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In a surprising turn of events, developers have announced plans to construct a towering skyscraper in Oklahoma City that would become the tallest building in the United States and the fifth tallest in the world . This ambitious project, known as the Legends Tower, would stand at a staggering height of 1,907 feet, surpassing even the renowned Freedom Tower at One World Trade Center in New York City . While the proposal may seem unconventional given Oklahoma City’s status as the 20th largest city in the US, the developers believe that the city’s growth and potential make it a suitable location for such an iconic structure. However, skepticism regarding financing, zoning regulations, and the demand for such a massive undertaking remains.
The Vision Behind the Legends Tower
The Legends Tower is part of a larger mixed-use development project called the Boardwalk at Bricktown, which aims to transform the Lower Bricktown area of Oklahoma City into a vibrant hub of residential, retail, and entertainment offerings. Covering over 3 acres, the development is set to include two Hyatt hotels, condos, apartments, stores, restaurants, a lagoon, and a boardwalk. The developers envision the Legends Tower as an iconic destination that will drive economic expansion, attract investment, and create employment opportunities. With plans for a public observatory, restaurant, and bar on the top floors, visitors will be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
A City on the Rise
Despite initial skepticism, the developers argue that Oklahoma City’s recent growth and investments in infrastructure make it a viable candidate for a project of this magnitude. Oklahoma City experienced a population increase of nearly 2% between 2020 and 2022, and it was one of the 14 US cities that added over 100,000 people between 2010 and 2020. The city’s commitment to expanding as a major metropolitan area, exemplified by the recent approval of a new arena for the NBA’s Oklahoma City Thunder, further supports the developers’ vision for the Legends Tower and the surrounding Boardwalk at Bricktown.
Financing and Zoning Challenges
While the developers are optimistic about the project, financing the Legends Tower presents a significant challenge, especially considering the premium costs associated with constructing such a tall building. The estimated cost of the entire development project, including the tower, is $1.6 billion, with $770 million allocated for the tower alone. To secure funding, the developers are pursuing various sources, including subsidies approved by the city and additional state and federal funding. However, skeptics, including economists and architectural experts, question the feasibility of attracting enough investment to support such an unprecedented project in Oklahoma City.
Zoning regulations also pose a hurdle for the developers, as the current maximum allowed height for buildings in the designated area is 300 feet. To proceed with the Legends Tower, the developers will need to obtain a rezoning approval from the city. This process involves submitting a new application and obtaining recommendations from the Planning Commission and final approval from the City Council.
The Impact on Oklahoma City
If the Legends Tower becomes a reality, it would dramatically reshape Oklahoma City’s skyline and solidify its position as a growing metropolitan area. However, some experts express concerns about the market demand for such a tall building, especially in a city with a population significantly smaller than those of New York City or Chicago, which are home to the tallest buildings in the US. The success of the Legends Tower would depend on the city’s ability to attract residents, businesses, and tourists to fill the vast space it offers.
Supporters of the project highlight the potential benefits for Oklahoma City, including the addition of nearly 2,000 urban residential housing units, which would enhance the city’s housing mix and contribute to its urban development. The Oklahoma City Council has already approved significant tax increment financing of $200 million for the project, demonstrating local support for the ambitious endeavor.
Conclusion
The Legends Tower project in Oklahoma City is a bold and ambitious venture that aims to challenge the traditional notion of where the tallest buildings belong. If successful, the tower would not only become the tallest in the United States but also a symbol of Oklahoma’s growth and progress as a major metropolitan area 1. However, the path to realizing this vision is paved with challenges, including financing, zoning regulations, and the ability to attract sufficient demand for such a massive development. As the developers continue to pursue their dream of constructing the tallest building in the US, only time will tell whether the Legends Tower will become an iconic addition to Oklahoma City’s skyline.
