During a recent government meeting, officials discussed two key items that will proceed to the planning commission and subsequently to the city council agenda, although no votes were taken at this time. The first item involved a proposed right-of-way closure for property owned by the Urban Renewal Authority, located south of Shawnee Street in the Factory Edition.

The discussion highlighted the need to close certain streets within the urban renewal area to facilitate community and economic development. Specifically, the closure will affect a 15-foot alley in the middle of Block Five of the Thackeray Addition, as well as portions of Miller, Martin, and Fifth Streets. This initiative aims to promote economic opportunities in the area, with utility companies OG&E and AT&T already agreeing to relocate their lines to accommodate the changes.

The process for closing these streets involves notifying all relevant utility holders and property owners within a 300-foot radius, which has been completed. A public hearing is scheduled for August 19, 2024, where the planning commission will make an official recommendation to the city council. Following council approval, the matter will proceed to district court for finalization.

This meeting served as an informational session, laying the groundwork for future discussions and actions regarding urban development in the area.