The "this has nothing to do with Tulsa" mega-post

[SXSW]

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.

[Laramie]

 

Women's College World Series:  Monday, June 3, 2019

 Bricktown In Oklahoma City:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VU3uO_1P6mg

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

[Laramie]

                             



2019 Women's College World Series: Schedule

               

               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

               

[swake]

                             



2019 Women's College World Series: Schedule

               

               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

               

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.

[BKDotCom]

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.

[heironymouspasparagus]

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. 

[Laramie]

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.

[Laramie]

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.

[Laramie]

View the discussion @OKCTalk.com:  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.

[Laramie]

 

Bank First Tower


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


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.

"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%.

[Laramie]

An ambitious 2020 MAPS 4 referendum could be placed before Oklahoma City voters...




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):




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

[Laramie]

 

Progress on the new OKC Convention Center & Omni Hotel complex...


OG&E Data Center's gold building has been removed to make room for CC Garage (above, lower center).


Pics via OKCTalk Forum.

[Laramie]

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

[Laramie]

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.



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.


               New seven story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems



             



View or join the discussion on OKCTalk Forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5

[swake]

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.



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.


               New seven story headquarters for Heartland Payment Systems



             



View or join the discussion on OKCTalk Forum:  https://www.okctalk.com/showthread.php?t=44065&page=5

That is a seriously ugly building. Damn.