How the National Trust Is Helping to Keep Route 66 Alive

When you think of Route 66, you probably imagine neon lights, classic motels, vintage diners, and the open road stretching across America. But preserving all the magic and history of the Mother Road takes more than just nostalgia — it takes real support. That’s where the National Trust for Historic Preservation steps in.

For years, the National Trust has played a critical role in protecting and celebrating Route 66. Here’s how they’re making a real difference:

🏛️ Why Route 66 Matters to the National Trust

Route 66 isn’t just a road — it’s a national treasure. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, it's a symbol of American freedom, migration, innovation, and adventure.

Recognizing its importance, the National Trust has worked tirelessly to preserve the history, culture, and communities that make Route 66 a one-of-a-kind experience.

In 2007, the National Trust officially declared Route 66 as one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places — a call to action to save the businesses, landmarks, and roadside attractions that were disappearing under the pressures of time and development.

💸 Funding Preservation Through Grants

One of the biggest ways the National Trust supports Route 66 is through grant funding.

• Preserve Route 66 Legacy Business Grant Fund:Launched to help small businesses along the route, this fund supports critical repairs, marketing efforts, and long-term sustainability — with a strong focus on businesses from historically underrepresented communities.

• Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program Advocacy:The National Trust has been a leading voice in pushing for federal funding programs like the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program, which has awarded millions of dollars to preservation projects along the highway.

These grants have helped save everything from vintage gas stations to art deco theaters to historic motels, ensuring that the authentic spirit of the road remains for generations to come.

🗺️ Advocating for Route 66 as a National Historic Trail

The National Trust is also a driving force behind the effort to designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail.

This designation would bring national recognition and permanent federal support to the Mother Road — a huge win for preservation efforts. The Trust has mobilized thousands of advocates, hosted awareness campaigns, and worked with lawmakers to push this initiative forward.

Although it hasn’t passed yet, momentum continues to grow, and the National Trust remains deeply committed to making it a reality.

🎉 Supporting Communities, Events, and Tourism

Beyond physical preservation, the National Trust supports the people and communities that make Route 66 vibrant.

They’ve backed local festivals, cultural events, and tourism initiatives that keep Route 66 a living, breathing experience — not just a relic of the past. By investing in economic revitalization, the National Trust helps ensure that the towns along Route 66 continue to thrive.

🚘 The Road Ahead

Thanks to the leadership and passion of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Route 66’s future looks bright. Their efforts remind us that preservation isn’t just about saving old buildings — it’s about keeping the spirit of adventure, creativity, and connection alive.

As the world gears up for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026, the work of the National Trust is more important than ever. Whether you’re a business owner, a road tripper, or a lover of Americana, we all have a role to play in keeping the Mother Road rolling strong.

Stay tuned to On The 66 for more updates on grants, events, and ways you can get involved in preserving the legend! 🌟🛻