Downtown Edmond’s first Transformation Manager

In an ambitious move to shape the future of its central district, the City of Edmond recently welcomed Leana Dozier as its first Downtown Transformation Manager. This strategic role marks a significant commitment from the City of Edmond to enhance and evolve its downtown area through focused development projects and partnerships.

Why Dozier?

Dozier, whose expertise spans over a decade in economic development, policy, and planning, brings a wealth of experience from her tenure with The Alliance for Economic Development in Oklahoma City and the City of Oklahoma City. Her role is envisioned to bridge public and private sectors, driving forward projects that promise to invigorate Edmond’s already vibrant downtown.

Jumpstarting growth

Dozier’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm by local business leaders and city officials alike, who see her as a pivotal figure in realizing the downtown’s potential for growth and innovation. 

“We are excited that the City has made this commitment to downtown with this new position,” said Michelle Schaefer, Treasurer for the Downtown Edmond Business Association. “It gives businesses downtown a dedicated, single point of contact for questions and concerns. They will be an advocate who understands Downtown Edmond and a resource for us to turn to as we continue to grow.”

About the job

As Dozier steps into her role, she will focus on crafting strategic development objectives, fostering partnerships, and overseeing projects aligning with the broader vision for downtown Edmond. Her track record of managing urban renewal initiatives and facilitating government assistance programs positions her as an adept leader for this transformative endeavor.

Dozier herself is excited for the changes to come with her new position. “Bringing public and private entities together to foster partnerships that will bring vital projects to fruition is essential as Edmond’s already thriving downtown continues to grow and evolve,” Dozier said. “I am excited to be a part of everything that is happening both in downtown and across Edmond and look forward to working with all our partners as we move forward.”

As for what the role will look like day-to-day, she will be responsible for improving the downtown area through strategic programs and partnerships and for creating overall development objectives, action plans, and other developmental activities.