A coalition of business and civic leaders in Norman has announced plans for a billion-dollar mixed-use development. The Norman Economic Development Coalition (NEDC) unveiled the details earlier this week.

The project includes a state-of-the-art entertainment and sporting venue, retail shops, restaurants, bars, offices, a hotel and housing for thousands. The development is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and transform the city's economic landscape. It’s the result of a partnership between the NEDC, the University of Oklahoma, the City of Norman, Cleveland County, the Norman Chamber, VisitNorman and the Norman business community.  

"It is rare to have such a collaborative effort to produce a master plan, combining resources and assets to create a unique mixed-use development unlike any in Oklahoma – or the nation, for that matter,” said NEDC President Lawrence McKinney. “Once developed, this entertainment district will be a focal point for all of central Oklahoma."

The proposed development will be located at Rock Creek Road and 24th Avenue NW. At its heart will be a multi-purpose performance venue designed to host a wide range of events, including concerts, shows, OU basketball games and women's gymnastics competitions. Adjacent to the performance venue will be an outdoor plaza and an entertainment district with the potential to create a significant number of new jobs.

OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. said the university is excited to be the district’s first anchor tenant.

"OU is proud to be a part of this broad coalition of leaders who are coming together to help grow the Norman economy and provide new opportunities for local residents,” said Harroz. “This new district will be the perfect complement to Campus Corner and historic Downtown Norman. These enhancements will elevate our community's unique entertainment options and improve the quality of life for residents of Norman and the broader region."

The development's design emphasizes density, diversity and walkability through multi-family and single-family housing, allowing thousands of residents to live within walking distance of shopping, entertainment, social gatherings, and job opportunities.

Norman Mayor Larry Heikkila underscored the importance of this development.

"Our citizens have made it clear that quality of life is important to them, and in fact, quality of life is essential for any healthy community, so we are delighted at the prospect of creating a new district that will build on the great assets we already have in Norman," said Heikkila.

The NEDC Coalition said approximately 80% of the project's $1 billion cost will be covered by private investment. The remaining 20% would come from public sources. The NEDC said none of the funds would come from city or county general funds.

Norman Chamber President Scott Martin highlighted the district’s economic potential.

"This mixed-use entertainment district will be one of a kind in Oklahoma, and it will further elevate our reputation as the place to live, work, and play,” said Martin. “The proposed development is also located next to the state's most visited shopping district and will further enhance economic development and job creation in Norman."

The proposal also includes a potential weather museum and the possibility of airport access from the west side of Max Westheimer Airport, pending the results of an ongoing feasibility study.