→Devon Energy is set to start site work this summer for its new downtown corporate headquarters. Chief Executive Officer Larry Nichols is more adamant about the project moving forward, on schedule, with each whisper that the 54-story tower will either be delayed or scaled down. The prospect of a $750 million construction project could significantly offset the pain felt downtown from the deepening national recession.

→SandRidge has urban planners continuing to evaluate how best to address older buildings surrounding its new corporate headquarters at the old Kerr-McGee Tower. Will the company seek to tear down some of the buildings? Will the company do nothing in light of the troubled economy?

→Expect an announcement soon of a new president at Downtown Oklahoma City Inc. My sources tell me the person comes with fresh ideas and significant exposure to development in other downtowns.

→For better or for worse, Jim Brewer’s passing leaves Bricktown without his forceful voice and personality. Brewer was a powerful force who did much to make the area the thriving entertainment district it is today. He was also seen as a drag on development in his later years. How will his sons oversee the family’s vast empire? And sticking with Bricktown, what will happen to Gary Cotton after his unsuccessful effort to sell off his vast holdings at an auction last month?

→Bob Howard and Mickey Clagg are moving ahead with the development started by Greg Banta in MidTown. Will the market stay strong enough to support their addition of badly needed housing to the area?