Revamped shopping center attracting new businesses

The renovated Pioneer Shopping Center at North 14th Street and Hazel, just south of Highland Avenue, is attracting new businesses.

Several new tenants have moved into the revamped spaces and others are expected to join them soon.

For several years, occupancy in the longtime shopping center had declined from its heydays in earlier years. It once housed a grocery store, drug store, barber shop and a TG&Y, a children's clothing store and several other businesses over the years.

A major recent tenant, Locke Supply Company, moved to its own building in recent years, leaving behind a large empty space.

The renovation created new spaces for an assortment of new occupants, and included a total revamp of the center's facade in a modern style. New tenants include a dentist's practice and an eyeglass vendor. A hair salon and "Marry Me," a bridal shop, remain but in updated spaces.

The renovation covered a Ponca City landmark, the semi-circular roof on the south wing. That once was the location of TG&Y before it moved to the Ponca Plaza, and later became several other discount stores.

Russ Didlake is serving as the leasing agent for the shopping center.