State of Iowa: Proclamation

Executive Department

In the Name and by the Authority of the State of Iowa

Whereas,	on June 29, 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 to establish a 41,000-mile National System of Interstate and Defense Highways, known as the Interstate Highway System, and the Highway Revenue Act of 1956 to create a Highway Trust Fund; and
Whereas,	in 1990, the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways was renamed the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways to recognize President Eisenhower's role in the creation of the system; and
Whereas,	in 2006, this web of superhighways, now spanning a total of 46,876 miles throughout the United States, including nearly 800 miles in Iowa, has had a powerful and positive impact on the lives of Iowans and all Americans, and continues to serve as a symbol of our freedom; and
Whereas,	the Interstate Highway System has proven vital in transporting people and goods efficiently and safely, facilitating trade and economic expansion, improving access to jobs, promoting tourism and recreational opportunities, and aiding in our state and national system of defense and emergency preparedness; and
Whereas,	the ingenuity of Iowans continues to play a central role in building and maintaining the best and safest highway system in the world; and
Whereas,	this anniversary provides an occasion to both honor one of the largest public works achievements of all time and reflect on how it can remain effective in the years ahead:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, THOMAS J. VILSACK, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF IOWA, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM JUNE 2006

THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE INTERSTATE SYSTEM

In Iowa, and urge citizens to:

(1) recognize the achievements of state departments of transportation and the highway construction industry, including contractors, designers, engineers, laborers, materials producers, and equipment companies, for their contributions to the construction of the Interstate Highway System and the quality of life of the citizens of the United States; and

(2) encourage citizens, communities, government agencies, and other organizations to promote and participate in celebratory and educational activities marking this uniquely important and historic milestone.

IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I HAVE HERE­UNTO SUBSCRIBED MY NAME AND CAUSED THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF IOWA TO BE AFFIXED. DONE AT DES MOINES THIS 22ND DAY OF MAY IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD TWO THOUSAND SIX.

_________________________________
THOMAS J. VILSACK GOVERNOR

ATTEST:

CHESTER J. CULVER

SECRETARY OF STATE