What was the name of the most important through highway in Oregon during this period, passing through nine of the state’s largest cities?
- Columbia River Highway
- Pacific Highway
- John Day River Highway
- Old Oregon Trail
Correct Answer: Pacific Highway
Correct Answer Explanation: The Pacific Highway was considered the most important through highway in Oregon, connecting major cities and facilitating transportation across the state.
Which highway was the only year-round link between Eastern and Western Oregon, serving as a vital commercial route and a world-famous scenic destination?
- Columbia River Highway
- Pacific Highway
- John Day River Highway
- Old Oregon Trail
Correct Answer: Columbia River Highway
Correct Answer Explanation: The Columbia River Highway, completed in 1916, was a significant achievement in road engineering, offering a scenic and efficient route through the Columbia River Gorge.
What was the primary reason for the significant increase in the number of registered motor vehicles in Oregon during this time period?
- The growth of the automobile industry
- The expansion of the state’s highway system
- The decline in public transportation
- The increasing demand for personal transportation
Correct Answer: The growth of the automobile industry
Correct Answer Explanation: The rapid rise of the automobile industry across the nation led to an increase in car ownership and a corresponding need for improved road infrastructure.
What was the total amount of federal aid allocated to Oregon for Post Roads from July 1, 1916, to July 1, 1921?
- $638,970
- $1,180,310
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
Correct Answer: $1,180,310
Correct Answer Explanation: The Federal Aid Road Act allocated a significant amount of funding for Post Roads, which were roads used for mail delivery, and Oregon received a substantial portion of that funding.
Which project involved grading a challenging 9.7-mile section through Canyon Creek Pass on the Pacific Highway, eliminating one of the worst stretches between Portland and the California line?
- The Salem Bridge
- Clackamas County’s New Era Hill Grading
- Canyonville-Galesville Forest Road Project
- The Prescott Hill Section (Columbia County)
Correct Answer: Canyonville-Galesville Forest Road Project
Correct Answer Explanation: The Canyonville-Galesville Forest Road Project was a significant undertaking that improved the Pacific Highway, making travel between Portland and California safer and more efficient.
What type of road surfacing was used for the Wild Horse Paving project in Umatilla County?
- Waterbound macadam
- Cinder macadam
- Bitulithic pavement
- Gravel surfacing
Correct Answer: Bitulithic pavement
Correct Answer Explanation: Bitulithic pavement, known for its durability and suitability for heavy traffic areas, was used for the Wild Horse Paving project, indicating the importance of this section of road for transportation.
What was the primary impact of World War I on highway construction in Oregon?
- Increased funding for road projects
- Increased demand for labor
- Shortage of materials and labor
- Expansion of the state’s highway system
Correct Answer: Shortage of materials and labor
Correct Answer Explanation: World War I significantly impacted the availability of resources, especially labor and materials, creating challenges for highway construction projects in Oregon.
How many miles of macadamized roads were completed during this period?
- 50 miles
- 111.8 miles
- 134.5 miles
- 40 miles
Correct Answer: 111.8 miles
Correct Answer Explanation: The report highlights the significant progress made in building macadamized roads, a common type of road surfacing during this period, with 111.8 miles completed in total.
What was the estimated cost of the Salem Bridge project?
- $250,000
- $488,302.15
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
Correct Answer: $250,000
Correct Answer Explanation: The Salem Bridge, a significant intercounty connection spanning the Willamette River, represented a considerable investment in the state’s infrastructure.
What was the average cost per mile of cinder macadam used for the road between Bend and LaPine?
- $2.88
- $3.86
- $1,600
- $1.84
Correct Answer: $1,600
Correct Answer Explanation: Cinder macadam, a durable and cost-effective road surfacing material, was used for the road between Bend and LaPine, providing an essential connection in a challenging terrain.
What does “Force Account” refer to in the context of highway construction?
- Using private contractors for construction projects
- Using state-owned equipment for construction projects
- Obtaining funding from the federal government for construction projects
- Performing construction work directly with state employees and equipment
Correct Answer: Performing construction work directly with state employees and equipment
Correct Answer Explanation: The Commission used its own employees and equipment for certain projects, finding it cost-effective and allowing for greater control over the construction process.
Which of the following was NOT a major challenge faced by the Oregon State Highway Commission during the period covered by the report?
- The scarcity of construction materials
- The growing number of automobiles in the state
- The strict regulations surrounding Federal Aid projects
- The reluctance of county governments to cooperate with the Commission
Correct Answer: The reluctance of county governments to cooperate with the Commission
Correct Answer Explanation: The report highlights a strong working relationship between the State Highway Commission and county governments, showcasing collaboration in infrastructure development.
What was the name of the preformed expansion joint used in concrete pavement, mentioned in the report?
- Bitulithic
- Elastite
- Overhaul
- Cinder Macadam
Correct Answer: Elastite
Correct Answer Explanation: Elastite was a type of expansion joint, used in concrete pavement to prevent cracking and ensure structural integrity, reflecting the attention to detail and innovative construction techniques used during this period.
What does “Overhaul” refer to in the context of road construction?
- The cost of transporting excavated material to a fill location beyond a specified distance
- The process of widening a roadbed
- The use of a rock crusher for breaking down large rocks
- The construction of retaining walls to prevent landslides
Correct Answer: The cost of transporting excavated material to a fill location beyond a specified distance
Correct Answer Explanation: Overhaul was a crucial factor in road construction costs, as it involved moving materials significant distances, impacting budget and project efficiency.
Which project involved heavy rock excavation and the use of a state-owned rock crusher, demonstrating the Commission’s ability to handle large-scale construction?
- Canyonville-Galesville Forest Road Project
- The Salem Bridge
- Clackamas County’s New Era Hill Grading
- The Prescott Hill Section (Columbia County)
Correct Answer: Clackamas County’s New Era Hill Grading
Correct Answer Explanation: The New Era Hill Grading project involved significant excavation and the utilization of state-owned equipment, highlighting the Commission’s capacity to undertake complex and demanding construction tasks.
What was the total number of bridges constructed by the Commission during this period?
- 50
- 111.8
- 134.5
- 40
Correct Answer: 40
Correct Answer Explanation: The report indicates that the Commission built 40 bridges during the 1916-1918 period, showcasing their commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and connecting communities.
What type of contract did the Commission use for some projects, where they were reimbursed for their costs plus a predetermined percentage?
- Force Account Contract
- Cost Plus Contract
- Federal Aid Contract
- County Contract
Correct Answer: Cost Plus Contract
Correct Answer Explanation: Cost Plus contracts provided flexibility in handling projects where bids were not satisfactory or when the Commission had to take on the construction themselves due to market conditions.
What was the primary focus of the Commission’s efforts regarding Forest Road projects?
- Building new roads within National Forests
- Maintaining existing roads within National Forests
- Connecting National Forests to major highways
- Providing access to timber resources within National Forests
Correct Answer: Providing access to timber resources within National Forests
Correct Answer Explanation: While Forest Roads were intended for various purposes, a significant focus was on providing access to timber resources for logging and other industries, reflecting the economic importance of forestry in Oregon during this time.
Which project involved extensive grading, rock excavation, and the installation of culverts, illustrating the challenges of building roads in mountainous terrain?
- The Butte Creek Summit Section (Wheeler County)
- The Grande Ronde Section (Yamhill County)
- Sheridan Paving (Yamhill County)
- The Hood River Bridge
Correct Answer: The Butte Creek Summit Section (Wheeler County)
Correct Answer Explanation: The Butte Creek Summit Section involved constructing a road through a challenging mountainous terrain, showcasing the Commission’s ability to overcome obstacles and create vital connections in difficult locations.
What was the average cost per cubic yard of gravel surfacing used for the road between Hood River and Cascade Locks?
- $1.84
- $2.88
- $3.86
- $1,600
Correct Answer: $2.88
Correct Answer Explanation: Gravel surfacing was a common and cost-effective method for improving roads, and the average cost per cubic yard provides insight into the budget considerations for different types of road surfacing.
Which project involved a significant road improvement, demonstrating the importance of connecting the Willamette Valley with the coast?
- The Butte Creek Summit Section (Wheeler County)
- The Grande Ronde Section (Yamhill County)
- Sheridan Paving (Yamhill County)
- The Hood River Bridge
Correct Answer: The Grande Ronde Section (Yamhill County)
Correct Answer Explanation: The Grande Ronde Section project connected the Willamette Valley with the coast, demonstrating the importance of establishing efficient transportation routes for commerce and trade between different regions of Oregon.
What was the primary purpose of the Hood River-Mosier Surveys?
- To determine the best route for a new highway
- To identify potential locations for bridges
- To assess the availability of construction materials
- To evaluate the economic impact of a new highway
Correct Answer: To determine the best route for a new highway
Correct Answer Explanation: The Hood River-Mosier Surveys were conducted to carefully evaluate different routes for a new highway, considering factors like accessibility, construction challenges, and scenic views, ensuring the most efficient and strategic route was chosen.
What was the name of the largest bridge built by the Commission in Oregon at the time, constructed with concrete arches?
- The Salem Bridge
- The Hood River Bridge
- The Butte Creek Summit Section
- The Grande Ronde Section
Correct Answer: The Hood River Bridge
Correct Answer Explanation: The Hood River Bridge was a significant engineering feat, showcasing the Commission’s ability to construct impressive bridges that improved transportation and connected communities.
What does the term “Post Road” refer to in the context of the Federal Aid Road Act?
- Roads used for mail delivery service
- Roads within National Forests
- Roads connecting major cities
- Roads built with state funds
Correct Answer: Roads used for mail delivery service
Correct Answer Explanation: Post Roads were specifically designated for mail delivery, either rural or star routes, and were eligible for federal funding under the Federal Aid Road Act.
What was the total amount of funds expended by the Commission during this period?
- $4,271,515.16
- $3,597,982.47
- $709,724.79
- $1,409,993.24
Correct Answer: $3,597,982.47
Correct Answer Explanation: The Commission’s financial report provides details about the total funds available and the amount expended, showing their commitment to effectively managing resources and allocating them to critical infrastructure projects.
What was the name of the type of road surfacing made from crushed stone bound together by water and compacted with rollers?
- Bitulithic pavement
- Waterbound Macadam
- Cinder Macadam
- Gravel surfacing
Correct Answer: Waterbound Macadam
Correct Answer Explanation: Waterbound macadam was a commonly used road surfacing method, relying on the compaction of crushed stone to create a durable and resilient surface for transportation.
What was the primary purpose of the Sheridan Paving project in Yamhill County?
- To build a new road connecting the city of Sheridan to a major highway
- To improve an existing road using state-owned equipment and innovative construction techniques
- To demonstrate the benefits of using gravel surfacing instead of macadam
- To showcase the Commission’s ability to construct bridges over rivers
Correct Answer: To improve an existing road using state-owned equipment and innovative construction techniques
Correct Answer Explanation: The Sheridan Paving project highlights the Commission’s commitment to utilizing state-owned equipment, stockpiles for materials, and innovative construction techniques to enhance existing roads efficiently and cost-effectively.
What was the average cost per square yard of concrete pavement used for the Ashland Hill section?
- $1.84
- $2.88
- $3.86
- $1,600
Correct Answer: $1.84
Correct Answer Explanation: Concrete pavement was a more durable and long-lasting road surface compared to gravel or macadam, but also had higher costs per square yard, reflecting the trade-offs in construction choices.
How many stars were on the Department’s Service Flag, representing the number of Commission employees who were serving in World War I?
- 40
- 50
- 60
- 111.8
Correct Answer: 60
Correct Answer Explanation: The Service Flag displayed 60 stars, representing the Commission employees who were serving in World War I, acknowledging their contribution to the national effort while continuing to maintain and improve the state’s road infrastructure.
What was the largest single-county expenditure made by the Commission during this period?
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
- $488,302.15
- $250,000
Correct Answer: $488,302.15
Correct Answer Explanation: Columbia County received the largest share of the Commission’s expenditures, reflecting the importance of road projects in that county and the Commission’s commitment to improving transportation across the entire state.
What was the primary focus of the Commission’s work, as described in the report?
- Building new roads across the state
- Maintaining existing roads
- Connecting major cities
- Providing access to timber resources
Correct Answer: Building new roads across the state
Correct Answer Explanation: The report highlights the Commission’s dedication to expanding and improving Oregon’s highway system by constructing new roads, prioritizing essential trunk routes and connecting different regions of the state.
What was the main challenge faced by the Commission in securing Federal Aid for road projects?
- Lack of funding from the federal government
- The strict regulations and interpretation of the Federal Aid Road Law
- The reluctance of county governments to cooperate
- The growing number of automobiles
Correct Answer: The strict regulations and interpretation of the Federal Aid Road Law
Correct Answer Explanation: The Commission encountered difficulties in securing federal aid for many projects due to the specific regulations and interpretations of the Federal Aid Road Law, illustrating the complexities of obtaining funding from the federal government.
What was the estimated total cost of all Post Road projects in Oregon during this period?
- $1,180,310
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
- $709,724.79
Correct Answer: $1,409,993.24
Correct Answer Explanation: Post Road projects, which were roads used for mail delivery, required significant investment, and the total estimated cost reflects the substantial infrastructure improvements undertaken during this period.
What was the name of the type of road surfacing made from volcanic cinder, a lightweight and durable material?
- Bitulithic pavement
- Waterbound Macadam
- Cinder Macadam
- Gravel surfacing
Correct Answer: Cinder Macadam
Correct Answer Explanation: Cinder macadam was a cost-effective and durable road surfacing material, particularly useful in areas with volcanic rock deposits, showcasing the innovative use of local resources for road construction.
What was the total estimated cost of all Forest Road projects in Oregon during this period?
- $1,180,310
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
- $709,724.79
Correct Answer: $1,246,204.65
Correct Answer Explanation: Forest Roads were essential for accessing timber resources and other activities within National Forests, and the estimated cost reflects the investment in improving these roads for economic and environmental purposes.
What was the total number of miles of graded roadbeds completed by the Commission during this period?
- 50
- 111.8
- 134.5
- 40
Correct Answer: 134.5
Correct Answer Explanation: Grading roadbeds was a crucial step in road construction, preparing the foundation for surfacing and ensuring proper drainage, and the total mileage of graded roadbeds completed demonstrates the significant progress made in improving road infrastructure.
What was the primary focus of the Commission in completing the Columbia River Highway and the Pacific Highway during this period?
- Creating scenic routes for tourism
- Connecting major cities for commerce
- Providing access to timber resources
- Ensuring efficient transportation during wartime
Correct Answer: Ensuring efficient transportation during wartime
Correct Answer Explanation: The Commission prioritized completing the Columbia River Highway and the Pacific Highway, which were vital transportation routes, to ensure efficient movement of goods and people during the challenging period of World War I.
What was the total amount of federal aid available to Oregon for Forest Roads from July 1, 1916, to July 1, 1921?
- $638,970
- $1,180,310
- $1,409,993.24
- $1,246,204.65
Correct Answer: $638,970
Correct Answer Explanation: The Federal Aid Road Act provided funding for both Post Roads and Forest Roads, and Oregon received a significant amount of federal aid for improving Forest Roads, reflecting the importance of these roads for various economic activities.
What was the total number of motor vehicles registered in Oregon in 1918?
- 4,317
- 63,318
- 709,724.79
- 1,180,310
Correct Answer: 63,318
Correct Answer Explanation: The rapid increase in automobile ownership during this period reflects the growing demand for personal transportation and the importance of developing a robust highway system to accommodate this growth.
What was the average cost per cubic yard of broken stone macadam used for the road between Svensen and Westport?
- $1.84
- $2.88
- $3.86
- $1,600
Correct Answer: $3.86
Correct Answer Explanation: The use of broken stone macadam for road construction involved specific costs per cubic yard, reflecting the materials and labor required for this type of road surfacing.