SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Federal, state and local leaders gathered today in Springfield - the birthplace of Route 66 - to kick off the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration. The event honored a century of history on America's "Mother Road" while highlighting major infrastructure improvements now underway along its modern successor, Interstate 44.

Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster recognized the national significance of Route 66 and praised Missouri's progress on I-44 through the Forward 44 program, noting the strong partnership driving the work.

"Under the leadership of President Trump and U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, we are getting this country building again by getting back to basics," said McMaster. "Route 66 is more than just a highway. It's a symbol of the transformative power of transportation and how infrastructure can shape a nation. Together with Missouri, we are committed to delivering a transportation system that works for Americans and there's no better place to do it than right here on Route 66."

Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe highlighted the cultural and economic importance of Route 66 and emphasized how the same pioneering spirit moves Missouri forward today.

"Just like 100 years ago, Missouri benefits by serving as a crossroads for commerce, travel, agriculture and opportunity," Gov. Kehoe said. "Missouri may be the historic birthplace of Route 66, but the work happening on I-44 and projects across our state reflects our commitment to the future. As we celebrate our past, we are committed to improving Missouri's infrastructure for the future."

Missouri Department of Transportation Director Ed Hassinger reflected on both the legacy and the future of the legendary route.

"Sometimes a road becomes more than a road," Hassinger said. "Route 66 is an American icon. It was a passageway to opportunity, a conduit for national expansion, a place where families found recreation, where ideas traveled and where communities came together. Today we celebrate where this road has taken us, and also where we're headed next."

MoDOT emphasized the ongoing work to widen and bring other improvements to what's now I-44 in Springfield between Missouri Route 13 (Kansas Expressway) and U.S. Route 65. The active project will replace three bridges and enhance pedestrian and trail access. Construction is scheduled for completion in May 2027. More information is available at Forward 44: Springfield Improvements | Missouri Department of Transportation.

For more information about the Route 66 Centennial, visit: route66centennial.org.