This Labor Day, enjoy one of America's Scenic Byways

During Labor Day weekend throughout the United States, communities will be celebrating the designation of 113 National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads.

Here in Palmer people can get involved in this grassroots movement.

The Travel Industry of America (TIA) and the Federal Highway Administration and National Scenic Byways Program have announced a partnership, "See America's Byways," to encourage Americans to reconnect with their country and experience the heart and soul of America through its byways.

"I want to invite the Glenn Highway Partnership Board and anyone interested in our byway to join me at the fairgrounds on Labor Day at 5 p.m. I hope to provide an update on our byway designation, adopt an organizational structure and empower some members with resources and responsibilities," said Joe Lawton, chairman of the Glenn Highway Scenic Byway. "We need a cross-section of people to be involved including local business and communities, cultural and historic interests and those with ideas to enhance our byway."

For more information on the Labor Day meeting and location on the fairgrounds, interested people can contact Bonnie Quill at 746-5001.

The national campaign to "See America's Byways" has many elements to raise awareness of America's Byways and their value to all Americans.

Besides national and local TV, newspaper and radio, a free, special edition, full-color map illustrating each of the 113 Byways with photo, name, location, description and contact information will be distributed.

Travel itineraries will also be listed for many of America's Byways on both the www.seaamerica.org and www.byways.org sites.

A national photo contest is now under way to produce a traveling exhibit of photography for all byways entitled, "See America's Byways, the Heart and Soul of America."

The exhibit will be displayed worldwide at museums, public forums, major travel shows and other events.

TIA research shows recent increases in American travelers' interest in highway travel, as well as a strong interest by both domestic and international travelers in outdoor activities, history and culture as well as visiting small towns and rural areas, all elements that can be enjoyed while traveling on America's Byways.

TIA describes America's Byways as a two-tiered designation consisting of the All-American Roads and the National Scenic Byways.

All-American Roads are our country's finest byways; the best of the best. They are designations unto themselves and an exciting adventure for all ages.

The Alaska Marine Highway was also designated a National Scenic Byway in June along with the Glenn Highway. Dedications will begin along the more than 800-mile route beginning Sept. 4 in Haines and Skagway. The Sail-abration, a series of dedications throughout the route, will conclude in Petersburg on Sept. 24.

"I expect record numbers of visitors on all of our scenic byways in the fall after our "See America's Byways" campaign kicks off," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta.

Just as Anchorage is proud of its "All American City" status, Alaska should take advantage of its National Scenic Byways designations and celebrate this Labor Day weekend and get involved in the many projects to enhance the byways.