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Rep. Frank Wolf(TT File Photo)Support for creation of a federal agency devoted solely to truck safety grew last week during a long-awaited congressional hearing on who in the Department of Transportation should oversee the industry. ATA and other industry groups endorsed establishing a federal trucking administration.

TravelCenters of America will acquire Travel Ports of America for about $40.5 million, the companies announced late last week.

The nation’s governors last week urged Congress and the administration to spend the maximum amount possible on highway and other transportation programs.

The Canam Manac Group of Boucherville, Quebec, has agreed to sell its truck trailer manufacturing division to Great Dane L.P. for $87.5 million.

Rep. Frank Wolf (R-Va.) threatened last week to seek a Justice Department investigation of illegal lobbying by senior officials at the former Office of Motor Carriers unless they are fired.

The owners of a trucking company in Hartsville, S.C., and two of their drivers were sentenced for a scheme that put unqualified drivers behind the wheels of commercial trucks.

The Surface Transportation Board is up to full strength after the Senate voted Feb. 24 to confirm the nominations of William Clyburn and Wayne Burkes.

Reforming federal hours-of-service regulations tops American Trucking Associations’ safety agenda for 1999, according to ATA President Walter B. McCormick Jr.

Peterbilt PhotoPeterbilt has launched a new truck model, the 387 (pictured), with two configurations aimed at the regional and long-haul markets. The company said the 387 represents a more viable product to compete in the “aero” market.

James P. Hoffa has postponed plans for his inauguration on March 6, but is moving closer to officially taking over as president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.