OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — On Tuesday, the Oklahoma City Council took a significant step in the development of a new state-of-the-art sports arena by approving a contract with Midwest Wrecking to demolish Prairie Surf Studios, formerly known as the Cox/Myriad Convention Center. This demolition is pivotal as it will clear the way for the construction of the new Paycom Center, set to become the new home of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
The approved contract, amounting to $11 million, allows Midwest Wrecking to begin tearing down the building, a move that city officials say is crucial for the advancement of the project. According to David Todd, the arena program manager, the demolition is expected to occur wall by wall over the course of the next few months, with an official start set for April 2025. “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,” Todd said, indicating the careful approach being taken as the building comes down.
Demolition is scheduled to last between six to eight months, which means that the existing Paycom Center will continue to serve as the Oklahoma City Thunder's home until the new arena opens. Currently, architectural design for the new venue is underway, with construction anticipated to begin in 2026 and completion expected by June 2028.
City officials have emphasized that there is a contractual obligation to have the new arena operational by June 2030—a deadline that aligns with the Thunder’s 25-year commitment to remain in Oklahoma City once they move into their new home. This commitment reflects not only the city's dedication to maintaining its professional sports franchise but also highlights the importance of the Paycom Center in strengthening Oklahoma City's reputation as a hub for major sporting events.
As demolition proceeds, the community has expressed a mix of nostalgia and excitement. Prairie Surf Studios has been a prominent venue in the city, hosting various events since its inception. The shift to a new center symbolizes progress and a commitment to enhancing facilities for both athletes and fans.
The Oklahoma City Council's decision is part of a larger strategy to not only provide the Thunder with a modern arena but also to foster growth within the city, drawing potential events and visitors that can benefit the local economy. This initiative will bring a fresh vibrancy to the area as it transforms into a premier sporting location.
As the days turn into weeks leading up to the demolition, residents are bracing for the changes it will bring, pondering both the memories attached to the Prairie Surf Studios and the potential the new Paycom Center holds for Oklahoma City’s future. The anticipation is palpable as the city makes strides toward a brighter, more dynamic sports landscape.
