OU Motel demolition begins in Norman, OK, after 75 years of affordable housing

Demolition began Monday on the OU Motel in Norman, Oklahoma, a 75-year-old affordable housing complex on a seven-acre lot. Owner Lucy Sharp operated the excavator for the first strike. The work was originally set for Sept. 1 but was delayed to remove contaminants, according to off-site manager Jim Benson, who confirmed the site is now clear. Sharp said she hopes the property becomes an entertainment and sports venue; Mayor Stephen Tyler Holman wants any redevelopment to address floodplain protection and affordable housing.