It’s still 10 years away, but an Illinois lawmaker wants to set up a commission to help celebrate Route 66’s 100th anniversary in 2026.
State Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) introduced House Bill 6624 that would form an Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission. Butler revealed his proposal Thursday — the day before the highway marked its 90th birthday.
More from Butler’s news release:
“Route 66 is the most famous road in the world and Illinois lays claim to where the Mother Road begins,” said Rep. Butler. “The centennial of Route 66 will truly be an international celebration of this famous strip of pavement. Illinois is uniquely positioned to welcome and entertain travelers from around the world who want to experience the magic of our scenic byway.
“In an effort to plan accordingly, I believe the State should take a lead role in planning a year-long celebration that would foster activities and commemorations to attract people to our 300-mile stretch of 66. That is why I am introducing this legislation today.”
As introduced, the Illinois Route 66 Centennial Commission will consist of 20 members, three of whom shall be appointed by the Governor and two each from the Speaker of the House, Minority Leader of the House, President of the Senate, and Minority Leader of the Senate. Additionally, there will be nine ex-officio members representing various groups or state agencies, including the Executive Director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway.
The legislation states that the Centennial is a great opportunity “to celebrate the important history of Route 66 in Illinois through commemorative, educational, and community events. The centennial celebration may include events about the history of how local communities grew and changed with the construction of Route 66; the cultural impact of Route 66 in the United States and internationally; the portrayal of Route 66 in music, artwork, and folklore; and how to maintain the mystique and appeal of Route 66 for future generations.” The purpose of the Commission is to help guide these activities in Illinois.
Expect more of these types of proposals to pop as the 100th anniversary approaches.
The Route 66: The Road Ahead Initiative is taking steps to help reinvigorate the Mother Road, including having it declared a National Historic Trail under the auspices of the National Park Service. (Route 66 News advocated for this idea in 2012.)
The more lawmakers Route 66 gains as advocates, the better chance the National Historic Trail proposal will be introduced, then approved by Congress and the president. Butler’s centennial commission is a small step, but an important one in the overall picture.
(Image of Ron Frazier’s Route 66 Reinterpreted Art Project entry via Flickr)
And we started talking about a Centennial Celebration for Los Angeles’ original western terminus about 18 months ago! After the success of the conference’s two days and the incredible presentations and discussions, I think we are on to something good, too! (And the 90 degree weather was actually TOO much!)
It’s never too early to start planning. Bully for Rep. Butler!