August 10

On August 10, 1954, U.S. and Canadian officials held a ceremonial groundbreaking in Massena, New York, to mark the start of construction on the Saint Lawrence Seaway. This monumental waterway project would connect the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes, opening up inland shipping routes for large vessels. The seaway involved building locks, dams, and channels across Ontario and New York State, and required extensive engineering feats. When completed in 1959, it transformed North American trade by allowing ocean-going ships to reach industrial centers like Duluth and Toronto. The project symbolized postwar cooperation between two nations and spurred economic growth in the region. Its legacy endures as a vital maritime corridor handling millions of tons of cargo annually.

On August 10, 2003, the Okinawa Urban Monorail, also known as Yui Rail, commenced operations in Naha, Okinawa. Stretching 12.9 kilometers with 15 stations, it became the first public rail system in Okinawa Prefecture. The monorail connects Naha Airport to central Naha and Shuri Castle, providing a reliable transportation option for residents and tourists. Its opening reduced road congestion and promoted economic development along the route. Since its inauguration, the Yui Rail has become an iconic symbol of Okinawa's modern infrastructure and a key part of daily commuting on the island.