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H 3685

An Act designating historic routes

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Steven Howitt

Designates Massachusetts Routes 1, 20, and 6 as historic United States Routes; MassDOT must install and maintain markers to honor heritage and boost local tourism.

Read second and ordered to a third reading
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Bill Summary · H 3685

Summary: H.3685 – An Act designating historic routes

Purpose and intent

H.3685 proposes to designate three major Massachusetts roadways—Route 1, Route 20, and Route 6—as historic United States routes within the Commonwealth. The bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) to acknowledge and promote these routes’ historic status through dedicated signage.

Key provisions

  • Designation: Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, Route 1, Route 20, and Route 6 in Massachusetts would be designated and known as historic United States Routes.
  • Signage and markers: MassDOT is obligated to erect and maintain suitable markers bearing the historic United States Routes designation, in compliance with the department’s signage standards.
  • Compliance: Markers and signage would be installed and maintained in accordance with MassDOT standards, ensuring consistency with other highway signage practices.

When and how this would be implemented

  • Legislative action: The bill was introduced on February 27, 2025 (House Docket No. 1092) by Rep. Steven S. Howitt. It was referred to the Transportation Committee on the same date.
  • Legislative status: A hearing is scheduled for November 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM in room A-2.
  • Procedural context: The bill is part of the 194th General Court (2025-2026). A similar measure existed in the prior session (House No. 3337 of 2023-2024). Related filing HD 1092 is noted as replacing earlier actions.

Affected parties and potential impacts

  • MassDOT: Responsible for designation implementation, signage placement, and ongoing maintenance of markers.
  • Road users and communities along Routes 1, 20, and 6: Potential benefits include enhanced recognition of historic routes and opportunities for tourism and local heritage promotion.
  • Local governments along these routes: May engage with MassDOT regarding marker placement and related displays.

Additional notes

  • The bill uses a broad “in the Commonwealth” scope for the designation, implying the entire designated segments of Routes 1, 20, and 6 within Massachusetts.
  • No specific funding amounts or timelines for marker installation are provided in the text of the bill itself; implementation would depend on MassDOT budgeting and prioritization.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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