City of Norman

PROJECT PURPOSE

The development of the Native Celebration Grounds, central Oklahoma?s only expanded and fully-equipped public tribal celebration grounds would create an opportunity for celebrating the rich heritage of tribal culture, while driving economic impact to the state and region. The Native Celebration Grounds have been designed to sit on land already provided by the City of Norman at Saxon Park. It was through community engagement and city leadership support the initiative was expanded to develop an untouched area on the northern part of the land to create a Pow Wow arbor with all the amenities a public park would have. In addition, a run of the land was specifically evaluated to create a Stickball Field, a very special Native game, with proper lighting to ensure year-around use. This Native Celebration Grounds project merges the great opportunities for cultural heritage and support of Native heritage across all tribes. With our 39 tribes located in Oklahoma, a place for gathering, honoring, and celebrating is needed. The project is centrally located near the intersection of I-35 and Highway 9 in Norman, Cleveland County. This makes it a prime place for large events traveling in, bringing economic viability through tourism from across the country.

EVIDENCE

The Native Celebration Grounds project has been in development since May 2021. There has been consistent support from many tribes and local economic development organizations. The interest and support to create a stronger tourism avenue for the region, which also highly delivers on honoring Native Heritage, have been hands-down supported by everyone.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

The stop to tourism and educational opportunities tourism bring impacted all communities. This was not just due to doors closing, but because residual income was limited to cover tickets, memberships, or fees for certain activities. A critical and important piece of the Native Celebration Grounds is the low-economic barrier this experience would create for all communities. Even the most vulnerable populations and communities would be able to take part in visiting the Native Celebrations Grounds to learn and explore what the heritage of various Native events include. This project creates an opportunity for tourism from all across the world, country, and even our backyards to come take part in celebrating Native culture.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

With the Native Celebration Grounds being a public park, the City of Norman will create a registration website for tribes to register usage of the grounds, including Pow Wow grounds, arbor, Stickball field, and facilities. Data will include number of guests expected, length of time used, and other numerical pieces which will allow us to track data to show the project success and use. In addition, educational elements throughout the park will have QR codes to inform all spectators of what each of the areas represent, providing the ability to track park traffic.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

Able to continue operation without additional funding from the State of Oklahoma