Like many other central Illinois communities along Route 66, the City of Lincoln is working hard to prepare for this year's centennial celebration. 

Lincoln Mayor Tracy Welch explains that the City was awarded a grant of over $400,000 by the Logan County Tourism Bureau and the Illinois Tourism Department. These dollars will be used to enhance the Rt. 66 Museum that they are working on. 

While the City's Rt. 66 celebration efforts consist mostly of the museum, and Mayor Welch is encouraging the community to plan and participate in community events to honor the milestone. He notes that the City is planning a Fourth of July Parade for America 250, which goes hand-in-hand. 

In the museum's building, there will also be an economic development incubator. The Mayor says things are starting to get moving on that front as they work to bring occupants into the building. 

Mayor Welch feels that the community is excited to welcome tourists into the community to celebrate the milestone. He feels that towns along Rt. 66 should be working together to represent central Illinois well.

The Route 66 Museum in Lincoln is set to open on May 1st.