Federal Highway Administrator Mary Peters
Remarks as prepared for delivery
2002 All-American Road and National Scenic Byway Designations
Thursday, June 13, 2002, Union Station, Washington DC

We are here to celebrate the outstanding scenic roads of America.

Some important people are with us today. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta will announce the fourth round of All-American Road and National Scenic Byway designations. The roads announced today will strengthen the distinctive collection of America's Byways. Bill Norman, President and CEO of Travel Industry Association of America, is here as one of our partners who realizes the value of America's Byways to travelers all around the world.

Byways are a unique and exciting way to experience and see America. Whether you want to travel close to home or plan a drive cross-country, byways provide people with exciting new travel opportunities. They are the treasured destination for people willing to wander a little.

America's Byways are a big part of who we are -- they represent our freedom to follow the open road. Our freedom to discover. They help us reconnect to what is real. They tell America's story. America's Byways are all about appreciating our nation's beauty and getting in touch with the land and its people.

Today we celebrate your efforts -- and the efforts of your friends and neighbors -- in achieving this special recognition for these roads. Your hard work and dedication to byways are worthy of the reward and we thank you.

We thank you for realizing the gems in your highways. We thank you for preserving and protecting the sites, sounds and resources throughout these corridors. We thank you for coming together with your neighbors to create your vision and reach your goals.

We especially thank you for sharing your stories with us. In talking with members of the byway community, one thing that continues to ring loud and clear is the commitment to and reliance on partnerships. Partnerships play a key role in the success of America's Byways on every level.

We have had many partners work with us over the years to build the National Scenic Byways Program, including the American Automobile Association, American Recreation Coalition, National Trust for Historic Preservation, and Scenic America.

Now we are joining into partnerships with corporations, such as Acura and MapQuest.com, that help us spread the word about America's Byways.

Congratulations to all of you for recognizing, preserving and sharing the jewels of our transportation system.

As it says in the display, we will work together to encourage people to: "Travel these enlightened paths and marvel at the beauty. Celebrate the diversity. Remember the past. And revel in the accomplishment. Hear the whispers on the wind. The story continues. America is waiting."