Oklahoma City Convention Center

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 137 views

Introduction

The Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) program, initiated in the 1990s, played a pivotal role in revitalizing downtown Oklahoma City. This ambitious project aimed to transform the city's central business district into a vibrant, thriving hub of activity. Through a series of innovative projects, MAPS successfully revitalized downtown Oklahoma City, transforming it into the bustling metropolis it is today. In this article, we will explore five notable projects of the MAPS program that contributed significantly to the city's revitalization.

1. Myriad Botanical Gardens

The Myriad Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre park located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, was one of the first projects undertaken by the MAPS program. Completed in 2007, this stunning park features a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a children's garden. The gardens have become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Myriad Botanical Gardens have not only provided a beautiful green space for the community but have also served as a catalyst for further development in the area. The park's success has led to the construction of new residential and commercial properties, further revitalizing the downtown area.

2. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing, was another significant project undertaken by the MAPS program. Completed in 2000, this poignant memorial features a reflecting pool, a field of empty chairs, and a museum that tells the story of the tragedy. The memorial has become a powerful symbol of hope and resilience, attracting visitors from around the world.

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum has not only served as a tribute to the victims of the bombing but has also played a crucial role in the city's healing process. The memorial has become an integral part of Oklahoma City's identity, serving as a reminder of the city's strength and resilience in the face of tragedy.

3. Oklahoma City Convention Center

The Oklahoma City Convention Center, a state-of-the-art facility located in the heart of downtown, was a key project undertaken by the MAPS program. Completed in 2008, this 600,000-square-foot convention center features a 250,000-square-foot exhibit hall, a 30,000-square-foot ballroom, and a 10,000-square-foot outdoor plaza. The convention center has become a major hub for business and entertainment in Oklahoma City, hosting numerous conferences, conventions, and events.

The Oklahoma City Convention Center has not only provided a world-class facility for the city but has also served as a catalyst for economic growth. The convention center has attracted numerous businesses and organizations to the area, further revitalizing the downtown district.

4. Oklahoma City Streetcar System

The Oklahoma City Streetcar System, a 2.5-mile streetcar line that connects the city's central business district to the Oklahoma Health Center, was another significant project undertaken by the MAPS program. Completed in 2018, this modern streetcar system features 22 stops and a fleet of 11 streetcars. The streetcar system has become a convenient and environmentally friendly way for residents and visitors to navigate the city.

The Oklahoma City Streetcar System has not only provided a convenient mode of transportation for the city but has also served as a catalyst for further development in the area. The streetcar system has led to the construction of new residential and commercial properties, further revitalizing the downtown area.

5. Oklahoma City Riverfront

The Oklahoma City Riverfront, a 30-acre park located along the North Canadian River, was a key project undertaken by the MAPS program. Completed in 2018, this stunning park features a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a children's play area. The riverfront has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a beautiful green space for recreation and relaxation.

The Oklahoma City Riverfront has not only provided a beautiful green space for the community but has also served as a catalyst for further development in the area. The riverfront has led to the construction of new residential and commercial properties, further revitalizing the downtown area.

Conclusion

Introduction

The Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) program has been instrumental in revitalizing downtown Oklahoma City, transforming the city's central business district into a vibrant, thriving hub of activity. As the city continues to grow and evolve, we've received numerous questions about the MAPS program and its impact on downtown Oklahoma City. In this article, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions about the MAPS program and downtown Oklahoma City revitalization.

Q: What is the MAPS program?

A: The Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) program is a public-private partnership that aimed to revitalize downtown Oklahoma City through a series of innovative projects. The program was initiated in the 1990s and has since become a model for urban renewal and development.

Q: What were the main goals of the MAPS program?

A: The main goals of the MAPS program were to:

Revitalize downtown Oklahoma City through the construction of new buildings, parks, and public spaces
Create a vibrant, thriving hub of activity in the city's central business district
Attract new businesses, residents, and visitors to the area
Improve the overall quality of life for Oklahoma City residents

Q: What are some of the notable projects undertaken by the MAPS program?

A: Some of the notable projects undertaken by the MAPS program include:

The Myriad Botanical Gardens
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The Oklahoma City Convention Center
The Oklahoma City Streetcar System
The Oklahoma City Riverfront

Q: How has the MAPS program impacted downtown Oklahoma City?

A: The MAPS program has had a significant impact on downtown Oklahoma City, transforming the city's central business district into a vibrant, thriving hub of activity. The program has:

Attracted new businesses, residents, and visitors to the area
Improved the overall quality of life for Oklahoma City residents
Created a sense of community and identity for the city
Provided a model for urban renewal and development

Q: What is the current status of the MAPS program?

A: The MAPS program was completed in 2018, with the final project being the Oklahoma City Riverfront. While the program is no longer active, its impact on downtown Oklahoma City continues to be felt. The city is now focused on maintaining and improving the public spaces and infrastructure created by the MAPS program.

Q: How can I get involved in downtown Oklahoma City revitalization efforts?

A: There are several ways to get involved in downtown Oklahoma City revitalization efforts:

Attend city council meetings and express your opinions on downtown development
Join local organizations and advocacy groups focused on downtown revitalization
Participate in community events and festivals
Volunteer for local non-profits and community groups
Support local businesses and entrepreneurs

Q: What is the future of downtown Oklahoma City?

A: The future of downtown Oklahoma City is bright, with continued growth and development expected in the coming years. The city is focused on maintaining and improving the public spaces and infrastructure created by the MAPS program, while also exploring new opportunities for development and innovation.

Q: How can I learn more about the MAPS program and downtown Oklahoma City revitalization?

A: There are several resources available to learn more about the MAPS program and downtown Oklahoma City revitalization:

Visit the City of Oklahoma City's website for information on downtown development and revitalization efforts
Attend city council meetings and community events
Join local organizations and advocacy groups focused on downtown revitalization
Read local news and publications for updates on downtown development and revitalization efforts

Conclusion

The MAPS program has been instrumental in revitalizing downtown Oklahoma City, transforming the city's central business district into a vibrant, thriving hub of activity. As the city continues to grow and evolve, it's essential to stay informed about the MAPS program and downtown Oklahoma City revitalization efforts. By getting involved and staying engaged, you can help shape the future of downtown Oklahoma City and ensure its continued success.