I believe that Journal Record article is inaccurate on several fronts.
Much of the assistance mentioned is for improving and expanding the garage, which is being done in association with COPTA -- that was going to happen anyway.
I believe the only real assistance being sought by OPUBCO is the $1.5 million from the Devon TIF. And even though the primary aspect of that TIF was the Project 180 stuff, there was another chunk of money set aside specifically to move corporate HQ's downtown. OPUBCO and the massive investment needed to turn the CC into a modern newsroom seem to fit those parameters and I bet this will easily win approval.
Back to the parking garage, OPUBCO won't be the only tenant in the remodeled Center Center. I'm hearing a branch of the YMCA may be included, probably some additional smaller office tenants and the Mahogany rumor for the SW corner is starting to firm up.
So, this isn't just about OPUBCO.
The more I find out about this, the more I think it's going to be great for OKC. OPUBCO can bring life to that space in a way no other office tenant could as they employ hundreds who are very tuned in and interested in the community. They also work long, unusual hours including weekends... Imagine what that will mean for downtown restaurants and street activity in general.
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