WASHINGTON (July 13) – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) will highlight a classic car that two Birmingham men drove cross-country to promote alternative fuels during an event at the U.S. Capitol grounds tomorrow (Wednesday, July 14). 

 Bachus worked to have the 1966 Pontiac GTO which Mark McConville and Keith Barfield drove across the length of Route 66, “America’s Highway,” displayed in front of the reflecting pool at the West Front of the Capitol from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

 The car was retrofitted to run on compressed natural gas (CNG) during the 2,460 mile trip from California to Chicago, Illinois. 

“The trip was a great adventure for Mark and Keith, but it also played a key role in raising awareness about the potential of alternative fuels.  This is a real-world example of how we can reduce our dependence on foreign oil using American technology and ingenuity.  Congress can learn some important lessons from their experiences and it’s my hope this will help us to shape a more effective national energy policy,” said Congressman Bachus, who has promoted the development of the I-65 Clean Corridor in Alabama to lessen oil dependence and reduce pollution. 

Bachus will be present at the event from approximately 10:15-10:45 a.m. to greet Mark McConville and discuss energy policy.  The vehicle will be on display from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.  

            The media is welcome to cover the event. 

WHO:              Congressman Spencer Bachus                                   

WHAT:           View display of alternative fuel vehicle driven by Birmingham residents

                        Mark McConville and Keith Barfield the length of Route 66 

WHEN:          Wednesday, July 14, approximately 10:15 – 10:45 a.m.

WHERE:        Maryland Avenue SW in front of the reflecting pool, U.S. Capitol. 

CONTACT:   Tim Johnson, Bachus Press Secretary, 202-226-6269, 703-927-5791

                        John Procter, Communications Director, NGVsNow, 202-213-7233