Target Housing Site
The target housing site for this plan is Will Rogers Courts, made up of 348 units in 85 buildings, built in 1939. Will Rogers Courts is OCHA's oldest public housing development, and it has had limited upgrades since it was first built. The buildings have structural and design deficiencies, they've reached the end of their useful life, and they are not safe or livable for residents. Will Rogers Courts concentrates households with lower incomes, rather than mixing housing for people with a range of incomes. Despite these issues, Will Rogers Courts maintains a high occupancy rate, because the need for affordable housing in Oklahoma City continues to grow.
Westwood Exchange Neighborhood
The target neighborhood includes Stockyards City Main Street. Located in the National Register of Historic Places, Stockyards City's historic commercial district is a regional destination with western-themed retailers and restaurants, rodeo-themed attractions, and events including the Stockyards Stampeded and Cowboy Christmas. The area also includes a number of commercial and light industrial businesses and employers.
The neighborhood also includes a number of large green spaces and parks. River Park, Elm Grove Park, and South Rotary Park are located within the boundary; however, the parks are not actively programmed.
The transformation planning process will identify what is needed to fill in gaps and make this a neighborhood of choice - schools, retail, public spaces, economic opportunities, safety, mobility, and placemaking.