Oklahoma City Thunder Arena Touches Down With Concrete

The Oklahoma City Thunder’s new home, Continental Coliseum, is moving forward after groundbreaking in March 2026. This week crews placed the first slab of concrete for the arena’s substructure, marking a major step toward the venue’s rise. Work also includes waterproofing, utility installation, and temporary power setup for the site.

Site Details and Timeline

Continental Coliseum will sit on the block once occupied by the old arena and convention center, bounded by Reno Avenue, Ron Norick Boulevard, Sheridan Avenue and E.K. Gaylord Boulevard. The facility is slated to open in time for the 2028‑2029 season, giving the city a fresh arena for sports and community events.

While the foundation concrete is being poured, the crew is sealing the lower levels against water and laying underground systems that will power the construction zone. Mayor David Holt praised the project as one of the city’s most ambitious undertakings, noting the concrete milestone brings the arena closer to reality.

Preserving Community History

Before the concrete was placed, a legacy capsule was interred to capture the spirit of the area at this turning point. The capsule holds a wooden coin from the 1972 Myriad Convention Center dedication, a letter penned by Mayor Holt, a photograph from the Continental Coliseum groundbreaking ceremony, and a 2023 penny that marked voter approval for the new arena.

This time capsule ensures future generations will have a tangible link to the decisions and moments that led to the arena’s construction. It reflects the community’s ongoing investment in Oklahoma City’s future and the cultural continuity the project aims to honor.

When completed, the arena will solidify the Thunder’s 25‑year commitment to stay in Oklahoma City, providing a long‑term home for the franchise and a catalyst for local economic activity.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: OKC Thunder arena construction hits major milestone as concrete work begins