The City of Catoosa, Oklahoma, is looking for about $6 million in improvements to its Blue Whale site before Route 66’s centennial in 2026.
John Blish, the city manager, said he wants to add more amenities to the site to make it more tourist-friendly, according to a report from News on 6 in nearby Tulsa.
Blish doesn’t want to take away from the whale, but he hopes to enhance it with photo opportunities, a waterfall, and a paved walkway.
“I would probably prefer a walkway, waterfall, something. A tourist, you come out here and exercise your legs a little bit, get some fresh air, take in some scenery. That would probably be my preference,” Richard Higgs, a traveler from Missouri, said.
Also included in the master plan are vacation rental units and putt-putt golf. […]
Bathroom renovations are high on the list in this master plan. The whale will be untouched except for routine maintenance and touch-ups.
According to an agenda from the city’s park board, a Route 66 arch at the site also is suggested.
The plans would require final approval from the city council. Money for the improvements would come from the city and a state Route 66 fund.
Hugh Davis hand-made the Blue Whale out of concrete and shaped rebar in 1972 as an anniversary gift to his wife. The Blue Whale and its spring-fed pond became a popular swimming hole for locals and travelers along Route 66 alike.
It closed in 1988 and fell into disrepair until it was restored in the early 2000s. Davis’ son, Blaine, was the caretaker at the property for years.
The city purchased the Blue Whale site and its land in 2020 from the Davis family for $1.5 million.
(Image of the Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma, by Ayleen Dority via Flickr)
I’m in favor of the implementation of the site if it’s local money. Please no federal funding. I did 66 both ways Chicago to LA. The big blue whale was highly anticipated. I was disappointed. stagnant water and litter. absolutely nothing special.