Proposed Zoning Code Amendments to Add Provisions for Roadside Attractions on Route 66
A public hearing to receive feedback from residents and business owners on zoning provisions for roadside attractions along Route 66 will be held by the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission on Wednesday, May 1, at 1 p.m. at City Hall.
Route 66 in Tulsa has seen significant growth and private investment over the past five years, resulting in a need to consider amendments to the zoning code to establish criteria and a process for roadside attractions.
Property owners have enhanced the route through more than just neon signage, including new businesses and roadside attractions. Currently, the zoning code does not address roadside attractions, and typically sign standards are applied to these structures in the overlay.
Planning Director Susan Miller says the City hopes to build on the success of the neon sign provisions in the overlay. “By incorporating roadside attractions in the overlay, we can look forward to making Route 66 an even bigger destination for residents and tourists alike.”
The Route 66 Overlay was adopted by the City Council in 2018 to ensure the enhancement, development, and revitalization of the authentic Route 66 through the promotion of historic and historically inspired signage, especially neon.
The City Council-initiated amendments to the Route 66 Overlay to include provisions for roadside attractions on January 31. The public hearing to receive feedback from interested parties will be held during the Tulsa Metropolitan Area Planning Commission meeting on May 1. Next, the amendments will go to the City Council for final approval.
The City of Tulsa announced requests for proposals for Route 66 roadside attractions earlier in April at cityoftulsa.org/bids.
For more information about Route 66 in Tulsa and the City of Tulsa’s efforts on the famed Mother Road, visit cityoftulsa.org/Route66.
More information on the Route 66 Overlay
The Route 66 overlay establishes zoning regulations and incentives intended to ensure the enhancement, development, and revitalization of the authentic Route 66 through the promotion of historic and historically inspired signage, especially neon, along and adjacent to the two alignments of Route 66 in Tulsa.
The regulations are generally intended to guide the character of both public and private development as it occurs along Route 66. The initial purpose of the overlay was focused signage and allows greater sign allowances for neon signs. To assist in implementation of the overlay, the neon sign grant program began in 2019 and has resulted in approximately 60 grants totaling $396,719 in grants, with a total investment of $1,133,000 in neon signs along the route.
Proposed amendments
If adopted, the following language will be added to Chapter 20 of the Tulsa Zoning Code:
20.070-C Roadside Attractions
Roadside attractions are permitted in the Route 66 Overlay district. Roadside attractions are features or structures intended to promote tourism and enhance the Route 66 experience.
1. General Regulations
a. Roadside attractions are subject to review and approval by the Tulsa Route 66 Commission.
b. Business name and/or logos will be considered signage and are required to comply with sign regulations.
c. Roadside attractions are required to obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
2. In reviewing roadside attractions, the Route 66 Commission must determine that the proposal:
a. Reflects the historic significance of Route 66 in Tulsa by identifying elements that contribute to its legacy and character; and
b. Promotes tourism along Route 66; and
c. Implements recommendations adopted in Plan 66.