STARS AND STRIPES MUSEUM TOP PARTICIPATE IN BYWAY EFFORT

The Stars and Stripes Museum and Library board discussed plans Monday to show off Southeast Missouri.

Deloris May, museum manager, said the Stars and Stripes is trying to participate in getting three state and national scenic byways in Southeast Missouri which include Crowley's Ridge, El Camino Real and Trail of Tears.

May said the byways spark tourism in Southeast Missouri which inturn attracts visitors to the museum.

"I think (the Crowley's Ridge byway) can serve this area well," May said. "A lot of potential money comes with it."

She said tourism is a catalyst for opportunity and produces an economic impact that benefits those who need it most.

Scenic byways are roads that highlight the special natural, historic and cultural features of an area.

May said the byway programs are designed to protect and promote America's scenic roads.

"Byways are popular now," she said. "They appeal to different tourists."

The Crowley's Ridge byway will extend from the Arkansas state line to Commerce. She said it covers three counties in Missouri which include Dunklin, Scott and Stoddard.

Frank Nickell, board member, said if there is a county that will not participate in the scenic byway program then the program will not work.

He said Stoddard County has begun working with Dunklin and Scott counties to get the byway.

Nickell said one of the limits of the program counties will consider is that putting up billboards are prohibited on the byways.

May said however with the Crowley's Ridge byway only running through three counties in Missouri, the counties should agree to establish the byway.

May said the state has approved $70,000 for the first year of the byway. She said there should be an economic return of 20-1 on investments in the byway.

She added the increase in the economic impact should be about $36,000 per mile because of designation effect.