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P.O. Box 7129
Boise, ID 83707
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Fax: 208.334.8563

 


Scenic Byways program produces comprehensive guide
to help agencies, governments plan future requests

Interest in designating new Idaho Scenic Byways or expanding existing byways led to creation and publication this week of a comprehensive program guide that will help organizations plan their efforts.
 
The Idaho Byways 2009 Program Guide complements the award-winning Idaho Scenic Byways brochure and Web site that opens the state’s highway vistas for the world to experience.
 
Garry Young, manager of the Idaho Scenic Byway program, produced the new guide book in response to ongoing inquires for a single planning tool that helps local organizations and government jurisdictions.
 
Much of the content was available in “bits and pieces” and various formats, but it now has been compiled into one document.
 
“I just decided it was best to pull everything together in a streamlined publication so people can find everything the need in one place,” Young explains.
 
The planning guide includes information about all three forms of specially designated highways – Scenic Byways, Historic Byways and Back Country Byways – and photographs that show some of the amenities that can be considered along the routes, such as signs, kiosks and logos.
 
Other content in the new guide include:

  • A scenic byways map
  • An overview of the program
  • Designation criteria and procedures
  • Corridor management plans
  • Matching fund requirements
  • ITD guidelines for determining eligibility of matching funds
  • A complete list of Idaho byways, and
  • An extensive appendix that includes policies, forms and signage guidelines

A consultant working with the state of Tennessee to establish a Scenic Byway program recently contacted Young for information about Idaho’s program. The consultant indicated he had reviewed all programs in the U.S. and concluded that Idaho’s was the best to use as a model.
 
The process and requirements for designating a highway are fairly complex, Young explains. The new planning guide will be a valuable tool for groups that are considering a request.
 
“It’s a real service to those involved in planning."
 
Young will update the book annually. He has a limited number of printed copies available but can have additional ones produced on demand. Individuals also can download and print the guide from the ITD Web site where it is available in pdf (portable document format).

Published 4-3-9