On Aug. 7, Mayor Tim Keller and other Albuquerque officials announced a partnership between the Department of Arts & Culture (DAC) and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA). According to a press release from the city, the Revamp Route 66: Sign Improvement Grant Program aims to invest $432,000 into a sign improvement project for Route 66 along Central Avenue in Albuquerque.
“Restoring the visual culture along our city’s own iconic stretch of Route 66 is not just preserving our unique history, it’s magnifying our status as a tourist destination,” said Mayor Keller, according to the press release. “This type of public/private investment in revitalization is a great example of how, working together, we are continuing to bring the promise of Albuquerque to fruition.”
According to the press release, the program is backed in part by funding set aside by Albuquerque City Councilor Klarissa Peña as designated by Resolution R-22-53. Funding will be administered by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency and distributed to property owners and businesses along Central Avenue for sign improvements including restoring signs to their original designs or transforming them into innovative architectural or artistic elements. While proposals requesting $100,000 are acceptable, the first round of distribution will prioritize grants below that amount.
“Central Avenue is Albuquerque’s most significant stretch of historic Route 66 and an important part of our city’s heritage,” said Councilor Klarissa Peña according to a press release. “As we approach its centennial celebration in 2026, it is imperative that we continue to bolster energy, economic impact, activation, and tourism along this road of historical significance.”
A panel comprised of city staff, public art, DAC, and MRA personnel, along with community specialists, will assess proposals. Proposals will be judged on criteria including historical significance, potential to enhance the streetscape, positive economic impact, and the potential likelihood of completion by November 2025, according to the press release.
Applications can be filled out and submitted online at https://www.cabq.gov/mra/revamp-route-66-sign-improvement. The deadline for applications is Oct. 15, 2023.