MAPS 4 plans for new seating at Paycom Center approved

The Oklahoma City Council voted earlier this month to approve final plans and specifications for new seating at Paycom Center as a part of MAPS 4. 

MAPS 4 includes $105 million for several phases of improvements to the 20-year-old downtown arena and $10 million for improvements to a practice facility on North Oklahoma Avenue. The new amenities and improvements are designed to enhance the guest experience at Oklahoma City Thunder NBA games and other live entertainment events. Initial improvements include $4 million to replace seats in the lower, middle and upper bowls. 

The City of Oklahoma City selected global architectural design firm, Populous, to develop a master plan for the renovations at Paycom Center.   

“Investing in our downtown arena more than 20 years ago proved to be a game-changing decision for Oklahoma City,” said Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt. “Paycom Center, home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, serves as an economic driver and a top destination for live sports and entertainment. Our continued investment will focus first on fan amenities, and we’re excited about the new features the facility will offer to residents, visitors and event organizers.”  

The plans include new seats ranging from 19-inch fabric seats to 21-inch seats faux leather seats that offer taller backs and cup holders for a more comfortable guest experience that is standard in comparable arenas.  

“We are able to make progress quickly on the MAPS 4 Downtown Arena project because it’s an existing, city-owned facility with an established and engaged operator,” MAPS Program Manager David Todd said. “This is the 20th year of operation for Paycom Center, and guest amenities, like new seats, are the highest priority among all anticipated phases of work.” 

This project will open for construction bids on March 16, 2022, and a contract awarded in April. 

Additional MAPS 4 upgrades that will be made between now and 2028 include a new scoreboard, enhanced 300-level concession areas and signature bar, and further technology and infrastructure improvements. To avoid disruptions to major events and the NBA schedule, additional upgrades will be completed through a multi-year approach, with renovations anticipated through 2028.  

“These targeted efforts will help define the next generation of entertainment in Oklahoma City,” Chris Semrau, General Manager for ASM Global OKC, said. “We look forward to modernizing the venue and elevating experiences for the guests, tours, and teams at Paycom Center.”  

The downtown arena was built debt-free as part of the original MAPS program that passed by Oklahoma City residents in 1993. The facility opened its doors in 2002. Welcoming more than one million guests each year, Paycom Center upgrades will provide transformative improvements that enable the city to continue to attract top-tier concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment offerings.