A Landmark of Community Pride in Moore, Oklahoma
In the center of Moore, Oklahoma, a special place has taken root. The Station at Central Park is far more than just another recreation center; it is a sprawling, modern facility that has quickly become the vibrant, beating heart of the local community.
It has grown into a cherished space where families gather, new friendships are made, and the resilient spirit of Moore is on full display. The facility stands as a landmark achievement for the city, a powerful testament to what a community can accomplish when it comes together with a shared vision.
Forged by Community, Built for the Future
The story of The Station began not with a blueprint, but with a vote. Through a 2012 bond referendum, the residents of Moore chose to make the single largest investment in their city’s history, a decision that was as much about heart as it was about funding.
The grand opening on April 16, 2016, was a day of immense pride and celebration. It marked a pivotal moment, symbolizing the community’s resilience and its optimistic gaze toward the future. As Mayor Glenn Lewis remarked, The Station shows the world that Moore is not just surviving, but thriving.
Echoes of the Railroad: A Nod to Moore’s Heritage
Moore’s identity is deeply connected to the railroad, a history that is thoughtfully woven into the very fabric of The Station. The active BNSF Railroad tracks still run along the park’s eastern edge, a living reminder of the city’s origins.
The design, crafted by TAP Architecture, pays homage to this heritage in ways both big and small. From a train-themed playground that sparks children’s imaginations to architectural lines that echo a classic depot, the design respectfully nods to the past while building for the future.
Inside the Recreation Center: A Hub of Activity
The 60,000-square-foot recreation center is a constant buzz of energy, a place designed for wellness, connection, and enjoyment for residents of every age.
Inside, a modern fitness center is filled with state-of-the-art equipment. Nearby, basketball courts echo with friendly competition, and an indoor walking track offers a perfect space for exercise regardless of the weather.
Beyond fitness, the center serves the community with rentable meeting rooms for local events and the welcome convenience of on-site childcare, making it an accessible hub for everyone.
Making a Splash: The Aquatic Center
When the Oklahoma sun is high and hot, the 30,000-square-foot outdoor aquatic center becomes a shimmering, joyful oasis. It is a beloved destination designed purely for summer fun and relaxation.
The water park invites visitors to float down a winding lazy river, experience the thrill of several large water slides, swim laps in a dedicated pool, or enjoy the various splash areas perfect for younger children.
It has become an incredibly popular spot, drawing families from all over the area who are looking for a fun way to cool off and create lasting summer memories.
More Than a Building: The 50-Acre Central Park
The Station is the impressive centerpiece of the much larger, 50-acre Moore Central Park. This expansive green space offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities for the entire community.
The park is home to a large amphitheater for outdoor concerts and events, scenic walking trails that meander through the landscape, and a seasonal farmers market that connects residents with fresh, local goods.
An all-inclusive playground, thoughtfully designed with a train theme, ensures that children of all abilities have a safe and engaging place to play, reinforcing the park’s welcoming spirit.
A Story of Growth: The 2024 Expansion
The community’s response to The Station was immediate and overwhelming, with membership numbers consistently soaring past all expectations. The facility’s success was a clear sign that the community wanted even more.
Listening to that demand, the city completed a $6 million, 26,800-square-foot expansion in 2024. This significant addition provides more space and new amenities to serve the growing number of residents who use the facility.
The forward-thinking design also allows for future growth to the north, ensuring The Station can continue to evolve alongside the community it serves for decades to come.
A Symbol of a Strong Community
In the end, The Station at Central Park is more than just a collection of buildings and amenities. It stands as a powerful and enduring symbol of Moore’s strength, resilience, and unwavering community spirit.
It has profoundly enhanced the quality of life for its residents, offering a world-class destination that fosters health, happiness, and human connection.
From the laughter in the aquatic park to the quiet determination on the walking track, The Station tells the story of a community that invested in itself and, in doing so, created a legacy of pride for generations to come.
