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Call us 877-451-9251Water Damage Restoration in Norman, OK
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Moore Norman Technology Center Norman Campus in Norman to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Norman, OK is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Norman. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like MooreLindsay Historical House Museum in Norman, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Norman.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Norman, OK
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Brookdale Norman in Norman for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Norman, OK, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Norman?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Reaves Park in Norman. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Norman, OK, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Prairie House in Norman, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Norman restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Norman, OK, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Norman, OK
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Norman, OK, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Benvenuti's Ristorante in Norman. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Norman rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Norman, OK
COVERAGE: Oklahoma wildfires spread prompting evacuations
Kari King / KFORhttps://kfor.com/news/local/evacuations-underway-in-east-of-cushing-says-nws-norman/
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The National Weather Service (NWS) Norman has announced an evacuation order for the area east of Cushing.According NWS, a large wildfire is threatening areas from the intersection of Highways 33 and 99 east of Cushing.Residents in this area are being asked to le...
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – The National Weather Service (NWS) Norman has announced an evacuation order for the area east of Cushing.
According NWS, a large wildfire is threatening areas from the intersection of Highways 33 and 99 east of Cushing.
Residents in this area are being asked to leave immediately and travel toward either the east or west.
Featured Video Below: Raw Wildfire Video near Chickasha, courtesy Randy Richardson
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7 days ago
NWS Norman Update
Mario Gonzalez
According to NWS Norman, as of 6:25 p.m., wildfires continue to burn SW of Wellston, E of Cushing, SE of Yale, E of Seiling, E of Warren and S of Anadarko.
If you live close to any of these areas, it is advised to pay close attention on instructions by local officials.
7 days ago
Power outages
Terre Gables
Number of OG&E customers impacted by power outage across 23 counties in Oklahoma decreases to 994.
PSO customers impacted by power outages in Oklahoma at 2,022.
7 days ago
Power outages
Terre Gables
Number of OG&E customers impacted by power outage across 23 counties in Oklahoma increases to 3,360.
PSO customers impacted by power outages in Oklahoma at 1,431.
7 days ago
Power outages
Terre Gables
Number of OG&E customers impacted by power outage across 23 counties in Oklahoma decreases to 703.
7 days ago
Power outages
Terre Gables
PSO customers impacted by power outages in Oklahoma at 1,309.
Number of OG&E customers impacted by power outage across 23 counties in Oklahoma decreases to 3,364.
7 days ago
NWS Norman
Terre Gables
A Fire Warning has been issued for a dangerous wildfire located 4 miles south of Wellston (Lincoln Co.), near Hwy 102. This fire is moving rapidly north. Those near Sunset Dr., Summer Tree Lane, & up to CR 970 should evacuate. Avoid Hwy 102! KFOR has a team headed to the scene.
7 days ago
Temporary evacuation shelter
Mario Gonzalez
Edmond emergency management says St. Lukes Methodist Church in Edmond, located at 900 N. Sooner Road, is temporarily open for residents who have evacuated their homes due to grass fires in the area.
7 days ago
Grass fire near Edmond
Xavier Richardson
The Edmond Fire Department has issued a public safety advisory for those near I-35 and Covell due to and active grass fire.
EFD says heavy smoke and potential road closures may result on traffic delays and hazardous driving conditions.
Drivers are advised to plan an alternate route and allow for extra travel time.
Photo courtesy Edmond Fire Department.
7 days ago
Power outages
Terre Gables
Number of OG&E customers impacted by power outage across 23 counties in Oklahoma increases to 4,077 .
7 days ago
Traffic camera shows fire near Cashion
Mario Gonzalez
ODOT camera on I-35 and 2nd pointing North shows fire near Cashion.
7 days ago
Evacuation ordered for Twin Lakes
Xavier Richardson
The National Weather Service has issued an evacuation order for residents of Twin Lakes in Logan County.
A dangerous wildfire was located three miles north of Cashion, moving rapidly north at 2 to 3 mph. Residents are advised to evacuate to the gas station at Highways 33 and 74.
7 days ago
UPDATE @ 3:05 p.m
Kari King
NWS has updated the evacuation order, stating a large wildfire is threatening areas between Schlegel Road and Highway 99, east of Cushing. People should now evacuate to the north.
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How long will it take to know election results in Oklahoma?
#6 Tennessee defensively dominates #15 Oklahoma in 25-15 win in Norman
Samantha Casanohttps://www.local3news.com/local-sports/6-tennessee-defensively-dominates-15-oklahoma-in-25-15-win-in-norman/article_12192398-78f5-11ef-b685-d79ab945190b.html
No. 6 Tennessee football showcased its defensive prowess in a commanding 25-15 SEC-opening victory over No. 15 Oklahoma on Saturday night at Memorial Stadium.The win marked the Vols' 10th over a ranked opponent under head coach Josh Heupel, who made the return to his alma mater a memorable one.Tennessee (4-0, 1-0 SEC) established defensive dominance from the outset, limiting the Sooners to just 222 total yards. The impressive performance continues a trend, as the Vols have now held their last five opponents under 250 yards of t...
No. 6 Tennessee football showcased its defensive prowess in a commanding 25-15 SEC-opening victory over No. 15 Oklahoma on Saturday night at Memorial Stadium.
The win marked the Vols' 10th over a ranked opponent under head coach Josh Heupel, who made the return to his alma mater a memorable one.
Tennessee (4-0, 1-0 SEC) established defensive dominance from the outset, limiting the Sooners to just 222 total yards. The impressive performance continues a trend, as the Vols have now held their last five opponents under 250 yards of total offense, dating to their Citrus Bowl triumph over Iowa on Jan. 1, 2024.
The Vols had an impressive defensive streak end on Saturday as they went 19 quarters without allowing an offensive touchdown until Oklahoma scored with 8:25 left in the fourth quarter. This streak went down as the second-longest in program history and the longest since Tennessee shut out 15 straight opponents from Nov. 5, 1938, to Dec. 9, 1939.
Oklahoma (3-1, 0-1 SEC) struggled early, committing multiple turnovers that the Vols capitalized on. Cornerback Jermod McCoy recorded his first interception as a Vol, halting Oklahoma's third drive and leading to Tennessee's opening points with a 27-yard field goal from kicker Max Gilbert.
After the Sooners tied the game with a field goal, Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava found wide receiver Dont'e Thornton Jr. for a spectacular 66-yard touchdown pass as the first quarter closed.
With Oklahoma deep in Tennessee territory after a turnover, the Vols' defense struck again. Defensive lineman Joshua Josephs forced a fumble and recovered it on the UT six-yard line to flip the game's momentum back in Tennessee's favor.
On OU's next drive, a false start by the Sooners then pushed them back to their 2-yard line, where defensive lineman Jayson Jenkins burst through the line to tackle Oklahoma's running back in the end zone for a safety, extending Tennessee's lead to 12-3 with 9:12 remaining in the second quarter.
The Vols continued to capitalize on mistakes, forcing their third takeaway of the first half when defensive back Jakobe Thomas recovered a fumble on a backward pass that hit the turf. Tennessee made Oklahoma pay, as running back Dylan Sampson plunged in for a one-yard touchdown on UT's ensuing drive, marking his 10th of the season and pushing the lead to 19-3.
Gilbert added two more field goals in the second half from 41 and 32 yards, keeping Oklahoma at bay.
The Sooners made a quarterback change at halftime, bringing in freshman Michael Hawkins Jr., who led Oklahoma on a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown drives.
Linebacker Arion Carter was a standout for Tennessee's defense, recording six tackles, including one for a loss, and breaking up a pass. Andre Turrentine, Christian Harrison, and Keenan Pili each contributed five tackles, with Pili particularly disruptive, adding a tackle for loss and two quarterback hurries. As a unit, the Vols' defense registered three sacks and 11 tackles for loss.
On the offensive front, Iamaleava had a solid performance, completing 13 of 21 passes for 194 yards and a touchdown in his first SEC start. Wide receiver Bru McCoy was the top target, catching four passes for 92 yards. Sampson finished with 92 yards on 24 carries, while fellow running back DeSean Bishop contributed 65 yards on 16 carries.
Iamaleava presented the game ball to his head coach as the clock expired.
Up next, after an open week, Tennessee travels to Fayetteville to face Arkansas on Oct. 5. A game time will be announced next week.
Norman, OK: Where to Eat, Sleep & Tailgate
StyleBlueprint: For a Life of Style + Substancehttps://styleblueprint.com/everyday/university-of-oklahoma-football-sec/
Welcome to the University of Oklahoma (OU), home of the Sooners! If you’re heading to town to catch some Oklahoma football, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:PinThis article contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of ...
Welcome to the University of Oklahoma (OU), home of the Sooners! If you’re heading to town to catch some Oklahoma football, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:
This article contains product affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links.
WHERE TO STAY IN NORMAN
While Norman has fewer options than larger college towns, you can still find a comfortable place to stay near campus.
We are grateful to all our sponsors:
Casa Bella Bed and Breakfast
642 E Brooks St, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 329-2289
Casa Bella Bed and Breakfast is an easy 15-minute walk from the University of Oklahoma campus. This darling bed and breakfast is styled after a Mexican casita, with vibrant colors and lush gardens. You’ll never know you’re in the Midwest.
The Montford Inn
322 W Tonhawa St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 321-2200
The Montford Inn is a charming bed and breakfast near campus. You can enjoy the relaxing quiet of comfortable rooms and a large front porch with swings, but it’s still walkable to the buzzing downtown.
The Manor Bed & Breakfast
917 W Boyd St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 310-2254
Just two blocks from the University of Oklahoma campus, The Manor Bed and Breakfast is an intimate spot with a luxurious guest suite. You’ll even wake up to a home-cooked breakfast in the morning.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Norman Hotel & Conference Center
2501 Conference Dr, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-8040
While it’s a little further from campus, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Normal Hotel & Conference Center is a great choice for larger groups or anyone looking for a more corporate stay.
NOUN Hotel
542 S University Blvd, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 701-5858
The NOUN Hotel is a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property that brings boutique hotel vibes to downtown Norman. The Oklahoma landscape inspires its decor, and you can’t beat the location, which is just steps from campus.
We are grateful to all our sponsors:
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WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN NORMAN
Whether you go to Main Street or Campus Corner, you’ll find a wide range of cuisine perfect for reliving your college days. They’ve got it all: Mexican, Greek, burgers … and it tastes even better after a long day of tailgating.
Greek House
768 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-6300
Ask any OU fan the best spot to grab a bite to eat in Norman, and there’s a near 100% chance they’ll answer Greek House. This local restaurant is the best place to grab falafel, gyros, and other Mediterranean dishes.
Pepe Delgados
786 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 321-6232
Pepe Delgados is a go-to Mexican favorite for students and alums alike. You can’t beat a big plate of tacos after a winning game.
The Garage Burgers & Beer
307 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 701-7035
Head to The Garage Burgers & Beer for the burgers and beer, and stay for the arcade games. This vibrant spot has crinkle-cut fries, specialty drinks, and upbeat energy.
Van’s Pig Stands
320 N Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 703-3000
If you’re craving barbecue, head to Van’s Pig Stands. You’ll find brisket, pulled pork, and some Midwestern flavor with St. Louis ribs.
The Mont
1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 329-3330
Head to The Mont for everything from burgers to Mexican. This perennial favorite restaurant has a great outdoor space perfect for posting up after an early autumn game.
The Diner
213 E Main St Ste. B, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 329-6642
Chili and hearty comfort food is why fans flock to The Diner. Well, and because Guy Fieri put it on the map with Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives!
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BARS IN NORMAN
Norman has a classic bar scene, with great dive spots and sports bars. This may not be where you’ll find a trendy wine bar, but you’ll always be able to grab a cold beer.
O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille
769 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 217-8454
Grab a drink at O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille, a classic sports bar right on Campus Corner. It opens at 11 a.m. on Saturdays (so you can grab a pre-game drink), and then it stays open until 2 a.m. for all of your late-night celebrating.
Louie’s Grill & Bar
301 W Boyd St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 366-6291
Every college town needs a good sports bar, and Norman has Louie’s Grill & Bar. This local chain has classic American dishes, good beer, and sports continuously running on the TVs.
Bison Witches Bar & Deli
211 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-7555
If you get hungry while you’re drinking, Bison Witches Bar & Deli has you covered. Grab a beer and a bread bowl soup or a creative sandwich.
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WHERE TO TAILGATE IN NORMAN
OU makes its campus a hotspot for tailgating activities on game day. Fans can tailgate across the campus, including on Boyd Lawn and near Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Spots are free for the taking, and they’re first come, first served, so plan on getting there early to nab the prime tailgating location!
Boomer Sooner!
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Norman community reacts to approval of $1 billion entertainment district
Abby Younghttps://www.oudaily.com/news/norman-city-council-entertainment-district-approval-university-north-park-rock-creek-community/article_5c5f59a0-7589-11ef-b174-f7f8c1839f7a.html
Editor's note: This story was updated at 8:41 a.m. on Sept. 18 to include emailed statements from President and CEO of the Norman Chamber of Commerce Scott Martin, OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. and OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. Norman City Council approved the project plan for the $1 billion University North Park e...
Editor's note: This story was updated at 8:41 a.m. on Sept. 18 to include emailed statements from President and CEO of the Norman Chamber of Commerce Scott Martin, OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. and OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione.
Norman City Council approved the project plan for the $1 billion University North Park entertainment district on Tuesday after months of pushback from residents.
At the second public hearing regarding the project plan, Norman residents flooded city hall to voice their concerns or support for the plan.
The Rock Creek Entertainment District project plan creates two tax increment finance districts to fund the development. The first TIF uses sales tax, the second is an ad valorem increment district.
“We’re here for a project we believe will change our community for forever,” Sean Rieger, attorney for the applicant, said in his opening presentation. “For the better.”
Community members react
Over 70 community members signed up to speak in the public hearing.
Ward 3 resident Rob Norman was on the University North Park TIF committee.
“I voted against the financing because it is the worst possible public financing tool we could use, and it's for one reason, and that's to avoid a vote of the people,” Norman said. “Depending on what you do tonight, that's going to happen anyway.”
While addressing council, Norman called for an open debate and public vote on the project plan.
In an interview with OU Daily during the hearing, Norman said he was concerned about economic harm because spending activity would be concentrated in the district. A TIF district would decrease the city of Norman’s general fund revenue, he said.
Many entertainment districts are funded without TIFs, Norman said. Instead, they use private funding, bonds or other tax revenue.
“The reason that that is not the plan here, which is what everyone else does, is that that brings it to a vote of the people,” Norman said. “And I don't think the strongest advocates for this plan want this to go to a vote of the people.”
Norman said he wants there to be a public debate so citizens can speak for longer than the allotted time in city council meetings, which is three minutes.
“We have to make our case somewhere else,” Norman said. “We can and we will.”
Norman said citizens opposed to the district plan to create a referendum petition for a public vote if the project is approved.
“If they pass it, we’re going to do everything we can to get this voted on by the people,” Norman said.
Cynthia Rogers, an OU economics professor, said in an interview with OU Daily that such a contentious and large spending program should be voted on by the public.
“You get to vote on everything else that uses tax dollars: sales tax, new sales tax,” Rogers said. “This uses the thing that we vote on, diverting it to something that we didn’t vote on.”
Rogers also said the property taxes the TIF collects are intended to fund public schools.
“The most important thing for families to come to Norman, they look at the schools,” she said. “That's the first thing they look at. I doubt they’re like, ‘Do you have an arena?’”
Most current city council members will not be on the council when school and infrastructure funding issues arise as a result of the TIF, she said.
Rogers said she does not want the district to be completely funded by TIFs, but the city should finance the public infrastructure portions of the project.
Ward 6 resident Marguerite Larson said city surveys reflect that the Norman community does not want the project approved.
Larson also said the TIF will impact school and city funding, and that OU should finance the arena. She also said she was disappointed with the results of a previous TIF.
Larson said she doesn’t agree with the project developers’ assumption that a large amount of funding would be coming in from the TIFs.
“We were promised the moon and the stars and sunshine and dancing girls, and we got Dollar Tree,” she said. “We got Target. We got Office Max.”
In an interview with OU Daily, Larson said she was concerned about housing costs in the district and potential tornado damage.
“Why not invest in something that’s already here?” Larson said. “Why not invest in the community as a whole, as something that’s going to benefit everyone?”
Ward 6 resident Andrew Rasner said that a TIF is the worst way to fund the project plan and no other SEC schools financed their arenas through TIFs.
“This plan severely impacts both our short-term fiscal stability and our long-term ability to invest elsewhere,” he said.
In an interview with OU Daily, Rasner said he appreciates the walkability and higher density housing the project creates but he doesn’t agree with how the project will be supported.
“A lot of those things look really neat, but they are just tied intimately to the way of funding this,” Rasner said.
The project’s supporters
Ward 3 resident James Howard spoke in favor of the project. In an interview with OU Daily during the hearing, Howard said he has seen towns fail to progress “into the future.”
“They have fallen further and further behind in terms of maintaining their population and services to their citizens,” Howard said. “So it's either forward or backwards.”
Howard said the district would be a “marquee” visible to Norman tourists or drivers on the interstate.
“It basically lets them know that we're a destination to be taken seriously and enjoyed seriously, which is great for our businesses,” Howard said.
Ward 7 resident Gregg Garn, interim dean of professional and continuing studies, said he is in favor of the project.
“I think this is a powerful one for the university and for the city to come together to move forward in a powerful way,” Garn said. “And I don’t see adverse effects for the public schools.”
Howard said he would be happy if the project was approved.
“It would be a signal to others around us and to the state that we’re serious about being a good city – the place to be,” Howard said.
In an email to OU Daily, President and CEO of the Norman Chamber of Commerce Scott Martin wrote he wanted to thank Mayor Larry Heikkila and city council for their visionary support" of the entertainment district.
"This has been a lengthy process, but worthy of the magnitude of the impact it will have on our community. It is rare that this amount of private sector investment would be spent on one project in a community of our size," Martin wrote. "The return on this investment through real dollars flowing through our community will be staggering."
After the meeting, OU President Joseph Harroz Jr. wrote in an email to OU Daily that the vote was a historic moment in Norman's history, adding the "entire OU family" is grateful council approved the project.
Harroz wrote he was thankful for the citizens who worked to make the project happen, and called the vote a "milestone."
"A large coalition came together to support this initiative that will create thousands of new jobs, more housing and exciting new entertainment options for our residents that will help make Norman a destination city," Harroz wrote.
OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione wrote in the same email the vote was a "transformative" opportunity for the city and Cleveland County. Castiglione wrote OU had made it known it wants to be a partner in growth for the city, adding Norman can "reap" the benefits of fans from Southeastern Conference teams.
"Tonight, we saw strong leadership when our city needed it most," Castiglione wrote. "We’re endlessly thankful for the opportunity to have an environment where we can put Sooner Magic on full display, showing our state and region all Oklahoma has to offer. The district and arena will do wonders for our ability to compete and win."
This story was edited by Anusha Fathepure and Ismael Lele. Mary Ann Livingood copy edited this story.
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Agency makes changes to proposed Oklahoma toll road following opposition from Norman residents
Barbara Hoberockhttps://oklahomavoice.com/2024/09/18/agency-makes-changes-to-proposed-oklahoma-toll-road-following-opposition-from-norman-residents/
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority modified plans for a Norman turnpike after public opposition.The OTA removed plans for frontage roads and three interchanges on the turnpike after the Norman City Council on Aug. 27 refused to support a resolution calling for the interchanges and frontage road.They were part of an East-West Connector turnpike corridor in Norman, Moore, Oklahoma City and Cleveland County.Oklahoma is in the midst of a $5 billion, 15-year turnpike expansion and improvement project, calle...
OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority modified plans for a Norman turnpike after public opposition.
The OTA removed plans for frontage roads and three interchanges on the turnpike after the Norman City Council on Aug. 27 refused to support a resolution calling for the interchanges and frontage road.
They were part of an East-West Connector turnpike corridor in Norman, Moore, Oklahoma City and Cleveland County.
Oklahoma is in the midst of a $5 billion, 15-year turnpike expansion and improvement project, called Advancing and Connecting Communities and Economies Safely Statewide, or ACCESS. Several projects are planned across the state.
Norman City Councilor Stephen Tyler Holman said OTA asked the city to pass the resolution supporting the Norman turnpike plan. Norman leaders were concerned that the city would be financially responsible for maintenance and funding of the frontage roads and interchanges, Holman said.
He said there was “overwhelming opposition” from Norman residents about the turnpike expansion plans and the requested resolution.
Holman said there was a concern the OTA would use the resolution to try to convince lawmakers the city supported the turnpike.
Residents are concerned about the taking of private property to build the roadway, Holman said.
Families will be displaced and may not be able to find housing in the area or at the same value, Holman said.
Residents expressed concern about the impact on Lake Thunderbird, a source of water for the area, and on the environment.
“We don’t want the turnpike in Norman, period,” Holman said.
Holman said he hopes that less access to the turnpike will make the project unviable.
Lisa Shearer-Salim, an OTA spokesperson, said the project will still be viable even with the changes.
The OTA was offering to pay for the bulk of costs of building the frontage road and interchanges, but the city would have had to maintain it, she said.
The estimated savings in construction costs, right-of-way acquisition and utilities is between $150 million and $200 million, Shearer-Salim said.
Initially, the 28-mile new alignment will connect the Interstate 44/Tri-City area of Newcastle, Blanchard and Tuttle at Oklahoma 37 and cross the South Canadian River east to Interstate 35. Ultimately, the corridor will continue northeast to Interstate 40 to connect to the Kickapoo Turnpike.
The East-West Connector is a segment of the Oklahoma City Outer Loop.
It will take some additional time to rework the design plans to remove the frontage roads and additional interchanges at 36th Street, Broadway and 48th Avenue, said T.J. Dill, OTA deputy director and chief engineer.
Salim said the changes are not expected to significantly alter the route.
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