Leadership Notes: Investments that continue shaping Oklahoma City’s future

For decades, Oklahoma City has made intentional investments in projects designed to strengthen our economy, improve quality of life and position our community for long-term growth. Today, the results of those efforts create new opportunities for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

This momentum is crystal clear around sports and entertainment.

Once considered an emerging market, OKC now regularly hosts national broadcasts, championship events and international competitions while attracting opportunities that place our city in front of audiences across the country and around the world.

In the coming years, Oklahoma City will host events tied to the LA28 Olympic Games and the 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships. The city remains home to premier events such as the NCAA Women’s College World Series while maintaining its status as the Horse Show Capital of the World. Events including the American Quarter Horse Association World Championship Show and the Arabian and Half-Arabian Youth World Championships draw participants and visitors from around the world, reinforcing OKC as a destination for elite competition across multiple disciplines.

These opportunities reflect years of collaboration and investment. Through MAPS and venue development, Oklahoma City created infrastructure to support large-scale events while enhancing the experience for residents and visitors year-round.

That momentum continues today. Construction is underway on the MAPS 4 multipurpose stadium and the Continental Coliseum, projects that will support future opportunities ranging from professional soccer and UFL football to NBA Thunder basketball, concerts, conventions and major entertainment events.

Oklahoma City’s recent national media coverage reflects that growing visibility. ABC/ESPN’s record-setting coverage of the NCAA Women’s College World Series, NBC’s coverage of the Oklahoma City Thunder, recent features on Good Morning America and UFC Fight Night coming to Paycom Center in July place OKC in front of audiences across the country.

Sports and entertainment play an important role in Oklahoma City’s visitor economy, but they also strengthen community pride, support local businesses and reinforce OKC’s reputation as a competitive, forward-looking city prepared for future opportunities.

This momentum reflects decades of vision, partnership and investment that position our city for what comes next. Thank you to the voters, residents, elected officials, partners and businesses who continue to support these aligned efforts.