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Scenic Byways: A National Program, if Created, Should Be Small Scale

RCED-90-241 Published: Sep 28, 1990. Publicly Released: Oct 29, 1990.
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Highlights

Pursuant to a congressional request, GAO reviewed various scenic byways designated by state and private organizations, focusing on the: (1) characteristics of selected byway programs and activities; (2) criteria for designating byways; and (3) issues raised by state and private officials concerning the creation of a national scenic byways program.

Recommendations

Matter for Congressional Consideration

Matter Status Comments
If Congress decides to create a national scenic byway program, such a program should be of limited scope. The federal-aid highway program already provides funds that can be used to make improvements to scenic byways on the federal-aid highway system. Any efforts to significantly expand federal-aid highway funding for byways may not be warranted at this time, given the need for funds to adequately address the nation's highway and bridge needs and the concerns that many state byway officials have over the creation of a large national program.
Closed – Implemented
As part of a $155-billion authorization for surface transportation, Congress authorized a 6-year, $50-million Scenic Byways Program.

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Topics

ConservationFederal aid to statesstate relationsGravel (Road surface)GuardrailsHistoric preservationPublic roads or highwaysRecreation areasState programsRoad safety structures