Jim Norick Arena Roof Implosion Expected Tuesday Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is set to bid farewell to the historic Jim Norick Arena with the implosion of its roof scheduled for 7:30 a.m. on Tuesday, weather permitting. Built in 1965, the arena hosted decades of rodeo events, concerts, sports championships, and more, and was notable for its distinctive roof supported by concrete columns and cables. While the roof will be imploded, the walls will remain standing for a later demolition, and the city aims to clear the area before the Oklahoma State Fair begins on September 11. The new OG&E Coliseum, located adjacent to the old arena and nearing 70% completion, will replace the Jim Norick Arena and is expected to open in mid-2025. City leaders, including current Mayor David Holt and former Mayor Ron Norick, son of Jim Norick after whom the arena is named, will participate in the event. An exclusion zone will be enforced for safety, and the implosion marks the end of an era celebrated by many who recall memorable events held at the venue.