Amplify: Statement on Uncommon Ground by Chamber CEO and Chamber Executive Committee

“On behalf of the Edmond Chamber of Commerce, we would like to voice concern over recent events having occurred, the results of which appear to be the loss of the Uncommon Ground Park. The potential for this unique project is something Edmond has never experienced but which could lead to tremendous positive growth and opportunity for our community.

A tremendous primary benefit of this park would be attracting and retaining new talent to our community. Adding amenities such as this would help Edmond augment its sense of community, creating a place where people want to come to live, work and play. Not only would this enhance the quality of life for Edmond citizens, the cultural benefits alone of what Uncommon Ground could provide to the city are immeasurable

With private fund raising efforts currently underway for this park, as with other projects, it is always helpful for potential benefactors to know that the City is behind the effort and is supporting the park whether through infrastructure and more, even as those costs are still being determined. The Chamber and the EEDA submitted applications for CARES and ARPA funds for this project. While these applications were not funded, other applications currently in the works along with funds raised to date could enable this project to begin construction. The importance of seeing development happening here adds to the excitement and realization that this could be a unique and special place.

Comparing Uncommon Ground to either the Gathering Place or Myriad Gardens in OKC, it is important to recognize the significant numbers of visitors that would travel here to experience this sculpture park. In terms of size, this park would be much larger than the 15 acre Myriad Gardens and roughly the same size as the current 67 acre Gathering Place. In the first 2 days of the opening of the Gathering Place, 55,000 visitors attended. The Myriad Gardens estimates 200,000 annual visitors. It is not difficult to imagine the impact that Edmond would realize from visitors to Uncommon Ground making purchases for refreshments within the park or venturing out into the community to visit other attractions or restaurants. Visitors that might not have even thought to come to Edmond but for the Uncommon Ground.

The Edmond Chamber has always appreciated the relationship it has with the City of Edmond and would be willing to work with city leaders and stakeholders to provide additional support by facilitating discussions with the goal of ensuring that this project, as well as future projects like these, come to fruition.

We stand ready to assist with making the Uncommon Ground a reality.”

Sherry Jordan, Edmond Chamber of Commerce President & CEO

Edmond Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors – Executive Committee:

Leslie Buford, OU Health Edmond

H.J. Reed, Phillips 66, Retired

Shandy Belford, Arvest Bank

Michelle Keylon, Francis Tuttle Technology Center

Jamey Mullin, ServiceMaster by Eagle-Eye

Sarah Clutts, Spencer Fane, LLP

Kenneth Wohl, Regent Bank