In 1976, as part of the bicentennial celebration, ten abstract sculptures were commissioned to be placed in rest areas along I-80. The project is known as Nebraska's 500 Mile Sculpture Garden. Due to funding problems two of the sculptures were never completed. The abstract nature of the pieces was controversial but the eight completed works have become a well loved part of the Nebraska landscape.
Roadway Confluence stands in a hilltop westbound I-80 rest area just east of Sydney, Nebraska. Hans Van De Bovenkamp described his large stainless steel work as symbolic of the confluence of roadways - intertwining lines that undulate, widen and narrow as the perspective one perceives traveling through the Nebraska countryside of rolling hills.
This hollow and relatively light weight sculpture had problems during its early years on this hilltop exposed to the strong western Nebraska winds. It became necessary to temporarily anchor it with unsightly cables until internal strengthening structure could be installed. But it now stands steady and can be seen on its high point as you approach from the east.
More information about the Bicentennial sculpture project, this sculpture and the others, can be found at Sheldon Art Gallery's website.Link