Anniversary

Like many large organizations or companies, ADOT has a internal publications aimed at keeping employees up-to-date on agency issues.

Back in July 1974, when the state legislature created the Arizona Department of Transportation when it combined the Arizona Highway Department, Arizona Aeronautics Department and motor vehicle services agency into one entity – ADOT – the employee newsletter Newsbeat was born.

It was 40 years ago that the Hattie B., aka the Puddle Jumper and the Sardine Express, helped saved the day when Salt River flooding knocked out most crossings.

During its 45 years, ADOT has been represented by four different logos. Here's a walk down memory lane of the images the agency has chosen.

Since 1974, ADOT has combined functions once handled by the Arizona Highway Department, the motor vehicle services agency and the Arizona Aeronautics Department. 

The big reorganization brought with it many new responsibilities for the department, including the addition of several new divisions.On July 1, 1974, the Arizona Highway Department officially became the Arizona Department of Transportation ... but the real shift involved much more than just a name change.

Before 1974, the Highway Department was centered on, well, highways. But when ADOT was born, the focus broadened to six divisions: Aeronautics, Highways, Administrative Services, Transportation Planning, Public Transit and Motor Vehicles.