Route 66 Veterans Plaza

Project Status Update

As we enter 2023 we wanted to provide the community an update and let our donors know that status of the project as well.

To our donors, thank you for your donation to the Veteran’s Plaza. Unfortunately, the site location which was chosen for the memorial has now become unavailable.  We are diligently working to secure an alternative site, as we have been in the fundraising mode for several years.

While it is sad news that our original location isn’t available that’s not necessarily a bad thing, it means many of Bethany’s key stakeholders are investing in Bethany too.

It is our goal to secure a location this year, begin construction in 2024 and open the plaza in 2025.

If some unfortunate circumstance occurs and we cannot build the memorial, BIF would offer to refund the donations. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The Veteran's Plaza was designed by local sculptor, Scott Stearman, as a way to honor all members of our Armed Services. Southern Nazarene University has generously donated the northwest side of Donald Street and NW 39th Expressway (Route 66) for the placement of the memorial. Bethany Improvement Foundation is working to raise funds to make this wonderful tribute a reality.

Donations are being solicited and should be sent to Priscilla Cude, Treasurer, Bethany Improvement Foundation, P.O. Box 218, Bethany, OK 73008. Payable to Bethany Improvement Foundation, which is a 501-c-3 charitable contribution.

You can purchase a paving stone to commemorate someone and that will go toward funding the project. Here is that link.

Priscilla Cude, left, presents  a check for $12,500 as a donation from First Bethany Bank and Trust to Marcia Doom

Priscilla Cude, left, presents a check for $12,500 as a donation from First Bethany Bank and Trust to Marcia Doom

Route 66 Veterans Plaza Donors:

First Bethany Bank and Trust - $12,500
Dr. Arlita Harris - $20,000
Gary Banz - $1,000
Frank Smithers - $1,000
Rick Farmer - $1,000
Boerstler Foundation - $2,000

Daniel Fields - $1,000