The City of Chandler, Oklahoma, announced it will hold a grand opening on July 4 for McClanahan Park — including a 30-foot-tall statue of the 66 Man comic book superhero created by resident and Route 66 artist Jerry McClanahan.
The city stated on Facebook:
The grand opening will take place from 7–9 p.m. and will feature guest speakers, a ribbon cutting, and a free concert by local band RedLand. Attendees will also get to see the park’s 30-foot-tall statue of the 66 Man, a superhero character created by McClanahan. 66 Man merchandise will also be available for purchase. Free shuttle bus service will be provided to transport attendees to and from the park. Full shuttle and parking information will be provided soon.
The park is at 400 E. First St., near the Route 66 Interpretive Center.
Someone was there when the statue was installed on Monday:
McClanahan’s mockup of 66 Man can be found here. He said he hopes to have a 66 Man comic book out this year.
The City of Chandler received a $650,000 grant from the Oklahoma Route 66 Commission to develop McClanahan Park.
In addition to his well-known artwork, McClanahan wrote the “EZ66 Guide for Travelers” and is a member of the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame.
(Poster of the McClanahan Park grand opening via City of Chandler, Oklahoma)