Issue 1-09

CAWP:  Early Supporter of America's First Superhighway

The Pennsylvania Turnpike is commonly referred to as "America's First Superhighway" and CAWP is proud to be an original supporter of the idea to build a low grade, all-weather highway from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg. Prior to its completion, a trip from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg was a treacherous journey. Passing through the Allegheny Mountains was difficult even on fair weather days.

In 1935, the first signs of progress were read in the local papers and ideas of building an all-weather, low grade, high speed highway were debated in the public forum. The Pennsylvania Turnpike would negate the most difficult mountain passes and increase access to points east from the south western portion of the state. In May of 1935 a resolution was introduced in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives to authorize a feasibility study for the roadway.

By 1937, the idea had gained additional support and the CAWP Board of Governors joined in promoting the construction of the roadway. At its Annual Meeting of the year, the Board of Governors passed a resolution endorsing the building of the low grade highway and the creation of a Commission to supervise and operate the highway. Finally, on May 21, 1937, Pennsylvania's Governor George Earle signed Act 211, creating the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. The acknowledgement of CAWP's support for America's First Superhighway can be found in the Executive Secretary's Report dated February 16, 1938: "Both the Governor and Secretary Van Dyke acknowledged receipt of [CAWP's] Resolution and thanked us and the Secretary stated that this was most encouraging support."