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Idaho scenic byway projects receive federal grants

Five of Idaho’s Scenic Byway projects were awarded more than $1.1 million by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as part of the National Scenic Byway Program’s 2012 award selections.

Western Heritage Historic Byway received $490,000 to construct three miles of five-foot shoulders to provide safe walking, bicycling and vehicle pull-offs. This 40-mile stretch of byway explores the sagebrush lands and canyon rims of the Snake River, offering views of the Owyhee Mountains, the Boise Front and the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation area.

Nearly $384,000 was awarded to construct a visitor rest area in Victor on a city-owned site along the Teton Scenic Byway. The project will provide travelers with parking, restrooms and other facilities.

A Scenic Byways public transportation access project earned $113,000. The project will examine how rural transportation providers may be integrated into a regional network that serves more byway travelers along the top 10 scenic drives in the Northern Rockies.

More than $86,000 was awarded for statewide Scenic Byway signage for Idaho rest areas. The project will standardize, update and improve information provided on signs displayed at 29 Idaho rest areas, gateways and visitor centers.

A rest area adjacent to the Payette River National Scenic Byway in McCall will receive nearly $58,000 for rehabilitation work. The work will include new accessible paths, storm water facilities, lighting and paving. Visitors will enjoy access to public restrooms, a beach and swimming area, a playground, picnic area, recycling and trash bins, and a bike path system along with beautiful mountain and lake views.

The National Scenic Byways Program recognizes roads having outstanding scenic, historic, cultural, natural, recreational and archaeological qualities. Program funding supports projects that manage and protect these roads and improve visitor facilities.