Kenton Tsoodle

As summer winds down and many of us have wrapped up our summer travels, now is a great moment to reflect on the growing impact of tourism on our city. Much of Oklahoma City's tourism industry received extra attention and investment in recent years—from our new convention space to the revitalization of The National to new and improved sports arenas—and our city is now reaping the rewards.

Last week, voters in Oklahoma City approved a tax increase on hotels, from 5.5% to 9.25%, starting October 1- to include independent peer-to-peer lodging businesses, like Air BnB and Verbo. The vote will usher in expedited funding for further tourism developments and the high 66% approval from voters signals public commitment to further developing the city's attractions.

The Oklahoma City Urban Renewal Authority (OCURA), the city's public redevelopment agency, has released its FY 2023-2024 annual report, highlighting 66 development projects across central OKC. These projects include affordable housing, infill developments, important historic preservation projects, and several mixed-use buildings.

Accelerator programs help local entrepreneurs and small business owners gain access to capital, secure funding for their businesses, connect with other business owners and gain valuable training and skills development to grow their businesses. The Alliance for Economic Development has provided American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for several local accelerator programs, including

Oklahoma City was recognized by Money as one of the 50 Best Places to Live in the U.S. in 2024 due to its ongoing redevelopment initiatives, and diverse population.

Last week, the Oklahoma City Innovation District named Jeff Seymour as their new President and CEO.

The 2024-25 Thunder season kicks off this Thursday, with the first home game on Sunday, October 27.

Oklahoma City leaders are seeking public input for a major reinvestment in our city through a general obligation (GO) bond, slated for a vote in 2025. GO bonds are a crucial tool for sustainable funding on major infrastructure projects and this is the first GO Bond in almost a decade. It is a tremendous opportunity to continue OKC's impressive trajectory.

The Alliance for the Economic Development of Oklahoma City would like to thank Darnell Forshee for his work and congratulate him on his retirement.

The Alley’s End project, a 214-unit complex designed as affordable housing, has officially secured financing to move forward with the development.