Report Offers Guidance for Small Towns on Route 66 Centennial

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A new report offers guidance for small towns along Route 66 in Oklahoma on how to capitalize on the upcoming 100th anniversary of the historic highway. The report includes interviews with national experts on rural development and byways tourism, providing strategies for these communities to attract visitors and spur economic growth during the centennial celebration.

Why it matters

Route 66 has long been an iconic American road, but many of the small towns it passes through have struggled economically in recent decades. This report aims to help these communities leverage the Route 66 centennial to drive tourism, revitalize their downtowns, and create new economic opportunities for residents.

The details

The report, produced by a team of researchers, examines best practices from other historic byways and provides recommendations tailored to the unique needs and challenges facing small towns along Route 66 in Oklahoma. Key strategies include developing themed festivals and events, enhancing signage and wayfinding, and forging partnerships with state tourism agencies and Route 66 advocacy groups.

• The Route 66 centennial will be celebrated in 2026.

What’s next

The report will be distributed to local officials and community leaders in towns along the Oklahoma portion of Route 66 to help them begin planning for the centennial celebration.