The 1956 program
The Interstate system grew from planning that preceded World War II, but the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 established the major funding program associated with its construction. The federal government paid ninety percent of eligible construction costs, with states providing the remainder.
Controlled access and separated crossings supported a different kind of travel from older routes through town centers. Interchanges became important points of connection between the highway and local roads. Comparing an Interstate with a nearby U.S. highway reveals two distinct relationships between movement, roadside commerce, and the communities along the way.
What to look for
- Controlled access through designated interchanges
- Grade separation at crossings
- A national program carried out with the states
Sources and further reading
Explore more
- Back to Highways
- U.S. Numbered Highways
- Route 66
- The Lincoln Highway
- Highway Shields — related topic