Arizona's Old US Route 80 was designated a Historic Road by the Arizona State Transportation Board Friday.
The road winds its way from the New Mexico border through Douglas, Bisbee, Tombstone, St. David, Benson, Tucson, Florence, Apache Junction, Mesa, Tempe, Phoenix, Buck Eye, Gila Bend and Yuma before entering California.
This was the first road to receive this designation in over 15 years.
State Senator, Lisa Otondo, said this designation effort has been four years in the making.
"I am certain this historic designation will create heritage tourism and boost the economics of the community it connects," said Senator Otondo.
US 80 helped shape the west with its roadside architecture, service stations, diners, attractions as well as motels.
Route 80 is already a historic route in California. The supporters of the designation hope other states like New Mexico and Texas will designate their portions of the old highway.
