For all of us who live in Louisiana and appreciate the beauty of our state, it is always nice to be recognized by the federal government for our uniqueness. Anyone who has ever road-tripped here knows that sometimes the real jewels are off the beaten path, and apparently the National Scenic Byways Program agrees. The national environmental program was established in 1991, and, according to their website, "recognizes roadways with notable scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational, and archaeological qualities."

So far there have been 184 designated scenic byways in 48 different states, and earlier this week the Federal Highway Administration added 34 National Scenic Byways and 15 All-American Roads to the program, the first since 2009. Scenic America President Mark Falzone issued this statement ahead of the recent designations “The National Scenic Byways Program brings new jobs, tourism, and other benefits to communities along these scenic roads, which are often located in parts of the country where such resources are desperately needed and harder to come by."

Considering how much the coronavirus pandemic has affected the travel and tourism industry in our state, we are grateful to have some shining light upon some of our most beloved areas of Louisiana.

The new National Scenic Byways in Louisiana are:

  • Great River Road National Scenic Byway
  • Boom or Bust Byway
  • Bayou Teche Scenic Byway

Read more about the program here from Scenic America

 

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