OKPOP Museum, Retail Development Considered For Brady District Lot

Two proposals were reviewed by the Tulsa Development Authority Tuesday for the empty lot across from ONEOK Field.

The two ideas may be very different, but both aim to bring the same benefits to downtown Tulsa.

A few months back, the Tulsa Development Authority asked for ideas on what to do with the $1.4 million site in the heart of the Brady District.

Unveiled Tuesday, one proposal would make it the site of the OKPOP museum - six stories tall with two levels of parking.

“When the TDA property lot 44 became available, and its proximity to the ballpark, we felt like that was very advantageous to what we want to do,” said OKPOP executive director, Jeff Moore.

But, if the development authority can't donate the land, OKPOP calls it a “showstopper.”

The second proposal comes from Pine Place development out of Texas; they envision what would be called the B.C. Franklin Building - a $50 million venture housing office, retail and banquet space.

“This boils down to highest and best use, and whether or not we can maximize this particular location for the greater benefit that comes back,” said Michael Smith with Pine Place Development.

As for OKPOP, this isn't the only possible site for it. The Bank of Oklahoma parking lot, which would be donated, is still an option; and, apparently, those aren't the only locations under consideration.

Bob Blackburn with the Oklahoma Historical Society said, “There are other options, but we would like to have the conversation with you and the board about if it is the right place and where you see this. Is it the most sustainable, and will it make the greatest impact on Tulsa and the community?”

The TDA asked each group to put together an economic impact report to help them make a better decision, which is expected to happen next month.