Transportation is the lifeblood of our Nation and the engine that drives our economy—and nowhere is this better exemplified than on our Nation’s Highways. Our Highways not only connect people, but they transport goods and materials—produce from farms to our grocery stores, steel from our mills to our factories, and cars from our factories to our ports. Officially dubbed the Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways, our Nation’s Interstate System has been called the “Greatest Public Works Project in History.” But this public works project is not done. Although the paths have been paved, there are still improvements to be made, and maintenance and upkeep to attend to.
Transportation is the lifeblood of our Nation and the engine that drives our economy—and nowhere is this better exemplified than on our Nation’s Highways. Our Highways not only connect people, but they transport goods and materials—produce from farms to our grocery stores, steel from our mills to our factories, and cars from our factories to our ports. Officially dubbed the Dwight D. Eisenhower System of Interstate and Defense Highways, our Nation’s Interstate System has been called the “Greatest Public Works Project in History.” But this public works project is not done. Although the paths have been paved, there are still improvements to be made, and maintenance and upkeep to attend to.The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) provides stewardship over this Interstate System, from new construction of highways, bridges and tunnels; to maintenance and preservation.
The FHWA is not always content with traditional construction methods, as innovation is paramount. From new types of pavements, to new streamlined bridge construction technologies, the FHWA conducts research and implements innovations to create better and safer highways.
The FHWA provides technical assistance. The FHWA’s team of engineers, scientists, safety specialists, planners, environmental specialists, and realty experts provide expertise and resources to its State, local, and Federal partners to develop the safest highways possible; while incorporating the most efficient construction techniques, and protecting and preserving the environment to the best extent possible.
Through its Federal-aid Highway Program, the FHWA provides Federal financial assistance to State and local governments for constructing, preserving, and improving our Highways. Through its Federal Lands Highway Program, the FHWA provides funding for public roads and highways within Federally-owned lands (e.g., National parks, forests, and wildlife refuges) and tribal lands.