Friends of Uptown Foundation Awarded $45,000 Oklahoma Route 66 Revitalization Grant

Friends of Uptown Foundation has been awarded a $45,000 grant from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce Route 66 Revitalization Grant Program to support the creation of a new Historic Uptown 23rd x Route 66 gateway mural and accompanying educational resources in the Uptown 23rd District.

The project will fund the design, installation, and long-term maintenance of a large-scale public mural welcoming visitors to Uptown 23rd along the original Route 66 corridor in Oklahoma City. In addition to the mural, the grant will support the development of a QR code–linked webpage featuring scholar-vetted historical content that highlights Uptown 23rd’s role in Route 66 history, civil rights in Oklahoma, and the district’s continued evolution as a cultural destination.

Located along NW 23rd Street, Uptown 23rd was one of Oklahoma City’s first major shopping districts outside of downtown and a thriving hub during Route 66’s peak years. Landmarks such as the Milk Bottle Building, Tower Theatre, and the Gold Dome continue to anchor the district’s identity today. The new gateway mural will visually tell this story while encouraging visitors to explore Uptown’s more than 70 locally owned businesses.

“This project allows us to honor Uptown’s history while investing in its future,” said Juliana Lopez, representing Friends of Uptown Foundation. “As we prepare for the Route 66 Centennial and increased tourism tied to events like FIFA World Cup 2026 and the Olympics, this mural will serve as both a welcoming landmark and a point of education for visitors and residents alike.”

The mural will be commissioned through a two-stage artist selection process, beginning with a public Request for Qualifications followed by a Request for Proposals from finalist artists. A dedicated Friends of Uptown Mural Committee will oversee artist selection, project planning, and coordination with the City of Oklahoma City and the Urban Design Commission to ensure the mural meets all city requirements.

The QR code–linked webpage will include original essays, primary source materials, historical photographs, and links to additional Route 66 resources, with a focus on Oklahoma City and NW 23rd Street. The site will also include information about the mural artist and opportunities for the public to support future beautification efforts through the Friends of Uptown Foundation Beautification & Mural Fund.

Friends of Uptown Foundation anticipates the mural will become a major photo opportunity and destination for Route 66 travelers, driving increased foot traffic, social media engagement, and economic activity throughout the district. Long-term maintenance will be supported through dedicated district funding and community donations to ensure the mural remains a lasting asset for Uptown 23rd.

Friends of Uptown Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting small businesses and restoring vibrancy and vitality to the Historic Uptown 23rd District, a key segment of Oklahoma City’s Route 66 corridor.

For updates on the project, artist calls, and installation timelines, visit uptown23rd.com or follow Uptown 23rd on social media @uptown23rd.