The Oklahoma City Council has approved four sites for new youth centers designed to provide after-school and summer programs aimed at fostering learning, social connection and personal development for children across the city.
Youth centers will be located at:
- Woodson Park, 3403 S. May Ave.
- S. Santa Fe Ave. & SE 66th St.
- Northeast Boys & Girls Club, 1501 NE 36th St.
- Melrose Community Center, 7800 Melrose Lane
“The future youth center sites meet the selected criteria and will best serve children in the areas of highest need in Oklahoma City,” MAPS Program Manager David Todd said. “By building youth centers in these locations, we are ensuring that more youth in our community have access to the resources, support and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Part of the MAPS 4 initiative, the project includes $118 million dedicated to constructing modern, state-of-the-art facilities. Each center will offer educational, recreational and mentorship programs, along with support services for children and families who need them most.
Site selection was guided by factors including youth population density, poverty levels, crime statistics, school data and access to public transportation. Consultants gathered input from nonprofits, law enforcement, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, local school districts and city departments during the process.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County will oversee the operation of the new centers. Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County President and CEO Teena Belcik said the organization is honored to partner with the city on this project.
“We could not have reached this important milestone without the work of many caring, committed people. We are grateful to the City Council, Citizens Advisory Board and Neighborhoods Subcommittee for their partnership and support.” Belcik said. “We look forward to working with the city and community partners to ensure young people throughout Oklahoma City reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens.”
Programming will include athletics, arts, health, educational resources and more. Bockus Payne Associates will design the first facility.
