The City of Pacific will take the lead in developing a Route 66 related mural on the concrete retaining wall on Osage Street (Route 66) between First and Second streets.
Officials made the decision at the July 6 board of aldermen meeting. The operations committee will be asked to plan the mural.
The action was taken at the request of Herb Adams, president of the board of aldermen. He said downtown business owner Nancy Omer, who had first called for the mural two years ago needs help with the project and it is not uncommon for the City to take on projects.
“In the past several years the City has completed several great projects,” Adams said. He asked that the mayor’s operation committe take the helm to work with Omer and plan the mural.
The proposed mural would be placed on the concrete wall on the north side of Osage, stretching west from Hwy O (First Street).
Mayor Steve Myers said the wall belongs to MoDOT, but he understands that MoDOT is not against a mural being painted there. The design is in compliance with MoDOT regulations and is considered “non offending.”
Myers also noted that of the four property owners adjoining the wall, two are not opposed to the mural and two have voice opposition, which has to be taken into consideration. Adams said he would meet with the property owners and try to persuade them to favor the mural.
There is ample time for discussion.
The measure was sent to the operations committee to work with Omer in planning the mural. It is hoped a mural could be completed prior to the Route 66 centennial anniversary in 2026.
I think they should do the Rt. 66 shield on the actual roads to make it easier for visitors to stay on the route. Anything related to Route 66, would be appreciated, it is a historic milestone that Pacific should take full advantage of giving visitors something to remember about Pacific.