There is hereby created a scenic and recreational highway system. Highways in this system shall be developed and maintained in accordance with general standards for state highways of comparable classification and usage.

Recognizing that the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century establishes a national "scenic byway" program that could benefit state and local roadways, the Washington state scenic byway designation program is revised to address state and local transportation routes. Byways in this program must be designated and maintained in accordance with the criteria developed by the department under this chapter. However, a highway so designated under RCW 47.39.069 does not become part of the scenic and recreational highway system unless approved by the legislature. Corridors within the scenic and recreational highway system that showcase the state's historic agricultural areas and promote the maintenance and enhancement of agricultural areas may be designated as agricultural scenic corridors.

Effective date—1999 c 218: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [May 7, 1999]." [ 1999 c 218 s 9.]