Citation

Rosen H. APWA Reporter 2006; 73(7): 35.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, American Public Works Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

As part of a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Interstate Highway System, this article describes the political compromises necessary before legislation authorizing its funding and construction could pass. Over the summer of 1955, compromises were worked out between House and Senate leaders on issues such as funding mechanisms, allocation of spending, and allocation of costs. Leaders involved in the debate included Senators Albert Gore (D-Tennessee) and Harry Byrd (D-Virginia) and Representatives George H. Fallon (D-Maryland.) and Hale Boggs (D-Louisiana). The compromise led to the creation of the Federal Highway Act of 1956, which allocated funds on the basis of “cost to complete.” The gas tax was also raised, and the Highway Trust Fund was created.