Introduction
Within the U.S. Department of Transportation, FHWA has lead responsibility for the National Scenic Byways Program. The Program is a grassroots, collaborative effort established to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected roads throughout the United States. The Secretary of Transportation recognizes certain roads as America’s Byways® – All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways – based on one or more archaeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic intrinsic qualities.
The law guiding implementation of the National Scenic Byways Program is Section 162, Title 23 of the United States Code; 23 U.S.C. 162, see http://www.bywaysonline.org/program/us_code.html. FHWA established the principal policy for the Program in its May 18, 1995 Interim Policy (60 FR 26759), see http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=1995_register&docid=fr18my95-105.
There are many benefits in designation as one of America’s Byways®, both in enhancing communities and improving local economies. The recognition of the importance of a byway’s intrinsic qualities by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation can lend support to protect and preserve a byway’s resources. In addition, the America’s Byways® collection is marketed to national and international travelers, and use of the brand and logo can enhance the marketability of a byway. Recognition can also serve to strengthen community pride, involvement, and support of a byway.
There are currently 125 America’s Byways® in 44 States consisting of 27 All-American Roads and 98 National Scenic Byways.
Download a printable copy of the FY 2008 Nomination Guide in Adobe Acrobat format.
