Illinoisans with an interest in history and the Mother Road are encouraged to nominate themselves for open seats on the recently created Route 66 Centennial Commission.
The state holds the distinction of being the starting point for the highway, and has undertaken a number of historic preservation efforts to boost tourism along the state’s portion of Route 66. Proponents say the events will be fun, but also an economically important public service opportunity. The Commission’s 20 members will develop plans for celebrating the famous highway’s 100th anniversary, coming up in 2026.
The Governor, who signed legislation creating the commission in July, will appoint three public members; one of those members will lead the commission. Along with the Governor’s selections, eight appointments to the commission will be made by Senate and House majority and minority leaders. The president of the Route 66 Association of Illinois and the executive director of the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway, or their designees will also serve on the commission.
Rounding out the commission:
The Governor
The Secretary of the Department of Transportation
The Director of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
The Department of Natural Resources Director
The Director of the Office of Tourism
The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director
The Director of the State Archives
The commission will meet at least quarterly. Applications for gubernatorial appointments can be made online at https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/bac/Pages/NominateForm.aspx.