OKC Begins Bricktown Canal Lighting Fixture Updates Almost 2 Years After Electrocution Death

While business in Bricktown slowly returns, Oklahoma City's parks and recreation department are working to make it as safe as possible for visitors. This comes after an electrocution almost two years ago.

"Bricktown canal was in need of a lot of different upgrades," said Melinda McMillan-Miller, the assistant director of parks and recreation.

Work is now underway.

"Between extra landscaping, enhanced landscaping, better lighting, so people feel more secure in the evenings, as well as just the new attractions that have been brought to Bricktown," said McMillan-Miller. 

Those attractions consist of mini-golf, features at the railroad wall enchanting public gatherings, and much more.

"We have added new handicap rail access and better bridges towards the lower part of the canal," said McMillan-Miller.  

Two years ago, Wesley Seeley died when a light fixture along the canal gave way. It was a moment caught on camera. Seeley and the live wires from the light plunged into the water. Seeley was electrocuted.

Since then, the City have been working to improve the light system along the canal.

"Between the Wanda Jackson Way bridge all the way to the railroad wall, we have installed 40 new led powered, 120 vault pole lights," said McMillan-Miller. 

With these lights being higher and brighter, officials said this makes the canal safer at night.

"These have been brought up to modern electrical code," said McMillan-Miller. 

But it took almost two years.

"Making sure we had the funding gathered appropriately, and the money was allocated properly, so it took some time," said McMillan-Miller.  

Lighting is scheduled to be done in mid-September.