Scenic Byways: A National Program, if Created, Should Be Small Scale
RCED-90-241
Published: Sep 28, 1990. Publicly Released: Oct 29, 1990.
Skip to Highlights
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. | As part of a $155-billion authorization for surface transportation, Congress authorized a 6-year, $50-million Scenic Byways Program. |
Full Report
Public Inquiries
Topics
ConservationFederal aid to statesstate relationsGravel (Road surface)GuardrailsHistoric preservationPublic roads or highwaysRecreation areasState programsRoad safety structures