Salt Fork Event Center

Fifty Years of Grit, One Unforgettable Venue

Alva, OK

After 50 years of community fundraising and a decade of architectural planning, the Salt Fork Event Center has transformed a vision into reality for Alva, Oklahoma. This $28.8 million, 207,711 SF multi-purpose facility represents more than construction – it’s the culmination of a community’s determination to create something extraordinary.

The project challenged our team to build far beyond a typical event venue. We constructed a comprehensive entertainment complex featuring a full-scale rodeo arena with professional-grade equipment, an exposition hall for community gatherings, and an exhibition hall designed with elevated finishes for weddings and conferences. The facility also includes administrative offices, a 300-stall horse barn, an equestrian warm-up arena, and a 40-space RV park for visitors traveling with horse trailers.

Working over 11 months, we coordinated the construction of multiple large-scale metal buildings while managing the unique requirements of specialized rodeo equipment – something our crews don’t encounter on typical projects. Our teams self-performed the steel work, earthwork, and concrete finishing to maintain quality control throughout the build.

Oklahoma’s challenging weather conditions, particularly persistent winds that complicated metal panel and insulation installation, required adaptive construction sequencing. Our approach included bringing in Crossland’s steel division to complete critical structural work when initial subcontractors couldn’t meet project standards.

The exterior design combines functional metal construction with aesthetic enhancements, including decorative rock columns, stained concrete pads for outdoor weddings, and landscaping featuring basket weave fencing. Interior spaces showcase sealed concrete floors, acoustic sound panels in the exhibition hall, and specialized dry fall paint applications throughout.

Since opening, the facility has exceeded community expectations. The first events demonstrated the center’s capacity to serve diverse functions – from rodeo competitions to wedding receptions – validating decades of planning and community investment.

Project Facts

Industry Sector: Community, Hospitality
Cost: $28,843,397
Size: 207,711 SF on 40 Acres
Delivery Method: Construction Management, CM at Risk
Self-Perform: Earthwork, Steel Erection, Concrete
Owner: Alva Arena Authority
Architect: Priefert Complex Designs