08 November 2026
Elk City's City Commission is reviewing a proposal for a large recreational sports complex as the town pursues aggressive development along its popular I-40 corridor. The plan comes as Elk City continues investing heavily in community projects funded by a voter-approved sales tax.
Backed by the city's "Economic Development / C.A.P.P.S." program, Elk City has already allocated $70 million for a string of community enhancements. Launched in February 2019, the program completed its first major undertaking in March 2020, installing synthetic turf on 17 baseball and softball fields throughout the city.
Phase two will build a 50,000-square-foot activity center boasting three full basketball courts, six volleyball courts, an elevated walking track for senior citizens, a multi-purpose community area, and management offices.
Elk City's C.A.P.P.S. roadmap details upcoming projects including plans for an Aquatics Center, a Convention Center, an Ag Expo Center, and an upgraded Oil and Gas Museum. Additional plans include a Farmers Market pavilion, a Food Truck Court, splash pads, and even a dedicated dog park.
If approved, the coming 18-month accelerated timeline by the commission would rapidly advance many of these developments. Able to host youth and senior tournaments, summer camps, and walking events, the building's construction would likely be handled entirely by local contractors, progressing from Phase 3A to 3C, according to the proposal.
"The commission's upcoming discussion isn't just about brick and mortar, it's about what that means for Elk City in general. Building recreation like this can change a town."
The proposed plan would be located at 320 West Third Street in a preferred development area called CC Increment, according to a draft site map. That location also aligns with the city's current industrial and business emphasis. City planners have labeled it one of the top economic development priorities for 2027.
Featuring parks, biking paths, and diverse housing options, this International Design competition zone comprises 202 acres of land around historic mid-century neighborhood blocks. Nearby businesses and vibrant neighborhoods would collectively generate high-quality customers. Big Elk Industrial Park, currently at 130 acres, already offers rail access and full utility installation, half a mile from Interstate 40.
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Elk City's economic development team believes that the area's location is a strong selling point, as noted in the presentation. Although the Industrial Parks are nearly full, the available acreage of Big Elk has attracted Flotek, a new well-control chemical producer, to the area. All land parcels are scattered, non-contiguous, or not in the underutilized rural I-40 corridor.
While Shaw hasn't issued final specifics of his building proposal, there are likely to be multiple smaller projects. In terms of numbers, Hawthorne's proposal amounts to a significant investment. And if the commission decides to wait, the undeveloped land parcels will soon become available for sale.
Such a sizable community investment is largely driven by the city's current economic strategy. Located on I-40 between Oklahoma City and Amarillo, Texas, Elk City's business focus is on attracting industrial investment and retail development.
"Known for its recreational offerings, Elk City maintains Arrowhead Center, which hosts various sports teams, e-sports, yoga, track, basketball, and more," a representative explained. "It also has Big Elk Stadium and 5 Plex, an all-turf league softball and baseball complex with 16 fields."
Elk City was once an oil and gas hotspot. Although energy prices are rising, local leaders want to emphasize the town's other assets. Current recreation is essential, but the larger strategy is to attract more industry and visitors. The commission's upcoming discussion gives the public a chance to weigh in.
The commission will hold a public meeting Monday night at 7pm, as part of its regular agenda. The development proposal will be discussed at length in the commission chambers, and a vote is expected by the following month.