The Highway Beautification Act of 1965
The Highway Beautification Act of 1965 is a federal law in the United States that was signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 22, 1965. The law aims to regulate outdoor advertising along interstate highways and other federally funded highways in order to promote the beauty of the country’s landscape. Also know as “Lady Birds Legacy”, this act was a project of the first lady Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson.
Major Provisions
The Highway Beautification Act of 1965 contains several major restrictions, including:
- Limiting the number of billboards, signs, and other outdoor advertising devices near interstate highways and other federally funded highways;
- Establishing standards for the size, lighting, and spacing of outdoor advertising;
- Encouraging the planting of trees, shrubs, and other vegetation to enhance the visual quality of highways;
- Prohibiting advertising on natural features such as rocks and trees, and on other non-conforming structures and objects;
- Requiring states to remove illegal signs and other advertising devices along highways.
Impact on the Landscape
Since its enactment, this act has had a significant impact on the visual quality of highways in the United States. The regulation of outdoor advertising has led to a reduction in the number of billboards and other signs. Which has in turn helped to preserve the natural beauty of the landscape.
Furthermore, the act’s emphasis on planting vegetation has helped to enhance the appearance of highways. Trees, shrubs, and other plants have been added to the medians and along the sides of highways, providing shade, visual interest, and a more natural ambiance to the driving experience.
Conclusion of The Highway Beautification Act of 1965
This act is an important piece of legislation that has helped to preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the United States’ landscape. Though it has faced some controversy and criticism over the years. The law remains an essential tool for ensuring that America’s highways are safe and functional. As well as visually appealing and enjoyable to drive on.
