en español
Oklahoma City Council voted today to approve a master plan for the MAPS 4 Beautification project. MAPS 4 includes $32.9 million to help improve the appearance of Oklahoma City with targeted investments in beautification, including $5 million for an operating fund to provide permanent staff dedicated to beautification and ongoing maintenance. The project will elevate daily experiences for residents and improve first impressions for visitors.
In the 2019 MAPS 4 resolution, City Council identified areas that may be included in the plan to receive beautification improvements such as gardens, plazas, gateways, bridge enhancements, murals, landscaping, artwork and more. The first phase of the project included developing the master plan and $5 million to acquire land at NE 23rd St. and MLK Ave. The master plan recommends beautification improvements for the following areas:
Phase 2
- Route 66-inspried public art at NW 23rd and Classen
- Bessie Coleman Garden and approaches to OKC Will Rogers International Airport
- I-44: State Highway 152 to I-40
- State Highway 152: Meridian Ave to I-44
- Eastern Ave. and Reno Ave.: Bricktown to First Americans Museum (FAM)
Phase 3
- SW 24th St. pedestrian bridge over I-44
- Woodson Park pedestrian Bridge over I-44
- Blackwelder Ave. pedestrian bridge over I-240
- City entrances
- Trees
Phase 4
- Statue of Ralph Ellison
- East entrance of Clara Luper Corridor
- West entrance of Clara Luper Corridor
- Trees
Phase 5
- I-40 & Council Rd. Interchange
- I-44: Portland Ave. to Classen Blvd.
- I-44 & N Youngs Blvd.
- I-44 & N Pennsylvania Ave.
- I-240: I-44 to I-35
Guernsey developed the master plan, which identifies a vision strategy, beautification principles, project prioritization and phasing. The projects were prioritized based on their potential impact, cultural significance and community feedback.
An eight-month public engagement process informed the plan, which involved more than 3,500 residents through surveys, focus groups and public events. The plan is guided by principles that prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, connectivity and functionality.
Recommended improvements could include seating, shade structures, interactive art, creative signage or lighting, trees and native landscaping. The plan recommends the use of low-maintenance, sustainable materials to ensure long-term viability and minimal upkeep.
“MAPS 4 Beautification project will focus on highlighting local culture, supporting tourism, and promoting sustainable practices in order to create positive impressions on both residents and visitors,” MAPS Program Manager David Todd said. “The master plan outlines how the projects will not only enhance the city’s appearance but also serve practical purposes such as elevating pedestrian experiences, providing shade and promoting social interaction.”
The MAPS 4 Beautification projects will be constructed in phases, with projects being rolled out progressively from 2025 to 2028.
Visit okc.gov/maps4 to learn more.
About MAPS 4
MAPS 4 is a debt-free public improvement program funded by a temporary penny sales tax that will raise a projected $1.07 billion over eight years. Oklahoma City voters approved the sales tax to fund MAPS 4 in a special election on Dec. 10, 2019, moving forward with a unique and ambitious plan to transform our community. The temporary penny sales tax funding MAPS 4 began April 1, 2020, and ends in 2028. More than 70 percent of MAPS 4 funding is dedicated to neighborhood and human needs. The rest is for quality of life and job-creating initiatives. The MAPS 4 Citizens Advisory Board and its six subcommittees will guide MAPS 4 planning and implementation, making recommendations to the City Council. The Council has final authority on MAPS 4. The MAPS Investment and Operating Trust developed a strategic investment plan to support long-term sustainable funding for MAPS 4 projects' operational expenses and maintenance. Visit okc.gov/maps4 for more.
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Media Contact: Kristy Yager, (405) 297-2550, kristy.yager@okc.gov
