Jenks Booms: Riverwalk Revitalized and Downtown "Ten District" Thrives

Jenks, Oklahoma is experiencing a significant revitalization, particularly along its Riverwalk and in its downtown "Ten District." New businesses are opening, existing facilities are undergoing major upgrades, and a strategic focus on economic development is transforming the city into a vibrant destination. This surge in activity promises to boost local commerce and enhance the community experience.

Suite Shots Gears Up for Grand Opening

Suite Shots, a new golf entertainment venue, is set to open at the Jenks Riverwalk this spring following a substantial $5 million renovation. The facility, formerly GolfSuites, will feature three stories with 60 bays, Top Tracer swing technology, a boutique casino with 36 slot machines, four bars, a restaurant, and expanded meeting spaces. OneFire, the Muscogee Creek Nation's holding company and owner of Riverwalk, is financing the improvements, with Suite Shots operating the venue. This venture aims to be a significant draw for the Riverwalk, complementing other businesses and events.

"The Ten District" Fuels Downtown Renaissance

Jenks' downtown area, now known as "The Ten District," is undergoing a rapid business development boom. This initiative, spearheaded by local developers like Bryan Wilks, focuses on revitalizing historic buildings and attracting new businesses. The district, spanning ten blocks from the railroad tracks to the Arkansas River, has seen a influx of retailers and restaurants, including popular spots like The Lodge, The Social, Lenny Lane, and Pure Foods. The strategy mirrors successful developments in other cities, aiming to meet local consumer demand and increase sales tax revenue, which fully funds city services.

Riverwalk Enhancements and Community Events

Beyond new business openings, the Jenks Riverwalk is undergoing a $3.5 million property improvement plan by Rainer Companies. These enhancements include new public restrooms, parking lot upgrades, an interactive water feature, and façade updates. Muscogee (Creek) Nation cultural elements have also been integrated, such as a "HESCI" (hello) sign. The Riverwalk will continue its tradition of successful Summer Concert Series and plans to host over 40 free community events in 2025, including new spring and fall pop-up market series. Despite the cancellation of the annual BoomFest fireworks show due to an incident involving the contracted fireworks company, local businesses like Suite Shots, District Burger, and Los Cabos Mexican Grill continued their July 4th celebrations with special events and entertainment.

Key Takeaways:

• Suite Shots, a major golf entertainment venue, is opening at Jenks Riverwalk after a $5 million renovation.

• Jenks' downtown, branded "The Ten District," is experiencing significant business growth and revitalization.

• The Riverwalk is receiving $3.5 million in property improvements and will host numerous community events.

• The city's economic development strategy focuses on meeting consumer demand and increasing sales tax revenue.

Sources

• Suite Shots to open this spring after $5 million upgrade in Jenks, golf oklahoma.

• Jenks Riverwalk shares updates on 2025 developments | News, fox23.com.

• The Ten District" in Jenks rapidly expands business development | News, fox23.com.

• Jenks Riverwalk businesses continue July 4th celebrations despite BoomFest cancelation, KTUL.

• In conversation: Bryan Wilks, a Jenks developer who wants to turn downtown into the Ten District, TulsaPeople.