The Chamber visits Atlanta for its annual InterCity Visit

Each year, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber organizes the InterCity Visit benchmarking trip to assess the city's progress compared to competing markets. This trip offers business and community leaders the chance to explore the assets and opportunities of other regions.

This year, Atlanta was chosen for its successful economic development strategies in business growth, infrastructure, innovation and hosting major events like the Olympics and conventions. The trip provided valuable insights on urban planning, regional collaboration, tourism, investment and fostering a vibrant business environment. Additionally, Atlanta’s focus on diversity, urban development and its role as a transportation hub offered key lessons.

Exploring Atlanta’s Influences and Talent Development

Held October 24–25, the trip began at Las Ventanas, a premier event space with sweeping views of downtown Atlanta. The first session, “Atlanta Influences Everything,” was led by Bem Joiner, a founding member of the creative branding agency, The Tmrrws. Joiner shared Atlanta’s evolution and how its culture has shaped its identity and national influence.

The day continued with a discussion on the role of Atlanta’s six historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in workforce development. Oklahoma’s only HBCU, Langston University, led attendees to hear from Dr. Charlene Gilbert, Provost at Clark Atlanta University, on how these institutions empower the region’s workforce. Spelman College alumna Che Watkins, executive director of Braven, spoke about preparing individuals from diverse backgrounds for career success.

The afternoon included tours of two key Atlanta landmarks: Tyler Perry Studios and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. Tyler Perry Studios, one of the largest in the U.S., provided an inside look at Atlanta’s booming film industry. With over $20 million spent in Oklahoma City in FY24 through feature films, attendees enjoyed a personal tour by Studio Operations President Steve Mensch.

At the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, guests learned about Atlanta’s pivotal role in advancing social justice. The visit highlighted the role of cultural institutions in shaping public policy and encouraging civic dialogue.

Exploring Infrastructure, Housing, and Revitalization

On day two, the group explored the legacy of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta, led by A.J. Robinson, President of Central Atlanta Progress. Robinson discussed how the Olympics positioned Atlanta on the global map and influenced the city's growth. Attendees also learned about Atlanta’s expertise in hosting major events, including the World Cup and Super Bowl, from Jason Lusk, vice president of sales at the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Tom Weyandt, former deputy chief operating officer for the City of Atlanta.

At lunch, the group toured the Atlanta BeltLine, a transformative urban revitalization project. Ryan Gravel, founder of Sixpitch, shared his vision for the 22-mile network of former railway corridors, now a vibrant, multi-use space with parks, trails and transit routes that connect neighborhoods. Gravel was joined by Kraig Torres, CEO of Hop City, who discussed how the BeltLine drives economic growth by fostering new business opportunities. The group also learned about Atlanta’s affordable housing initiatives from Matt Bedsole, leader of the Housing Innovation Lab, and Alan Ferguson, president and CEO of Atlanta Habitat for Humanity.

Development and Transportation

The trip also included a session on Atlanta’s transportation systems, led by Mike Alexander, chief operating officer of the Atlanta Regional Commission, and Scott Haggard, director of government and external affairs at the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority. They discussed the development, challenges and future of transportation in Atlanta, covering topics such as MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), regional transit improvements and efforts to enhance connectivity between the city and surrounding areas.

The visit ended with a session on Centennial Yards, a 50-acre redevelopment project in downtown Atlanta, led by Ben Vera, vice president of Centennial Yards Company. The project aims to transform underutilized property into spaces for business, retail, entertainment and housing.

Concluding Insights

The final stop was Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, located in The Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use development. Lauren Abernathy, vice president of marketing for Braves Development Company, discussed how the district has contributed significantly to the region’s economy.

Throughout the trip, attendees learned valuable lessons on urban transformation, talent development, infrastructure and business growth. The visit to Atlanta has provided key takeaways to help strengthen Oklahoma City’s growth and partnerships.