Stop Comparing Charlotte

All of us are ecstatic over the new 900+ ft-tall tower being built in Downtown OKC. Those of us that were already ecstatic over OKC’s urban rebirth are proud of the things that makes OKC a somewhat unique city. Despite tearing down more historic buildings than almost any other city during the "Urban Renewal" period, there is still a rich tapestry of "old" buildings 110-60 years old.

Beautiful buildings and areas that have matured over time enough to provide a true sense of place, meaning that you can walk down North Broadway or around Bricktown and you would know, "Ah-ha! I am in OKC."

Many other Sun Belt cities would consider themselves lucky to have such an impressive area as Bricktown, Automobile Alley, or the Walker Circle in MidTown. What’s vital is that all of these areas are bustling epicenters of activity at all times of the day, even MidTown which was once so desolate St. Anthony’s was threatening to move to SW 119th and May (remember that?).

Yes, it’s possible that the new Devon Tower can do for OKC what Bank of America’s gleaming supertall did for Charlotte, but don’t compare us to that city. Charlotte has little in the way of significant, landmark-esque buildings that are mature. It’s certain that 50 years from now Charlotte will have a veritable mature, urban environment, but it will take time for that city’s surroundings to feel more lived-in, or worn a bit. This is for two reasons: 1, Charlotte was much smaller than OKC until a few decades ago; and 2, Charlotte is still tearing down the old to make way for the new.

We’ve learned our lesson, so we’ll let them learn their lesson. But don’t compare us to Charlotte, because OKC will never be the next Charlotte. I don’t mind the comparisons one bit, but the Charlotte one that’s been running rampant lately is over the top. Instead, here’s some fodder for comparisons: Indianapolis, Cleveland, Austin, Omaha, and Louisville. Have fun.