AUGUST 2026 • OKCCHAMBER.COM
RECORD 25 MILLION VISITORS FUELED OKLAHOMA CITY’S ECONOMY IN 2025
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A record 25 million visitors traveled to the city last year, driving $2.9 billion in spending, supporting more than 36,000 jobs and generating $396 million in state and local tax revenue, according to a new economic impact report commissioned by Visit Oklahoma City. The report, prepared by Tourism Economics, also found visitor activity generated a total economic impact of $4.8 billion and produced $1.5 billion in personal income, underscoring tourism’s role as one of Oklahoma City’s strongest economic drivers. While visitors come to Oklahoma City for everything from sporting events and conventions to concerts, festivals and family vacations, their impact RECORD 25 MILLION VISITORS FUELED OKLAHOMA CITY’S ECONOMY IN 2025
benefits residents year-round. The report’s findings illustrate how tourism has become a key contributor to Oklahoma City’s economy, reaching nearly every corner of the community. “Welcoming 25 million visitors for the first time is a milestone that reflects the momentum Oklahoma City has built over the past several years,” said Shaun Yates, senior vice president of tourism development for Visit OKC within the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “Every visitor who chooses Oklahoma City supports local businesses, aids in sustaining jobs and generates tax revenue that benefits our community. These results reinforce the value of continuing to invest in the experiences, events and amenities that make Oklahoma City a destination.” The record-setting year reflects decades of investment in Oklahoma City’s visitor experience. Expanded entertainment districts, nationally recognized sporting events, plus new hotels, museums, restaurants and attractions have helped transform the city into a destination for leisure travelers, conventions and major events. Those investments continue to pay dividends, attracting more visitors while increasing the economic benefits tourism brings to the community. The report found visitor spending increased 3.5% over 2024, while total visitation grew 1.7%. On average, visitors spent nearly $7.9 million every day throughout 2025. Restaurants
extends well beyond the places they visit. Every hotel stay, restaurant meal, attraction ticket and
and bars accounted for the largest share of visitor spending at $775 million, followed by $631 million in retail purchases. Recreation generated another $560 million in
retail purchase helps support local businesses, create jobs
and generate revenue that
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20 jobs in Oklahoma City. More than 10,000 of those positions were in the food and beverage industry alone, while recreation, lodging, retail and transportation also relied heavily on visitor spending to support local employment. The benefits of tourism extend beyond businesses and workers. Visitor activity generated $396 million in state and local tax revenue in 2025, helping fund public services while easing the tax burden on residents. According to the report, each Oklahoma City household would have needed to contribute an additional $1,412 in taxes to replace the revenue generated by visitors. In other words, the impact of tourism is felt not only by businesses that welcome visitors but by the entire community. With continued investments in world-class sports venues, convention facilities, attractions and quality- of-life amenities, Oklahoma City is well positioned to build on this record-setting year. Recent successes— from hosting international sporting events to attracting major conventions and welcoming a growing number of leisure travelers—have elevated the city’s profile and reinforced tourism’s role as a key economic driver. As the city continues to grow, the report’s findings demonstrate that every visitor contributes to Oklahoma City’s long- term economic vitality.
visitor spending, while lodging accounted for $522 million, illustrating how tourism supports businesses across the local economy. Those visitor dollars create an economic impact that extends far beyond hotels, restaurants and attractions. Businesses that serve travelers purchase goods and services from local suppliers, restaurants source ingredients from Oklahoma producers, venues contract with local service providers and retailers replenish inventory to meet demand. Employees whose jobs are supported by visitor spending also reinvest their earnings throughout the community, creating another layer of economic activity. Together, those indirect and induced impacts generated nearly $1.9 billion beyond visitors’ initial spending, bringing tourism’s total economic impact to $4.8 billion. “When people think about tourism, they often think about hotels or attractions, but its impact reaches much further,” Yates said. “Visitor spending supports restaurants, retailers, transportation providers, entertainment venues and countless small businesses across our community. It’s an investment that benefits Oklahoma City long after visitors return home.” Tourism also continues to support employment across a wide range of industries. Visitor activity directly supported nearly 26,000 jobs in 2025, with another 10,000-plus jobs sustained through indirect and induced economic activity. Combined, those jobs generated $1.5 billion in personal income while supporting workers and families throughout the metro. In total, tourism supported 36,142 jobs—about one in every Runners from all 50 states and 18 countries participated in the 2025 Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, one of many events that helped Oklahoma City welcome a record 25 million visitors that year.
The 2026 ICF Canoe Slalom World Championships brought elite athletes from around the world to Oklahoma City, highlighting the city’s growing reputation as a destination for international sporting events.
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LEADING THE NEXT CHAPTER OF OU HEALTH
OU Health has undergone a remarkable transformation — uniting care, discovery and education to serve Oklahoma in powerful ways. That progress was not accidental. It was built through leadership and partnership. A strong foundation. A seamless transition. A bold future for Oklahoma. Welcoming OU Health's New President & CEO Jonathan W. Curtright, MBA, MHA
A leader forged in complex academic health systems. A partner in OU Health’s transformation from the beginning. And now, the steward of its next chapter.
This is not a change in direction. It is a continuation with greater focus, broader reach and renewed momentum.
JONATHAN W. CURTRIGHT, MBA, MHA President & Chief Executive O cer
The foundation is strong. The moment is here. The work is never finished. The standards we hold ourselves to are ones that no one else can define for us. For all 77 counties. Never Done. Never Outdone.
LEADERSHIP NOTES
Every Visit Builds Oklahoma City For many people, tourism begins with a vacation, a convention or a weekend getaway. For Oklahoma City, every visit strengthens our economy by supporting local businesses, creating jobs and building our community. Economic development often brings to mind expanding local businesses, recruiting companies, expanding industries and preparing our workforce. Tourism is also a powerful driver of economic development and talent attraction, bringing new dollars into our economy while introducing millions of people each year to everything Oklahoma City has to offer. The latest economic impact report reveals new record milestones and underscores tourism’s impact. In 2025, visitors generated $2.9 billion in direct spending, contributing $4.8 billion to our economy. Tourism supported 36,142 jobs, welcomed 25 million visitors and generated $396 million in direct tax revenue for state and City of OKC governments. Behind those numbers are visitors supporting local businesses, attractions and sporting events. Their spending strengthens businesses, supports jobs and benefits our entire community. The impact doesn’t end when visitors return home. Visitor spending supports businesses, public services and community amenities that strengthen Oklahoma City’s quality of life and competitiveness. Those investments attract more visitors, residents, talent and employers, reinforcing the connection between tourism and economic development as well as talent recruitment. Oklahoma City continues to earn national recognition as a destination for sports, meetings, conventions and leisure travel. With the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games on the horizon, continued investment through MAPS and a growing calendar of major events, our community is reaching audiences around the world. Working with key partner organizations and stakeholders, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber/Visit OKC team help position Oklahoma City for long-term success. Together, these efforts strengthen our economy. Every new visitor creates opportunities for local businesses while reinforcing Oklahoma City’s reputation as a place where people want to live, work, visit and invest. As Oklahoma City continues to grow, the Chamber/Visit OKC remain committed to advancing strategies that strengthen our economy and create opportunities for businesses and residents alike. By continuing to invest in the experiences, partnerships and initiatives that make our city distinctive, we ensure every visit continues to build a stronger Oklahoma City for generations to come.
CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO
READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITY ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH
Taiwan delegation visits Chamber following trade agreement VeloCityOKC.com/ ChristysPick
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UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.) SEP 1 (TUE) State of the Region National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. OCT 7 (WED) Chamber Forum Petroleum Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. OCT 21 - 23 InterCity Visit 2026 San Diego NOV 4 (WED) State of the Economy National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. DEC 16 (WED) Annual Meeting National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
OKCONNECT HELPS BUSINESS LEADERS BUILD STRONGER COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Understanding how Oklahoma City works—and where business leaders can make an impact—is key to helping the region continue its momentum. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and Leadership Oklahoma City are partnering once again to offer OKConnect, an exclusive orientation program designed to introduce executives to the people, organizations and initiatives shaping the community. Geared toward top-level executives, senior managers, newcomers to the region and professionals taking on new or expanded leadership roles, OKConnect provides participants with a behind-the-scenes look at Oklahoma City’s history, growth and future through four interactive sessions. Throughout the program, participants will gain insight into the city’s evolution, explore the partnerships driving economic growth and learn how they can become more engaged in civic and community leadership. The program also offers opportunities to build relationships with fellow business leaders and community stakeholders. The program is co-chaired by Brooke Haneborg, director of business development at Manhattan Construction, and Dr. Quintin Hughes, executive director of Northeast Oklahoma City Renaissance. Participation is limited to 60 individuals, allowing for meaningful discussion and networking throughout the program. The cost is $500 for employees of Greater Oklahoma City Chamber member companies and $600 for non-members. To learn more or register for OKConnect, visit okcchamber.com/okconnect.
Program dates: • Wednesday, August 26 • Wednesday, September 30
• Wednesday, October 28 • Wednesday, November 18 Capacity: Limited to 60 participants.
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As central Oklahoma continues to grow, collaboration across city and county lines is becoming increasingly important to supporting long-term economic success. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s State of the Region event will bring together business and community leaders to explore the partnerships, projects and priorities shaping the future of the 10-county region. The program will focus on the progress taking place across central Oklahoma and the collaborative efforts helping communities address shared opportunities and challenges. Attendees will hear discussions about regional initiatives, infrastructure and development projects that are strengthening connections within the region while positioning central Oklahoma for continued growth. STATE OF THE REGION TO HIGHLIGHT COLLABORATION ACROSS CENTRAL OKLAHOMA
The event will also examine issues of regional importance and highlight the value of working together to advance economic development, improve quality of life and support the area’s continued momentum. State of the Region will take place Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 NE 63rd St. in Oklahoma City. Registration is $75 for Greater Oklahoma City Chamber members and $100 for non-members. To learn more or register, visit okcchamber.com. A special thanks to Presenting Sponsor Simmons Bank and Platinum Sponsor Post Oak Toyota. Panelists discuss regional collaboration during the 2025 State of the Region event. This year’s program will continue the conversation on the projects and partnerships shaping central Oklahoma’s future.
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The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s Chamber Forum series brings business and community leaders together to explore the issues, initiatives and opportunities influencing Oklahoma City’s continued growth. Each forum features timely discussions designed to provide insight into the topics shaping the region’s business climate, economy and future. The series connects attendees with thought leaders and subject matter experts who share perspectives on major community initiatives, public policy issues and emerging trends affecting the Oklahoma City region. Chamber Forum events also provide opportunities for networking and meaningful conversations among business and civic leaders. The next Chamber Forum will take place Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Petroleum Club of Oklahoma City, 100 N. Broadway Ave., Suite 3400. Additional program details and speaker information will be announced soon. To learn more or register, visit okcchamber.com. Special thanks to Presenting Sponsor Cox Communications. CHAMBER FORUM CONTINUES CONVERSATIONS ON ISSUES SHAPING OKLAHOMA CITY
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Representatives from the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber joined the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and other statewide partners at the Farnborough International Airshow this summer, strengthening relationships with aerospace companies and showcasing Oklahoma’s growing aerospace and defense industry on a global stage. Held every two years outside London, Farnborough is one of the world’s premier aerospace and defense events, bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, industry leaders and government representatives from around the world. As part of the Oklahoma delegation, the Chamber met with companies and organizations to support existing industry partners, explore future investment opportunities and reinforce Oklahoma’s position as a leader in aerospace and defense. “We have a dual economic development mission at the Chamber: supporting our existing companies and attracting new ones to the region,” said Dennis Pruitt, senior vice president of economic development. “By listening, observing and meeting, I gained a better appreciation of the issues our existing aerospace companies are facing. We had more than 80 conversations at this show, opening the doors to new potential projects, new relationships with site selection advisors and enhanced international collaboration with aerospace associations.” Throughout the event, Chamber representatives met with aerospace manufacturers, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) companies, advanced composite materials suppliers, drone and counter-drone companies OKLAHOMA DELEGATION STRENGTHENS AEROSPACE CONNECTIONS AT FARNBOROUGH
and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) innovators. Meetings also included aerospace associations from Austria, France, Japan and Spain, with conversations focused on aerospace innovation, workforce development, incentives and emerging technologies. One topic that generated significant interest was the Vertical Procedures and Analysis Range (V-PAR), currently under construction at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. The advanced testing facility highlights Oklahoma City’s growing role in advanced air mobility, an area Pruitt identified as a major opportunity for future growth. The visit also reinforced the importance of collaboration across Oklahoma’s aerospace ecosystem. Working alongside the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, the Aerospace Commerce Economic Services (ACES) Program, the Oklahoma Air & Space Port and the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance, the Chamber continues to support existing employers, strengthen international partnerships and position the Greater Oklahoma City region for continued aerospace investment.
Greater Oklahoma City Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater (left) visits with Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow.
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As the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber enters the second half of 2026, Chamber Chair Mike Ross sees opportunity ahead for Oklahoma City. Now more than halfway through his first year as chair, Ross reflected on the Chamber’s progress, the partnerships driving the city’s momentum and the priorities that will shape the months ahead. “We’re very busy,” Ross said. “I’m amazed at all the plates that are in the air, yet none of them seem to fall and break.” Ross pointed to two initiatives that best reflect the Chamber’s focus MIDYEAR REFLECTION: MIKE ROSS SEES OPPORTUNITY AHEAD FOR OKLAHOMA CITY
“There couldn’t be a better time for Oklahoma City to be focusing on how we tell our story,” Ross said. “We have so much attention coming our way in the next few years.” Ross also credits Oklahoma City’s collaborative approach for helping sustain that momentum. He said the close partnership between the Chamber, business leaders and city leadership continues to distinguish Oklahoma City from many peer communities and creates a strong foundation for future growth. “It’s that partnership that differentiates Oklahoma City,” Ross said. “We work together very well and seem to be pulling from the same end of the rope.” The year has already brought progress on advancing the Chamber’s priority initiatives, Ross said. The Chamber is focused on convening diverse perspectives across its body of work which has led to significant civic input, engagement and momentum. He believes strengthening connections between the business community, educators and workforce partners will be essential to the region’s long-term success. He also identified continued work surrounding the Oklahoma County jail and the community branding initiative as key priorities for the remainder of the year. “We didn’t get here overnight, and we’re not going to solve complex challenges overnight,” Ross said. “It’s going to take time, but it remains a very, very high priority.” That focus reflects what Ross says he hears most often from Chamber members. While business leaders recognize the challenges ahead, he said the prevailing sentiment is one of optimism and excitement about Oklahoma City’s future. “There’s a sense of anticipation that even
this year: advancing a regional education and workforce strategy with CivicLab and leading a community branding initiative that will help shape how Oklahoma City tells its story.
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better things are to come,” Ross said. “It’s a great time to be involved with the Chamber and to be involved in Oklahoma City.” Serving as chair has also given Ross a broader perspective on the work happening behind the scenes to keep that momentum moving. He said he’s been struck by both the opportunities ahead and the coordination required to advance initiatives across economic development, education, tourism and other Chamber priorities. “I’m amazed at the opportunities that are there before us,” Ross said. “It’s a window that is only open for a period of time, and we need to take advantage of it.”
As the year continues, Ross hopes the Chamber’s major initiatives move from planning to measurable progress. He said success will come from continued collaboration among the business community, educators and public partners to turn shared priorities into meaningful results. “I hope we’re actually not just talking about it, but really seeing things happen,” Ross said. There’s a sense of anticipation that even better things are to come... It’s a great time to be involved with the Chamber and to be involved in Oklahoma City. - Mike Ross
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According to Funk, the strongest communities don’t view education and workforce development as separate priorities. Instead, they intentionally connect education with employer needs and create pathways that prepare students for real careers. He pointed to states like Tennessee and Indiana, where investments in workforce-aligned education, technical training and employer partnerships have helped build stronger talent pipelines. Tennessee’s efforts include programs that help students earn credentials tied directly to in-demand careers, while Indiana has invested in workforce training programs that help employers develop the skilled workers they need. Although every state’s approach is different, Funk said the common thread is intentional collaboration between education and industry. That alignment pays dividends for employers. Communities with stronger workforce systems often have deeper pools of job-ready candidates, reducing hiring challenges while making the region more attractive to companies looking to expand or relocate. “The lesson is that workforce development works best when it is intentional,” Funk said. “When that happens, workers benefit, employers benefit, and the whole region becomes more competitive.” For Oklahoma City, that’s exactly why employers have an important role to play. “If businesses want access to skilled, prepared employees, they need to be active partners in helping shape the systems that prepare them,” Funk said.
A strong workforce doesn’t happen by accident. It takes employers, educators and community partners working together to prepare people for the jobs of today and tomorrow. That’s a lesson Bob Funk Jr., CEO of Express Employment Professionals, has seen firsthand through the company’s network of offices across North America. “The strongest workforce pipelines are found in communities that understand workforce development does not happen in isolation,” Funk said. “Businesses cannot solve it on their own, and neither can schools. It takes a real partnership between employers, educators, civic organizations and others who care about the long- term health of the community.” That philosophy aligns closely with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s regional education and workforce initiative with CivicLab, which is bringing together business, education and community leaders to create a shared strategy for strengthening Oklahoma City’s talent pipeline. As the Chamber continues that work, Funk’s perspective offers a look at what successful workforce partnerships look like in practice. BUILDING TOMORROW’S WORKFORCE STARTS TODAY
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That partnership can take many forms, from helping educators identify in-demand skills to providing students with greater exposure to career opportunities through internships, mentoring, career technology partnerships and classroom engagement. Funk said employers bring valuable real-world insight that helps ensure students understand the careers available to them and the skills those careers require. He pointed to the skilled trades as one example. As experienced workers retire and fewer young people enter those fields, demand continues to outpace supply despite the strong wages, long-term stability and meaningful careers many of those professions offer. Helping students understand those opportunities earlier can strengthen the workforce while creating better outcomes for employers and workers alike. Those ideas mirror the conversations taking place through the Chamber’s partnership with CivicLab. By bringing employers into the discussion alongside educators and community leaders, the initiative aims
to better align education with workforce needs while creating more opportunities for students to succeed and businesses to grow. Funk believes Oklahoma City has already demonstrated what long-term investment can accomplish. “Oklahoma City today is nearly unrecognizable compared to the city many of us knew just a few decades ago,” he said. “That did not happen by accident. It happened because people made intentional investments in this community and were willing to think beyond the next year or the next business cycle.” He believes the region’s next investment should continue to focus on its people. “My message to business leaders would be that education and workforce development are not separate from economic development. They are economic development,” Funk said. “If we want Oklahoma City to stay competitive, we have to keep investing in the people who will power its next chapter.”
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MORE THAN A MEMBERSHIP
Every business joins the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber for its own reasons. Some are looking to make connections while, others want to stay informed on issues affecting the business community or find ways to become more involved in shaping the region’s future. While every member’s experience is different, one thing remains consistent: the value of membership grows through engagement. Whether attending networking events, serving on committees, participating in leadership programs or lending a voice to advocacy efforts, Chamber members have opportunities to build relationships that extend well beyond a business card exchange. Those connections often lead to new partnerships, fresh perspectives and a stronger understanding of the initiatives driving Oklahoma City’s continued growth. For Greg Warlick, chief revenue officer and president of NexSpaces, those relationships have been one of the greatest benefits of membership.
“The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber has been instrumental in helping us build meaningful relationships throughout the business community,” Warlick said. “Through the Board of Advisors and Chamber events, we’ve connected with leaders across industries, created new opportunities for growth and gained valuable insight into the initiatives shaping our region. The Chamber does an outstanding job of bringing together people who are committed to making Oklahoma City a stronger place to do business.”
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Jolene Curry, business development director at Flintco, said the Chamber’s approach goes beyond simply bringing people into the same room. “The thing I appreciate the most about the Greater OKC Chamber is their approach to relationships. They get to know their members well and really try to connect members with each other,” Curry said. “This helps cultivate an atmosphere of collaboration and a welcoming spirit to all.” In addition to fostering meaningful connections, the Chamber serves as a strong advocate for Oklahoma City’s business community. From economic development and business recruitment to legislative priorities, the Chamber works to create an environment where businesses can succeed while helping advance the region as a whole. The OKC Chamber has been at the forefront of almost every driver of the growth and success of OKC for decades - Kermit Frank “We support and engage with the OKC Chamber for many reasons, but there are two that stand out for me,” said Kermit Frank, vice president of community and government affairs at Dolese. “The OKC Chamber has been at the forefront of almost every driver of the growth and success of OKC for decades, from the first MAPS, City of OKC bond issues and business recruitment and retention. Another vital role they play is advocacy. The Chamber’s government affairs staff has always been excellent advocates at the State Capitol and beyond for the best interest of business.” For Matt Richardson, president of Shellback General Contracting, membership has also provided an opportunity to become part of something bigger than his own business. “When I started Shellback, I knew I wanted to build more than a construction company — I wanted to be part of helping shape the future of Oklahoma City,” Richardson said. “Through the connections I’ve made with incredible business and community leaders and
getting involved in meaningful initiatives, I’ve been able to build relationships that are just as valuable as the business opportunities. We’re grateful to be part of an organization that genuinely cares about the success of our city and makes it fun to be engaged along the way.” That sense of shared investment is echoed by Robinson Park. “Robinson Park has greatly valued its Chamber membership and the meaningful connections it has helped us build across the Oklahoma business community,” said Kelley Chambers, director of research. “The Chamber creates opportunities to engage with fellow leaders, stay informed on issues shaping our region and participate in programs and events that strengthen both our business and the broader community. We are proud to be a member of an organization that plays such an important role in advancing regional growth and collaboration.” Whether members are building new partnerships, advocating for a stronger business climate or investing in the community’s future, Chamber membership offers opportunities to engage in the work that continues to move Oklahoma City forward. To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, contact Suzette Ellison at sellison@okcchamber.com.
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More than 70% of MAPS 4 funding is dedicated to neighborhood and human needs initiatives, with additional investments supporting parks, transit, economic development and other transformational projects across the city. As more projects move from planning to construction and completion, residents continue to see the vision approved by voters become reality. The Clara Luper Civil Rights Center is expected to open in 2028 and will be operated by the Freedom Center of Oklahoma City, creating a lasting home to preserve Oklahoma’s civil rights history and inspire future generations.
MAPS 4 CLARA LUPER CIVIL RIGHTS CENTER BREAKS GROUND
The MAPS 4 Clara Luper Civil Rights Center has officially broken ground, marking another milestone as voter-approved projects continue taking shape across Oklahoma City. The $17 million center will honor the legacy of educator and civil rights leader Clara Luper while creating a permanent space to preserve and share Oklahoma’s civil rights history. Located just south of the historic Freedom Center, the almost 18,000-square- foot facility will serve as an interpretive center and community gathering space, featuring exhibitions, classrooms and an event hall for educational programming, youth activities and public events. Named for the pioneering leader of Oklahoma City’s sit-in movement, the center will celebrate Luper’s lasting impact while telling the broader story of the state’s Civil Rights Movement. Outdoor storytelling elements and public art will further connect visitors to the site’s history and mission. The groundbreaking represents continued progress for MAPS 4, the voter-approved public improvement program that is investing more than $1 billion in projects designed to strengthen neighborhoods, improve quality of life and support Oklahoma City’s continued growth. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber led the campaign supporting MAPS 4, and milestones like the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center demonstrate the long- term impact of that investment.
Oklahoma City Ward 7 Councilman Camal Pennington visits with fellow attendees during the groundbreaking ceremony for the MAPS 4 Clara Luper Civil Rights Center.
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Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS
Thursday, July 30, 2026 Harmony Event Center 109 NW 85th St. OKC OK 73114
Friday, July 17, 2026 Revenite Financial Services 5909 NW Expressway, Suite 550 OKC OK 73132
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Businesses who join the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber are part of the largest coalition of businesses in the state and make the Chamber’s work in the community possible. Each member level is identified on the listing below.
ADVISOR
Oklahoma Smiles General Dentistry Dentists Dr. James Hulsey..........................(405) 546-1550 11320 N. Pennsylvania Avenue Oklahoma City, OK 73120 www.oklasmiles.com
Orr Family Farm Amusement / Entertainment / Attractions Ms. Shanain Kemp......................(405) 799-3276 14400 S. Western Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73170-7104 www.orrfamilyfarm.com
CORE
Eote Coffee Shop Restaurants Mr. Patrick Will.................................(405) 833-2179 7 NE 6th St., Suite 10 Oklahoma City, OK 73104-1852 www.eotecoffee.com Flowerama #186 Florists Mr. Kevin Martin..............................(405) 787-0100 5040 N. MacArthur Blvd. Warr Acres, OK 73122-5018 www.floweramaokc.com Harmony Event Center Meeting / Banquet Facilities Ms. Peggy Hibbler.....................(405) 200-6708 109 NW 85th St. Oklahoma City, OK 73114 www.unisonokc.com/harmony
Nivale Capital Management, LLC Investment Management Services Investments Mr. Garrett Hull...............................(405) 757-0504 12352 Market Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73114-8136 www.nivalecapital.com PECK Commercial Construction Construction Companies Mr. Collins Peck..............................(405) 923-8591 4 E. Sheridan Ave., Suite 200 P.O. Box 1041
PREP (Predictive Employment Placement) Employment - Career Training & Career Placement Employment Agencies Mr. Samuel Crabtree..................(405) 226-9861
System One Holdings, LLC Employment Agencies Mr. James Kelley............................(918) 836-1900 8908 S. Yale Ave., Suite 440 Tulsa, OK 74137-3512 systemone.com T.E.S.S, Counseling Mental Health Services Ms. Jennifer Blume.........................(405) 215-9151 101 Park Ave. Suite 340 1700 S. Boulevard, Suite B Edmond, OK 73013 www.tesscounseling.org
7725 W. Reno Ave., Suite 400 Oklahoma City, OK 73127-9806 www.prephiring.com Preservan
Home Improvement / Remodeling / Repairs Mr. Travis Phibbs...........................(405) 546-9627 115 E. Calfornia Ave., Suite 340 Oklahoma City, OK 73104 preservan.com Showbiz Cinemas Theatres Mr. Chad Weemhoff....................(405) 638-3013 3001 Market St. Edmond, OK 73034 https://edmond.showbizcinemas.com/sb-hom
Oklahoma City, OK 73101-1041 www.peck-construction.com
PLD Transport, Inc. Transportation - Logistics Mr. Ron Stone.................................(501) 467-3900 2099 Haltom Road
Malvern, AR 72104-2100 www.pldtransportinc.com
MEMBER UPGRADES The following member companies increased their investment in the Chamber, demonstrating strong support of the Chamber’s efforts to drive the region’s economy. To increase your investment, contact the Membership Division of the Chamber at 405-297-8949 or membership@okcchamber.com.
SENIOR PARTNER++
ADVISOR
Oklahoma City - County Health Dept. / OCCHD Health Services Dr. Patrick McGough...................(405) 427-8651 2600 NE 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73111 www.occhd.org
ThrivePoint Academy of Oklahoma Schools - Public Ms. Mindy Direen.........................(580) 645-2812 600 N. Robinson Ave., 5th floor Oklahoma City, OK 73102 www.thrivepointoklahoma.com
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ECONOMIC INDICATORS
OKLAHOMA CITY RANKS #5 BEST TRAFFIC WORLDWIDE Traffic Rankings by Driving Distance of Worldwide Cities
AVG. DISTANCE DRIVEN (MILES) IN 15 MIN
AVERAGE CONGESTION
AVERAGE SPEED (IN MPH)
RANK
CITY
1
THOUSAND OAKS, CA
10.6 10.6 10.6 10.4 10.4 10.3 10.3 10.2
24.7% 20.7% 20.6% 13.6% 18.2% 13.6% 13.3%
42.6 42.4 42.3 41 .8 41 .4 41 .3 41 .3 40.7 40.5
2 3 4 5 6
MESA, AZ
FRESNO, CA
TULSA, OK
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK
WICHITA, KS
7
COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA
8 9
OMAHA, NE
14%
SALT LAKE CITY, UT
10.1
21 .8% 16.5%
10
LITTLE ROCK, AR
10.0 40.1 Source: Traffic Index ranking | TomTom Traffic Index, US Census ACS 2024 1 Year Survey, US Census OnTheMap
• Oklahoma City ranked #5 among 492 cities worldwide for the longest average distance you can drive in 15 minutes. Oklahoma City also ranks strong in the related categories of % of average congestion and average speed of traffic. • These rankings are based on the TomTom Traffic Index, which evaluates cities around the world by their average travel time and congestion level.
• Congestion % is determined by the difference between free-flow or optimal traffic conditions and actual travel time. • US American Community Survey shows OKC workers average 22 minutes in their daily commute. • OnTheMap shows that 1 out of every 3 people in the Greater OKC region works in a different county from where they live.
For comprehensive Economic Indicator and Regional Data, please visit your Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Economic Development Division at www.greateroklahomacity.com/economicindicators or contact Eric Long, Research Economist, at 405-297-8976; elong@okcchamber.com DID YOU KNOW? Get regional demographic data, consumer expenditure information, labor force data for the Greater Oklahoma City Region and more at greateroklahomacity.com.
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MARK BEFFORT Robinson Park; Vice Chair, Economic Development CLAY BENNETT Dorchester Capital; Vice Chair, Strategic Planning BOB FUNK JR. Express Employment Professionals; Vice Chair, Education & Talent DAVID HARLOW BancFirst; Vice Chair, Safe Community Initiatives BILL LANCE The Chickasaw Nation; Vice Chair, Government Relations JENNY LOVE MEYER Love’s Travel Stops; Vice Chair, Marketing & Communications 2026 OFFICERS
MIKE ROSS America Fidelity Assurance Company Corporate; Board Chair TERESA ROSE One Heartbeat Foundation; Immediate Past Chair; Vice Chair, Membership JOHN HART Continental Resources; Treasurer RHONDA HOOPER Jordan Advertising; Corporate Secretary CHRISTY GILLENWATER Greater Oklahoma City Chamber; President & CEO
RICK MUNCRIEF Muncrief Capital Management; Vice Chair, Innovation & Life Sciences LARRY NICHOLS Devon Energy Corporation; Vice Chair, FOKC & Community Issue Campaigns KENT SHORTRIDGE Oklahoma Natural Gas Company; Vice Chair, Transportation Initiatives SEAN TRAUSCHKE OGE Energy Corp.; Vice Chair, Convention & Visitors Development & LA28 TONY TYLER Tyler Media; Vice Chair, County Government & Criminal Justice
ISSUE #3617 - August 2026
Editorial staff Lynzee Misseldine, Lindsay Vidrine Designer Billy Callan 405-297-8900 okcchamber.com twitter.com/okcchamber
facebook.com/okcchamber VeloCity (ISSN 1075-6264) is published monthly by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VeloCity, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 or e-mail thepoint@okcchamber.com.
SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year included in Chamber membership; nonmembers, $25 per year within the U.S.. Periodicals Postage paid at Oklahoma City. Advertising rates upon request. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Tuesday, Sept. 1, 2026, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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