The following is a statement by K.N. Gunalan “Guna,” Ph.D., P.E., President, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in response to the House passage of H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act:
Today, the House of Representatives prioritized modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure as part of America’s recovery. We commend the House for making infrastructure investment a priority by passing the $1.5 trillion Moving Forward Act (H.R. 2). This comprehensive legislation takes a holistic approach to investing in and modernizing all infrastructure sectors from roads and bridges, to ports, rail networks, inland waterways, and airports- all which drive our economy – in addition to the drinking water and wastewater systems that keep Americans safe and the schools and parks on which our children rely. H.R. 2 is a first step toward making investments in these sectors a priority.
Infrastructure investment has historically been a bipartisan issue, so we now urge the Senate to follow the House’s lead and pass an infrastructure package that maintains and modernizes the systems that make up the backbone of our economy. We hope Congress can come together over the upcoming weeks to prioritize our infrastructure, create jobs, and get the economy moving again – which will ensure that our hardworking citizens enjoy the quality of life they rightfully deserve for years to come. Investing in sustainable and resilient infrastructure will also ensure the United States regains its economic footing and continues to be competitive in world markets.