OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — The Oklahoma City Council took a major step on March 25, 2025, by approving a contract with Midwest Wrecking Company to demolish Prairie Surf Studios, setting the stage for the future Paycom Center, which is targeted to be the new home for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The council voted in favor of an $11 million contract with the demolition firm, allowing efforts to move forward with the much-anticipated groundwork for the new arena. Demolition is scheduled to commence in April and is expected to take approximately six to eight months to complete, beginning the transformation of the site.
David Todd, the arena program manager, highlighted some of the emotional aspects of this demolition. “We’ve removed nostalgic items from the arena like a medallion that was embedded in the floor, light fixtures with section numbers on them, flags and some of the seating,” he explained. This effort aims to honor the memories tied to the old building while paving the way for modern developments.
The new Paycom Center is part of a larger initiative to create a state-of-the-art venue that will not only host Thunder games but also serve as a location for various major events in Oklahoma City. Construction for the Paycom Center is slated to begin in 2026, with a completion target set for June 2028, shaping a new chapter for sports and entertainment in the area.
Funding for the nearly billion-dollar project will come through multiple sources, with the primary method being a 72-month, one-cent sales tax that will commence once the current MAP 4 tax period concludes. In addition, the project will benefit from $70 million allocated through MAPS 4 funds and another $50 million contributed by the Oklahoma City Thunder ownership group.
During this transitional period, the Thunder will continue to play their home games at the existing Paycom Center until the new facility opens its doors. As the demolition of Prairie Surf Studios unfolds, excitement continues to build among fans and community members alike for the anticipated enhancements and experiences that the new Paycom Center promises to deliver.
The Oklahoma City Council’s decisions underscore a commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents. This project is seen by many as not only a sporting venue but also a catalyst for further development and investment in the downtown area.
As preparations for the demolition get underway, the community looks forward to the future while reflecting on the memories created at Prairie Surf Studios, which served as a beloved venue for many events over the years. The demolition will commence wall by wall, ensuring a careful approach to this significant change.
In summary, the Oklahoma City Council's approval of the demolition contract reflects a long-term vision for the area. With the foundations of the new Paycom Center in sight, hopes are high for a vibrant new gathering place that will cater to the evolving needs of Oklahoma City's residents and visitors alike.
