2016 LAWTON-FORT SILL
ECONOMIC REVIEW
Table of Contents
SILVER SPONSOR
1
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
by Barry Albrecht, President/CEO
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development
Corporation
3
A CITY ON THE MOVE!
by Jerry Ihler, P.E., Lawton City Manager
5
CITY OF LAWTON
8
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
12 EDUCATION
16 HEALTHCARE
19 POPULATION & DEMOGRAPHICS
21 EMPLOYMENT
26 COMMERCE
29 REAL ESTATE
BRONZE SPONSORS
32 BANKING & FINANCIAL SERVICES
34 FORT SILL
35 AGRICULTURE
37 TOURISM
42 RENEWABLE ENERGY
43 COMMUNITY RESOURCES
44 ABOUT LAWTON-FORT SILL
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION
PUBLICATION DESIGN
SIERRA DESIGN & PUBLISHING
PRINTING
ADVANCED PRINTERS
PROJECT CONSULTANT
US ECONOMIC RESEARCH
UsEconomicResearch.com
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Letter from the President
Year 2015/2016 marked another successful and
inspirational year for Lawton Fort Sill Economic
Development Corporation (LED).
Five years ago, LED was formed with precision-like goals in mind
and one of those goals was to ensure Lawton becomes a regional
employment and retail center for Southwest Oklahoma. Today it’s
clear Lawton has become just that. LED continues to build the case for
what true regional collaboration can achieve.
Barry Albrecht
President / CEO
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic
Development Corporation
In 2015, LED was directly responsible for recruiting 616 new
primary jobs with an average annual salary of $43,700 ($51,600
including benefits). This means $31.8 million in new payroll in the
community, which in turn has influenced new retail attraction and
entertainment venues.
LED also focuses on the encouragement of capital investment
within our city. We’ve captured this objective by supporting nearly
$81 million in capital investment in manufacturing and retail
development.
In 2015, the military services announced drastic personnel cuts at
installations across the country. Fort Sill was one of only three Army
installations nationwide that received an increase in personnel.
LED, teaming with our community partners, continues to market
the city’s assets and its patriotism globally to assist in reshaping and
redesigning our community’s image. In March 2016, Lawton was
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nationally recognized as one of ‘Americas Best Defense Communities’ by the
Association of Defense Communities.
The numerous wins we’ve experienced this past fiscal year have provided
us the opportunity to do bigger and better things in the coming year (and that
work has already begun). This year LED will carry on the momentum of our
work in boosting the region’s existing assets, supporting our military
installation to leverage the success of extolling the virtues of Lawton and the
regional cities to targeted markets, and continuing to develop and foster
support with our leaders in Washington.
We cannot undertake this effort alone and we recognize the LED Board of
Directors and the many private investors who have joined with city leadership
and the chamber of commerce in crafting this momentum, which seeks to
fully realize the potential that exists in our great city and our region. We thank
all of those who have stood with us during LED’s first five years and we are
excited about all that we can continue to accomplish in the years to come.
...
Aspirations of greatness are shared;
together with our community and regional partners
we can continue to do great things.
BARRY ALBRECHT
PRESIDENT / CEO
LAWTON-FORT SILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
A City on The Move!
The City of Lawton continues to be a city on the move! Looking back at last
year’s priorities established by Mayor Fred Fitch, Lawton City Council, and this
community it is apparent that “The Move” is now in full swing and the
momentum for this community to stay on the cutting edge of positive change is
well underway. Achieving success and reshaping the future of Lawton is simply not
possible without community involvement! In a very short time this community
has made great strides towards identifying and implementing meaningful
solutions that address these priorities. Last year’s priorities established by the
mayor, council, and this community as well as the progress made on those
priorities are as follows:
Jerry Ihler, P.E.
City Manager
Focus on public safety programs and resources that will create a safer city
Lawton
The city has worked with our police union to increase entry-level salaries for
our police officers by 16.13 percent and provided a $2,500 incentive payment to each existing officer in an
effort to boost our recruitment and retention efforts within the department. A similar two-year contract was
successfully negotiated with the fire union. An engineer/architect was hired to begin the planning and design
work required for building a new and improved public safety facility while incorporating new, exciting, and
positive opportunities for the public to interact with our police and fire professionals. In addition, a contract
was recently awarded to begin construction of the new fire station #8 to be located in Southwest Lawton,
which will provide increased fire protection for the existing areas as well as fire protection for future
development in the southwest part of the city.
Explore new and innovative alternative water technologies to preserve our natural water resources while
balancing our community’s need to attract and retain economic development opportunities
It appears we survived the drought of record from 2010 into 2015. However, the citizens were forward
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thinking and realized that in order to sustain economic growth and provide future development it is
necessary to explore alternative water resources and technologies. The citizens passed an extension to the
2012 Capital Improvements Program that included $60 million for exploring alternative water resources in
an effort to increase Lawton/Fort Sill’s overall raw water supply to meet future demands and allow for
continued economic growth.
Closely monitor and evaluate any potential community impact resulting from the Department of the
Army’s future announcement regarding the Fort Sill Army Installation
The efforts of our community leaders, congressional delegates, and military counterparts at Fort Sill were
once again successful in exhibiting the importance of the strong partnership between the Lawton/Fort Sill
Community and the mission of the Fort Sill Army Installation. This effort resulted in an announcement that
Fort Sill would actually increase in numbers by approximately 800 soldiers over the next two years. Fort Sill
was one of only a few military bases that were able to maintain a status quo or experience an increase in
number of troops during this recent round of military troop reductions.
Monitor the fiscal health of our general fund budget and finding balance between demand, productivity,
and efficiency of the city’s core public service offerings
Although revenues have been down due mainly to the decrease in the sale of water because of a wetterthan-normal summer and fall in 2015 as well as the success of our water conservation education program
during the drought period, city department heads have done a wonderful job reducing expenditures
matching the reduction in revenues. City staff continues to use new technology increasing productivity and
efficiency to be able to provide the city’s core public services to the citizens of Lawton.
Build lasting relationships with our citizens and community partners whether governmental, tribal, state,
federal, corporate, or non-profit organizations.
The perception, or image, that our community projects, is both important and lasting. The city will
continue to work diligently to improve upon customer service ideals and positive interaction with the public.
In closing, I am very encouraged by the many exciting possibilities and opportunities that lie before us.
I have little doubt that, as a community, we will continue to adapt to the challenges that are ahead of us, and
capture the momentum needed to propel us into future success. This has been evident by the great strides
that have been made in just the past year. Thank you for the opportunity to serve each of you and this
community. It has been a momentous year of change, which has undoubtedly allowed for Lawton to continue
as a community on “The Move!”
I am very
encouraged by the
many exciting
possibilities and
opportunities that lie
before us.
2016 • LAWTON
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City of Lawton
The City of Lawton, founded in 1901, is the largest of 10 cities and towns in Comanche County. It
serves as county seat and is the fifth largest city in Oklahoma. At an elevation of 1,150 feet, Lawton is
located approximately 90 miles southwest of Oklahoma City along Interstate 44. Fort Sill, an active U.S.
Army installation, is on the city’s north side and is part of city limits as the result of annexation in the
1990s. Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge is northwest of Lawton. With 97,019 residents as of
LAWTON WEATHER
MONTH
AVG. HIGH
AVG. LOW AVG. TEMP. PRECIP. (IN.)
January
41.4
27.1
39.2
1.22
February
55.2
31.2
43.2
1.66
March
64.0
40.3
52.1
2.51
April
73.4
48.5
60.9
2.89
May
81.3
58.9
70.1
4.53
June
89.5
67.3
78.4
4.43
July
95.1
71.8
83.4
2.26
August
94.9
70.9
82.9
2.75
September
85.9
62.4
74.1
3.27
October
75.0
50.1
62.6
3.67
November
62.4
38.6
50.5
1.84
December
51.5
28.7
40.1
1.82
Annual
73.3
49.7
61.5
32.85
Source: National Weather Service.
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2014, Lawton accounts for more than three-quarters of the countywide population. Smaller cities and
towns of Cache, Chattanooga, Elgin, Faxon, Fletcher, Geronimo, Indiahoma, Medicine Park, and Sterling
make up the remainder.
As Lawton’s largest employer, Fort Sill is the main economic engine of the region. Much of what makes
Fort Sill an ideal location to mobilize the armed forces also makes the area well-suited for commercial
activity. That includes close proximity to Oklahoma City (90 miles), closeness to Altus and Sheppard air bases
(each is 50 miles via four-lane divided highway), location along Interstate 44 and three major U.S. highways,
rail lines serving Burlington Northern and Union Pacific, direct interstate highway access to Dallas-Fort
Worth (180 miles), controlled airspace suitable for manned and unmanned systems testing and training, and
the full-service Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport, capable of handling any size commercial aircraft with
commercial service provided by American Airlines’ regional affiliate American Eagle.
COST OF LIVING
LAWTON
OKLAHOMA CITY
TULSA
2011
95.6
90.5
90.0
2012
97.3
90.8
89.2
2013
96.2
90.3
88.3
2014
94.2
90.1
88.7
2015
92.2
88.1
86.0
Source: Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Cost of
Living Index.
COST OF LIVING INDEX
The Cost of Living Index, published by the Council for Community and Economic
Research, compares costs in more than 250 participating areas in all 50 states.
The average for all participating places nationwide equals 100 and each
participant’s index is read as a percentage of the average for all places.
LAWTON COST OF LIVING
COMPOSITE
INDEX
GROCERY
ITEMS
HOUSING
UTILITIES
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTH
CARE
MISC.
GOODS &
SERVICES
2011
95.6
95.0
98.2
93.1
104.2
94.6
91.7
2012
97.3
96.2
89.4
93.1
111.5
104.9
99.1
2013
96.2
86.5
92.4
86.5
108.1
103.4
100.4
2014
94.2
94.9
91.0
87.6
101.3
102.1
95.1
2015
92.2
99.5
90.0
88.3
95.4
105.4
89.5
Source: Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Cost of Living Index.
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In addition to Fort Sill, the City of Lawton is home to several other large employers including Goodyear
Tire & Rubber and Bar-S Foods, a leading meat processing company. Serco, Inc. expanded to Lawton in late
2013 to service a contract with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Medicare &
Medicaid Services supporting health benefit exchanges. Lawton is also home to Cameron University, which
attracts students from across Oklahoma, United States, and more than 40 different countries. In 2014,
Military.com listed Lawton as one of the top 10 cities in the United States to find a job. Lawton ranked sixth
on the list and second in job growth. In 2016, Association of Defense Communities and the Defense
Communities Caucus designated Lawton as a ‘Great American Defense Community’ for providing
unwavering support to service members and their families.
LAWTON SALES TAX RATES
RATE %
State of Oklahoma
4.500
Comanche County
0.375
City of Lawton
4.125
TOTAL
9.000
Note: As of February 2016. Source: Oklahoma Tax Commission.
PROPERTY TAXES
There are more than 37 different property tax rates in
Comanche County depending on the school district, city,
and vocational technical school district in which the
property is located. Rates vary from about $75 to $110
per $1,000 of assessed value. The county applies an
assessment ratio of 11.25 percent (for both real and
personal property) to the market value, with a $1,000
homestead exemption for primary residence. Thus,
primary residence valued at $150,000 would have an
assessed value of $16,875, reduced to $15,875 after
the exemption. Depending on location of the property
within the county, annual taxes would range from about
$1,190 to $1,750.
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Economic Development
Local Organizations
LAWTON-FORT SILL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation (LED) is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit corporation
supported and led by local business and community leaders, city government, and top academic institutions.
Its mission is to drive and ensure economic growth through business recruitment, retention, and expansion;
capital investment; and creation of high-quality jobs in the Lawton area with a focus on high-technology
industries. LED services include:
•
Economic development project management
•
Marketing the region to attract prospective employers, funding, and investors
•
Custom demographic research and economic impact analysis
•
Building and site location inventory
•
Real estate analysis and market research including site selection assistance for builders and developers
•
Facilitation of state and local incentives
•
Direct access to financial services
•
Coordination of design and implantation of customized business and industry training
•
Local government-relation services to new industries
•
Industrial Development Agency liaison
•
Community economic development planning
For more information, visit www.LawtonEDC.com.
2016 • LAWTON
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GREAT PLAINS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Great Plains Economic Development Center (EDC), a division of Great Plains Technology Center,
supports and promotes economic development in Southwest Oklahoma, providing consultation, training,
and assistance in entrepreneurship and business development, agricultural enterprise management,
management and leadership development, government procurement assistance, safety and environmental
services, corporate training and employee development, corporate recruitment, employee selection, and
computer skills.
For more information, visit www.EDC.GreatPlains.edu.
CENTER FOR EMERGING TECHNOLOGY & ENTREPRENEURIAL STUDIES
Cameron University's Center for Emerging Technology & Entrepreneurial Studies (CETES) is its
initiative and commitment to economic development. CETES promotes and assists business creation,
stabilization, and growth. Key functions include:
•
growing and nurturing technology companies in a state-of-the-art technology incubator;
•
providing a structure that assists with technological support, angel and venture capital networking, and
development of vital entrepreneurial skills necessary to succeed;
•
creating a viable 21st century workforce skilled in the operation and invention of technologies critical
to the future;
•
assisting existing organizations planning and executing growth strategies; and
•
providing a catalyst and center point for regional economic development activities in Southwest
Oklahoma.
CETES runs a state-certified business incubator program that assists entrepreneurs by providing office
space, infrastructure, and a host of services such as market analysis, web development, and access to funding.
CETES also works with existing companies on web development, market research, and growth strategies. As
a division of Cameron, CETES has access to valuable resources including student interns and faculty
expertise.
For more information, visit www.CETES.org.
ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CENTRAL OKLAHOMA GOVERNMENTS
Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (ASCOG) Community and Economic
Development (CED) division provides communities with technical assistance and planning support for
community and economic development projects and activities. The CED division works in conjunction with
Oklahoma Department of Commerce, USDA Rural Development, Oklahoma Water Resources Board, and
other federal and state agencies to identify and procure funding for a variety of programs. The highest
priority project areas are planning, funding, and constructing vital water and sewer infrastructure
improvements. Other areas include codebooks and grant/loan applications and administration. Priorities in
economic development include creating jobs and improving local economies throughout the area. Originally
created as an Economic Development District, ASCOG has worked to promote industrial park development
funding, small and large business financing packages, business planning, creation of revolving loan funds to
expand the availability of capital, and downtown revitalization. The Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP)
program is administered through CED and applications are taken each year to fund local projects selected
through a competitive process. Eligible applicants include cities, towns, and unincorporated areas with a
population under 7,000.
For more information, visit www.ASCOG.org.
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Industrial Land
There are numerous shovel-ready industrial parks in the Greater Lawton industrial sector. Within
Lawton city limits there are two major industrial parks: one located in the southwest region of town and the
other near Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport. There are numerous other established industrial parks in
adjacent towns (Elgin, Duncan, Hobart, Altus, and Frederick). Many sites are rail served. Present usage
includes large tire manufacturing, food processing, cosmetics, aerospace, and defense contracting. LawtonFort Sill Economic Development Corporation can support public/private partnerships in incentivized design
build projects. For more information, visit www.LawtonEDC.com.
Local Incentives
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation (LED) can help coordinate incentive packages
designed to aid clients in building cost-effective profitable operations. Packages have ranged from a few
hundred-thousand to several million dollars. LED takes into account several factors when considering
incentive packages, including total capital investment, number of employees, pay rates, benefits offered to
employees, and size of the site needed. Local incentives include building sites at no cost, build-to-suit with
lease-back, infrastructure assistance, and no-cost corporate training.
City of Lawton’s downtown redevelopment plan includes provisions to assist both regional and
neighborhood retail development. The city may assist an eligible retailer or retail developer by providing
certain public infrastructure improvements, including roadways, traffic signals, utility extensions, drainage
improvements, streetscape improvements, extended public transportation network, parking garages, fire
hydrants, and related infrastructure. The city may also provide tax increment financing to projects to achieve
specific public policy objectives, such as eliminating blight, encouraging economic revitalization, and
encouraging investment and development that otherwise might not occur.
State Incentives
Contact Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation for more information on these and other
state-level incentive programs:
QUALITY JOBS 10-YEAR CASH INCENTIVE
Cash-back job creation incentive for new manufacturing and service industry investment that allows
qualifying businesses creating quality jobs to receive a special incentive to locate or expand in Oklahoma
INVESTMENT/NEW JOBS TAX CREDIT PACKAGE
Primarily targeted to manufacturing companies, allows a five-year tax credit on the greater of 1 percent
per year of investment in qualified new depreciable property or a credit of $500 per new job (incentives of 2
percent of new investment or $1,000 per new job if investment is greater than $40 million or in an enterprise
zone)
QUALITY JOBS + INVESTMENT TAX CREDITS
Targeted to manufacturing industries with capital investment of at least $40 million in addition to
creating new jobs that pay more than Oklahoma’s average wage (five-year tax credit on greater of 2 percent
per year of investment in qualified new depreciable property or a credit of $1,000 per year per new job)
21ST CENTURY QUALITY JOBS
Targets and promotes high-wage jobs by developing clusters around knowledge-based service industries
SMALL EMPLOYER QUALITY JOBS
Provides quarterly incentive payments to a qualifying small employer (90 or fewer employees) up to 5
percent of new taxable payroll for up to 7 years for annual salaries at least 110 percent of county average wage
(must attain 75 percent out-of-state sales)
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POOLED FINANCING
Financing mechanism targeting job creation and infrastructure development using withholding taxes
and other revenue to satisfy debt service and create jobs and investment
SALES TAX REFUNDS
Available on construction materials for certain manufacturers and aircraft maintenance repair facilities;
on purchase of computers, data processing equipment, and telecommunication equipment for certain
aircraft facilities; and purchase of computer services and data processing equipment for qualified computer
services or research and development companies
CUSTOMIZED EMPLOYEE TRAINING
No-cost/low-cost way for new or growing companies creating jobs to get a skilled, focused, and
motivated workforce (includes training, assessment, supplies, instructional materials and more)
FIVE-YEAR AD VALOREM TAX EXEMPTION
Available for manufacturing, research and development, warehouse and distribution, certain
computer/data processing services, wind power, refineries, and aircraft repair
AEROSPACE INDUSTRY ENGINEER WORKFORCE TAX CREDIT
Tax credit for aerospace companies hiring engineers equal to 5 percent of compensation paid to an
engineer until December 31, 2016 or 10 percent if the engineer graduated from an Oklahoma college or
university (up to $12,500 per employee per year; includes additional credit up to 50 percent of the tuition
reimbursed to an employee until December 31, 2016)
KEY SALES TAX EXEMPTIONS
•
Processing machinery and equipment
•
Electricity, fuel, and tangible property used in manufacturing
•
Interstate 1-800, WATS, and private-line business telecommunications systems
•
Freeport inventory benefits
•
Industrial access road assistance
•
Foreign trade zones
•
State and local financing programs
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Education
Lawton Public Schools
Lawton Public School District operates 19 elementary schools (including two pre-kindergarten centers),
four middle schools, and four high schools (including Gateway Success Center alternative high school). The
school district employs approximately 2,300 administrators, teachers, and support personnel. Nearly half the
student population are military family members.
For more information, visit www.LawtonPS.org.
EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
2000
35%
2014
30%
25%
20%
15%
10%
13.4%
13.2%
7.3%
6.1%
Bachelor's Degree
Graduate or
Professional Degree
Note: Population 25 years and older. Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2014
American Community Survey) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
0%
Associate Degree
United States
6.0%
5.8%
Oklahoma
31.0% Some College
29.8% NO DEGREE
Comanche County
5%
High School grad
or equivalent
BACHELOR’S DEGREE
OR HIGHER
30.3%
30.5%
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE
OR HIGHER
9.0% 9th to 12th grade
10.3% NO DIPLOMA
20.7% 21.6% 24.2% 30.1%
Less than 9th grade
88.0% 88.6% 87.3% 86.9%
3.1%
Lawton
40%
4.0%
100%
90%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10%
0%
LAWTON EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT
Note: Population 25 years and older. Source: U.S. Census Bureau (Census 2000
and 2014 American Community Survey) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
2016 • LAWTON
OKLAHOMA’S GRADING SYSTEM
Oklahoma’s A-F School Grading System measures
school performance based on academic growth and
how well students meet grade-level performance
standards. Additional factors include graduation and
dropout rates for high schools, and attendance rates
for elementary schools.
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
LAWTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS ENROLLMENT
15,900
15,650
15,400
15,150
OKLAHOMA’S A-F GRADING SYSTEM
(LAWTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS, 2015)
SCHOOL
15,875
2012
15,684
2013
15,463
2014
15,270
2015
14,978
2016
GRADE
Eisenhower High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BLawton High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C+
MacArthur High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B
Central Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D+
Eisenhower Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C
MacArthur Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C+
Tomlinson Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CAdams Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B
Almor West Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BBrockland Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C
Carriage Hills Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D
Cleveland Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B+
Crosby Park Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B
Edison Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BEisenhower Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D+
Geronimo Road Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C+
Hugh Bish Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F
Lincoln Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C+
Park Lane Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BPat Henry Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D+
Pioneer Park Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C+
Ridgecrest Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .DSheridan Road Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B+
Sullivan Village Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CSwinney Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .CWashington Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BWhittier Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B+
Wilson Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .D
Woodland Hills Elementary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B+
Source: Oklahoma Department of Education.
14,900
Source: Oklahoma Department of Education and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
PER PUPIL SPENDING (2014)
LAWTON PUBLIC COMMUNITY
SCHOOLS
GROUP AVERAGE
Instruction
Student Support
OKLAHOMA
$3,980
$3,834
$4,151
$862
$596
$540
Instructional Support
$253
$321
$298
District Administration
$217
$146
$231
School Administration
District Support
$491
$471
$445
$1,433
$1,370
$1,406
Other
$1,903
$1,005
$804
Total
$9,140
$7,744
$7,875
Source: Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability.
STUDENT AND TEACHER MEASURES (2014)
LAWTON PUBLIC COMMUNITY
SCHOOLS
GROUP AVERAGE
OKLAHOMA
Senior Graduation Rate (2014 Seniors)
99.0%
98.0%
98.1%
4-year Dropout Rate (Class of 2014)
6.8%
7.3%
8.7%
Average ACT Score (Class of 2014)
20.4
20.7
20.8
$45,431
$45,531
$44,285
13.6
11.2
12.2
Average Teacher Salary*
Average Years Teacher Experience
*Salary with fringe; nonspecial education only.
Source: Oklahoma Office of Educational Quality and Accountability.
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Cameron University
Cameron University, located in Lawton, is the largest four-year higher education institution in Southwest
Oklahoma with an average fall enrollment of approximately 5,100 students, including approximately 260
international students from more than 50 countries. Cameron offers associate, baccalaureate, and master's
degrees in more than 50 degree programs. “America's Best Colleges” by U.S. News and World Report has
consistently ranked Cameron among the top institutions nationwide for students graduating with the least
debt. More than $60 million in capital improvements have been made to Cameron's campus in recent years,
including construction of Cynthia S. Ross Hall, McMahon Centennial Complex, Bentley Gardens, Academic
Commons, and McMahon Field and Athletics Center. Cameron University is accredited by the Higher
Learning Commission of the North Central Association.
For more information, visit www.Cameron.edu.
CAMERON UNIVERSITY DEGREE PROGRAMS
GRADUATE PROGRAMS
Business Administration
Education
Educational Leadership
Behavioral Sciences
Organizational Leadership
UNDERGRADUATE PROGRAMS
Accounting
Agriculture
Allied Health Sciences
Art
Biology
Business
Business Administration
Chemistry
Communications
Computer Science
Criminal Justice
Early Childhood Education
Elementary Education
Engineering
English
English Education
Family and Child Studies
History
Interdisciplinary Studies
Information Technology
International Languages
Journalism and Media Production
Mathematics
Mathematics Education
Multimedia Design
Music
Music Education
Nursing
Organizational Leadership
Physics
Political Science
Psychology
Respiratory Care
Social Studies Education
Sociology
Sports and Exercise Science
Technology
Theatre Arts
Great Plains Technology Center
Great Plains Technology Center provides workforce training under more than 30 adult career
development education plans including biomedical science and medicine, emergency medical services,
network systems technician, pre-engineering, radiologic technology, and surgical technologists. Enrollments
include high school students, full- and part-time adult students, and employees sent by regional businesses
for specific training. Great Plains Technology Center also operates Great Plains Economic Development
Center (see the Economic Development section of this publication).
For more information, visit www.GreatPlains.edu.
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Fort Sill Education Centers
Several colleges and universities offer courses on Fort Sill through Harry S. Truman Education Center
(Sill-www.Army.mil), including:
CAMERON UNIVERSITY
Cameron University offers more than 50 degrees through two-year, four-year, and graduate programs at
the Lawton campus. On-post courses are offered in short-term, noon-hour, and evening formats.
For more information, visit www.Cameron.edu.
CENTRAL TEXAS COLLEGE
CTC offers associate of applied science degrees in applied management, applied management with
computer applications, business management, criminal justice, legal assistant/paralegal, information
technology, business programmer analyst, restaurant and culinary management, and hotel management
specialization. CTC also offers associate of arts degrees in general studies and social science.
For more information, visit www.CTCD.edu.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE
Columbia College offers associate, bachelor's degrees, and online master's degrees.
For more information, visit www.CCIS.edu.
UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA
Master's degrees are offered in human relations, international relations, economics, and communication.
For more information, visit www.OU.edu.
UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY
UIU offers associate degrees in liberal arts and business, and bachelor’s degrees in social science, public
administration, law enforcement, fire science, and business human resource management. All undergraduate
programs are available online and through independent study.
For more information, visit www.UIU.edu/FortSill.
WEBSTER UNIVERSITY
Master's degrees are offered in business administration, human resources management, information
technology management, and management and leadership.
For more information, visit www.Webster.edu/FtSill.
WAYLAND BAPTIST UNIVERSITY
Master's degrees are offered in counseling, public administration, and history.
For more information, visit www.WBU.edu.
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Healthcare
In addition to Comanche County Memorial Hospital and Southwestern Medical Center, Lawton is home
to Reynolds Army Community Hospital (www.RACH.Sill.AMEDD.Army.mil) on Fort Sill supporting
TRICARE-eligible beneficiaries including active duty military personnel, retirees, and their families; U.S.
Public Health Service Lawton Indian Hospital (www.IHS.gov/Oklahoma), a federally owned facility providing
short-term acute care to the Native American tribal population; Veterans Administration Lawton/Fort Sill
Community Based Outpatient Clinic (www.Oklahoma.VA.gov) located on Fort Sill providing services to
eligible veterans; and numerous private-practice physicians and healthcare providers. Comanche County
Health Department (www.ComancheCounty.US), located in Lawton, monitors community health, identifies
and responds to health threats, provides information, enforces laws protecting health, and provides services
to prevent and control disease.
Comanche County Memorial Hospital
Comanche County Memorial Hospital is a 283-bed regional referral center and integrated delivery
system providing 24-hour comprehensive services from diagnostic procedures to open heart surgery. CCMH
offers a full-service emergency department staffed with physicians, heart doctors, nurses, and other
emergency personnel trained in basic and advanced life support. CCMH’s Level III Trauma Center handles
emergency situations from major trauma to minor lacerations, bumps, and bruises. In 2015, CCMH became
a World Health Organization (WHO)/ United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Baby Friendly Hospital—
a designation for facilities held to specified standards of safety, nurse staffing, patient education, and wellbeing of the baby. CCMH is one of a small number of neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in Oklahoma and
the only Level 2 NICU outside the Oklahoma City and Tulsa Metro areas
In 2013, CCMH added the high field strength MAGNETOM Espree from Siemens Heathcare. Coupled
with Hologic Sentinelle breast coil and computer-assisted biopsy system, the MAGNETOM Espree is the
world's first Open Bore MRI. Also in 2013, CCMH began offering electrophysiology services, including highly
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
advanced equipment designed to diagnose and treat abnormal heart rhythms. In 2014, CCMH’s remodeled
its emergency department (the new, 36-bed state-of-the-art facility offers advanced technology and capability
for further expansion). In 2015, CCMH began offering hospice and supportive care services.
In 2015, CCMH earned the 2015 Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s Best Hospitals for Heart
Care. CCMH was named National Research Corporation's 2012/2013 Consumer Choice Award winner. In
2012 the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons granted its Outstanding Achievement
Award to CCMH's cancer program. CCMH is fully accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of
Healthcare Organizations and the Council on Accrediting Rehabilitation Facilities.
For more information, visit www.CCMHonline.com.
COMANCHE COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
SERVICES
Bariatric Surgery
Cancer Care
Center for Digestive Health
Center for Sleep Medicine
Diabetes Services
Emergency Care
Family Care
Heart and Vascular Services
Home Health
Hospice Services
Infusion Services
Laboratory
Lawton Medi-Equip
McMahon-Tomlinson Nursing Center
Neurosurgical Services
Occupational Health
Orthopedic Services
Pharmacy & Poison Control
Podiatry
Radiology
Rehabilitation
School of Medical Technology
Silver Linings Geriatric Psychiatry
Stroke Care
Surgical Services
Women's Health
Wound Care
Southwestern Medical Center
Southwestern Medical Center (SWMC), an affiliate of Capella Healthcare, is a 199-bed full-service
hospital providing a comprehensive range of medical services and care. SWMC has a 24-hour emergency
department and is a Level 3 Trauma Center. SWMC’s free-standing Southwestern Behavioral Health Center
offers inpatient and outpatient services for children, adolescents, and adults. SWMC’s Southwestern
Neuroscience Center is Southern Oklahoma’s first and only Joint Commission Certified Primary Stroke
Center. Other medical technologies include a Sleep Center accredited by American Academy of Sleep
Medicine, a Wound-Healing and Hyperbaric Center, and a Center for Sports and Rehabilitation offering
acute, inpatient rehabilitation services and outpatient rehabilitation.
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In 2014, SWMC opened the new Surgery Center of Southwestern—a state-of-the-art 10,000 square-foot
facility. In 2013, SWMC acquired an outpatient imaging service (The Imaging Center with the only open
MRI in Southwest Oklahoma). In 2012, SWMC installed a new Discovery NM630 nuclear imaging camera—
the first in Oklahoma and the fifth in the nation. Recent investments in new technology include a 1.5 Tesla
HD MRI (the first and only in Southwest Oklahoma) providing a real-time, life-like 3D look at the body’s
internal organs and structures, and a Lightspeed VTC scanner delivering high-speed, clear, high resolution
3D images.
SWMC is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations and was
named by The Oklahoman as one of ‘The Oklahoman Top Workplaces’ for three years in a row in 2013, 2014,
and 2015.
For more information, visit www.SWMConline.com.
SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER SERVICES
Ambulatory Surgery Center
Cardiology
Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)
Cosmetic Surgery
Diagnostic Imaging
Emergency Medicine
Endoscopy/Special Procedures
Ear, Nose & Throat
Gastroenterology
General Surgery
Gynecology
Inpatient Surgery
Intensive Care
Internal Medicine
Laboratory Services
Laparoscopic Surgery
Lithotripsy
Mammography
Medical/Surgical Care
MRI
Nuclear Medicine
Nutritional Services
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Outpatient Diagnostics
Outpatient Surgery
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Podiatry
Respiratory Therapy
Sleep Center
Ultrasound
Urology
Wound-Healing and Hyperbarics
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Population & Demographics
The population of Lawton as of July 2014 was 97,019. As the economic hub of Comanche County, the
city’s daytime population is much higher. Lawton’s retail market serves an estimated population of more than
165,000. According to Oklahoma Department of Transportation, 25,400 vehicles a day passed through the
Lawton Metro Area along I-44 in 2014 (projected to grow to 29,100 by 2034) and 11,300 vehicles per day
traveled along US 277 (projected to grow to 15,700 by 2034).
The city’s population includes Fort Sill as a result of annexation in the 1990s. As of the 2014 American
Community Survey, 19.1 percent of Lawton’s population ages 18 and older are civilian veterans of the
military (nearly two-and-a-half times the national level). This is largely due to the number of Department of
the Army civilian positions at Fort Sill, as well as defense contracting personnel (many of whom are former
members of the military).
POPULATION
LAWTON
1990
2000
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
COMANCHE COUNTY
POPULATION
GROWTH %
POPULATION
80,561
92,888
96,867
98,283
98,561
97,169
97,019
N/A
——
15.3
4.3
1.5
0.3
-1.4
-0.2
N/A
111,486
114,996
125,389
126,072
126,609
125,100
125,225
124,648
OKLAHOMA
GROWTH % POPULATION
——
3.1
9.0%
0.5%
0.4%
-1.2%
0.1%
-0.5%
3,145,576
3,450,451
3,751,351
3,454,365
3,751,351
3,786,626
3,817,679
3,853,405
GROWTH %
——
9.7
8.6
-7.9
8.6
0.9
0.8
0.9
Note: Growth rates shown for 2000 and 2010 reflect preceding 10-year period; rates for 2011 forward are
annual. N/A = Not Available. Source: U.S. Census Bureau and UsEconomicResearch.com.
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
POPULATION PROJECTIONS
YEAR
LAWTON
COMANCHE COUNTY
2020
101,747
128,373
2025
105,030
130,233
2030
108,312
132,094
2035
111,595
133,954
2040
114,878
135,815
2045
118,161
137,675
2050
121,444
139,536
Source: County projections by Oklahoma Department of Commerce;
city projections by UsEconomicResearch.com.
LAWTON RACIAL COMPOSITION
LAWTON AGE GROUP DISTRIBUTION
2000
8.4%
8.0%
7.2%
8.8%
10.8%
16.6%
14.8%
9.9%
3.4%
3.0%
5.2%
3.0%
1.1%
Under 5
5 to 9
10 to 14
15 to 19
20 to 24
25 to 34
35 to 44
45 to 54
55 to 59
60 to 64
65 to 74
75 to 84
85 and over
2010
8.0%
7.0%
6.2%
7.8%
11.2%
18.2%
12.0%
11.9%
4.7%
3.7%
5.0%
3.3%
1.2%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (Census 2000 and Census 2010).
White
60.3%
INCOME
$70,000
$52,500
Black or African
American
21.4%
Other
10.4%
$35,000
$17,500
Native Hawaiian
and Pacific Islander 0.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 4.7%
Asian 2.6%
$0
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (Census 2010) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
Lawton
$21,692
$23,609
$25,229
$28,889
/
$50,967
$56,954
$58,710
$65,910
LAWTON
$41,648
$47,235
$47,529
$53,657
20
MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD
INCOME
MEDIAN FAMILY
INCOME
PER CAPITA INCOME
Comanche County
Oklahoma
United States
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2014 American Community Survey) and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
HISPANIC/LATINO POPULATION
20%
18%
16%
14%
12%
10%
8%
6%
4%
2%
0%
POVERTY LEVEL
22%
17%
11%
12.6%
11.2%
8.9%
16.3%
Lawton
Comanche
County
Oklahoma
United States
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (Census 2010) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
6%
0%
21.4%
18.3%
16.6%
15.5%
Lawton
Comanche
County
Oklahoma
United States
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2014 American Community Survey) and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Employment
Lawton Workforce Center
Oklahoma Employment Security Commission's Lawton Workforce Center provides services and
assistance to businesses and job seekers to match jobs and workers, increase the efficiency of local labor
markets, prepare a skilled workforce, and enhance and align workforce skills to meet local labor market
needs. LWC assists businesses with recruitment and attraction of new employees and provides testing,
counseling, and placement services for job seekers; solicits job orders from employers; refers applicants to
jobs; provides computerized job banks for job information; and provides special services for veterans and
disabled veterans (including job development, counseling, and placement).
For more information, visit www.OK.gov/OESC_web.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE (%)
LAWTON MSA LABOR MARKET DATA
LAWTON
MSA
OKLAHOMA
UNITED
STATES
2011
5.8
5.8
8.9
2012
6.0
5.2
2013
5.9
2014
4.8
LABOR FORCE
EMPLOYMENT
UNEMPLOYMENT
2011
53,641
50,551
3,091
8.1
2012
53,640
50,446
3,193
5.3
7.4
2013
53,028
49,928
3,100
4.5
6.2
2014
51,567
49,115
2,452
51,740
49,514
2,226
2015
4.3
4.2
5.3
2015
2016 (Jan)*
4.2
4.1
4.9
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
*Seasonally adjusted. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
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Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments (Workforce Development)
The Association of South Central Oklahoma Governments’ Workforce Development Division provides:
•
Career planning
•
Identification of occupations in high demand in the local area, state, and nation
•
Wage and salary information
•
Job skills, experience, and training or education requirements for high demand and other occupations
•
Information on training and education opportunities for high demand occupations
•
Access to labor market information
•
Access to local, state, and national job postings
•
Assistance with resume or application preparation
•
Self-assessment of basic educational skills
•
Self-assessment of occupational interests
•
Information on supportive services available in the area
•
Eligibility determination for Workforce Investment Act Title I Adult, Dislocated Worker, or Youth
Services
•
Referral to other workforce system partners
For more information, visit www.ASCOG.org.
LAWTON MSA NONFARM PAYROLL EMPLOYMENT
2015
2014
CHANGE
% CHANGE
Total Nonfarm
46,300
45,800
500
1.1%
Total Private
31,200
30,500
700
2.3%
Goods Producing
5,300
5,400
-100
-1.9%
Construction*
1,800
1,700
100
5.9%
Manufacturing
3,600
3,700
-100
-2.7%
Service-Providing
40,900
40,500
400
1.0%
25,800
25,200
600
2.4%
7,600
7,500
100
1.3%
600
500
100
20.0%
Retail Trade
5,600
5,700
-100
-1.8%
Transportation and Utilities
1,400
1,400
0
0.0%
Private Service-Providing
Trade, Transportation, and Utilities
Wholesale Trade
Information
500
500
0
0.0%
Financial Activities
2,300
2,300
0
0.0%
Professional and Business Services
4,900
4,100
800
19.5%
Educational and Health Services
4,400
4,500
-100
-2.2%
Leisure and Hospitality
5,100
5,100
0
0.0%
Other Services
1,200
1,100
100
9.1%
Government
15,100
15,300
-200
-1.3%
Federal Government
4,100
4,200
-100
-2.4%
State Government
1,600
1,700
-100
-5.9%
Local Government
9,500
9,500
0
0.0%
Note: Numbers are rounded to the nearest 100. Discrepancies are due to rounding. *Includes mining and
logging. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and UsEconomicResearch.com.
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
South Central Oklahoma Workforce Investment Board
South Central Oklahoma Workforce Investment Board is comprised of leaders in business, labor
community, public education, and employment organizations representing Comanche, Caddo, Cotton,
Grady, Jefferson, McClain, Stephens, and Tillman counties. The board is charged with the implementation of
the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2014. Services include:
•
Guidance in budgeting, planning, and policy for One-Stop Centers and Service Providers
•
Through the SCOWB Youth Committee, recommendations for youth-related initiatives
•
Selection of operators and providers for One-Stop Centers, Workforce Innovation and Opportunity
Act service providers, and youth activities
•
Coordination with economic development agencies and development of other employer linkages
•
Promotion of business participation in the workforce investment system and assistance with employer
hiring needs.
For more information, visit www.SCOWIB.info.
LAWTON MSA OCCUPATIONS
Service
22.6%
Sales and Office
Management,
Business, Science
and Arts
23.5%
30.3%
9.7%
Natural Resources,
Construction/Maintenance
13.9%
Production,
Transportation, and Material Moving
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2010-2014 American Community Survey 5year estimates) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
LAWTON MSA CLASSES OF WORKERS
Private Wage
and Salary
67.6%
Government
5.4%
26.9%
Self Employed
Unpaid Family Workers 0.1%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2010-2014 American Community Survey 5year estimates) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
INDUSTRIES IN LAWTON MSA
(BY SHARE OF WORKFORCE)
Retail Trade
Education, Health,
& Social Services
13.4%
22.7%
11.4%
Public Admin
12.7%
Other
17.3%
Manufacturing
9.0%
5.5%
Arts, Entertainment,
Recreation, Accommodation,
Food Service
8.0%
Construction
Prof., Scientific, Mgmt,
Admin, & Waste Mgmt
Note: Includes only those industries comprising at least 5 percent of the
workforce. Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2010-2014 American
Community Survey 5-year estimates) and UsEconomicResearch.com.
LAWTON’S TOP EMPLOYERS
FORT SILL
GOODYEAR TIRE AND RUBBER COMPANY
LAWTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
COMANCHE COUNTY HOSPITAL AUTHORITY
SERCO
CITY OF LAWTON
CAMERON UNIVERSITY
BURKBURNETT PUBLIC SCHOOLS
THE GEO GROUP INC.
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER #0269
SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
FORT SILL NATIONAL BANK
APACHE CASINO HOTEL
KIOWA CASINO
WAL-MART SUPERCENTER #5071
CITY NATIONAL BANK
BAR-S FOODS CO.
COMMUNITY ACCESS, INC.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
AMERICAN PHOENIX
COMANCHE COUNTY COMMISSIONER
NORTHROP GRUMMAN
FORT SILL MWR DIRECTORATE & PATRIOT CLUB
GREAT PLAINS TECHNOLOGY CENTER
COMANCHE NATION CASINO
LAWTON CONSTITUTION
EZ GO STORES-JOHNSON OIL COMPANY, INC.
OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
LAWTON MSA EMPLOYERS, EMPLOYEES, AND PAYROLL
Employer Business Establishments
Number of Employees*
Annual Payroll ($1,000)
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2,219
32,704
1,008,818
2,194
32,151
1,008,085
2,175
32,153
1,038,345
2,180
31,596
1,024,786
2,162
31,938
1,066,155
*Paid employees for pay period including March 12. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
LAWTON MSA BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS BY EMPLOYMENT-SIZE CLASS (2014)
Number of establishments by employment-size class
INDUSTRY
1-4
5-9
10-19
20-49
50-99 100-249 250-499 500-999 1000+
TOTAL
Accommodation & food services
77
26
43
72
22
0
1
0
0
241
Admin, support, waste mgt, remediation services
58
20
16
12
6
2
1
0
0
115
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
Arts, entertainment & recreation
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
11
4
3
2
2
0
1
0
0
23
Construction
93
37
20
12
4
2
0
0
0
168
5
3
5
3
1
0
0
0
0
17
Educational services
Finance & insurance
107
41
18
9
0
0
2
0
0
177
Health care and social assistance
103
69
53
22
8
3
2
1
1
262
10
6
6
5
2
1
0
0
0
30
Information
Management of companies & enterprises
Manufacturing
0
3
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
8
15
9
9
3
4
2
1
0
1
44
6
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
7
Other services (except public administration)
Mining, quarrying & oil & gas extraction
138
55
24
9
4
0
0
0
0
230
Professional, scientific & technical services
113
32
14
6
1
1
0
0
0
167
83
28
11
1
1
0
0
0
0
124
146
138
85
32
11
4
2
0
0
418
25
4
10
8
2
0
1
0
0
50
Real estate & rental & leasing
Retail trade
Transportation & warehousing
Utilities
Wholesale trade
TOTAL
4
0
2
2
1
0
0
0
0
9
37
19
8
6
0
0
0
0
0
70
1,032
494
328
209
70
15
11
1
2
2,162
Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
AVERAGE HOURLY WAGE (2014)
AVERAGE ANNUAL WAGE (2014)
$24.00
$48,000
$18.00
$36,000
$12.00
$24,000
$ 6.00
$12,000
$ 0.00
$17.56
Lawton MSA
$19.64
Oklahoma
$22.71
United States
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and UsEconomicResearch.com.
$ 0.00
$36,520
Lawton MSA
$40,850
Oklahoma
$47,230
United States
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and UsEconomicResearch.com.
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Commerce
Lawton-Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce
The vision of Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce is to be the premiere business organization in
Southwest Oklahoma with strong leadership in the community and state, while providing visionary
leadership in the protection and diversification of the local economy. Its mission is to provide value-added
services to members and the community that create economic opportunities and enhanced quality of life for
citizens through leadership, relevancy, and innovation. The Lawton Fort Sill Chamber provides:
•
Business retention, expansion, and workforce development programs
•
A representative voice for business on key legislative issues that impact growth opportunities
•
Shared commitment to enhancing the region's economic vitality and quality of life
•
Business referrals for its membership
•
Leadership opportunities
•
Exclusive marketing and promotional opportunities
•
Discounted training/educational services in partnership with Great Plains Technology Center
•
Federation membership (small businesses that are members of the Lawton Fort Sill Chamber receive
free membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce)
•
Networking opportunities and business leads
For more information, visit www.LawtonFortSillChamber.com.
2016 • LAWTON
LAWTON PRIMARY MARKET AREA
30 MINUTE DRIVE TIME
/
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
TRAFFIC DATA
According to Oklahoma Department of Transportation,
25,400 vehicles a day passed through the Lawton
Metro Area in 2014 (projected to grow to 29,100 by
2034); 11,300 vehicles per day traveled along US 277
(projected to grow to 15,700 by 2034)
LAWTON MARKET AREA ANALYSIS
PRIMARY
MARKET
30 MIN.
REGIONAL
MARKET
45 MIN.
WORKFORCE
DRAW
60 MIN.
Population
165,587
222,437
421,990
Daytime Population
172,097
225,112
437,309
61,237
83,692
160,179
$55,306
$54,548
$54,422
72,489
91,746
182,644
3,659
4,910
10,067
Households
Average Household Income
Employees (Full Time)
Business Establishments
Note: As of fourth quarter 2015. Source: Alteryx, Inc.
LAWTON MSA RETAIL SALES
YEAR
SALES ($)
CHANGE (%)
LAWTON MSA RESTAURANT & BAR SALES
INFLATION
ADJUSTED
GROWTH (%)
YEAR
SALES ($)
CHANGE (%)
INFLATIONADJUSTED
GROWTH (%)
2011
968,891,946
1.7
-1.5
2011
159,515,858
3.9
0.7
2012
991,135,394
2.3
0.2
2012
167,565,662
5.0
2.9
2013
1,027,206,123
3.6
2.1
2013
181,294,625
8.2
6.7
2014
1,048,856,760
2.1
0.5
2014
200,187,884
10.4
8.8
2015
1,029,630,788
-1.8
-1.9
2015
208,506,974
4.2
4.1
Note: Lawton MSA includes all of Comanche County. Inflation-adjusted
growth is calculated using inflation rates as determined by the Consumer
Price Index (CPI-U) average annual change. Data shown are estimates.
Source: University of Oklahoma Center for Economic and Management
Research, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and UsEconomicResearch.com.
Note: Lawton MSA includes all of Comanche County. Inflation-adjusted
growth is calculated using inflation rates as determined by the Consumer
Price Index (CPI-U) average annual change. Data shown are estimates.
Source: University of Oklahoma Center for Economic and Management
Research, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and UsEconomicResearch.com.
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LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
CITY OF LAWTON HOTEL/MOTEL RECEIPTS
YEAR
SALES ($)
CHANGE (%)
INFLATIONADJUSTED
GROWTH (%)
2011
24,376,000
-6.5
-9.7
2012
23,925,920
-1.8
-3.9
2013
21,978,060
-8.1
-9.6
2014
22,049,400
0.3
-1.3
2015
26,041,160
18.1
18.0
Note: Includes only hotels/motels in Lawton city limits. Years shown are fiscal
years, not calendar years. Inflation-adjusted growth is calculated using inflation
rates as determined by the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) average annual
change. Data shown are estimates based on tax collections. Source: City of
Lawton, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and UsEconomicResearch.com.
LAWTON MSA EMPLOYER BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENTS
INDUSTRY
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
Accommodation and Food Services
210
219
226
232
241
Admin and Suppor, Waste Mgt, Remediation Services
109
112
115
115
115
0
0
1
2
2
Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation
Construction
24
21
23
24
23
192
188
187
178
168
Educational Services
19
17
18
17
17
Finance and Insurance
179
172
178
178
177
Health Care and Social Assistance
275
288
277
274
262
6
3
1
1
0
30
30
31
29
30
9
10
9
9
8
42
42
46
45
44
7
7
8
7
7
Industries not classified
Information
Management of Companies and Enterprises
Manufacturing
Mining, quarrying & oil & gas extraction
Other Services (except Public Administration)
246
236
231
233
230
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
196
179
159
164
167
Real Estate and Rental and Leasing
136
128
125
117
124
Retail Trade
409
417
409
425
418
Transportation and Warehousing
57
56
52
52
50
Utilities
11
7
7
9
9
62
62
72
69
70
Wholesale Trade
Total
2,219 2,194 2,175 2,180 2,162
Note: Lawton MSA includes all of Comanche County. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
2016 • LAWTON
/
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Real Estate
The number of new single family homes constructed in Lawton in 2015 was at a record low (with records
back to 1996) and was down 83.1 percent from the housing boom peak in 2005. In prior years, new home
construction in the Lawton area was driven primarily by the Department of Defense’s 2005 Base Realignment
and Closure (BRAC) process, which significantly expanded the size of Fort Sill by relocating units from Fort
Bliss. The influx of military and civilian personnel and their families increased the demand for housing,
NEW HOME PERMITS
SINGLE FAMILY UNITS
LAWTON
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
122
124
138
260
215
208
149
222
195
159
139
74
46
44
Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
COMANCHE
COUNTY
146
149
166
315
308
293
230
347
298
256
261
159
92
89
MULTIFAMILY UNITS
LAWTON
10
5
0
320
248
576
20
290
18
20
12
0
16
0
COMANCHE
COUNTY
24
13
0
320
274
583
24
294
28
24
26
10
22
4
29
30
LAWTON
/
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
insulating the area from the housing market crash that affected most of the rest of the nation beginning in
2007. The BRAC relocations have since been completed and the surge in new construction has waned, leading
to considerable declines from 2010 through 2015.
As of the end of December 2015, there was an inventory of just under 1,000 single family homes for sale
in the Lawton area listed on the Oklahoma Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—approximately a nine-month
supply. In 2015, the number of homes sold in the Lawton area was down by nearly 7 percent despite low
prices and affordability. In 2014, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey, only
26 percent of homeowners paid 30 percent or more of their income toward housing (compared to 30.8
percent of homeowners nationwide). According to the Cost of Living Index published by Council for
Community and Economic Research (C2ER), housing costs in Lawton, which include home prices, mortgage
rates, and rental rates, were a full 10 percent below the national average in 2015.
HOME SALES (LAWTON AREA)
YEAR
SALES
CHANGE
IN SALES
(%)
2011
1,414
——
MEDIAN MEDIAN PRICE AVERAGE
PRICE
CHANGE
SOLD/ASKED
($)
(%)
RATIO (%)
122,250
——
96.6
AVERAGE
DAYS ON
MARKET
86
2012
1,405
-0.6
122,100
-0.1
96.2
96
2013
1,288
-8.3
115,000
-5.8
95.9
94
2014
1,395
8.3
106,000
-7.8
96.5
92
2015
1,300
-6.8
101,750
-4.0
96.2
85
Note: Includes only those homes listed on the Oklahoma Multiple Listing Service. Source: Oklahoma
Association of Realtors and UsEconomicResearch.com.
LAWTON HOUSING STATISTICS
Total Housing Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40,706
Occupied Housing Units (%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79.4
Owner-occupied (%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49.1
Renter-occupied (%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50.9
Homeowner Vacancy Rate (%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4.5
Rental Vacancy Rate (%) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15.8
Median Monthly Owner Cost (with mortgage) ($) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,084
Homeowners paying 30% or more of income for housing (%) . . .26.0
Median Monthly Gross Rent ($) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .803
Renters paying 30% or more of income for housing (%) . . . . . . . .40.8
Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2014 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates).
/
2016 • LAWTON
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
In considering housing affordability in Lawton, it is important to take into account the large number of
active duty military personnel and veterans residing in the area. As of the 2014 American Community Survey,
more than 19 percent of Lawton’s population ages 18 and older are civilian veterans of the military (nearly
two-and-a-half times the national level). As of 2015, approximately 7,624 active duty military personnel were
assigned to the fort. This is important to housing market analysis since most active duty military personnel
and veterans finance their homes using Veterans Administration (VA) guaranteed loans. VA loans continue
to offer zero-down financing, even as loan paperwork and credit requirements have increased significantly in
recent years and debt-to-income ratios have become more restrictive. The large number of VA eligible buyers
creates an affordability bonus since a major obstacle for many buyers (especially first-time buyers) is the
down payment.
Number of Units
LAWTON RENTAL UNITS
6,000
5,000
4,000
3,000
2,000
1,000
0
208
258
Less
than
$200
$200
to
$299
1,324
4,819
4,176
$300
$500
$750
to
to
to
$499
$749
$999
Gross Monthly Rent*
3,670
971
$1,000
to
$1,499
$1,500
or
More
Note: Includes occupied rental units only. *Gross rent includes contract rent plus
utilities. Source: U.S. Census Bureau (2014 American Community Survey) and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
COMMERCIAL BUILDING PERMITS
(CITY OF LAWTON)
YEAR
NUMBER OF
PERMITS
TOTAL
VALUATION
2007 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96,918,400
2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61,030,801
2009 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91,716,560
2010 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22,544,084
2011 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63,681,287
2012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55,508,505
2013 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 384 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68,655,148
2014 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44,665,653
2015 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 346 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46,417,362
Note: Valuation reflects value shown on building permit and does not include
value of land. Includes new construction, additions, and remodeling.
Source: City of Lawton
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Banking & Financial Services
Lawton is served by nine banks:
•
City National Bank and Trust (www.CNB1901.com)
•
BancFirst (www.BancFirst.com)
•
Liberty National Bank (www.LNBOK.com)
•
Arvest Bank (www.Arvest.com)
•
International Bank of Commerce (www.IBC.com)
•
First National Bank and Trust (www.FNBOkla.com)
•
Bank of America (www.BankOfAmerica.com)
•
Fort Sill National Bank (www.FSNB.com)
•
Peoples State Bank (www.PSBOkOnline.com)
The area is also served by six credit unions:
•
Southwest Oklahoma Federal Credit Union (www.SWOFCU.com)
•
Fort Sill Federal Credit Union (www.FSFCU.com)
•
Comanche County Federal Credit Union (www.ComancheCountyFCU.com)
•
Red River Federal Credit Union (www.RedRiverFCU.com)
•
Navy Federal Credit Union (www.NavyFederal.org)
•
Communication Federal Credit Union (www.ComFedCU.org)
2016 • LAWTON
/
LAWTON BANK DEPOSITS,
MARKET SHARE (2015)
Arvest Bank
18.6%
BancFirst
19.6%
International Bank
of Commerce
15.0%
City National
Bank and Trust
22.6%
Liberty National
Bank
15.6%
First National Bank
and Trust 4.0%
Bank of America 4.4%
Peoples State
Bank 0.4%
Fort Sill National Bank 1.7%
Note: Data reflect total deposits in the 12 months ended June 30. Source:
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and UsEconomicResearch.com.
BANK DEPOSITS
LAWTON
YEAR
COMANCHE COUNTY
AMOUNT
CHANGE
AMOUNT
CHANGE
$1,000
(%)
$1,000
(%)
2011
969,482
3.2
1,305,838
5.5
2012
1,022,646
5.5
1,387,431
6.2
2013
1,020,004
-0.3
1,334,930
-3.8
2014
1,032,932
1.3
1,359,915
1.9
2015
1,086,500
5.2
1,419,361
4.4
Note: Data reflect total deposits in the 12 months ended June 30
each year. Source: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and
UsEconomicResearch.com.
BANKRUPTCY FILINGS
(PER 1,000 RESIDENTS)
YEAR
COMANCHE
COUNTY
OKLAHOMA
UNITED
STATES
2011
2.97
3.46
4.53
2012
2.70
3.14
3.89
2013
2.82
2.76
3.39
2014
2.64
2.57
2.94
2015
2.66
2.32
2.63
Source: US Bankruptcy Court, US Bankruptcy Court (Western District
of Oklahoma), U.S. Census Bureau, and UsEconomicResearch.com.
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
Fort Sill
Fort Sill is an active U.S. Army installation
located in Lawton and is part of city limits as the
result of annexation in 1998. The fort was established in 1869 for stationing cavalry troops during the Indian Wars and is the oldest military
installation in Oklahoma. Today, Fort Sill hosts
the U.S. Army FIRES Center of Excellence,
which integrates field artillery, air defense
artillery, and electronic warfare. Fort Sill's missions include providing basic combat training to
new army recruits; advanced initial entry training/military occupational specialty training to
soldiers of the U.S. Army’s field artillery and air
defense artillery branches; training to U.S.
Marine officer and enlisted field artillerymen;
basic and advanced commissioned, noncommissioned, and warrant officer training; and
support to Army and Department of Defense
operations at the army, joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational levels. The fort
comprises 93,829 acres, which include 47,170
acres of training area, 9,318 acres of main post,
1,811 acres of on-post housing facilities, and
1,068 acres of recreation area. Fort Sill is the
largest employer in Comanche County and one
of the largest in Southwest Oklahoma. In 2015,
the fort had $982 million in military and civilian
pay, contracts, and associated spending; $36 million in construction; $35 million in retail spending; $70 million in TRICARE (health insurance)
spending; $1 million in legal claims; and $590
million in other spending (for total spending of
$1.71 billion).
For more information on Fort Sill, visit
SILL-WWW.ARMY.MIL.
FORT SILL POPULATION (2015)
Military (Permanent Party) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7,624
National Guard/Reserve Military . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .852
Military (Basic Training) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19,500
Military (Students All Other) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14,942
DA Civilians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,527
Contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,485
Other Civilians (NAF, Commercial, AAFES, etc.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,892
Retired Military/Survivor Dependents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28,473
Family Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25,290
Total . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102,585
Source: FIRES Center of Excellence and Fort Sill.
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Agriculture
Agriculture, particularly livestock ranching, is a significant part of the
Comanche County economy with $47.4 million in sales in 2012. Livestock represent
about 65 percent of all agricultural sales (with crops accounting for the remainder).
Top livestock are cattle and calves, quail, layers, horses and ponies, and goats. Top
crops are wheat for grain, forage land, and cotton. From 2007 to 2012, Comanche
County saw 11 percent growth in the number of farms 500 acres and larger, while
the number of farms smaller than 500 acres contracted in all size classes (from small
farms of fewer than 10 acres to larger farms of several hundred up to 500 acres). The
largest declines in numbers of farms were in the smallest of farms (those of fewer
than 10 acres and fewer than 50 acres). The emergence of larger farms in Comanche
County gave rise to 22 percent growth in the value of agricultural products sold over
five years (led by a near doubling of crop sales). Although the number of farm
workers in Comanche County fell by 10 percent from 2007 to 2012, farm worker
total payroll increased by 20 percent.
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LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
COMANCHE COUNTY AGRICULTURE
2012
2007
CHANGE
CHANGE (%)
Farms
Number
1,107
1,126
-19
-1.7
462,992
497,502
-34,510
-6.9
418
442
-24
-5.4
Average per farm (dollars)
577,613
506,837
70,776
14.0
Average per acre (dollars)
1,381
1,147
234
20.4
62,284
52,948
9,336
17.6
Land (acres)
Average farm size (acres)
Estimated market value of land and buildings
Estimated market value of all machinery and equipment
Average per farm (dollars)
Farms by size
1 to 9 acres
49
54
-5
-9.3
10 to 49 acres
201
222
-21
-9.5
50 to 179 acres
369
377
-8
-2.1
180 to 499 acres
226
237
-11
-4.6
500 to 999 acres
130
117
13
11.1
1,000 acres or more
132
119
13
10.9
Total cropland
Farms
625
798
-173
-21.7
Acres
137,092
160,736
-23,644
-14.7
Farms
19
24
-5
-20.8
Acres
715
1,449
-734
-50.7
Total ($1,000)
47,373
38,829
8,544
22.0
Average per farm (dollars)
42,794
34,484
8,310
24.1
Crops ($1,000)
17,002
8,795
8,207
93.3
Livestock, poultry, and their products ($1,000)
30,372
30,034
338
1.1
398
463
-65
-14.0
19.1
Irrigated land
Market value of agricultural products sold
Farms by value of sales
Less than $2,500
$2,500 to $4,999
106
89
17
$5,000 to $9,999
157
161
-4
-2.5
$10,000 to $24,999
165
186
-21
-11.3
$25,000 to $49,999
105
97
8
8.2
$50,000 to $99,999
71
62
9
14.5
$100,000 or more
105
68
37
54.4
482
536
-54
-10.1
2,346
1,948
398
20.4
Hired farm labor
Workers
Payroll ($1,000)
Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture and UsEconomicResearch.com.
2016 • LAWTON
/
FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Tourism
A Message from Lawton Fort Sill Convention and Visitors Bureau
Jacob Russell
Historic Lawton Fort Sill has played an important role in shaping our
great state for more than 100 years. Nestled in the oldest of
mountains, Lawton Fort Sill is rich with relics and tales from a time
long gone. It is where you can explore Native American history,
pioneers, wildlife habitat, and military heroes. Our meaningful past
and unique present will make your visit unforgettable. You will find
inspirational beauty, historic importance, natural splendor, and great
fun for all ages. We know you will find your Passport to Adventure
here!
Director of Tourism
Tourism is the third largest industry in Oklahoma and is a significant
component of our local economy. The local hotel/motel collections
assist with tourism growth and opportunity. Our focus is on recruiting conventions
and meetings on a state and national level, agriculture shows, bus tours, and
sporting events; attending travel shows; partnering with the state travel and
recreation department; and continuing to market Lawton Fort Sill as a premier
destination in Southwest Oklahoma and the Midwest.
Lawton-Fort Sill Convention
and Visitors Bureau
Lawton Fort Sill remains a national tourism destination each year due to our local
attractions, with one of the largest being Fort Sill. By participating at Fort Sill Family
Days every week we are able to pass out maps and other tourism materials focused
on shopping, dining, recreation, and lodging. This allows the solider and family a
way to enjoy and explore our community. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
draws more than a million visitors each year. These visits along with others are a
direct impact in the annual tourism dollars generated. We promote Lawton Fort Sill
as your Passport to Adventure!
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LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW • 2016
We produce more than 80,000 publications pieces a year. Our publications are the
Business Directory, City Life, Conference & Event Guide, Discovery Trail, Tourism
Guide, and local maps. We distributed over 80,000 pieces of tourism literature in
2015. These materials are disbursed for Family Days, relocation packets, tourism
packets, convention packets, membership services, hoteliers, state visitor centers,
state fulfillment program, travel shows, and walk-in requests.
In 2016, tourism in Lawton Fort Sill took a step further with the launching of the
Convention and Visitors Bureau. The expansion of the Chamber tourism program
into a Convention and Visitors Bureau was a long term goal, one we are proud to say
we accomplished. Our mission is to recruit and book state and national conferences
and meetings at the Lawton Fort Sill Convention Center, with an emphasis on
multiyear bookings. With oversight from a 13-person advisory council comprised of
hoteliers and tourism partners, the CVB has a cooperative sales strategy in place to
ensure Lawton remains a viable option for meeting and convention space.
–Jacob Russell, Director of Tourism
Economic Impact
Tourism is a significant component of the economy of Lawton and Comanche County. As an exportoriented industry it brings dollars to the local area from other regions generating sales, jobs, earnings, and tax
revenue. According to a study by Dean Runyon Associates for the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation
Department, the direct economic impact of travel in Comanche County was $195.1 million in 2014 (up 5.4
percent from 2013). Travel expenditures in Comanche County generated $45.1 million in earnings
supporting 2,530 jobs. Travel-related spending also produced $7.4 million in county and municipal tax
revenue. The average travel party spent $157 per night during overnight trips to Comanche County.
COMANCHE COUNTY TRAVEL IMPACTS AND VISITOR VOLUME
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
DIRECT ECONOMIC IMPACTS
Total Direct Spending (million)
$196.3
$200.9
$183.4
$185.1
$195.1
Visitor Spending
$160.4
$160.4
$144.5
$147.7
$159.3
Overnight
$119.6
$118.8
$105.5
$107.7
$117.1
$40.8
$41.5
$39.0
$40.0
$42.2
Day
Total Direct Earnings (million)
$46.0
$44.9
$41.1
$42.2
$45.1
Total Direct Employment
2,680
2,520
2,300
2,330
2,530
Government Revenue (million)
$16.4
$15.9
$14.4
$14.7
$15.9
Local Revenue
$7.6
$7.3
$6.6
$6.7
$7.4
State Revenue
$8.8
$8.6
$7.8
$8.0
$8.5
OVERNIGHT VISITOR VOLUME (THOUSAND)
Party Trips
327.6
318.2
290.8
292.5
308.0
Party Nights
783.5
764.6
705.8
711.2
745.4
795.5
771.6
705.7
708.2
747.1
Person Trips
Person Nights
1,878.1 1,829.8 1,692.7 1,700.2 1,786.6
AVERAGE OVERNIGHT SPENDING
per Party Trip
$365
$373
$363
$368
$380
per Party Night
$153
$155
$149
$151
$157
per Person Trips
$150
$154
$149
$152
$157
per Person Night
$64
$65
$62
$63
$66
Source: Dean Runyon Associates and Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department.
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Attractions and Activities
Lawton-Fort Sill and the Comanche County area are home to art galleries, nationally recognized historic
museums, several casinos, an IMAX cinema, a mall, multiple shopping districts including downtown boutiques, numerous restaurants and bars, more than 80 parks, splash pads, performing arts theatres, and several sports and recreation opportunities. Key attractions include:
WICHITA MOUNTAINS WILDLIFE REFUGE AND THE HOLY CITY
The country's first natural wildlife refuge, the 59,000 acres of natural grasslands provide habitat for
bison, elk, deer, and longhorn cattle, plus more than 50 mammals, 240 bird species, 64 reptiles and amphibians, 36 fish species, and 806 plant species. Numerous sites within the refuge are popular attractions including the scenic drive to the Mt. Scott summit (which rises 2,500 feet above the plains), a state-of-the-art visitor and education center, a prairie dog village, the Holy City of the Wichitas (site of the nation’s longest running outdoor Easter passion play depicting the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ), and numerous
lakes, campsites, and trails. The Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge has been named the most beautiful place to visit in Oklahoma by TravelOK.com, and in 2015 was named the number one Wildlife Refuge in
the United States by USA Today Travel.
For more information, visit www.FWS.gov/Refuge/Wichita_Mountains.
MUSEUM OF THE GREAT PLAINS
The museum reopened in 2015 after a $4 million renovation, which added a number of new hands-on
features including a prehistoric archaeological dig site, a Terrible Tuesday Tornado Theater, Howard Council’s
iconic Saddle Shop, and more. The mission of the museum is to spotlight the cultural and natural history of
the Great Plains. The Red River Trading Post is a replica of trading posts in the region from the 1830s and
1840s and features a fortified log stockade and two-story trader's cabin. The Red River Trading Post hosts a
Spring Encampment in May and Fall Encampment in November.
For more information, visit www.DiscoverMGP.org.
HISTORIC MATTIE BEAL HOME
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Mattie Beal Home is a 14-room Greek Revival style
mansion constructed in 1909. In the land lottery of 1901, in which the federal government opened Southwest
Oklahoma for settlement, the second name drawn was Mattie Beal, who chose her 160-acre allotment south
of the Lawton town site. The Mattie Beal Home hosts group tours, weddings, luncheons, and receptions.
For more information, visit www.LawtonHeritage.org.
COMANCHE NATIONAL MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTER
The museum offers detailed history of the Comanche people, traditional cultural objects, and national
traveling American Indian exhibits from metropolitan museums across the United States.
For more information, visit www.ComancheMuseum.com.
FORT SILL NATIONAL HISTORIC LANDMARK MUSEUM
Fort Sill National Historic Landmark Museum is an historic frontier army post museum with programs
throughout the year. Exhibit facilities open to the public include the Interpretive Center, a cavalry barracks
furnished to 1875, an 1872 guardhouse, and the Warrior's Journey Native American gallery.
For more information, visit Sill-www.Army.mil/Museum.
U.S. ARMY FIELD ARTILLERY MUSEUM
The U.S. Army Field Artillery Museum tells the story of artillery from 1775 to present with more than 70
guns and artillery pieces and numerous other artifacts from head gear and ammo to small arms and uniforms.
For more information, visit Sill-www.Army.mil/FAmuseum.
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Sporting Events
Lawton is a sports destination with historical appeal, uniting sports facilities with natural and historical
attractions. A focus of the Lawton Fort Sill CVB has been promoting Lawton for its cost-effectiveness and
charm of a small town (but with major metropolitan amenities) welcoming sports events of all sizes and
budgets.
GREAT PLAINS COLISEUM AND EXPO CENTER
The Coliseum is a multipurpose arena featuring an arena floor of 12,000 square feet with excellent sight
lines. The Coliseum seats 2,400 patrons in chair back seating. Depending on the type of event, the floor area
can accommodate up to 1,000 patrons in portable chairs. Additional display space is located under the grandstands with room for more than 120 ten-by-ten-foot booths. Two break rooms are available for meetings
along with a show office with telephone service, restroom, and shower facilities. A banquet kitchen is attached
to the building.
The Expo Building is located adjacent the Coliseum and has more than 80,000 square feet of space. The
Expo Building hosts livestock shows and sales, auctions, car and truck shows, open air concerts, and festivals.
The Expo Building has stall space for 700 head of cattle and 500 head of lambs and hogs, as well as 200 horse
stalls. There are more than 200 feet of wash racks inside the building with eight acres of tie-out space available. The open air building is also available for parties and family reunions.
For more information, visit www.GPColiseum.com
LAWTON CONFERENCE SPACE
VENUE
AVAILABLE SPACE (SQ. FT.)
CAMERON UNIVERSITY
17,314
McMahon Centennial Complex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7,340
Shepler Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,765
CETES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6,209
CITY OF LAWTON
7,106
Conference Rooms (3 rooms x 264 sq. ft.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .792
Auditorium Lobby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,030
Banquet Facility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,284
GREAT PLAINS COLISEUM
111,275
Coliseum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,000
Crystal Creek Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,400
Banquet Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3,000
Meeting Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .975
Coliseum Annex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,900
Expo Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81,000
LAWTON FORT SILL CONVENTION CENTER/HILTON GARDEN INN 14,443
Great Plains Ballroom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9,360
Board Room A & B . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288
Bison Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,160
Elk Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,440
Lawton Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .475
Bison & Elk Salons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .720
TOTAL
150,138
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Agritourism
Situated in a region driven by agriculture, Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce has promoted the
area as a prime location for agritourism—one of the largest areas of growth in the tourism industry.
Numerous agritourism events take place in Lawton annually. A signature event is the Wichita Mountains
Classic—a livestock show that showcases the most promising youth in agriculture who participate in the
Heifer show. Presented by the Agricultural Promotions Committee of Lawton Fort Sill Convention and
Visitors Bureau, this show is the result of decades of rich tradition in agriculture, animal husbandry, and generous payouts. Other events which draw out-of-town guests are the annual Buffalo Auction and Longhorn
Auction (held each year at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge), Lawton Rangers Rodeo, and the Grand
National Horseman Association's National Playday Finals. A new venue is the local Farmers Market held at
Great Plains Fairgrounds.
The Film Industry
The Oklahoma Film & Music Office administers three incentive programs to recruit film and music projects and encourage development of infrastructure: a 37-percent rebate program on qualifying expenditures,
a construction tax credit, and a sales tax exemption. At the local level, City of Lawton can assist motion picture and television production through resolutions and the city manager may temporarily suspend certain
city code requirements including closing streets; making streets available only to one-way traffic; providing
for no-parking zones; waiver of certain application procedures such as parade and assembly permits; authorizing temporary food-service establishments and food handlers licenses; waiver of the noise restrictions on
loudness and time; and a waiver for light pollution of neighborhoods. In addition, the city manager may
waive certain application, inspection, and licensing fees. The city manager may authorize the chief of police
and fire chief to provide assistance with aspects of production. For more information on statewide incentives,
visit www.OK.gov/OklahomaFilm.
For more information on local incentives, visit www.Cityof.Lawton.OK.US/LAHC.
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Renewable Energy
Local Renewable Energy Opportunities
Public Service Company of Oklahoma, a unit of American Electric Power that provides electrical service
to the Lawton area, obtains power from wind farms in Minco, Oklahoma, and makes it available for purchase
for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. This voluntary renewable energy program allows
residential and business customers to purchase all or part of their electricity from wind in blocks of 100
kilowatt-hours or as a percent of average energy usage up to 100 percent.
For more information, visit www.PSOklahoma.com.
State and Federal Renewable Energy Incentives
State of Oklahoma offers several renewable and efficient energy incentives including:
•
Energy Efficient Residential Construction Tax Credit (Corporate)
•
Zero-Emission Facilities Production Tax Credit
•
Energy Efficient Residential Construction Tax Credit (Personal)
•
Property Tax Exemption for Wind Generators
At the federal level, several corporate and personal tax exemptions and credits are available, along with
grant and loan programs.
For more information, visit www.DSIREUSA.org.
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Community Resources
CITY OF LAWTON
www.CityOf.Lawton.Ok.US
LAWTON-FORT SILL CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE
www.LawtonFortSillChamber.com
LAWTON-FORT SILL ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
www.LawtonEDC.com
CAMERON UNIVERSITY
www.Cameron.edu
GREAT PLAINS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CENTER
www.EDC.GreatPlains.edu
CENTER FOR EMERGING TECHNOLOGY &
ENTREPRENEURIAL STUDIES
www.CETES.org
OKLAHOMA EMPLOYMENT SECURITY
COMMISSION/LAWTON WORKFORCE
CENTER
www.OK.gov/OESC_web
COMANCHE COUNTY
www.ComancheCounty.us
ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH CENTRAL
OKLAHOMA GOVERNMENTS
www.ASCOG.org
AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER CO, INC.
www.AEP.com
AT&T
www.ATT.com
FIDELITY COMMUNICATIONS CO.
www.FidelityCommunications.com
CENTERPOINT ENERGY OKLAHOMA GAS
www.CenterPointEnergy.com
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About Lawton-Fort Sill
Economic Development Corporation
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation (LED) promotes the Lawton-Fort Sill
community, businesses, workforce training, academic institutions, and lifestyle strengths worldwide to attract
the world’s finest companies, entrepreneurs, and professional talent. Ultimately, LED’s goals are to strengthen
regional employment, build a base of high-value industries, and significantly improve the economic future
for all who live and work in the region.
LED is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit corporation supported and led by local business and community
leaders, city government, and top academic institutions. LED collaborates closely with other entities
throughout the Southwest Oklahoma/Lawton region and the state to ensure a globally competitive,
sustainable regional economy through quality job creation. LED continuously partners with Oklahoma
Department of Commerce in pursuit of job development.
Mission
The LED mission is to drive and ensure economic growth by recruiting and creating high-quality jobs in
the Lawton area. This includes attracting new capital investment and retaining and expanding existing
businesses and industries with a focus on high-technology industries.
Services
LED promotes and supports the greater Lawton region as a world-class center of commerce and trade
for Oklahoma. LED provides a wide array of information and free confidential services to assist industries
and businesses to locate or expand operations in the Lawton region. Services include:
•
Economic development project management—from start to finish
•
Marketing the Greater Lawton Region to attract prospective employers, funding, and investors to the
region from the public and private sectors
•
Custom demographic research and economic impact analysis
2016 • LAWTON
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FORT SILL ECONOMIC REVIEW
Building and site location inventory
Real estate analysis and market research including site selection for builders and developers and a
unique database of available inventory
Facilitate in design, application, and implementation of state and local incentives
Direct access to financial services
Coordinate design and implantation of customized business and industry training
Local government-relation services to new industries
Industrial Development Agency liaison
Community Economic Development Planning
Board of Directors
Mr. Philip D. Kennedy, President/CEO, Comanche Lumber Company, Inc.
Mr. Ron Nance, President/CEO, Ron Nance Enterprise
Mr. Paul Ellwanger, Executive Vice President, City National Bank
Mrs. Debra Welch, President/CEO, Lawton Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Jerry Ihler, City Manager, City of Lawton
Mr. Arthur Patrick, General Manager, Lawton Communications
Mr. Clarence Fortney, Deputy Superintendent, Great Plains Technology Center
Mayor Fred Fitch, Mayor of the City of Lawton
Mr. Jacob Brox, Residential Estimator, Brox Industries, LLC
Dr. John McArthur, President, Cameron University
Dr. Tom Thomas, Superintendent, Great Plains Technology Center
Mr. Nathan Slate, Site Manager, Northrop Grumman
Mr. Joe E. Gallagher, SES, Deputy to the Commanding General, Fires Center of Excellence
Mr. Mark Brace, President, BancFirst
Investment Partners
PLATINUM PARTNERS
SILVER PARTNERS
AEP/PSO
City National Bank
Arvest Bank
Southwestern Medical Center
Mullins Nissan
The Oaks Development
Comanche Home Center
GOLD PARTNERS
First National Bank
AT&T
Goodyear
Cameron University Foundation
Mayor Fred Fitch
Great Plains Technology Center
CenterPoint Energy
BRONZE PARTNERS
Comanche Memorial Hospital
Home Builders Association of Southwest Oklahoma
BancFirst
Billingsley Ford of Lawton Oklahoma
Brad Burgess
Liberty National Bank
Northrop Grumman
Dr. John McArthur
Brent Copeland
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President & CEO
MR. BARRY ALBRECHT
Project Consultant to this Publication
DR. ROBERT CARREIRA
UsEconomicResearch.com
CONTACT LED
Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation
302 W Gore Blvd
Lawton, OK 73501
(580) 355-3541
www.LawtonEDC.com