Scissortail Park, Convention Center & Garage, Omni & Fairfield Inn Hotels

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventions041720a.jpg)
                Sandwiched by the new OKC Convention Center and The Chesapeake Energy Arena is the 605 room Omni Hotel.
                Combined the Omni & Fairfield Inn will provide 738 rooms to the Convention Center Complex.
                Oklahoma City will have 4,506 hotel rooms available in the downtown core.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking032820b.jpg)
                    The new 1,100 space Garage under construction to provide for parking the Omni Hotel & additional spaces for The Peake Arena.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention033120a.jpg)

   Awesome views via OKCTalk.com.  These projects are going thru the finishing touches to the upper 40 acres of the 70 acres Scissortail Park.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2020, 06:11:36 pm
Oklahoma City Skydance Bridge repair updates

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydance041720a.jpg)

New $750,000 deck panels are made of lightweight concrete panels replacing the wooden panels.  The bridge serves
as the connection between the upper and lower sections of Scissortail Park;
it ties the central business district to the Oklahoma River trails for bicyclists.


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydance041720b.jpg)
The steel structure is a replica of the Oklahoma State bird, the Scissortail Flycatcher; it reflects the seasonal color changes like
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's,  Valentine's Day, St. Patrick's Day, Independence Day...


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydance041720b.jpg)

Workers have replaced more than half of the new lightweight concrete panels (Pics via OKCTalk.com)


Skydance Bridge over 10 lanes of I-40 in Oklahoma City https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi5FNUDjJfk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi5FNUDjJfk)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 18, 2020, 07:14:00 pm
Bricktown, Oklahoma City's Entertainment & Nightlife District.
In the city that we love...



(https://okcfox.com/resources/media/5727e27c-99a6-47db-b391-58015f2b6e67-large16x9_IMG_1475.JPG?1561849042852)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott032820d.jpg)
Under construction
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott080818a.jpg)
Coming soon - 10 story, 182 guest rooms
Bricktown canal tour via drone:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2020, 02:50:35 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction Updates...

I-235 / I-44 Interchange to the Turner Turnpike.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i23444041820a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i23444041820b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i23444041820c.jpg)

Two crossing flyover ramps coming into view.


Updates via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 19, 2020, 08:24:45 pm
Break Time, Funny Stuff...


Jennifer Lewis as Snooki:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8_v5OKBkWQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8_v5OKBkWQ)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 21, 2020, 12:30:21 pm
Advanced Science and Technology Education Center (ASTEC) Charter School Campus.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/astec041920a.jpg)

23 acres of land, $35 million campus.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/astec060719.jpg)

Current campus (not pictured) is location on NW 23rd next door to Shepherd Mall Office Complex.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 21, 2020, 04:28:19 pm
Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates

Don E. Porter ASA Hall of Fame Stadium, Northeast OKC


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball042120a.jpg)

New sod field installation for the $35 million upgraded  project.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball042120b.jpg)
Beautiful 12,500 seat stadium with new upper deck completed; making it the largest softball specific venue in the nation.
Hosting the annual event pumps an estimated $25 million economic impact stimulus into the OKC economy.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball042120c.jpg)
Breath taking gravity of the mammoth Softball Hall of Fame Complex with practice fields & Remington Park stables in the upper left background; ESPN national telecast with new booths insured Oklahoma City hosting the NCAA event until 2035.
Pics courtesy of  OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 24, 2020, 10:38:24 am
2019 MSA Population Estimates for Oklahoma City eclipse 1.4 million

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline082518.jpg)

Source:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_metropolitan_statistical_areas (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_metropolitan_statistical_areas)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 26, 2020, 04:08:25 pm
OKC Convention Center Complex; convention center (middle) with garage construction below
and Scissortail Park, Omni (Right) & Fairfield Inn (Center left) off Shield Boulevard Bypass.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention042320a.jpg)
Continue to see daily workers leaving around 3 p.m., from the Oklahoma City convention center complex as construction stays on pace.
Above pic via OKCTalk.com gives you a glimpse of this massive project.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-81e3b8319511e3614a13c8ed6863d613.jpg)
Shield Boulevard Bypass, allow access from the south part of OKC into downtown

(https://arrival.i.lithium.com/t5/image/serverpage/image-id/754285i3E5EB219D6DA7D8A/image-size/large?v=1.0&px=999)
Skydance bridge is the safest pedestrian link into downtown from the Latino Riverside & Capitol Hill areas.  Shields Boulevard Bypass
pedestrian ramps provide the other shoe leather access from Riverside and the Amtrak walkers route along the train tracks link from Fort Worth.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 26, 2020, 05:25:20 pm
Old Oklahoma City

A glimpse of the past.

(https://www.okcphil.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/DannyKaye.png)
6,500 seat Municipal Auditorium (Civic Center Music Hall), home to the All College Basketball Tournament, concerts & conventions.

(http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/DougLoudenback/stockyards/coliseum1922s.jpg) (http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a49/DougLoudenback/stockyards/coliseum1931s.jpg)

The 1922 Coliseum (left) was rebuilt in 1931 (right) only to succumb by another fire in the 70s and was demolished by the city.

The old ancient 5,500 seat Stockyard Coliseum in Packingtown, Stockyard City hosted Friday night wrestling and was the home to the
Oklahoma City Warriors of the American Hockey Association in the 1930s




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 26, 2020, 08:07:59 pm
Break Time, Funny Stuff

Jennifer Lewis, on "In Living Color." - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBloL2xCeyk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBloL2xCeyk)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 27, 2020, 10:04:18 am
Oklahoma City voters recently approved $140 million as part of the $987 million MAPS 4 initiative to be dedicated toward the improvements of parks in the city. All parks
in OKC will receive some kind of upgrades and renovations.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/perez111019a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/perez2.jpg)
Mark Hoffman Skate Park in Wiley Post Park, Riverside

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/perez1a.jpg)
                                                     Above pics via OKCTalk.com

Manuel Perez (1923-1945) was an Oklahoma City native who received the coveted Medal of Honor for his heroics in World War II.  The present Perez Park is located
in South Oklahoma City on land that is less than a 1/4 acre near Our Lady of Guadalupe (Little Flower) Catholic Church north of the Oklahoma River near Wiley Post Park.



This area of Oklahoma City is really vibrant and growing with new homes and the eventual addition of 30 acres of lower Scissortail Park.
Oklahoma City has 4 more action skate parks planned throughout the city; each Quadrant will have at least one Skate Park. Wheeler Park is located just northwest of Wiley Post Park across Walker Avenue.






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 27, 2020, 01:58:53 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/scissortail042320a.jpg)

                   Progress on installation of the lightweight concrete panels on Skydance Bridge; hopefully a permanent fix.
              Pedestrian Bridge overlooks historic Union Station (red shingled roof building on the left); OKC awarded $9
              million in surplus MAPS 3 funds to get the renovations started.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 30, 2020, 12:16:42 pm

Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates:

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-f64913969e4828c058be3198e01db924.jpg)
I-35/I-235

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/lead630_blur-8de81fb1a3fcb737d7be89f0b792947d.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-46316252b66c383d72331ceb76eef7e4.jpg)
Above pics I-40 Bridge Replacement

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i35i44042120a.jpg)
I-44/I-35 MLK



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 30, 2020, 12:29:18 pm
(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/53e92dcbe4b014110f0dd7ab/1410880123260-I3N114A7R6AVS0S07M1G/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kLkXF2pIyv_F2eUT9F60jBl7gQa3H78H3Y0txjaiv_0fDoOvxcdMmMKkDsyUqMSsMWxHk725yiiHCCLfrh8O1z4YTzHvnKhyp6Da-NYroOW3ZGjoBKy3azqku80C789l0iyqMbMesKd95J-X4EagrgU9L3Sa3U8cogeb0tjXbfawd0urKshkc5MgdBeJmALQKw/SPUI+Aerial+Closeup.jpg?format=750w)
I-40 Morgan Road, Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on April 30, 2020, 03:46:55 pm
   
“One Church, Many Disciples.” 
                             


Drone pics of planned Blessed Father Stanley Francis Rother Shine
             & 2,000 seat Basilica foundation in South Oklahoma City via OKCTalk.com



(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rother043020d.jpg)
                                                                                     I-35 pictured in the upper right; project will be visible from the interstate.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/rother043020b.jpg)
                                                                                             I-35 above with 89th Street at the right; left of center.

  
The Basilica in Oklahoma City

(https://archokc.org/photoalbums/bl-stanley-rother-shrine/BSR%20Pic.jpg)

(https://archokc.org/photoalbums/bl-stanley-rother-shrine/Altar2.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on April 30, 2020, 06:28:34 pm
  
“One Church, Many Disciples.” 
                             


That is so Oklahoma, simply a great new building, in an ugly industrial area tucked in behind a tire barn, a truck stop and a bunch of fast food. Could there be a worse location?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on May 01, 2020, 10:50:42 am
That is so Oklahoma, simply a great new building, in an ugly industrial area tucked in behind a tire barn, a truck stop and a bunch of fast food. Could there be a worse location?

Too bad it couldn't have been built adjacent to Scissortail Park by downtown OKC, the architecture is similar to Union Station that already anchors the south end of the park.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 01, 2020, 11:21:58 am
Too bad it couldn't have been built adjacent to Scissortail Park by downtown OKC, the architecture is similar to Union Station that already anchors the south end of the park.

Good observation, thought about how this would look closer to the part, the shingles on both roofs of Union Station & the Basilica would have added a Spanish decor to that area of downtown.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 01, 2020, 12:12:50 pm
Good observation, thought about how this would look closer to the part, the shingles on both roofs of Union Station & the Basilica would have added a Spanish decor to that area of downtown.




Good thing they are building it!   It's obvious that we don't have enough churches in the state!   One for every 10 people is WAY to sparse!

And yeah, sometimes I just can't resist the sarcasm....


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on May 01, 2020, 03:09:33 pm
Good observation, thought about how this would look closer to the part, the shingles on both roofs of Union Station & the Basilica would have added a Spanish decor to that area of downtown.

That's exactly where I was thinking it should have been built.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 01, 2020, 05:50:30 pm
Bricktown Marriott update:

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott043020a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott080719g.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott080818a.jpg)
10-story, 182 guest rooms, will be the tallest structure in Bricktown.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 03, 2020, 11:55:24 am

Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates
:

Interstate 235 reopens early...

Construction crews were able to hand a bridge beam earlier than expected; however you will still see lane closures adjusted to accommodate this project.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-4bbffe0ef88e8993aec6d235c13e4d84.jpg)
I-235/I-44 to the Tulsa Turner Turnpike TJunction
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-013140b6214924d3d8711f2202d73cce.jpg)
$105 million interchange reconstruction at I-235 and I-44  with two fly overs. Construction is expected to continue into the summer of 2021.  Pics via The Oklahoman



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 05, 2020, 01:43:53 pm
 
                                                                   
Skydance Bridge repairs update...

                                                            (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydance043020a.jpg)

New deck is made of metal & fiberglass panels with a thirty to forty year life span; anticipated opening in mid May.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 07, 2020, 10:03:48 pm
                                                                      
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/D6sj7aUXsAAzMP9.jpg)

Costco targets Oklahoma City for new operations center


Seattle based Costco wants to open an operations and customer care center that would add more than 1,000 jobs over the next three years with an average annual salary of $59,740. This would involve $3 million in incentives from the Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust and the State of Oklahoma's Quality Jobs Program.  Costco reports it expects to invest more than $25 million to purchase a property along with furniture, fixtures and equipment.

Roy Williams, president of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, noted the deal is well timed as the city — faces a rising unemployment rate due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Oklahoma City Chamber estimates the total economic impact will be $772 million over the first seven years of operation based on total project impact, including capital investment, wages, state and local taxes.

They plan to begin hiring very soon and want to be in operation by the end of the calendar year according to Cathy O’Connor, president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.  O'Connor indicated thousands applied for jobs at the warehouse store and that’s when they realized we had an adequate workforce that is highly motivated.

Costco also felt the effects in stores after reporting a surge in sales during the first weeks of the pandemic.  The company also reported an 88% increase in eCommerce sales, which will be the focus of the Oklahoma City operation.

A second Costco is expected to start construction in Moore, OK this fall. It should be open sometime next year.  The metro's first Costco store opened in May, 2019, near the Kilpatrick Turnpike and Western Avenue.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 07, 2020, 10:56:12 pm

New look for Oklahoma City Sheraton Luxury Hotel

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/sheraton050320a.jpg)
395 available 4 star luxury hotel rooms.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/sheraton092219b.jpg)
 Pics via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 08, 2020, 03:46:12 pm
Supporters pushing for world-class aquarium in Oklahoma City; project put on the shelf; Covid-19.

https://kfor.com/news/supporters-pushing-for-world-class-aquarium-in-oklahoma-city/ (https://kfor.com/news/supporters-pushing-for-world-class-aquarium-in-oklahoma-city/)



(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aquarium6.jpg)
Funds needed for $100 million Aquarium
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aquarium10.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 09, 2020, 10:14:51 am

(http://www.cooperpa.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Church-Exterior-1-1100x619.jpg)

Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine Site Cam Live Feed

https://www.archokc.org/shrinewebcam (https://www.archokc.org/shrinewebcam)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 09, 2020, 02:08:16 pm
Reports from OKCTalk.com on Omni Oklahoma City

The last crane is gone!


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omni050920b.jpg)
The 605 room Omni Oklahoma City will require some internal finishing touches for its premier opening in early 2021

(https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/fetch/c_fill,h_246,q_75,w_400/https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/v1/clients/oklahoma/cc_logo_a8357d85-d959-4c85-bcb9-8fbe858a35a1.png)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 10, 2020, 12:43:03 pm
                             Oklahoma City Convention Center's Planned Expansion

                          (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/conventionback2.jpg)

                           (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention050920b.jpg)

                          (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention111019a.jpg)
The new OKC Convention Center was built with room for future growth.  Just south of the project is an area for future growth and development both under & above ground development.  The convention center expansion potential is the area beyond the center toward the I-40 crosstown expressway.

The 'convention center complex' includes the Cox Convention Center & Arena, Chesapeake Energy Arena, Omni Hotel, Fairfield Inn & Suites and OKC Convention Center.

There will be 2,018 hotel rooms within walking distance from the convention center; it will allow OKC to bid on some tier II & III class conventions


Quote
MIKE: We have been approached by the RNC to consider bidding to host their annual convention. And we'll probably look at it for 2024 or 2028. But political conventions are not nearly as attractive for cities as they used to be.

Republican National Convention asks Oklahoma City to bid on hosting future event:  https://oklahoman.com/article/5655601/republican-national-convention-asks-oklahoma-city-to-bid-on-hosting-future-event (https://oklahoman.com/article/5655601/republican-national-convention-asks-oklahoma-city-to-bid-on-hosting-future-event)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 10, 2020, 08:36:08 pm
Bricktown Marriott Renaissance update...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott050920a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott050920b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/hotel1.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott050920c.jpg)

Construction on the 7th floor of this 10 story hotel.
When completed, it will be the tallest structure in Bricktown.


Pics via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 14, 2020, 01:07:07 pm
Update pics on some OKC projects via OKCTalk.com

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/okcps051420b.jpg)
Oklahoma City Public Schools I-89 new Administration Building (center) Auditorium (left)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking050920b.jpg)
Convention center's 1,100 space garage, completed 4 of 6 stories

New Downtown Garage, proposed 7 level garage rendering.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/parcfirst2.jpg)
ParcFirst @Bricktown, proposed 799 space garage[/b]

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking051420a.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 15, 2020, 11:01:33 am
OKC Will Rogers World Airport Terminal Expansion updates...

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/Exterior_front_from_west_upper_drive_3.JPG)

The $89 million project will add 133,022 square feet to the existing 410,000 square-foot airport terminal;
addition includes four new airline gates, a consolidated security checkpoint and much-needed greeting lounge space.


(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/observation_gallery_3.JPG)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 15, 2020, 06:34:39 pm
Transformation of Oklahoma City's BancFirst Tower...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst051420a.jpg)

The blue mullions to the first few floors above the lobby are being installed;
this tower will look like a new skyscraper once the outer skin is completed.
The new blue mullions will blend better with the Devon & BOK Plaza Towers.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 17, 2020, 10:24:03 am
Oklahoma City Heartland Payments to add another 400 jobs to its current 550 workforce.

(https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/clientuploads/images/Heartland_HQ_Rendering1.JPG)



The new Heartland headquarters started construction in late 2018 with the company committing to relocate 160 employees from its Edmond headquarters along with at least 345 new hires to downtown Oklahoma City as part of a $1 million jobs incentives agreement approved by the Oklahoma City Council...

...The addition of 400 jobs at Heartland follows an announcement last week that Costco is planning to open an operations center that will employ 1,044.

“We kept that land to expand that building knowing growth was coming,” Burnett said. “The growth happened so fast and they needed the additional space so quickly we couldn’t get the additional land built in time for when the jobs were needed. We planned for expansion. We planned for it to happen. It just happened so fast.”

That expansion, Burnett said, remains an option.--Oklahoman, 05/17/2020

Oklahoman full story link:  https://oklahoman.com/article/5662422/heartland-to-add-400-jobs-to-its-downtown-workforce (https://oklahoman.com/article/5662422/heartland-to-add-400-jobs-to-its-downtown-workforce)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 17, 2020, 01:56:40 pm
 
New Oklahoma City Convention Center

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention051620a.jpg)

Looking (front) east from Scissortail Park crossing South Robinson Avenue...

Pic via OKCTalk.com https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=250 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=250)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 18, 2020, 12:15:37 pm

Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates...


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/23544051620a.jpg)
I-235/I-44 Interchange, pics via OKCTalk.com
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/23544051620b.jpg)

...I-44 leads to the infamous Turner Turnpike to Tulsa.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 18, 2020, 06:21:17 pm
OKC's 30 story SandRidge Energy Tower to sell for $35.5 million

(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/ff/Sandridgetower_6_20_2009m.jpg/300px-Sandridgetower_6_20_2009m.jpg) (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r620-90f131c0f352af1e7043af515675dbc2.jpg)

Sources have told The Oklahoman the tower purchase is tied to House Bill 2840, which calls for the Department of Environmental Quality to sell its building at 707 N Robinson Avenue, and for the agency to move into an unspecified property along with --Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, the Oklahoma Tax Commission, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, the Oklahoma Department of Labor and the Department of Mines.--Oklahoman, Steve Lackmeyer: Monday, May 18, 2020



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 18, 2020, 09:18:30 pm
BancFirst Tower's external renovation

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst051420b.jpg)

This will be a beautiful blue structure when the project is finished.

(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=16077&d=1589618656)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 18, 2020, 11:10:12 pm

Oklahoma Skylines

(https://www.emporis.com/images/show/745318-Large-undefined-view-of-the-city-skyline-from-the-hills-west-of-bartlesville.jpg)

Bartlesville, Oklahoma

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-58e0924bb625c7217d2755d3249483de.jpg)
Enid, Oklahoma

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-b00048fe4adfa2ee7f5f4275486b527c.jpg)
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0337/7469/products/tulsa-oklahoma-skyline-wall-mural_1800x1800.jpg?v=1546449264)
Tulsa, Oklahoma

(https://assets.adventureroad.com/media/1798/ar_destination_winstar-winstar1.jpg?preset=grid)

Thackerville, Oklahoma





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 19, 2020, 09:13:23 am
Oklahoma City ASA Hall of Fame Stadium
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball042120b.jpg)

Live stream ASA Hall of Fame Stadium construction:  https://youtu.be/DD40KgTFMbc (https://youtu.be/DD40KgTFMbc)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 19, 2020, 11:28:12 am
We got to spend the day in OKC area yesterday and did a small drive through of downtown, and areas south.  SO MUCH stuff going on there!  It has escalated since I quit the daily travel there a couple years ago.

I think I have pinpointed the two most significant things that highlight the differences between OKC and Tulsa and are likely the big reasons there is so much difference between the two.

Del Rancho
Grandy's

OKC has several of each!  Tulsa has none.  OKC is cruising along at high speed.  Tulsa is doing ok, but not as energetic or enthusiatic.   We need the Steak Sandwich Supreme and Grandy's Sinnamon rolls to get some energy back into the area!   We keep focusing on and obsessing about getting a "big win" like Tesla, when we haven't even thought about the critical infrastructure needed as baseline functionality!   If we get a couple of each (at least) we will then have the critical ingredients necessary to fuel our progress well into the century!






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 19, 2020, 02:10:07 pm
I hear ya, heironymouspasparagus

Del Rancho and Grandy's are two of my favorite places.  I think we're down to 3 Del Ranchos and  3 Grandy's, all three are close to one another.  Those steak sandwiches at Del Rancho and Grandy's killer cinnamon rolls and taste of garlic in their chicken is addictive...

Also, the next time you're in OKC visit Chuck House at 4430 NW 10th Street (east of NW Meridian Avenue) open 7 days a week, Oklahoma City, OK 73107 · 405-942-0852.  They have huge steak sandwiches that almost cover your plate.

Have to limit myself to one visit every two weeks--unless my amnesia kicks in accidentally on purpose.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 19, 2020, 02:26:34 pm
If you like BBQ smoked ribs:

Suggest you try these joints:

King's Corner Market 1800 N Martin Luther King Ave, 8 blocks north of Douglass High School

George's Happy Hog Bar-B-Q   712 Culbertson Drive near Oklahoma State Capitol Building and OU Health Science Center.  Also a variety of chopped pork & sliced beef

If you like Fried or steamed Fish:

Cajun King 5816 NW 63rd St, Oklahoma City

Poe Bouyz House 3500 Interstate 35 Service Rd, Oklahoma City,
  Odd looking place near N. E. 36th Street of the I-35
 (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-0a7ae2d61f37344fcb0358d9ffc806c2.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 19, 2020, 03:38:21 pm
If you like BBQ smoked ribs:


If you like Fried or steamed Fish:

Cajun King 5816 NW 63rd St, Oklahoma City

Poe Bouyz House 3500 Interstate 35 Service Rd, Oklahoma City,
  Odd looking place near N. E. 36th Street of the I-35
 (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-0a7ae2d61f37344fcb0358d9ffc806c2.jpg)


I think I have tried King's Corner and George's.   Would have lunch meetings at work...when I had to work...lol.  And would get carry out.   Got it from both of those places I was told,  and it was good!    Got to say, though, we got them beat.   Smokies out in Broken Arrow, and Albert G's in an old gas station on Harvard, Tulsa, both are better. 

Still looking for a good fried catfish place.  The catfish trough in Moore closed a few years ago and haven't found a suitable replacement!   Doesn't Cajun King have one out in Midwest City, too?  If so, have been there and it was great!   (Usually I have to go to Dallas for the Cajun fix.... Pappadeaux.)

Poe Bouyz I have seen a LOT going up and down 35 and always wanted to stop, just never  got the chance!   May have to have another short road trip!   I am planning to build a small office building and the motif will be the 'crooked little man' from the kids fairy tale.   No, not Trump...different crooked little man!   Not just doors and windows, but walls and roof, too.









Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 19, 2020, 06:54:42 pm
Smokies and Albert's G's, I will definitely try them out.  

Plan to visit sometime this year, preferably December to visit the burial site (Memorial Park Cemetery) of Sam Kinison, one of my favorite actors and noise boxes. The dude still cracks me up to this very day.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 20, 2020, 09:51:37 pm
Smokies and Albert's G's, I will definitely try them out.  

Plan to visit sometime this year, preferably December to visit the burial site (Memorial Park Cemetery) of Sam Kinison, one of my favorite actors and noise boxes. The dude still cracks me up to this very day.


Sam was pretty funny sometimes.  Just one more case of how we take drunk driving so lightly - 1 year of probation for murdering someone with a car...

Side note about Del Rancho;   I visited with the lady taking orders for a while as I waited.  Asked how things were...if they were getting back to anything close to normal.   No, they are not.  She said they have been extremely busy since they closed indoor dining.   As in business is almost double what it was before.  Whew!   Guess they are doing just fine!




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 21, 2020, 12:10:09 pm
There are businesses holding up with take out orders.  People here seem cautiously optimistic about reopening; many seem to be handling the Covid-19 restrictions well.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 21, 2020, 12:14:20 pm

Oklahoma City's BancFirst Tower update via OKCTalk.com


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst051820b.jpg)

Can't wait to see this project once 80% of the glass exterior is installed; very slow process.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 21, 2020, 04:38:56 pm
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4329/35289593343_11f43a5bfd_b.jpg)
                                       City - 655,057                                                                                                                     Metro - 1,408,950

  
Oklahoma City is now the 25th largest city in the United States, according to the latest annual population estimates released Thursday by the U.S. Census Bureau.

The new figures show Oklahoma City has moved up six spots in the the population rankings from the 31st spot it occupied in 2010, when the last 10-year census was done.

Oklahoma City's population has grown by more than 12 percent since that time, enabling it to pass Louisville, Memphis, Baltimore, Milwaukee, Portland and Las Vegas in the population rankings.

Oklahoma City now has an estimated 655,057 people.

"To have finally arrived in the top 25 is obviously a major milestone for our city," said Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt. "People vote with their feet and your population growth is sort of the ultimate judgment of how well you're doing as a city — whether you're a place where people to desire to live in and work in.

"We've been moving in the right direction for a good two decades now, and it's always nice for us when these numbers come out because it's usually a validation that what we're doing is working. People want to live here and they're moving here."

Every 10 years the U.S. Census Bureau conducts a thorough count of the nation's population. That 2020 census is not yet complete, but the bureau has completed its annual estimates of city populations.

Those estimates, which are as of July 1, 2019, were the numbers released Thursday and they contained some interesting revelations.

For example, they show Edmond has surpassed Lawton to become Oklahoma's fifth largest city.

Edmond now has an estimated 94,054 residents, which is an increase of more than 15 percent over the 81,405 residents reported by the official April 2010 census.

That makes Edmond the fastest growing city in Oklahoma with a population of at least 50,000 and the 108th fastest growing city in the nation in that category.

"That's great news," said Sherry Jordan, president and CEO of the Edmond Area Chamber of Commerce. "While that's great news, it's not necessarily surprising given our reputation for great schools and a high quality of life here in Edmond.

"We have shopping, dining — pretty much everything you want to do, you can do here without leaving our city limits. We have a low cost of living and a high quality of life here."

Jordan said Edmond officials remain hopeful the city will pass the 100,000 mark when the the 10-year census count is completed.

Oklahoma City, Norman and Moore have all grown more than 12 percent since 2010, the Census Bureau reported. It listed Norman's updated population as 124,880 and Moore's population as 62,055.

Lawton's population has dropped about 4 percent since 2010 and is currently estimated to be 93,025.

The Census Bureau now lists Tulsa's population as 401,190, up more than 2 percent from 2010, and Broken Arrow's population at 110,198, which was an increase of more than 11 percent during that same time period.

Meanwhile, the state's population has grown from 3,751,351 to 3,956,971, an increase of nearly 5.5 percent.  
Oklahoman, Randy Ellis, May 21, 2020

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skyline081118.jpg)

Pics via OKCTalk.com




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 21, 2020, 05:14:33 pm
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/66/Downtown_Oklahoma_City_skyline_at_twilight.jpg/1280px-Downtown_Oklahoma_City_skyline_at_twilight.jpg)

Oklahoma City is the 25th Largest City in the United States

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_cities_by_population#Census-designated_places (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_United_States_cities_by_population#Census-designated_places)







Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on May 21, 2020, 08:29:04 pm
There are businesses holding up with take out orders.  People here seem cautiously optimistic about reopening; many seem to be handling the Covid-19 restrictions well.


This afternoon, took one of the great grandkids to Captain D's for some shrimp - he loves their grilled shrimp skewers.  I kinda like them too, even though they could use just a touch more seasoning...

Anyway, talked to the kids running the show, asking how their business was doing.  Drive through only.  They said it was very busy most of the day.  Didn't really compare to before shutdown, but got the impression it was at least as good as the dine in.  They are very busy today anyway.

Would not be surprised to see some convert to drive through and take out after all this.  Hasn't hurt some and certainly would cut costs.  One of the Pizza Huts here did that a couple years ago and they still are in business.  Not sure why, cause they are so horrible!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2020, 11:25:23 am
Pizza Hut like Dominoes are average eats; it improves the taste ONLY if you are super hungry.  You'll pay $30 or more for a large pizza with multiple toppings here in the city if you want a quality pizza like Pappa Johns...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2020, 11:36:08 am
Oklahoma City Heartland Payment Systems Corporate Headquarters

(https://media.giphy.com/media/XbDQdz48njqZ847M3Y/source.gif)
Scheduled Opening August 2020 for this $40 million facility



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2020, 12:04:34 pm
BancFirst Tower update...

(https://i.imgur.com/P0aDB5j.jpg?1)

This will be a great transformation to the skyline


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 22, 2020, 12:18:27 pm
 
OMNI OKLAHOMA CITY

(https://media.giphy.com/media/Ve5LvsnQ4yUZlNsfmi/source.gif)
Cranes are gone... Anticipated opening early 2021



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 24, 2020, 10:29:11 am
Primed for OKC commercial development...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/coop052320b.jpg)

Old OKC Producers Cooperate Mill site has been cleaned and ready for development.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 24, 2020, 12:04:18 pm
I-235/I-44 Interchange

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44052320a.jpg)

Massive Oklahoma City interchange could eventually tie into the Eastern Oklahoma Turnpike in Oklahoma County.
Pic updated via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 24, 2020, 01:25:58 pm
First Americans Museum, Oklahoma City update...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm052320a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm052320c.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/aiccm052320b.jpg)

First Americans Museum with Oklahoma River and Oklahoma City skyline in the background.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 24, 2020, 03:04:00 pm

The Boulevard, a mixed-use development project in Midtown.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevard052120a.jpg)

The 34,000-square-foot, two-story building will be leased with retail on the first floor and offices on the second floor.


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/midtownblvd8.jpg)

Will complement the current Midtown Plaza Court

(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/blog/2937795/midtown-1155gf.jpg?cb=1521608390)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 24, 2020, 03:44:02 pm

Carvana, Oklahoma City


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/carvana102719a.jpg)
Oklahoma City is the 30th U. S. Market with the Carvana vending machines
1800 West Memorial, Oklahoma City


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 25, 2020, 10:32:44 am
Oklahoma City's ASA Hall of Fame Stadium

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball052320b.jpg)
Construction crews have completed the new media center and press box, adding suites and a 4,800-seat expansion as a part of the overall  addition to the stadium.  The upper deck will provide more shelter against rain covering the expanded concourse below.  Total expansion & renovation costs  totaled $28 million of which $21 million was paid for thru OKC 2017 bonds; the rest thru donations. 

A beautiful layer of green sod has been laid on OGE Energy Field as finishing touches will be made for the upcoming 2021 WCWS.  Pic via OKCTalk.com


The Women's College World Series is scheduled to return Thursday, June 3 to Wednesday, June 9, 2021 on ESPN.  The annual tournament  has an estimated $25 million economic impact into the Oklahoma City economy.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 25, 2020, 12:42:36 pm
New Oklahoma City Convention Center, parking garage, Omni Hotel & Fairfield Inn & Suites.
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention052320a.jpg)
Oklahoma City Convention Center complex looking north with Scissortail Park (left) and Skydance Bridge on the massive I-40 crosstown expressway (below).  

Oklahoma City is being considered as a the future host for the GOP Republican National Conventions in 2024 & 2028.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 26, 2020, 08:31:41 pm
Oklahoma City Costco to Acquire Hertz at Quail Springs

(https://images.crexi.com/assets/322021/8936e5dc251a4ef2a2fda2f8f12a4a5f_1306x734.jpg)

Massive Hertz 225,000 square foot, 4-story building at a company-owned office building near Quail Springs is rumored to be the site for Costco's new operations center.

Oklahoma City Economic Development Trust approved an incentives plan that would bring a Costco operations center to the city; it would create more than 1,000 jobs over the next three years.

The new jobs' annual would pay $44,606 (first year wage) growing to $59,740 (third year wage) of operations; they anticipate the new operations center to hire an estimated 1,044 employees.  According to KOCO-TV news, the jobs would reflect a new non-retail sales related business presence in Oklahoma City by Costco.

Capital investment in this project by the company, including the purchase of an existing facility and the furniture, fixtures and equipment, would be in excess of $25,000,00O.

OKCTalk.com reported Wednesday that the Hertz property, a 225,000 square foot, 4-story building at a company-owned office building near Quail Springs Mall is the target to house the operations center.

Hertz employees at their operations on NW Expressway is where consolidations are being made at that operations center.

The garage is on schedule to be finished before the opening of the new convention center and the 605 room Omni Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 27, 2020, 10:21:47 am
Oklahoma City's 1,100 space Convention Center Garage.
Art decor for the garage.

                               (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking051420h.jpg)
Glass artist Martin Donlin is set to start installation in September of a five-story mural, “What Is The City But The People,” on the east, west and south sides of the garage being built in Park Union District. [PROVIDED]
                                  (http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-05-27/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F05%2F27&id=Pc0240800&ext=.jpg&ts=20200527083208)
A  five-story mural is set to add some color to a 1,100-space garage being built in connection with the Oklahoma City Convention Center, the Omni Hotel and Scissortail Park.--Lackmeyer, Oklahoman, May 12, 2020

The garage construction is on schedule to be completed prior to the opening of the new convention center and Omni Oklahoma City Hotel.  Total costs of this project is $23.5 million; the 7 level garage can be expanded to handle a maximum of 1400 vehicles.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 28, 2020, 10:11:52 am
BancFirst Tower exterior renovation update via OKCTalk.com.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst052720a.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 28, 2020, 10:21:43 am
Bricktown Marriott on the 9th floor.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott052720a.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 28, 2020, 06:48:10 pm
Costco purchases 225,000 square foot, 4-story Hertz Administrative Center for $25.4 million.

(https://www.greatmirror.com/images/medium/018819.jpg)

The purchase of the Hertz Administrative Center will allow Costco to fill up a sizeable amount of the 225,000 square foot 4 story structure with room for growth.

The operations and customer care center will add about 1,044 total jobs in the third year with an average annual salary of $59,740.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 30, 2020, 10:42:37 am
Oklahoma City's skyline transformation

Devon & BOK Park Plaza Towers(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-4dcc5d02b8e40101a45b3510e2af17ed.jpg)
A new look with Sandridge Tower (below, acquired by State for new offices), on the right, First National Center (outside lighting) & BancFirst Tower (complete exterior renovation).
Changes will be transformative...


(https://www.okcarchitecture.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/downtown-kerr-mcgee-tower-night-2009-101d5000-682x1024.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 30, 2020, 11:50:34 am
Thunder Alley Entertainment Proposed.

(https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/04/thunder-alley-design-concept.png?w=900)

(https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/04/thunder-alley.png?w=900)

(https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/04/thunder-alley-entertainment-block.png?w=900)

(https://kfor.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2019/04/thunder-aeb.png?w=900)

Oklahoma City Thunder has submitted a conceptual proposal for a new Thunder Alley Entertainment Block to be opened in 2021.  The new plaza at the
intersection of Oklahoma City Boulevard and Thunder Drive designed to be an extension to the existing Southwest entry to Chesapeake Arena.

The designs submitted by Bockus Payne Architecture show a development with significantly more street presence than the first renderings submitted earlier this year.  

Director Cathy O’Connor, of the Urban Renewal Authority, said the development team, Hogan Property Co. and the Thunder, wants to “move fast” in getting construction started.--Oklahoman.



OKC Thunder Alley video:  https://www.news9.com/story/5e3710d573ed4c0f33eda165/plans-for-new-thunder-alley-submitted-to-okc (https://www.news9.com/story/5e3710d573ed4c0f33eda165/plans-for-new-thunder-alley-submitted-to-okc)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on May 30, 2020, 02:00:20 pm
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0103/1222/products/prt.frstanleyrother_600x.jpg?v=1571438610)

                        (https://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/enidnews.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/6/5c/65c1ed3a-bd51-11e6-9cea-c36fbc099f25/58496c3d14b9f.image.jpg?crop=876%2C1198%2C251%2C36&resize=200%2C274&order=crop%2Cresize)

Retreat, pilgrimage planned to learn about martyred priest

The Gospel of Life School is inviting young adults ages 18-30 to part or all of a 24-hour retreat to pray, reflect and learn about the life of Blessed Stanley Rother. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the vulnerability of the elderly and terminally ill served through the GOLD ministry, precautions for physical distancing throughout this retreat/pilgrimage will be strictly followed. Participants are asked to wear a mask.

The event will be from 8 a.m. June 5 to 10 a.m. June 6 and will include a visit to the Catholic Pastoral Center, Mass at the Good Shepherd Chapel at the John Paul II GOLD residence in Moore, an opportunity to pray at the temporary tomb of Blessed Stanley Rother at Resurrection Cemetery, a conference with Fr. Don Wolf at Holy Trinity Church, Okarche, and lunch at Eischen’s. Also on the schedule is a meditative prayer walk from Rother’s birthplace to Holy Trinity Cemetery, eucharistic adoration, praise and worship at Blessed Stanley Rother Barn and an overnight silent all-night adoration at Good Shepherd Chapel.

For more information, contact Sister Maria of the Trinity at srmaria@gospeloflifedisciples.org


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 02, 2020, 01:35:19 pm
BancFirst exterior renovation update

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst060320a.jpg)

Mullions are being installed as the good weather has permitted.
BancFirst renovations are equivalent to a new skyscraper.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 03, 2020, 12:34:37 pm
Oklahoma City Northwest Embassy Suites

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/embassy040920b.jpg)
 
Scheduled to reopen June 10th OKCTalk.com sources report.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 07, 2020, 03:14:05 pm
You can bet having extra convention space with the Cox backup and the Fairgrounds Bennett Events Center will allow OKC flexibility to bid on more conventions & trade shows simultaneously.

Fairgrounds Complex:

               (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-8524db047b55225fc7dab621b0fbdc21.jpg)

               (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena022619j.jpg)

                      Bennett Event Center: 201,000 square feet exhibit space
               State Fair Coliseum: 7,000 seat arena
               10 hotels, Meridian Hotel Corridor 1,200 rooms


(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195023777-GV4QL9JEPRVHJ5DQJVD5/537EV-west+edited.jpg?format=500w&content-type=image%2Fjpeg)  

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1496678124782-UD0YMI4O87KLL6TYPK7A/OKC+CC+Ext+Robinson.jpg?format=750w&content-type=image%2Fjpeg)
 


Cox Convention Center & Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex:



          300,000-square-foot exhibit hall space.
                  48 meeting rooms
                    2 ballrooms: 30,000-sq. ft ballroom - 25,000 sq. ft. ballroom
                    2 arenas: 20,000 & 15,000
                    2 covered garage parking areas 2,047 spaces
                  12 hotels in walking distance 2,900 rooms


Dual combo facility to really attract some major tier 2 conventions to Oklahoma City--think about it.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 07, 2020, 05:49:47 pm
(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-36df4e4d8c6096b6e9591a771fa95722.jpg)

Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex with the L/R Sheraton Hotel, Renaissance Hotel, Cox Convention Center, Chesapeake Energy Arena and Courtyard by Marriott in the middle right above The Peake

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention053020b.jpg)
Skylink between the Omni Hotel and MAPS 3 Oklahoma City Convention Center.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 10, 2020, 02:52:58 pm
OKC BancFirst Tower progress update via OKCTalk.com

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst060820a.jpg)

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EElu0RSX4AAEQIv.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst120819ga.jpg)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 11, 2020, 12:54:33 pm

Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates . . .

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120c.jpg)



I-235/I-44 Interchange


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 13, 2020, 02:06:30 pm
OKC BancFirst Tower progress update via OKCTalk.com

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bancfirst061220a.jpg)

An internal release to BancFirst employees, minus some small department details that shouldn't be public:

Phase I work on the Lobby and Plaza (north ¾) and Underground (entire Underground) area began in October 2019 and is scheduled to be completed on January 4, 2021.


Phase I – NORTH ¾ OUTDOOR PLAZA

• The outdoor plaza surrounding the Tower will include landscaping with plants capable of thriving in an urban environment. Agronomists from the Myriad Gardens assisted with selection of plant materials.

• A new pergola-covered outdoor seating area will be added to the east side of the plaza, including an area for food trucks.

• Valet service will be added at the north entrance for both bank customers and tenant customers.

Phase I - NORTH ¾ of LOBBY

• The north side first floor lobby will include a security desk with a prominent Oklahoma art piece; teller kiosks; offices for business bankers and support staff; and a 24 hour ATM with a separate exterior entrance.

• Those familiar with the previous food service options will see a new Petro Deli in the northeast corner of the lobby with seating for 50. A separate coffee bar will serve specialized coffee, include a pastry case, and bar-height seating.


Phase I - UNDERGROUND

• The Hot Tamale Mexican Café in the Underground will have a total new look but will serve the same great menu.

• The Executive Barbershop under our existing building will move with us and be adjacent to the Hot Tamale.

• Included in the Underground plan are teller kiosks, a contract US Post Office, safe deposit boxes, and offices for Universal Bankers.

• A large BancFirst employee lounge will be added to the Underground where fresh and healthy food options will be available, as well as sodas and snacks. Restaurant style tables and chairs will be available in addition to areas of comfortable seating.

Phase II – LOBBY AND PLAZA

• Work on the remaining south portion of the Lobby and Plaza will commence upon completion of Phase I with an estimated completion in July 2021.

• The south side of the lobby will be occupied by Red Earth with both a retail presence and museum quality art display/rotation area.

BANCFIRST FLOORS 2-14

• Demolition and renovation of the BancFirst occupied floors 2 through 14 is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year. The exception to this plan is the 2nd floor which will be completed by July 2021, at the same time as Phase II of the Lobby and Plaza.

REPLACEMENT OF TOWER GLASS

• Replacement of all of the exterior glass on the Tower has begun on the north side of the building. Glass will be replaced on 4-14, one side at time with estimated completion at the end of 2020. The glass on floors 1 and 2 will be done in conjunction with Phase I and II of the Lobby, Plaza and Underground.

• Glass replacement will then move to floor 15 and work up to the 36th floor, one side at a time, with the completion of the glass scheduled by the end of 2021.

.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 13, 2020, 03:23:33 pm
  
Future of the NBA in OKC

                  (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119.jpg)
      New northwest entrance, apart of MAPS IV $104 million of $115 million arena improvements with $9 million targeting the Thunder Practice Facility.

                                                            
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena073119i.jpg)

                                      (https://usatthunderwire.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/usatsi_12560687.jpg?w=1000&h=600&crop=1)
             New 'red' colored seats will replace the teal colored original seats installed in the Ford Center Arena in 2002
The Peake's NBA seating capacity is 18,203.

          
The relocation of the NBA's Seattle Supersonics to OKC in 2008 brought the state's 1st major league franchise to Oklahoma.
OKC hoped to lure an NHL franchise in 1997; only to have those plans derailed with expansion awarded to Columbus, OH

                  (https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/558cb662e4b0fd0c637a89c0/1554061050638-939VS8D8RAW02PHLDSZ3/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kCQSGgTRD85H4OEHWClXpVRZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWEtT5uBSRWt4vQZAgTJucoTqqXjS3CfNDSuuf31e0tVEZuWl4nPCySRUxMBrlMNbnxgdJG-_JYjZ7020A1-xa557wwBJDowuqDTBtMzLDSAo/wemadeit_7_3_08_2.jpg)
Oklahoma City is 'Supersonics.'

Oklahoma City narrowed down the list to six possible names.  Obviously,"Thunder' was eventually chosen, but other names in the running were Bison, Wind, Barons, Marshalls, and Energy. Perhaps some of these names could work, but now the Thunder name is synonymous with Oklahoma City (OKC).

Oklahoma City trial test-run as an NBA market.  OKC' metro population in 2008 was estimated at 1,219,000 making it the 3rd smallest market in the NBA ahead of New Orleans and Salt Lake City.

Oklahoma City hosted the NBA's New Orleans-Oklahoma City Hornets following Hurricane Katrina from 2006 to 2007 averaging 18,168 and 17,833 respectfully; far exceeding the 12,500 goal expected for a temporary relocated NBA franchise.  

The first year the Thunder entered the OKC market the franchise drew an all-time record 18,693.  The Ford Center Arena was reconfigured to accommodate lodge seating and expanded national & regional TV coverage apparatus which reduced the capacity from 19,103 to its current 18,203.




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 14, 2020, 09:28:51 am
Oklahoma City's Skydance Bridge renovations.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydanc061220a.jpg)
Overlooking I-40 Crosstown Expressway thru downtown OKC.
Courtesy via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on June 15, 2020, 09:04:34 am

Oklahoma City Construction Junction updates . . .

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44061120c.jpg)

I-235/I-44 Interchange


Tulsa needs major overhaul to several of its freeway interchanges.  The primary one I could think of right now is the interchange at US169 (Mingo Valley Expwy) and US64/SH51 (Broken Arrow Expressway).  That interchange is incredibly busy and deserves a stack interchange to replace the stupid, outdated clover-leaf.  It's dangerous.  I-44 at US64/SH51 could use one also.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: SXSW on June 15, 2020, 09:24:56 am
Tulsa needs major overhaul to several of its freeway interchanges.  The primary one I could think of right now is the interchange at US169 (Mingo Valley Expwy) and US64/SH51 (Broken Arrow Expressway).  That interchange is incredibly busy and deserves a stack interchange to replace the stupid, outdated clover-leaf.  It's dangerous.  I-44 at US64/SH51 could use one also.

Agree both of those need to be reworked.  I know 75/I-44 is slated to get a stack interchange at some point.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Hoss on June 15, 2020, 12:09:55 pm
Agree both of those need to be reworked.  I know 75/I-44 is slated to get a stack interchange at some point.

All three of them need it but from what I read that's long term (late 2020s at the earliest for all of them).


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 25, 2020, 09:28:22 am
All three of them need it but from what I read that's long term (late 2020s at the earliest for all of them).
 

I've been on those 3 major Tulsa interchanges, agree they are in dire need of upgrades--many bridges and interchanges in Oklahoma are in need of replacement or repair at the very least.

The vehicle count travel on those interchanges in the link below identified that Tulsa has a dire need. 

ODOT - Oklahoma Department of Transportation High Impact Projects Map https://biappsrv.odot.ok.gov/apex/f?p=129:2:::NO:2:: (https://biappsrv.odot.ok.gov/apex/f?p=129:2:::NO:2::)

ODOT - Oklahoma Department of Transportation https://www.ok.gov/odot/ (https://www.ok.gov/odot/)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 25, 2020, 09:42:20 am
 
Dallas Mixmaster

(https://i.pinimg.com/474x/9b/cb/7c/9bcb7cf82bb202c9eb0b09f92b039262--dallas-texas-aerial-view.jpg)

Texas roads are a model for the nation



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 26, 2020, 04:13:15 pm
New seats & sod for Oklahoma City's baseball & softball venues...

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott061420c.jpg)
Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/softball052320c.jpg)
ASA Hall of Fame Stadium & OGE Field

On deck
(https://usatthunderwire.files.wordpress.com/2019/08/usatsi_12560687.jpg?w=1000&h=600&crop=1)
The Chesapeake Energy Arena will be equipped with more fan friendly amenities; expanded and renovated locker room facilities; upgraded wifi and other extras that will enhance the game & fan experience.  An additional entrance will be added.  MAPS 4 initiative provided for $115 million in improvements to Oklahoma's 18,203 seat NBA arena that can accommodate over 20,000 for large concerts.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 30, 2020, 12:33:36 pm
Aerospace firm to bring 120 jobs to Oklahoma with new headquarters in OKC

(http://share.opsy.st/5dd45e6fb086c-jet-in-hanger.jpg)

The company was founded in 2017 and currently has offices in Spain and the Washington, D.C., area.


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-d9e439f7ecf9a7e00b1af3758085e57d.jpg)

Skydweller Aero will bring 120 jobs to Oklahoma by 2024, the aerospace firm said in an announcement of its new headquarters in Oklahoma City:  https://www.tulsaworld.com/business/aerospace-firm-to-bring-120-jobs-to-oklahoma-with-new-headquarters-in-okc/article_bccc6358-130e-57c0-afd1-541c284f7a1b.html (https://www.tulsaworld.com/business/aerospace-firm-to-bring-120-jobs-to-oklahoma-with-new-headquarters-in-okc/article_bccc6358-130e-57c0-afd1-541c284f7a1b.html)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on June 30, 2020, 12:52:14 pm


Aerospace firm to bring 120 jobs to Oklahoma with new headquarters in Oklahoma City.



Press release:

*************

Skydweller Announces Oklahoma City as U.S. Corporate Headquarters
Cutting-Edge Aerospace Startup Bringing 120 Top-Tier Engineering Positions to Oklahoma
NEWS PROVIDED BY
Skydweller
Jun 30, 2020, 10:00 ET

OKLAHOMA CITY, June 30, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Skydweller Aero Inc., a U.S.-Spanish aerospace company developing renewably powered aircraft for defense and commercial industries, announced the establishment of their corporate headquarters and engineering operations in Oklahoma City and testing and integration in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Skydweller plans to increase operations to 120 aerospace engineering and field technician jobs in Oklahoma by 2024.

"It has been my pleasure to work closely with the leadership team at Skydweller, and I am thrilled they have decided to locate their new headquarters in Oklahoma. Our state's commitment to aviation and aerospace makes Oklahoma City an ideal choice for a cutting-edge company with a commitment to advancing the industry. At a time when job creation and economic growth are so vital, we are excited that Skydweller will be hiring our bright engineers and helping to enrich our state's economy," said Governor Kevin Stitt.

Founded in 2017, Skydweller recently closed a Series A funding round in September 2019. The company currently has offices in the Washington, D.C. area, Madrid and Valdepeñas, Spain. This rapidly growing multi-national startup will be recruiting top-tier aerospace and software engineering talent to further the development and deployment of their ultra-persistent, unmanned aircraft in both locations over the coming years.

"Skydweller was founded to develop ultra-persistent aircraft to enable the next generation of connectivity and global insights," said CEO Dr. Robert Miller. "We are honored to be moving our corporate headquarters to Oklahoma, following in the footsteps of Oklahoma aviation titans like Wiley Post. Oklahoma's inspired and dedicated engineering talent will help make our vision a reality."

"Skydweller has chosen the right state for their new headquarters and testing facility," US Senator Jim Inhofe (R-OK) said. "Because of our state's remarkable skilled workforce, Skydweller will be an excellent addition to our aerospace industry, producing cutting edge unmanned aviation technology for our military. I am confident that this facility will benefit our economy and our military both now, and in the future."

"It's great to welcome Skydweller to Oklahoma as they announce their plans to make Oklahoma City the new home of their US headquarters. Oklahoma is home to innovative technology across all industries, so it's no wonder they chose our state to expand their aerospace engineering to continue production of aircraft that can carry heavy payloads. This is exciting news for Oklahoma City and our state," said US Senator James Lankford (R-OK).

With a commitment to STEM education and ongoing civic engagement, Skydweller will partner with local educational and state and federal research institutions to further Oklahoma's legacy of aviation and aerospace innovation. Skydweller also plans to expand their operations within the state, building a manufacturing plant and flight test facilities in Ardmore.

About Skydweller Aero Inc.

Skydweller is a US-Spanish aerospace company developing renewably powered aircraft solutions capable of achieving perpetual flight with heavy, powerful payload capacity. Utilizing technology based upon the longest continuous renewably powered flight program in history, this fast-growing startup is developing a new class of unmanned aircraft, providing the persistence of geosynchronous satellites with the powerful sensing capabilities and range of a large, airborne platform.

With a flexible payload system, including: communications relay, 4G/5G cellular, day/night full motion video, satellite communication, imaging radar, and more, Skydweller will enhance commercial and government telecommunication, geospatial, meteorological and emergency operation efforts around the world, allowing customers to operate persistently in more challenging areas for longer durations, while reducing environmental impact. For more information about Skydweller, visit www.skydweller.aero.

.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on July 01, 2020, 10:28:33 am

Aerospace firm to bring 120 jobs to Oklahoma with new headquarters in Oklahoma City.


This a good win for Oklahoma.   I'm really curious about the politics that went into this, and how many states passed on it.   Not sure if everyone is comfortable with building unmanned drones that are designed to basically stay in the air indefinitely to surveil the populace.   And as an aside, "Skydweller" has a great ring to it.  I mean, if we put enough of these in the air at once we could have complete coverage.  Kind of a "Skynet" or something...  ;)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on July 02, 2020, 10:17:45 pm
Tulsa needs major overhaul to several of its freeway interchanges.  The primary one I could think of right now is the interchange at US169 (Mingo Valley Expwy) and US64/SH51 (Broken Arrow Expressway).  That interchange is incredibly busy and deserves a stack interchange to replace the stupid, outdated clover-leaf.  It's dangerous.  I-44 at US64/SH51 could use one also.

US-75/I-44 - $66mm interchange/highway widening starting this year. Spending through 2027 adds another $95mm for the interchange and widening
US169 and US64/SH51 - gets $30mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2027
US169 and I-44 - gets $13mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2023
I-44 at US64/SH51 - gets $6.5mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2024

https://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2020-ffy2027/8_year_cwp_divisiontul_map.pdf


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 03, 2020, 11:58:11 am
US-75/I-44 - $66mm interchange/highway widening starting this year. Spending through 2027 adds another $95mm for the interchange and widening
US169 and US64/SH51 - gets $30mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2027
US169 and I-44 - gets $13mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2023
I-44 at US64/SH51 - gets $6.5mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2024

https://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2020-ffy2027/8_year_cwp_divisiontul_map.pdf


The best thing Governor 'Jethro Bodine' Stitt could do for Oklahoma instead of wasting valuable resources on the tribal gaming packs would be to concentrate on Oklahoma roads, bridges & interchanges. 

(https://www.gannett-cdn.com/-mm-/d8d0774057d19139d16e6ede624d76e89947662d/c=1-0-1365-767/local/-/media/2018/11/27/USATODAY/usatsports/247WallSt.com-247WS-507510-imageforentry1167.jpg?width=1320&height=744&fit=crop&format=pjpg&auto=webp)
Broken Arrow, Oklahoma

(https://www.405magazine.com/content/uploads/data-import/d4ff08ef/Features-03-Main-Streets-Sulphur.jpg)
Norman, Oklahoma

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/56/c4/fd/56c4fd15ebd6323f5dca7113aeb911ca.jpg)
Edmond, Oklahoma
We need a long-term investment of several billion to overhaul Oklahoma's infrastructure and Public Transportation with high concentration in Tulsa & Oklahoma City metro areas' infrastructure.   Growing suburban communities like Broken Arrow (109,171), (Tulsa), Norman (123,471) & Edmond (93,127), (Oklahoma City) where the suburban communities have exceeded or are approaching 100,000 population.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 03, 2020, 06:49:07 pm
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention061220a.jpg)

Finishing touches on Oklahoma City's massive new convention center, Omni Hotel, Scissortail Park and 5 story garage.

Friend wants me to go to work at this complex in 2021; however, because of my age Covid-19 made the decision for me. This Oklahoma heat makes the artificial lake inviting. Visited the area the other day and the huge Gold Fish were probably more hungry than piraña flesh eating fish; would enjoy a good Filet-O-Fish; however wouldn't want to be on the menu.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 06, 2020, 12:39:12 pm
Devon Energy Tower window replacements.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/devon070520a.jpg)

Damaged windows are being replaced with the project almost complete.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 06, 2020, 12:55:25 pm
Bricktown Marriott has topped out at the 10th floor.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/marriott070520a.jpg)

When completed, it will be the tallest structure in Bricktown Entertainment District.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on July 06, 2020, 03:57:46 pm
US-75/I-44 - $66mm interchange/highway widening starting this year. Spending through 2027 adds another $95mm for the interchange and widening
US169 and US64/SH51 - gets $30mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2027
US169 and I-44 - gets $13mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2023
I-44 at US64/SH51 - gets $6.5mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2024

https://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2020-ffy2027/8_year_cwp_divisiontul_map.pdf




Good to hear!   Starting in a few years to do what is only about 25 years past due!



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 07, 2020, 08:25:11 am
Our state needs desperately to focus on Tulsa's interchanges & road infrastructure; there is no excuse for the lame attention that Mary Fallin's administration took toward building new roads other than the Eastern Oklahoma County turnpike (Kickapoo Turnpike) that buckled the belt around Oklahoma County.

Seeing the pics now of what we were use to seeing in Tulsa is disgraceful; Tulsa had roads that once rivaled many of those in Texas.  Tulsa pays more than its share on toll roads--ODOT needs to use these proceeds collected to do major upgrades to Tulsa's road infrastructure.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 07, 2020, 10:47:13 am

Oklahoma City Skydance Bridge

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/skydance070520a.jpg)


Repaired and open, OKC's Pedestrian Bridge stretches the length of a football field.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 09, 2020, 11:08:04 am
Oklahoma City's Scissortail Park, Convention Center & Omni Hotel.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention061220c.jpg)

                    Beautiful lust green lawn and colorful vegetation sets in as OKC's downtown park morphs its character.
            Lower Scissortail Park will extend to the Oklahoma River to Skydance Bridge; it will portray a slightly different personality.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 09, 2020, 03:14:27 pm
    
Oklahoma City's Wheeler District residential housing at Old Downtown Air Park
The recently acquired Santa Monica Ferris Wheel is seen left of center & below.


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/wheeler061620d.jpg)

(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/0c/1b/d1/6e/wheeler-ferris-wheeler.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-7fa5be0b432dc7fa554ec2726dab8739.jpg)

Top residential pic via OKCTalk.com


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 12, 2020, 01:45:32 am

               Oklahoma City's Scissortail Park

               Taking Flight Art in the Park

               A 20-ton orb called Taking Flight is the art centerpiece designed especially for Scissortail Park
               that will welcome visitors. Standing at 19’ tall it will suspend a sphere from angled
               columns that stretch from the ground up and around the sphere, which will be made from
               643,648 highly polished discs sized to Oklahoma City’s population and colored to echo the
               coppery hue of Oklahoma’s soil. Taking Flight is also designed to allow light to shine through
               the orb at night, as shown in these renderings showing the view from the hill created in the
               center of the park.


               (https://scissortailpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Taking-flight-3.png)

               Robbie Kienzle, the city’s arts and culture program planner, said the orb, which will be held
               up 19 feet in the air with beams suggesting an orb in flight, will match the height of the
               bandstand stage and cafe being built on each side of the art piece along the northeast
               corner of the park.--Oklahoman.


               (https://scissortailpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Taking-Flight.png)

                 STUDIOKCA Architects were chosen by a selection committee that included former Mayor
                 Mick Cornett, Councilwoman Meg Salyer, park designer Mary Margaret Jones, Scissortail
                 Foundation Director Maureen Heffernan, and several civic leaders and city officials involved
                 in planning for the park. STUDIOOKCA is an award-winning architecture and design firm led
                 by Jason Klimoski and Lesley Chang based in Brooklyn, New York with projects ranging in
                 scale and complexity from lighting fixtures and interiors, to public installations, sculptures
                 and buildings in New York, Vermont, Nevada, Wisconsin, Brazil, Taiwan, and Papua New
                 Guinea


               (https://scissortailpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Taking-Flight-day-time-1024x534.png)
                 [Rendering by Jason Klimoski and Lesley Chang with StudioKCA].
                           

               


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on July 13, 2020, 04:24:55 pm
             

               (https://scissortailpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Taking-flight-3.png)



Reminds me of Sputnik.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on July 13, 2020, 04:44:27 pm
Reminds me of Sputnik.

Close enough.

(https://asgardia.space/storage/page/publication/b1/6b/b16b2ccaab862ed361ea6fc8cc5d31c2ef0ee17bf26e927b68725840c7131b52.jpg)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on July 14, 2020, 11:31:55 pm
Close enough.

(https://asgardia.space/storage/page/publication/b1/6b/b16b2ccaab862ed361ea6fc8cc5d31c2ef0ee17bf26e927b68725840c7131b52.jpg)

Please excuse the thread drift but...
My dad was a Ham Radio Operator.  We had recordings of the radio signals from Sputnik on reel-to-reel tape.  I have no idea where the tapes are or if the old tape recorder even still works.  I just checked, I still have the tape recorder.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on July 15, 2020, 08:56:04 am
Reminds me of Sputnik.

That was my first thought also...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 16, 2020, 12:24:12 pm
Oklahoma City's Heartland Payments

     (https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/heartland071620a.jpg)

Scheduled August Opening

          Heartland, already set to fill up its new downtown headquarters with 550 employees, is adding another 400 who will be moving into the Mideke Building in Bricktown.

The $40 million headquarters on Broadway is being built by Andy and David Burnett, while the Mideke Building was purchased by Andy Burnett with partners Tom Ward and Jeff Johnson in 2014.--Excerpts from the Oklahoman,--May 17, 2020

The facility will also be home to HP Edmond branch employees who will be relocated to the new Oklahoma City office venue.

Fifth Street garage parking (left) shared by the Gaylord 4th Street Branch YMCA and several local businesses will provide parking for Heartland Payments' administrators and employees.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 16, 2020, 01:00:39 pm

Arvest Bank acquires former Fidelity Plaza
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arvest070620d.jpg)
Formerly Fidelity Plaza & Bank of Oklahoma Plaza

Arvest Bank will eventually occupy the 16-story tower at 201 Robert S. Kerr Avenue.  Bank of Oklahoma (main OKC branch moved into BOK Park Plaza back in 2018.)  This structure when renovated will have exterior LED lights that will add to the future of the ever changing OKC Skyline that will include major changes to BancFirst Tower, First National Center and the recently purchased Sandridge Tower where state offices will fill that tower to capacity.

(https://www.cbre.com.au/-/media/cbre/countryunitedstates/corporate-offices/texas-oklahoma/oklahoma-city/2017/oklahoma-city-skyline_768x582.jpg?mh=0&w=768&mw=0&h=582&la=en&hash=3388FB1594126EC6D998B126B3C9D27532D3747C)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 12:09:12 pm



                                               
Oklahoma City set to realize Core to Shore vision

                    (https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/original/7432178/wileypost060320e.png)

                         (https://ak.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/1052901365/thumb/1.jpg?ip=x480)

                             (https://media2.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/original/7432174/lowerpark062520a.png)

     Project Core to Shore is to generate private investment within an area of approximately 1.3 square miles (823 acres) between Downtown Oklahoma City and the
     Oklahoma River.
     
     Oklahoma Gazette:  https://m.okgazette.com/oklahoma/decades-in-the-making-city-set-to-realize-core-to-shore-vision/Content?oid=7432170 (https://m.okgazette.com/oklahoma/decades-in-the-making-city-set-to-realize-core-to-shore-vision/Content?oid=7432170) 


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on July 17, 2020, 12:34:30 pm
I read that article on okctslk, Arvest didn’t buy the building and they certainly aren’t occupying 16 floors. TheY leased the bottom two floors and and got naming rights to the building.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 12:46:11 pm
'The Thrive,' Oklahoma City Affordable 316 Unit Senior Housing Complex

(https://scontent-ort2-2.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/s720x720/107000203_1777790799027640_1606637112860205333_o.jpg?_nc_cat=107&_nc_sid=2d5d41&_nc_ohc=WFgU94RILVQAX9Gyv-2&_nc_ht=scontent-ort2-2.xx&_nc_tp=7&oh=2a9ab3e90f197380629692c107ed9de6&oe=5F387E6B)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/thrive071520d.jpg)

Plans are scheduled to go before the Oklahoma City Design & Review Committee next month.

OKCTalk.com reports:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45340&p=1130080#post1130080 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45340&p=1130080#post1130080)









Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 12:57:24 pm
I read that article on okctslk, Arvest didn’t buy the building and they certainly aren’t occupying 16 floors. TheY leased the bottom two floors and and got naming rights to the building.

Thanks Swake for the correction; they will obtain 'naming rights' and acquisition of the bottom two floors.  If and when this occurs it will be an improvement to the skyline since the building is currently vacant--will fill some vacant space.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on July 17, 2020, 03:05:48 pm
Thanks Swake for the correction; they will obtain 'naming rights' and acquisition of the bottom two floors.  If and when this occurs it will be an improvement to the skyline since the building is currently vacant--will fill some vacant space.



FWIW, I'm pretty sure the building is NOT currently vacant.  I wonder what would cause you to think that.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 04:30:56 pm
FWIW, I'm pretty sure the building is NOT currently vacant.  I wonder what would cause you to think that.


It's vacant...


My brother use to bank there, last time I went by there (May 2020) didn't see any activity to indicate that it was occupied.  

Arvest is interested in the 80,000 sq., ft lobby area that Bank of Oklahoma occupied; BOK moved across the street to BOK Park Plaza Tower.   The whole building has 212,816 sq. ft. listed by Price Edwards:  

Link: https://www.priceedwards.com/oklahoma-city-property/office/lease/arvest-tower (https://www.priceedwards.com/oklahoma-city-property/office/lease/arvest-tower)


Oklahoma City CBD office vacancy rate is currently 21.9% according to Price Edwards reporting for calendar year ending 2019.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 04:41:25 pm
Omni Oklahoma City hotel projected opening in early 2021

(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=16261&d=1595016593)

(https://www.okctalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=16262&d=1595016680)

(https://journalrecord.com/files/2018/07/20902_N6.jpg)

The hotel will feature 605 luxurious guest rooms, inclusive of 29 suites, with dramatic views of the 70-acre Scissortail Park and the downtown skyline.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 04:57:39 pm
        
ENR Texas & Louisiana Announces 2020 Best Projects Winners


     (https://www.enr.com/ext/resources/images/texas/2020/DJI_0304.jpg?1594839896)
      A total of 28,000 residents gathered on the Great Lawn on opening night of Scissortail Park to watch a free concert by Kings of Leon.
Photo by David Callahan on behalf of OKC MAPS



ENR Link:  https://www.enr.com/blogs/4-texas-louisiana-stories/post/49713-enr-texas-louisiana-announces-2020-best-projects-winners (https://www.enr.com/blogs/4-texas-louisiana-stories/post/49713-enr-texas-louisiana-announces-2020-best-projects-winners)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on July 17, 2020, 05:42:58 pm

It's vacant...


My brother use to bank there, last time I went by there (May 2020) didn't see any activity to indicate that it was occupied.  

Arvest is interested in the 80,000 sq., ft lobby area that Bank of Oklahoma occupied; BOK moved across the street to BOK Park Plaza Tower.   The whole building has 212,816 sq. ft. listed by Price Edwards:  

Link: https://www.priceedwards.com/oklahoma-city-property/office/lease/arvest-tower (https://www.priceedwards.com/oklahoma-city-property/office/lease/arvest-tower)


Oklahoma City CBD office vacancy rate is currently 21.9% according to Price Edwards reporting for calendar year ending 2019.



I guess someone should tell the numerous tenants who still seem to think they are located in the building.
Here are a few of them:
https://www.hartzoglaw.com/contact (https://www.hartzoglaw.com/contact)
https://okcomplaw.com/ (https://okcomplaw.com/)
http://www.oklahomacounsel.com/ (http://www.oklahomacounsel.com/)
https://www.kiralaw.com/contact/ (https://www.kiralaw.com/contact/)
https://www.cmastrategies.com/contact (https://www.cmastrategies.com/contact)

BTW, the Price Edwards link you provided does NOT purport to tell us the building is vacant.  In fact, if you click on the "Spaces" tab, it will take you to the page that shows the available spaces in the building.  If the building were vacant it would surely show space available on every floor.  It does not.

Oh, and you really went off the rails with your factoid about Arvest being "interested in the 80,000 sq., ft lobby area that Bank of Oklahoma occupied"...  There is not an 80,000 square foot lobby area in that building. (And of course it's already been reported that Arvest leased 40,000 square feet in the building.)  I suspect you read a January 2019 entry on OKCTalk and got confused.  It was reported at that time that the owner of the building would be trying to lease the lobby space that BOK occupied and that there was about 80,000 square feet available in the building (not that they were trying to lease 80,000 square feet of lobby space.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: swake on July 17, 2020, 06:15:45 pm
How is the public portion of the Omni Hotel being paid for?


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Oil Capital on July 17, 2020, 06:54:18 pm
Bonds.  And the bonds will be repaid by drawing on revenue generated by the hotel and on a package of other finance vehicles, including tax-increment finance districts


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Conan71 on July 17, 2020, 10:07:09 pm
US-75/I-44 - $66mm interchange/highway widening starting this year. Spending through 2027 adds another $95mm for the interchange and widening
US169 and US64/SH51 - gets $30mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2027
US169 and I-44 - gets $13mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2023
I-44 at US64/SH51 - gets $6.5mm for interchange improvement work starting in 2024

https://www.odot.org/cwp-8-year-plan/cwp_ffy2020-ffy2027/8_year_cwp_divisiontul_map.pdf


I don't think $30mm would come close to what needs to happen there.  Tulsa's cloverleafs worked into the mid 1990's, Tulsa is going to have to go stacked with fly-overs and no more donuts.  I don't see how $30mm comes close to completing flyovers for 51/169 in 2027 money.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 10:31:40 pm
How is the public portion of the Omni Hotel being paid for?

Bonds.  And the bonds will be repaid by drawing on revenue generated by the hotel and on a package of other finance vehicles, including tax-increment finance districts


     Forty five-year agreement:  Under the agreement, the city would fund about 36 percent of the cost of building the Omni Hotel, which will complement the
     planned MAPS 3 convention center. Omni OKC, LLC will cover the remaining $150.1 million in costs.


                     $85.4 million in public assistance
                   $150.1 million Omni
                   $235.5 million

Oklahoma City Convention Center:  $288 million financed by MAPS 3 initiative.

OKC Convention Center Parking Garage, 1,100 spaces (under construction) $23.6 million

Oklahoma City, unlike other cities, including Dallas, will not own the hotel, operate it or assume the risks for the operation or the construction,” according to O'Connor. “I believe that's the best thing about this. They're bringing $150.1 million to the table.

The public financing proposal being advanced by O'Connor does not involve any tax increases, but would instead draw from a recently approved property, hotel and sales tax increment financing district, proceeds from lease and mortgage payments paid back to the city from the public assistance provided development of the Skirvin and Bass Pro Shops, and a potential long-term ground lease for the Omni.

The agreement calls for financing through a bond issue to be paid from revenues from three existing downtown tax increment financing districts, including the most recent one that includes ad valorem taxes to be generated by the BOK Park Plaza tower at 499 W Sheridan Avenue.

The funding for the repayment of the bond will come from a variety of sources. The Omni Hotel will pay sales, occupancy and property taxes, which will be collected into a tax increment finance fund. Over a period of 25 years, the hotel will also pay the Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority for the land on which it will be built. Finally, if the hotel nets more than $20 million a year, it will be required to contribute a portion of its profits to help the city repay its bond debt.  Altogether, these sources are expected to generate between $22.1 million and $25 million.

The hotel itself would pay $200,000 a year for 25 years commencing the fifth year after completion. Other hotel revenues will include minimum annual tax payments of $1.4 million for 30 years.

City will provide 450 parking spaces to the Omni at a negotiated market rate.

The hotel is required to meet the AAA four-diamond rating with three to five restaurants and retail at the ground floor.

Tentative plans include a sports bar to face the Oklahoma City Boulevard across from the Chesapeake Energy Arena, a coffee shop and upscale full service restaurant. The city also gets a room block agreement that gives the Convention and Visitors Bureau a better chance at competing for larger conferences and visitor tourism.

The deal is with Omni OKC LLC., an Oklahoma limited liability company owned by Omni Hotels Corporation. The agreement calls for Omni to rebuild and reopen if it is ever damaged or destroyed.

Michael Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitor Bureau:  "A quality full-service hotel is a necessity in the positioning of any successful convention center as evidenced by the increased business Dallas, Denver and the new Nashville facility have enjoyed," Carrier said. "The Omni brand is widely known and appreciated in the convention industry and represents the quality we know will not only complement the new center but will add greatly to the marketing efforts we are already making in the solicitation of new business."






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 17, 2020, 11:57:03 pm
I don't think $30mm would come close to what needs to happen there.  Tulsa's cloverleafs worked into the mid 1990's, Tulsa is going to have to go stacked with fly-overs and no more donuts.  I don't see how $30mm comes close to completing flyovers for 51/169 in 2027 money.

ODOT needs to plan for more flyovers in both Tulsa & Oklahoma City on those interchanges;  $30 million isn't nearly enough for one interchange with flyovers.  

Here is I-35/I-235/I-44 Interchange with two long flyover bridges that tie over the ramp.  


Oklahoma City Construction Junction

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44071620a.jpg)
Pic via OKCTalk.com

In total, the project includes 11 new bridges with two long flyover bridges.  Project in total, represents a nearly $300 million investment in highway infrastructure.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 18, 2020, 04:08:06 pm

Oklahoma City Construction Junction


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44071620d.jpg)
Flyover ramps and bridges
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44071620b.jpg)
A more coordinated design and traffic flow for Oklahoma's interchanges
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/i235i44071620c.jpg)
I-235/I-44 Interchange Update via OKCTalk.com




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 18, 2020, 05:36:12 pm
Oklahoma's two largest metropolitan areas

Tulsa & Oklahoma City (2019) estimates combined MSA 998,626 & 1,408,950 = 2,407,576
  vs. State of Oklahoma  3,956,971  account for 61% of the state's population.


Anticipate a higher growth rate for Tulsa in the 2020s decade...

(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0337/7469/products/tulsa-oklahoma-skyline-wall-mural_1200x630.jpg?v=1546449264)
Tulsa (401,190 - +2.37%)

Combined Oklahoma's two largest metros
(https://www.tripsavvy.com/thmb/jol3xsRXgKMW_Co-y2NcUcERd5A=/960x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/high-angle-view-of-cityscape-against-sky-during-sunset-912958726-5b6df57ac9e77c005086b04d.jpg)
 Oklahoma City (655,057 - +12.94%)

Cities over 90,000 seeing growth...

Broken Arrow 110,135 Growth rate  11.42%
Edmond 93,849  Growth rate 15.29%
Norman    126,377 Growth rate 13.93%




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 19, 2020, 03:36:23 pm
Oklahoma's major arenas and coliseums


(https://images.fineartamerica.com/images-medium-large-5/bok-center-tulsa-bill-cobb.jpg)
          BOK Center Arena, Tulsa:  Basketball: 17,839, Hockey: 17,096, $196 million ($178 million public funds,  $18 million in privately funded upgrades.)

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195023777-GV4QL9JEPRVHJ5DQJVD5/537EV-west+edited.jpg?format=500w&content-type=image%2Fjpeg)
Cox Convention Center Arena, Oklahoma City, Basketball: 13,846, Ice hockey: 13,399, Original cost: $78 million ($23 million, $55 million in upgrades)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/arena100618.jpg)
Chesapeake Energy Arena, Oklahoma City:  Basketball: 18,203, Hockey: 15,152, $179 million ($89.2 million, upgrades: $90 million.) 
(https://www.chisholmtrailexpo.com/uploads/5/8/1/3/58133899/expo-entrance-orig_1_orig.jpg)
       Chisholm Trail Expo Center, Enid, 6,500, USBL Oklahoma Storm, 1999–2007; on May 2, 2000, 6,132 watched the Storm beat Atlantic City




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 20, 2020, 03:54:56 pm
OKCTalk.com breaking news:  

'Amazon to open yet another huge distribution center in Oklahoma City.
 


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonnonsort3.jpg)


The Amazon jobs keep on coming...

The new planned 1 million square feet center will be OKC's 4th Amazon facility; it will handle distribution of non sort items.

          Amazon Non Sort Facility (planning stages)
          Amazon Fulfillment Center
          Amazon Sortation Center
          Amazon Hub Locker


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonnonsort5.jpg)

Lariat Landing, Will Rogers World Airport Strategic Development Program.

Amazon's 2.5 million square foot Fulfillment Center near Will Rogers Airport (Lariast Landing 2,000 acre prime development) pictured above will have an adjacent 1 million square foot non sort facility being planned for the area.  The Fulfillment Center currently employs up to 1,800.  The non sort facility will employ right at 1,000.

According to OKCTalk.com 'Non-sort facilities typically stock and ship items such as kayaks, kegorators, grills and all types of bulky products available for purchase on-line.'  

Check-out the full story on OKCTalk.com - https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45881&p=1130472#post1130472 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45881&p=1130472#post1130472)[/b]


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on July 21, 2020, 04:28:05 pm
I don't think $30mm would come close to what needs to happen there.  Tulsa's cloverleafs worked into the mid 1990's, Tulsa is going to have to go stacked with fly-overs and no more donuts.  I don't see how $30mm comes close to completing flyovers for 51/169 in 2027 money.

$30mm won't even get you an arterial bridge/interchange replacement over a freeway. (no changes to the freeway)

https://azdot.gov/projects/central-district-projects/i-17-ti-reconstruction-happy-valley-rd-and-pinnacle-peak-rd/happy-valley-rd (https://azdot.gov/projects/central-district-projects/i-17-ti-reconstruction-happy-valley-rd-and-pinnacle-peak-rd/happy-valley-rd)

https://azdot.gov/adot-news/updated-roundabouts-near-end-line-i-17-happy-valley-road (https://azdot.gov/adot-news/updated-roundabouts-near-end-line-i-17-happy-valley-road)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 22, 2020, 09:30:30 am
dbacksfan 2.0

Oklahoma IMO is the last to get anything done on major interchanges in it's two major cities.   Tulsa and OKC should be the two major hubs for traffic in our state.  
Arizona (Phoenix, Tucson)  Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rough, Shreveport) and Colorado (Denver, Colorado Springs) gets it.  

We're the last to finally realize that cloverleafs went out with plaid in the 70s.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on July 22, 2020, 10:28:03 am
dbacksfan 2.0

Oklahoma IMO is the last to get anything done on major interchanges in it's two major cities.   Tulsa and OKC should be the two major hubs for traffic in our state.  
Arizona (Phoenix, Tucson)  Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rough, Shreveport) and Colorado (Denver, Colorado Springs) gets it.  

We're the last to finally realize that cloverleafs went out with plaid in the 70s.

I was born and raised in Tulsa, lived there from 1963 to 1998. I've been back four times, '04, '17, '19 and '20. I was glad to see the replaced 244/75 bridge over the river and the resurfacing of 244, but it still just surprises me how little surface streets have been maintained north 61st. Have they finished the construction/repair on 15th between Lewis and Utica?

I drove on my last trip back in March, and for once I will say I was thankful for a turnpike, I used the Kilpatrick to avoid the construction when I headed back. You mention cloverleafs, the interchange I linked to as well as a couple of others near there, was laid out originally as a cloverleaf but they never actually put in the loop segments. The traffic circles were good for about 10 or 12 years but then the area grew and the bridge and the circles just couldn't handle the flow.

You mention Tucson, I was talking with friends about what a pain Tucson is because of it's layout. It grew around Davis-Monthan AFB, main to the north and up against the Catalina Mountains, long before I-10 was built. When I-10 went through it was built on the west side of the city, and it never fails when any of us go to visit, the people usually live about 8 to 10 miles away from the freeway.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Weatherdemon on July 22, 2020, 11:56:42 am
I was born and raised in Tulsa, lived there from 1963 to 1998. I've been back four times, '04, '17, '19 and '20. I was glad to see the replaced 244/75 bridge over the river and the resurfacing of 244, but it still just surprises me how little surface streets have been maintained north 61st. Have they finished the construction/repair on 15th between Lewis and Utica?

I drove on my last trip back in March, and for once I will say I was thankful for a turnpike, I used the Kilpatrick to avoid the construction when I headed back. You mention cloverleafs, the interchange I linked to as well as a couple of others near there, was laid out originally as a cloverleaf but they never actually put in the loop segments. The traffic circles were good for about 10 or 12 years but then the area grew and the bridge and the circles just couldn't handle the flow.

You mention Tucson, I was talking with friends about what a pain Tucson is because of it's layout. It grew around Davis-Monthan AFB, main to the north and up against the Catalina Mountains, long before I-10 was built. When I-10 went through it was built on the west side of the city, and it never fails when any of us go to visit, the people usually live about 8 to 10 miles away from the freeway.



244 was actually rebuilt as was I44 from about Catoosa to the Arkansas River.
They're actively working on the surface streets but they take forever as each utility comes in, does their work, and repaves that section before the next utility comes in and does the same.
I'm glad they're doing the subsurface work as well but, they need a more efficient way of doing it.

I believe they're getting ready to start I44 from the river to 244 as well. That stretch is in real bad shape.

They've done a lot of work on 51 but it's been mostly resurfacing and bridge refurbishment/replacement. Same with 75 and 169.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 22, 2020, 12:23:14 pm
You also understand that people are moving away from freeways and interstates.   Look at the ruckus following the Eastern Oklahoma Turnpike (Kickapoo Turnpike) from south end SE 89th Street in Oklahoma City to North end I-44 / Turner Turnpike in Luther; resident claim they moved to the area to get away from the interstate system.   Wow, what a blow this was to them.

(https://i2.wp.com/www.lutherregister.news/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/2.-bigger-Eastern-Oklahoma-County-Turnpike-1-1.jpg?resize=600%2C405&ssl=1)

(https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/71596137_2630513123666244_3049625701570314240_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&_nc_sid=110474&_nc_ohc=gRTcwP48Z1IAX8iLGTN&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=4869f3e9c6b99569cee60f6a6ce3218c&oe=5F3C1E44)
The new flyover bridge will connect I-40 with the new Kickapoo Turnpike in eastern Oklahoma County.

Best of luck in Tulsa, both of Oklahoma's largest metro areas need road repairs on bridges, interchanges and general resurfacing of main roads--it's essential to our growth.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 22, 2020, 08:10:56 pm

Boeing expanding presence in OKC

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/Boeing_High_Bay_Addition.jpg)
Designed by Oklahoma City-based Guernsey and being constructed by Alberici, the $20 million, 60,770 square-foot addition will include a wing and fuselage from a retired U.S. Air Force B-52 bomber, allowing the company’s engineers to utilize it for hands-on form, fit and function testing.

Quote
This project and others at Boeing OKC will create openings for more than 300 engineers in 2020. This year, Boeing OKC has hired 190 engineers to date. 

"The high-bay addition will enable our talented engineers to do prototyping with a B-52, as well as real-time collaboration with our U.S. Air Force customer," said Nancy Anderson, Boeing OKC's vice president of aircraft modernization and modification. “It's the best of both worlds. We have models and we can now get access to an airplane.”

Boeing link:  https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/development/boeing-expanding-presence-in-okc/?utm_source=VeloCityEmail&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=IntAero&utm_content=Boeing7_17_20 (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/development/boeing-expanding-presence-in-okc/?utm_source=VeloCityEmail&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=IntAero&utm_content=Boeing7_17_20)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 22, 2020, 08:49:05 pm
     Artist Pete Beeman commissioned for Softball Hall of Fame piece

                        (https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/SOFTBALL.jpg)

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/Pete_Beeman.jpg)

Artist Pete Beeman:  https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/inside-okc/artist-pete-beeman-commissioned-for-softball-hall-of-fame-piece/ (https://www.velocityokc.com/blog/inside-okc/artist-pete-beeman-commissioned-for-softball-hall-of-fame-piece/)

Oklahoma City leaders know that arts and cultural investments make cities great places to live, to travel and study, and more attractive for economic development.

The office works with the Arts Commission, oversees the coordination of the 1% for Arts ordinance, guides stewardship of the public art collection, and facilitates cultural planning and implementation and the relationships between artists, cultural organizations, and other groups.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 23, 2020, 02:30:53 pm
                                   Tower with $100 million of recent renovations to go for $35.5 million.                                            

                                      (https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/large960_blur-d2beec0ecea67919cab9bd20565eaecb.jpg)

The Oklahoma Commissioners of the Land Office voted June 11 to purchase the SandRidge Tower for $35.5 million for use as a state office building, with closing on the purchase subject to a due diligence examination.  

Named SandRidge Commons, designers called the project unique in character and approach. The project spans two city blocks in the heart of downtown, demolition of four older buildings surrounding the former Kerr-McGee tower made room for construction of a new mid-rise and the reconstruction of Kerr Park.

DEQ relocation is not in the future plans of the tower.  In order for DEQ (Department of Environmental Quality) to relocate its offices to the Sandridge Tower, it would have needed to find space elsewhere for its laboratory.

The DEQ will not be among the offices to relocate to SandRidge Tower.  Oklahoma Tax Commission, Oklahoma State Tourism and Recreation Department and Oklahoma Department of Health were among the agencies lined up to move into the tower, and that other state agencies such as the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and Department of Mines are considering the move.

The Commissioners of the Land Office expects to operate the building much like a condo, with state agencies buying the floors they will occupy while paying the land office to maintain the building.

SandRidge Tower's parking garage and additional parking under and near the building will be included in the  Oklahoma Commissioners of the Land Office's purchase; it includes about 1,400 spaces.





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 24, 2020, 12:16:58 pm
                                   
Oklahoma City Convention Center Complex

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention072020f.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention072020h.jpg)

(http://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention072020b.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking070520a.jpg)
1,100 space convention center garage

 Construction picks via OKCTalk.com
Register & join the conversation:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=252&p=1131187&posted=1#post1131187 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=26179&page=252&p=1131187&posted=1#post1131187)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 26, 2020, 10:12:56 am
First Americans Museum, Oklahoma City

When the $175 million project is completed May 2021, it will provide visitors with a fully interactive museum experience that will teach about the many tribes now called First Americans.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-930b214c7f4ac11874b9d067ca938bff.jpg)

(https://www.liveauctioneers.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/PhotoCredit_Waystone_0669-1030x687.jpg)

(https://imageproxy.themaven.net/https%3A%2F%2Fs3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com%2Fmaven-user-photos%2Findiancountrytoday%2Fnews%2F8zojDmYqjkuA5Qj5-QAQPw%2FEZjsTiVthEqL_8Zi0SVRSA)

(https://freepressokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/DSC06602.jpg)

It was revived by a partnership between the city of Oklahoma City and the Chickasaw Nation in a deal that captured $25 million from the state, contingent on a private match, and provided the tribe an opportunity to develop 100 acres of property around the museum, which lies southeast of the I-35/40 crosstown interchange near downtown.[

The $175 million, 175,000-square-foot museum is designed to Smithsonian Institution standards. Features will include a Smithsonian and Tribal Nations galleries; artifacts from the Smithsonian collections will be displayed.








Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 26, 2020, 05:49:15 pm
Broadway Park in Automobile Alley, Oklahoma City

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/broadwaypark072620a.jpg)
1122 N. Broadway

Dubbed Broadway Place, the new structure would feature space for a 'table cloth' restaurant with outdoor seating on the fourth floor as well as an area on the rooftop for outdoor entertainment, parties and receptions.

The office space includes balconies for outdoor furniture and views of the downtown skyline.--OKCTalk.com  03-12-2016


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bplace.jpg)
More infill, with great downtown, Oklahoma City skyline view.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 28, 2020, 04:12:49 pm


(https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/12/03/world/03Priest/03Priest-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
29 years ago

                    Father Stanley Francis Rother (March 27, 1935 – July 28, 1981) was an American Roman Catholic priest from Oklahoma who was murdered in Guatemala.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: dbacksfan 2.0 on July 28, 2020, 05:15:51 pm

(https://static01.nyt.com/images/2016/12/03/world/03Priest/03Priest-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)
29 years ago

                    Father Stanley Francis Rother (March 27, 1935 – July 28, 1981) was an American Roman Catholic priest from Oklahoma who was murdered in Guatemala.

You may need to calibrate your flux capacitor, it should be 39 years ago.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 29, 2020, 09:10:41 am
You may need to calibrate your flux capacitor, it should be 39 years ago.

LOL.  Thanks for calling that to my attention.  I caught that on my way out and couldn't get to my computer in time to make changes because it was already in the maintenance stages.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 29, 2020, 10:04:49 am
(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-07-29/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F07%2F29&id=Pc0220600&ext=.jpg&ts=20200729092352)

(https://www.greateroklahomacity.com/clientuploads/images/190417+Kratos+Press+Conference-3586++JSV.jpg)

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/167_Heavy_Flight.jpg)


Kratos contract for five-years worth up to $400 million work in its OKC operation.

Kratos Defense and Security, the California-based company with an unmanned aviation manufacturing facility in Oklahoma City and offices in the Tulsa area just won a $400 million part of the Air Force’s futuristic Skyborg Vanguard Program; the company announced it won a five-year contract worth up to $400 million to develop a prototype air vehicle that would support the U.S. Air Force’s Skyborg program.  Kratos has manufacturing and production facilities located in Oklahoma City and in California. 

It has opened a new 100,000 square foot unmanned aerial system (UAS) production facility in the Will Rogers Business Park in Oklahoma City.

The company  specializes in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, combat systems and next generation turbojet and turbofan engine development.

Eric DeMarco, Kratos’ CEO, noted that affordability is becoming an ever-increasing important part of technology; he further emphasized “we are executing on our plan to be a disruptive leader providing affordable systems to our Department of Defense and national security partners and customer base which we work extremely closely with,” said DeMarco. “We believe that this plan is completely complementary to the Skyborg mission, and we look forward to supporting the Skyborg program for the USAF.”





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on July 29, 2020, 07:50:29 pm
                             Sonic opens first redesigned drive-in in Oklahoma

                    (https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxbusiness.com/foxbusiness.com/content/uploads/2020/07/1440/810/image.png?ve=1&tl=1)

Sonic Drive-in has planned to open the first of its new concept locations on the site of a recently demolished former Sonic at NW 23rd and Pennsylvania.



But the company decided the site was too small for the desired layout and instead focused on a location Talequah which just opened.

The property at N. W. 23rd and Pennsylvania in Oklahoma City is now up for sale.


PRESS RELEASE:


**************

On the heels of launching a new brand identity and advertising campaign in the spring, SONIC Drive-In recently unveiled the first drive-in of the brand’s new restaurant design – Delight. The updated look provides a fun and inviting space for guests to enjoy a moment of carefree bliss in their daily routine.

Located in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, the first of the newly designed drive-ins features 18 docks, a drive-thru and a covered outdoor patio, where guests can dine under string lights and enjoy lawn games.



The exterior of the drive-in highlights SONIC’s new brand identity with pops of red, blue and a bit of yellow, reminding guests that summertime is a feeling, not just a season. The new design also pays homage to SONIC’s signature beverages, with a large, brightly-lit cherry placed atop the building as a nod to the more than 9 million Cherry Limeades enjoyed at its drive-ins across the country each year.

Inside the drive-in, a brand-new kitchen layout enables teams to operate more efficiently, delivering on the brand’s original slogan of “service at the speed of sound.” That quick service is amplified by SONIC’s Mobile Order Ahead platform, allowing guests to take advantage of contactless ordering and payment.

The updated design will also translate seamlessly to previous formats and footprints as SONIC grows its presence across the U.S., and internationally. Already, several SONIC franchisees currently building or remodeling their locations have taken advantage of this new design.

The second restaurant in the new design is under construction in Fort Worth, Texas, and expected to open in July.


                        This design looks similar to the retrofit designs of the late 90s

                              
Quote
The license fee for a non-traditional Sonic restaurant is $22,500, with a total investment ranging from $361,900 to $978,700 (excluding land). The term of a SONIC franchise ranges from 10 to 20 years, plus a 10-year renewal option.


Sonic Corporate Office
300 Johnny Bench Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73104


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on July 31, 2020, 03:48:14 pm
                            Sonic opens first redesigned drive-in in Oklahoma


The second restaurant in the new design is under construction in Fort Worth, Texas, and expected to open in July.



Sonic Corporate Office
300 Johnny Bench Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73104



I have a novel idea for Sonic;   Hey, Sonic, get your food right!   Don't worry about the building - Hank's does great in a real dump of a shop because of the food!  Instead of the carp that is now at the end of a long slide you have been in for years!

Pay some attention to what is actually ordered!   The "joke", which really isn't a joke, but more reality, is you go to Sonic, give them your money and they will bring you what they want you to have!

Get the drinks right!   Like QuikTrip, the fountain drinks have been on a downward slide for a long time.  And IF you are gonna define a recipe - specifically for Route 44 Cherry limeade - train the people and get management to actually follow the recipe!  Two of the grandkids in different states worked at Sonic in high school.  The R 44 "recipe" called for 4 cherries.   I have not gotten more than 1 cherry in over 10 years.  And about 1/3 of the time, there are none.  It has been since the 70's since they got it right.  This is at Sonics in Oologah, St Louis, Broken Arrow, several in Tulsa.  Everywhere.

And the chicken nuggets...blech!






Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 02, 2020, 01:12:27 pm

OU Health Patient Tower's $364 million construction update

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/healthsciences080220b.jpg)

One of the largest hospital expansion projects in the nation and the largest hospital expansion project in Oklahoma history, the OU Medicine patient bed tower, is coming into the skyline. Construction started in November 2017 and the $364 million, 456,000-square-foot tower is slated to be finished in 2020

Pic via OKCTalk.com

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-61af4cbbbf452b6430c91e11f75db81d.jpg)
Home to Oklahoma's only Level One Trauma Center.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 04, 2020, 08:46:08 pm
Agreement to modernized water and sewer systems at TAFB authorized by OKC council.


(https://wanderingisite.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/TinkerAFB_OK1995.jpg)
(AKA the mile building.)

A proposal to have Oklahoma City take over water service is designed to strengthen the well established relationship between the city and Tinker AFB with expansion plans for the next five to seven years.

Over the next 16 years, a $130 million investment will be needed to meet Tinker's needs in coming decades.  A transition with more than a dozen benchmarks to meet requirements is expected to take about one year.
(https://photos.zillowstatic.com/cc_ft_576/ISnudtq2r3mr401000000000.jpg)
Lake Overholser Dam
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/af/North_Canadian_River_Yukon_Oklahoma.jpg)
North Canadian River

Oklahoma City would provide basic utility services which includes engineering, emergency repairs and leak detection which serves about 1.4 million people in the region with surface water stored in six reservoirs (North Canadian River, Canton, Overholser and Hefner lakes in OKC and water from Oklahoma's McGee Creek and Atoka reservoirs is pumped 100 miles via the Atoka pipeline to Stanley Draper Lake in southeast Oklahoma City.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 05, 2020, 03:38:29 pm
Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT)

Plans to widen I-40, six lanes from Oklahoma City to Shawnee.


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-08-05/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F08%2F05&id=Pc0010200&ext=.jpg&ts=20200805094711)

The first phase of the $77 million, 7.5-mile project is expected to begin in 2022; plans call for the middle 2.2 miles of the project to be built first, followed by the west 2.5 miles, which is to begin in 2023, and the east 2.7 miles of the project, which is to begin in 2026--toward Shawnee.

(https://media-cdn.tripadvisor.com/media/photo-s/08/41/26/79/grand-casino-hotel.jpg)

Grand Casino & Hotel Resort, Shawnee

Construction will take several years as the I-40 corridor should be six lanes all the way from I-240 on the east edge of Oklahoma City to U.S. 177 in Shawnee.  Design plans call for a roundabout to be built on each side of interstate, where the I-40 on and off ramps intersect with McLoud Road.  The third and final roundabout would be built on the north side of the interstate where plans call for a two-way frontage road to be built from McLoud Road east 2 miles to the south leg of State Highway 102, which travels through the Grand Casino Hotel & Resort property which offers 262 rooms on 14 floors with layouts including Kings, Double Queens, Suites, and VIP Floor.

​.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 07, 2020, 02:02:14 pm

(https://okcfriday.com/clients/okcfriday/sports-oge-energy-field-upgrade-2.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/lead630-4a7c5f2b890830e84f1864a148c43c66.jpg)

USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex Renovations https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Softball/USA-Softball-Hall-of-Fame-Complex/OGE-Energy-Field-Renovations (https://www.teamusa.org/USA-Softball/USA-Softball-Hall-of-Fame-Complex/OGE-Energy-Field-Renovations)

(https://okcfriday.com/clients/okcfriday/sports-oge-energy-field-upgrade-3.jpg)


Construction crews have completed the new media center and press box, adding suites and a 4,800-seat expansion as a part of the overall addition to the stadium. The upper deck will provide more shelter against rain covering the expanded concourse below. Total expansion & renovation costs totaled $28 million of which $21 million was paid for thru OKC 2017 bonds; the rest thru donations.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 09, 2020, 04:48:34 pm
Oklahoma City's Blue Zoo Aquarian  at Quail Springs Mall

Now open...



The OKC Blue Zoo Aquarian will occupy 22,800 square feet on two levels, connected by a staircase and elevator.  

Blue Zoo, an interactive aquarium, is opening in Oklahoma City in July! Boasting such aquatic life as sharks, eels, jellyfish, seahorses and an octopus, Blue Zoo has over 200 species of marine life. Looking for fun things to do in Oklahoma City? Blue Zoo guests will be able to touch and feed stingrays, birds and reptiles and offers family fun with a Water Cycle Play Table, STEM Water Play Table and a Pirate Play Ship! Wanting even more fun? Check out the Pirate, Mermaid and Dive Shows and Shark Feedings! With an emphasis on education, Blue Zoo will combine fun, interactive experiences, with an opportunity to learn about animals from all over the world. Field trips are a great way for kids to get up close and personal with aquatic life and birthday parties provide fun, family entertainment at affordable prices. Located at Quail Springs Mall, the aquarium is taking over 8 spaces and 2 floors for fun, all year long!


  
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/55/02/2f/55022f1c23eda93f5badf5c6a9055f32.jpg)

(https://static-28.sinclairstoryline.com/resources/media/4e46dc3e-f163-4ebe-b34d-b77608b31be2-large16x9_BlueZooOKC.jpg?1572451180695)


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bluezoo8.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/bluezoo12.jpg)

Blue Zoo, guests will be able to touch and feed stingrays, birds and reptiles, see sharks, clownfish, seahorses, jellyfish, an octopus and touch starfish and urchins, among others. Additionally, there will be water play tables and a large pirate play structure as well as Pirate and Mermaid shows.

Blue Zoo recently announced that Annual Passes are on Sale with Early Bird Pricing that is 30% off regular prices. Wes shares that he created annual passes for an unlimited number of visits for families that are looking for fun things to do in Oklahoma City, all year long.

Annual Pass Holders also receive 10% off Birthday Parties and entrance into the Aquarium two days before the general public when they open this Summer. For more information, visit Blue Zoo at www.bluezoo.us and use promo code BZSITE to receive a 30% discount!




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 10, 2020, 08:39:55 am


Oklahoma City's Bricktown Canal Riverwalk.


(http://digital.newsok.com/Olive/ODN/Oklahoman/get/DOK-2020-08-10/image.ashx?kind=block&href=DOK%2F2020%2F08%2F10&id=Pc0030300&ext=.jpg&ts=20200810084238)

“That is probably the best $12 million we’ve ever spent.”— Former Oklahoma City Mayor Ron Norick, remarking on the $12.3 million spent by MAPS to build the Bricktown canal. Norick reviewed the origins of MAPS last week for the MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board, which was having its second meeting. Original drawings showed the canal on Reno Avenue but Norick said he was in Bricktown one day with an engineering consultant looking over E California Avenue and, “I said, let’s put it here.” They did, digging one story below street level to activate basements of historic buildings lining the canal. Nowadays it is tough “to find the 40% who said no” in that first MAPS vote in 1993, Norick said.--Oklahoman, August 10, 2020



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 10, 2020, 03:34:45 pm

Oklahoma City Convention Center Garage

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/omniparking080920a.jpg)

Finishing touches are being applied to the $23 million, 1,100 space garage that will serve the new Oklahoma City Convention Center, Omni Oklahoma City 605 room hotel and several other area entities.  The garage is on schedule to be finished November 2020.

The Omni Hotel is expected to receive 220 spaces and, at $104.50 per month for each space, the city anticipated collecting $275,880 annually, needed to pay down debt on the garage.  Omni added 230 basement parking spaces to the hotel giving it access to a total of 450 parking spaces.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 12, 2020, 01:57:02 pm
Oklahoma City Bricktown Events Center being repurposed.

Cowboy Ranch


(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/proxy/v7iXoc9ol7UvnIsy5jzarKzfJAlaeHiHxZL0m083Z5fgtOmh8GKg2FdJ1snC04i2xNM7VV4Gx-X_aTh4GNEp3z-UCRDCEZGWgGWS4x8Czsz9CXX4PhsLM5PvDBA2oMmslCBYD7-wlkEtM3pW)

     27,000 SF of Pure Party Space
    Non Smoking Venue with a Smoking Room
    Huge Dance Floor
    Six fully Stocked Bars
    Full Late Night Food Menu
    Live Music Nightly
    Touring Acts 1-2 Times a Month
    Mechanical Bull Riding
    Pool Tables & Games
    The Best Sound System in The State
    Unmatched Lighting, Decor & Astmosphere.


(https://scontent-dfw5-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/113811449_105854281214104_1930003515373384106_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&_nc_sid=6e5ad9&_nc_ohc=wmuvTGXKrksAX9rRlXh&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.xx&oh=52d1e22e081655de8d307481c9cc062d&oe=5F5932BA)

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/Bricktown_2017-29.jpg)

  
               Cowboy Ranch  https://www.facebook.com/%F0%9D%90%82%F0%9D%90%A8%F0%9D%90%B0%F0%9D%90%9B%F0%9D%90%A8%F0%9D%90%B2-%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%9A%F0%9D%90%A7%F0%9D%90%9C%F0%9D%90%A1-105852874547578 (https://www.facebook.com/%F0%9D%90%82%F0%9D%90%A8%F0%9D%90%B0%F0%9D%90%9B%F0%9D%90%A8%F0%9D%90%B2-%F0%9D%90%91%F0%9D%90%9A%F0%9D%90%A7%F0%9D%90%9C%F0%9D%90%A1-105852874547578)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 13, 2020, 09:42:55 am
Amazon plans two more facilities in Oklahoma City

Seattle based company will double its presence in OKC.

     OKCTalk.com reported on the 4th Amazon facility last month, a 1 million square foot distribution center just north of the 2.5 million distribution facility they
     opened this past summer.          

Now there are plans for two more delivery facilities:
(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazonsw1.jpg)

          A 121,700 square feet facility at SW 44th and MacArthur in the vicinity of the mammoth 2.5 million square foot Amazon Distribution Center and the planned
          1 million foot facility adjacent venue near Lariat Landing at Will Rogers Airport Development.  

     The area is a highly industrialized complex of warehouses and distribution centers in South Oklahoma City.

     A 146,000 operation at 6801 S. Air Depot north of the converted GM Plant (Tinker Aerospace Complex) just west of Tinker Air Force Base.

(https://42floors.com/images/H6b29297d045a2ad35a2f262808a54cc3ee9578d8S780x520W0seB505153O/82a9400179e7c65f3de317ba2eadd1797ae04f0c)
6801 South Air Depot, Oklahoma City

Amazon's impact on Oklahoma City:

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazon072420i.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/amazon072420j.jpg)
Above graphics via of OKCTalk.com


    


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 14, 2020, 01:06:43 pm

Oklahoma City focuses on parks improvements & renovations.

Oklahoma City voters recently approved the $978 million MAPS 4 initiative of which $140 million will be dedicated toward improvements of all city parks.   Here is a glimpse of two parks that are proposing renovations:

               Mesta Park

(https://s3.amazonaws.com/gs-waymarking-images/bc3e0d66-b355-4b67-af36-2de10df418e7_d.JPG)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/mesta1.jpg)

                Manuel Perez Park

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/manuel_perez_3.jpg)

(https://freepressokc.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Manuel-Perez-Park.png)





Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 14, 2020, 03:24:07 pm

Oklahoma City's Santa Fe and Union Station depots

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-33edf0c06cd765f61b997f30a1fc2ef0.jpg)
Santa Fe Station Depot
Oklahoma City spent $28.4 million in renovations for the Santa Fe Station art deco on the year-old train station as a key to the metro’s intermodal transit hub's future.
(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/original/2992387/santa-fe-station-main-entrance_dec-17_le-.jpg)


(https://live.staticflickr.com/1376/823046954_1494b5f447_z.jpg)
Union Station Depot
The Oklahoma City council approved spending $19 million to buy and renovate the station to incorporate it into the city's downtown Scissortail Park Complex along with improvements to
the park’s lower 30 acre section and a connection to the Oklahoma River.  Plans include restoring the former waiting areas for formal events, with banquet seating for 300 in one room and for 100 in the other.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960_blur-d4a6a77489125e42bcab34d86e41bb94.jpg)




Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 17, 2020, 08:05:19 am
Oklahoma City's '4th Street Experience.'

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/4th071220a.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/4thstreet081620a.jpg)

Nestled between the new Oklahoma City Convention Center and the new 605 room Omni Hotel (both under construction), the 4th Street Experience will provide a public space leading directly to the newly completed Scissortail Park.  

There is a skybridge that connects the Oklahoma City Convention Center to the 1,100 space Convention Center Garage that has topped out; now with the finishing touches (art decor & facade) being applied to that venue.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 17, 2020, 08:17:48 am
Construction Growth Pains

Robinson Avenue will undergo new construction.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention081620c.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/convention081620a.jpg)

Convention Center Complex

Robinson Avenue has been riddled with the activity of large construction vehicles as it has succumbed to the wear and tear in which Oklahoma City has put up a new $288 million convention center, $241 million, 605 room Omni Hotel & Resort while adding a $25 million 1,100 space Convention Center Garage to accommodate the venues that will support over $650 million in new downtown construction.  Robinson Avenue will begin total reconstruction as many of the venues in the area are over 85% complete in the construction stage.  

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195023777-GV4QL9JEPRVHJ5DQJVD5/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kOyTfLZiV2PNjKdnQQRsBpRZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE-7XRK3dMEBRBhUpzojtLi4ukUfwdiFkPMXrokEhqAAZAnnueEmL1xJbPDPUCndo7ocswNI1K7i2iGLUs/537EV-west+edited.jpg?format=2500w)

The fate of the current Cox Convention Center has yet to be determined.  City leaders have acknowledged that its potential use may be needed as an over flow venue to provide support for the new convention center which will include a 200,000 square foot exhibition hall.  The Cox Center has a 100,000 square foot exhibition hall along with a host of meeting rooms that could be used simultaneously to attract conventions & trade shows to the area.  The Cox Center has 963 underground parking spaces beneath along with 805 at the Sheraton Hotel, Santa Fe Garage (1,518),  Main Street (1,100), Courtyard by Marriott (400) and the 1,100 space parking garage under construction will boasts convention center complex parking to 5,500 spaces within walking distance of the convention center complex.  Hotel rooms in the area will swell to over 3,200 with over 4,500 total hotels in some stage of development & construction in the area.

Note:  The current Covid-19 Pandemic has put on hold or slowed the progress of many area projects.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 19, 2020, 12:54:59 pm
EMSA (Emergency Medical Services Authority) will relocate to South Oklahoma City.

    
(https://images1.loopnet.com/i2/GJk8RLiDHxgWfUhpy5_lchF1FwKDOV_SUIkYVAC8xYY/112/image.jpg)

    Google MAPS:  https://www.google.com/maps/place/6205+S+Sooner+Rd,+Oklahoma+City,+OK+73135/@35.403469,-97.424785,169m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x87b23e17d5214643:0xd317219f8cff8a40!8m2!3d35.4034694!4d-97.4247848?hl=en-US (https://www.google.com/maps/place/6205+S+Sooner+Rd,+Oklahoma+City,+OK+73135/@35.403469,-97.424785,169m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x87b23e17d5214643:0xd317219f8cff8a40!8m2!3d35.4034694!4d-97.4247848?hl=en-US)

     EMSA wil be moving into two buildings, 84,000 square feet each, on eight acres that encompass a total of 160,000 sq., ft, of covered space.  The buildings
     include existing offices and warehouse space that can be converted into garage space for the ambulances and mechanical work.

    
(https://images1.loopnet.com/i2/AWqWfjH5d89Ner1L5DZRzBHjoTdHwLXtA1g-2tvAWqg/110/image.jpg)
   
     The current building across from SSM St. Anthony's Hospital in Midtown only has 19,720 total square feet and the garage which services the ambulances
     is located at 2323 South Walker Avenue (shown below) has only 12,243 total square feet.


    
(https://images1.loopnet.com/i2/WPkfRod-cf1eEBX5q7NlpECGhGr-yY8DJMUSAFK-ODk/110/image.jpg)

     EMSA (short for Emergency Medical Services Authority) is a public trust of the City of Tulsa and City of Oklahoma City that provides the two metros and
     several suburbs with ambulance service.  

     The eight acres also allows for future growth, the new site will allow all ambulances to be stored inside out of the elements, and is close to Interstates 35
     and Interstate 40; the new site on Sooner Road will allow mechanics and people working in the garage to work in air conditioned and heated space which
     the current site doesn't provide.

     The new site at 6205 South Sooner Road will provide for EMSA's future growth.

      


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 20, 2020, 12:37:19 pm

Hope Lodge, Oklahoma City


(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-9d341d230753d72f734956c081a29242.jpg)

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-bc3c0e5da90e0c72469d24c30e7e157f.jpg)

Construction is set to start this fall on an American Cancer Society Chad Richison Hope Lodge that will provide free lodging to cancer patients traveling to Oklahoma City for treatment.

The Chad Richison Hope Lodge, at 800 NE 7, will have 34 guest rooms, each with a private bathroom and small living area. Free, on-site parking will be available, as well as fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and common guest lounges and dining room.  

Credit Paycom founder and CEO Chad Richison with making the project a reality thanks to a $5 million donation.

Hope Lodge, Oklahoma City will be the only free lodging program available for adult cancer patients and their caregivers.

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/stephenson_cancer_center.jpg)

(https://medicine.ouhsc.edu/portals/1365/Assets/Images/Academic%20Departments/Otolaryngology/stephenson-cancer-center.jpg?ver=2020-03-10-113226-857)
Stephenson Cancer Center, Oklahoma City

The Stephenson Cancer Center received a prestigious designation reserved for the top two percent of cancer centers in the country.

National, state and local leaders joined the Stephenson Cancer Center at the University of Oklahoma to celebrate the center’s designation as a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Cancer Center. With this award, the Stephenson Cancer Center joins an elite group of 70 NCI-Designated Cancer Centers nationwide.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 21, 2020, 02:29:27 am

Oklahoma City's Route 66 Landing

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/66landing5.jpg)

The project has started as the Kilpatrick Turnpike is being expanded to the south of I-40 where it will ultimately connect with SH 152 and form a loop from I-35 in NE Oklahoma City and connect with Airport Road and I-44 in SW OKC. The extension is expected to spur more development along the corridor.--OKCTalk.com

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/66landing4.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/66landing3.jpg)
Ground has already been broken for the McGee building and the main road has been paved.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/route66061320a.jpg)
All pics courtesy of OKCTalk.com



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 21, 2020, 03:13:23 am
 
OKC's Inasmuch Foundation has committed $2.5 million to Crystal Bridge Conservatory upgrades...

(https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/fetch/c_fill,h_500,q_75,w_800/https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/crm/oklahoma/G00535360_5a9502ee-5056-a36a-063d9ea0d14cb5b6.jpg)

Crystal Bridge Conservatory

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/w620-4911b01602e5a6a1a008250e17ec0d0d.jpg)

Beautiful sites of the Gardens & Arboretum


(https://media1.fdncms.com/okgazette/imager/u/original/2976437/myriad-botanical-gardens-148mh.jpg)

(https://www.ojb.com/uploads/images/projects/MBG/_medium/ojb-myriad-botanical-gardens-12.jpg)

The Myriad Gardens (north) & central downtown Scissortail Park (south) are next door to each other.

August 20, 2020

Press release:

*********

Inasmuch Foundation makes lead gift to renovate Crystal Bridge at Myriad Botanical Gardens

Inasmuch Foundation has committed $2.5 million to the second phase of a capital campaign to renovate the Crystal Bridge Conservatory at Myriad Botanical Gardens. This phase features a complete renovation of the interior conservatory spaces to enhance visitor engagement with a more diverse plant collection, interactive educational exhibits, improved ADA accessibility, and a museum-quality gift shop.

The announcement was made today. The Visitor Center lobby of the Crystal Bridge was renovated as part of the first phase of the capital campaign and completed in 2018, made possible by a major gift from Devon Energy. Phase one also included renovation of lower-level classroom space for use by John Rex Middle School and a new horticulture classroom, funded by Inasmuch Foundation.

Since its opening in 1988, (pictured above) the Crystal Bridge Conservatory has remained largely unchanged. As the centerpiece of the Gardens, it is home to thousands of tropical and desert plants within 13,000 square feet, divided into two distinct climates: wet and dry. To see the history timeline visit here.

The forthcoming renovation will update aging infrastructure, allow for a more diverse plant collection with both permanent and rotating exhibits, as well as new and enhanced water elements, circulation paths and sitting areas. A terrace feature will overlook the conservatory and add much-needed educational programming and venue space. Improved accessibility, including an elevator, will enable people of all ages and physical abilities to fully enjoy the space.

“The Crystal Bridge at Myriad Botanical Gardens is such a recognizable structure in downtown Oklahoma City,” said Bob Ross, chairman and CEO of Inasmuch Foundation. “Staff at the Gardens continually strive to create wonderful spaces and learning opportunities for Oklahoma City. When I learned of plans for reimagining the tropical plant conservatory to create a superb visitor experience, I knew Inasmuch Foundation would want to support this initiative. The second phase of the Crystal Bridge renovation capitalizes on the momentum of current downtown development.”

Maureen Heffernan, CEO of Myriad Gardens Foundation and Scissortail Park Foundation, said she appreciates the visionary leadership demonstrated by the Inasmuch Foundation and its major giving support.

“This gift enables Myriad Botanical Gardens to significantly improve our Conservatory experience so it is as transformational as the outdoor renovation was completed in 2011. An updated and more engaging Conservatory will help attract visitors from all of the major downtown development near the Gardens including Scissortail Park and the Convention Center and Omni Hotel. This investment will further strengthen the Gardens’ standing as one of the premier cultural attractions in Oklahoma City.”
Adds Jim Tolbert, Chair Emeritus of Myriad Gardens Foundation, “The interior of the Crystal Bridge has not been renewed since its opening. This visionary gift from Inasmuch Foundation will allow a vast enhancement of both its educational and visitor experience.”


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 25, 2020, 05:00:39 pm
Competitive NBA small market cities

Utah Jazz &  Oklahoma City Thunder are two of the NBA's smallest markets left in the 2020 NBA playoffs.

(https://www.upr.org/sites/upr/files/styles/medium/public/201409/Salt-Lake-City_Matt-Morgan.jpg)
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ef/ee/58/efee58287e5fe6bda09565415ccd76c3.png)
NBA Jazz relocated from New Orleans to SLC in 1978-79.  SLC vs Denver...

(https://www.msnbc.com/sites/msnbc/files/styles/ratio--3-2--1_5x-768x512/public/ap_309653665802.jpg?itok=J4zfXgnn)
(https://img.photobucket.com/albums/d131/supimnolan/oklahoma-city-thunder-wave.gif)
NBA Supersonics relocated from Seattle to OKC in 2008-09.  OKC vs Houston...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 26, 2020, 07:32:54 am
Midtown Development, Oklahoma City

The Boulevard, a new 2-story, 32,922 square foot mixed use retail, and office building will front both 11th and Dewey with parking behind.  The developer is the Midtown Renaissance group which owns much of the surrounding property, including Plaza Court to the south and most the buildings along Walker between NW 10th and 13th.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/midtownblvd1.jpg)

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevlard082320a.jpg)
The new development aligns along the streetcar route in the St. Anthony's Hospital area near the historic Kaiser's Ice Cream restaurant.

(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/boulevlard082320b.jpg)
Pics, courtesy of OKCTalk.com



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 26, 2020, 12:49:26 pm
Oklahoma City's Convention Centers' Flexibility

      Oklahoma City has the access to two arenas, one inside the Cox Convention Center and the other just across the street (south).  Is this a game-changer.

(https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5498cce2e4b044170dcb783b/1447195023777-GV4QL9JEPRVHJ5DQJVD5/ke17ZwdGBToddI8pDm48kOyTfLZiV2PNjKdnQQRsBpRZw-zPPgdn4jUwVcJE1ZvWQUxwkmyExglNqGp0IvTJZUJFbgE-7XRK3dMEBRBhUpzojtLi4ukUfwdiFkPMXrokEhqAAZAnnueEmL1xJbPDPUCndo7ocswNI1K7i2iGLUs/537EV-west+edited.jpg?format=2500w)

     Cox Convention Center:
          Arena - 13,846 permanent seats for ice hockey, 14,005 basketball.
          100,000 sq.,ft., exhibition space
          A 25,000 sq. ft. ballroom
          21 meeting rooms


(https://www.abetterlifeokc.com/clientuploads/blog/ChesapeakeArenaEntrance.jpg)

(https://www.velocityokc.com/clientuploads/directory/super_blog/IMG_5618.jpg)


     New Oklahoma City Convention Center & Chesapeake Energy Arena:
          Arena - 15,152 ice hockey,18,203 basketball
          200,000 square feet of exhibit space
          30,000 sq.,ft., ballroom
          45,000 sq.,ft., of flexible meeting room space

A few more hotels in the downtown core will allow Oklahoma City invaluable space to simultaneously bid on larger conventions & trade shows throughout the year.

This is the edge OKC will have on many of its peer & competing cities; this alone is a concern for our sister city of Tulsa.

This is why you will see more effort to keep the Cox Convention Center & Arena because it could serve as an overflow venue; this puts OKC in contention to bid on more than one large meeting at a time.


(https://journalrecord.com/files/2019/04/Streetcar-at-Stop_0280mh-2.jpg)

Both convention centers are on the streetcar route.








Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 26, 2020, 09:09:03 pm
Tesla files building permit in Oklahoma City

Follow this developing thread on OKCTalk.com


(https://www.okctalk.com/images/pete/volvo3.jpg)

OKCTalk.com: https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45465&p=1135623#post1135623 (https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=45465&p=1135623#post1135623)



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsan on August 27, 2020, 04:50:18 am
Can this thread be moved or locked? It’s basically spam for Laramie’s favorite site and has nothing to do with Tulsa development/new business.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: AdamsHall on August 27, 2020, 09:11:29 am
Can this thread be moved or locked? It’s basically spam for Laramie’s favorite site and has nothing to do with Tulsa development/new business.

I'll take the other side of the argument.  I like seeing what is going on in OKC as I don't actively follow most of their developments.  I would vote to keep it open.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: rebound on August 27, 2020, 09:17:44 am
I'll take the other side of the argument.  I like seeing what is going on in OKC as I don't actively follow most of their developments.  I would vote to keep it open.

I just wish there was some way to turn off specific threads.  Not just this one, but there have been others that I really don't care about, and would like to eliminate from my "show unread posts" feed.  (I agree with Tulsan on this one as well.  While I'm not against hearing big news from OKC, Laramie tends to over-post on smaller stuff that is inconsequential to Tulsans.)


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 27, 2020, 10:59:12 am
Brighter Days await Oklahoma's future.

Tulsa and Oklahoma City will continue to benefit from companies like Amazon & Tesla because the State has also shown interest in supporting Oklahoma's two largest cities--our major cities in Oklahoma possess the economic engines to keep the state afloat until changes are made on the Federal level.

Hope to have more news on any developments that benefit Oklahoma during this unfortunate downturn we are experiencing as a result of the Pandemic and economic stalemate and decline of Oklahoma's 'energy sector.'  Yearning for the days that we can see some semblance of our pre-pandemic outlook where both of Oklahoma's top urban areas appeared to be on a roll.

Early signs of Tesla's building permit in OKC's Midtown is a small indication of where Tesla may be looking at properties in Oklahoma.  It was disappointing that Tesla didn't select Oklahoma where Tulsa would have been the hub of their operations.  Elon Musk will soon realize that Tulsa desirability is one he may have underestimated.

Both of our Urban & Metropolitan areas will benefit as we rebound.  When companies look at Oklahoma City; they also look at Tulsa where they will find an equally compelling picture of what Oklahoma has to offer and vice-versa.

The future of our state will depend on our Federal Government being able to lift up our country in a time of desperate need.  Right now, President Donald Trump is not the answer; he and Mitch McConnell will let the states go bankrupt where large privately operated firms will take advantage of what's left of the country if Trump is given four more years.  OUR WHOLE SYSTEM OF DEMOCRACY IS AT STAKE...

(https://www.conteches.com/Portals/0/Images/Gathering_Main2.jpg?ver=2018-12-05-124621-250)
The Gather Place, a mammoth $465 million 'jewel  of parks' in our country poised to shape Tulsa's future.

(https://cdn2.newsok.biz/cache/r960-896da7c40f01621b42e7b234369549aa.jpg)
Scissortail Park in downtown OKC where voters devoted $130 million to enhance OKC's quality of life.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsan on August 27, 2020, 11:11:13 am
Seriously can Laramie’s personal OKC blog be moved to “The Burbs” or “Other Tulsa Discussion”? It doesn’t belong on the Tulsa Development & New Businesses Board.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: LandArchPoke on August 27, 2020, 01:42:57 pm
Seriously can Laramie’s personal OKC blog be moved to “The Burbs” or “Other Tulsa Discussion”? It doesn’t belong on the Tulsa Development & New Businesses Board.

Agreed, it's beyond annoying given half the posts are repetitive or have nothing to do with real estate development. Then it's always in GIANT BOLD LETTERS and giant pictures. If he just posted normal updates off and on it'd be nice to see but it's become spam at this point.

I'd ask it be moved to either of those as well and keep this part of the site just for Tulsa discussions.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Laramie on August 28, 2020, 04:56:02 pm
Seriously can Laramie’s personal OKC blog be moved to “The Burbs” or “Other Tulsa Discussion”? It doesn’t belong on the Tulsa Development & New Businesses Board.


Agreed, it's beyond annoying given half the posts are repetitive or have nothing to do with real estate development. Then it's always in GIANT BOLD LETTERS and giant pictures. If he just posted normal updates off and on it'd be nice to see but it's become spam at this point.

I'd ask it be moved to either of those as well and keep this part of the site just for Tulsa discussions.



Please forgive me if I've angered so many posters, some of you of which I have enjoyed your posts; clearly this was not my intent.  My sincere apologies; I'll no longer post on this thread...


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Tulsan on August 28, 2020, 05:44:58 pm



Please forgive me if I've angered so many posters, some of you of which I have enjoyed your posts; clearly this was not my intent.  My sincere apologies; I'll no longer post on this thread...


I didn’t mean to sound angry, maybe just slightly annoyed. I, like most, come here for Tulsa news and this forum has a low volume of posts ... so your (daily) updates are always at the top of the most recent, and I don’t really care to have to filter through them.

You don’t have to stop posting, but maybe do a weekly summary so you’re not monopolizing the “Most Recent” part of this forum? If this website had a “Pete,” like OKCTalk he would have locked this or moved it a long time ago. We don’t have active admins so we have to self-regulate a bit. But we don’t want a regular poster to stop altogether.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: Red Arrow on August 28, 2020, 05:45:51 pm



Please forgive me if I've angered so many posters, some of you of which I have enjoyed your posts; clearly this was not my intent.  My sincere apologies; I'll no longer post on this thread...


I've worn progressive bifocal glasses for years but even I don't need 14 pt bold
I would actually like to hear how the electric powered, rides on steel rails with steel wheels streetcar is doing.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: LandArchPoke on August 28, 2020, 10:19:07 pm



Please forgive me if I've angered so many posters, some of you of which I have enjoyed your posts; clearly this was not my intent.  My sincere apologies; I'll no longer post on this thread...


As Tulsan said and others... there's just a better way to do it that doesn't come off so much like spam. Maybe a weekly update or only post big annoucements. Half of your posts have nothing to do with real estate or they're the same topic over and over. The giant font and giant photos make the thread very difficult and annoying to read. If you could make posts easier to read that'd be helpful.

You also started an OKC topic smack in the middle of the main Tulsa development where it didn't belong in the first place.

You could easily start a new topic in The Burbs sections which has discussions about cities outside of Tulsa or even in the Other section for topics that don't fit anywhere else. Up to you if you want to take the advice others are saying or if you just want to go away. If it was me, I'd just start a new topic in another area of the forum and make the posts easier to read but that's just my advice. As others have said, they'd like to see updates about stuff in OKC - we're just asking for you to do it in the appropriate space and focus on relevant real estate topics (like for example you've had several posts about the Catholic church unrelated to the one being built and the post about Salt Lake City and OKC in the NBA above that has little relevance for this part of the forum).


Title: Re: The "this has nothing to do with Tulsa" mega-post
Post by: Dspike on August 31, 2020, 08:51:59 am
"You also started an OKC topic smack in the middle of the main Tulsa development where it didn't belong in the first place."

To his credit, this thread didn't start as an OKC topic. It was about Ikea rumors in both Tulsa and OKC. Not sure how it drifted, but eventually somewhere renamed it to reflect the OKC-focus.

Generally agree with other posters that I skip this thread for the same reasons. Seems in good faith, but a weekly update on developments and how they help inform Tulsa development (i.e. OKC getting an Ikea would make it less likely Tulsa gets one) would be more appropriate for this forum.


Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on August 31, 2020, 09:23:00 am


I would actually like to hear how the electric powered, rides on steel rails with steel wheels streetcar is doing.


Saw it about 3 weeks ago and it looked very cool.  Quiet, smooth, and aesthetically pleasing.  Would love to see that here, with spurs out to the 'burbs.



Title: Re: OKC stuff (formerly IKEA rumor)
Post by: heironymouspasparagus on August 31, 2020, 09:40:17 am
Can this thread be moved or locked? It’s basically spam for Laramie’s favorite site and has nothing to do with Tulsa development/new business.


Nobody forcing you to read them.  And how would you know it is Laramie's favorite site if you weren't at least looking at it?   Can easily be ignored and it don't like the "clutter" on the notifications, click on it once then go to Show new replies and you are out of it.

Sometimes there is some interesting stuff to see in OKC.  Not as much as Tulsa, but at least they got brains enough to get a streetcar system!




Title: Re: The "this has nothing to do with Tulsa" mega-post
Post by: 918superboy on August 31, 2020, 01:46:57 pm
Hey Laramie, I enjoyed your OKC news as well. I don't follow any OKC news so this was a good way to see what was going on there! Hope this posting issue gets resolved, you had very informative posts.


Title: Re: The "this has nothing to do with Tulsa" mega-post
Post by: Dspike on August 31, 2020, 04:38:35 pm
Laramie started a new thread in the "Burbs" forum, which seems like a great way to keep this information on the board without dominating the "Tulsa developments" forum.

Here is the new thread: http://www.tulsanow.org/forum/index.php?topic=21872.0