Destination Oklahoma. With all of the Route 66 centennial projects and initiatives being developed in the Sooner State, fans of that storied highway will be focused on destination Oklahoma.

Destination Oklahoma

An argument could easily be made that Route 66 is the most famous highway in the world. There are Route 66 associations, and companies, that organize events and tours in the Czech Republic, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, and other countries.

Obviously that level of interest translates into dollars and cents, and economic development. So, is it surprising to learn that some communities and states are looking toward the highways fast approaching centennial with an infectious enthusiasm?

In Oklahoma a coalition of leaders began developing centennial related projects several years ago. They correctly recognized the potential for economic development, for historic district revitalization, and for building a sense of community. As a result of these pioneering efforts, destination Okahoma is fast becoming the rallying cry for an international legion of enthusiasts.

Eyes On Tulsa

As other states and communities begin making plans for Route 66 centennial initiatives, eyes are on Tulsa. As Cyrus Avery, proclaimed the father of Route 66, was based in Tulsa, this seems rather fitting.

The city is the epicenter for an array of innovative projects and initiatives. The Tulsa Route 66 Neon Sign Grant is but one example. This grant program for businesses on Route 66 within Tulsa city limits has resulted in the restoration, or installation of, nearly 100 signs along the highway corridor.

Another manifestation of the renaissance in Tulsa is the annual AAA Route 66 Road Fest. This one-of-a-kind celebration is an opportunity to experience the history, the magic, and the excitement of Route 66 in one location.

Cyrus Avery Plaza on the Arkansas River is just one manifestation of the Vision 2025 initiative.This project when completed will be transformative for the area when fully completed.

A Team of Partners

The incredible success of initiatives along the Route 66 corridor in Oklahoma are an examaple of what can be accomplished by a team of partners. The Oklahoma Route 66 Association, with Rhys Martin at the helm has played a crucial role in the building of these partnerships.

This past Sunday on Coffee With Jim, the audio podcast from Jim Hinckley’s America, I had an opportunity to talk with Kerry Wiseman Barrick. Barrick is with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Shis is also a member of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association.

We discussed the power of this network of partners. We also discussed Route 66 centennial initiatives. Comments received since the podcast leave little doubt. This conversation, fueled by Barrick’s enthusiasm, has lit the fire under some community organizers.

Acclaimed author Michael Wallis once quipped that Route 66 is a linear community. But as we draw closer to the centennial, and the network of coopereative partnerships grows, a more apt descriptor might be America’s longest small town.