Metropolitan Area Projects
When Mayor Ron Norrick proposed the MAPS initiatives in 1992, a number of Oklahoma City residents were skeptical. It was nearly impossible to imagine the positive results that could come. There was resistance, but sales tax to fund city renovations and construction was passed. And it may be fair to say it began a rebirth for Oklahoma City.Downtown Oklahoma City has become an incredible commercial district today. "Bricktown" features sports, arts, education, restaurants and entertainment. It has been largely responsible for the rejuvenation of Oklahoma's capital and figures to become even more popular for residents and tourists in the coming years.
Interrupted by Tragedy
Oklahoma City was experiencing a wonderful period of time when Timothy McVeigh parked a truck full of explosives in front of the Alfred P. Murrah federal building in downtown Oklahoma City on April 19, 1995. The explosion would be felt miles from the city. By the time anyone even knew what had happened, 168 people were dead and a building stood cut in half by the horror.For a full history of the Oklahoma City bombing, see this excellent article by About.com guide Jennifer Rosenberg.
Although the pain of the experience will live forever in the hearts of the city, the year 2000 brought the beginning of the healing. The Oklahoma City National Memorial was erected on the very ground where the federal building once stood. It continues to offer solace and peace for every visitor and resident of Oklahoma City.
