September 19, 2025

Duckworth, Cruz, Padilla, Schmitt, Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Designate Route 66 a National Historic Trail

 

[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joins U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Eric Schmitt (R-MO) in introducing a bipartisan bill to designate Route 66 as a National Historic Trail. Route 66 was established on November 11, 1926, and was one of the original highways in the United States Numbered Highway System. This bill would help protect its history and legacy and ensures that new and existing energy projects along Route 66 are protected.

“Route 66 is one of the most iconic highways in America and has played a tremendous role in our history and culture—connecting our country through travel, commerce and so much more,” said Duckworth. “Route 66 is an integral part of Illinois’s—and our nation’s—story, and I’m proud to help introduce this bipartisan legislation to help protect and commemorate this historic route for future generations.”

“Texas is proud to be home to part of the iconic Route 66, and I am honored to lead the effort in designating this highway as a historic trail,” said Cruz. “This bill is long overdue and will enshrine Route 66’s status as a National Historic Trail. I urge my colleagues to expeditiously advance this bill and send it to the President.”

“Generations of Americans have driven the 2,400 mile road from Illinois to California along Route 66, weaving through the Mojave Desert on their way to the iconic End of the Trail sign at the Santa Monica Pier,” said Padilla. “This overdue bipartisan effort would solidify Route 66’s place as a National Historic Trail, preserving the integrity of the trail and honoring its legacy as the Mother Road for American automobiles.”

“Route 66 is a vital and historic highway that connects the heartland of America to the West, creating jobs and economic opportunities in communities across Missouri,” said Schmitt. “Designating this iconic roadway as a National Historic Trail will provide the resources needed to ensure this historic route is preserved and protected for future generations to travel and enjoy.”

Companion legislation is being led in the House by U.S. Representative Darin LaHood (R-IL-16).

A copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website.

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