Interactive Route 66 sign installed in Lawrence County

New sign, one of many along the historic roadway
 
A new sign has been installed in Lawrence County along with other locations along Route 66 in order to celebrate the upcoming 100th anniversary of the road that once connected the entire United States. The historic road—once a main thoroughfare across the U.S.—was officially opened Nov. 11, 1926.
The 12-foot by 10-foot landmark is located at the intersection of Highway 96 and Highway 39, between Mt. Vernon and Miller. The project stems from a statewide initiative funded by the Missouri Route 66 Commission, which was established by the lieutenant governor’s office. The aim of the organization is to honor the history of the once great passage. In order to do that, an effort was made to place these towering signs across the span of Route 66.
The project was made possible thanks to the collaboration of multiple entities, including the Lawrence County Commission, the Mt. Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce, the Miller Lions Club, and State Representative Mitch Boggs. The sign will be continually maintained by the Miller Lions Club.
“We’re thrilled to have this interactive Route 66 sign in our county,” said Brittni Bates, Executive Director of the Mt. Vernon Area Chamber of Commerce. “It not only commemorates the history and heritage of Route 66 but also brings new opportunities for tourism, community pride and economic growth. It’s a wonderful way to invite travelers to experience all that Lawrence County has to offer.”
The sign is not just for looks; it also boasts interactive elements that look to educate the community and travelers alike about the communities that helped to make Route 66 the historic icon that it is today.
A ribbon cutting will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14. Members of the community, travelers, and Route 66 enthusiasts are invited to take part in the unveiling of this landmark.