Community Economic Resiliency Initiative (CERI)
This year Choctaw has been chosen as one of the two cities to receive a grant of $22,500 from the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG). This grant has been awarded to support our participation in the prestigious Community Economic Resiliency Initiative (CERI). The heart of this initiative lies in providing practical planning assistance through the Institute for Quality Communities at the University of Oklahoma.
The Community Economic Resiliency Initiative (CERI) is a groundbreaking program that empowers municipal governments like ours to create planning demonstration projects. These projects serve as models for strategic community and economic investment, with a particular emphasis on Placemaking and Cultural Heritage Tourism.
CERI offers Choctaw a one-of-a-kind chance to envision and tap into the economic potential of the 23rd street corridor. While historically serving as the city's economic hub, this corridor has faced challenges for development due to irregular lot shapes and floodplain issues. The corridor's revitalization will be meticulously guided and encompass extensive community research, active engagement with citizens, the collection of valuable recommendations, the application of best practices, and the formulation of precise project implementation strategies.
We are thrilled to embark on this journey, which will not only empower our community but also engage our residents in shaping the future of Choctaw. This initiative aligns with our city's commitment to progress, sustainability, and the betterment of our residents' lives.
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The Highway 62 Corridor
In a world where cities often grow and change at a rapid pace, it's easy for their unique heritage and character to fade into the annals of time. That's why the City of Choctaw is excited about the Community Economic Resiliency Initiative (CERI). This initiative presents an exceptional opportunity to not only preserve our city's rich history but also reinvigorate our community for a more vibrant and prosperous future.
The initiative encompasses the 23rd Street corridor (also known as historic Highway 62), stretching from Hiawassee to Triple X Rd. This corridor holds a profound connection to Choctaw's historical roots. The original township, dating back to the city's inception in 1889 on John Scott Muzzy's Claim, lies within the section between Harper and Choctaw Road. The area also served as the original grazing range for the 7C Ranch and is situated on what was once the North Slope of Line Creek Valley (now known as Choctaw Creek). Furthermore, the Choctaw Coal and Railway Company wielded a substantial influence in molding our unique heritage. The township derived its name from this very railway company, which was in the process of laying down rail lines through the region when the town was founded.
Over time, this corridor has transformed from an area where agricultural goods were exchanged, featuring a train station, cotton gins, and livery stables, to a space embracing the automobile age with service stations and small-town groceries. It witnessed the establishment of Choctaw Plaza, anchored by stores like Otasco and TG&Y, and more recently, the introduction of The Markets. Additionally, the town has celebrated milestones like the arrival of its first Walmart and Starbucks. Throughout this journey, local entrepreneurs have played a crucial role in sustaining the small-town charm, operating businesses such as restaurants, gas stations, assorted service businesses, doctor's offices, and dental practices. Their unwavering commitment has kept the heart of the community beating strong.
While Choctaw may lack a conventional Main Street due to its destruction, caused by tornadoes and fires over the years, the 23rd Street corridor has become a vibrant hub, teeming with a plethora of thriving businesses.
Our goal with the CERI project is to enrich and enhance this historic corridor, create a sense of place, and foster community engagement. This initiative will incorporate placemaking, promote businesses, strengthen partnerships, address flood plain issues, and improve the accessibility and walkability of our city.
Choctaw's legacy will be reignited through a community-focused approach that reconnects us with our past while setting a path for an even more prosperous future.
We invite you to join us on this exciting journey towards preserving our heritage and building a thriving community that reflects our unique needs and aspirations.
CERI Citizen Survey
CERI Student Survey
