History

The I-49 International Coalition was organized in December, 2002, joining groups in Louisiana, Arkansas and Missouri (each promoting its local unfinished section of I-49), to collectively promote completion of the entire High Priority Corridor from Kansas City to New Orleans. The Coalition included “International” in its name because Interstate 29 already exists from Kansas City to Winnipeg, Canada, and completing I-49 from Kansas City to New Orleans will create a 1,700-mile uninterrupted Interstate Trade Corridor from Canada through the heart of America to New Orleans - - and, through the Port System of Louisiana, to Central/ South America and points beyond through the expanding Panama Canal. 

Along the way, this North-South Interstate route will intersect 9 existing East-West Interstate highways to create a comprehensive transportation grid that will enhance the movement of food, goods, energy and people to and from anywhere in mid-America and the rest of the world.

The I-49 International Coalition presently has over 100 members: cities, counties, Chambers of Commerce, associations, businesses and individuals - - and welcomes additional members who share our interests.

For additional information, contact Gard Wayt, Executive Director,

I-49 International Coalition, at (318) 207-1292 or gardwayt@aol.com.

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