Norman's Once Unstable Financial Center Building Could Reopen Soon

Structural worries forced the closing of downtown Norman's tallest building months ago, but the Financial Center Building could be reopening soon.

Friday, November 26th 2010, 7:38 pm

By: News 9


Gan Matthews, News 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- Structural worries forced the closing of downtown Norman's tallest building months ago, but the Financial Center Building could be reopening soon.

The building, built in 1972, was home to the restaurant the Vista and has been vacant since last winter. Recently, though, a construction crew has stabilized the six-story building and put in new windows.

"A year ago there were concerns of high winds could cause the building to fail, and we would evacuate the area immediately surrounding the building," said Norman Fire Chief James Fullingim.

Michael Palermo, who owns Michelangelo's Coffee and Wine Bar Cafe two doors down.

"They assured me there wasn't really a problem with the building falling over, but the fire department came in and had to shut me down three different times," Palermo said.

Since the building has been closed, the offices and restaurant vacated, and the site has been off-limits to visitors, but recently there have been signs of life around the Financial Center Building

Palermo said he heard the building will reopen in a few months with new clientele.

"It's gonna be full again, which helps the downtown area," Palermo said.

Palermo said he heard the reopening date is scheduled for February 1.

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