The 2013 infrastructure report card for the U.S. is out and doesn't look good as a result of lots of deferred maintenance over many years. Let's face it, infrastructure is often invisible, and even when it is not, it is most often just not a very sexy topic. And public spending over the last 40-50 years has echoed that sentiment with public infrastructure investment in 2013 half of what it was fifty years ago in terms of percentage of the gross domestic product (GDP).
But with a nearly failing grade, it is time to sink more resources into upgrading our nation's infrastructure, creating more jobs, and creating more sustainable conections that, from the ground up keep our homes, businesses, cities and economies connected and working. Infrastructure is essential to support healthy, vibrant communities and is critical for long-term economic growth, increasing GDP, employment, household income, and exports.
Infrastructure is the foundation that connects the nation’s businesses, communities, and people, driving our economy and improving our quality of life. The U.S. economy has been one of the strongest, most vibrant in the world because of the infastructure investment made during the depression.
It is also an opportunity to incorporate sustainability measures to maximize the investment for our long-term viability – creating solar roads that move people and goods efficiently, produce renewable power for our homes and electric cars.
