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Council approves design amendment for Elmer Thomas Park amphitheater and boardwalk plan; design work authorized contingent on reimbursement resolution
Summary
Council approved a contract amendment to move conceptual designs for a redesigned Elmer Thomas Park amphitheater, boardwalks and pedestrian bridges into full design, with the amendment contingent on a reimbursement resolution for project funding.
The Lawton City Council approved an amendment to the professional design contract for a major redevelopment of Elmer Thomas Park that will add a redesigned amphitheater, a network of boardwalks around Lake Helen, two pedestrian bridges, an observation tower and related park improvements.
Design approval and financing steps Council voted 8-0 to authorize the consultant CH Guernsey to proceed from conceptual work to full design and bidding documents. The amendment authorizes the architecture and engineering team to prepare construction-ready drawings and specifications. Council and staff clarified that the contract amendment is contingent on a formal resolution of reimbursement to ensure CIP funding will cover the design work when the city executes that formal step.
What the plan includes Consultants said the multi-phase park plan features a terraced amphitheater with a covered stage shell, a plaza and splash-pad area, two new parking lots (about 150 additional spaces), food-truck space, two pedestrian bridges across the lake, boardwalk connections around the shoreline, a small boathouse and an observation tower (about 75 feet). The plan also calls for dredging and embankment work on parts of the lake and for additional landscaping and small-event venues around the boardwalks.
Timeline and budget context Staff and the consultant presented a conceptual schedule: design through late summer, permitting and bidding in the fall and construction aimed for completion so the park could be available for large events in 2027. Council discussed the importance of long-term maintenance funding for the new facilities and confirmed staff will return with a resolution of reimbursement that formalizes the funding plan before major expenditures are incurred.
Why it matters Council members described the project as a transformative civic investment that will increase park use, attract events and expand recreation options. Dredging and improved lake access are intended to increase safe waterfront activities and support larger festivals.
Provenance Design presentation and approval discussion led by CH Guernsey and city staff; council vote recorded 8-0 to approve amendment contingent on reimbursement resolution.
