The Long Road: The Interstate Highway System Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

The Interstate Highway System (IHS) celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2006. This article provides an overview of its history and importance, and looks ahead to the challenges of the future. The system was established through the passage of the Federal Highway Act of 1956. At that time, the federal government assumed 90% of the total cost, with states paying 10% and agreeing to own and operate the roads. This funding arrangement allowed highways to be built in less-populated areas that would not have otherwise been able to afford a substantial highway. The IHS is credited with contributing significantly to the U.S. economy. By 1998, 80% of the total value of U.S. shipments was carried by truck. The IHS also spurred the development of better equipment and materials for paving roads. Although the interstate system, strictly defined, is essentially complete, the system remains a growing network since additional routes are planned and roads built without Interstate construction funds under the 1956 program are being approved as part of the Interstate system. Reducing congestion, improving funding, and developing new materials that will make construction faster and ensure more durable facilities remain important issues for the future.