OKC Plan, 2000-2020 - City of Oklahoma City

Develop vacant parcels with appropriate infill construction that is consistent with the character
of the district and differentiated from the historic fabric. This development is subject to existing
historic preservation design review.
Review traffic patterns and related environment with the intent of finding and implementing
solutions to changing transportation needs while retaining the unique character of each historic
districts.
Work with building code officials to identify and implement alternate regulations with the intent
of preserving historic structures while achieving the intent and purposes of current and future
codes affecting life/safety issues.
Work with City officials to insure that any infrastructure improvements that effect the character
of the district respond to existing design guidelines.
Non-Residential Buildings and Districts
The character of a great city is, to many, defined by its commercial districts, particularly its
downtown. Although half of Oklahoma City’s downtown core was demolished in the 1970s,
significant buildings remain. Recent capital expenditures in the downtown core and Bricktown have
already resulted in a noticeable increase in economic activity there.
Neighborhood commercial districts are part of the identity of, and provide amenities for, their nearby
residential areas. Three historic commercial districts (Stockyards City, Automobile Alley, and
Capitol Hill) have established Main Street programs, utilizing organization, historic design
guidelines, economic restructuring, and promotion activities.
Government facilities are important visual elements in the cityscape. Included are facilities of the
city, county, state, and federal governments, as well as schools. They include such diverse elements
as parks, bridges, schools, dams, airports, and water works, as well as public buildings. Many of
these facilities retain their historic integrity.
Directions
Document and preserve significant historic non-residential buildings and districts.
Use incentives, as well as regulations to facilitate preservation.
Actions
Inventory and establish design review for significant commercial, public, and educational
buildings and districts.
Prioritize those historic properties based on significance, integrity and endangerment.
Develop local tax incentives, including business improvement districts, tax increment financing,
and rebates specifically designed to serve historic preservation goals. Promote federal historic
tax credits.
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