Oklahoma City is set to transform a key area of its urban landscape with a substantial federal grant for transit-oriented development. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has announced a $975,000 planning grant for the Classen Boulevard corridor from NW 10th Street to NW 48th Street, according to the City of Oklahoma City. This funding aims to develop a plan that encourages new development, affordable housing, and better access for pedestrians and cyclists along the Northwest Bus Rapid Transit (RAPID NW) line.
The grant will be utilized to appoint a consultant responsible for developing this plan with input from various stakeholders, residents, and businesses. According to Ward 2 Councilperson James Cooper, the boulevard historically catered to more than the rush-hour traffic, being a conduit for people’s needs. "People of all income levels live along Classen’s neighborhoods, and most of them tell me we must make Classen a Boulevard for people again – not only to move automobiles during rush hour," Cooper told the City of Oklahoma City. He highlighted the area's rich past and its future potential for transit-oriented development to address current housing issues and celebrate local heritage.
The City Council has taken steps to further incentivize development through a Tax Increment Finance (TIF) District established in March along the corridor. This grant will be particularly pivotal for involving local community members and business owners in shaping a collective vision for the area. Planning Director Geoff Butler underscored the importance of executing these changes in an equitable manner, claiming, "The Classen Corridor is already a great place but has so much more potential. We are entering an exciting time for the area," in a statement obtained by the City of Oklahoma City.
Transit-oriented development focuses on revitalizing urban areas while increasing public transportation use and supporting economic growth. It will enhance access for pedestrians and cyclists to the RAPID NW stations, making commutes easier and potentially reducing reliance on cars. Through the grant, "RAPID NW is providing residents a new, convenient public transit option along our 9.5-mile route connecting the NW corridor to downtown OKC," as Transit Director Jesse Rush claimed in a statement to City of Oklahoma City, highlighting the benefits of the project for the community's mobility.
