Sangamon Sun

Illinois state Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) recently cheered the paint scheme of Kevin Harvick's car in the NASCAR regular-season finale.

Butler voiced his support on Saturday in a Facebook post.

"I am a big fan of NASCAR and Kevin Harvick, and even more so after seeing this paint scheme for the regular season finale tonight at Daytona International Speedway. Nice work by Stewart-Haas Racing to feature the most storied road in the world, Route 66. And great to see some iconic Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway kitsch in this promo!" Butler posted.

In January, Butler joined the Route 66 Centennial Commission, according to a release on the representative's website.

“Route 66 begins right here in Illinois, and I am proud that our state will be leading the way to celebrate the centennial of this world-famous byway,” Butler said. “The Mother Road’s 100th birthday celebration will be an international event that is a tremendous opportunity for us to welcome and entertain visitors from around the world who want to experience the magic of Route 66 and also explore what our Illinois communities have to offer.”

The Centennial Commission includes 19 members other than Butler. To highlight the history, communities and economic benefits along Route 66, the commission also consists of officials from tourism, transportation and historical organizations that have preserved and supported the route’s contributions over the years.

In August, Butler wrote about a program he attended that focused on the planning for the celebration," Peoria Standard reports.

“Tremendous program this morning highlighting our region’s efforts along the Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway as we plan for the 100th Birthday of the Mother Road in 2026,” Butler wrote on Facebook.

The Centennial Commission will meet through 2026.