Green light for new Oklahoma Uni arena

Image: Norman City Council and Oklahoma Sooners

Plans to create a $1 billion entertainment district that would be the future home of a new University of Oklahoma arena have been given the green light by Norman City Council.

Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university in Norman, Oklahoma, US.

The Oklahoma Voice said the Rock Creek Entertainment District will be the centerpiece for a new arena that will be home to the Sooners’ basketball and gymnastics programs.

The new arena is expected to include 8,000 seats for basketball games and gym meets, with the possibility of additional seats for other events.

The current basketball arena – Lloyd Noble Center – has a capacity of 10,967. It has been the home for Sooners’ basketball since it opened in 1975 and is in need to replacement. It will be used as a practice facility and for other university events in the future.

Image: Norman City Council and Oklahoma Sooners

The university has pledged $100 million of the estimated $330 million arena construction costs.

However, the entertainment district plan has come under scrutiny from local residents who question whether it is a sound investment and if it would harm local school funding.

Opponents are also voicing concerns about why Norman residents, not the university, are footing most of the bill for a new university sports arena.

City leaders want to pay for the project using two Tax Increment Financing, TIF, districts — one that relies on sales tax and the other property taxes.

In addition to the new OU arena, officials promised the Rock Creek Entertainment District project plan would create a mixed-use district that includes retail, hotels, residential housing and office space.

Image: Norman City Council and Oklahoma Sooners

After the scheme was given the go-ahead, OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. said the vote was a historic moment in Norman’s history, adding the “entire OU family” is grateful the council approved the project.

Harroz said, “A large coalition came together to support this initiative that will create thousands of new jobs, more housing and exciting new entertainment options for our residents that will help make Norman a destination city.

“This was indeed a vote for a transformative opportunity for the City of Norman and Cleveland County.”

OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione added, “We’re endlessly thankful for the opportunity to have an environment where we can put Sooner Magic on full display, showing our state and region all Oklahoma has to offer. The district and arena will do wonders for our ability to compete and win.”

Image: Norman City Council and Oklahoma Sooners

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