ATA Is a Premier Sponsor of Interstates’ 50th Anniversary

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merican Trucking Associations is taking to the road this week as part of a cross-country convoy commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Interstate Highway System.

As a premier sponsor of the 50th anniversary, ATA will host two tractor trailers in the re-enactment of the 1919 military convoy that inspired President Dwight Eisenhower to propose creation of the highway system.

The convoy, which begins next Friday in San Francisco and ends June 29 in Washington, D.C., will include a “Good Stuff. Trucks Bring It!” rig pulled by truckload carrier Werner Enterprises —also celebrating its 50th anniversary — and a Highway Watch truck in partnership with DaimlerChrysler, parent of truck maker Freightliner LLC.

Captains of ATA’s America’s Road Team, a group of professional truck drivers with superior driving skills, outstanding safety records and a desire to spread the word about safety, will drive the Highway Watch tractor trailer, ATA said.

ATA’s convoy participation marks just one event in a year-long series of proceedings designed to commemorate the interstates’ 50th anniversary. ATA President Bill Graves will represent trucking in an industry policy forum this month to examine the current state of the interstate system.

“Our participation reflects our commitment to ensuring that the next chapter of the American Interstate Highway system continues the economic and social progress of its first 50 years,” Graves said.