The controversial billion-dollar Norman Entertainment District gets the go-ahead from the Norman City Council after an evening-long public hearing.
The entertainment district would be located in between I-335, West Rock Creek Road, Max Westheimer Airport and West Tecumseh Road.
The Council voted 5-to-4 to let the project proceed. It will be paid for with funds including money from a tax-increment financing district using sales and ad valorem tax revenue.
The district will include an arena, office and retail space and a hotel. Construction must start by January 1, 2026, and be finished by December 31, 2029.
OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. said, “Tonight’s vote represents a historic moment in Norman’s history. 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. The entire OU family is grateful to the City Council for its leadership, vision, and vote of support. We are also thankful to all the countless citizens who worked so hard to make this project happen. Tonight’s vote was an important milestone, and we look forward to continuing to work in close partnership with government and business leaders from Norman and Cleveland County to move this project to completion.”
OU Vice President and Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione said, “Tonight, we saw strong leadership when our city needed it most. This was indeed a vote for a transformative opportunity for the City of Norman and Cleveland County. OU has made it known that we want to be a great partner in the growth of our community, and now with the synergy of our membership in the SEC and this innovative district, we can reap the additional benefits of thousands of new fans visiting Norman, many for the very first time, as well as have a venue that can attract more people to our area for other events. 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. Our sincere thanks go to Mayor Heikkila and the rest of the Norman City Council for leading us to a brighter future.”