I had the pleasure of meeting the fine folks from the California Route 66 State Association at Roadrunner Retreat's sign lighting in Amboy, California. Beth Murray of the association graciously agreed to my interview, and answer questions about how Route 66 State Associations work, and their overall importance to preserve what we know and love on Historic Route 66. This is from Beth, verbatim. Anything else you'd like to know, get in touch and I can reach back out.


-For those who are new to Route 66, can you explain what the state associations do, and why they’re so vital to preserving the history and spirit of the route?


The first Route 66 Association was formed by Angel Delgadillo in Seligman, Arizona, on February 18, 1987, shortly after Interstate 40 bypassed Seligman. Angel wanted travelers to know that his town was still vibrant, with plenty to see and do, and he encouraged folks to come off the interstate and visit.


Following his lead, the other Route 66 states soon formed their own associations. The California Historic Route 66 Association was established on June 2, 1991.


The construction of the interstate system bypassed countless small towns and businesses, putting many out of operation. In response, the Route 66 Associations have worked tirelessly to remind travelers that there is still a wealth of experiences waiting when they leave the interstate and travel the Mother Road.


These associations are made up of individuals with Route 66 running through their veins. Entirely volunteer-based, members dedicate countless hours—and often their own resources—to preserve, protect, and promote the Route. A substantial percentage of this work happens quietly behind the scenes: cleaning up properties, repainting old signs, repairing historic structures, and keeping the road’s legacy alive without a great deal of fanfare.

Associations host events, maintain memberships, and share their efforts through social media, highlighting what is happening in their state. It is an uphill battle—many of the buildings along the Route date back to the 1940s and 1950s and require constant care, and many of the proprietors who keep the Route’s spirit alive are aging as well.


To unify these efforts, The Road Ahead Partnership brings together representatives from each of the eight Route 66 states Associations, working collaboratively to support and sustain the entire road for generations to come.



-Beyond preservation, these associations are often the backbone for local tourism and small-town economies. Do you also provide guidance or support for struggling businesses along the route — helping them stay afloat or adapt?


The best way we can support businesses along Route 66 is by encouraging travelers to stop and spend money locally. While we realize it is not possible to spend at every stop, we encourage visitors to stay in authentic motels, dine in classic diners that have been serving travelers since the Route’s heyday, and buy plenty of souvenirs to remember their journey.


We also ask travelers to share their experiences with friends, coworkers, and family so that even more people are inspired to explore the Route.

Clear signage helps visitors know where the Route runs, and we promote the use of resources like the EZ 66 Guide and the two Route 66 travel apps now available.


We encourage everyone to join their local Route 66 association—a direct way to help support and preserve the businesses and attractions along the Mother Road.


Our information fairs highlight local businesses and attractions, while Route 66 passports—available in several states and at the national level—motivate travelers to stop and collect stamps from various locations.


Here in California, we are working closely with Visit California, local DMOs, and city and state legislators to promote tourism and ensure recognition of Route 66 businesses.


Education remains a key focus: helping people understand where the Route is located through the towns and communities is the first step. The next—and most important—is encouraging them to leave the interstate and experience the authentic and new Route 66 businesses that keep the spirit of the road alive.



-Grants have been a lifeline for many iconic Route 66 landmarks. Can you tell us more about how these grants work — who can apply, and how they help keep these historic places thriving?


There are two main types of grants: Matching and Non-Matching. A Matching Grant requires the recipient to raise an equal amount of funds, while a Non-Matching Grant does not.


In the past, grants have been offered by the National Park Service, but unfortunately, that source has been discontinued under the current administration. The National Trust for Historic Preservation offers two grants each year—both are non-matching. One of these grants is designed specifically for nonprofit businesses along Route 66, and both are capped at $10,000.


The Road Ahead Partnership also administers the Extraordinary Woman Grants funded by American Express, which support diverse communities, including people of color, and Native American woman in business. In addition, the American Express Restaurant Grant is available nationwide to 50 restaurants awarding them $50,000 each. 


In California, we have been awarded several grants in recent years totaling over $150,000. However, more funding is needed, and we continue to seek out additional opportunities.


Grants are essential to the revitalization of businesses along Route 66. Due to the age of many of these establishments and the rising costs of construction and labor, many owners of these priceless icons simply would not have the means to restore or maintain their properties without financial assistance.


Grants are available to businesses on Route 66 and the corridor of Route 66. Through social media and emails the association actively announces the grants being offered as they come available with access to forms and deadlines.


As an association, we encourage, support, and assist those businesses interested in applying for grants by sharing our knowledge and expertise—a service we proudly provide at no cost to the recipient. We look forward to helping even more businesses in the years to come.



How to support their efforts through membership-


Of course supporting the area independent businesses are the best thing a traveler can do. Though acquiring membership at any (or multiple) State Associations further supports preservation and the characters along The Mother Road. Links below.













Why Your Support Matters


  • They save endangered buildings.
  • They help mom-and-pop businesses survive.
  • They document stories before they disappear.
  • They connect travelers with the real heart of Route 66.
  • They host events that bring life — and revenue — back to small towns.


These folks aren’t corporations.

They’re volunteers, preservationists, photographers, historians, moms and dads, retirees, and travelers just like you — people who simply love the Mother Road and refuse to let it fade.


If you'd like to support my work-


My stunning coffee table book, Route 66 Roadscapes: Stories Through The Lens, features a curated collection of photographs taken along the Mother Road from 2022–2024. Inside you’ll find forgotten relics, fading remnants, vibrant neon, and classic automobiles waiting for rescue — all captured with the character and grit that make Route 66 timeless. It’s a visual journey through the soul of the Mother Road, preserved one frame at a time.