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Developers scoop up downtown properties
Q&A with developer Winfield 'Scott' Gibson
Major plans are in the works for the Fire Block District, a chunk of downtown born out of the famed Great 1913 Flood that devastated the city.
We took a tour of the district with Winfield "Scott" Gibson and Austin Sprenkel to discuss progress and upcoming plans.
Gibson, a developer and partner at The Ellway Group, is working to redevelop the collection of buildings in the district bordered by Second Street, St. Clair St., Fourth Street and Jefferson Street. This includes the Dickey building at 124 E. Third St., the Huffman Block Building at 111 to 129 E. Third Street and the Elks Building.
So what does the future look like for the Fire Block District?
The Ellway Group's plans include roughly 75 housing units in the Huffman block building, ground floor retail space, an upscale restaurant operated by The Idea Collective of Oklahoma City near Century Bar's planned speakeasy, office space and a penthouse level clubhouse for residents with a patio overlooking the city. Gibson said the space at 117 E. Third St. will be rented as a "DIY spot" for bands' performances, art shows and other events in the short term.
Developers hope to receive tax credits and start work on the Huffman apartments this summer. Demolition work could start as early as May, so stay tuned for more updates.
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