Check out the family-friendly features, programming and pool! The new recreation center replaces the current Douglass Community Center built in 1926. It’s the first modern multi-purpose recreation center built within OKC Parks in more than 40 years. The new center will provide active recreation space, fitness areas and classes, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a teaching kitchen for cooking classes, classrooms, multi-use rooms and an indoor pool complete with a lazy river and water slide. Swim lessons will be offered as well. A child watch area will be available for children ages 3 to 6 while their parents or guardians make use of the facility, and a teen lounge will include an e-sports and gaming area, large TVs and desktop computers. The pool and a community room will be available to rent for parties. Councilwoman Nice says the center will provide programming the community had not previously been able to access. “We’re looking at leagues, tournaments [and] maybe swim meets,” said Nice, who added this is all in an area that once had no public pools. Memberships will be available for a monthly fee with more information available at okc.gov/parks.
Enjoy colorful public art. One hallway in the new center will be dedicated to showcasing art from local students and artists. Some of the first pieces that will be on display were created by students from Douglass High School. Councilwoman Nice also plans to engage local artists to help decorate the interior of the facility. Connect to the community. Physically, new pathways will connect the center to the nearby Douglass Park and its soon-to-be-renovated baseball field. The park and field are just steps away from the James E. Stewart Golf Course, which Johnson was involved in reopening during her time on city council. Community connections will also be built inside the center. “We have dedicated staff who love working with youth of all ages and can mentor them on their path progressing toward college or career,” said Williams. “And youth can interact with professional people in the community who can help mentor and guide them in their path.” For more information about the Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center, grand opening events or supporting the center through the endowment, visit okc.gov/parks.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2023 15
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