City Council to consider Tourism Partnership for Lindsey Street Water Tower

The Norman City Council will consider an agreement through Item 11 its July 28 meeting that would establish a long-term tourism and branding partnership for the Lindsey Street water tower as part of Dr Pepper's nationally recognized Fansville campaign.

If approved, the project would be the first Fansville initiative of its kind, said Parks & Recreation Director Jason Olsen, transforming a municipal water tower into a Fansville landmark. Since its debut in 2018, Fansville has become one of Dr Pepper's signature advertising campaigns, bringing to life a fictional town that revolves around college football. The campaign has become a staple of college football season through television commercials, digital content, social media and live fan engagement.

Under the proposed 10-year agreement, Dr Pepper would pay the Norman Utilities Authority a total of $500,000 in exchange for placement of the artwork. The funds would help offset the costs associated with repainting the tower and preserving the iconic structure, while also creating a one-of-a-kind attraction that celebrates Norman's connection to college football culture.

The agreement also allows for a kickoff event and up to five annual events hosted by Dr Pepper during the partnership term. The City would continue to own, maintain and operate the water tower and surrounding site, while any future updates to the artwork would be completed at Dr Pepper's expense.

"If there was ever a city that made sense for Fansville, it's Norman," said Dan Schemm, executive director of Visit Norman. "College football is a big part of our identity, and bringing a piece of Fansville to life here feels like a natural fit. Great destinations are built on experiences people remember, and this is one of those projects that will give fans and residents something truly unique to rally around. We can't wait to welcome people to Norman to experience it for themselves."

The proposed partnership represents an opportunity to preserve a key piece of Norman's infrastructure - a sought after goal of the Norman City Council - while creating a distinctive visual landmark that supports community branding, tourism and economic activity.

"We hope that this ends up being one another incredible stop on your game day visit to Norman," Olsen said. "We see this being a special placemaking area for friends, family and fans, and we're just really excited for the partnership with Dr Pepper."

Landscaping will be carried out to complement the water tower makeover. The project is expected to be completed in mid-October, by the first OU home football game. The tower is located on East Lindsey Street, between George Avenue and Classen Boulevard.

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