U.S. Route 9

U.S. Route 9 is a federal highway that spans across several eastern states, connecting coastal communities and inland areas along its course. It runs through Delaware, New Jersey, and extends into New York, passing through farmland, small towns, and regions near water bodies.

The road was established in 1926 as part of the national highway system connecting the eastern seaboard. A ferry service across Delaware Bay opened in 1964, creating a direct link and making the route complete between the two states.

The road connects multiple coastal towns where the rhythm of daily life revolves around maritime trade, agriculture, and seasonal tourism. Visitors notice fishing boats, farm stands, and waterfront gathering spots that reflect how communities here depend on the ocean and local resources.

The road functions as a main evacuation route during hurricane season, which can lead to heavy traffic during peak times. Travelers passing through outside of summer months will experience easier driving conditions and fewer delays along this busy coastal corridor.

This route is one of only a handful of U.S. highways that incorporates a ferry crossing, using water transit to connect two states across Delaware Bay. Many drivers are surprised to learn the road actually continues by boat, making it an unusual experience among American highways.