A clearinghouse of news and events about historic Route 66, the Mother Road.
Amarillo approves up to a $500,000 grant to restore three historic neon signs on Route 66
The Amarillo City Council accepted a grant of up to $500,000 from the Texas Historical Commission to restore three historic neon signs along that city’s Route 66 corridor.
This funding is specifically earmarked for projects in the Panhandle and is intended to preserve the unique character of these establishments, which are vital to the Route 66 tourism corridor.
City officials emphasized the importance of adhering to strict historical preservation standards, which necessitated the use of neon materials for the signs. Concerns were raised about the potential vulnerability of neon to weather damage, particularly hail.
In response, city representatives indicated they are exploring protective measures, such as clear plastic covers, to safeguard the signs while maintaining their historical integrity.
The grant includes a $145,000 match from the city and a 30-year easement to ensure the neon remains in good working order.
Initial estimates stated restoration of the signs would cost nearly $300,000, but that obviously could rise if the restoration needed is more extensive than anticipated.
A city official said they were exploring a second set of neon tubing in case the replacement breaks.
Route 66 Times reports Eastridge Lanes bowling alley opened in 1959, though a restaurant and children’s nursery were part of the complex at the time, as well.
The Cattleman’s Club has been around since 1952 and is considered one of Amarillo’s oldest watering holes.
The Nat is short for Amarillo Natatorium, which opened as a swimming pool along Route 66 in 1922. It was converted into a dance hall and performance venue by the mid-1920s. It transitioned from the big-band era to rock ‘n’ roll by hosting Tommy Dorsey, Bob Wills, Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Little Richard, Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly, Dixie Chicks and Joe Ely over the decades. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994, it now serves as an antique mall.
(Image of the Eastridge Lanes sign by Thomas Hawk; image of The Nat by Bradley Gordon; and image of the Cattleman’s Club sign by Stu Rapley, all via Flickr)
