Highway/Freeway System, U.S.

The road system in the United States includes a network of controlled-access freeways (the Interstate Highway System), United States Numbered Highways (U.S. Routes or U.S. Highways), and state highways. Highways in the United States are roads designed to convey traffic between cities, states, and regions. Some, but not all, highways are freeways accessed via interchanges and separated from cross traffic and railroads. This roadway design allows for free or unimpeded travel from point to point (thus the term freeway). Highways within each of these major systems are numbered and recognized by common shields or signs designated for the specific system. Interstate Highways are recognized by a shielded red, white, and blue sign. U.S. Highways are recognized by a shielded black and white sign. State highway ...