Forty-nine designations were added to the America’s Byways collection by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) this week, including 34 National Scenic Byways and 15 All-American Roads in 28 states.
The additions are the first the government has named since 2009, and will increase the number of America’s Byways to 184 spanning 48 states.
“The designation of these new All-American Roads and National Scenic Byways is a victory for organizations that share Scenic America’s commitment to preserving and protecting our nation’s most beautiful roadways and fueling economic development through tourism,” said Mark Falzone, president of Scenic America, a national nonprofit dedicated to preserving and enhancing America’s visual character and scenic beauty. “We are grateful to the RVIA for their leadership and partnership in this effort which was instrumental in making today’s historic announcement possible.”
Created in 1991, FHWA stated the program is a collaborative effort to help recognize, preserve and enhance selected U.S. roads. The association noted the U.S. Department of Transportation recognizes certain roads based on archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities.
“RVing is about many things – freedom, flexibility, exploration – but it all comes back to the majesty of the open road,” RVIA Senior Manager of Government Affairs Samantha Rocci said. “The revitalization of this program ensures that millions of RVers will continue to be able to experience the magic of roads like historic Route 66, Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway for years to come.”
RVIA cited actions taken by the RV industry and Scenic America which led to passing the America’s Scenic Byways Act, signed into law in September 2019.
Congress had stopped the program’s funding in 2012, RVIA noted. The new law required the Transportation secretary to start a new byways application process within 90 days and designate a round of new National Scenic Byways within one year. This week’s announcement is the result of that process, RVIA stated.
“Through their many unique qualities, each of these new additions to the National Scenic Byways program helps America’s roads tell our national story,” FHWA Executive Director Tom Everett said. “These special routes offer travelers exciting new opportunities to explore the nation, from coast to coast or close to home.”
The complete list of newly designated National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads can be found here.
