OKC’s Legends Tower: The Proposed Tallest US Skyscraper
Oklahoma City could soon be home to the tallest skyscraper in the United States if an ambitious new development plan in Bricktown secures city approval. Developer Matteson Capital has proposed increasing the height of the planned Legends Tower to a staggering 1,907 feet, a symbolic nod to the year Oklahoma joined the union. This massive project aims to completely transform our local skyline and establish our city as a major hub for business, housing, and tourism.
The Vision for Boardwalk at Bricktown
The proposed Legends Tower is the centerpiece of the Boardwalk at Bricktown, a massive mixed-use development designed to bring new energy to downtown Oklahoma City. Located near the upcoming arena and the existing entertainment district, this development plans to feature three smaller 345-foot towers alongside the massive central skyscraper. The overall project will host a mix of luxury hotels, 1,776 residential condominiums and apartments, retail shops, and vibrant public plazas. By creating a dense, walkable urban center, developers hope to attract national retailers and premium dining options that currently do not exist in the metro area, turning OKC into a true regional destination.
Why 1,907 Feet Matters
Originally, the main tower was slated to stand at 1,750 feet. However, developers recently requested a variance to push the height to 1,907 feet to pay tribute to Oklahoma’s statehood year of 1907. At this height, the Legends Tower would surpass New York City’s One World Trade Center by over 130 feet, claiming the crown as the tallest building in the nation. For OKC locals, this represents a massive shift from our low-rise roots to a globally recognized metropolitan skyline. It signals to major corporations and outside investors that Oklahoma City is ready to compete on a global scale.
| Building Name | City | Height (Feet) | US Rank Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legends Tower (Proposed) | Oklahoma City | 1,907 | 1st (If Approved) |
| One World Trade Center | New York City | 1,776 | Current 1st |
| Willis Tower | Chicago | 1,451 | Current 2nd |
| Devon Energy Center | Oklahoma City | 844 | Current OKC Tallest |
What This Means for Oklahoma City
Building a supertall skyscraper in Oklahoma City brings both immense opportunities and significant challenges. On the positive side, the project would inject billions of dollars into the local economy, create thousands of construction and service jobs, and put OKC on the international map. However, locals must also consider the practical side of hosting the nation’s tallest building. Critics and skeptical residents point out our city’s history of windstorms, tornadoes, and soil conditions as major engineering hurdles. Additionally, parking, traffic congestion, and the sheer scale of the project compared to neighboring low-rise Bricktown structures remain primary concerns for local planning commissioners. The contrast between this ultra-modern tower and the historic red-brick aesthetic of Bricktown will require careful architectural integration.
What Needs to Happen Next
Before construction can begin, the developers must secure zoning variances from the Oklahoma City Planning Commission and City Council to allow for the unprecedented height. The current zoning laws for Bricktown do not permit structures of this scale, meaning the project faces a rigorous public review process. Additionally, securing the massive financial backing required for a project of this scale remains a critical hurdle. Locals should watch upcoming city council meetings and public forums, as community feedback will play a significant role in determining whether this project gets the green light or remains a spectacular blueprint.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Legends Tower officially approved yet?
No, the developer is currently seeking zoning variances and height approvals from the Oklahoma City Council and Planning Commission to allow for the 1,907-foot height. - How tall is the current tallest building in Oklahoma City?
The Devon Energy Center is currently the tallest building in Oklahoma City, standing at 844 feet. - Where exactly will this development be located?
The Boardwalk at Bricktown, including the Legends Tower, is planned for the parking lot area just west of the Bricktown Canal and south of Reno Avenue. - How will a building of this height withstand Oklahoma’s severe weather?
The architectural firm AO and structural engineers plan to use advanced wind-engineering technologies, high-strength concrete, and aerodynamic designs specifically tailored to handle local wind forces and storm activity.
As Oklahoma City continues to grow and redefine itself, residents should actively participate in public planning discussions and voice their thoughts on how projects of this scale will shape our community’s future.
Tallest US Skyscraper Proposed for Oklahoma City
