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stories along the Byway, centered upon survival on one’s own terms. These stories What is a Scenic Byway?
are reflected today at the Amana Colonies, with an intact landscape of modest and
functional stone, brick, and wood structures, and on the Meskwaki Settlement, with
its vibrant cultural heritage and emerging museum facility and historical interpretation The FHWA defines a scenic byway as “a public
program. road having special scenic, historic, recreational,
cultural, archaeological, and/or natural qualities
The Byway area also includes the communities of Chelsea, Elberon, Belle Plaine, that have been recognized as such through
Gladstone, Haven, Irving, Koszta, Ladora, Marengo, Montour, Tama, Toledo, and legislation or some other official declaration.”
Vining, each with related stories pertaining to ethnic settlement (especially Belgian, Most byways emphasize the surrounding
English, and Czech immigrants), quintessential Americana, and the Iowa River’s landscape’s natural beauty—attractive views,
abundant natural resources. Within and in between the anchor communities are recreational opportunities, or wildlife—hence the
numerous cultural, historic, scenic, archaeological, recreational, and natural points designation “scenic” byway.
of interest. Most important to the Byway’s story are its cultural and historic intrinsic
qualities. Emerging now and for the future are the recreational opportunities for hikers, There are more than 50,000 miles of scenic
bikers, motorists and water enthusiasts associated with the Byway’s natural resources byway in the United States. Some well-known
and budding agritourism. scenic byways include Washington D.C.’s
Pennsylvania Avenue; the Great River Road,
The IVSB was designated an Iowa Scenic Byway in 1998. As of 2012, the Iowa Valley along the Mississippi River; and the Pacific Coast
Scenic Byway is in the process of applying for a National Scenic Byway designation by Highway.
the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This document, or corridor management
plan (CMP), is required for consideration as a “national” byway. Scenic byways may be designated at the local,
state, or national level. Presently, the Iowa Valley
WHaT IS a CorrIdor MaNaGeMeNT PLaN? Scenic Byway is an Iowa State scenic byway.

A corridor management plan provides short-term and long-term guidance towards the
development, marketing, interpretation and preservation of a byway area. A CMP is a
practical document, bringing individuals and groups together to achieve locally derived
visions and goals for the Byway.

A CMP must address 14 elements as set forth by the FHWA. These 14 points relate to
assessing existing byway conditions, inventorying important byway resources (called
“intrinsic qualities”), and formulating a plan of action for the Byway’s future. The action
plan is driven by local needs and wants.

This CMP lays out the vision, goals, and management recommendations for protecting
and enhancing the Iowa Valley Scenic Byway. Plan implementation will increase
byway enjoyment for residents and visitors alike. The plan will facilitate economic
development by stimulating the local and regional economies through increased
visitation to the area and job creation. A CMP is required for FHWA designation as