Oklahoma City, OK – Oklahoma City’s historic Britton District has undergone a significant transformation, unveiling a series of streetscape and safety improvements aimed at revitalizing the area. Local business owners and residents are praising the changes, which are already having a positive impact on the community.
The revitalization efforts were made possible by a $6.6 million investment funded through the 2017 Better Streets, Safer City Bond election. The improvements, which include enhanced ADA access, new street striping, resurfaced roads, additional parking, and the installation of benches, bike racks, shade trees, and lighting, have made the district more accessible and inviting.
Nicholas Hampson, co-owner of Orange Peel Vintage, a business in the district, expressed his excitement over the revitalization. Hampson, who grew up in the area, remembers the district’s bustling past during the 1950s through the 1980s. “This place has just exploded and it’s really coming back to life,” Hampson said. “It was completely boarded up for years, but now, after all the hard work, it feels like the district is thriving again.”
The improvements have also focused on pedestrian safety. Local residents like Shasta, a nearby resident, have noted how much safer the new sidewalks feel. “You don’t have to be afraid when you’re walking, thinking that the cars are going to hit you because you’re away from them,” she said. The new crosswalks and streetscape are among Hampson’s favorite improvements, adding that the changes may even prevent accidents in the future. “It’s probably going to save a life,” he remarked.
Paul Little, of Paul Little Construction, emphasized that while traffic remains steady in the area, the new streetscape has contributed positively to business. “It brings focus down here,” Little said. “It’s more inviting and welcoming.” The enhanced streetscape has created a more pedestrian-friendly environment, which Little believes is benefiting local businesses as people take more notice of the area while sitting in traffic.
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new improvements, credited patience and persistence for making the revitalization possible. “Persistence and patience is how you get things done,” Holt said.
With the completion of these extensive improvements, the Britton District is poised for continued growth, helping local businesses thrive and bringing renewed energy to the neighborhood.
