Design Group Plans Development Along Oklahoma River

Plans are well underway to build a new community at the former Downtown Airpark along the Oklahoma River.

Developers say the "Wheeler District" will soon be an important part of Oklahoma City.

It's a project that's been talked about for years, but it's only started to really come together in the past several months.

An entire design studio has been dedicated to the planning of what will be one of Oklahoma City's premier communities along the Oklahoma River.

“We ask the citizens, neighbors in the area, people who have to live with the result what they’d like to see there,” Developer Victor Dover said.

Dover and Lead Developer Blair Humphreys says the idea is to get as much input from the community as possible.

Nearly 300 people came out to last night's “Hands-On” design session.

“There’s a view of the downtown skyline, you can walk to things, bike to things," said Dover. "So, if you want to live the walkable, bikeable lifestyle, close in, you can do it here.”

The new development will take over the old Airpark on the west side of Western Avenue, south of the Oklahoma River. There will also be development on the east side of Western.

“We know that there will be a big variety," said Dover. "It includes things like townhouses and brownstones, apartments, and say a courtyard apartment building, cottages and small houses on small lots.”

Dover says the Wheeler District will be a unique community for those who seek an urban experience.

“Oklahoma City stands out for this emerging group of young professionals who are creating businesses and starting careers and dreaming up ideas,” Dover said.

Dover says the old Santa Monica Pier ferris wheel, an American classic from the California coast, will find a home in the new district. It was shipped to Oklahoma City, restored and equipped with a whole new lighting system.

There's an open house set for this Saturday at the Design Studio, located at 215 S. Walker.

The planning team welcomes the community's input on the new district.