Ep 37. The Atlantic Intercoastal Highway

The Atlantic Intracoastal Highway is an engineering marvel that stretches over 3,000 miles along the eastern shore of the United States. Modern Marvels Season 13 Episode 37 explores the history, construction, and modern-day uses of this unique transportation route.

The episode begins by introducing the concept of the Intracoastal Waterway, a series of natural and man-made canals that connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. The Atlantic Intracoastal Highway is a part of this waterway, running from Miami, Florida, to Norfolk, Virginia. The hosts highlight the importance of this waterway in terms of commerce, especially for the shipping industry. The waterway's estimated value is in excess of $50 billion in goods and services annually, including shipping of products like grain and petroleum.

The show then delves into the history of the Atlantic Intracoastal Highway, discussing the various challenges faced by the engineers who designed and constructed it. Highlights include stories of the challenges of building the Dismal Swamp Canal and the Chesapeake and Albemarle Canal, as well as the construction of various lock systems that allow vessels to pass from bayou to bayou without encountering rough seas.

From there, the episode examines how the highway has evolved over the years to keep pace with modern technology. The hosts explore upgrades like dredging the waterway for deeper channels, constructing concrete seawalls, and improving the locks themselves.

The episode also highlights some of the current uses of the Atlantic Intracoastal Highway, including recreational boating and eco-tourism. In fact, the waterway is home to some incredibly unique wildlife, including the American alligator, various species of sea turtles, and the iconic bottlenose dolphin. The show explores these marine animals up close, discussing how they live within the ecosystem the highway has created.

The Atlantic Intracoastal Highway episode would not be complete without featuring some of the brightest minds in engineering and ecology. The experts interviewed during this episode provide an in-depth look at the science of fluid dynamics, as well as the challenges of creating and maintaining a healthy ecosystem in the midst of major urban centers.

Finally, the episode closes by showcasing some of the best ways to experience the highway. This includes a look at some of the most luxurious yachts that use the waterway, as well as a look at popular fishing locations and must-visit ports. The episode culminates with an inside look at the world-famous Great Bridge Lock Park in Chesapeake, Virginia, where the technology and beauty of the Atlantic Intracoastal Highway come together to create an experience like no other.

Overall, the Atlantic Intracoastal Highway episode of Modern Marvels Season 13 offers a unique look at one of America's greatest engineering feats. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in history, engineering, and marine ecology, as well as anyone who simply wants to experience some of the most beautiful waterways in the world.