Walsh Appointed to Serve on Route 66 Centennial Commission

JOLIET, Ill. – State Rep. Lawrence “Larry” Walsh, Jr., D-Elwood, has been appointed to serve on the Route 66 Centennial Commission, which will help organize official events celebrating the historic highway’s 100th anniversary.

“Route 66 is famous around the world and people visit from all over to travel it and see the sights,” Walsh said. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to be part of this commission and celebrate the history of the Mother Road.”

The Route 66 Centennial Commission is a bipartisan group of elected officials and appointees from the governor’s office and the various state agencies. They will meet quarterly to discuss the planning of official events, programs, and activities for the upcoming Route 66 centennial celebration in 2026. The commission will be overseen by the Illinois Office of Tourism and Walsh will serve on the commission. Walsh’s position on the commission is on a volunteer basis, which means he will not receive pay or reimbursements.

“Right now our state is the only one planning any sort of celebration for the Mother Road,” Walsh said. “Route 66 cuts right through our community which means when people come to enjoy this once in a lifetime they will be supporting our local economy.”