"Modern multi-lane freeways with tempting 55-mph-an-hour signs rendered moot the saying 'It is not the destination, but the journey.' Suddenly the latter became all important, the former passe."

Guess what? Those modern freeways weren't opened with 55 mph speed limits. When they took over for Route 66, the limits were between 65 and 80 mph, which better explains why the old two-lane became obsolete for long-distance travel.