Construction begins on northeast OKC MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center
The transformation of northeast Oklahoma City kicked into higher gear Tuesday, with the official start of construction on the new MAPS 3 Health and Wellness Center at NE 36th Street and Lincoln Boulevard.
The 44,810 square-foot senior center is the third of four included in MAPS 3, with a fifth coming as part of MAPS 4. The new center on the northeast side is scheduled to open next year, operated by Langston University in conjunction with the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City.
“Improving the health outcomes for residents and better recreation for seniors in northeast Oklahoma City has been a continuous effort,” said Ward 7 Councilwoman Nikki Nice Nice. “With the three buildings under construction throughout the area, we are confident that this will significantly improve the lives of our many residents. They are the MAPS 3 Senior Health and Wellness Center, a new Homeland grocery store next door and the Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center in Douglass Park. We expect the impact of the wellness center to be a critical community hub and a great connection of culture after it opens.”
The MAPS 3 Senior Health and Wellness Center will provide wellness and social connections for people age 50 and up. The facility will include a heated combination lap and therapy pool, fitness center, gym, game room, classroom space for art and programs, computer area, demonstration kitchen, gathering spaces and an elevated indoor walking and jogging track.
The facility will also include multipurpose clinic space with exam rooms. Langston University will rotate healthcare students through for health screenings and possible physical therapy services.
Large windows will provide natural light through the two-story building. The front entrance will feature a large, covered entry and circle drive, and the grounds will include gardens, patios and space for activities.
“Community outreach is a hallmark of the Langston University mission,” said Langston President Kent J. Smith Jr. “Our goal is to serve northeast Oklahoma City by creating quality fitness, wellness education and art programs that will nurture and improve members’ lives while celebrating this community’s rich history. Personal growth and improvement should be a lifelong effort.”
The building has a shared parking lot with the new Homeland under construction next door.
The $11.7 million facility will open debt-free.
Two MAPS 3 Senior Health and Wellness Centers are already open – one on the northwest side at 11501 N Rockwell Ave. operated by Healthy Living and Fitness, and the Pete White Health and Wellness Center at 4021 S Walker Ave. near the Capitol Hill area.
The fourth is being designed now and will be located on Western Avenue south of SW 134th Street, operated by the YMCA. MAPS 4 includes the future fifth Senior Health and Wellness Center, plus a scholarship fund for low-income seniors using the senior centers.
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