Scenic byway benefits

Great River Road

Although the Scenic Byways program is administered through WisDOT, candidate byways must be locally nominated and supported. This grass-roots approach ensures a strong local commitment to the promotion and long-term preservation of a highway corridor that is officially designated as a scenic byway. Benefits of scenic byway designation can include:

• supports tourism and economic development in communities along a designated byway.
• unique signs, markers, brochures and ongoing promotional efforts can enhance a community’s “marketability.”
• state scenic byways can potentially be designated a National Scenic Byway or All-American Road. Such byways are marketed to national and international travelers, bringing additional recognition and economic benefits to area communities. Both state or nationally-designated scenic byways are eligible to compete for federal discretionary scenic byway funds.
• promotes partnerships between local governments, businesses, civic groups and community leaders.
• strengthens civic pride and makes communities an even more attractive place to live and work.
• serves to identify an area’s scenic, historical and recreational treasures for the enjoyment of future generations.