Route 66 East Gateway Sign Lights Up Tonight
The new landmark brightens Albuquerque’s historic Mother Road.
ALBUQUERQUE – Route 66 Centennial celebrating continues with new dazzle along Albuquerque’s East Central. On Wednesday, July 8, at 9 p.m. the Department of Municipal Development (DMD) will light the new East Gateway sign at Central and Tramway. The public is invited to watch from the south parking lot by the PNC Bank (13140 Central SE).
“This sign will be a new icon in Albuquerque that combines art and engineering while recognizing the importance of neon to historic Route 66,” said DMD Director Jennifer Turner.
The project, funded by a $328,800 Destination Forward grant from the New Mexico Tourism Department, was developed with community input and collaboration with City departments and creative partners. This landmark public art installation celebrates Albuquerque’s neon heritage and cultural identity.
Wilson & Company produced the initial design analysis report using funds from the GO bond set-aside for District 9 community enhancements. They also finalized the architectural and engineering design at a cost of $10,665, similarly funded. The estimated construction cost was $328,800, covered by the same grant from the New Mexico Department of Tourism's Destination Forward program, which was applied for and awarded by City Council staff in 2024.
"I am ecstatic to light up the East Central skies with this community-led and iconic sign! I started this project four years ago to create a focal point and sense of place for the East Gateway. I am grateful to the City's Department of Municipal Development, the New Mexico Department of Tourism, and everyone who helped with our vision,” says District 9 City Councilor Renee Grout, “and I can’t thank Zeon Signs enough for taking that vision off paper and turning it into reality."