Patchwork Parkway – Utah State Route 143 Receives National Scenic Byway Status
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WASHINGTON, D.C.– Officials from the Federal Highways Administration in Washington, D.C. announced Friday, October 16, 2009 that Utah’s Patchwork Parkway – Utah State Route (SR) 143, the road that runs from Parowan through Brian Head to Panguitch, is now designated as a National Scenic Byway.
Also known as America’s Byways, the program only accepts nominations every three years.
“The title of National Scenic Byway is very difficult to attain”, according to Nancy Dalton, Byway 143 Coordinator, “We were one of 63 applicants, and the only Utah Byway designated to receive National Scenic Byway status.
The designation recognized the historical intrinsic value of Utah Scenic Byway 143. An annual quilt walk in Panquitch, UT commemorates a slice of history where pioneer travelers laid quilts over the snow to protect their limbs from the bitter cold. Though the route offers historical significance, it holds equally notable diversity of scenery, color and never ending vistas. Dalton, Byway 143 Coordinator adds, “There are several overlooks and pullouts where one can view Cedar Breaks National Monument, Brian Head Peak, Markagunt Plateau, Vermillion Castle, Panguitch Lake, lava fields, historic sites, meadows of summer wild flowers, and during autumn aspen groves of brilliant fall colors. A series of trails, side roads, historic and petroglyph sites are ideal for picnics, casual walks, hiking, biking, fishing, hunting and camping”.
Leigh von der Esch, Utah Office of Tourism Director: "We are thrilled to add this new scenic byway designation to our state! This prestigious designation recognizes the uniqueness and beauty that can be found along Highway 143 for the traveler. This is the culmination of the efforts of so many in Southern Utah. Job well done."
While touring southwestern Utah, Monday, October 19th at 2:30 PM, Lieutenant Governor Greg Bell will locally announce the National Scenic Byway designation of Utah SR 143 at a special media and community event held at Heritage Park in Parowan. (89 West Hwy 91). The program will feature several guest speakers, dancers from the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, dignitaries, quilts, and displays. The Byway 143 committee members will be in attendance to answer questions about National Scenic Byway 143 and its designation. In case of bad weather, the program will be held in the Iron County Fairgrounds building located at 80 South 600 East.
