August 16th was the 100^th birthday of Georgia Department of Transportation. Exactly a century ago—on August 16, 1916— the seeds were planted for what would grow into the Georgia DOT. The rutted dirt roads, not fit for bicycles and automobiles, were well on their way to becoming the paved infrastructure that is now the 10^thlargest in the nation.

The State Highway Department of Georgia was formally created by the Georgia legislature, as a result of the Federal Aid Road Act of 1916, which mandated formation of a state highway department in order to receive federal funds. In 1972, the State Highway Department of Georgia became the Georgia Department of Transportation.

From those dirt roads of 1916 to the paved roads crisscrossing the state in 1939 to today’s modern transportation system, Georgia DOT’s endeavors have improved mobility, enhanced quality of life and contributed to the economic development of Georgia. Innovations like intelligent transportation systems, the HERO program, express lanes, diverging diamond interchanges, fiber optics for incident management and a host of other achievements have contributed to Georgia’s recognition as a leader in transportation innovation.

Earlier this year, Gov. Nathan Deal signed a proclamation declaring 2016 as Georgia Department of Transportation’s Centennial Year and recognized Georgia DOT for constructing, maintaining and operating a transportation system that has increased mobility and enhanced quality of life while providing economic growth that continues to make Georgia the number one state for business.

Commissioner Russell R. McMurry said during the Centennial launch event held earlier this year, that Georgia DOT is proud of its legacy of employees striving to provide the best possible transportation system for Georgia’s citizens. He also recently contemplated the future.

“While a centennial is a time to reflect on the past, it is also a time to look ahead to new challenges,” Commissioner McMurry said. “Drones, connected vehicles, self-driving cars - these are just a few of the evolving technologies that will have a tremendous impact on transportation in the not-too-distant future. In the next century, Georgia DOT will continue to embrace change and rise to meet new challenges, break new barriers and positively affect more lives.”

Emily Dunn is chairman of the State Transportation Board.

“To reach this 100 year milestone took the tireless efforts of many people … those with vision, those with passion, those who took a stand,” Dunn said. “Georgia DOT thrives today and is set to do great things in the future.”