MAPS 3 Era Concludes: South OKC Celebrates New Senior Center
Oklahoma City marked a significant milestone this week with the completion of its MAPS 3 initiative. The final project, the state-of-the-art YMCA Healthy Living Center in South Oklahoma City, officially opened its doors, signaling the successful culmination of over a decade of community investment. This new facility promises enhanced health and wellness opportunities for the city’s older adults.
A Legacy of Community Investment: Understanding MAPS 3
The MAPS (Metropolitan Area Projects) initiatives have profoundly shaped Oklahoma City, demonstrating a unique commitment to public infrastructure and quality of life. MAPS 3, a $777 million program funded by a temporary one-cent sales tax between 2010 and 2017, comprised eight major projects aimed at enhancing the city for all residents. Its successful completion underscores OKC’s long-standing tradition of investing in itself through transparent and collaborative processes, a model that has seen continuous public support since 1993.
Introducing the YMCA Healthy Living Center
The newly unveiled YMCA Healthy Living Center, located at 13660 S Western Ave, is designed specifically to serve residents aged 50 and older. This expansive 44,800-square-foot facility is more than just a gym; it’s a comprehensive hub for active aging and social connection. Amenities include:
- A large fitness center
- A gym with pickleball setups
- A heated lap and therapy pool
- An indoor jogging track
- A dedicated health clinic
- A game room and arts classroom
- A demonstration kitchen
YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City CEO Kelly Kay emphasized the center’s role in combating isolation and loneliness, fostering a high quality of life for older adults. The center also features six unique sculptures titled “Infinite Arches” by Rachel Mica Weiss, funded by the city’s 1% for Arts program, adding an artistic touch to the wellness environment.
The center is open Monday-Thursday (5 a.m. to 9 p.m.), Friday (5 a.m. to 7 p.m.), Saturday (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), and Sunday (1 p.m. to 5 p.m.). For membership information, residents can call 405-378-0420 or visit ymcaokc.org.
Local Leaders Reflect on MAPS Success
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt highlighted the city’s unique ability to pass such ambitious initiatives. “This is a community that invests in itself,” Holt stated, noting the continuous success since the original MAPS in 1993. He acknowledged that while MAPS 3 passed by a thin margin, recent proposals like MAPS 4 have seen overwhelming public support, indicating a growing understanding and enthusiasm for these projects.
Former Ward 5 Councilmember David Greenwell, who served during much of the center’s development, likened the anticipation to waiting in line for a popular restaurant. “But once you get to the front of the line… all of that frustration goes away,” he remarked, celebrating the center’s opening as a satisfying culmination.
The Full Scope of MAPS 3 Projects
The YMCA Healthy Living Center represents the last of four senior wellness centers funded by MAPS 3. Beyond these vital community hubs, the initiative delivered several other transformative projects for Oklahoma City:
- A new Oklahoma City Convention Center
- The iconic downtown Scissortail Park
- The OKC Streetcar system
- The Bennett Event Center at the OKC Fairgrounds
- The Riversport Rapids whitewater rafting and kayaking center
- Extensive new trails including West River, Will Rogers, Lake Draper, Katy and Air Depot
- New sidewalks in high-demand pedestrian areas
The Ongoing MAPS Journey
With MAPS 3 officially complete, the city now looks ahead to MAPS 4. This new initiative, budgeted at $1.1 billion, promises 16 new projects, including a fifth wellness center and additional funds for its operation and financial assistance for low-income seniors. The legacy of community-driven development continues.
| MAPS Initiative | Approval Margin | Budget (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Original MAPS | Thin margin | N/A (not specified) |
| MAPS 3 | Thin margin | $777 Million |
| MAPS 4 | Landslide victory | $1.1 Billion |
Frequently Asked Questions About MAPS 3 and the New Center
- What is MAPS 3?
MAPS 3 was a $777 million capital improvement program in Oklahoma City, funded by a temporary one-cent sales tax from 2010-2017, to fund eight quality-of-life projects. - What is the new YMCA Healthy Living Center?
It’s the fourth and final senior health and wellness center funded by MAPS 3, offering comprehensive facilities for residents age 50 and older, including fitness areas, pools, and social spaces. - Who can use the new center and how do I learn more?
The center is designed for residents aged 50 and older. You can get membership information by calling 405-378-0420 or visiting ymcaokc.org. - What happens after MAPS 3?
The city has already approved MAPS 4, a $1.1 billion initiative with 16 new projects, including an additional wellness center and operating funds for seniors.
The completion of MAPS 3, capped by the opening of the YMCA Healthy Living Center, reinforces Oklahoma City’s dedication to its residents’ well-being and future growth. It’s an invitation for locals to engage, explore, and benefit from the ongoing investment in our community.
MAPS 3 Concludes With New Senior Center In South OKC
