Department of Transportation Collection--approximately 2,500 photographs created by the Florida Department of Transportation

Collection Number: S 280
Creator: Florida. Dept. of Transportation.
Title: Photographs, 1955-1987 (bulk 1956-1960)
Quantity: ca. 2,500 photographic prints

Description: This series consists primarily of photographs of roads maintained by the Florida Department of Transportation (DOT) and its predecessor agency, the State Road Board. The majority of the images were created by the State Road Board between 1955 and 1960 as part of an extensive state road visual survey. These images document the condition and nature of the state's roads and the businesses, residences, and natural areas along the roads. Additionally there are images of road construction, highway dedications, and other Florida DOT activities, facilities, and employees. The series also contains brochures and press releases further documenting the activities depicted in the photographs.

Historical Note: The Department of Transportation was created in 1969 by the reorganization of eight state agencies into one single department to manage Florida's transportation systems (Ch 69-106, Laws of Florida). The Department oversees, licenses and/or inspects highways, bridges, airports, rail lines, and public transit systems. It conducts research and develops policies for a state comprehensive transportation plan; coordinates the transportation services of government agencies and private sectors; and directs the design, construction, and maintenance of the state highway system. The Department was first established in 1915 as the State Road Department to develop a state road system. It was reorganized in 1955 as the State Road Board to define state roads; assemble maps and information about the roads in the state; and establish a priority system of roads. It also directed the construction and maintenance of state roads; regulated road construction contractors; managed state and federal funds for road improvements; and issued rules and regulations related to state roads.