By WMBD-TV
BLOOMINGTON – Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Wednesday announced seven grants totaling $3.3 million coming to the Route 66 Grant Program.
According to a news release, $180,400 will come to Bloomington-Normal Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. The money will support murals, EV chargers in Normal and Route 66 Centennial Signs.
“Like so many great things, Route 66 begins in Chicago, travels Illinois, and spreads across the country delighting millions and forming an essential part of our nation,” said Governor JB Pritzker.
He continued, “These investments will enhance visitor experiences and build on existing attractions to ensure Illinois and Route 66 remain vibrant elements of American culture and tradition for many years to come.”
In Illinois, Route 66 is 300 miles long and one of the most famous roads in America. Route 66 was designated in 1926 and opened the western part of the country to anyone who could drive.
The full list of recipients can be found below:
| Grantee | Award Amount | Project Description |
| Bloomington-Normal Area Convention & Visitors Bureau | $180,400 | Support the research, design, and installation of murals in Lexington, Bloomington, and McLean. Support the installation of EV chargers in Normal and the creation of Route 66 Centennial signs. |
| Choose Chicago | $142,500 | Support the organizing efforts for the Route 66 Classic Car show and by developing tours in Chicago |
| Discover Downstate Illinois | $50,763 | Support the Celebration of Route 66 Festival, featuring the Midwest Drag Racing Series and various musical performances. |
| Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau | $892,000 | Support the design, engineering, and installation of electric signs and EV stations along with renovations to the Ariston Cafe and a mural project at the Route 66 Skyview Drive. |
| Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau | $600,000 | Support the Route 66 statewide marketing and promotions, including projects like the Route 66 Scenic Byway Visitors Guide, festivals, and more. |
| Heritage Corridor Destinations | $1,250,000 | Enhance Route 66 exhibits and museums, including signage, kiosk, and EV stations. |
| Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau | $232,000 | Development and installation of structures for the Illinois Fair Grounds Route 66 Experience. Enhance the World’s Largest Route 66 sign as well as the construction and installation of other classic neon signs throughout Springfield. Support the preservation of oral history and audio recordings for future Route 66 attractions and preservation efforts of the Lincoln Information Center. |
