Bill could set Route 66 as national historic trail

A bill in Congress aims to help businesses along Route 66.

Rep. Darin LaHood introduced a bill, Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act (H.R.4338) that would designate Route 66 as a national historic trail. The designation would free up resources like employees, technical services and economic development assistance to preserve the highway.

Supporters say it would help struggling towns along the route attract tourists. LaHood first introduced the bill in 2017 and again a year later, but it died in committee both times.

The 100th anniversary of Route 66 is next year.