Tracey re-elected Vice President of Intertribal Transportation Association

On Dec. 4, during the 11th Annual Intertribal Transportation Association conference, Willie Tracey Jr. was re-elected as the Vice President of ITA for a second two-year term. Tracey, the Council Delegate representing Ganado and Kinlichee Chapters, is a member of the 20th Navajo Nation Council's Transportation & Community Development Committee.

The Intertribal Transportation Association was established in 1995 to assist tribal entities on the unique evolution of transportation activities to improve roads and bridges in Indian Country. ITA represents the 562 federally recognized tribes from throughout the United States.

One of the more recent significant accomplishments is appearing before the National Council of Americans Indian to solicit their support on unifying ITA and NCAI's transportation issues while lobbying for a new highway.

"Lobbying for added funds certainly is a challenge, but in the new highway bill, Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient, Transportation Equity Act -- A Legacy for Users (SAFETEA-LU), the association was successful in urging the U.S. Congress to increase appropriations for transportation system needs in Indian country," Tracey said.

Tracey has effectively been involved in the effort to promote improved routes on the Navajo Nation, to pave the dirt roads and maintain existing asphalt roads, and has been very instrumental in lobbying on behalf of youth to improve school bus routes.

Tracey's commented upon re-election, "When you give an individual an opportunity, they will excel beyond known potential. Honorable Speaker Morgan gave me the opportunity to use my experience effectively while addressing transportation system needs on the reservation based on my ability to work with all Indian communities. It gives me confidence to know that I am trusted. I certainly will strive onward to do as much as I can to help the Navajo Nation and our brotherly and sisterly tribes. I am only able to obtain quality communication through team work. Without them (tribes), I cannot accomplish anything."

(Karen Francis is Public Information Officer for the Navajo Nation office of the Speaker.)

Donate to nhonews.com Report a Typo Contact
Most Read