Since 1973, the "Backsights" series of essays on transportation history have appeared in various VDOT publications.  The present project would compile all of these articles from the inception of the series until mid-2006 together in a single publication with improved illustrations and a new index.  These articles cover a wide range of subject matter, ranging from topics specific to Virginia transportation through the years, through articles which place Virginia transportation in a national and international context.   Essays cover topics as diverse as short biographies of pioneering road and bridge builders, major early  highways in Virginia, early road and bridge specifications and building practices, and the role of women in 18th and 19th century transportation. 

The collection of articles will be re-issued both in a limited number of hard copy volumes, and in electronically accessible format (CD-ROM).  VDOT's Office of Public Affairs has expressed their interest in this project.