Concerns Rise Over Proposed I-49 Connector Project

The Allendale neighborhood in Shreveport, Louisiana, home to a historically significant Black community, faces potential destruction due to the proposed I-49 Inner-City Connector highway, which state officials claim will revitalize blighted areas despite community opposition. Critics argue that the project will isolate the neighborhood and damage local landmarks, with the highway projected to cost $865 million but only save drivers an average of three minutes in travel time. Meanwhile, the Illinois State Museum is collecting 100 oral histories for the Route 66 Oral History Project, commemorating the iconic highway's centennial. In sports, Penn State head coach James Franklin is focused on the upcoming game against West Virginia, emphasizing the Mountaineers' strong momentum and the challenge of playing in their home environment. Additionally, a recent exploration of Virginia's Route 29 highlights how historical names along the highway reflect the evolution of American memory and identity. Overall, these stories reveal ongoing community struggles, historical preservation efforts, and the cultural significance of American roads.