Arts & Culture previews 'Route 66 Remixed' program ahead of 2026 centennial

Michelle Sanchez, director of the city's Arts & Culture Department, presented an update on the Route 66 Centennial engagement program and unveiled "Route 66 Remixed," an art-focused initiative scheduled to launch activities in January 2026.

Sanchez said the program includes 18 stops along Albuquerque’s 18-mile segment of Route 66, with 20 artists designing the stops. Half the stops are new public artworks; the remainder are augmented-reality experiences activated by a visitor’s phone. Sanchez said 15 of the 18 stops are complete with three remaining installations due in the coming month. The program features narration by the city’s inaugural poet, Hakeem Bellamy, and a printable map produced by sponsor Blake’s that will be distributed statewide.

Partners named during the presentation include UNM, Presbyterian (which will give a commemorative onesie to every baby born at the Central campus in 2026), Frontier, and local restaurants such as Duran’s. Sanchez said the program is designed for daily engagement through 2026 rather than a single weekend festival; signage work at the Route 66 Visitor Center and a sign park are expected to be ready for visitors in January. Council members praised the cross-departmental work and wide business sponsorship.

Ending: Sanchez told council that web resources and a full departmental briefing have been distributed online; she invited councilors and residents to the pop-up events and described printed maps and swag to support widespread community participation.