$6.6 million in grant funding available for the investment on historic Route 66

The Oklahoma Route 66 Commission has began accepting applications for their statewide grant program. With a $6.6 million revolving fund, municipalities, counties, nonprofits and government entities can be awarded grants to support historic preservation. This was created by the Oklahoma Legislature to revitalize and restore Oklahoma’s Route 66 stretch.  

“The Oklahoma Route 66 Grant program is an opportunity to bring new life to Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66,” said Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell.  

With 52% of sales tax collected in Oklahoma from communities along Route 66, the centennial celebration of the road turning 100 in 2026 brings a time to invest in unique project ideas that will bring economic development to Oklahoma. Eligibility for the Oklahoma Route 66 Grant is determined by projects that support historic preservation or promote economic development along Route 66. These projects may involve capital investments and/or a very limited number of promotional purposes. Possible project examples include placemaking, facility enhancement, preservation efforts, new construction, planning, research and signage. 

Applicants seeking the Oklahoma Route 66 Grant must submit requests ranging from $25,000 to $2 million. The Oklahoma Route 66 Commission, consisting of nine commissioners, will review applications and select projects based on specified criteria.  

The Oklahoma Legislature passed a House bill in May 2022, establishing the Oklahoma Route 66 Commission with the $6.6 million dollar per year fund through the Centennial of Route 66 in 2026. 

Projects will be evaluated with consideration given to elements of historic preservation, new construction or those with the highest potential for audience attraction, community enhancement and sales tax generation. 

All applications must include a narrative addressing four criteria. Evaluation of applications will focus on the “project description,” supported by details, maps, images or visual aids pertinent to the project. The "project impact" category assesses the anticipated effects on the community, tourism and the entirety of Route 66. The "organizational structure" criterion considers organizational capacity, partnering entities and project sustainability maintenance. The "budget" criterion evaluates the overall cost clarity, including any matching components. 

The application period closes on Friday, Feb. 2, 2024, at 5 p.m. Grant oversight will be administered by the Oklahoma Route 66 Commission.