From the roads we drive every day, to the walking paths and sports courts, to the runways and critical infrastructure that keep communities moving, asphalt is a foundation of our world.
On Asphalt Day, May 15, World of Asphalt and AGG1 celebrate the people, innovation and expertise behind one of the nation’s most essential industries.
According to the National Asphalt Pavement Association (NAPA), the asphalt industry provides 350,000 direct jobs in the United States. Data shows that, of the 2.8 million mi. of paved roads in the U.S., about 94 percent are surfaced with asphalt. Approximately $14 trillion worth of goods, about 70 percent of all freight, are transported annually on the nation’s roads, highlighting the essential role asphalt plays in supporting daily life across the country.
“For a century and a half, asphalt has been the literal foundation of America’s transportation infrastructure, providing the essential connectivity that makes our way of life possible,” NAPA President and CEO Audrey Copeland saids. “On Asphalt Day, we celebrate this legacy by honoring the innovators of yesterday, today and tomorrow who have made World of Asphalt a centerpiece of industry progress for more than 20 years. We look forward to continuing this tradition of sustainable progress when we gather in New Orleans next spring to showcase the asphalt paving technologies of the future.”
Nearly 100 percent of these asphalt surfaces are recyclable. Asphalt pavement is the most recycled material in the country, saving resources and taxpayer funds when reused in new pavement surfaces.
“We are proud to celebrate National Asphalt Day, honoring the significance of this construction material and the dedicated workers who create and build our nation’s infrastructure,” National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) President and CEO Michele Stanley said. “Aggregates make up 90–95 percent of the material in traditional asphalt mixtures and are considered the backbone of the mix. That’s why our AGG1 show is such a critical hub for learning and innovation across the industry.”
As the leading asphalt trade show and education conference, World of Asphalt and AGG1 play a vital role in advancing the industry and the nation. The event brings together producers, contractors, equipment manufacturers and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge technology, best practices and solutions shaping the future of asphalt production and paving.
“Asphalt is more than a material, it’s an industry built on expertise, collaboration and progress,” World of Asphalt Show Director Brittany Schmidtke said. “World of Asphalt is proud to celebrate Asphalt Day and provide a platform where this community can come together to learn, network and grow.”
World of Asphalt and AGG1 serves as a hub for innovation, spotlighting advancements in sustainability, safety, workforce development and efficiency while providing the education and connections that help professionals succeed long after the show floor closes.
On National Asphalt Day, World of Asphalt and AGG1 encourage industry professionals and the public to recognize the crews, companies and engineers who build and maintain the infrastructure that powers everyday life and to look ahead at the innovations paving the way for the next generation.
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