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Route 66 Scenic Byway Programs

Scenic byways programs are grass-roots collaborative efforts to recognize outstanding roadways such as Route 66. Communities typically work closely with local and state agencies including their state department of transportation and tourism office to preserve and promote the unique qualities and character of the road.

Several types of designation exist at both national and state levels. The National Scenic Byways Program is part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration and recognizes certain roads as All-American Roads or National Scenic Byways based on one or more archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational and scenic qualities. State scenic byway designation is often the first step in applying to the FHWA for National Scenic Byway designation. Below are current byway designations by state.