The economic awakening of 60

If this convulsed decade was characterized by something, it was by the social and economic awakening that our country experienced after the long postwar lethargy.

Spain began this period mired in intense delay and isolation at all levels, but ended it with something more than large doses of optimism. During these years, there was a shift from a totally interventionist economic system to a more open market, which was also reflected in the development of the road network.

In the 60s, the AEC organized its I Seminar on Road Construction, which was well received by professionals in the sector.

At this time, it also launched other congresses, among which those relating to asphalt mixtures held at the Torroja Institute have great relevance and continuity.

However, from the activity of the AEC in these years, it is necessary to highlight without a doubt and from the rest of the initiatives the birth of the Road Week, a meeting that continues alive and in perfect shape today, and that has become in the forum par excellence of the road sector.

Despite the great successes achieved in this decade, the internal difficulties of the Association were inescapable. The associative fees were insufficient and the aid of the Public Administration scarce and sporadic. However, the dedicated and enthusiastic team that made up the AEC knew how to cope with the situation.

In 1966 the concession of the Medals of Honor of the road an award with which the AEC sought to recognize the work of all those people who with their work contribute to the improvement of roads. Today, the awarding of the Medals of Honor continues to be one of the great events held within the Association.

The Spanish Road Association ended the decade of the 60s with a great baggage behind it and loaded with new hopes and future projects. A clear example of the positioning achieved by the Association in these years are the 60 private companies that at that time were already part of its Economic Council.