What term describes land acquired by the public for highway construction?

The term that describes land acquired by the public for highway construction is "Right of way." In the context of transportation and infrastructure, right of way refers to the legal right to pass through property owned by another party. It is a crucial concept in highway design and construction, as it encompasses the land needed for the roadway itself, shoulders, drainage, and other necessary features.

When a government entity seeks to build or expand highways, acquiring the right of way ensures they have the necessary land to do so legally and effectively. This process typically involves negotiations with landowners and may require compensation to those affected by the acquisition. The right of way is not just for the pavement of the road but includes all the elements that support safe and effective transportation.

In contrast, terms like land use agreement, easement, and public access carry different legal meanings and implications. A land use agreement typically refers to a contract between parties about how a piece of land will be used, an easement grants specific rights to use part of a property for a designated purpose (like utilities), and public access is more about ensuring that the public can reach a particular area rather than acquiring land for construction purposes. Thus, "right of way" is the most accurate term among the choices provided for