Celebrating the Mother Road(s)

“Route 66 holds a unique and irreplaceable place in the cultural and economic heritage of Albuquerque, the State of New Mexico, and the American Southwest,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “This plaque will help visitors appreciate not only the significance of this historic alignment, but also the contributions of civil engineers to our society.”

Originally commissioned in 1926, Route 66 – also known as the “Mother Road” – passed through Albuquerque along two distinct alignments over the course of its history. The earlier alignment traveled along 4th Street NW through historic neighborhoods within the Rio Grande corridor. The later, and better-known alignment followed Central Avenue through the heart of the city, creating Route 66's legendary urban character. The intersection of Central Avenue and 4th Street NW is therefore a singularly meaningful geographic point: it is the precise location where these two storied alignments of America's most iconic highway meet, making it one of the most historically significant sites along the entire Route 66 corridor.

“Route 66 is one of the most famous roads on the planet,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela. “The engineering that went into it is admired by millions of people.”

The City of Albuquerque is deeply committed to preserving and celebrating the historic character of Central Avenue and the surrounding neighborhoods. The Planning Department actively supports initiatives that enhance public understanding of our city's architectural, transportation, and cultural heritage. A commemorative plaque at this crossroads will serve as a lasting and prominent reminder of Albuquerque's role in the story of Route 66 – one that will benefit residents, scholars, and the thousands of travelers who visit our city each year in search of that enduring highway experience.