Multimillion-dollar investment breathes new life into former OKC National Guard armory

An investment of over $20 million is hoping to transform an old structure in northeast Oklahoma City.

The former National Guard Armory, located along Northeast 23rd Street near Interstate 235, will see renovations that will transform the 90-year-old building into a concert venue capable of holding 4,000 people.

Temple Live Entertainment, the latest purchaser of the old armory, says in addition to the main renovations, its $23 million investment will also create a smaller venue designed for local artists, itself capable of holding up to 500 people.

The blueprints for the planned work have yet to be released, but Beauty Capital Group Inc. and Oklahoma City-based Fischer Companies will undertake the renovations.

Developers say renovating the old armory would not only elevate the area's growing music scene but would also keep business local.

As for what the renovations are said to bring, Temple Live Entertainment says there will be green rooms with showers and gyms, multi-level viewing areas in addition to VIP areas and private suites.

Developers say they do not have a planned day of opening but hope to be able to complete the renovations within a few years.