What is Interstate 90 (I-90) and what is its significance in the U.S. highway system?

Interstate 90 (I-90) is a major east-west transcontinental freeway that spans the United States. It holds the distinction of being the longest Interstate Highway in the country, stretching approximately 3,099.7 miles (4,988.5 km) from its western terminus in Seattle, Washington, to its eastern terminus in Boston, Massachusetts. Its extensive length means it traverses a diverse range of geographical regions and climates across the nation.

What is the total length of Interstate 90, and how does it compare to other Interstates?

Interstate 90 (I-90) measures 3,099.74 miles (4,988.55 kilometers) in length, making it the longest highway in the Interstate Highway System. This considerable length allows it to connect the Pacific Northwest to the Northeast, passing through thirteen states.

Which states does Interstate 90 traverse from west to east?

Interstate 90 (I-90) travels through thirteen states. Starting from the west, these states are Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and Massachusetts.

Where are the western and eastern termini of Interstate 90 located?

The western terminus of Interstate 90 (I-90) is in Seattle, Washington, at an intersection with Washington State Route 519. Its eastern terminus is in Boston, Massachusetts, at an interchange with Massachusetts Route 1A near Logan International Airport.

How much of Interstate 90's total length consists of toll roads, and which states primarily feature these tolled sections?

Approximately 760 miles (1,220 km) of Interstate 90 (I-90), which is about 25 percent of its total length, utilizes turnpikes and other tolled highways. These toll sections are predominantly found in the Midwest and Northeastern states, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, though specific segments within these states may be toll-free.

Which section of Interstate 90 experiences the highest traffic volume, and where is the lowest traffic volume recorded?

According to 2011 data, the busiest section of Interstate 90 (I-90) is located in the Chicago area, with a daily average of 306,574 vehicles. In contrast, the lowest daily traffic counts were observed in Wyoming, where rural sections of the freeway averaged only 9,820 vehicles per day.

What unique geographical features does Interstate 90 cross in Washington State?

In Washington State, Interstate 90 (I-90) crosses significant geographical features including the Cascade Range. It also utilizes the Mount Baker Ridge Tunnel and is notable for crossing Lake Washington via two floating bridges: the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge (eastbound) and the Homer M. Hadley Memorial Bridge (westbound and carrying light rail).

What is the significance of the Homestake Pass section of I-90 in Montana?

The Homestake Pass section of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Montana is significant because it crosses the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide at an elevation of 6,329 feet (1,929 meters), marking the highest point on the entire Interstate 90 route.

How did Montana's speed limit policy differ on rural highways, including I-90, between 1995 and 1999?

Between 1995 and 1999, Montana did not have a specific numbered daytime speed limit on its rural highways, including Interstate 90 (I-90). Instead, the speed limit was defined as 'reasonable and proper,' determined on a case-by-case basis by the Montana Highway Patrol, until a Montana Supreme Court ruling deemed this unconstitutional.

What notable historical site does Interstate 90 pass near in Wyoming?

Interstate 90 (I-90) passes near the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn in Wyoming, located along the Little Bighorn River on the Crow Indian Reservation.

What unique roadside attraction is located near Interstate 90 in South Dakota?

Near Interstate 90 (I-90) in South Dakota, close to Wall and northeast of Badlands National Park, is the famous Wall Drug Store, a well-known roadside attraction.

What memorial feature is located at a rest area overlooking the Missouri River along I-90 in South Dakota?

Along Interstate 90 (I-90) in South Dakota, a rest area near Chamberlain overlooks the Missouri River and features the 50-foot tall 'Dignity' statue, commemorating the state's Native American heritage.

What event in Minnesota is commemorated with a golden line painted on the ground near I-90?

In Minnesota, a golden line was painted near Blue Earth to commemorate the completion of Interstate 90 (I-90) in 1978, symbolically mirroring the 'golden spike' that marked the completion of the first transcontinental railroad.

What geographical region does I-90 traverse in southeastern Minnesota, and what river does it cross near the Wisconsin border?

In southeastern Minnesota, Interstate 90 (I-90) travels through the hilly Driftless Area. It crosses the Mississippi River on the Dresbach Bridge before entering Wisconsin.

What unique geological feature is associated with the Wisconsin Dells section of I-90?

Interstate 90 (I-90) passes through Wisconsin Dells, which is situated on the gorge of the Wisconsin River known as the Dells of the Wisconsin River, famous for its sandstone formations.

How does Interstate 90 interact with Interstate 94 in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, Interstate 90 (I-90) joins Interstate 94 (I-94) in Tomah. The two Interstates travel concurrently southeast towards Madison before I-94 separates east of the city.

What is the significance of the Dan Ryan Expressway section of I-90 in Chicago?

The Dan Ryan Expressway section of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Chicago was described as the 'world's widest freeway' at the time of its opening in 1962, featuring 12 lanes split between local and express traffic. It also carries the 'L' Red Line rapid transit system in its median.

What unique feature does the Kennedy Expressway section of I-90 in Chicago incorporate?

The Kennedy Expressway section of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Chicago features the Chicago 'L' Blue Line rapid transit system running in its median, providing integrated public transportation along the freeway corridor.

How does Interstate 90 interact with Interstate 80 in Indiana?

In Indiana, Interstate 90 (I-90) is concurrent with the Indiana Toll Road for its entire length within the state. It shares this route primarily with Interstate 80 (I-80), forming a major tolled corridor across the northern part of the state.

What is the significance of the "Dead Man's Curve" on I-90 in Cleveland, Ohio?

The "Dead Man's Curve" is a sharp, 90-degree turn on the Innerbelt Freeway section of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Cleveland, Ohio. It earned its nickname due to its history of frequent crashes, highlighting the challenging geometry of this urban freeway segment.

What is the shortest Interstate 90 section located within a single state?

The shortest section of Interstate 90 (I-90) within a single state is in Pennsylvania, measuring only 46 miles (74 km). This segment runs entirely within Erie County along the Lake Erie shoreline.

What historical waterway does Interstate 90 roughly follow across New York State?

Across New York State, Interstate 90 (I-90) roughly follows the path of the historic Erie Canal, a vital transportation route that significantly shaped the state's development.

What is unique about the exit numbering system on the New York State Thruway portion of I-90?

The exit numbering system on the New York State Thruway mainline, which carries Interstate 90 (I-90), originates from New York City and increases northward and westward. This results in mileposts and exit numbers running backward from west to east, which is contrary to the typical federal preference for increasing numbers from west to east.

Which state is unique for having a complete set of nine auxiliary Interstate Highway numbers associated with I-90?

New York is unique among the states traversed by Interstate 90 (I-90) for having a complete set of nine auxiliary routes, utilizing all possible three-digit numbers (I-190 through I-890, and I-990) within its borders.

What is the primary designation for I-90 in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, Interstate 90 (I-90) is concurrent with the entire length of the Massachusetts Turnpike, commonly known as "the Pike" or "MassPike."

What major project extended I-90 in Boston and when was it completed?

The Big Dig megaproject in Boston extended Interstate 90 (I-90) eastward by 3.5 miles (5.6 km) through tunnels under Fort Point Channel and Boston Harbor to Logan International Airport. This extension was completed and opened in January 2003.

What was the original proposal for a transcontinental highway in the U.S. that predated the Interstate Highway System?

Before the Interstate Highway System, proposals for a transcontinental west-east controlled-access highway were put forth in federal government documents in the 1930s and 1940s, laying the groundwork for what would eventually become I-90.

What role did auto trails play in the development of routes that would become I-90?

Auto trails, such as the Yellowstone Trail and National Parks Highway, were named routes established by private organizations in the early 20th century. These trails often followed the paths of existing roads and served as precursors to the numbered U.S. Highways and later the Interstate Highway System, including segments of the future I-90.

Which existing toll roads were incorporated into the Interstate 90 route, and what was a consequence of this incorporation?

Interstate 90 (I-90) incorporated several pre-existing toll roads, including the Ohio Turnpike, New York State Thruway, and Massachusetts Turnpike. A consequence of this was that some portions of I-90 did not initially meet the strict design standards required for the Interstate Highway System, though many were later upgraded.

What was the significance of the Dan Ryan Expressway's opening in Chicago in relation to I-90?

The opening of the Dan Ryan Expressway in Chicago on December 15, 1962, was significant as it was described as the 'world's widest freeway' at the time and became a key component of Interstate 90 (I-90) within the city's highway network.

Why was the designation of I-90 switched with I-94 south of Chicago in 1965?

The designation of Interstate 90 (I-90) was switched with Interstate 94 (I-94) south of Chicago in 1965 at the request of Illinois and Indiana state governments. This change aimed to provide a continuous toll connection between the Illinois Tollway (Chicago Skyway) and the Indiana Toll Road, reducing confusion for travelers.

What challenges led to the delayed completion of Interstate 90 in Washington State?

The completion of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Washington State was delayed primarily due to disputes and litigation concerning the Seattle-to-Bellevue section, involving environmental and social impact considerations.

What is the significance of the Mountains to Sound Greenway along I-90 in Washington?

The Mountains to Sound Greenway, established along Interstate 90 (I-90) in Washington, was the first National Scenic Byway designated along an Interstate Highway. It aims to preserve wilderness and recreational areas within the corridor between Seattle and Thorp.

What happened to the original Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge during renovations, and how did it affect the I-90 project?

During renovations in November 1990, the original Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge, part of Interstate 90 (I-90) in Washington, sank. This incident delayed the project's completion by a year, as the bridge had to be rebuilt.

What major infrastructure project in Boston extended I-90 and what was its approximate cost?

The Big Dig megaproject in Boston extended Interstate 90 (I-90) to Logan International Airport. This significant undertaking cost approximately $6.5 billion (equivalent to $10.3 billion in 2023 dollars) and involved extensive tunneling and construction.

What happened in the Big Dig tunnel in Boston in 2006, and what was the outcome?

In July 2006, a ceiling panel collapse occurred in the Fort Point Channel tunnel, a part of the Big Dig project carrying Interstate 90 (I-90) in Boston, resulting in one fatality. The tunnel was subsequently closed for repairs and retrofitting, reopening in January 2007.

What commemorative names does Interstate 90 carry in different states?

Interstate 90 (I-90) carries several commemorative names across the states it traverses. These include the 'American Veterans Memorial Highway' in Washington and Minnesota, the 'Purple Heart Trail' in Idaho, Montana, and South Dakota, the 'Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Highway' in Wisconsin, and the 'AMVETS Memorial Highway' in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York.

What is the significance of Interstate 990 in relation to I-90 in New York?

Interstate 990 (I-990) is notable because it is the highest-numbered auxiliary Interstate Highway and is located near Buffalo, New York, along the I-90 corridor. However, it is not directly connected to I-90 itself.

How does the numbering of exits and mileposts on the New York State Thruway portion of I-90 differ from the standard convention?

The exit numbering and mileposts on the New York State Thruway portion of Interstate 90 (I-90) generally run backward from west to east. This is because the numbering system originates from New York City and increases northward along I-87 and westward along I-90, deviating from the typical federal preference for mile-based numbers increasing consistently in one direction.

What is the highest elevation reached by Interstate 90, and where is it located?

Interstate 90 (I-90) reaches its highest elevation at Homestake Pass in Montana, situated within the Rocky Mountains and crossing the Continental Divide at 6,329 feet (1,929 meters) above sea level.

What is the significance of the I-90 floating bridges in Washington?

The floating bridges carrying Interstate 90 (I-90) across Lake Washington in Washington State are among the longest of their kind in the world. They are crucial components of the route, connecting Seattle to Mercer Island and the Eastside region.

Which major U.S. cities does Interstate 90 pass through or near?

Interstate 90 (I-90) passes through or near numerous major U.S. cities along its extensive route. Key cities include Seattle, Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, Billings, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Rochester, Madison, Milwaukee (near), Chicago, Cleveland, Erie, Buffalo, Rochester (NY), Syracuse, Albany, Worcester, and Boston.

What historical transportation corridor does I-90 parallel in New York?

Across much of New York State, Interstate 90 (I-90) runs parallel to the historic Erie Canal, following the general path of the canal's Water Level Route, which was also used by the New York Central Railroad.

What was the first section of I-90 completed in Washington State?

The first section of Interstate 90 (I-90) completed in Washington State was a bypass of Spokane Valley, which opened in November 1956. This marked the initial segment of the transcontinental highway in the state.

What is the total length of Interstate 90 in miles and kilometers?

Interstate 90 (I-90) spans a total of 3,099.74 miles, which is equivalent to 4,988.55 kilometers, making it the longest Interstate Highway in the United States.

What is the purpose of the 'Auxiliary routes' section in the context of Interstate 90?

The 'Auxiliary routes' section lists the spur, loop, and connecting highways that branch off from the main Interstate 90 (I-90) line. These routes often serve major cities or points of interest near the primary highway, providing additional access and connectivity.

What is the significance of the 'Authority control databases' section found at the end of the article?

The 'Authority control databases' section provides links to external databases like VIAF, Library of Congress, and Structurae that contain further information and cataloging details about Interstate 90. This helps users find more comprehensive resources and verify the data's provenance.

What role did the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 play in the creation of I-90?

The Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 was instrumental in the creation of the Interstate Highway System, including Interstate 90 (I-90). This landmark legislation provided the federal funding and framework necessary for the construction of the national network of freeways.

Interstate 90 Wiki: Transcontinental Artery: Interstate 90's Journey Across America

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Interstate 90: An Overview

Unparalleled Length

Interstate 90 (I-90) stands as the longest freeway within the United States Interstate Highway System. Spanning an impressive 3,099.74 miles (4,988.55 km), it traverses the nation from west to east, connecting the Pacific Northwest to the Northeast.

Coast-to-Coast Corridor

The route commences in Seattle, Washington, and concludes in Boston, Massachusetts. In its extensive journey, I-90 passes through thirteen states, serving as a critical artery for commerce, travel, and regional connectivity across diverse geographical landscapes.

Traffic Dynamics

Traffic volume varies significantly along its length. Data from the Federal Highway Administration indicates the busiest segment is in the Chicago metropolitan area, with over 300,000 vehicles daily. Conversely, rural sections in Wyoming experience considerably lower traffic counts, averaging around 9,820 vehicles per day.

Navigating the Route

Western Landscapes

Beginning in Seattle, I-90 immediately crosses the Cascade Range in Washington and the Rocky Mountains in Montana. It then traverses the northern Great Plains, showcasing a dramatic transition from coastal forests and mountains to vast prairies.

Midwestern Hubs

The freeway enters the Midwest by following the southern shore of Lake Michigan through the Chicago metropolitan area. It continues through Indiana and Ohio, often paralleling the southern shore of Lake Erie, before entering Pennsylvania.

Eastern Terminus

In New York, I-90 largely follows the historic Erie Canal corridor. It then enters Massachusetts, culminating its transcontinental journey at an interchange with Massachusetts Route 1A near Logan International Airport in Boston.

Historical Trajectory

Conception and Establishment

The concept of a northern transcontinental highway was explored in federal documents as early as the 1930s and 1940s. The Interstate Highway System's creation via the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 provided the framework. I-90 was officially designated in 1957, representing the northernmost transcontinental route.

Construction and Integration

The route incorporated many pre-existing U.S. Highways and auto trails. A significant aspect of its construction involved integrating numerous toll roads, such as the New York State Thruway and the Massachusetts Turnpike, which were built in the 1950s and 1960s. Construction phases varied by state, with western segments being completed later than those in the Midwest and East.

Completion Milestones

While many sections were completed by the late 1970s and early 1980s, the final segments were finished in the 1990s. Washington state's completion, particularly the complex Seattle-area segment involving floating bridges and tunnels, concluded in 1993. Boston's extension to Logan Airport, part of the Big Dig project, opened in 2003, marking the final major addition.

Key Interchanges

Major Concurrencies

I-90 engages in significant concurrencies with other major routes. Notably, it runs concurrently with I-80 across northern Indiana and Ohio, and with I-94 in the Chicago area. It also shares segments with numerous U.S. Highways and state routes throughout its extensive path.

Notable Structures

The route features several engineering marvels. In Washington, I-90 utilizes the longest floating bridges in the world across Lake Washington. The highway also crosses the Continental Divide at Homestake Pass in Montana, the highest point on the entire Interstate system.

Urban Integration

In major metropolitan areas like Seattle, Chicago, Cleveland, and Boston, I-90 is integrated into urban freeway systems, often featuring multiple lanes, reversible express lanes, and direct connections to airports and central business districts, sometimes involving complex interchanges and tunnels.

Designated Corridors

Veterans Memorial Highways

Several states have designated portions of I-90 to honor veterans. Washington and Minnesota jointly recognize their segments as the "American Veterans Memorial Highway." Idaho, Montana, and South Dakota designate their sections as part of the "Purple Heart Trail," honoring recipients of the Purple Heart medal.

National Recognition

In Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, I-90 is officially designated the "AMVETS Memorial Highway," further underscoring its role as a commemorative route. The "Mountains to Sound Greenway" in Washington, designated a National Scenic Byway, highlights the route's scenic and environmental importance.

State-by-State Lengths

Segmental Data

The total length of Interstate 90 is 3,099.74 miles (4,988.55 km). The distribution across states varies significantly, reflecting the diverse geography and state highway planning initiatives.

Interstate 90 Segment Lengths
State	Miles	Kilometers
Washington	296.92	477.85
Idaho	73.55	118.37
Montana	552.46	889.10
Wyoming	208.80	336.03
South Dakota	412.76	664.27
Minnesota	275.70	443.70
Wisconsin	187.13	301.16
Illinois	123.89	199.38
Indiana	156.28	251.51
Ohio	244.75	393.89
Pennsylvania	46.30	74.51
New York	385.48	620.37
Massachusetts	135.72	218.42
Total	3,099.74	4,988.55

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References

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This content has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence, drawing upon publicly available data from Wikipedia. It is presented for educational and informational purposes, aiming for academic rigor and clarity suitable for higher education students. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the provided source material, the information may not be exhaustive or reflect the absolute latest developments.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein does not constitute engineering, planning, or transportation consultation. Readers are encouraged to consult official transportation authority documentation and qualified professionals for specific applications or detailed analysis.

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Transcontinental Artery

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Interstate 90: An Overview ℹ️

📏 Unparalleled Length

📍 Coast-to-Coast Corridor

🚗 Traffic Dynamics

Navigating the Route 🛣️

🏞️ Western Landscapes

🏙️ Midwestern Hubs

🏛️ Eastern Terminus

Historical Trajectory ⏳

📜 Conception and Establishment

🏗️ Construction and Integration

🏁 Completion Milestones

Key Interchanges 🔗

↔️ Major Concurrencies

🌉 Notable Structures

🏛️ Urban Integration

Designated Corridors 📜

🎖️ Veterans Memorial Highways

🇺🇸 National Recognition

State-by-State Lengths 📏

📊 Segmental Data

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Interstate 90: An Overview

Unparalleled Length

Coast-to-Coast Corridor

Traffic Dynamics

Navigating the Route

Western Landscapes

Midwestern Hubs

Eastern Terminus

Historical Trajectory

Conception and Establishment

Construction and Integration

Completion Milestones

Key Interchanges

Major Concurrencies

Notable Structures

Urban Integration

Designated Corridors

Veterans Memorial Highways

National Recognition

State-by-State Lengths

Segmental Data

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice