Denver — The Colorado Scenic and Historic Byways Program, which has helped guide the development of the state’s roadways that have exceptional scenic, ecological, cultural, and historic attributes, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year.
Eleven of those are national routes, known as America’s Byways, two are All-American Roads, 10 are National Forest Scenic Byways and two are Bureau of Land Management Back Country Byways. Their mutual characteristics are fascinating history, unique natural resources, and scenery that includes mountains, high plains, plateaus and canyons.
A 2016 economic analysis of the state’s economy pegged the cumulative impact of visitor spending while traveling the byways from 2009 to 2014 at nearly $4.8 billion, or nearly $800 million annually. These economic impacts signify that byways are an exceedingly popular tourist draw and contributor to regional and state economic development.
Former CDOT staff historian and State Byways Coordinator Sally Pearce is recognized for developing and guiding the program for more than 20 years. Bates has led the program for most of the last decade through wayfinding, redevelopment and collaboration with local byway groups, CDOT staff, and with traditional and non-traditional partnerships.
For more information about the Scenic and Historic Byways, visit www.ColoradoByways.org.