The Route 66 Corridor Preservation Program announced six grants this year totaling about $165,000 to varying historic preservation, research, oral history, interpretative and educational projects.
I noticed the grant awards this year were capped at $30,000. Still, 30 grand is 30 grand.
Here are the grant awards:
Round Barn siding repair in Arcadia, Oklahoma
Applicant: Arcadia Historical and Preservation Society Inc.
NPS grant: $30,000; cost-share match: $79,850
Funds will assist with re-siding the 1898 barn, using materials and methods used historically to create its curved form.
“Albuquerque Neon: The Stories Behind the Signs” video series
Applicant: City of Albuquerque
NPS grant: $30,000; cost-share .atch: $52,122
Grant funds will support the production of a video series that documents Albuquerque’s Route 66 neon signs and their stories. The project will approach neon signs as works of art and modern architecture, vital landmarks and artifacts that tell us about the city and nation. Themes will include design evolution, sign preservation, creative processes used to make neon and neon’s impact on Albuquerque art, culture and commerce.
Route 66 Connected research project – Phase 2 in New Mexico
Applicant: independent researcher
NPS grant: $28,840; Cost-share match: $29,354
This project will build upon a 2022 NPS grant award to continue to explore New Mexico Route 66 to provide a realistic and comprehensive view of the cultural, social and economic narratives of the Mother Road and how they are reflected in its contemporary reality. By examining the historic commercial properties still in operation, the project will undertake archival research and photographic survey of their tangible architectural legacy and current use, Route 66 iconography and ethnic features from a cultural anthropological perspective. Phase I of this work has culminated in the creation of a photographic collection, a detailed database and a report to be archived at the University of New Mexico Center for Southwest Research. The current phase will develop, finalize and release an online, public exhibition.
Nomad Motel roof restoration in Seligman, Arizona
Applicant: private owner
NPS grant: $30,000; Cost-share match: $30,000
The historic Nomad Motel, a 30-room motel that has been in continuous operation since 1964, became part of Romney Hotels International and was renamed the Romney Motel. One of several mid-century motels along Route 66 in Seligman, it now is known as the Postcard Motel and contributes to the National Register of Historic Places listing, the Seligman Commercial Historic District. New owners are restoring the motel to retain as many historic features as possible while introducing modern amenities and hospitality standards.
Road Runner’s Retreat neon sign restoration, Phase 3, in Chambless California
Applicant: private owner
NPS grant: $17,000; Cost-share match: $18,246
The owners are actively envisioning a new future for the property, including the restoration of its iconic sign. Grant funds will support the third and final phase to restore the sign to full operating condition.
Roy’s Motel & Cafe septic system rehabilitation in Amboy, California
Applicant: private owner
NPS grant: $30,000; Cost-share match: $172,000
Fuel and limited-food services have been restored at the gas station, and plans are afoot to restore other buildings and services. Grant funds will assist with the upgrade and replacement of the septic system to support cafe and public restroom operations and to support the future development of the motel lobby and cottages.
Since 2001, the program has awarded 175 projects a total of $2.72 million with $4.36 million in cost-share matches, totaling $7.08 million in public-private investment toward the revitalization and commemoration of the Route 66 corridor.
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