SerpApi.Org
Crews began pouring concrete on Oklahoma City's new NBA arena, Continental Coliseum, this week, marking a major construction milestone, according to city officials.
"Progress continues on our new arena, which is one of the most aspirational projects in our city's history," Mayor David Holt said. "This first concrete placement is another milestone in the journey, and we know this means that soon we'll see our new arena rising out of the ground."
Flintco|Mortenson is the construction team coordinating the project with Dolese Bros. supplying the concrete.
"Construction crews will begin placing the pier caps, along with two large mat foundations," Project Director Josh Patterson with Flintco|Mortenson said. "Pier caps act like the ‘feet' of the building's deep foundation system, connecting groups of underground piers that serve as the ‘legs' supporting the future arena."
The work is important as it helps safely transfer the weight of the building. This includes the roof, seating areas and event equipment into stable soils to ensure the arena.
City officials said crews are also working on below-grade waterproofing and installation of utility and underground electrical systems that will provide temporary power.
"The earthwork, utility coordination, and foundation activities are setting the stage for the transition from site preparation into vertical construction later in the project schedule," Flintco|Mortenson Project Executive Ellen Becker said.
Project partners have assembled a legacy capsule containing artifacts that honor Oklahoma City's past and tell the story behind the Continental Coliseum.
The legacy capsule includes:
- A wooden coin from the 1972 grand opening of the Myriad Convention Center honoring the site where the coliseum will be
- A 1993 penny marking the approval of the original Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) initiative, marking the beginning of the city's transformation through a temporary one-cent sales tax
- A letter from Mayor David Holt
- A copy of "Hope Wins," the photograph taken by Jimmy Do captured during the 2025 NBA championship parade symbolizing the resilience, unity and optimism that defines Oklahoma
- Four oil samples honoring the state's rich energy heritage, innovation and entrepreneurial spirit
- A Continental Coliseum groundbreaking event credential
- A photograph from the groundbreaking ceremony
- A groundbreaking ceremony commemorative medallion
- A safety vest from the Flintco Mortenson construction team
- A 2023 penny marking voter approval for the arena
- A timeline graphic chronicling the city's continued investment of MAPS projects
The arena is scheduled to be completed in 2028.
The Thunder's 25-year commitment to remain in the city will begin once the team moves to the new facility.
The Coliseum will catalyze Oklahoma City's ongoing economic and cultural renaissance, city officials said.
