news release page banner

Sept. 29 , 2005

For more information contact:
Dena Gray-Fisher
515-239-1922
dena.grayfisher@dot.iowa.gov

Iowa DOT Seeks Interstate-Building Stories

AMES , Iowa --- June 29, 2006, will mark the 50 th anniversary of the signing of the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, which resulted in the creation of the National System of Interstate and Defense Highways. To assist in raising consciousness about the highway system, which profoundly changed our society and the way we move people and goods, the Iowa Department of Transportation has established a project to record the stories of those individuals and businesses that played a role in building Iowa 's interstate highways.

“An increasing percentage of Iowans living today cannot remember our nation without an Interstate System, often taking it for granted,” said DOT spokeswoman Dena Gray-Fisher. “That's why it's so important to capture the stories of those that helped build the system, which ultimately boosted our economy, sparked new categories of tourism, and increased travel options and convenience.”

The Department of Transportation wants to hear from men and women who were involved in any aspect of Iowa 's interstate-building era, which spanned from 1956 through 1985. Perhaps it was a summer job, lifetime career, or fondly remembered time of your life. Activities could involve:

  • Planning
  • Survey
  • Design
  • Engineering
  • Construction contracting (grading, paving, bridge building, etc.)
  • Materials supplier
  • Materials testing
  • Construction labor and equipment operator
  • Construction inspection
  • Equipment manufacturer or supplier
  • Consultant

Stories may be mailed to the Iowa DOT at the address below or entered online at www.iowainterstate50th.com . Photographs are also welcome.

Interstate Stories
Director's Staff Division
Iowa Department of Transportation
800 Lincoln Way
Ames , IA 50010

Stories and photographs submitted will become the property of the State of Iowa and may appear on the DOT's Web site, or in newsletters, trade magazines or other promotional materials.

#