Oklahoma City's long-awaited renovation of Union Station is finally on the verge of becoming more than just a talking point. City staff have recommended a $16 million construction contract that is headed to the City Council, a key step toward turning the historic depot at the south end of Scissortail Park into event space and offices after years of planning and delays.
As reported by The Oklahoman, the MAPS office is forwarding a $16 million construction contract and is also asking for an additional $4 million in tax-increment financing to help cover costs. David Todd, director of the city's MAPS office, told the paper he expects construction crews to be on site by fall if the council signs off on the deal.
About the Building and the Plan
Union Station, a Spanish Mission-style depot that opened in 1931, anchors the south end of Scissortail Park and has been wrapped into MAPS planning for years. According to Scissortail Park, the station currently houses park administration and is slated for restoration as a public gathering place and event venue.
Bid History and Budget Changes
The renovation was advertised as MAPS 3 project M3-P019 and went through a public bidding phase in 2024, with planroom listings and construction databases tracking specifications and addenda. Those records show earlier budget estimates in the low to mid single-digit millions, roughly $11.5 million in some listings, before scope changes, contingencies and final bids pushed the contract amount higher. Project documents and bid packets are available in public planrooms. RPG Planroom lists the solicitation as M3-P019 at the Union Station site.
What Officials Say and What's Next
City officials say the work will restore original finishes while making the building usable for weddings, small conferences and regular park programming. David Todd told The Oklahoman that crews could be on site by fall if the council approves the contract this month, and that the added tax-increment financing would help fund interior finishes and infrastructure upgrades. Backers argue the renovation will finally activate a long-delayed MAPS project and add a year-round venue to downtown Oklahoma City.
Council Consideration and Timeline
City staff are expected to present the contract for council consideration in the coming weeks. If it is approved, officials say they will lock in a construction schedule during preconstruction and provide regular progress updates. Park leaders expect the restored depot to boost event capacity at Scissortail Park and create additional revenue for park programming once the doors reopen.
