The History of America’s Roads

For many of us, the only time we give much thought to the roads we drive on is when the road is in need of repair or perhaps when driving along a an especially nice or newly paved road. This isn’t to say we don’t notice the roads, just that we tend to take for granted the asphalt roads. However, this luxury of smooth (at least for the most part) driving has not always been.
Even after American roads began being paved, which was not until 1872 in New York City’s Battery Park on Fifth Avenue and then on Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C. in 1877, there was no set standard for every town or city. History shows that in the early years of auto travel, it was a common problem for drivers, especially those in rural areas to get stuck. Hence, the rallying cry for those in the auto industry was "Get the farmers out of the mud!" Ultimately, in 1916, Congress passed the Federal Aid Road Act which resulted in funding being made available on a continuous basis so state agencies could begin making improvements to their roads. Unfortunately, the focus came to a grinding halt when the U.S. entered World War 1.
After the War, road construction resumed when the Bureau of Public Roads (BPR) allocated funding to build a paved system of two-lane highways. Construction on the road system continued at a remarkable pace, until once again the turmoil of war (WWII) caused the majority of those laboring, as well as some of the equipment and materials, to be needed for the War.
When WWII was over, there were problems with America’s roads. Because of unfinished roads, disrepair and a sudden influx of travelers, America’s roads-especially in large cities- were inadequate. So, in 1944 President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the legislation for the National System of Interstate Highways. However, there was minimal funding to support the work. By the time President Dwight D. Eisenhower came into office, he faced a massive problem regarding America’s roads and highway system, which he quickly began to correct.
In 1956, President Eisenhower signed the Federal Aid Highway Act and the Interstate system as we know it today got its start. The project was filled with numerous problems due to concerns for the environments, number of vehicles in use, as well as the variety of vehicles being used. Consequently, the project was called the "Greatest Public Works Project in History". But it has had great success.
Over the years the names of the departments responsible for road construction have changed, the BPR was renamed the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and was brought under the wings of the U.S. Department of Transportation, but the concern for improving our nation’s roads, interstates and highways continues. During the 70s and 80s, the FHWA continue to move ahead in the improvement and construction of American road ultimately completing 99% of the 42,800 mile Interstate System, which now officially called the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways.
So, the next time you are driving along a well paved highway and come upon a road construction, remember to say thanks. Their hard work and the work and vision of those before them, are the reason we can enjoy road travel as we know it today.