AUSTIN, TX – May 30, 2021 – Scenic Texas announced today that the bill to establish a State Scenic Byways Program in Texas was signed over the weekend by Governor Greg Abbott, the nonprofit announced today.
Senate Bill 941 by Sen. Dawn Buckingham (R-Lakeway) and sponsored by Rep. Eddie Morales (D-Eagle Pass) goes into effect September 1, making Texas the last state in the nation to join this federal program to preserve and acknowledge dozens of scenic roads across the state.
“We’ve been working for years to make sure Texas is on the National Scenic Byways map so that our small, local communities benefit from this program,” said Sarah Tober, President of Scenic Texas.
Approximately 30 Texas highways in the Transportation Code §391.252 are already eligible to receive federal funding through the Texas Department of Transportation if their local communities choose to apply for funds.
“This new law will allow federal funds to flow to numerous communities adjacent to these scenic roads, stretching across the state, from Three Rivers to Comanche to Alpine,” said Tober.
Scenic Texas developed an interactive map demonstrating the 30 stretches of Texas roads currently protected by state law that would fall under this program. (You can find the map here: scenictexas.org/state-scenic-byway-program)
Of the 30 existing protected scenic byways, three are located in Sen. Buckingham’s district, while four are located in Rep. Morales’ district.
“Whether Americans are planning a long road trip or a weekend getaway, they’ll look to this map to plan their travels,” she added. “And now Texas towns will enjoy the economic development and tourism all along these designated byways.
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Scenic Texas, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of our state’s visual environment, particularly as seen by the traveling public.
Scenic Texas is an affiliate of Scenic America.
