US Government Awards Multiple Grants to Improve Route 66

For travelers planning on hitting the road this summer, several states with the historic Route 66 running through them have received federal support to improve tourism along the iconic highway.

According to Travel + Leisure, the United States Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provided several federal grants as part of the National Scenic Byways Program.

The money will be used to develop and enhance sites along Route 66, focusing on future transportation and tourism trends.

“FHWA is proud to award these grants that will help make travel safer, provide more enjoyable access, and support local businesses along scenic byways across the country,” administrator Shailen Bhatt told Travel + Leisure.

“Scenic routes provide myriad ways to explore the United States, and it’s no wonder that since its inception in 1992, the National Scenic Byways Program has received broad support from Members of Congress, State and local officials and the public,” Bhatt continued.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced the state awarded $3.7 million in funding to seven recipients for the development of tourism, education, preservation and promotion leading up to the 100th Anniversary of Route 66 in 2026.