Mayor Holt Says It's Time For A New Arena During State Of The City Address

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt said that we need a new arena for the Thunder!

That was one of several ideas he shared in his State of the City address Thursday.

Mayor Holt spent a good amount of time talking about the Oklahoma City Thunder basketball team and the way pro-sports has helped launch OKC into becoming the 20th largest city in the U.S.

"This gave us something to change the way the world sees us and to change the way we see ourselves. For the first time for many around the country and the world knew we existed, " said Holt.

He said now it is time for a new arena.

The Thunder have an agreement to play in OKC through the 2025-2026 season, but Holt said if we want to keep the team here long-term a new arena is a must.

The arena would take years to develop and build. In the meantime, Thunder Alley upgrades and anything non-essential will be put on pause. That way the money can go toward a new space.

Holt also talked about the next phases of MAPS as MAPS 3 comes to a close.

This September, Scissortail Park will double in size.

They are also working on several senior centers.

Holt said the first groundbreaking for MAPS 4 projects will begin this fall.

This plan is focused on neighborhood and human needs. It will include youth centers, more park upgrades, mental health and addiction facilities.

Holt also made a push for voters to consider the OKCPS bond issue. This would be a $600 to $900 million-dollar bond that would go toward upgrades like new schools and new programs for students and more.

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