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The Choctaw Nation has awarded funds to Atoka’s Downtown Greenspace Project. Shown are, Brad Erwin, Choctaw Nation Small Business Development, Colby Sherrill, City of Atoka, Cindy Wallace, Atoka tourism department, Ericka Pogue, City of Atoka, Danny Delay, Atoka Assistant Mayor, Michael Southard, Choctaw Development Fund, Brian Cathey, Mayor of Atoka, Carol Ervin, Atoka economic development, Kreg Haney, Choctaw Nation Economic Development. Photo provided | The Choctaw Nation
ATOKA - In a significant step towards the revitalization of Atoka, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma presented the City of Atoka with $340,250 to support the first phase of the Downtown Atoka Greenspace Project, which aims to create a vibrant community hub across from Atoka City Hall.
The funds were awarded through the Choctaw Development Fund, which partners with cities, municipalities and small business owners to support economic development and sustainability throughout the Choctaw Nation.
“From their commerce department to their leadership, they’ve all been involved in helping Atoka grow, just like they are with other towns in the counties inside Choctaw Nation,” said Brian Cathey, mayor of Atoka. “It’s a very unique opportunity for communities like ours to have such a partnership, and it’s focused on improving the quality of life where tribal members live. Atoka wouldn’t be able to accomplish even a quarter of what we do without the assistance of Choctaw Nation.”
Atoka is positioning itself as a tourist destination in Oklahoma, gaining attention in 2023 with the opening of Reba’s Place, a restaurant and bar with live music in downtown Atoka. The Atoka Greenspace, located in proximity to Reba’s Place, plans to become a focal point for outdoor events and concerts, enhancing the city’s appeal.
Phase one of the Downtown Atoka Greenspace Project will cost $680,500 and includes purchasing and installing raised stages, storage areas, stage frames with awnings, lighting and audio-visual components. City officials hope to have the first phase of the project complete by fall.
The cost of the entire greenspace project, which includes construction management, engineering, landscape design, sidewalks and more, is estimated at $1.4 million. The City of Atoka has already invested $3.1 million in the area, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the community’s infrastructure and amenities.
“The Downtown Atoka Greenspace Project is a perfect fit for the Choctaw Development Fund,” said Angel Rowland, Choctaw Development Fund manager. “It’s creating a community resource, as well as an attraction that will draw more people to Atoka and will result in more revenue and more jobs for the area.”