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Bottineau, N.D. (AP) Backers of the Turtle Mountains Scenic Byway project say it's slowly taking shape as a tourism route.

State Highway 43 through Rolette and Bottineau counties was designated as a scenic byway more than 10 years ago.

Mae Streich of Bottineau is the co-chairwoman for the project.

She says it is improving but "it's slow going and it's costly." The 53-mile byway runs through the Turtle Mountains and prairie near the International Peace Garden on the Canadian border.

Bottineau and Rolette counties are seeking national recognition for the byway, which would allow the counties to apply for federal money.

Turtle Mountains artist Bennett Brien has created Sculptures at both ends of the byway. An interpretive center is planned.

The Federal Highway Administration awarded $550,000 this year to the Sitting Bull Visitor Information Center and $60,000 to the Sheyenne River Valley Corridor Management Plan under its scenic byways program.

Information from: Minot Daily News, http://www.minotdailynews.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-11-09 0800CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list