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Commission discusses renaming Andy Devine Avenue to Route 66; considers dual signage and public outreach
Summary
The commission reviewed a proposal from the Heritage Preservation Commission to rename Andy Devine Avenue to Route 66 for the 2026 centennial. Commissioners expressed mixed views, raised concerns about local traditions, costs to businesses and emergency services, and suggested dual signage and improved wayfinding instead of a full name change.
Commissioners on the Economic Development Advisory Commission discussed a Heritage Preservation Commission recommendation to rename Andy Devine Avenue as Route 66 in Kingman, a proposal driven by preparations for the Route 66 centennial in 2026 and concern that mapping apps do not always label the historic route.
Planning staff noted the Heritage Preservation Commission had passed a motion supporting renaming Andy Devine Avenue to Route 66 after participation in an interstate Route 66 summit. Staff said visitors and local tourism businesses frequently ask "where is Route 66?" and that inconsistent wayfinding on interstate interchanges and online maps contributed to visitor confusion.
Several commissioners urged caution about removing the Andy Devine name, which they described as part of local tradition and annual community events. "I'd hate to erase it because it would just probably fade out," one commissioner said, citing long-standing local celebrations tied to the Andy Devine name. Other commissioners proposed dual labeling — for example "Andy Devine Avenue / Route 66" — or prominently adding Route 66 wayfinding on freeway ramps and in online listings instead of a complete renaming.
Staff and commissioners noted that a permanent street name change would be a lengthy, potentially costly process. It would require coordination with emergency services, replacement of signs on interstate ramps (which staff indicated can be expensive), and updates to businesses' addresses and marketing collateral. Staff recommended further study and discussion with the City Council and ADOT and said they would bring additional information, including the practical implications for mapping services and the time and cost to update wayfinding.
A newspaper-conducted poll cited during the meeting showed a split sample (about 55% preferring to retain Andy Devine, 40% favoring Route 66), though staff cautioned the sample was small. Commissioners asked staff to prepare more information and consider options that preserve local heritage while improving visitor wayfinding. Staff said the item may move to City Council for further consideration.
