CATOOSA, Okla. — Since Cunningham Construction began the needed improvements to the Blue Whale of Catoosa property last September, travelers and the community alike have eagerly awaited the new look.
With city employees watching on, the new sign pointing to the treasured landmark finally lit up with its neon lights at 8:59 p.m. on May 11.
"The neon lights are something that's traditional with the old Route 66," Mayor Greg Williams told 2 News Oklahoma just before the lighting. "We wanted to attract people coming down Route 66 to pay attention to it and drive in and see what the visitor center is all about."
May 30 at 2 p.m. is the grand opening of the newly-paved parking lot and appropriately-designed mid-century modern visitors center (funded by a Route 66 grant), in which visitors will once again be able to approach Hugh Davis' 1972 anniversary present, this time with a more welcoming display at night.
As for any other plans?
- Previous coverage>>> TRANSFORMATION: Visitor center takes shape at Blue Whale of Catoosa
"You can't do the swimming (in the pond) at this point, but we want to do something for the kids in the future," Mayor Williams said. "My vision as to possibly have a splash pad (in the second phase of improvements)."
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