Dewey Park under construction in Capitol View Neighborhood

Construction is underway on a 4-acre park at the former Dewey Elementary School site, 3500 N. Lindsay Ave., in northeast Oklahoma City. 

The city purchased the property in December 2024 from Oklahoma City Public Schools to build a new park in Ward 7. Downey Construction is the general contractor for the $2.5 million project, which is set to open in mid-2025. 

The Capitol View Neighborhood Association applied for and was selected to join the city’s Strong Neighborhoods Initiative (SNI). Through the program, the city identified investments to help improve the area, with one of the top priorities being the removal of the long-vacant school and replacing it with a park. 

The park marks the final project in a five-year, $3 million revitalization plan for the Capitol View neighborhood through SNI. Previous work included nine new homes, 37 housing repairs, public art, tree planting and other improvements. 

“The park will serve as a catalyst for revitalization and social interaction, fostering greater unity within the community through exercise, relaxation, stress reduction and enhanced mental well-being for all,” said Priscilla Meadows-Norwood, president of the Capitol View Neighborhood Association. “The completion of Dewey Park marks the fulfillment of the dedicated efforts of past and present presidents, and the members of the Capitol View Neighborhood Association.” 

Dewey Park will feature large, flower-shaped play structures, making it the first neighborhood park of its kind in OKC. Amenities will include a walking path, public art, shade structures, exercise stations, picnic tables, sports courts, trees, planting beds for native species and a memorial wall honoring community leaders. 

“OKC Parks landscape architect Subhashini Gamagedara did a wonderful job listening to the community; she has designed a one-of-a-kind space that will be enjoyed for generations,” said Urban Revitalization Program Planner Shannon Entz. “Our SNI team has thoroughly enjoyed working with the neighborhood and can’t wait for the grand opening this summer.” 

“We’re so excited to add a new park in the Capitol View Neighborhood,” said Melinda McMillan-Miller, OKC Parks director. “We hope this park becomes a gathering space for the community and creates more opportunity for residents to enjoy the outdoors.” 

The OKC Parks and Recreation Department will oversee the park’s operations and maintenance.