Where did the word freeway come from?

Question

I know I read it somewhere, but I cannot find the answer. I also know it has something to do with the fact that a toll used to be charged. Help.

Answer 1

Freeway: Generally a freeway is a grade separated divided highway designed for high speeds. Contrary to popular belief, a freeway is not a highway "free" from tolls. The "free" in freeway instead refers to a legislative definition passed by the California Legislature in 1939 which provided for a highway that would be free of encroaching properties and which provided for control of access. At the time this was very controversial since property owners next to the road could have no rights of direct access.
---
Also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freeway

Answer 2

The word was coined during the 1950s when the Interstate Highway System came into being. Prior to that time 3 or 4 lane highways were almost always toll roads like the Garden State Highway. When the Interstate system was built the federal government paid 90% of the cost and the state paid 10%. One of the rules the feds imposed was that the states could not charge a toll to drive on the interstate. Hence the term Freeway.

Answer 3

Freeway means there are no stop lights or stop signs to impede your travel. You're "free to go." The toll-free idea also has merit, though I'm too lazy to Google the etymology of the word. I must say the English language is full of quaint silliness. For example, you drive on a parkway, and you park in a driveway.

Answer 4

I really don't know but I'm guessing that you have tollways, and you have freeways as in you don't have to pay. They're all highways.

Answer 5

Probably from the original construction of these roads, which were free from the ordinary obstructions that regular roads had, like pot holes, traffic lights and heavy traffic.

Answer 6

Yes, it's freeway as oppossed to tollway.

Answer 7

opposite of tollway. correct ding ding ding, u win. what was the prize. hope it made you smile!