Despite Economy, Bricktown is Booming

By Jacqueline Sit, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- While the economy is in recession, many businesses are struggling, but that's not the case in downtown Oklahoma City. Bricktown is actually seeing a boom and more businesses are moving to the entertainment district.

A Hampton Inn in the works and a new sports bar is making its way right in the heart of Bricktown, and that's just in the last few weeks.

"There are four guys into this and we try to think of the ultimate place we'd like to go to get a great meal and catch a game," Brix General Manager Jackson Price said.

Painted in red, the newest addition Brix, will hopefully be the ultimate sports bar these guys have always wanted. Stocked with over 30 TVs, a lounge and patio, even in these trying times, business owners are confident about making this move.

"We're a little worried, but not worried enough. We feel we can come in and help revitalize Bricktown and still be a part of that growing effort," Price said.

Bricktown is growing, from the Micheal Murphy's Dueling Pianos, America's Pub, and setting up shop by the canal is the popular Coyote Ugly Saloon.

"Bricktown is kind of a magnet for people to go before any event downtown," said Jim Cowan, the Executive Director of the Bricktown Association.

Whether it's the NBA team that draws the fans or a getaway in a day for families, everyone is feeling the boom.

"I think there could be people who choose to stay closer to home depending upon what's going on with them economically. So if they're in the region, Oklahoma City would be a lot less expensive than going to Disney World, so we may actually benefit out of this," Cowan said.

Brix is tentatively expected to open within the next few weeks, just in time for March Madness. Spring and summer are the busiest times of the year in Bricktown and many of these businesses want to take advantage of that foot traffic.