Route 66 Eagle’s Nest Takes Shape in Edmond Sculpture Park

Construction crews at the Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park in Edmond made a significant advancement on October 16, 2023, by installing the central column for the park’s signature attraction, the Route 66 Eagle’s Nest. This 40-foot-tall, five-foot-diameter steel column will support a grand 64-foot recreational sculpture, which is set to become a highlight of the park and a prominent feature on one of Edmond’s highest elevations.

Once completed, the Eagle’s Nest will provide visitors with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Route 66 and the tranquil waters of Arcadia Lake. “Today marks an exciting milestone as we see this focal point of the park take shape,” stated Melissa Pepper, executive director of The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park. The structure is designed to foster community engagement with art, reflecting both the region’s history and natural beauty.

Architectural Vision and Community Impact

The architectural vision for the Eagle’s Nest comes from Rand Elliott, an award-winning architect renowned for his work on the 66-foot pop bottle at Pops 66 in Arcadia. He crafted the Eagle’s Nest using weather-resistant corten steel and pipe, drawing inspiration from Oklahoma’s industrial legacy and the surrounding Cross Timbers landscape. “The Eagle’s Nest is inspired by natural habitats that still thrive around Arcadia Lake,” Elliott explained. “We’re honoring Oklahoma’s industrial heritage while creating something entirely new.”

The design includes a secure spiral staircase leading to a main observation platform at 37 feet, complemented by a lower accessible platform at 15 feet to accommodate visitors of all abilities. Educational signage will highlight the rich history of Route 66, and nighttime lighting will enhance visibility from afar, making the structure a landmark.

Project Progress and Future Plans

Edmond Mayor Mark Nash expressed optimism about the ongoing progress, noting that the installation of the column signifies the project’s final phase. “We’ve finally rounded the corner and are looking at the home stretch,” he stated, referring to the upcoming work on road paving, parking lots, and additional building developments.

The Uncommon Ground Sculpture Park, located on a former Arabian horse farm, spans 62 acres and has successfully secured 75% of its $50 million construction budget. Funding has come from various sources, including the City of Edmond, the State of Oklahoma, local foundations, and corporate sponsors. Upon its anticipated opening in 2026, the park will showcase over 60 sculptures in collaboration with the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, establishing Oklahoma’s first public sculpture park and a vital tourist destination along the historic Route 66.

As the Eagle’s Nest takes flight, it symbolizes not only artistic ambition but also a commitment to community and heritage in Edmond, inviting visitors to connect with both nature and history.