LAWTON, Okla. — The Lawton-Fort Sill Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) delivered its Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report to the City Council on September 9, and the scale of what’s at stake is unprecedented. With more than $30 billion in capital investment and nearly 16,000 jobs tied to projects now in the pipeline, LEDC leaders say Lawton is moving into an era of growth that few would have thought possible even a decade ago.
A City in the Room
LEDC President Brad Cooksey opened his presentation with humor, recalling his Eisenhower High School fight song, but quickly shifted to gratitude:
“This wouldn’t be possible without you guys and your support…a lot is being heard around the state, around the region, and around the nation, and it’s because of the support you give in economic development.”
Cooksey reminded council members that economic development isn’t abstract: it’s land acquisition, site prep, and the financial backing they’ve authorized. “You put the money behind with your actions on this, so we greatly appreciate it,” he said.
From Leads to Site Visits
The numbers tell a story of momentum:
- 50 projects worked in FY25 (July 2024–June 2025).
- 41 in manufacturing, cementing Lawton’s industrial strength.
- 15,887 possible jobs across all projects.
- $30+ billion in investment tied to those deals.
Over the past five years, LEDC has surpassed nearly every performance target: 266 business leads (goal: 120), 675 prospects (goal: 500), and 706 site locator contacts (goal: 375).
But Cooksey stressed that the real turning point isn’t just leads—it’s site visits.
“Last year we had nine site visits…once they get here, that means they’re serious about coming to Lawton.”
That shift from paper interest to boots on the ground is where deals begin to stick.
Projects Defining the Future
Cooksey highlighted six projects that illustrate the breadth of Lawton’s opportunities:
Fisher59
A $16 million warehouse expansion at the airport industrial park, supporting more than 60 employees.
“That’s the big brewery distribution facility that’s going up. Looks good, and they’re rolling along.”
Website: fisher59.com
Firehawk Aerospace (Project Goose)
A rocket motor manufacturer, bringing $33 million in investment and 75–300 jobs. Supported by $22 million in state incentives.
“That’s the big project we landed…we’re going to get $22 million from the state. This is ready to go.”
Website: firehawkaerospace.com
Westwin Elements (Project Coco)
A strategic metals company planning an $800 million facility with 200 jobs. Their footprint has doubled from 350 acres to 750.
“They are expressing interest in Lawton because of the Firehawk project. They want to be near Firehawk.”
Website: westwinelements.com
Project Pony (Elevate)
Backed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and requiring 220 MW of power through PSO, this project represents a $400 million investment with 45 jobs.
“It’s only 45 jobs, but look at the capital investment. These are complicated projects, but we’re helping meet those needs.”
Websites: okcommerce.gov, psoklahoma.com
Republic Paperboard
Expanding through multi-phase development, Republic is reinvesting in Lawton’s manufacturing base.
Website: republicpaperboard.com
EDF Renewables & Data Centers
A renewable-backed data infrastructure project with $4 billion in investment and 400+ jobs tied to securing power first.
“It’s a race to get power. Whoever can acquire it first will be the first one to the table.”
Website: edf-re.com
Statewide Momentum, Local Stakes
Cooksey linked Lawton’s prospects to Oklahoma’s record-breaking year in development. August 2025 was declared the most successful month in state history, with projects ranging from an aluminum smelter to ammunition plants. Lawton, he reminded the council, is part of that story.
“We need to be in the room. We need to be there. If you’re not in the room, you’re not in the deal.”
What Comes Next
LEDC’s new five-year plan (2025–2030) sets ambitious benchmarks: at least 100 leads and 500 prospects per year, greater national media visibility, and continued land and infrastructure prep to keep Lawton competitive.
Cooksey acknowledged that some projects may take years to land, but stressed that the groundwork—literally and figuratively—has been laid.