Funds to assist in creation of
inclusive public space across from city hall
Atoka, Oklahoma -- 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.”
About The Choctaw Development Fund
The Choctaw Development Fund supports economic viability and sustainability by partnering with Choctaw small business owners, cities and municipalities to create long-term growth and job creation within the territories of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
The Choctaw Development Fund partners with the Choctaw Nation Small Business Development (CSBD). The CSBD is a single source contact for member advisory in the business start-up and existing business enhancement processes that increase the opportunity for success through partnerships with state, federal, and tribal resources. Our focus is delivering technical assistance, training programs, and access to capital for individuals and entrepreneurs in an effort to build successful, job-creating, Choctaw-owned companies within the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
About The Choctaw Nation
The Choctaw Nation is the third-largest Indian Nation in the United States with more than 225,000 tribal members and 12,000-plus associates. This ancient people has an oral tradition dating back over 14,000 years. The first tribe over the Trail of Tears, its historic reservation boundaries are in the southeast corner of Oklahoma, covering 10,923 square miles.
The Choctaw Nation’s vision, “Living out the Chahta Spirit of faith, family and culture,” is evident as it continues to focus on providing opportunities for growth and prosperity.
For more information about the Choctaw Nation, its culture, heritage and traditions, please go to www.choctawnation.com.