What happened to towns located on Route 66 after the arrival of the highways?

The correct answer reflects a significant shift in American travel patterns after the completion of interstate highways, which provided faster and more efficient routes for motorists. Towns along Route 66 often experienced a decline in population and commerce as travelers opted for the speed and convenience of these new highways, leading to reduced economic activity in those areas. Many of these towns had previously thrived on the traffic that Route 66 generated, but the emergence of interstate highways pulled traffic away, causing businesses to suffer and sometimes leading to the abandonment of once-bustling main streets.

While some towns did find ways to adapt and attract tourists, the overall trend for many was a decrease in vitality as they became less relevant for long-distance travelers seeking quicker routes. This historical context illustrates the transformative impacts of highway development on local economies, especially for those reliant on road traffic.