Heritage Quarter told the LaSalle County Tourism Committee it secured the maximum Route 66 centennial grant (reported as $1,000,000) for visitor enhancements such as statues and murals; the award cannot be used for advertising, the presenter said.

The tourism committee agreed to forward potential STAR bond participation to the full LaSalle County Board and to have county counsel contact the program administrators. A roll-call vote recorded 4 ayes, 1 abstention and 1 nay.

At its Dec. 19 meeting the LaSalle County Tourism Coalition approved rack cards, billboards and social-media campaigns for a slate of 2026 events — from youth music training to large festivals — and heard marketing and Heritage Corridor updates.

The LaSalle County Tourism Committee voted Nov. 21 to approve a one-year marketing contract with Shaw Media and authorized $26,750 in bills to Heritage Corridor for website and social media; the committee also reviewed visitor-guide metrics and will send the contract to the full county board for final approval.

Committee members offered detailed edits to a series of promotional videos, approved a seasonal video production plan, and confirmed LaSalle County will be the applicant on an MPP matching grant of $100,000 for FY2026 advertising.

Council finalizes marketing initiatives including video ads and trade show sponsorships.

Council approves budget while discussing social media growth and trail development delays.

LaSalle County invests in ads to boost winter tourism and local attractions.

LaSalle County announces travel guides and hosts Starbuck Country Marathon for tourism promotion.

Officials discuss inviting state representatives to address long-delayed land development issues.

Wilmington celebrates new Route 66 shop opening on May 22 during summer campaign launch.