The City of Norman established the Strong Neighborhood Initiative (SNI) program to help strengthen and revitalize core neighborhoods, by engaging with neighborhood residents and stakeholders to develop strategies, programs and partnerships that will address housing, economic, infrastructure and social needs as well as be a catalyst to attract new resi­dents and businesses. Starting in 2019 and building upon the success of the same program in Oklahoma City, the City of Norman CDBG staff began the initial steps of funding and programming with Original Townsite Neighborhood.

It soon became apparent that the adjacent area of First Courthouse Neighborhood should also be included. Under the guidance of Neighborhood Alliance, Inc. an additional neighborhood, Old Silk Stocking, formally organized as a Voluntary Neighborhood Association. With this accomplishment and being located adjacent to First Courthouse and Original Townsite Neighborhoods, an amendment was made to the CDBG Action Plan and unanimously approved by the Norman City Council, making them eligible for SNI funding.

The SNI program is considered a five-year commitment; however, if a neighborhood succeeds at meeting or exceeding program mea­sures, the term is shortened. If progress is slower and there are justifiable reasons to continue work beyond five years, there is also the option to extend SNI’s commitment, typically for two (2) years, with the neighborhood’s assurances toward self-sufficiency and support.

SNI Intended Outcomes

Over a five-year period, the SNI intends to tip declining neighborhoods towards long-term, economic sustainability through community engagement, holistic planning strategies, and thoughtful public and private investments.

• Improved quality of life & culture - From place to “A PLACE”

• Engaged and informed neighborhood groups, children and parents

• Decreased turnover in neighborhoods and schools

• Increased homeownership and private investment

• Existing owners staying and aging in place

• Improved property values & market stabilization

• Decreased perception of crime & discrimination

• Greater connectivity and accessibility to jobs, education and services

• Reduction of vacant properties

• Improved health outcomes for all

• Improved green spaces and trees

When addressing instances where citizens feel compelled to express their political views on our platform, it's essential to remind everyone of the primary focus of our community engagement efforts: strengthening our neighborhoods through collaboration and local action. While political discussions may sometimes arise naturally from neighborhood concerns, it's important to maintain a respectful and inclusive atmosphere where all members feel comfortable participating.

We encourage constructive dialogue that directly relates to neighborhood issues and potential solutions. However, it's important to recognize that broader political debates often extend beyond the scope of our platform. Therefore, we kindly ask participants to keep discussions focused on local matters and refrain from engaging in divisive political discourse.

Our goal is to foster a sense of unity and cooperation within our community, regardless of individual political affiliations. By focusing on shared goals and working together to address local challenges, we can make meaningful progress in improving our neighborhoods and enhancing the well-being of all residents. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our platform a positive and productive space for neighborhood engagement.