I have been really sick and haven't posted since the 3rd of July, but I've checked in a few times and as I'm feeling better, things are looking better! This is exciting!

Sinopec???

Bring on the cranes.

http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j286/UnFrSaKn/Downtown%20OKC/6197694299_988823e3db_o.jpg

Bring on the cranes...

Or this?

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/474811_502033936540516_2137222441_o.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=502033936540516&set=a.133475800063000.32624.109423129134934&type=1&ref=nf)

:wink:

Oh wow. It's exciting to log on here and see this thread jumped 4 pages!!!

BRING ON THE CRANES!

Or this?

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-frc1/474811_502033936540516_2137222441_o.jpg (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=502033936540516&set=a.133475800063000.32624.109423129134934&type=1&ref=nf)

:wink:

Oklahoma river is in flood stage there......

Oklahoma river is in flood stage there......

Yeah, well... you know... with all the rain we've had lately... *ahem*

Ok, I thought I'd take another stab with my mad graphics editing skillz... :evilsmile

I grabbed the Duke Energy Center from Charlotte for a potential tower, taken from this pic here:
http://img833.imageshack.us/img833/367/img5268tc.jpg

That building is actually too similar to the Devon Tower, which likely won't be the case with our new tower, but let's overlook that.

Then I placed it into one of Cooper Ross's awesome nighttime aerials. Here's the result:

http://dl.dropbox.com/s/1802ed83545a9fh/new_tower_merged.jpg

Ok, the effect isn't quite right. But still... something to look at. :)

This little guy has my vote:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll14/Platemaker_photos/OKC/OKC147.jpg

4175

Remember these? Of all of them i thought this was the sharpest one.

Very nice, praedura. It gives a great impression of what a new building will look like in that location.

I like it praedura, but you gotta make it taller man!!!!!!!!!! and add 3-7 more towers while you're at it ;)

This little guy has my vote:
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/ll14/Platemaker_photos/OKC/OKC147.jpg

4175

Remember these? Of all of them i thought this was the sharpest one.They could use a little work but most of them would be cool to see!

I hope it is shorter than that. I really want it to be about half-way between the height of Chase and Devon. And then I want the next one to bridge the differences further.

I like it praedura, but you gotta make it taller man!!!!!!!!!! and add 3-7 more towers while you're at it ;)

Man, you are so greedy! (but hey, I understand... so am I)
:)

I hope it is shorter than that. I really want it to be about half-way between the height of Chase and Devon. And then I want the next one to bridge the differences further.

I think we'll see something that's approximately 100 feet shorter than the duke energy center.

I hope it is shorter than that. I really want it to be about half-way between the height of Chase and Devon. And then I want the next one to bridge the differences further.

Hmm... well, I want it to bridge the gap as well. Although I'd like it closer to DT height than Chase. About three-fourths of the way, rather than half. But that's just me.

I'm not trying to stir up another "OKC vs Tulsa" frenzy on OKCTalk, but I sincerely wonder how Tulsa residents are going to react to this kind of news. If anything, I hope that witnessing this kind of momentum inspires the citizens of Tulsa to work towards what OKC has implemented. This upcoming announcement is a big deal, especially given that Devon eclipsed the BOK only about two years ago. Even if this development incites a little negativity from some, I'm all for it if it means that Tulsa residents can get it together. A little envy and rivalry can be productive sometimes. I'd really like to see Tulsa flourish as well.

Anyway, back on topic. I'm just wondering aloud (metaphorically speaking) about what kind of comments we can expect to see in NewsOK and Tulsa World next weekend.

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-5.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-5.jpg.html)
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-4.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-4.jpg.html)
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-3.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-3.jpg.html)
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-2.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-2.jpg.html)
http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-1.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-1.jpg.html)

I'm not trying to stir up another "OKC vs Tulsa" frenzy on OKCTalk, but I sincerely wonder how Tulsa residents are going to react to this kind of news. If anything, I hope that witnessing this kind of momentum inspires the citizens of Tulsa to work towards what OKC has implemented. This upcoming announcement is a big deal, especially given that Devon eclipsed the BOK only about two years ago. Even if this development incites a little negativity from some, I'm all for it if it means that Tulsa residents can get it together. A little envy and rivalry can be productive sometimes. I'd really like to see Tulsa flourish as well.

Anyway, back on topic. I'm just wondering aloud (metaphorically speaking) about what kind of comments we can expect to see in NewsOK and Tulsa World next weekend.

I was going to say something about this earlier. I wonder how long after the story breaks somebody will slam OKC and say it should be built in Tulsa.

As for Tulsa flourishing, I would say today they are flourishing very well. OKC may be getting the big economic developments but Tulsa has some advantages that OKC would kill for. I think there are things OKC can learn from Tulsa as well as things Tulsa can learn from OKC.

I'm not trying to stir up another "OKC vs Tulsa" frenzy on OKCTalk, but I sincerely wonder how Tulsa residents are going to react to this kind of news. If anything, I hope that witnessing this kind of momentum inspires the citizens of Tulsa to work towards what OKC has implemented. This upcoming announcement is a big deal, especially given that Devon eclipsed the BOK only about two years ago. Even if this development incites a little negativity from some, I'm all for it if it means that Tulsa residents can get it together. A little envy and rivalry can be productive sometimes. I'd really like to see Tulsa flourish as well.

Anyway, back on topic. I'm just wondering aloud (metaphorically speaking) about what kind of comments we can expect to see in NewsOK and Tulsa World next weekend.I'm not trying to say that OKC is better than Tulsa, but OKC is better than Tulsa. j/k. Tulsa is a wonderful city for what it is and has one of the most impressive skylines of any city it's size, imo. I really think the days of Tulsa getting the better retail are over and Tulsa's ability to say we have better shopping, bar and entertainment districts, are numbered(VERY NUMBERED)

If you're talking "killing for" arts and entertainment that Tulsa has over OKC, I'll glady take booming economic development over that any day.

I'm not trying to say that OKC is better than Tulsa, but OKC is better than Tulsa. j/k. Tulsa is a wonderful city for what it is and has one of the most impressive skylines of any city it's size, imo. I really think the days of Tulsa getting the better retail are over and Tulsa's ability to say we have better shopping, bar and entertainment districts, are numbered(VERY NUMBERED)

I hope you are right. I envy the Blue Dome, Brady, and Brookside areas of Tulsa. I wish OKC had areas with a similar vibe. Midtown is still pretty underwhelming, though there is amazing potential there. The Plaza is really the closest we currently have yet its a fraction of the size of Tulsa's districts.

I like where Auto Alley is going, but everything closing up at 9 or 10PM is sure not very 'big city.'

If you're talking "killing for" arts and entertainment that Tulsa has over OKC, I'll glady take booming economic development over that any day.

The booming economic development should bring more of the arts and entertainment type attractions to OKC. Both pieces of the puzzle are necessary for a well-balanced city.

I'm not trying to stir up another "OKC vs Tulsa" frenzy on OKCTalk, but I sincerely wonder how Tulsa residents are going to react to this kind of news. If anything, I hope that witnessing this kind of momentum inspires the citizens of Tulsa to work towards what OKC has implemented. This upcoming announcement is a big deal, especially given that Devon eclipsed the BOK only about two years ago. Even if this development incites a little negativity from some, I'm all for it if it means that Tulsa residents can get it together. A little envy and rivalry can be productive sometimes. I'd really like to see Tulsa flourish as well.

Anyway, back on topic. I'm just wondering aloud (metaphorically speaking) about what kind of comments we can expect to see in NewsOK and Tulsa World next weekend.

They are going to chant the same BS they always do. "But we have hills and trees and Cains, and who wants to live in OKSh**ty, and they have the state capitol and hog all the money blah blah blah."

I would hope, though, that the smart people use it as a kick in the pants to do more. Just today there was an article about how sales tax has dwindled to the point they cannot even maintain their streets, and the tax base continues to lose out to the suburbs. I don't want to say they are desperate, but something big needs to happen.

I really like Tulsa and wish them the best, they have great potential. But their citizenry and leaders are going to have to stop believing their poo doesn't stink and start making moves.

http://i278.photobucket.com/albums/kk92/gandjdunlap/NewTowerFun-1.jpg (http://s278.photobucket.com/user/gandjdunlap/media/NewTowerFun-1.jpg.html)

Are you hating on the Peake? whats up with the BOK center transplant?

I hope you are right. I envy the Blue Dome, Brady, and Brookside areas of Tulsa. I wish OKC had areas with a similar vibe. Midtown is still pretty underwhelming, though there is amazing potential there. The Plaza is really the closest we currently have yet its a fraction of the size of Tulsa's districts.

I like where Auto Alley is going, but everything closing up at 9 or 10PM is sure not very 'big city.'Yeah, I'm really hoping all these districts come together and once that happens, that will be awesome and should be able to beat anything Tulsa has. Film Row and Farmers Market are going to be good rising districts too and what is exciting about C2S, is with the right public input and involvement, we can define this area for years to come.

This is one of the rare places me and JTF agree on is the new park needs to be more connected and integrated with the city! Instead of building the city around it, we can build the city with it and make it more connected with everything. C2S is such a large area, it seems like it could have a nice big bar district, urban housing and living on a huge scale, and a new cool entertainment district along the river.

Anyways, C2S gets me really excited thinking about what it can become, almost as excited as a new tower ;). This is truly a new part of our city we can make and define. Hopefully it turns out a great place to live, visit and show off!

I hope you are right. I envy the Blue Dome, Brady, and Brookside areas of Tulsa. I wish OKC had areas with a similar vibe. Midtown is still pretty underwhelming, though there is amazing potential there. The Plaza is really the closest we currently have yet its a fraction of the size of Tulsa's districts.

I like where Auto Alley is going, but everything closing up at 9 or 10PM is sure not very 'big city.'

Western is by far the most similar district we have to brookside and or cherry street, especially if we can get the street scape improvements going.

Anyone else notice how 'thin' the urban fabric is getting in these renderings. I prefer the high density of the existing core. Hopefully, the Preftakes block will provide some middle ground.

Yeah, I'm really hoping all these districts come together and once that happens, that will be awesome and should be able to beat anything Tulsa has. Film Row and Farmers Market are going to be good rising districts too and what is exciting about C2S, is with the right public input and involvement, we can define this area for years to come.

This is one of the rare places me and JTF agree on is the new park needs to be more connected and integrated with the city so instead of building the city around it, we can build the city with it and make it more connected with everything. C2S is such a large area, it seems like it could have a nice big bar district, urban housing and living on a huge scale, and a new cool entertainment district along the river.

I think SoSA is also key. That entire section of Midtown is still boarded up and abandoned. It will be great when there is continuous gentrified urban fabric from Midtown, through SoSA, down to Film Row, through the CBD, to Bricktown, Deep Deuce, Auto Alley, and then finally 23rd St. All of that engulfing Heritage Hills and Mesta Park. How many years do you think we are from that?

The booming economic development should bring more of the arts and entertainment type attractions to OKC. Both pieces of the puzzle are necessary for a well-balanced city.

So why didn't you move to Tulsa from NC instead of here ;)

In all seriousness, I agree, but I certainly like where we are headed and what it could all bring. I guess I just need minimal arts and entertainment options in my life. I'm more of a sports guy and OKC Phil is plenty enough for me.

I think SoSA is also key. That entire section of Midtown is still boarded up and abandoned. It will be great when there is continuous gentrified urban fabric from Midtown, through SoSA, down to Film Row, through the CBD, to Bricktown, Deep Deuce, Auto Alley, and then finally 23rd St. All of that engulfing Heritage Hills and Mesta Park. How many years do you think we are from that?That would not be a question for me lol, if my life depended on it, I would guess 10-15 years before it all is fully connected. I think DD and Bricktown is going to be the most exciting area for awhile and then the other districts will slowly come together. In what order or fashion, I have no clue :p

Anyone else notice how 'thin' the urban fabric is getting in these renderings. I prefer the high density of the existing core. Hopefully, the Preftakes block will provide some middle ground.

Yep. Definitely need something significant to fill the gaps between Stage Center and Devon, Devon and Oklahoma Tower. Preftakes and north of MoA might do it nicely.

Are you hating on the Peake? whats up with the BOK center transplant?

Even with renovations to Chesapeake Energy Arena, BOK is a better arena, capacity not withstanding.

BOK is more appeasing exterior and nicer concourses, but once you are in your seat and watching the game I found the scale shifted back towards the Peake

Yep. Definitely need something significant to fill the gaps between Stage Center and Devon, Devon and Oklahoma Tower. Preftakes and north of MoA might do it nicely.

Gaps won't get filled when every new skyscraper announcement has a parking garage being built right next to it...

Gaps won't get filled when every new skyscraper announcement has a parking garage being built right next to it...

That is the typical way of skyscraper development in sunbelt cities. OKC's skyline is actually much denser than most cities its size in this region of the country with rather minimal parking creating gaps.

Even with renovations to Chesapeake Energy Arena, BOK is a better arena, capacity not withstanding.

Maybe on the outside, but, other than the lobby, I can't think of any way in which the interior of BOK is superior to the renovated interior of CHK.

BOK is more appeasing exterior and nicer concourses, but once you are in your seat and watching the game I found the scale shifted back towards the Peake

Are the seats at BOK on top of each other like at our arena? I've never been in such a cramped arena. I always feel uncomfortable.

Are the seats at BOK on top of each other like at our arena? I've never been in such a cramped arena. I always feel uncomfortable.

Honestly I felt it was worse at BOK

I think SoSA is also key. That entire section of Midtown is still boarded up and abandoned. It will be great when there is continuous gentrified urban fabric from Midtown, through SoSA, down to Film Row, through the CBD, to Bricktown, Deep Deuce, Auto Alley, and then finally 23rd St. All of that engulfing Heritage Hills and Mesta Park. How many years do you think we are from that?

Good question, but things have happened much faster in the last five than few here would have predicted.

Even with renovations to Chesapeake Energy Arena, BOK is a better arena, capacity not withstanding.

Absolutely WRONG....... the BOK does not compare in any such way other than the skin to the 'Peake. I've been in both recently......The 'Peake is NBA standards, the BOK isn't... You obviously have not been down Founders Row inside the Peake...

Are the seats at BOK on top of each other like at our arena? I've never been in such a cramped arena. I always feel uncomfortable.

Stay out of Loud City and you'll be okay.

Back to topic. Any new news today? Has invites been sent out to the media yet for a press conference? If so, who did the invites come from?

I don't think we'll hear anything more until Friday.

If the interviews have been scheduled, I'm sure it was with the caveat that the news not be leaked.

I don't think we'll hear anything more until Friday.

If the interviews have been scheduled, I'm sure it was with the caveat that the news not be leaked.

Read that wrong at first and was disappointed. Thought you said you wouldn't think we'd hear about it on Friday.

I think SoSA is also key. That entire section of Midtown is still boarded up and abandoned. It will be great when there is continuous gentrified urban fabric from Midtown, through SoSA, down to Film Row, through the CBD, to Bricktown, Deep Deuce, Auto Alley, and then finally 23rd St. All of that engulfing Heritage Hills and Mesta Park. How many years do you think we are from that?

the cottage district will be almost all single family homes .. all be it mostly multi story

It's ticking.......2 1/2 days......

It's ticking.......2 1/2 days......

Shut up. My anxiety just kicked in & now I'm beyond anxious!!!

So why didn't you move to Tulsa from NC instead of here ;)

In all seriousness, I agree, but I certainly like where we are headed and what it could all bring. I guess I just need minimal arts and entertainment options in my life. I'm more of a sports guy and OKC Phil is plenty enough for me.

The OKC Phil is very good, very affordable.

Well, so I saw one of our city leaders at the gym today (who will remain nameless, but his sister was in residency with me), and we got to talking about plans for the SC site. He agrees with Pete and said to expect an announcement either at the end of this week or early next week. Educated guess would be Friday, since Pete has good sources about that date. He said it will be the SC site, but he wouldn't tell me who the company was. I would only guess that its OGE Energy Corp at this point. Anyways, he said plans had progressed faster than originally thought. I hope he's right!

I'm trying to confirm that everything is still set for Friday.

I hope you are right. I envy the Blue Dome, Brady, and Brookside areas of Tulsa. I wish OKC had areas with a similar vibe. Midtown is still pretty underwhelming, though there is amazing potential there. The Plaza is really the closest we currently have yet its a fraction of the size of Tulsa's districts.

I like where Auto Alley is going, but everything closing up at 9 or 10PM is sure not very 'big city.'

I love where we're headed. I don't know where, C2S maybe, but I would love to see something like Guthrie Green in the Brady District in Tulsa.

Thank you all for your speculation and thoughts, this is why I first started reading OKC Talk...

So will this Mystery Tower be the new home for the Scooby Doo gang? They could park their Mystery Machine right out front They could unmask those crotchety old local businessmen who would have gotten away with it all if it hadn't been for those pesky kids.

The OKC Phil is very good, very affordable.

You're not lying. I'm definitely not an artsy type of guy, as I said, but I do love some good instrumental music, which is exactly what the symphony provides.

So will this Mystery Tower be the new home for the Scooby Doo gang? They could park their Mystery Machine right out front They could unmask those crotchety old local businessmen who would have gotten away with it all if it hadn't been for those pesky kids.

That's how it has remained a mystery. The name of the company has been in front of us the whole time: Mystery Incorporated

The tower will be shaped as a giant Scooby snack.

That's how it has remained a mystery. The name of the company has been in front of us the whole time: Mystery Incorporated

The tower will be shaped as a giant Scooby snack.

Or how about a Waffle House world headquarters shaped like a bottle of syrup!

Anyways, he said plans had progressed faster than originally thought. I hope he's right!

A lot of people here might disagree with that, Patrick. LOL

Ok, I decided to jump in on the guessing game for the new tower figures. Since I've been playing around with image editing, I decided to make a graphic (could have just typed it in, but what the hay)...

http://dl.dropbox.com/s/go0ajhkxr5ogvig/mystery_tower_figures.jpg

Naturally, I can't really justify the numbers. I'm just speculating (Pete told us it was our job!)

Ok, I decided to jump in on the guessing game for the new tower figures. Since I've been playing around with image editing, I decided to make a graphic (could have just typed it in, but what the hay)...

http://dl.dropbox.com/s/go0ajhkxr5ogvig/mystery_tower_figures.jpg

Naturally, I can't really justify the numbers. I'm just speculating (Pete told us it was our job!)

So is that it? No windows except on the first floor?

I hope this doesn't turn out like the AT&T announcement where we get something pretty great but it's not quite as tall or cool as some had wished for.

I also hope the announcement doesn't get delayed past Friday otherwise there may be riots in the streets. :)