fascinating look back at how our country's interstate highway system, developed 50 years ago, has transformed our nation. it really shows the good that government can do through looking out for the larger public policy goals that the people need; this couldn't have been done on an individual, local, or even state basis-- it had to be done from the perspective of a forward-thinking big government that could put it all together so concretely. yes, it has had some downsides, but it has been a marvel of sound public policy.

i know my family has used its share of the interstate system through our many road travels around the country. and when jessie and i were traveling around california just earlier this year i myself was thinking how much we take it for granted that we have uniform highway signs, rules for the road, mileage and distance information, and all kinds of other standards that assist every traveler.

as a follow-up to the story, check out this cute little story about the old california state highway system.

yes, government can provide a great good