My 2 Cents: Devon Energy Center's Grand Opening

Do you remember back in 2008 the skepticism that greeted the rumors that Devon Energy was planning to build a big new skyscraper downtown?

And I confess, I had my doubts too. Every time oil prices dipped I heard grumbling that surely this would doom all the pie-in-the-sky Devon Tower talk.

Then, in August of '08 Chairman Larry Nichols revealed the actual plan for the Devon Energy Center. It was astounding, and so was the confidence he exuded that it would happen, just as it was drawn up.

$750 million, 850 feet tall, I mean Oklahoma City was on the rise, but this dream was grandiose by any standard.

But Wednesday night I can attest after walking through the massive marble rotunda, after an ear popping elevator ride up to the 50th floor restaurant, a tour through the state of the art fitness facility. Larry Nichols is a man of his word.

And as preposterous as his vision seemed 4 years ago, what he actually accomplished is far more impressive. The Devon Energy Center is overwhelming in stature to be sure, but it's the attention to detail that makes it a work of art.

I really encourage you to plan a lunch at the first floor Nebu cafeteria or maybe a dinner at the sky-high Vast Restaurant, and see for yourself what three quarters of a billion dollars gets you.