The planning district lies in two physiographic provinces, the Blue Ridge and the Ridge and Valley. Major arteries of transportation include Interstates 81 and 77, while U.S. Highways 11, 21, 52, 58 and State Highways 16 and 42 also provide important transportation links. Characterized by scenic mountains and fertile valleys, the district offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities and a quality of life found only in rural America. The planning district lies in two physiographic provinces, the Blue Ridge and the Ridge and Valley. Major arteries of transportation include Interstates 81 and 77, while U.S. Highways 11, 21, 52, 58 and State Highways 16 and 42 also provide important transportation links. Characterized by scenic mountains and fertile valleys, the district offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities and a quality of life found only in rural America