Developers in Oklahoma City are planning to build a 1,907-foot tower called “The Boardwalk at Bricktown,” which would be the tallest skyscraper in the United States and the sixth tallest building in the world. The city’s Planning Commission recently recommended zoning approval for the project, despite concerns raised by some commissioners about the size and scope of the tower, particularly the large LED signage that is proposed to be placed on the development. The project, led by developer Scot Matteson, is set to be built in the Bricktown neighborhood of downtown Oklahoma City and will include three towers spanning approximately 5 million square feet.
During a public hearing on the project, concerns were raised by residents about the use of electronic billboards on the proposed tower. Some residents felt that the billboards were tacky and not in line with the city’s aesthetic. The tallest building in Oklahoma City currently is the Devon Energy Center, which reaches 50 stories. Renderings of the new building, with its planned 134 stories, show signage that is comparable in size to the Devon tower, prompting concerns about the visual impact of the project on the city’s skyline.
In response to the concerns raised by residents and planning commissioners, the city’s Planning Commission decided to alter the zoning request to include a maximum size limit for signage on the building. Developers will now need additional approval from the planning commission and city council before erecting any signs at the site. The project is expected to begin construction later this summer on the first two towers, Ruby and Emerald, which will be 23 stories tall. The entire development is estimated to be completed within 24 to 30 months and will feature retail, hotel, residential spaces, and a parking structure on the ground floor.
Oklahoma City, with a population of nearly 700,000 residents, is experiencing significant growth and transformation. Various projects are in the works, including a $71 million multipurpose stadium for high school, collegiate, and professional sporting events, as well as a new stadium for the NBA team, the Oklahoma City Thunder. The city has approved a one percent sales tax to help fund these projects. Developers of The Boardwalk at Bricktown believe the project will be an iconic destination, driving economic expansion, investment, and job creation in the city. The development is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to attract new businesses and investment, transforming Oklahoma City into a vibrant and thriving urban center.
