Bridges and Byways

As president, Dwight D. Eisenhower signed into law the Federal-Aid Highway Act, which became the largest infrastructure project in U.S. history and revolutionized transportation across the country. In this engaging program, students examine primary sources related to this landmark legislation and its impacts on the nation’s development. They will also step into the role of engineers, tasked with designing and testing their own bridges, applying problem-solving skills and creativity to build structures that are both innovative and functional. Through this hands-on activity, students gain an understanding of how infrastructure projects like the Interstate Highway System shape a nation’s future and connect its people.