Architecture and Design

Why a Parkway?

The infrastructure of many national parks began as government work projects during the 1930s Great Depression. The fall of the economy just happened to coincide with American's growing love of the automobile. These two factors inspired the building of national parkways. The Natchez Trace Parkway, the addition of Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park, and the Blue Ridge Parkway were designed to meet the recreational needs of a country that was increasingly dependent on the automobile. National Parkways became places where Americans, many who lived in cities, could relax and enjoy the beauty of this country.

National Parkway is a designation of a type of national park. All national parks are administered by the National Park Service. There are many other types preceded by the word National. A few of the many types are listed below.
  • Park
  • Historical Park
  • Park & Preserve
  • Monument
  • Recreation Area
  • Seashore
  • Wild & Scenic River
  • Battlefield
 
 
A two lane road through green trees that arch over the roadway.
What Makes a Parkway a Park?

National parkways are national park units. Learn what is behind the design of a parkway. NPS Photo/ Margaret Walker

 
Below, there are links to a few of the numerous parks that have had work done by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
 

A Few of the Parks with Civilian Conservation Corps Connections

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    A Few Parks with Works Progress Administration Projects

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      Last updated: March 23, 2022

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      Contact Info

      Mailing Address:

      2680 Natchez Trace Parkway
      Tupelo, MS 38804

      Phone:

      800 305-7417
      The Parkway Visitor Center near Tupelo, MS, is open 9am-4:30pm seven days a week. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving, December 25th and January 1st.

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