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City outlines Route 66 centennial projects, schedules Mount Vernon Bridge ribbon cutting
Summary
City staff updated the commission on Route 66 centennial preparations for November 2026, including signage, La Plaza Park design work, Gutierrez baseball field improvements, grant opportunities, and a planned ribbon-cutting for the Mount Vernon Bridge.
City staff told the Parks & Recreation Commission that planning for the Route 66 centennial in November 2026 is underway, with signage, park improvements and a bridge reopening scheduled as part of the corridor's revitalization.
"We have quite a bit of efforts happening across the city with revitalizing the corridor of Route 66 in preparation of the centennial, which is November, 2026," a department director said during the meeting. Staff said projects include design work for La Plaza Park (an architectural contract expected to go to council in early September) and upgrades to Gutierrez baseball field.
Staff also described small grant opportunities that would support signage and historical interpretation along the corridor, noting grant awards in the range of $2,500 to $10,000 and a September 30 application deadline for at least one opportunity. The department said it will refine project scopes and return with specifics at a future meeting.
The Mount Vernon Bridge reopening and ribbon cutting is scheduled for this Saturday, with the speaking program beginning at 9:30 a.m. Staff advised attendees that many streets will be closed and recommended parking at the Metrolink station parking structure; the ribbon cutting and procession will occur at the base of the bridge following the speaking program.
Staff noted the centennial work will include interpretive signage and that final design contracts will be brought to council for approval. No council votes were taken at this commission meeting; staff will return with contract details and any grant-application outcomes in future reports.
