Overview - Mature Highway System
Investment in road development and improvement declined during WWII. Little expansion occurred. Existing roads fell into slight disrepair. However after the War, to accommodate veteran GIs entering the ranks of the middle class, unprecedented road expansion and suburban development took place. (Below) Place your mouse over the 1949 photo of Highway 10 at the intersection of Highway 65 to see a picture of same site after surface improvements and expansion in 1951. The maps at the bottom of the page of highway traffic volume in the late 1950s illustrate high daily commuter activity and the dominance of the automobile in shaping the suburban transportation network.  |
Maps of traffic flow on the MN highway system in the mid to late 50s. Notice the high density traffic ring enveloping the Twin Cities. (1958) |
