The Oklahoma City MAPS Investment and Operating Trust meeting held on May 19, 2025, focused on several key projects aimed at enhancing community services and infrastructure. The meeting began with a discussion on the Clara Luper Civil Rights Center, which has received a $17 million allocation. The Freedom Center will operate the facility, and a preliminary report is set to be presented to the council.
The agenda continued with updates on the Family Justice Center, which recently broke ground and will provide essential services for mental health and homelessness. This three-story, 70,000 square-foot facility is expected to be completed in about a year. The meeting also highlighted the ongoing construction of the Diversion Hub on Linwood Boulevard, which aims to support individuals facing homelessness.
Further discussions included the crisis center, which will offer short-term support for individuals in need, and the restoration center, which is currently in the design phase and will focus on addiction services. The need for operators for these facilities was emphasized, with plans for a request for proposals (RFP) to be issued for supportive housing.
The meeting also addressed the beautification efforts across the city, including a master plan that will introduce various enhancements, such as a garden honoring Bessie Coleman at the airport. Transit projects were discussed, including the development of bus rapid transit (BRT) routes and improvements to bus stop shelters.
In terms of connectivity, the meeting outlined ongoing sidewalk and bike lane projects, with several already under construction. The Innovation District was highlighted, with the completion of Innovation Hall and plans for further improvements in the area.
Neighborhood initiatives were also a focus, particularly the development of new youth centers that will provide mentoring and STEM activities, rather than traditional sports facilities. The parks master plan was approved, with improvements expected in 107 neighborhood parks.
Lastly, the Animal Welfare Center project was introduced, which will expand the existing facility and include a full animal clinic. The meeting concluded with updates on the venue subcommittee, which is working on designs for a multi-purpose stadium and other facilities.
Overall, the meeting underscored Oklahoma City's commitment to leveraging investments for community development, with multiple projects aimed at improving quality of life for residents. The next steps include finalizing designs and securing operators for various facilities, with further reports expected in the coming months.