Tribal complex expansion means better service for Cherokee citizens

Rendering of the W.W. Keeler Complex’s 31,550-square-foot second story addition.

The W.W. Keeler Cherokee Nation Tribal Complex in our capital city of Tahlequah is the central hub of our Nation. Tens of thousands of Cherokee Nation citizens pass through the doors of our tribal complex each year seeking services that will improve their lives and the lives of their families.

Despite the tribal complex being the heartbeat of our Nation, no major investments or improvements have been made to our headquarters since 1992. After more than 20 years of neglect, we decided the time is right for upgrading and expanding the complex. Without a doubt, the need to grow is great and the opportunity for us to address it is now. It’s long overdue.

In the capital city of the Cherokee Nation, we should have a building that feels culturally authentic and makes our people and employees proud. A distinguished place where citizens can come, feel comfortable and get the services they need. Our complex should be a source of pride and reverence, a headquarters for the people with sufficient space for visitors and staff alike. Cherokee people deserve that.

Without proper upkeep, a structure like the complex will deteriorate. However, instead of patching rooftops here and there, we are making a quality investment in our infrastructure that will have a lasting effect for years for the Cherokee people.

This major renovation includes a 31,550-square-foot second story addition on the west end of the building. When completed, our building will be 117,000-square-foot. A canopy will also cover the main entrance to better shelter visitors as they enter and exit the building. We are also installing a new energy-efficient HVAC system, as well as a new pitched metal roof over the single story portion of the complex to match the second floor addition.

These upgrades, scheduled to be completed by next summer, will add to the effectiveness and the beauty of our tribal complex. The Cherokee Nation has always been a good steward of its financial resources. The expansion and improvements are smart investments because they will have a positive impact on so many Cherokee Nation citizens for years and years. 

The new space will allow us to better serve the Cherokee people while better accommodating our growing workforce. Over the years, we have added and expanded the programs and services that Cherokee people utilize daily. In turn, we have had to add the staff to fulfill those responsibilities. This expansion will ease the congestion for Cherokees seeking services, visitors and staff that we routinely experience at the Cherokee Nation. Visits to our tribal complex will be easier, faster and more accessible.

Excluding our renowned health centers, the Cherokee Nation employs 2,250 people, but only about 400 work in the tribe’s main complex due to space constraints. We have an opportunity to bring more of our dedicated staff to work in one location. We estimate more than 150,000 visitors annually cross the threshold of the tribal headquarters. That is people we serve on a daily basis for governmental services coupled with those visiting for the first time or reconnecting during Cherokee National Holiday.

I am proud we are able to launch this development. When complete, the new and improved Cherokee Nation complex will be yet another source of pride for all Cherokee people.