Construction on the $900 million Continental Coliseum continues to advance significantly as the Oklahoma City Thunder‘s new home takes shape on the former Myriad Convention Center site. As a result, the latest photos show significant progress in the structure towards the planned opening in 2028. The arena is being built on the downtown block between Reno Avenue, Ron Norick Boulevard, Sheridan Avenue and E.K. Gaylord Boulevard. Meanwhile, the facility will replace Paycom Center, which will be 26 years old upon the Continental Coliseum’s completion.
The $900 million project is making good progress, as seen in recent construction photos, with structural framing and foundation work progressing quickly. In particular, the demolition of the old Myriad Convention Center, which was in use from 1972 to 2026, made way for the new arena development.
The Continental Coliseum is thus a significant downtown Oklahoma City transformation and investment in professional sports facilities. Another major stadium project that is advancing despite all odds is the Nationwide Arena that is progressing despite funding hurdles. The Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority has scheduled a 2031 completion date, despite the fact that a significant portion of the estimated $400 million needed has yet to be secured.
Continental Coliseum Structural Progress Accelerates Through 2026
The latest photos show significant progress in the concrete work and installation of steel structure on the Continental Coliseum. In addition, the rate of construction activity shows that the project is progressing as planned for completion in 2028. In particular, visible progress is defined as vertical structure and significant building envelope elements being installed. The $900 million Continental Coliseum will house the Thunder’s professional basketball operations with state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, the modern arena will enhance downtown Oklahoma City’s entertainment and sports infrastructure positioning the city for events and community engagement.
Outlook on Project Replacing Aging Arena Infrastructure
Paycom Center will be 26 years old when the Coliseum opens in 2028, which is a good time for the NBA franchise to replace the facility. In particular, the Continental Coliseum will provide modern building systems, improved fan experience, and modern amenities. Furthermore, the new facility puts Oklahoma City in a competitive position in the NBA arena landscape. The images of the construction process reveal several stages of the project, with various elements being worked on concurrently, suggesting a well-coordinated and efficient construction process for the Continental Coliseum development.
Project Overview
- Project Name: Continental Coliseum
- Project Value: $900 Million
- Location: Downtown Oklahoma City (former Myriad Convention Center site)
- Client: Oklahoma City Thunder (NBA)
- Status: Active construction, targeted 2028 opening
Scope
- Professional NBA arena facility
- Former Myriad Convention Center site redevelopment
- Modern sports and entertainment venue
- Oklahoma City downtown revitalization component
- State-of-the-art basketball operations facility
Project Highlights
- 2028 opening replaces 26-year-old Paycom Center
- Downtown Oklahoma City premier location
- Professional sports infrastructure modernization
- Major regional entertainment venue
- Community gathering and event space
Key Developments
- Former Myriad Convention Center demolition completed 2026
- Site cleared for Continental Coliseum construction
- Structural framing and foundation work visible in latest photos
- Construction progressing toward 2028 timeline
- Downtown revitalization through sports infrastructure investment
Key Challenges
- Complex urban construction coordination downtown
- Managing site preparation and demolition debris
- Weather impacts on construction timeline
- Coordinating modern arena systems and amenities
- Meeting 2028 completion target
- Urban traffic and logistics management during construction
Outlook
- Substantial completion targeted 2027
- 2028 opening season for Oklahoma City Thunder
- Enhanced venue experience for fans and players
- Downtown Oklahoma City economic revitalization
- Professional sports infrastructure modernization
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