Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) supported the House’s passage of H.R. 66, a bill that would commemorate the centennial anniversary of Route 66 by creating a Route 66 Centennial Commission. This commission would recommend activities to honor the 100th anniversary of America’s first all-paved highway under the U.S. Highway System. The bill would also direct the U.S. Department of Transportation to prepare a plan to ensure Route 66 is preserved for future generations.

“Route 66 is a national treasure that has, for decades, attracted visitors to Missouri from all 50 states and countries throughout the world,” said Hartzler. “A drive through Missouri on ‘America’s Main Street’ takes travelers on a road dotted with motels, gas stations, and restaurants of yesteryear, helping sightseers to relive our country’s past. It is with great anticipation that I join countless Missourians and Americans in looking forward to the centennial anniversary of Route 66 in 2026, and this bill will help us properly celebrate this historic time.”

Historic Route 66, established in 1926, runs 2,400 miles through eight states – including Missouri – from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. In Missouri, the “Mother Road” winds its way from St. Louis in the east to Joplin at the western edge of the state, running through three counties – Pulaski, Laclede, and Webster – in Missouri’s Fourth Congressional District.

The bill now goes to the Senate for its consideration.

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