H.R. 5470: Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act

The Route 66 National Historic Trail Designation Act aims to establish the Route 66 National Historic Trail as a recognized historic trail under the National Trails System Act. Here are the key components of the bill:

Designating the Route 66 National Historic Trail

The bill will formally designate the Route 66 National Historic Trail, which will encompass all alignments of U.S. Highway 66 from its inception in 1926 until 1985. The trail spans approximately 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. A map detailing the proposed trail route will be made available for public inspection at the National Park Service, Department of the Interior.

Administration

The trail will be managed by the Secretary of the Interior through the National Park Service. Management practices are expected to maintain the unique character of Route 66.

Consultation with Indian Tribes

Before any significant activities that may impact Indian Tribes are undertaken, the Secretary of the Interior will be required to consult with relevant tribes, adhering to existing federal laws regarding tribal consultation.

Land Acquisition Restrictions

The bill places specific limitations on land acquisition for the trail:

• The federal government cannot acquire land outside of federally managed areas without the landowner's consent.
• A land acquisition can't extend more than an average of one-quarter mile on either side of the trail.

No Creation of Buffer Zones

Designating the trail will not create any buffer zones around it. This means that necessary activities on the land outside the trail will not be restricted or regulated based on their proximity to the trail.

Energy Development Protections

The bill ensures that nothing in this act will impede the development, production, transportation, or transmission of energy. This includes current and future energy infrastructure projects such as pipelines and renewable energy installations.

Limitations on Land Use Powers

The Secretary of the Interior is explicitly prohibited from using eminent domain or condemnation to acquire lands for the trail. Additionally, the designation does not constitute a designation of the lands as part of the National Park System, which would impose more stringent regulations and protections.

Existing Rights and Permits

The designation will not interfere with the existing authority of federal, state, or local agencies to grant easements or rights-of-way across the trail. Furthermore, the trail will not require any new permits or authorizations under federal laws that would typically apply to a designated national trail.

Concluding Notes

Overall, the bill establishes provisions for the recognition and management of the Route 66 National Historic Trail while setting clear boundaries regarding land acquisition, energy development, and the rights of landowners.

Relevant Companies

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