Route 66 is gearing up to commemorate its 100th anniversary, with the Route 66 Commission in Tulsa, Oklahoma, launching initiatives to rejuvenate the historic highway. As part of this effort, the commission has introduced a neon sign grant program that has led to the installation or restoration of 84 neon signs along Tulsa’s 28-mile stretch of the route. Michael Wallis, a prominent advocate for Route 66 and founder of the Route 66 Alliance, emphasized the importance of preserving the highway’s legacy, referring to it as a “winding museum.” Despite challenges faced by local businesses following the decommissioning of Route 66 from the national highway system, efforts like the neon grant aim to attract more visitors and breathe new life into the area. The next phase includes plans for a matching grant to restore building facades, further enhancing the historic route’s appeal.
Why It Matters
Route 66, often called the “Main Street of America,” played a crucial role in the westward expansion of the United States and has become a symbol of American culture. Its decommissioning in the latter half of the 20th century led to significant economic decline for many towns along the route. Revitalization efforts like the neon sign program not only aim to boost local economies but also preserve cultural heritage. The historical significance of Route 66 continues to attract tourists, making its preservation vital for maintaining a connection to American history and identity.
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