First National Center to close its doors Aug. 1

The final four tenants at First National Center are moving out this week as the historic, 1 million square foot complex is set to close Aug. 1

Jim Parrack, the court-appointed receiver for the property, said Monday the closing will save money on operations and also allow preparations for redevelopment by the pending buyers, Gary Brooks and Charlie Nicholas.

Parrack and Brooks both said the purchase is still on track. The proposed development includes conversion of the Art Deco landmark into housing, a hotel and retail.

Two tenants are moving to new locations downtown; Cafe 7 will be reopening at 100 W Main at Century Center, while the Tinderbox will be reopening in the Main Street frontage now occupied by Sweets and Eats in the Oil & Gas Building at 110 N Robinson Ave.

Nancy Farha Clothing, meanwhile, is moving to Casady Square in northwest Oklahoma City, and owners of the Golden Dragon restaurant have yet to find a new location to reopen.

The closing also will create a gap in The Underground pedestrian tunnels and skywalks that connect the property at Broadway and Robinson.

Brooks said a purchase closing is expected by October. Renovations will last at least two years.