Submitted by Kristin Weaver
The MidPoint Route 66 Association, spearheaded by founder Eddy Gochenour owner of the Chicken Shack,proudly announces its formation. This association is dedicated to enhancing the appeal of Route 66 and communities nestled between Tulsa, Oklahoma, Route 66, Capital City, and Oklahoma City, the state Capital City. These 11 towns and cities include Sapulpa, Kellyville, Bristow, Depew, Stroud, Davenport, Chandler, Luther, Wellston, Arcadia, Edmond, and are the lifeblood of the iconic Mother Road of Route 66, according to Gochenour.
As the year 2026 marks the 100year anniversary and centennial celebration of Route 66,the MidPoint Route 66 Association has set its sights on a monumental goal: to dramatically improve and prepare these 11 communities for this momentous occasion.With a vision to create an unforgettable experience for travelers and locals alike, the association aims to rejuvenate and honor the spirit of Route 66 and showcase its historical significance.
Under the guidance of founder Eddy Gochenour, an entrepreneur known for his commitment to community development, the MidPoint Route 66 Association will work tirelessly to enhance the beauty and charm of Route 66 and its surroundings. "Our first big milestone is Christmas." Says Gochenour.We are proud to announce we have come together as a unified voice and have selected our Christmas Themes and are all supporting each other. We are scheduling the date of each town to light up their Christmas lights.
The association also is working to make sure everyone is aligned with tourists and visitors all know when the scheduled festivals and other traditional events occur throughout the year in each participating town along Route 66. The Association aims to create an inviting atmosphere that encapsulates the essence of this iconic highway.
Through collaborative efforts with local businesses, community members, and government entities, the MidPoint Route 66 Association will implement a range of initiatives. These include streetscape improvements,building renovations, public art installations, landscaping projects,and the development of visitor information centers. By embracing innovative ideas and preserving the historical integrity of the region, the association seeks to honor the past while building a prosperous future for these twelve communities.
Locally, representatives of the City of Bristow and Bristow Retail Merchants Association have been attending regional meetings and networking with neighboring towns making plans for Christmas and beyond. Bristow’s theme is Cowboy Christmas. “Businesses and volunteers are working diligently to turn our portion of Route 66 into a holiday destination,” says Kristin Weaver,Midpoint Route 66 Association Chair.
The centennial celebration of Route 66 in 2026 will be an opportunity to showcase the rich history,culture,and scenic beauty that this iconic highway represents. The MidPoint Route 66 Association invites all stakeholders, businesses, and community members to join hands in this remarkable endeavor. Together, we can pave the way for an unforgettable journey along the Mother Road.