Downtown development director named for Broken Arrow's 'Rose District'

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. - Broken Arrow's downtown now has a new member to the team tasked with helming the economic growth of the newly christened Rose District.

The Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Corporation on Wednesday announced the hiring of Lisa Frein as director of downtown development.

According to chamber officials, in the position she is charged with creating an identity and sense of place for the Rose District that will ultimately help current businesses grow and thrive while attracting additional retail, living and hospitality developments.

BAEDC President and Chief Executive Officer Wes Smithwick said bringing Frein on board further highlights the BAEDC's commitment to the growth and success of current and future business in downtown Broken Arrow.

“Her knowledge and expertise in helping businesses grow and thrive through the attraction and retention of customers will help carry out our economic development team’s plan for attracting new business to the Rose District,” said Smithwick.

In their press release announcing the hiring, chamber officials said Frein will work collaboratively with Warren Unsicker, vice president of economic development, during the next 90 days to create a Rose District brand and to “unify the district as well as attract and create additional events for downtown Broken Arrow.”

The Broken Arrow city council last week approved naming the Main Street corridor “the Rose District” and accepted a streetscape plan to make the Rose District more pedestrian and community event friendly.