[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 23 (Wednesday, February 6, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Pages S920-S921]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]

      By Ms. COLLINS (for herself and Mr. Cardin):
  S. 349. A bill to require the Secretary of Transportation to request 
nominations for, and make determinations regarding, roads to be 
designated under the national scenic byways program, and for other 
purposes; to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
  Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, I rise today to discuss the Reviving 
America's Scenic Byways Act, a bill I have introduced with my colleague 
from Maryland, Senator Cardin. Our bill seeks to revive the long-
dormant process within the U.S. Department of Transportation through 
which some of our Nation's most remarkable roadways can earn the 
prestigious designation of ``National Scenic Byway.''
  The National Scenic Byways Program began as a grassroots effort to 
help recognize, preserve, and enhance selected roads throughout the 
United States based on one or more cultural, historic, natural, 
recreational, and scenic qualities. Today, there are more than 150 
distinct roads nationwide that have been recognized as National Scenic 
Byways--including several which have gained the honor of being named an 
``All-American Road.''
  I am proud that my home State of Maine boasts not only three National 
Scenic Byways, but also the Acadia All-American Road. These roadways 
provide Mainers and tourists alike with spectacular views and memorable 
experiences, while at the same time spurring much-needed economic 
activity in the surrounding areas. The National Scenic Byways program 
represents a true win-win scenario by protecting precious corridors and 
providing tangible benefits for local communities.
  Despite this program's proven value, its nomination process has been 
inactive since the passage of the 2012 surface transportation funding 
bill (also known as MAP-21). As a result, numerous roadways across the 
country have been prevented from pursuing National Scenic Byway 
designation.
  In fact, a recent survey found that at least 44 State scenic byways 
across the country are prepared to seek national designation as soon as 
the program is reopened to nominations. It is critical that we provide 
these local byways the opportunity to seek the Federal designation and 
reap its demonstrated benefits.
  Mr. President, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, which in 
turn supports the preservation of America's

[[Page S921]]

most unique roadways and the facilitation of increased economic 
activity in the regions that they serve.
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