Oklahoma Route 66 was designated a National Scenic Byway, and Arizona’s Route 66 was given All-American Road status in an announcement by the U.S. Department of Transportation chief Ray LaHood on Friday.
LaHood said:
“By enriching the National Scenic Byways program with their own unique historical or aesthetic quality, these new additions help our national road system tell our country’s story. […] These routes continue to offer Americans exciting new opportunities to explore the nation – whether they travel close to home or across the country.” […]
The U.S. Department of Transportation recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.
With the announcement, 46 states now have Scenic Byways. Texas still remains a notable holdout.
Here’s Oklahoma’s listing on the site. Arizona’s Route 66 has already had Byways status for a while. Route 66 in New Mexico and Illinois also have Byways status, and Missouri’s section is expected to become one soon.
The All-American Road status is bestowed on particularly scenic routes.
The byways program enables participants to apply for federal tourism grants and other assistance.
UPDATE: The Kingman Daily Miner has a good analysis of Arizona’s All-American Road designation.