In October 2009, the Wyoming Department of Transportation designated Highway 26 as a Scenic/Historic Byway from the Nebraska border to Dwyer Junction.

Last week Talbot Hauffe, State Scenic Byway Coordinator was in Goshen County to meet with officials from the county and the municipalities along the highway. Fort Laramie Mayor Richard Monger reported that he was very happy with the enthusiasm expressed by Hauffe.

Monger says he sees the designation as an opportunity for the towns involved to share in the financial boom expected from the highway’s designation.

Hauffe said that the DOT will issue new Wyoming maps this year showing U.S. Highway. 26 as the Scenic/Historic Byway which will immediately draw attention to the area. The designation opens up the area to eligibility for grants to promote the historic sites along the highway.

“The new maps are free marketing to travelers all over the world, telling them that there is something to see and visit,” Hauffe said.

To become eligible for grants, he will lead the group in drawing up a management plan for the corridor. Once that is in place, applications for grants can be considered.



For the complete article see the 03-09-2010 issue.

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