Community meeting on Adventure District development

Business owners, residents and community organizers are invited to a key community meeting to explore the potential creation of new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts in and around the Adventure District. This session will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on August 6 at Millwood High School. The meeting intends to provide a detailed overview of TIF districts and solicit community feedback on the proposed plans aimed at boosting the area’s development and appeal. 

“This meeting provides a valuable chance for residents to understand how TIF districts can be used to support economic growth and improve amenities within our community,” said Councilwoman Nikki Nice. “I look forward to hearing residents’ thoughts on this proposal.” 

The Adventure District, located in northeast Oklahoma City, is home to some of the state’s most outstanding attractions—all within a compact 2-mile radius. Despite the variety of world-class museums, a premier horse-racing facility, and a nationally renowned zoo, visitors often experience only one of these attractions, unaware that other exciting destinations are nearby. 

In 2000, these attractions teamed up with the Frontier Country Marketing Association to create a cohesive marketing strategy promoting the area as a unified entertainment destination. By 2003, the Oklahoma City Council officially designated the Adventure District as an entertainment district, recognizing its collective appeal. 

Today, the district attracts more than 3 million visitors annually. Visitors come not only to watch thrilling horse races or exciting Women’s College World Series softball games but also to explore the zoo with its 2,200 exotic animals and view memorabilia from the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. The district has evolved into an entertainment spot suitable for all family members. 

The proposed TIF districts aim to build on this success by enhancing infrastructure and attracting private investments in and around the Adventure District. The potential TIF districts would cover areas from NE Grand Boulevard to the east of N Bryant Avenue and from Interstate 44 to south of NE 50th Street. These districts may be activated at different times based on the specific development needs, ensuring a well-planned growth trajectory. 

TIF districts are a proven tool for economic development, used globally to stimulate growth. By capturing a portion of the increased property tax revenue generated within the district, cities can reinvest in the area’s infrastructure, thereby incentivizing further private investment. This approach not only boosts property values but also drives economic growth, job creation, and business retention. 
 
Ward 7 Councilwoman Nikki Nice will host the community meeting, offering residents a chance to learn about TIF districts and the proposed boundaries. Attendees will also be updated on upcoming City projects and have the opportunity to engage with partner agencies. 

With 15 existing TIF districts contributing to Oklahoma City's growth, adding new districts in and around the Adventure District promises to further enhance the city’s economic vitality.