OKC’s Strong Neighborhoods Initiative shows how public, private investment spurs community growth

Oklahoma City’s Strong Neighborhoods Initiative (SNI) has been working since 2012 to improve neighborhoods through public and private investment. A recent report shows progress made between 2012 and 2022 in targeted areas. 

Led by the City Planning Department, the initiative partners with residents for five years to address housing, infrastructure and community needs. Funding comes from the city and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. 

“Evaluating the last ten years of data has confirmed the SNI has made significant positive impacts on the targeted neighborhoods,” said Shannon Entz, urban revitalization program planner. 

Since its launch, the city has invested $18 million in SNI neighborhoods, matched by more than $56 million in private funding. The first neighborhoods included Classen Ten Penn, Classen’s North Highland Park and Culbertson’s East Highland. Other participating areas include Capitol Hill, Capitol View, Martin Luther King and Metro Park. Ross Heights and Stockyards City will begin projects this summer. 

Entz said the program relies on input from residents and community leaders to shape strategies. “We rely on them to share their stories, their needs and their dreams for their neighborhood. Together, we develop five-year strategies to catalyze investment and, more importantly, improve the lives of the people who call the neighborhoods home.” 

Investments include new homes, sidewalks, neighborhood signage, trees, park improvements and public art. These visual changes often attract more interest from residents and businesses. 

“Classen’s North Highland Park neighborhood continues to thrive after the successful SNI,” said Shirley Denson, a longtime resident. “CNHP will forever be grateful to SNI for helping us move forward in such a spectacular way.” 

Ben Davis, housing and community development principal planner, emphasized the importance of key partner Neighborhood Alliance. “Neighborhood Alliance, works with neighbors to build organizational capacity and connections that will sustain momentum after they sunset out of the SNI.” 

SNI projects completed from 2012 to 2022 include: 

• 33 affordable homes built 
• 49 homes repaired 
• 3 parks improved 
• 69 blocks of sidewalk installed 
• 59 hazardous trees removed 
• 271 trees planted 
• 36 public art and beautification projects completed 
• More than 1,000 students engaged through after-school and summer programs 

The SNI model continues to show how steady investment and neighborhood partnerships can drive long-term change.