Route 66 Begins Its Revival in Tulsa
With Route 66 marking its 100th year, the Route 66 Commission in Tulsa is on a mission to preserve the essence of this iconic highway. They’ve rolled out a program offering subsidies for neon signs, leading to 84 new or restored signs along the Tulsa portion of the route.
Tulsa, Oklahoma – As preparations ramp up for the centenary of Route 66, the Tulsa Route 66 Commission is looking forward to what comes next.
In the evening, Tulsa’s historic Route 66 comes alive with vibrant neon signs that light up its 45 miles.
Michael Wallis, the founder of the Route 66 Alliance and recognized as the voice of the sheriff in Disney/Pixar’s film Cars, has devoted years to exploring and documenting Route 66.
“We see it as a winding museum,” Wallis shared, from his home just a block away from Cyrus Avery Centennial Plaza, highlighting the legacy of Silas Stevens Avery, the highway’s father.
Route 66 Historic Small Town Spurs Sightseeing
Known internationally as “America’s Main Street,” Route 66 encapsulates a significant part of American history, especially the westward expansion.
However, the rise of the interstate highway system in the late 20th century led to Route 66 being removed from the National Highway System, impacting businesses along the way.
Wallis is dedicated to reviving the future of Route 66 in Tulsa. “I was aware that over 85% of the roads were still intact,” he mentioned, clearly concerned about the highway’s diminishing presence.
After the freeway shutdown, many Tulsa businesses suffered. “When I was born, this area wasn’t exactly a point of pride for local residents,” noted Julia Figueroa, who manages Buck Atom’s Cosmic Curios.
Her shop stands out as one of the most colorful on Route 66 in Tulsa’s Meadow Gold District, complete with a large fiberglass statue to draw tourists.
To boost visitor numbers, the Tulsa Route 66 Commission has initiated a matching grant program for local businesses.
“We created the Neon Sign Grant,” said Ken Buzbee, Chairman of the Tulsa Route 66 Commission. This initiative assists businesses in acquiring new neon signs or restoring vintage ones.
“Neon was the first highway advertising,” Buzbee explained. “That’s how travelers found diners, motels, and other stops along those small roads.” Currently, there are 84 neon signs illuminating the Tulsa stretch of Route 66.
“Each new neon sign makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a neon metropolis,” Buzbee remarked.
Local residents expressed their fondness for the neon aesthetics, while businesses are optimistic about the future.
“I often drive through at night just to capture photos and observe people enjoying the neon glow,” Figueroa said.
Buzbee added that the next phase will include matching grants for the renovation of building facades along the route.
