National Road Informational Kiosk Project Completed

(EFFINGHAM'S INFORMATIONAL KIOSK IS LOCATED ON THE LAWN OF THE OLD COURTHOUSE DOWNTOWN)

The National Road Association of Illinois has announced the completion of an informational kiosk project.

This project officially started in 2002 and, 11 years later, organizers are happy to see the installation of the informational kiosks along the road. Trish Vitale with Francis Associates led this project for the Board; Joe Richardson researched and gathered information and photographs for the kiosks. Split Rock Studios created the panels as the Board organized the best way to distribute these kiosks along the road in Illinois.

Informational kiosks were designed for placement at key locations along the National Road during the summer of 2015. The kiosks are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and will reach byway travelers even during off-hours when visitor centers in the gateway communities are closed. It will help guide visitors to worthwhile experiences along the road.

The National Road passes through beautiful small towns, historic sites and well-known attractions and the Board wanted a way for travelers to truly experience the road. The purpose of the project was to tie all of the communities of the road together and to make them a destination. Mary Truitt, past board President, said, “We are bringing more people into these communities and raising awareness about the road. The National Road (US Route 40) was the road that built the nation. This is a true tribute to the road and our history, specifically in Illinois”.

The National Road Association of Illinois worked tirelessly with communities to organize the best place for each kiosk. You can find the kiosks in these communities: Marshall, Martinsville, Casey, Greenup, Montrose, Teutopolis, Effingham, Altamont, St. Elmo, Brownstown, Vandalia, Mulberry Grove, Smithboro, Greenville, Pocahontas, Highland, St. Jacob, Troy, Collinsville, Fairmont City and Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. The National Road Association of Illinois is currently working on a schedule for official “dedication ceremonies” in each community.

Organizers encourage citizens to travel the 164 miles of the National Road in Illinois and find these kiosks. In each county, you’ll find communities that offer shops, restaurants, parks, museums, and people who make you feel like their hometown is your hometown. Around the turns and along the miles, you’ll always know you’re on the right road because the Association's red, white, and blue shields will be there to guide you.

While exploring, be sure to take photos. Make notes. Uncover memories in the life of a highway that built a nation. Build memories of your own. Savor the miles, savor the moments, and be safe. In other words, enjoy your time on the National Road. Board members hope you think about what travel means to you; creating lasting memories with your family and friends.

For more information on the National Road Association of Illinois, or to become a member, visit www.nationalroad.org or call 888-268-0042. You can also “like” them on Facebook at National Road Association of Illinois for up-to-date information on the road.