History of Interstates and U.S. Highways in Delaware

Delaware’s Interstate and U.S. Highway system plays a vital role in connecting the state with the Mid-Atlantic region. Given Delaware’s small size, highways like U.S. 13, U.S. 113, and U.S. 40 have historically served as major north-south and east-west corridors, facilitating the movement of people and goods. The development of the Interstate Highway System in the 1950s and 1960s led to the construction of I-95, which passes through northern Delaware, linking the state to major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia and Baltimore.

Delaware’s highways experience significant traffic volumes, particularly in the Wilmington area where I-95 can see over 100,000 vehicles per day. These highways are essential for interstate commerce, as they provide key routes for freight movement between the Northeast and Southeast. Additionally, Delaware’s highways play an important role in tourism, especially in the summer months when visitors travel to the state’s beach communities along U.S. 9 and U.S. 113.

Delaware continues to improve its Interstate infrastructure with projects aimed at reducing congestion and improving safety. Notable projects include the expansion of I-95 in Wilmington, improvements to the U.S. 301 corridor, and the construction of the Delaware Route 1 toll road, which connects northern Delaware with the beach areas in the south. These projects aim to enhance the efficiency of Delaware’s transportation network.

Top 20 Busiest and Longest Federal Interstates and U.S. Highways in Delaware