City Officials Break Ground On OKC Fairgrounds Coliseum

City Officials break ground on the first MAPS 4 project to begin construction, the Oklahoma City Fairgrounds Coliseum.

The event Wednesday in front of the Jim Norick Arena signaled the beginning of construction on the $126 million project.

Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt says it also brings in a new era.

“MAPS 4’s big year is starting now and it is continuing into the next decade,” Mayor Holt said.

The new coliseum will be greater than 216,000 square feet and is expected to be completed in 2025.

The Jim Norick Arena will continue to host events until the coliseum is opened.

The Jim Norick Arena will be 60-years-old when it finally comes down. 

In addition to horse shows, rodeos and state basketball tournaments, the venue hosted Elvis Pressley and Led Zeppelin.

The Jim Norick Arena also served as a launching point for the career of Reba McEntire who was invited to sing the National Anthem before the National Finals Rodeo in 1974.