4 days ago
Oklahoma City mayor reveals new Thunder arena
A rendering of the exterior of the new Oklahoma City arena. (Photo Courtesy of Manica Architecture)
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City's mayor on Wednesday gave the public a first look at the future Oklahoma City Thunder arena.
Speaking to an estimated 1,500 people at the city's convention center, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt unveiled artist renderings of the slightly under $1 billion project, which is expected to be completed in time for the NBA team's 2028-29 season.
The arena will be at least 750,000 square feet, Holt said. Although seating has yet to be determined, it will be similar to the Paycom Center with a smaller capacity. The structure will be a 360-degree arena with glass window walls. The design of the arena aims to bring people together with closer seating, Holt said.
'It is a statement piece for our city, and I really think it will be one of the most beautiful arenas of its kind, not just in the United States, but in the world,' Holt said.
In his State of the City address, Holt said the square footage of the current arena is too small and lacks the amenities of a modern arena. He believes that the new arena will address those issues.
The bulk funding will come from voter-approved sales taxes with the Thunder ownership contributing $50 million.
David Manica, the architect, said he did not know when construction would begin. The new arena will be built on the site where the Myriad Convention Center currently stands. Demolition is currently underway on that structure to make room for the new arena.
'I think we've started something that's really special for this place and for this city and for these people,' Manica said. 'There's more to come.'
Editor's note: The story was updated at 6:15 p.m. to clarify the funding sources.
SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Solve the daily Crossword
