Legislation1956
Federal-Aid Highway Act Signed
President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, authorizing the construction of 41,000 miles of interstate highways. It was the largest public works project in American history, transforming transportation, commerce, and daily life.
Why It Matters
The Interstate Highway System demonstrated the federal government's capacity to undertake ambitious infrastructure projects for the common good, connecting communities and strengthening the national economy.