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The New Mexico Route 66 Roadside Attraction Sign Program has received prestigious recognition as an “Official Route 66 Centennial Project” from the US Route 66 Centennial Commission. In an official letter, the Route 66 Centennial Team congratulated the program, stating: “Congratulations, 'Route 66 Roadside Attraction Sign Program' is now a part of the national Route 66 Centennial Certified Projects family. You are now authorized to use the certification emblem for your promotional purposes, and your project will be listed on the National Route 66 Centennial website as a Route 66 Centennial Certified Project.” The Route 66 Roadside Attraction Sign Program focuses on installing both new and replacement signs at historic sites, businesses, and landmarks located along or near Route 66 in New Mexico. These signs serve to highlight local history, provide photo opportunities for travelers, support small businesses, and strengthen community connections. The initiative replaces worn or missing signs from previous efforts and expands signage to new historically significant locations. Funds generated from the program are directed towards the ongoing preservation and promotion of Route 66 in New Mexico. Melissa Beasley-Lee, president of the New Mexico Route 66 Association, expressed excitement about the program, noting that it is an affordable way for businesses to promote their establishments, share history, and offer engaging photo opportunities. She emphasized that combining these signs with those posted at historic sites helps promote the region’s heritage and connects communities. Beasley-Lee further stated, “We couldn’t be more honored than to receive official certification from the US Route 66 Centennial Commission. We would like to thank the commission for making this possible.” The program will remain active as long as there is interest in the signs. Those wishing to purchase signs for their business, sponsor a sign at a significant location, or learn more about the New Mexico Route 66 Roadside Attraction Sign Program are encouraged to visit https://www.rt66nm.org/roadside-attraction-sign-project.html for additional information.  Route 66 is celebrating its 100th birthday in 2026, and the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership is using the centennial celebration to help the millions of people who live, work, and travel the Mother Road through grants like the Route 66 Preservation & Economic Development (PED) Grant Program. Through generous support from American Express, the Road Ahead recently awarded more than $40,000 to Route 66 businesses and attractions. The 2025 Route 66 PED Grant Program awards go to 19 organizations in Arizona, California, Illinois, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Each recipient receives $2,125 for their qualifying project as recommended by an independent Review Committee from across the eight Route 66 states. There are four recipients from Arizona. The VFW POST 6306, located on historic Route 66 in Topock, will commission the painting of the Route 66 shield on the pavement at their address and plan a community centennial celebration. Area 66 Outreach and Marketing will facilitate advertising efforts of the world-famous "Golf Ball" located in Yucca. Kingland Studios Fun Center in Joliet is creating brand-new characters inspired by Route 66 and its communities. Additionally, Zettler’s Market will apply the reward toward much-needed repairs to its National Historic Register site in Ash Fork. In California, two projects will benefit from the PED Grants. Melting Pot Food Tours, in the Old Pasadena business district of West Hollywood, will invest in tour guide training and update its website to highlight the 100-year anniversary of Route 66. Cucamonga Service Station is reconstructing its garage, completing the restoration of the historic site. Two Illinois restaurants will also receive awards. Joliet’s White Fence Farm on Route 66 plans to paint and replace fascia boards as needed following storm damage. In Virden, Jo's Place will restore its floors to improve safety. In Rolla, Missouri, Soda & Scoops and Red Door Gifts will each be investing in building improvements to enhance the Route 66 experience. The third Missouri recipient, Campbell Express Trailer Museum, will have a new Campbell Trucking Mural painted in Lebanon Park. In New Mexico, grants will support the "66 Artists on 66" Art Show and Handmade Souvenir Shop at ART123 Gallery in Gallup, and in Grants, the award will help replace and upgrade the electrical panel box at St. Teresa's Community Center. There is a lot happening in Oklahoma. The Bristow Historical Society, will install benches and commission a Route 66 mural at Bristow’s Town Square. Magpie & Mulberry Market will build a farmer’s/vintage market at the corner of Route 66 and Highway 75 in Sapulpa. The Arcadia Round Barn will reprint its 12 historical panels and create brochures that tell the barn's story. The grant will fund professional architectural and structural planning for Saint Cate's Route 66 Folk Art Cathedral, a 1924 former church in Yukon. And in Tulsa, the iconic “COLD BEER” neon at Arnie's Bar along the original Route 66 will be repaired. And in Amarillo, Texas, the grant assists in educational materials for a secure exhibit space and long-term conservation of the Helium Times Columns Monument and plaza at the Don Harrington Discovery Center. Eligible activities included capital improvements, historic preservation planning or work, and accessibility or community outreach for businesses and attractions located on Route 66 that employ fewer than 20 full-time employees or are a small, locally owned franchise with five or fewer locations. The PED Grant Program is an Official Route 66 Centennial Project as recommended by the Route 66 Centennial Commission. Future awards will be contingent on fundraising efforts to support the ongoing Route 66 PED Grant Program. Established in 2016, with the support of the National Park Service and the World Monuments Fund, The Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership’s mission is to revitalize and sustain Route 66 as a national and international icon through partnerships focused on promotion, preservation, research and education, and economic development.  Route 66 has played a pivotal role in shaping America’s spirit of adventure, fostering a sense of community, and opening up new possibilities for generations. As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of this iconic highway, the New Mexico Route 66 Association proudly hosts a six-day journey across the Land of Enchantment to honor this remarkable legacy. The Motor Tour, scheduled for September 8-13, 2026, invites participants to embark on a memorable exploration of New Mexico’s historic 604-mile scenic byway. The tour will follow the current Route 66 alignment as well as the pre-1937 segment, offering short daily drive distances so guests can truly savor the essence of the Mother Road, relishing the fun and adventure that have defined it for a century. In partnership with Route 66 municipalities and communities statewide, the New Mexico Route 66 Association extends a heartfelt invitation to join this once-in-a-century event. The tour is more than a cruise—it’s a celebration of preservation, discovery, and economic revitalization along the legendary Route 66 corridor in New Mexico. Whether you choose to experience all six days or join for a portion of the route, you are welcome to cruise with us and discover why New Mexico is truly the Land of Enchantment. The event welcomes classic cars, contemporary vehicles, travel trailers, and motorcycles, ensuring everyone can experience the magic of Route 66. Those wishing to learn more about the New Mexico Route 66 Association Motor Tour 2026 as plans progress are encouraged to visit rt66nm.org/join-or-renew.html. The New Mexico Route 66 Association has been dedicated to the education, promotion, and preservation of Historic Route 66 in New Mexico since 1989, working tirelessly to support economic revitalization along its 604-mile stretch. As a 501(c)(3) organization, their commitment has helped keep the legacy of the Mother Road alive for future generations.  |
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