Woodmont Plans $80M Retail Project at Hard Rock in Catoosa

By Ioana Neamt, Associate Editor

Just one week after Cherokee officials announced a $170 million development project in Tahlequah, Cherokee Nation Businesses has announced a partnership with Woodmont Outlets to develop Cherokee Outlets, an upscale retail project at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. CNB has agreed to lease property to Woodmont Outlets, which plans to invest $80 million into the project.

The Cherokee Outlets project could generate 1,000 permanent jobs, hundreds of construction jobs, $120 million in annual sales and attract two million visitors per year, according to the project’s backers.

“For many years, the Cherokees have set the standard in delivering the most unique and exciting entertainment experience,” says Shawn Slaton, Cherokee Nation Businesses CEO. “We’re once again raising the bar for the entire region. Chief Baker has challenged us to create jobs and invest in the 14 counties of the Cherokee Nation. In the past two weeks, we’ve announced the creation of 2,000 jobs and economic development projects that will benefit the Cherokee people and everyone in northeast Oklahoma.”

Negotiations with potential retailers will begin next week. The project could offer over 300,000 square feet of leasable space to accommodate about 100 retailers. Although the outlets will be located on Cherokee Nation land, sales will still be subject to state and local tax.

Cherokee Nation Businesses also plans to develop The District, a dining and entertainment area to connect the outlets to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. “The proximity to The District will create real synergy for residents and visitors alike, making for a fantastic destination,” said Lisa Wagner, principal with Avison Young Commercial Real Estate.

The project is slated for completion in late 2016.

 Image courtesy of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa Official Facebook Page