The City of El Reno, Oklahoma, recently announced it had landed a $1.2 million grant from the state’s Route 66 Commission to restore a historic gas station.
“This Route 66 project aims to enhance the appeal of Route 66 for both locals and visitors and will prepare Downtown El Reno for the Route 66 Centennial in 2026,” a Facebook post from the city states.
The gas station is at Sunset Drive (aka Route 66) and Choctaw Avenue, a prominent corner that includes U.S. 81.
A report in the El Reno Tribune (subscription required) contained more details from city manager Matt Sandridge on what was called an “eyesore”:
Sandidge called the gas station a “hidden gem” on Route 66.
He said he had been in contact with the artist who created the massive mural that covers the east side of the structure.
Plans are being made to refresh the artwork which is expected to become a photo opportunity for Route 66 travelers. […]
Sandidge said a separate grant that would help create a more attractive and user-friendly Petree and Mother Road Plaza was not accepted in this round of grant funding. He said the city will resubmit that application in July when the second round of grant funding opens. […]
Sandidge said the idea is to make the Mother Road Plaza and Petree Plaza more connected and inviting for people to gather. […]
Ideas for the revitalization of the 120 S. Choctaw corner include working with local classic car clubs like the El Reno Cruisers to display vintage vehicles in the bays of the filling station. The metal doors on the bays now are expected to be replaced with glass.
The Route 66 Revitalization Grant Program in Oklahoma offered an initial $6.6 million in funding this year. More grants are expected to be announced.
(Artist’s rendering of the revitalized gas station in El Reno, Oklahoma)