Lawton, OK – Construction work is continuing at East Side Park in Lawton, prompting city officials to close the park’s play area and remind residents to stay out of the active construction zone.
In an update shared June 15, the City of Lawton said work is underway on the future Lawton Fort Sill Sports Plex, a project that will transform the park into a modern sports complex designed to serve local families, athletes, and visitors.
Although the playground equipment remains in place, officials said access to the play area is prohibited because it is located within an active construction site. Residents are being asked to obey all posted signs and barriers and avoid entering the area while construction activities are ongoing.
According to the City, crews are currently demolishing existing structures and sports lighting as part of the site’s redevelopment. Earthwork and excavation for the new building pad are also underway, with underground utility installation expected to begin within the coming days.
City officials said construction activity will occur throughout the park as multiple phases of the project move forward simultaneously. Work on sports fields and support facilities is expected to continue across the site, resulting in the entire park remaining under construction for the foreseeable future.
To improve safety, the City and project team are installing additional signage and taking steps to discourage unauthorized access to the construction area. Officials said they have also been communicating directly with individuals who enter the site despite posted restrictions.
Residents seeking alternative recreational opportunities while East Side Park is under construction are encouraged to visit Skyline Park, Sullivan Village Park, MacArthur Park, Prairie Park, or Panther Park. City officials noted that parking may be more limited at some of those locations but said the parks remain available for public use.
The Lawton Fort Sill Sports Plex project is expected to create a new destination for sports and community events in Lawton. Officials thanked residents for their patience during construction and encouraged the public to follow City updates as work progresses.
The City of Lawton said additional construction updates will be shared through its Facebook page and the GoLawton mobile app as the project moves toward completion.
