Anderson's Corner, Virginia facts for kids

Anderson's Corner, Virginia is a small area located in James City County. It is close to the community of Toano. This spot is found where two important roads meet: U.S. Route 60 and State Route 30.

For many years, Anderson's Corner was a key point for travelers. It marked the start of State Route 168. This was a new four-lane highway built before World War II. It was also known as the Merrimack Trail. The road helped handle the heavy traffic on Route 60. Traffic had increased because of the Colonial Williamsburg Restoration. This project was supported by Abby and John D. Rockefeller Jr.. Route 168 also helped connect the growing Virginia Peninsula area. It linked to roads in South Hampton Roads using a harbor ferry.

The Story of Route 168

Connecting Virginia and North Carolina

Route 168 was very important for connecting different areas. On the south side of the harbor, it linked up with Route 168 in North Carolina. This connection led to popular vacation spots like the Outer Banks resorts.

New Roads and Designations

Over time, parts of Route 168 changed. When the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel opened in 1957, it was first called Route 168. This was a new two-lane road that made travel easier. After World War II, a new road called Tidewater Drive also became part of the Route 168 system.

The Arrival of Interstate 64

In the late 1950s and 1960s, parts of Interstate 64 were built. Sometimes, these new sections were temporarily called Route 168. This happened until I-64 was fully open and widely used. Eventually, the Route 168 name was shortened. It only covered the area south of the bridge-tunnel. Parts of the old Route 168 became local roads. These included frontage roads and sections of State Routes 30 and State Route 143.

Anderson's Corner Today

After Interstate 64 opened, Anderson's Corner became much quieter. Less tourist and through traffic passed through. This was a common change for many older business areas across the United States during the mid-20th century.

See Also

• Merrimack Trail
• Route 168 (Virginia)