“Whether operating a company truck, a leased truck, or owning a truck, National Carriers appreciates these three outstanding delivery experts,” said Ed Kentner, director of media at NCI. Each has an exceptional safety record and puts the motoring public’s well-being at the forefront of all they do. Together, these men uphold the high standards of the ‘Elite’ fleet.”

The newly announced finalists are Rafael Murillo, Willie Grady III, and Bernard Talimeliyor. Each earned the title of Driver of the Month for May, June, and July, along with a $1,000 bonus. They now join the running for NCI’s Driver of the Year, which includes a $10,000 award to be presented in March 2026.

Rafael Murillo – May Driver of the Month

Based in Liberal, Kansas, owner-operator Rafael Murillo hauls freight in NCI’s national refrigerated fleet. Murillo first joined the company as a student driver and worked his way up, excelling behind the wheel while earning a reputation for exceptional customer service. After gaining experience as a company driver, he advanced to become an owner-operator, a role where he continues to thrive.

Willie Grady III – June Driver of the Month

Willie Grady III, of Keene, Texas, was recognized in June for his consistent performance as a lease operator. Since joining NCI in 2020, Grady has built a strong track record delivering across the Midwest and Southern states. With a reputation for reliability, strong safety standards, and a positive attitude, he is admired by colleagues and customers alike.

Bernard Talimeliyor – July Driver of the Month

Operating a company truck in the national refrigerated division, Bernard Talimeliyor has also secured a finalist spot. A retired U.S. Army veteran originally from the South Pacific island of Yap, Talimeliyor now lives in Irving, Texas. His cross-country hauls keep frozen goods moving safely and efficiently coast to coast, reflecting the professionalism that NCI celebrates.

These three drivers join a growing list of finalists announced earlier this year, with the ultimate Driver of the Year honor still to come. NCI’s recognition program highlights the company’s commitment to safety, customer satisfaction, and the individuals who keep freight moving nationwide.

Image Source: NCI reveals the latest finalists for 2025 Driver of the Year. From left, Bernard Talimeliyor, Rafael Murillo, and Willie Grady III.
Source: The Trucker

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The construction management contract for this monumental project has been awarded to Kiewit Infrastructure South Co., a firm known for successfully handling complex transportation initiatives.

A Vision for the Future

Deputy Governor and Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Commissioner Butch Eley expressed optimism about the project, stating, “This project is building a stronger future for Tennessee. We are thrilled to partner with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Arkansas, and now Kiewit, whose proven track record will be invaluable to the success of this transformative project to enhance regional and national connectivity and safety significantly. We look forward to its positive impact on our state and country for decades to come.”

The current I-55 bridge, which was constructed 75 years ago, is anticipated to serve approximately 64,000 vehicles per day by 2050, emphasizing the necessity of this modernization effort.

Funding America’s River Crossing

The bridge, famously known as America’s River Crossing, is one of the major infrastructure projects backed by federal funding. A $400 million federal grant and $200 million contributions from Arkansas and Tennessee make this endeavor the most expansive transportation investment in Tennessee’s history, per TDOT.

ARDOT Director Jared Wiley commended the collaborative effort, saying, “The Arkansas Department of Transportation is pleased to partner with TDOT to construct a modern structure on a corridor that conveys many critical goods and services through the heart of our nation each day. We are thankful that TDOT was able to secure this historic grant award and are confident in Kiewit’s ability to deliver the project on time and budget.”

Preparing for Construction

According to Tennessee Department of Transportation officials, the environmental evaluation for the project is almost finished, and design work is already in progress. Coordination for right-of-way acquisition is expected to start later this year, with construction anticipated to commence during fiscal year 2026.

Dave Miles, executive vice president of Kiewit Corporation, also emphasized the company’s commitment to excellence, stating, “Kiewit is very pleased to have been selected to help deliver the bridge replacement project for the Tennessee and Arkansas Departments of Transportation. We have a long history of safely building and engineering complex bridge and transportation projects across the United States, including in both states. We are excited to bring our experience and skilled workforce to this project, which importantly connects both states for people within and traveling through the region.”

Additional information about the I-55 bridge replacement project is available online.

Source: Land Line

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