A major milestone has been reached in Oklahoma City as construction officially begins on a new NBA arena that is set to redefine the city’s sports and entertainment landscape.
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The Oklahoma City Thunder and key stakeholders gathered to celebrate the groundbreaking of the $900 million Continental Coliseum, a state-of-the-art venue that will serve as the team’s future home.
The project represents one of the largest public-private investments in the city’s history, with approximately $850 million funded by local taxpayers and consumers through sales tax extensions and capital improvement programs. The Thunder’s ownership group will contribute the remaining $50 million.
The arena will be delivered by a joint venture between Flintco and Mortenson, combining local expertise with national experience in large-scale sports infrastructure.
Mortenson brings a strong portfolio of stadium construction projects, including high-profile venues across the U.S., while Flintco adds deep regional experience, having built several landmark structures in Oklahoma City.
“Continental Coliseum represents an extraordinary investment in Oklahoma City’s future,” said Logan Gerken, vice president and general manager for Mortenson Sports and Entertainment. “We are proud to be building Oklahoma City’s new landmark arena that will be a world-class gathering space and the most energetic game day in the NBA.”
Flintco leadership also emphasized the local significance of the project.
“Breaking ground on this arena is a proud moment for Oklahoma City,” Dave Kollmann, Flintco’s central region president, said. “As a company founded in Oklahoma, it’s especially meaningful to help build a world-class home for the Thunder that reflects the energy, pride, and passion of this community.”
The arena is being designed by Manica Architecture, with TVS serving as the architect of record, bringing together global design expertise for a modern, fan-focused venue.
The Continental Coliseum will rise on the former site of the Myriad Convention Center, which was recently demolished to make way for the development.
Key design highlights include:
Construction is targeting completion by late summer 2028, with a contractual requirement to open no later than June 2029.
Beyond serving as a home for the Thunder, the arena is expected to play a major role in Oklahoma City’s long-term economic development.
Large-scale venues like the Continental Coliseum often act as catalysts for:
The project also reflects a broader trend of cities investing in modern sports infrastructure to retain professional teams and stimulate downtown revitalization.
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The involvement of experienced builders like Mortenson underscores the growing complexity of modern arena construction, where projects must balance architectural innovation, fan experience, and sustainability.
At the same time, the strong public funding component highlights ongoing debates around taxpayer investment in sports venues, particularly as cities weigh economic benefits against upfront costs.
Still, for Oklahoma City, the new arena signals confidence in continued growth and its status as a major-league market.
With construction now underway, the Continental Coliseum is poised to become a defining landmark for Oklahoma City. As work progresses, attention will shift to design execution, community integration, and ensuring the venue delivers on its promise as a world-class destination.
Originally reported by Zachary Phillips, Editor in Construction Dive.
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