Governor’s Office
Governor Fallin today signed a bill that would fund completion of the American Indian Cultural Center and Museum in Oklahoma City. The bill, HB 2237, allows the state to issue $25 million in bonds to aid in the completion of the museum, which will combine with $31 million in privately raised money and $9 million pledged by the city of Oklahoma City.
Creation of the center was authorized in 1994 and construction began in 2006 but stalled as funds ran out. Despite the project being incomplete, the state was forced to pay almost $7 million a year to maintain the property and fund debt service. The legislation signed today allows for the project to be completed and to open to the public, finally delivering a valuable state destination for tourism.
“For years, the Cultural Center has been a potential asset that has gone ignored,” said Fallin. “The completed center promises to be an important tourism attraction, an economic boost for the state and for Oklahoma City, and an educational tool to remind Oklahomans and non-Oklahomans alike of the important contributions that Native Americans have made to our history and culture.”
“My thanks go out to the Legislature for wisely choosing to finish this project, the city of Oklahoma City for its support, and the many individuals and businesses that have worked to raise private dollars to support its completion.”
HB 2237 was authored by House Speaker Jeff Hickman and Senate Pro Tem Brian Bingman. It passed with bipartisan support in both the Oklahoma House and Senate.
