With the 2024 election now in the past, Oklahoma City officials and planners are actively seeking feedback from residents in preparation for the upcoming 2025 ballot initiative. This initiative aims to provide the necessary funds to address the city's infrastructure requirements. Over the years, people across Oklahoma City have expressed their dissatisfaction with the condition of city streets, as highlighted in the most recent annual resident survey. The Public Works Department remains hopeful that a vote in late 2025 for a general bond will continue to address these issues, but they require input on the specific elements to include in the bond package.

"Oklahoma City's Path to Infrastructure Improvement through the 2025 Bond"

Importance of the 2025 Bond Initiative

General obligation bonds have been the primary means of funding major infrastructure projects in the city. These projects encompass the construction and improvement of streets, sidewalks, bridges, trails, parks, as well as police and fire stations. The determination of bond projects now depends on a combination of factors such as street and bridge ratings, planning studies, annual resident surveys, and the priorities set by the Oklahoma City Council.The last time a bond issue was approved was in 2017 with the Better Streets, Safer City program. This program involved a 10-year, $967 million investment in various aspects including streets, parks, and police and fire facilities. The largest component of the 2017 bond package was $491 million dedicated to streets and sidewalks, clearly indicating the top concern of residents across the city.Although the specific amount for the 2025 bond has not been determined yet, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt informed Bloomberg TV in October that it would "definitely be a package in excess of $1 billion." This significant investment shows the city's commitment to addressing infrastructure needs.

Benefits of Rebuilding Streets

Streets with the highest traffic and roughest surfaces are given the highest priority for repairs. Rebuilding these streets not only makes them safer for cyclists and pedestrians with improved intersections and additional safety amenities but also reduces wear and tear on vehicles. This, in turn, limits maintenance costs for drivers and allows them to focus better on their surroundings while driving.A previous 2007 bond program also played a crucial role in building additional infrastructure for the city. It included 350 lane miles of new or rebuilt streets, 48 arterial street widening projects, and more than 100 miles of sidewalks. These projects have had a lasting impact on the city's infrastructure.

City's Outreach Efforts

City planners have introduced a new website called Vision, which was previously used to gather feedback for annual city budget priorities. This website will now also serve as a prominent platform for gathering feedback on the 2025 bond package. By visiting okc.gov/GO, residents can easily drop a pin on the interactive map and highlight the locations that require improvement.In addition, city officials held multiple come-and-go workshops in various wards last month. People had the opportunity to directly communicate with city staff about their residential needs and priorities. However, a workshop scheduled at the Latino Community Development Agency in early November due to severe weather issues had to be canceled. Nevertheless, several more workshops and pop-up events are still planned for November and December:- Nov. 19 — 9 to 11 a.m. at the Healthy Living Center, 13660 S Western Ave.- Nov. 19 — 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Oklahoma City University Tom & Brenda McDaniel University Center, 2501 N Blackwelder Ave.- Nov. 22 ― 9 to 11 a.m. at the Martin Nature Park Visitor Center, 5000 W Memorial Road- Dec. 6 — 6 to 9 p.m. at the Paseo Arts District near Betsy King Shoes, 3022 PaseoCity officials also encourage interested residents to organize their own meetings with their neighborhoods, clubs, and groups. By emailing public.info@okc.gov, people can utilize the city's downloadable toolkit to collect, share, and submit more ideas regarding the bond issue.