Final answer:
The Federal Highway Act led to economic difficulties for small towns bypassed by the interstate highways, the destruction of urban working-class neighborhoods, and a shift in funding away from public transportation, creating socioeconomic divides.
Step-by-step explanation:
One negative effect of the Federal Highway Act was the economic devastation that hit many small towns and businesses.
These communities suffered as the interstate highway system facilitated high-speed traffic that bypassed them, leading to a decline in local commerce particularly for those that once thrived on the passage of travelers.
Another significant impact was on urban areas, where the construction of these highways often led to the destruction of working-class neighborhoods, pushing residents out and contributing to a change in the urban landscape.
Moreover, this focus on highway construction drew funds away from public transportation. The reduced investment made it difficult for people without cars, often those of lower income, to access the suburbs, thereby contributing to socioeconomic divisions and impacting city resources.