TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa city leaders and the Tulsa Route 66 Commission announced the beginning of a new grant program Thursday.
The Route 66 Commission formally announced the Route 66 Neon Sign Grant Program Thursday at Mother Road Market on Lewis Avenue in midtown Tulsa. Officials say $40,000 a year will be givent to business owners interested in new neon signs.
Rhys Martin, commission chairman, told FOX23 special zoning along Tulsa's portion of Route 66 makes it easier for businesses to install neon signage than in any other parts of the city after a special overlay was established for the area.The City of Tulsa approved the Route 66 Overlay District zoning in 2018, which led to the new grant they expect to enhance and revitalize the authentic Route 66 through the promotion of its historic signage in Tulsa.
The city's matching contribution will be 50 percent of the eligible cost of the sign, but will not exceed $10,000. Sign eligible for the grants will have at least 25 percent neon or alternative LED lighting.
Martin said the grants are first-come-first-serve, but businesses looking for the funds will have to make a presentation of their plans to the commission and will only get their 50% dollar-for-dollar match once the project is finished.
For more information and how to apply for the grant visit https://www.cityoftulsa.org/NeonGrant
[ The Route 66 Commission will hold an in-depth workshop about the grant on April 23. ]