New OG&E Coliseum Topping Out Marks Milestone for Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City's (OKC) new Fairgrounds Coliseum reached a significant milestone celebrating the topping out ceremony on March 27, set to be renamed OG&E Coliseum with completion in spring 2025. Teresa Rose, Chair of MAPS 4 and Greater OKC, hailed the $126 million project as a "landmark moment," emphasizing its status as the first MAPS 4 project to break ground.

Oklahoma City has managed to continue investments in an unbroken string of successes, with three decades of “Vote Yes,” and most recently with the Dec. 12 vote for a new arena. The new coliseum promises to be a multifaceted hub for economic and cultural activity, with its importance as a venue for local and regional events.

Mayor David Holt echoed Rose's sentiments, recognizing the pivotal role of voters, taxpayers and past leaders like Mayor Jim Norick and the Greater OKC Chamber in shaping the city's vision.

"The events that happen in this coliseum are a major economic driver for our community, but it’s also a cultural touchstone for our city and state," Holt explained.

The state-of-the-art facility, spanning 216,000 square feet and comprising 11 hundred-cubic-yards of concrete, will boast seating for more than 7,000 people. Steven Johnson, Senior Project Manager for Flint Co., the coliseum’s general contractor, emphasized its design focus on accessibility and improved convenience to accommodate various events, from performing arts to livestock shows.

Thirty years have passed since the approval of the first MAPS. The Jim Norick arena, which opened in 1965, will soon celebrate its sixtieth anniversary. Ron Norick, former mayor of OKC and father of the MAPS program, reflected on the profound significance of these milestones emphasizing on the enduring legacy of civic engagement and tradition that has defined Oklahoma City's development over the past three decades.

From major events such as Disney on Ice, performances by iconic artists like Elvis Presley, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, and Ozzy Osbourne, among others, the Fairgrounds Coliseum has hosted a diverse array of memorable experiences.

"Without the support of OKC citizens and dedicated partners, none of this would have been possible," noted Norick. "Today marks a significant transformation as we rename the Fairgrounds Coliseum to the OG&E Coliseum."

Sean Trauschke, President & CEO of OG&E Energy Corp., expressed pride in the company's partnership with the Oklahoma State Fair and its commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life.

"These projects are vital contributors to our economic and cultural vitality, touching lives in the community," Trauschke emphasized.

"We're thrilled that the new coliseum will bear the OG&E name. This partnership reflects our longstanding presence in the community, as we've been headquartered here for 122 years. When the Oklahoma State Fair approached us to join them in the new coliseum, it was an easy decision."

Jim Sheppard, MAPS Construction Project Manager, concluded the ceremony with a guided tour and optimism for the coliseum's future, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of Oklahoma City's progress.

He shared, “Over the next 90 to 120 days, the appearance and entry in this coliseum will start to take shape. This is going to be a structure for everyone in Oklahoma City to be proud of.”