Welcome Guide 2024_FB

Oklahoma City A B OU T

ABOUT THE REGION Oklahoma is a state of stunning diversity, with the nation’s most varied terrain—featuring 11 ecoregions, four mountain ranges, and more man-made lakes than any other state. The Greater Oklahoma City region, located in the heart of the state, offers easy access to all that Oklahoma has to offer. With a rich history and a welcoming spirit, Oklahoma is a place where anything is possible.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., with a population of approximately 1.4 million, Oklahoma City is a place where excitement and progress are visible at every turn. From our revitalizing downtown to our charming, historic neighborhoods and districts, the city's transformation is in full swing. What makes Oklahoma City truly special is the combination of our rapid growth and the warmth of our famously friendly residents. Add to that the entrepreneurial spirit of our leaders and a diverse, resilient economy, and you have a community that is cherished by its people and admired by cities across the nation. Our expanding economy provides a strong foundation, enabling Oklahoma City to play an increasingly important role in the global marketplace. Public investments and large-scale projects have fueled our city’s renaissance, helping to establish Oklahoma City as not only a thriving urban hub but also a fantastic place to live, work, and play. There’s no city in America more mission-driven, more united, or more committed to progress—and that commitment is evident everywhere you look. From the energy of urban life to the tranquility of suburban living, Oklahoma City makes it all possible—and makes it easy. Whether you're in cowboy boots or a business suit, Oklahoma City offers a place of common ground. We are proud to embrace our “Modern Frontier” identity— honoring our roots while paving the way for a future defined by innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunity.

To learn more, visit TravelOK.com.

THE MAPS IMPACT Oklahoma City’s transformation is a story of bold vision and community-driven progress. After a challenging decade in the 1980s, city leaders knew that if Oklahoma City didn’t invest in its future, no one else would. The solution: a game-changing initiative known as the Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS), which began with a vote on Dec. 14, 1993. Residents approved a temporary penny sales tax to fund nine transformative projects that would reshape the city’s future. The original MAPS program funded key projects including renovations to the convention center, performing arts center, and fairgrounds; the construction of a 15,000-seat ballpark, a mile-long canal, a 20,000-seat arena, and a downtown library; and improvements along the Oklahoma River. This investment has had a lasting impact, generating over $7 billion in economic return.

Beyond the numbers, MAPS has made a profound difference in Oklahoma City’s identity. The original program

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