Overview

The Delaware Scenic and Historic Highways Program was conceived during the 2000 legislative session after the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 320, authorizing the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) to develop and manage the program. Its purpose is to provide recognition to Delaware roadways possessing certain intrinsic qualities that create special visual experience to people traveling the road.

To date, Delaware has 3 designated Scenic and Historic Highways -- the Brandywine Valley, the Red Clay Valley, and the Route 9 Coastal Heritage. DelDOT is seeking to designate more of these special roads to promote them and to ensure that they will be enjoyed for many years to come.

Program Information

What is a Scenic and Historic Highway?

A Scenic and Historic Highway is a transportation route which is adjacent to or travels through an area that has particular intrinsic scenic, historic, natural, cultural, recreational or archeological qualities. It is a road corridor that offers an alternative travel route to our major highways, while telling a story about Delaware’s heritage, recreational activities or beauty. It is a route that is managed in order to protect its special intrinsic qualities and to encourage appreciation and/or development of tourism and recreational resources. Scenic and Historic Highways can also be called “scenic byways.”

Why would you want to seek this designation for a roadway?

Scenic and Historic Highway designation provides official recognition of the special nature of a roadway corridor. This designation will heighten awareness and recognition of the community seeking the designation and help to boost community pride.

Additional community benefits may include:

• Increased business, tax revenue, and jobs from tourist dollars.
• Federal and state funding for planning and implementing a corridor plan.
• Protection for a resource that may become threatened.
• Improved maintenance for your road.
• Access to resources and expert assistance in managing the corridor.
• Identification on state highway maps, leading to more tourism opportunities for the area.
• Assistance from state offices of economic development and tourism.