By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – It’s more than a sign that was unveiled in bitter cold temperatures on Monday in downtown Bloomington.

The Route 66 Experience Hub at the northeast corner of Main and Jefferson Streets is intended to boost tourism.

The hub lights up at night, and at the press of the button, visitors can also hear the late Bobby Troup’s hit song about getting their kicks on the Chicago-to-California roadway.They’ll also learn about various attractions and the historic significance of Route 66,

Mayor Tari Renner believes the Experience Hub is an economic shot-in-the-arm for downtown, even though he acknowledges there’s a lot of work to do to revitalize the area.

“Any guide to Route 66 is going to have us on it, in addition to our visitors center, and this sign,” said Renner.

“We’re very, very proud of this. Of course, it’s consistent with the historic character of our downtown, and it’s Art Deco,” Renner added.

The executive director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, Bill Kelly, believes what was unveiled downtown is more than just a sign.

“There are people who are going to want to get their picture taken with it. One of the things about 66 travelers, they’re always looking for their own personal experience on the most famous road in the world,” Kelly said.

The Experience Hub cost $30,000. The city government’s share of the cost $7,500. The rest is paid for by the state government and the Federal Highway Administration.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]