Oklahoma City, OK – The Town of Canute has been awarded $695,000 through the Oklahoma Route 66 Revitalization Grant Program, state officials confirmed Thursday morning during the Oklahoma Route 66 Commission’s second quarter meeting.

The funding will support several restoration and beautification projects aimed at enhancing Canute’s stretch of the Mother Road ahead of the Route 66 centennial celebration in 2026. Key projects include:

• Renovating the historic Village building into a tourism center and market for local artisans

• Restoring the iconic Cotton Boll lighted sign

• Cosmetic improvements to the town’s vintage DX and Texaco service stations

• Resurfacing the Washita Motel sign

The grant is part of Oklahoma’s $6.6 million annual investment to preserve and promote Route 66 communities. With more than 400 miles of drivable Route 66—more than any other state—Oklahoma is set to lead the national celebration of the highway’s 100th birthday.

Chaired by Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell, the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission is spearheading the effort, coordinating statewide events and funding key preservation initiatives.

Canute’s upgrades are expected to drive tourism and economic activity while honoring the town’s deep ties to America’s most famous highway.