Residents Not Surprised Paseo Arts District Ranked One of the Best

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The Paseo Arts District in Oklahoma City has gained national recognition.

The area has been ranked as one of the top ten Great Neighborhoods in America by the American Planning Association. The group singled out the neighborhood for its historic architecture, affordable housing and strong citizen engagement and civic participation, like the Paseo Arts festival.

This is the first time a neighborhood in Oklahoma has made the list.  Paseo Arts Association President Karen Orr said the area has earned its bragging rights.

"There's no other place in the city, and I'm sure there's no other place in the state, that's built like this," Orr said.

Business owners in the area said they've witnessed the rebirth of the Paseo Arts District and its colorful, early 20th century bungalows and complementing galleries.

"Everything's gotten a facelift around here," said Paseo Grill owner Joe Jungmann. "You can hear hammering in the background right now. Construction is happening in this area."

See the complete list of the American Planning Association's Great Neighborhoods in America.