Route 66 Commission accepting ideas for anniversary celebration

Posted on February 15, 2024
The Commission is looking for submissions of projects, programs or events that can be for national or single-state activities. (Photo Courtesy of Rhys Martin via National Park Service)

By WMBD-TV

BLOOMINGTON – The U.S. Route 66 Centennial Commission is accepting ideas to celebrate the iconic routes 100th anniversary.

According to Rod Reid, the Chair of the Route 66 Centennial Commission, Congress established the commission to oversee the celebration of the 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.

The Commission is looking for submissions of projects, programs or events that can be for national or single-state activities.

“We are calling on individuals, organizations, and communities to submit their innovative ideas, to make this event truly transformational,” Reid stated.

The four areas of focus for Submitted ideas include:

  • Commemorative & Publications ideas that would recognize the role Route 66 played in the history of the U.S. and publicly honor the road and the people associated with it.
  • Infrastructure ideas that would enhance the overall Route 66 experience.
  • Ideas for events and celebrations that would involve the public in unique and fun events that would mark the 100th anniversary of the route.
  • International and national marketing ideas that would promote tourism.

The commission is made up of members from all eight states along Route 66. The commission’s working group will select appropriate ideas, which will be elevated to the full commission, which will decide which ideas to send to Congress with their approval.

“The Route 66 Centennial is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the cultural significance of this historic road,” Reid stated. “We look forward to receiving creative ideas that will shape the celebration and maintain the spirit of the highway for generations to come.”

Anyone who wants to learn more or has an idea they would like to submit can go to the Route 66 Centennial website.

WMBD-TV can be reached at [email protected].

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