Conroe Expands Recreation with Oscar Johnson Jr. Center

**Conroe Breaks Ground on Transformative Oscar Johnson Jr. Center, Ushering in New Era of Community Recreation**

**CONROE, TX – January 30, 2026** – The City of Conroe officially broke ground today on its ambitious new Oscar Johnson Jr. Center, a $37.5 million project set to dramatically expand and modernize the city’s recreational amenities. The ceremonial shovel-turn took place this morning at 100 West Semands Street, mere steps from the aging facility it is destined to replace.

City officials, community leaders, and members of the Johnson family gathered under clear skies to mark the beginning of construction on the expansive 52,000-square-foot facility. This state-of-the-art center is designed to serve as a vibrant hub for all ages, a significant upgrade from the current 1968 building, which spans a mere 12,000 square feet and has long been deemed insufficient for Conroe’s rapidly growing population.

“Today marks a pivotal moment for Conroe,” said Mayor Sarah Johnson, addressing the crowd. “The Oscar Johnson Jr. Center isn’t just a building; it’s an investment in our community’s health, well-being, and future. For years, our residents have deserved a recreational facility that reflects the dynamism and growth of our city, and with this groundbreaking, that vision is now becoming a reality.”

The Conroe City Council unanimously approved the project on February 27, 2025, securing funding through Certificates of Obligation – a common municipal financing tool that allows cities to fund capital projects without voter approval, repaid through general revenue. Construction is anticipated to have begun in Summer 2025, with the new center slated for completion and opening by Spring 2027.

The new facility promises a comprehensive array of features. Indoors, it will boast two full-size gymnasiums with bleacher seating, four versatile multi-purpose classrooms ideal for educational programs and community meetings, and a cutting-edge fitness center equipped with a jogging track and an elevated walking track. Beyond athletic pursuits, the center will include a dedicated game room, a vibrant teen room, and a significantly larger banquet hall capable of accommodating up to 300 people, providing an ideal venue for local events and celebrations.

“We listened carefully to what our residents wanted and needed,” explained Mike Riggens, Conroe’s Director of Parks and Recreation. “From youth sports leagues to senior fitness classes, from tutoring programs to large community gatherings, this center is designed to be truly multi-generational and inclusive. The expanded capacity and modern amenities will allow us to offer an unparalleled range of programming.”

Beyond the interior, the plans reveal an extensive outdoor community space designed to foster interaction and activity. This area will feature additional outdoor courts, a large pavilion for shaded gatherings, an interactive splash pad for summer fun, and an amphitheater perfect for concerts, theatrical performances, and community events. The design also incorporates dedicated multi-generational spaces and ample parking for 300 vehicles, addressing a critical need for the expanded programming expected.

The center bears the name of Oscar Johnson Jr., a revered figure in Conroe’s history. Johnson, a prominent African American businessman and community leader, was instrumental in advocating for civil rights and improving quality of life for all residents during a pivotal time in the city’s development. The original center was named in his honor in recognition of his tireless efforts and dedication to fostering community cohesion.

“My grandfather would be incredibly proud to see this day,” said Eleanor Johnson-Davis, Oscar Johnson Jr.’s granddaughter, who attended the ceremony. “He believed in bringing people together and creating opportunities. This new center, with its promise of inclusivity and expanded services, truly embodies his enduring legacy.”

Local businesses are also expected to benefit from the project, both during its construction phase, which is projected to create numerous jobs, and once operational, by drawing visitors and families to the area. City officials envision the Oscar Johnson Jr. Center becoming a cornerstone of community life, enhancing the quality of living for Conroe residents for generations to come.

As construction moves forward, the city plans to provide regular updates to the community on its progress, ensuring transparency and continued engagement until the grand opening in Spring 2027. Residents can visit the City of Conroe Parks and Recreation website for more information on the project and future programming opportunities.