Martin Park Nature Center to get improvements  

Park to remain open during three-month construction project

(March 25, 2008) - Crews will begin work on several improvement projects at Martin Park Nature Center beginning Monday, March 31.  Projects include resurfacing the main parking lot, replacement of sewer lines at the park’s education center, and construction of a new picnic shelter, outdoor learning area, and ADA-accessible entry trail.

The Center will remain open during the construction period, although visitors will need to park in a non-paved parking area west of the park’s current main entrance on Memorial Road.  Signage along Memorial will direct visitors to the temporary parking area and shelter.

Park naturalists will remain on hand to assist visitors with any needs during the construction, and to lead guided hikes and scheduled education programming.

Construction is slated to last approximately 3 months, pending any delays caused by inclement weather.

“We recognize this might inconvenience folks just a bit,” said Neil Garrison, park naturalist.  “But we’re optimistic that once these improvements are made, they will greatly enhance the experience for all of our visitors.”

The total cost of the improvements is $453,000.  Funding comes from 1995 General Obligation Bond Issue monies.  This is the last issuance from the 1995 General Obligation Bond for the Parks & Recreation Department.

Martin Park Nature Center offers a variety of special guided hikes and education programs for children and adults.  For a complete list of programs and activities, citizens may call the center at 755-0676, or visit the park’s webpage at www.okc.gov/parks.

Martin Park Nature Center is located at 5000 West Memorial Road, on the south side of Memorial between Meridian and MacArthur.  The park is open every Wednesday-Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except July 4, Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s.