New Coliseum ‘Making Really Great Progress,’ Former OKC Mayor Says. Here’s When It’ll be Finished
The construction of the much-anticipated OG&E Coliseum at the OKC Fairgrounds is swiftly moving towards completion, with an update revealing that the project is nearly 70% finished. Envisioned as a central hub for numerous events in Oklahoma City, the coliseum is set to open its doors to the public in mid-2025. This project, forming a part of the extensive MAPS 4 program, promises to be a significant milestone, blending modern facilities with the rich heritage of the city.
Funded by a local one-cent sales tax that was approved by voters as part of a broader $1.1 billion multi-project initiative, the $126 million construction of the 216,164-square-foot venue demonstrates Oklahoma City’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure and entertainment offerings. City leaders and members of the MAPS 4 venue subcommittee recently had the opportunity to tour the facility, witnessing first-hand the progress that has taken shape since construction began last February.
Ron Norick, who served as the mayor of Oklahoma City from 1987 to 1998, expressed his enthusiasm about the developments. Having visited the site earlier in May, he noted significant advancements, particularly in the areas of plumbing, electrical work, and interior finishes. Norick highlighted the importance of the new coliseum not only as a modern venue for events but also as a tribute to the legacy of his father, Jim Norick, after whom the current arena is named.
The existing Jim Norick Arena has been a cornerstone for Oklahoma City, attracting over 250 event days a year, including renowned horse shows, music events, and sports championships. With the old arena nearing its 60th anniversary by the time the new coliseum opens, there’s a shared understanding of the need for renewal, something even Jim Norick himself agreed with before his passing in 2015.
According to plans, by mid-2025, the coliseum will achieve full completion. Architects from Populous and workers from Flintco have been diligently working towards making this vision a reality, with expectations for the venue to appear finished as early as February of the same year. However, some interior works and installations will continue to ensure the coliseum is fully equipped to host a wide array of events.
Following the opening of the new coliseum, the next steps include the demolition of the old arena and the construction of a promenade that will connect the new coliseum with the Super Barn. This connector, expected to take about 18 months to complete, is planned to feature a warmup pen, an exhibit space for vendors, and full climate control, making it a versatile addition to the fairgrounds.
The new coliseum stands as a testament to the enduring impact of the MAPS program, first introduced by Norick in the early ’90s as a means to revitalize Oklahoma City during a period of economic downturn. The program, which began with a focus on infrastructure and quality of life improvements, has since evolved with strong public support, leading to hopes and discussions about a potential MAPS 5 initiative.
Norick’s vision, which has been carried forward by successors, underscores a collective drive to enhance Oklahoma City’s landscape continuously. The commitment to this vision, shared by leaders and residents alike, signifies a unified approach to urban development and improvement, ensuring the city’s progress for generations to come.
As the new coliseum nears completion, anticipation builds for the next chapter in Oklahoma City’s story of transformation and growth, with the OG&E Coliseum poised to become a beacon of community pride and a venue for creating countless new memories.
