SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner secured nearly $320,000 in grant funding to boost tourism in Springfield.

“Investing in tourism boosts the local economy and creates more jobs while uplifting the community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “With this funding, we have a great opportunity to showcase Route 66 and its ties to Springfield and Central Illinois.”

Administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, a total of $4 million was awarded to five grantees through the Route 66 Grant Program to help promote, develop, preserve and educate visitors about the Illinois Route 66 corridor in preparation for its 100th anniversary in 2026.

The Springfield Illinois Convention and Visitors Bureau received $300,000 for four projects that will further highlight Route 66 sites, making them more appealing and desirable to visit. The funding will support and promote tourism for the Route 66 100th anniversary by offering visitors a legendary experience along with a deeper look at the history and culture of the region.

In addition, the bureau received nearly $20,000 to contract with the Pharmacy Gallery & Art Space to secure space for a free exhibition that will showcase Bob Waldmire’s distinctive artistic style, including his detailed maps and vibrant artwork that captures the spirit of the historic Mother Road from Illinois to California.

The full list of this round’s grant recipients can be found here.