One of the new All American Highways is located in Florida, running the 127.5 mile stretch of the Florida Keys, ending in Key West. It carries US Route 1.
Much of it was built on the former right-of-way of the Overseas Railroad which was completed in 1912 and either heavily damaged or completely destroyed during the devastating Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.
It was sold to the State of Florida and the road completed in 1938. There are 38 bridges including the famous Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon which is actually 6.79 miles long, but upon completion was called the Eighth Wonder of the World.
In 1982, the 37 original bridges were replaced with wider ones, but the old ones left in place and used for recreational pursuits and fishing.
The whole area is part of Monroe County and locations are given by Mile Markers.
This is probably one of the harder stretches of road I've ever driven. It is the only road through the keys and heavily traveled so congestion is a problem. Then, there is the fantastic scenery. By the time we driven those 127 miles, I am ready for a rest when we arrive in Key West.
Deserving of the New Status. --RoadDog
RoadDog's RoadLog Blog: Being my travels down those great two lane highways of this nation as well as news I learn about them from media sources. Since I'm also very interested in historic preservation, there will be a lot of that as well.
The Shamrock Court Motel in Sullivan, Missouri. It can be yours for $125,000. Lots of possibilities. Actually, now you're too late. Missouri's Roamin' Rich bought it.
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