Peoria Standard

Yesterday, the House Natural Resources Committee gave unanimous approval to Congressman LaHood's proposed legislation, H.R. 4338 - Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act. This bill aims to designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail, which could enhance economic and historic development across communities and states along this well-known route.

"Route 66 is a vital and historic transportation artery that connects America’s heartland to the west," stated Rep. LaHood. "The Mother Road provides powerful economic development tools for communities throughout Illinois, creating jobs and opportunities for residents of the 16th District and beyond. Designating Route 66 as a National Historic Trail would provide this highway with a permanent support structure to preserve and promote Route 66 for future generations. I applaud the House Natural Resources Committee for unanimously passing my bill and urge the House to swiftly bring it to the floor."

House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman expressed his support following the committee's decision: "Route 66 is one of America’s iconic highways and is part of the fabric of our great nation," he said. "Congressman LaHood’s Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act will ensure this classic piece of American history can be enjoyed and appreciated well into the future."

Route 66 stretches approximately 2,400 miles across eight states, starting in Chicago, moving through Grundy, Livingston, and McLean County in Illinois’ 16th Congressional district, before ending in Santa Monica, California. With its passage out of the Natural Resources Committee, H.R. 4338 is now set to proceed to the full House of Representatives for further consideration.