|
Scenic
byways are roadways
that traverse environmentally,
culturally, recreationally,
historically and aesthetically
rich landscapes. There
are 72 byways designated
across the United States
and each has been created
with the U.S. Secretary
of Transportation’s
vision to “create
a distinctive collection
of American roads.”
Recognizing
the value of scenic byways in
Minnesota, the Center for Changing
Landscapes has researched and
projected how future growth patterns
in the north central region of
the state will affect the Lake
Country Scenic Byway.
The
Lake Country Scenic Byway is highly
recognized for its natural resource
supply and recreational opportunities.
By working with the Lake Country
Scenic Byway Advisory Committee,
byway officials and interested
citizens, the Center is predicting
the landscape condition of the
Byway years 2010 and 2020 after
project urban growth using a digital
tool called the Land Transformation
Model. With this, the Center will
develop several alternative design
scenarios for selected areas within
and around the Byway.
The
goal is to empower the citizens
in and around the Lake Country
Scenic Byway with the information
and tools needed to anticipate
and determine how the Byway and
its intrinsic qualities will be
preserved, protected and promoted,
creating a comfortable environment
for locals and a unique travel
experience for visitors.
|
