# ASCE's 2025 Infrastructure Report Card > Generated by All in One SEO Pro v5.0.3, this is an llms-full.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. ## Posts ### [ASCE's Climate Week forum on resilient infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/climate-week-resilient-infrastructure-forum/) **Published:** July 30, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2Finfrastructure-resilience-forum-8-web-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2Finfrastructure-resilience-forum-8-web-featured-image.png&description=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Climate%20Week%20forum%20on%20resilient%20infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")# ASCE Resilience Forum Elevates Solutions for Infrastructure that Lasts On September 24, during NYC Climate Week, ASCE convened public officials, engineers, infrastructure owners, technology leaders, and researchers for the 2026 Infrastructure Resilience Forum in New York City. In partnership with Bentley Systems and Siemens and hosted by WSP, the event centered on the newly released *[Built to Endure](https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/sites/default/files/publications/built-to-endure-smart-guide-us-cities-resilient-infrastructure-that-lasts.pdf)* guide and explored how communities can move from resilience planning to implementation through stronger policy, better coordination, modern technology, and community engagement. ![Speaker in a blue blazer delivering a talk at a Momentum Now event, standing at a podium with a screen behind her and an audience seated in front.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/MAB-Resilience-Forum-400x300.jpg "MAB Resilience Forum") A recurring theme throughout the day was that resilience is no longer about protecting individual assets. It is about strengthening interconnected systems and ensuring infrastructure can withstand increasingly frequent and severe disruptions while continuing to serve communities. ## Building Resilient Communities ASCE President Marsha Anderson Bomar opened the forum by emphasizing that while America’s infrastructure earned its highest-ever Report Card grade of a C, investment alone is insufficient without resilience. She highlighted the importance of risk-informed decision making, stronger design standards, better asset management practices, and long-term planning that accounts for future conditions. ## Keynote Address: State and Local Actions are Driving Change ![Woman speaker at a podium addressing an audience in a conference room with Momentum Now backdrop and screen behind her.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Gallego-Resilience-Forum-400x300.jpg "Gallego Resilience Forum") Mayor Kate Gallego of Phoenix discussed how one of the nation’s fastest-growing cities is addressing the interconnected challenges of extreme heat, water security, mobility, and economic growth. Key examples of major investments were shared including advanced water purification, conservation programs that have helped stabilize water use despite population growth, urban heat mitigation strategies, and voter-approved transportation funding initiatives. Mayor Gallego also emphasized the importance of leveraging federal programs such as PROTECT grants and pointed to the city’s efforts to support emerging industries, including semiconductor manufacturing, while building more resilient infrastructure systems. In recorded remarks, North Carolina Governor Josh Stein discussed the state’s ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene and lessons learned from widespread damage to transportation, water, and communication networks. Response is taking shape through dam safety, flood monitoring, landslide mapping, water infrastructure restoration, and the statewide Flood Resilience Blueprint. Governor Stein emphasized how resilience requires proactive planning, science-based decision-making, and sustained investment before disasters occur. Marie Therese Dominguez, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation, detailed how resilience has become integrated into transportation planning and project delivery across New York. Major initiatives highlighted include the Hudson Line resiliency program, Livingston Avenue Bridge replacement, flood mitigation initiatives, and I-81 Community Grid project in Syracuse. Commissioner Dominguez proposed that transportation investments should be viewed as community resilience investments, delivering benefits that extend beyond mobility to improve safety, reliability, and economic vitality. Across the keynote addresses, a consistent message : resilience is not done as a single act; rather it is a long-term commitment through coordinated investments, forward-looking policies, and collaboration across all levels of government. ## Fireside Chat: Leadership and Strategy Chris Bradshaw of Bentley Systems and Sofia Berger of WSP discussed how many communities, particularly small and medium-sized municipalities, feel “priced out” of resilience. Several practical examples of resilience implementation were presented, including: ##### Kentucky Bridge Assessment Through the use of drones, LiDAR, and digital modeling, Kentucky reduced bridge survey times from months to days, cut costs by millions, and created digital inventories expediting recovery after severe flooding damaged dozens of bridges.![Panel discussion: two speakers on a stage in a conference room, man with microphone and woman beside him, audience seated and listening.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Chris-Sofia-RF-400x300.jpg "Chris Sofia RF") ##### United Kingdom Utility Collaboration In the UK, a power utility partnered with gas and telecommunications providers to showcase interdependencies between their systems. Through joint investments of approximately £1 million, a savings was secured estimated at £17 million avoiding future recovery costs. ##### Wellington, New Zealand Digital Twin Wellington created a digital twin to visualize future risks from sea-level rise, landslides, and earthquakes for improved public awareness and support for resilience investments. Discussion repeatedly pointed to the need to prioritize systems rather than assets and promoting technology, data integration, and stakeholder collaboration to support decision-making. ### Better Planning, Stronger Infrastructure Panelists engaged on actions in planning to further infrastructure resilience; speakers featured for the session – Jennifer Perkins (Siemens), Roni Deitz (Arcadis), Alexis Taylor (New York City Economic Development Commission), and Melissa Targett (Port Authority of New York and New Jersey). Key takeaways – - Bringing engineers, planners, designers, contractors, economists, and funding experts together at project inception. - Planning with future funding and implementation pathways in mind. - Managing infrastructure as interconnected systems, not isolated assets. - Prioritizing transparency with residents and demonstrating return on investment. Examples – - Wilmington, Delaware’s resilient planning efforts supported through targeted federal grants. - Boston’s Climate Ready South Boston initiative. - New York City waterfront resiliency and Financial District adaptation projects. ### Adapting Policy to Mitigate Risk This session moderated by Jennifer Goupil (ASCE) brought speakers together to discuss policies impacting resilient infrastructure with institutionalizing resilience rather than treating it as secondary or optional. Shared examples included: ##### Salt Lake City Public Utilities Using the Envision certification, Salt Lake City’s Holly Lopez shared how the utility is revamping water and wastewater facilities while attaching sustainability and resilience metrics. In turn, the process has led to the adoption of a citywide sustainable infrastructure policy requiring third-party verification for major projects. ##### New York City Carrie Grassi (WSP) discussed efforts to integrate climate resilience design guidelines into capital projects, helping agencies account for future climate conditions from project conception through design and implementation. ## Data, Technology, and AI Doug Priest (Microsoft) shared how successful resilience policies depend on trusted, shared data and transparent decision-making. Tools referenced include digital twins, geospatial tools, scenario modeling, and AI-enabled analysis with adapting governance, traceability, and human oversight. ## Building Community for Proven Results ![Panel discussion at a conference with five speakers seated on stage, microphones in hand, audience watching; banners behind read Momentum Now.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Community-Engagement-RF-400x300.jpg "Community Engagement RF")The final panel discussion centered on community engagement with a focus on North Carolina’s resilience work. Featured speakers were Mayor Janet Cowell (City of Raleigh), Jonathan Moch (NC Governor’s Office), Elizabeth Losos (Duke University), and Pat Cummens (ESRI). Panelists pointed to success in resilience when community members participate directly in decision-making. Initiatives spotlighted in the session included – - North Carolina’s Flood Resilience Blueprint, which provides local governments with mapping, planning, modeling, and decision-support tools. - Raleigh’s flood warning systems, floodplain mapping, emergency communications programs, and rain garden initiatives. - Regional collaboration among municipalities, academia, and industry to meet flooding challenges. - Heightened use of digital twins, ESRI StoryMaps, and interactive visual tools to help residents understand risks and solutions. Further, speakers noted that effective resilience planning must recognize historical inequities and ensure communities most affected by flooding and climate hazards have a voice in project development. ## Outlook on Resilience Jonah Garnick (WSP), Tyler Oathes (Rutgers University), and Sara Oliver (Duke University) closed out the forum with a discussion on driving resilience in career and project development. Key takeaways include – - Go deeper into project analysis and implementation. - Demonstrate return on resilience investment. - Foster collaboration across disciplines. - Bring younger professionals into decision-making processes. - Continue sharing resilience success stories that resonate with the public. The event concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between ASCE and the International Coalition for Sustainable Infrastructure (ICSI), underscoring the forum’s key theme: building resilient infrastructure requires strong partnerships, shared knowledge, and a long-term commitment to strengthening communities. **A special thank you to Bentley Systems, Siemens, and WSP for their tremendous support of this event!** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Webinar%20Spotlights%20Solutions%20in%20Road%20and%20Bridge%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On October 13, ASCE hosted *Making the Grade: Roads and Bridges*, a webinar examining the findings of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* and exploring how system owners are addressing persistent transportation challenges through investment, innovation, resilience, and improved asset management. Moderated by Katherine Kortum from ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure, the discussion brought together experts from transportation research and state government as well as engineering and construction firms to elevate solutions being implemented in the built environment. #### **Roads and Bridges Show Progress, but Challenges Remain** The 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure showed encouraging improvement, with the nation’s overall infrastructure grade rising from a C- to a C, the highest grade awarded since the report card began in 1998. Roads improved from a D to a D+, supported by increased federal investment and improved pavement conditions. The percentage of major roads in poor or mediocre condition declined from 43% to 39%. However, safety concerns, traffic congestion, and long-term funding shortfalls continue to challenge transportation agencies nationwide. Bridges maintained a C grade, reflecting the reality that while funding has increased, improving the condition of a large and aging inventory takes time. Agencies continue to face difficult decisions about when to rehabilitate, preserve, or replace structures while balancing resilience and lifecycle costs. Despite recent investments, ASCE estimates a funding gap of approximately $684 billion for roads and $373 billion for bridges over the next decade. #### **The Cost of Deferred Investment** Rocky Moretti, Policy Director at TRIP, highlighted the economic impacts of underinvesting in transportation infrastructure. TRIP’s research shows that deficient roads, congestion, and roadway safety challenges impose hundreds of billions of dollars in annual costs on Americans through vehicle operating expenses, delays, and crashes. Moretti emphasized that investments in modernized infrastructure not only improve mobility but also save lives. In both Texas and Missouri, significant state investments have produced measurable benefits. Texas transportation investments have reduced congestion, improved safety, and generated billions of dollars in annual user benefits. Missouri recently committed to rebuilding the full length of Interstate 70, recognizing the corridor’s critical role in supporting economic growth and freight movement. Both inflation and aging infrastructure continue to strain state transportation programs, making long-term funding solutions increasingly important. #### **Lessons in Resilience from Hurricane Helene** Patrick Norman, Chief Engineer for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), provided firsthand lessons from Hurricane Helene, which caused unprecedented damage across western North Carolina and tested every aspect of the agency’s resilience strategy. NCDOT’s response was guided by a resilience framework adopted years before the storm, emphasizing the ability to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disruptive events. Flood prediction tools, drone technology, rapid-deployment bridges, advanced modeling, and diverse contracting approaches helped accelerate recovery efforts after more than 9,400 transportation damage sites were identified. The storm has resulted in an estimated transportation damage cost exceeding $6.6 billion. NCDOT’s experience showed the importance of risk-based decision making. Rather than applying a single design standard across all damaged facilities, the agency evaluated corridors based on their importance, vulnerability, and recovery needs. For highly critical routes such as Interstate 40 through the Pigeon River Gorge, NCDOT is pursuing more robust and resilient reconstruction strategies designed to withstand future extreme events. #### **Delivering More with Limited Resources** Erick Fry, Transportation Design Corporate Service Line Leader at KCI Technologies, discussed how agencies can maximize infrastructure investments through innovative design solutions. As construction, right-of-way, and labor costs continue to increase, transportation agencies are increasingly evaluating alternatives that deliver comparable operational performance at significantly lower cost. Innovative intersection designs, diverging diamond interchanges, displaced left turns, multimodal accommodations, and context-sensitive planning can improve safety and mobility while reducing overall project costs. Infrastructure owners are also increasingly adopting a Safe System Approach, which focuses on designing roadways to reduce the likelihood and severity of crashes. Further, strategies such as protected bicycle facilities, roundabouts, improved lighting, pedestrian accommodations, and traffic calming measures are helping agencies create safer transportation networks for all users. #### **Improving Performance Through Maintenance and Operations** Paul Staton, President of the Infrastructure Division at Webber, focused on the critical role of operations and maintenance in ensuring transportation system performance. The presentation emphasized how transportation agencies must balance investments in new capacity with the preservation of existing assets. Effective maintenance can extend asset life, improve reliability, and reduce the need for costly future reconstruction. A highlight was Tennessee’s use of performance-based asset maintenance contracts, which establish measurable service standards and hold contractors accountable for achieving them. Early results have demonstrated significant improvements in roadside conditions, drainage systems, signage, and overall asset performance. Also discussed was the importance of worker safety, technology adoption, and continuous improvement practices, including connected vehicle technologies, advanced collision avoidance systems, enhanced training programs, and innovations that help protect both maintenance workers and the traveling public. #### **Looking Ahead** Panelists provided key approaches to sustainable infrastructure which depends on making informed investment decisions, embracing innovation, prioritizing resilience, preserving existing assets, and clearly communicating transportation needs and benefits to the public. View slides used during this program [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/ASCE-Making-the-Grade-Roads-Bridges-FINAL.pdf). A special thank you to KCI for their sponsorship of the event! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Making%20the%20Grade%20Webinar%20focuses%20on%20America%E2%80%99s%20Public%20Parks&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")America’s public parks play a critical role in the nation’s communities, providing space to unwind, congregate and in some cases, provide protection from natural disasters such as flooding. On September 29th the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) hosted a webinar, *Making the Grade: Public Parks*, this program brought together infrastructure experts to discuss both challenges and solutions sustaining these important public assets. The webinar explored key findings from the [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which assigned a C- to the nation’s parks – an improvement from their 2021 grade, but an indication that deficiencies remain. ## Understanding the Grades Released every four years, the Report Card evaluates the condition and performance of the nation’s infrastructure across a range of criteria, including: - Safety - Resilience - Innovation - Funding - Capacity and condition While improvements in park infrastructure contributed to higher grades in 2025, aging facilities, limited funding for maintenance and rehabilitation, and increasing impacts from extreme weather continue to pose serious risks to communities nationwide. ## What Infrastructure Leaders Said The September 29th webinar brought together experts from across the public park community to provide valuable insights into current needs, emerging solutions, and opportunities for improving infrastructure performance. ![Banner for ASCE 'Making the Grade: Public Parks' announcing September 29 at 2pm ET, featuring five speaker portraits (Paul McCormack, Ayanna Williams, Brent Thomas, Tim Kellams, Dennis Randolph) and logos for America's State Parks, National Recreation and Park Association, Garver, and ASCE.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/parks-webinar.jpg "parks-webinar") Panelists included: - Paul McCormack, Executive Director, National Association of State Park Directors - Ayanna Williams, Director of Community and Environmental Resilience, National Recreation and Parks Association - Brent Thomas, Director of Landscape Architecture, Garver - Tim Kellams, Principal Planner/Landscape Architect, Public Works & Utilities – Engineering Division, City of Wichita, KS - Dennis Randolph, Committee on America’s Infrastructure, ASCE Together, panelists discussed the factors behind the 2025 grades, ongoing challenges facing owners and operators, and strategies for building safer and more resilient infrastructure systems. Special thanks to [Garver](https://garverusa.com/) for sponsoring this event. You can also access the slides used for this presentation [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/public-parks-webinar-slides.pdf). 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ASCE and CEC to Host Webinar on Solutions in Hazardous Waste Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade-hazardous-waste-webinar/) **Published:** September 28, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F09%2Fhaz-waste-webinar-2.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F09%2Fhaz-waste-webinar-2.png&description=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On October 27th, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will bring together leading practitioners and experts to explore issues and solutions in hazardous waste infrastructure. Led by ASCE with partnership from [Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc.](https://www.cecinc.com/) (CEC), the event will provide an overview of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* which [graded hazardous waste](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) a “C”. Primary issues highlighted in the discussion include funding, permitting, and safety as well as solutions to improve overall hazardous waste infrastructure conditions. Panelists will focus on a broad overview of hazardous waste, and key actions to drive solutions forward – from meeting capacity demands and bolstering resilience to improving financing through alternative delivery and addressing safety needs. Discussion will also center around case studies and related outcomes benefitting infrastructure in states and communities nationwide. ASCE is excited to welcome the following panelists to the webinar! - Adam Mehevec, Vice President, Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc - Sara Bixby, Director of Regulatory and Environmental Affairs, NWRA - Bryan Staley, President, EREF - Andy Hoffman, Senior Manager Strategic Services, Republic Services A special thank you to CEC for their sponsorship of the event! [ **Register Now!**](https://asce-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_uJtMzFy5RWWyvTgCDgs0-w) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F09%2Fhaz-waste-webinar-2.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Register%20Now%21%20ASCE%20and%20CEC%20to%20Host%20Webinar%20on%20Solutions%20in%20Hazardous%20Waste%20Infrastructure "Share on 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C-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/south-carolina-infrastructure-report-card-2026/) **Published:** September 24, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=South%20Carolina%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Improves%20to%20a%20C-&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F09%2F2026-south-carolina-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=South%20Carolina%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Improves%20to%20a%20C- "Share on 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"south-carolina-report-card-2")ASCE South Carolina Report Card Co Chair Jonathan Ard discusses the findings of the 2026 Report CardOn September 22, the South Carolina section of the American Society of Civil Engineers unveiled the [*2026 Report Card for South Carolina’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/south-carolina/) at the State House in Columbia. It assigned the state’s infrastructure an overall grade of ‘C-’. The grade represents an improvement from the 2021 Report Card grade of ‘D+’, signaling progress in several key sectors thanks to sustained investment and a renewed focus on transportation infrastructure. Developed by the report team, the assessment evaluates the condition and performance of eight categories of infrastructure that South Carolinians rely on every day. While recent investments have led to measurable gains in areas such as roads, ports, aviation, and dams, the report also highlights growing concerns about aging bridges, drinking water systems, and long-term infrastructure resilience. ## 2026 South Carolina Infrastructure Grades | **Grade** | **Category** | |---|---| | **B+** | Ports | | **C-** | Aviation, Bridges | | **D+** | Dams, Roads, Transit | | **D** | Drinking Water, Wastewater | ## Investment Is Driving Progress The report finds that record levels of federal funding and state investment are beginning to pay dividends. South Carolina’s transportation infrastructure, in particular, has benefited from major investments designed to accommodate rapid population growth and increasing economic activity. “South Carolina has responded to changing infrastructure needs, and recent investment is helping improve systems that have seen decades of underinvestment,” said Renee Gardner, PE, co-chair of the 2026 Report Card. “While there are signs of progress, the progress is fragile as funding programs expire, and infrastructure operators face workforce shortages. Addressing these challenges to infrastructure improvement will benefit all South Carolinians for decades to come.” ## Roads Show Improvement One of the most encouraging developments in the report is the improvement in South Carolina’s road network. Roads earned a **D+**, up from a **D** in 2021. Over the past decade, the percentage of major roads rated in good condition has more than doubled, increasing from 19% in 2016 to 41% today. Despite this progress, significant challenges remain. Nearly half of major roads, 43%, are still rated in poor condition, underscoring the need for continued investment and maintenance. ## Aging Bridges Raise Concerns While roads improved, bridges moved in the opposite direction. The bridge grade declined from a **C** to a **C-** as the state’s bridge inventory continues to age. Only 34.5% of bridges are currently rated in good condition, compared to the national average of 44%. Meanwhile, the percentage of bridges in poor condition has increased from 5.5% to 7.7%. The report also notes that more than 3,000 South Carolina bridges are now over 60 years old and approaching or exceeding their original design life, making rehabilitation and replacement increasingly urgent. ## Ports Continue to Lead the Way South Carolina’s ports remain one of the state’s strongest infrastructure assets, earning the highest grade in the report at **B+**, an improvement from their previous **B** grade. More than $2 billion has been invested in port improvements over the past decade, including projects that support larger cargo vessels and strengthen connections to rail and highway networks. The completed Charleston Harbor deepening project now allows the Port of Charleston to accommodate the world’s largest container ships without tidal restrictions, contributing to significant growth in cargo volumes. ## Water Systems Face Growing Pressures The report identifies drinking water and wastewater infrastructure as areas requiring immediate attention. Drinking water dropped from a **D+** to a **D**, driven by aging pipelines, increasing violations, and concerns about system resilience. Wastewater maintained a **D** grade but faces similar challenges. Population growth and more frequent severe storms have placed increasing stress on water infrastructure statewide. The report also points to workforce shortages as experienced operators retire and too few new workers enter the field. ## Seven Steps to Raise the Grade The report card outlines seven recommendations to improve South Carolina’s infrastructure performance in the years ahead: 1. Sustain and expand state infrastructure investment. 2. Prioritize drinking water and wastewater infrastructure as public health imperatives. 3. Establish a comprehensive dam safety funding program. 4. Address bridge deterioration before it accelerates. 5. Expand public transit options to meet growing demand. 6. Invest in development of the future infrastructure workforce. 7. Incorporate resilience planning into all infrastructure decision-making. ## Looking Ahead South Carolina’s improved overall grade demonstrates that strategic investment can produce measurable results. However, the report makes clear that continued commitment is necessary to maintain that momentum. As the state grows and faces increasingly severe weather events, infrastructure systems must be modernized, maintained, and strengthened to meet future demands. We’d like to thank the ASCE members who worked on this report card that will serve as a valuable advocacy tool for years to come. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=South%20Carolina%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Improves%20to%20a%20C-&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News --- ### [New StoryMap Highlights U.S. Transportation Expansion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/paths-to-prosperity-transportation-infrastructure/) **Published:** September 22, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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latest interactive StoryMap release, “Paths to Prosperity: How Transportation Infrastructure Built Modern America.” This StoryMap explores the transportation systems that connected a growing nation, starting with the Erie Canal in 1825 and evolving into the expansion of railroads, the development of urban transit systems, and the creation of the modern interstate highway system. Through historic maps and imagery, readers can discover how generations of civil engineers transformed the movement of people and goods, strengthening the nation’s prosperity and shaping modern life for all Americans. Explore the StoryMap: [**Paths to Prosperity**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/paths-to-prosperity-storymap/) This StoryMap is part of ASCE’s America250 storytelling initiative highlighting the engineering achievements that helped build the United States. It joins previous ArcGIS StoryMaps, including [*Flowing Forward: How Water Infrastructure Shaped Modern America*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/?_gl=1%2A1dcmj9o%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2ANjM1MDU1NDE0LjE3ODk1NzIzMDY.%2A_ga_C9EX6BGYX5%2AczE3ODk1NzIzMDUkbzEkZzAkdDE3ODk1NzIzMDUkajYwJGwwJGgw), which showcased the impact of water sanitation and delivery infrastructure and the civil engineers who make it possible. 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The event, *Making the Grade: Transit*, followed the release of ASCE’s [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), and examined how transit infrastructure is performing across key criteria including safety, resilience, capacity, and innovation. ![ASCE banner for 'Making the Grade: Transit' with five speaker headshots and titles, plus a blue bus icon; event date Sept 10 at 3pm ET.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/Transit-02.jpg "Transit (02)") The conversation highlighted report findings, supporting rationale for the transit grade, and a looked ahead to key solutions. Additionally, panelists discussed on-the-ground experiences linking the report to practitioner experience. Featured panelists included: - David Swallow, Committee on America’s Infrastructure, ASCE (moderator) - Tim McCoy, President, GCW, Inc. - Ward McCarragher, Vice President, Government Affairs and Advocacy, APTA - Andrew Kjellman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, RTS of Southern Nevada - Caitlin Tobin, Red Line Project Director, MTA Maryland Special thanks to [GCW Engineering](https://gcwengineering.com/) for sponsoring this event. Webinar slides are [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/transit-webinar-slides.pdf). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Virginia%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Maintains%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## Virginia’s 2026 Infrastructure Report Card Released ![Group of eight professionals in business attire standing outdoors in front of brick tower and classical building, each holding blue brochures.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/va-report-card-group-400x300.png "va-report-card-group")On August 25th, ASCE’s Virginia section released the [*2026 Report Card for Virginia’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/virginia/) outside of the historic Bell Tower at the Virginia Capitol Complex in Richmond. Virginia’s overall ‘C’ grade is unchanged from the last report card in 2022 and matches the national infrastructure grade. The event brought together leaders from ASCE, state agencies, and local government. Report card co-chairs John Harman and Vic Crawford unveiled the report card findings; ASCE CEO Peter O’Neil discussed how important the report card is for ASCE. Guest speakers included Kayla Bravo from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, Dwayne Roadcap from the Virginia Department of Health, and Richmond Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. ## Infrastructure Category Grades | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B+** | Bridges, Broadband | | **B** | Solid Waste | | **C+** | Drinking Water, Rail | | **C** | Public Parks, Roads, Stormwater | | **C-** | Dams, Transit | | **D+** | Schools, Wastewater | | **D** | Energy | ## Bright Spots and Ongoing Challenges Several infrastructure categories saw positive momentum. Bridges and broadband each earned a B+, the highest grades in the report card. Virginia’s bridges are in better condition than the national average, while broadband expansion has connected more than 90% of the state to high-speed internet. Solid waste earned a B, reflecting strong performance and reliable investment. Drinking water and rail received C+ grades, while roads, public parks, and stormwater earned C grades. Roads improved from a C- in 2022 thanks to continued investment, although traffic congestion remains a challenge. Virginia’s water systems generally perform well, but many pipes and facilities are aging and will need upgrades in the years ahead. Dams and transit earned C- grades, while schools and wastewater received D+ grades, showing the impact of aging infrastructure and growing costs. The lowest grade was energy, which earned a D, largely because electricity demand is rising rapidly, driven in part by data center growth, while new generating capacity is struggling to keep pace. ## Recommendations to Raise Virginia’s Grade The report card includes several recommendations to raise the grade. They area - **Investment**: Increased investment is needed to meet growing demands driven by population growth and more intense storm events. Targeted funding will help ensure infrastructure can continue to operate safely and reliably under increasing stress. - **Resilience**: Recent storms have demonstrated Virginia’s resilience while highlighting the need for the state to prepare for future events, including updating emergency action plans for all departments and municipalities. - **Safety**: Strengthening dam inspection programs and adopting comprehensive roadway safety strategies will be essential to reducing risks and improving public safety statewide. - **Capacity**: Added capacity for aging water-related infrastructure is critical, especially as population growth continues. Many systems are past their design life cycle and need upgrades, which will help to address water quality, flooding, and erosion concerns. - **Technology:** Relying on improving technologies such as green infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) will help to stretch limited funding and ensure investments are made efficiently. ## What Comes Next for Virginia Infrastructure While the report card provides a snapshot of Virginia’s infrastructure today, its real purpose is to help shape the future. ASCE members in Virginia are already working on plans to meet with lawmakers when the Virginia General Assembly returns to session early next year and are excited to have a new report card to share with Virginia’s congressional delegation when they attend ASCE’s Legislative Fly-In next spring. 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on August 11 at the Historic Senate Chambers at the Arizona State Capitol, assigning the state an overall grade of ‘C’. The grade is unchanged from Arizona’s 2020 report card and matches the national grade in ASCE’s 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. A ‘C’ means infrastructure is in adequate condition and meeting current needs. But adequate is not sufficient for the systems communities depend on every day. Arizona will need sustained investment and improvements in planning, maintenance, innovation, and resilience to ensure its infrastructure can support continued growth. Arizona’s infrastructure is barely keeping pace with the state’s rapid growth. As the state’s population and economy continue to expand, infrastructure systems will face increasing demands for capacity, maintenance, and resilience. Since 2020, two categories have improved, six have maintained the same grade, and one has declined. Arizona also evaluated energy and stormwater for the first time in 2026. **Two infrastructure categories have improved since 2020** - **Levees (C, up from C- in 2020):** Levees protect hundreds of thousands of Arizonans and billions of dollars in property. The 2020 report card found that Arizona’s levees faced significant funding challenges for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades. The 2026 report continues to identify funding and aging infrastructure as concerns, but the improved grade reflects progress in the system. - **Wastewater (C, up from C- in 2020):** Wastewater also improved, even as the system faces significant demands from population growth. Arizona’s wastewater network includes more than 26,000 miles of sewer pipe and roughly 320 treatment plants. Yet an estimated 30% to 50% of collection infrastructure will require rehabilitation within the next decade, and at least a dozen treatment plants will need expansion to meet future demand. **Six categories held steady since 2020** - **Bridges (B+)**: Bridges continue to be one of the state’s strongest infrastructure systems. Just 1.6% of Arizona’s 8,587 bridges are rated poor, well below the national average of 6.8%. The state is also using innovative approaches such as Accelerated Bridge Construction, polymer concrete overlays, carbon-fiber strengthening, drones, and climate and hydrology modeling to improve bridge conditions and durability. Yet, Arizona faces a funding gap of roughly $500 million for bridge maintenance projects by 2029, in part because the state’s 19-cent-per-gallon fuel tax is among the lowest in the nation. - **Dams (C-):** Arizona has 380 dams, including 166 classified as high hazard. While most high-hazard dams with documented condition ratings are in satisfactory condition, 12% were rated poor as of 2025. With an estimated $460 million needed to rehabilitate non-federal dams, additional investment is needed to address aging infrastructure and protect public safety. - **Drinking Water (C-)**: Water infrastructure is particularly important as Arizona manages Colorado River shortages, accelerating groundwater depletion, aging assets, and rapid population growth. Much of the state’s drinking water infrastructure was constructed between the 1950s and 1970s, while the EPA estimates more than $12 billion in drinking water infrastructure needs over the next 20 years. - **Transit (C):** Transit service is adequate in most urban regions, and projects such as the five-mile South Central Light Rail Extension are improving connectivity. However, nearly 15% of Arizona’s workforce still lacks adequate access to reliable transit, and the state has no dedicated transit funding source. - **Rail (C):** Rail infrastructure also continues to face competing demands. Freight rail is approaching capacity in some areas, while passenger rail investment and service remain limited. - **Roads (D+):** Arizona’s lowest-rated infrastructure category is roads. Fifty-four percent of major roads are rated in poor or mediocre condition, while congestion continues to grow. Phoenix commuters lose an average of 76 hours each year to congestion, while Tucson commuters lose roughly 50 hours. **Aviation was the only infrastructure category to receive a lower grade, falling from a ‘B’ in 2020 to a ‘B-’ in 2026** The decline does not mean Arizona’s airports are failing to keep pace. The state’s 67 public-use airports are currently meeting capacity demands, and pavement conditions have improved substantially. Phoenix Sky Harbor is also planning major capacity and terminal improvements, including a roughly $4 billion West Terminal expected to begin construction around 2030. However, Arizona airports still face an estimated $48 million annual shortfall for capacity and maintenance expenses through 2030, with rural airports particularly affected. Continued growth and increasing demands on the state’s aviation system will require sustained investment. **The 2026 report card also expands beyond the nine categories evaluated in 2020, adding energy and stormwater.** - **Energy (C):** Arizona’s energy infrastructure benefits from strong generation capacity and growing renewable resources, but aging assets and rising demand from population growth, industry, and data centers are placing new strains on the grid. Continued investment in modernization, storage, and resilience will be critical to maintaining a reliable and sustainable energy system. - **Stormwater** **(C-):** Stormwater systems in the state face challenges associated with aging systems, rapid development, and increasingly intense weather events. Prolonged heat and drought, wildfires, and intense flooding are placing additional strain on infrastructure and underscore the need to incorporate resilience and adaptation into infrastructure planning. **Growth is putting every grade to the test** Arizona’s overall ‘C’ grade has not changed since 2020, but the state itself has. Its population is projected to grow from 7.6 million today to 10.5 million by 2050, creating new demands for infrastructure capacity while increasing maintenance needs for existing systems. The report identifies five priorities for raising Arizona’s infrastructure grades: - **Investment**: Increased investment from the IIJA has begun to close the funding gap in Arizona. With the IIJA sunsetting in 2026, continued investment is needed across all sectors of infrastructure to continue to make much needed improvements. Sustained funding will ensure our most critical systems, like drinking water, bridges, roads, dams, and more can continue safe operations across Arizona. - **Maintenance**: With the focus on increasing capacity, Arizona’s critical systems are aging and not receiving needed maintenance to fulfill their life cycle. Maintaining existing assets should be prioritized in future infrastructure planning. - **Innovation**: Modern technology has led to new innovations and can bring much needed updates to the state’s infrastructure, such as different delivery methods, new materials, and smart technology. The public and private sectors will need to be open to new ideas to deliver projects more efficiently and cost effectively. - **Resilience and Adaptation**: Arizona is facing more environmental challenges than ever before. Prolonged heat and drought have led to more wildfires and intense flooding. Incorporating resilience and adaptation in design and maintenance of infrastructure assets is needed to keep up with growth. - **Geographic Parity**: Funding is stretched across the state, but it is especially stretched in Arizona’s rural communities. Investment and modernization of assets in rural communities is necessary to maintain safe infrastructure for its entire life cycle. Federal infrastructure funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has helped address some of Arizona’s infrastructure needs, but continued investment will be necessary as that funding sunsets. At the same time, maintaining existing assets must remain a priority alongside expanding capacity. The 2026 Report Card for Arizona’s Infrastructure evaluates 11 categories: aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, levees, rail, roads, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. The report is a public service intended to inform residents and policymakers about the condition and needs of Arizona’s infrastructure and identify solutions for raising the grades. 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**Tags:** Arizona, business development, capacity, extreme heat, infrastructure resilience, population growth --- ### [Massachusetts’ Infrastructure Earns a D+: A Call to Build for the Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/massachusetts-infrastructure-report-card-2026-d-plus/) **Published:** July 23, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Massachusetts%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20D%2B%3A%20A%20Call%20to%20Build%20for%20the%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## Massachusetts Infrastructure Faces Aging Systems and Growing Demands Massachusetts is known for its world-class universities, vibrant economy, and historic communities. But beneath the surface of the Commonwealth’s success lies a challenge that affects every resident, business, and visitor: aging infrastructure. Today, the Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section (BSCES) released the inaugural [*2026 Report Card for Massachusetts’ Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/massachusetts/), assigning the state’s infrastructure an overall grade of D+. The report card evaluated seven categories: bridges, dams, drinking water, roads, stormwater, transit, and wastewater systems. The release event was held at the Massachusetts State House, and featured remarks from BSCES leadership and ASCE President-Elect Carol Haddock. ## ![Three men in suits present a poster at a Massachusetts infrastructure event, with a lectern seal and flags in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/mass-report-card-release-400x300.jpeg "mass-report-card-release")What the 2026 Massachusetts Infrastructure Report Card Reveals While a ‘D+’ is much lower than the national infrastructure grade of ‘C’, the report serves an important purpose. It provides a clear, data-driven snapshot of the condition of Massachusetts’ infrastructure and highlights the investments and policy decisions needed to ensure these systems can reliably serve future generations. ## Aging Infrastructure Is Outpacing Repairs Across the Commonwealth The findings reveal a common theme across nearly every infrastructure sector: Massachusetts’ infrastructure is aging faster than it is being repaired. Much of the Commonwealth’s infrastructure was built decades ago, and in some cases more than a century ago. These systems are being tested by growing populations, evolving economic demands, and increasingly severe weather events. ## Bridges, Roads, Water and Wastewater Systems Need Long-Term Investment The report found that Massachusetts has the oldest bridge inventory in the nation, with an average bridge age of 65 years. More than 500 bridges are either in poor condition, closed, or operating with weight restrictions. Roads are also showing signs of deterioration, costing drivers an estimated $3.8 billion annually in additional vehicle operating costs. Meanwhile, aging water and wastewater systems face billions of dollars in long-term investment needs to replace aging pipes, address emerging contaminants, and maintain reliable service. ## Targeted Infrastructure Investment Is Showing Results There are reasons for optimism. Recent federal and state investments have begun making a difference. Transit, which received a ‘C-’, earned the highest grade in the report and exceeded the corresponding national grade. Recent rail expansions, accessibility improvements, and efforts to eliminate MBTA slow zones demonstrate that targeted investment can deliver meaningful results for the public. The report also notes that Massachusetts has benefited significantly from federal infrastructure funding in recent years. As of 2025, the Commonwealth received more than $11 billion through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to support hundreds of projects statewide. These investments have helped stabilize key infrastructure systems and address long-standing maintenance needs. ## Solutions to Improve Massachusetts Infrastructure The 2026 Report Card outlines three broad solutions: establish long-term funding mechanisms, modernize regulations and project delivery processes, and invest in workforce recruitment and retention. Together, these steps can help Massachusetts improve reliability, strengthen resilience to extreme weather, and support continued economic growth. ## Turning the Report Card into an Advocacy Tool We’d like to thank every member who contributed to this report, and everyone who will now use this advocacy tool to communicate with local and state leaders in Massachusetts the importance of improving infrastructure in the Commonwealth. ![Group of professionals posing for a photo in a conference room with flags, a presentation screen, and a display board nearby.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/mass-report-card-release5-400x300.jpeg "mass-report-card-release5") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Hosted by ASCE with partnership from SCS Engineers, the event provided an overview of the [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/?_gl=1%2A1y7wp0r%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2ANjg5MzczMjEzLjE3ODQzMDM2MjA.%2A_ga_C9EX6BGYX5%2AczE3ODQzMDM2MTkkbzEkZzEkdDE3ODQzMDM2MjUkajU0JGwwJGgw) which graded solid waste a [“C+”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/?_gl=1%2Al3smfi%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2ANjg5MzczMjEzLjE3ODQzMDM2MjA.%2A_ga_C9EX6BGYX5%2AczE3ODQzMDM2MTkkbzEkZzAkdDE3ODQzMDM2MTkkajYwJGwwJGgw). Issues concerning funding, permitting, and safety were highlighted as well as recommendations to improve overall solid waste infrastructure conditions. Panelist discussion focused on a broad overview of the industry as it currently stands, highlighting the different types of infrastructure needed, the continued importance of sustained investment and policy concerns around Extended Producer Responsibility and disposal bans related to lithium-ion batteries. Further, industry practitioners offered real world case studies and strategies/technologies being implemented today, including Frederick County, Virginia and landfill facilities in operation there. The conversation also touched upon industry research being done into per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contaminants and their treatment in solid waste processing facilities. ASCE appreciates the following panelists for their time and contributions to the webinar!: - David Sonne, Senior Project Manager, Tetra Tech (moderator) - Dana Blumberg, Vice President, SCS Engineers - Kristyn Oldendorf, Senior Director of Public Policy & Communications, SWANA - Suzie Boxman, Senior Director of Programs, EREF - Joe Wilder, Director, Public Works, Frederick County Virginia A special thank you to SCS Engineers for their sponsorship of the event! Webinar slides are [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/solid-waste-webinar-slides.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Making%20the%20Grade%3A%20Solid%20Waste%20Infrastructure%20Webinar&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Webinars & Events --- ### [Making the Grade Webinar Spotlights America’s Dams and Levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade-dams-levees/) **Published:** July 16, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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On August 26, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) held a webinar, *Making the Grade: Dams/Levees*, which brought together leading engineers and infrastructure experts to discuss both challenges and solutions sustaining these essential facilities. The webinar explored key findings from the [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which assigned a D+ to the nation’s dams and levees – an improvement from their 2021 grades, but an indication that significant deficiencies remain. While improvements in both dams and levees contributed to higher grades in 2025, aging infrastructure, limited funding for maintenance and rehabilitation, and increasing impacts from extreme weather continue to pose serious risks to communities nationwide. ![Banner for 'Making the Grade: Dams & Levees' event (Aug 26, 2026, 2pm ET/11am PT) featuring five speakers: Dan Wade, John Roche, Bill Foos, Mike Bachand, and Del Shannon, with their titles, plus partner logos (GEI Consultants, USSD, Association of State Dam Safety Officials, ASCE).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/dams-levees-webinar.jpg "dams-levees-webinar") Panelists included: - Dan Wade, GEI Consultants - Mike Bachard, GEI Consultants - Bill Foos, U.S. Society on Dams - John Roche, Association of State Dam Safety Officials - Del Shannon, ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure Together, panelists discussed factors behind the 2025 grades, ongoing challenges facing owners and operators, and strategies for building safer and more resilient infrastructure systems. Slides from the webinar are [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/dams-levees-webinar-slides.pdf). 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moved another step closer to passing its biennial water resources infrastructure legislation on time for the seventh consecutive cycle. On Tuesday July 14, the [House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=410202) unanimously approved H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. The committee had originally scheduled to mark up its WRDA bill on Wednesday, July 1st, shortly after it had been introduced. However, the markup was delayed when the House went into recess following infighting on the House floor, preventing business from being completed. [H.R. 9497](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/ans_to_hr_9497_7-8-26.pdf) authorizes 131 new project feasibility studies and 10 new water resources infrastructure projects. It includes policy provisions supporting infrastructure resilience, flood control programs, and improvements to project delivery. ## ASCE Priorities Included in the House WRDA Bill The House bill included several of [ASCE’s 2026 WRDA legislative priorities](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2026-01-15-asce-policy-recommendations-to-congress-2026-water-resources-development-act.pdf). This most notably includes a 5-year reauthorization of the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program, as well as an adjustment to the National Dam Safety Program’s State Assistance Grant allocation formula removing low-head dams from the calculation used by FEMA, ensuring states to not receive less grant money because they do not have the capacity or mandate to accurately count low-head dams. The bill also supports efforts to improve maintenance dredging by supporting greater coordination with state, local and other non-federal stakeholders. Finally, the House bill takes steps to help address the Corps’ water resources project backlog, which has grown to over $100 billion. The bill would expedite completion of several water resources projects authorized under previous WRDA bills and would also accelerate completion of inland waterways projects in areas where a federal emergency has been declared. H.R. 9497 passed out of committee unanimously and now awaits consideration by the full House. ## Senate WRDA Bill Adds Water Infrastructure Reauthorizations On Wednesday, the [Senate Environment & Public Works Committee (EPW) held a markup](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=835277D4-B23E-4121-96B7-85BEB3AE0918) for its own WRDA bill, S. 4949, which was introduced this past Monday, July 13th. Like its companion in the House, the committee advanced [the bill](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/5/1/5145df92-89dc-411a-96f5-1fa5fda3ca73/C7009AF8052D9AAE991970E27E6610C3345E0BD40C55DA719AAD2E5137562536.s.4949-water-resources-development-act-of-2026-updated-7.15.2026.pdf) unanimously to the full Senate. This year’s Senate WRDA bill would authorize 15 new water resources projects for the Corps, as well as 61 project feasibility studies. The bill also includes provisions supporting flood control and project delivery, including establishment of new categorical exceptions from environmental review process for projects authorized under continuing authority programs, environmental infrastructure projects, and projects where the Federal cost share does not exceed $50,000. Like the House’s WRDA bill, S. 4949 also includes multiple ASCE WRDA priorities, such as a reauthorization of the High Hazard Program, the adjustment of the National Dam Safety Program State Assistance Grant formula, and requirements for greater cooperation on maintenance dredging activities. Unlike the House bill, the Senate bill does include an extension of the National Levee Safety Program through 2031, as requested by ASCE. This will ensure that the program will be able to continue its development uninterrupted for the next 5 years. ## Key SRF and WIFIA Provisions in the Senate Package Due to its expanded jurisdiction over Environmental Protection Agency programs, the Senate EPW Committee was also able to include the reauthorization of critical water infrastructure funding and financing programs in its WRDA bill. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), support low-interest loans for water infrastructure improvements. It reauthorizes the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, which supports loans for high-cost water infrastructure projects exceeding $20 million. The SRF programs and WIFIA each received a 4-year reauthorization. These programs were last reauthorized in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Each program received an increase in its authorized funding level. The DWSRF is authorized to receive funding up to $3.75 billion in FY 27, with an increase of $250 million each year until 2030, when the authorized level would be $4.5 billion. The CWSRF and WIFIA programs received authorized funding of $3.5 billion and $65 million per year through 2030 respectively. While these represent annual authorization increases for these critical programs, IIJA reauthorized these programs for 5 years, while S. 4949 provides only a 4-year reauthorization. The committee did not include any provisions limiting use of SRF appropriations for community funded projects, or earmarks. Without efforts to address this, appropriators can continue to take funding off the top of SRF appropriations and fund water infrastructure projects that do not go through regular SRF review processes and allow for loans to be paid back into the fund, which makes the programs revolving funds. ## Lead Service Lines, PFAS, and Water Workforce Provisions However, the Senate bill did make projects to address lead service line removal and addressing emerging contaminants such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) eligible to receive SRF loans, which will help support efforts which were funded under IIJA to address these challenges. It would also reauthorize a program to support efforts to address sewer overflow and stormwater reuse challenges. Finally, it supports efforts to improve the water workforce by reauthorizing the Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Program and allows these grants to be used to train water sector employees in cybersecurity measures. ## Next Steps for WRDA 2026 in Congress ASCE is excited to see Congress’s WRDA process move into what will hopefully be its final stages for 2026. After the House and Senate pass their respective bills, House T&I and Senate EPW are expected to meet over the remainder of this summer and into fall to iron out differences between the two bills. Once they have produced a final agreement, it is expected to pass into law by the end of this year, marking the 7th consecutive time WRDA will have been signed into law on its every 2-year schedule. ASCE will continue to monitor developments surrounding the House and Senate WRDA bills and will continue to advocate for its priorities throughout the remainder of the process. This includes the inclusion of Senate language related to EPA programs and the Senate’s reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program in a final, conferenced, bill. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Advances%20WRDA%202026%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized --- ### [Built to Adapt: The Civil Engineers Shaping America’s Past and Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/america250/) **Published:** July 9, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Built%20to%20Adapt%3A%20The%20Civil%20Engineers%20Shaping%20America%E2%80%99s%20Past%20and%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has released a new video, “Built to Adapt: The Civil Engineers Shaping America’s Past and Future,” as part of the USA TODAY *America250* series commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary. The film explores the vital role civil engineers have played in building and maintaining the infrastructure systems that power American communities and economic growth. From canals and railroads to highways, airports, and resilient water systems, the video traces how infrastructure has supported the nation’s development and highlights the adaptability and innovation that continue to define the civil engineering profession. It also looks ahead to the challenges and opportunities facing America’s infrastructure in the decades to come. The documentary features insights from ASCE leaders and demonstrates how civil engineers help safeguard public health, safety, and welfare while designing solutions for a rapidly changing world. The video is part of a broader America250 initiative recognizing organizations and professions that have helped shape the nation’s past, present, and future. As the United States reflects on 250 years of progress, the film serves as a reminder that investing in infrastructure—and the professionals who plan, design, build, and maintain it—remains essential to the nation’s continued prosperity and resilience. Read the story and watch the video here: <https://www.usatoday.com/story/sponsor-story/acumen-usa250/2026/07/01/built-to-adapt-the-civil-engineers-shaping-americas-past-and-future/90492696007/> [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Through compelling historical examples, the StoryMap illustrates how civil engineering innovations helped reduce disease, improve quality of life, and support the growth of thriving communities across the nation. Explore the ingenuity behind the infrastructure that shaped modern America and discover how engineering helped lay the foundation for the country’s rise as a global leader. Explore the StoryMap: [*Flowing Forward: How Water Infrastructure Shaped Modern America*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/). This is ASCE’s fourth ArcGIS StoryMap, following the release of [*Infrastructure is Everywhere*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) last year and [*Ground-Level Resiliency*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) and [*Grading the States*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) earlier this year. 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markup delayed by floor fights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-wrda-2026-bill/) **Published:** July 1, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2Fwrda-2026-1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F07%2Fwrda-2026-1.png&description=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## House Introduces WRDA 2026 Bill On June 26th, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee introduced [H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/9497/text?s=2&r=1). Introduction of the House’s WRDA bill marks the culmination of a process that started in the fall of 2025 with [the committee’s first WRDA hearing](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=409038). This year’s WRDA bill authorizes 131 new project feasibility studies and 10 new water resources projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). It also includes several new policy provisions supporting water resources infrastructure resilience, support for flood control programs, and provisions to improve project delivery. ## House WRDA Bill Includes ASCE Dam Safety Priority The bill also includes several provisions which align with [ASCE’s top policy priorities for WRDA 2026](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2026-01-15-asce-policy-recommendations-to-congress-2026-water-resources-development-act.pdf). Most notably, H.R. 9497 includes a 5-year reauthorization of the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program (HHPD Program). The HHPD program is a competitive grant program, and one of the only federal funding sources for rehabilitation of dams. In this case, grants support repair and rehabilitation of high-hazard potential dams—water control structures whose failure would result in loss of life or significant destruction of property. The program’s authority is set to expire on September 30th of this year. The bill also makes a needed adjustment to the National Dam Safety Program State Assistance Grant allocation formula. In 2024, the final WRDA agreement included a provision incorporating low-head dams into the State Assistance Grant allocation formula. Currently, most states lack the capacity to accurately count low-head dams, and data on these structures is still being collected nationwide for development of the National Low-Head Dam Inventory. Requiring states to account for low-head dams in their grant applications would likely cause most states to see reduced funding to support inspection and monitoring, emergency preparedness, and staffing needs. This year’s WRDA bill addresses this by removing low-head dams from the allocation formula, ensuring states do not lose out on needed funding while allowing the development of the low-head dam inventory to continue. ## WRDA 2026 Supports Maintenance Dredging and Navigation ![Industrial river lock with barges and machinery, blue WRDA 2026 banner in the top-left corner](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/wrda-2026-1-400x229.png "wrda-2026-1")Support for dredging activities and navigation projects also received attention in this year’s House WRDA bill. Among ASCE’s priorities for WRDA 2026 was support for maintenance dredging activities, which would help to create deeper channel depths and allow for larger cargo ships to enter U.S. ports. This will not only support the overall health of navigation infrastructure but will also help increase trade and economic growth. To facilitate these goals, the bill includes a provision requiring the Secretary of the Army to increase coordination with non-federal stakeholders, including state and local governments to improve the planning and efficiency of maintenance dredging activities. It would also require the Corps to complete a report examining the health of the nation’s inland waterways and the condition and reliability of inland waterways infrastructure projects. This could help shed light on where challenges to infrastructure systems are and allow for development of new solutions to improve the health of inland waterways. ## Bill Targets Growing Corps Water Resources Project Backlog Finally, this legislation takes steps to help address the Corps’ growing water resources project backlog. Over time, many water resources projects authorized under previous WRDA’s have not received proper funding from congressional appropriators. This and other challenges have led to delays in project completion and increased costs. The backlog [has been cited as growing to a level of over $100 billion](https://www.congress.gov/crs_external_products/IF/PDF/IF11322/IF11322.8.pdf). To help address this, the bill requires, to the extent possible, that the Corps expedite the completion of several water resources infrastructure projects nationwide authorized under previous WRDA bills. The bill also allows for accelerated completion of inland waterways projects in areas where a federal emergency has been declared. ## National Levee Safety Program Left Out of House WRDA Bill An ASCE priority that was not addressed in this year’s measure is the reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program. The National Levee Safety Program was last reauthorized through FY 2028 in WRDA 2022. In that time, the program has made significant advancement by developing the first [National Levee Safety Guidelines](https://mmc.sec.usace.army.mil/NLSP_website/NLSG_PublicDraft/National_Levee_Safety_Guidelines_Draft_1APRIL2024.pdf), which provide a set of best practices for improving the safety and effectiveness of the nation’s levees. The Corps has also completed risk assessments for all levees within its portfolio and significantly strengthened the [National Levee Database](https://levees.sec.usace.army.mil/). This progress allowed ASCE to increase [the grade for the nation’s levees to “D+” in the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Levees.pdf). Reauthorizing the program now will ensure its uninterrupted development and allow the Corps to support states in improving the overall safety of levee systems nationwide. ## Next Steps Uncertain for House WRDA 2026 Bill Introduction of the 2026 Water Resources Development Act is an important step toward ensuring WRDA passes on schedule for the 7th time since 2014. However, its path in the House remains uncertain. The Transportation & Infrastructure Committee had previously scheduled a markup for the bill for Wednesday, July 1st. However, continued debate and challenges on the House floor related to other legislative matters pushed House leadership to cancel votes for the rest of this week, resulting in the postponement of Wednesday’s markup without a new date set. Legislative disputes may continue even after Congress returns from the 4th of July holiday recess, leaving the next steps for the House WRDA bill potentially in limbo. The Senate Environment & Public Works Committee is expected to release its own version of WRDA 2026 this summer as well. ASCE will continue to monitor developments surrounding WRDA and will keep members informed of those developments. 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by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20introduces%20WRDA%202026%3B%20markup%20delayed%20by%20floor%20fights&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure investment, inland waterways, levees, ports, water infrastructure, Water Resources, water resources bill, water resources development act, WRDA --- ### [Conversation: Effective Asset Management and Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/webinar-on-effective-asset-management-and-infrastructure/) **Published:** June 30, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Ensuring that infrastructure assets remain safe, reliable, and cost-effective over their full life cycle requires thoughtful planning, robust data, and disciplined management. To explore these critical challenges and opportunities, ASCE and Siemens collaborated for a closer look into modern capabilities in infrastructure asset management. The program highlighted how public agencies across the country are under increasing pressure to do more with limited resources. From aging roads and bridges to water systems and public buildings, infrastructure owners must balance immediate needs with long-term sustainability. This 75-minute webinar focused on how effective asset management practices can help agencies and asset owners: - Gain a clearer understanding of what infrastructure assets they own - Plan proactively for operations and maintenance over decades - Align funding strategies with long-term infrastructure needs - Improve resilience and system performance - Maximize the value of public investments Panelists examined how stronger asset data and life cycle planning can help protect future budgets while ensuring infrastructure performs as intended. Featured Speakers This session brought together leaders from across the infrastructure and asset management community: - David Sklar – National Lead for Asset Management, WSP - Kristina Swallow – Assistant City Manager, City of Tucson, Arizona - Chris Dejuneas, Enterprise Solutions Consultant, Siemens Together, they shared real-world perspectives on integrating technology, policy, and practice to strengthen infrastructure systems. Whether you are a policymaker, infrastructure owner, engineer, or asset management professional, this webinar offers valuable insights into how smarter planning today can deliver better outcomes tomorrow. Thank you to our sponsor for this event, Siemens! Please see below for a recording of the webinar and to access a copy of the presentation. Slides access: [Infrastructure Asset Management Webinar July 30\_slide deck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Infrastructure-Asset-Management-Webinar-July-30_slide-deck.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Conversation%3A%20Effective%20Asset%20Management%20and%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F06%2Fasset-management-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Conversation%3A%20Effective%20Asset%20Management%20and%20Infrastructure "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=How%20AI%20Is%20Transforming%20Water%20Security&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F06%2FPicture2-266x400.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=How%20AI%20Is%20Transforming%20Water%20Security "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Drought, industrial demands, climate variability, aging infrastructure, and emerging contaminants are just a few of the pressures straining freshwater resources. Expanding supply alone is no longer sufficient. Future water security depends on making systems smarter, more efficient, and more resilient. Artificial intelligence (AI) is proving to be a vital catalyst for this transition, yet AI remains a tool, and people are the core of our industry. Investing in talent and cultivating leadership are essential to using the full potential of AI innovations in water systems. ### Optimizing Water Reuse with AI Technology ![Scientist in safety goggles and a blue lab coat stands at a lab workstation, looking at a computer screen beside testing equipment.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Picture2-266x400.jpg "Picture2") Water reuse has evolved from a sustainability initiative into a critical strategy for long-term water security. This includes meeting the escalating non-potable water demands of AI-supporting data center infrastructure. Because reuse systems generate large volumes of operational data – like flow rates, water chemistry, weather, and equipment performance – AI is well suited to support improvements to efficiency and reliability. One application is predictive water quality management. This approach uses machine learning to detect early trends before operational parameters deviate from specified regulatory or operational thresholds. Predictive maintenance and digital twins also help forecast equipment failures, simulate scenarios, and strengthen resilience. Furthermore, AI can help teams optimize treatment by adjusting chemical dosing, lowering energy use, and boosting performance across advanced treatment systems. ### Using AI to Break the Desalination Cost Curve Desalination is widely recognized as a strategic solution to water scarcity, especially in coastal regions. Yet despite decades of technological progress, many projects are hit with rising capital costs and constant pressure to cut energy use. Recent cost increases challenge the assumption that efficiency gains alone will make desalination affordable. AI is increasingly helping address these challenges. In reverse osmosis – the dominant desalination technology – AI analyzes feedwater conditions, pressure, recovery rates, and energy prices in real time. This reduces electricity consumption while maintaining steady freshwater output. AI can also improve membrane management by predicting fouling from biological growth, scaling, and suspended solids. This visibility enables proactive cleaning before performance drops. In pretreatment, AI helps plants quickly respond to changing seawater conditions, including turbidity spikes and algal blooms. Digital twins further support performance by simulating operational changes and disruptions. AI is also enabling better integration with renewable energy, lowering costs and reducing environmental impact. ### PFAS Treatment: Using AI for Smarter Decisions ![Lab technician in safety glasses and blue gloves operating an analytical instrument in a well-lit laboratory setting.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Picture3-400x267.jpg "Picture3") PFAS are among today’s most complex water challenges. Unlike conventional contaminants, PFAS include thousands of compounds with different chemical behaviors, treatment responses, and evolving regulatory requirements. AI supports utilities and engineers to manage this complexity more effectively. AI can help experts optimize treatment selection by analyzing PFAS composition, water chemistry, flow rates, and treatment goals. It uses these data points to predict performance across technologies such as granular activated carbon, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and emerging destruction methods. It also improves adsorption system management by predicting media breakthroughs, helping utilities reduce unnecessary replacement costs while protecting water quality. Monitoring and compliance offer another excellent use case. PFAS testing can be expensive, but with AI, experts can combine laboratory data with online monitoring and historical trends to estimate risk between sampling events and identify unusual conditions earlier. ### Building Smarter Water Systems Water security will not come from a single technology. It requires better data, stronger decisions, and operational excellence. AI helps drive that future by improving desalination economics, increasing confidence in water reuse, and advancing PFAS treatment. Human expertise, however, remains indispensable. Technology can enhance decisions and strengthen operations, but it cannot replace the judgment, experience, and accountability of water professionals. The future of water depends on skilled people using AI as a powerful partner to build safer, more reliable, and more sustainable water systems for generations to come. — To learn how [**CDM Smith**](https://www.cdmsmith.com/) is advancing water security in practice, connect with our water reuse, desalination, and PFAS specialists to explore the technologies, services, and expertise shaping the next generation of resilient water systems. [CDM Smith PFAS Services](https://www.cdmsmith.com/priorities/pfas) [CDM Smith Water Reuse and Desalination Services](https://www.cdmsmith.com/priorities/water-reuse-and-desalination) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=How%20AI%20Is%20Transforming%20Water%20Security&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F06%2FPicture2-266x400.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=How%20AI%20Is%20Transforming%20Water%20Security "Share on 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And sometimes, there are more questions than answers. Perhaps because they’re too often disconnected, static digital representations are broadly labeled as digital twins and fall short of meeting the needs of engineers and decision-makers seeking to leverage them. Because government officials are responsible for the safety, quality, and sustainability of life in their jurisdictions, they must fundamentally understand how decisions will affect the community. For instance: - Will this zoning change result in additional infrastructure or social service needs? - Where are the populations that are most vulnerable during extreme weather? - Do they know of operational risks as they emerge and before failures occur? - How will planning decisions impact construction schedules, neighborhood functionality, and operational responsibilities? For reference, the [Digital Twin Consortium’s definition](https://www.digitaltwinconsortium.org/initiatives/the-definition-of-a-digital-twin/) of a digital twin is *“A data-driven virtual representation of real-world entities and processes, synchronized at a specified frequency and fidelity.”* A carefully designed and maintained digital twin platform connects community residents with their operational systems in real time, fostering a shared understanding that supports more informed decision-making and leads to better outcomes. Esri founder and President Jack Dangermond articulates this point succinctly: “The technology surfaces the insight. Human judgment determines what to do with it.” ## Engineering the Journey: A Digital Twin is a Means, Not an End The most valuable [digital twin](https://www.esri.com/en-us/digital-twin/overview) platforms are outcome-driven, powered by integration of other systems, and geolocated. In other words, they are designed for specific uses and built to dynamically support operational insight. With that purpose in mind, they are created using data appropriate for the use case –with known fidelity (achieved through good metadata and data governance practices), and implemented in IT/OT/ET \[information technology (IT), operational technology (OT), and engineering technology (ET)\] systems. Most importantly, they are guided by professionals with domain expertise. Vital to the dynamic capability of a digital twin is the use of both historical and real-time data to represent the past and present and to simulate predicted futures. Some examples of purpose-driven digital twins include: - Infrastructure risk monitoring - Environmental threshold alerts - Post-event damage assessment automation - Coordination across agencies such as transportation, utilities, and emergency services Because digital twins represent real-world entities and processes, location, referenced to a documented standard such as the [National Spatial Reference System (NSRS)](https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/nsrs.html), is key, regardless of the purpose for which they were built. ## ![Infographic of Digital Twin showing Real World (orange) and Virtual World (blue) circles overlapping at a central location pin labeled 'Location'. Surrounding workflow steps include Inspect/Observe, Measure/Optimize, Analyze/Model, Visualize, Design/Plan, Evaluate/Automate, Monitor/Maintain, Collect, Build/Implement.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/esri-digital-twin-pic-1.png "esri-digital-twin-pic-1")Why GIS is the Foundation for Digital Twins – and Engineering We’ve identified that location is integral to digital twin viability, as are integrated systems, revealing that GIS is central to the conversation. We have also noted that digital twins are most successful when outcome-driven. GIS enables a systems-of-systems approach, allowing us to bring together all of our outcome-driven digital twins across departments and between organizations for deeper insights. This integrated framework answers the difficult questions that government leaders and engineers face. ## ![Isometric 3D city visualization showing ArcGIS digital twins with labeled areas: Environment Twin, Emergency Management Twin, Design & Construction Twin, Network Twin, Planning Twin, and Operations Twin.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/esri-digital-twin-pic-2.png "esri-digital-twin-pic-2")AI Turns Models into Maintainable Systems – Achieving a Sustainable Digital Twin Platform A key difference between today’s digital twins and the more traditionally encountered static digital representations (e.g., models or data representing a specific snapshot in time) is the ability to be dynamic, ingesting sensor data in real-time, performing analyses automatically, and notifying decision-makers when thresholds are breached. AI — particularly [GeoAI](https://www.esri.com/en-us/capabilities/geoai/overview) — has also changed the equation, enabling engineering teams to automate tasks that previously dominated project schedules and hindered keeping data systems up to date. Some examples include: - Extracting buildings, roads, trees, and utilities from imagery and 3D data - Normalizing historical imagery to analyze long-term change - Detecting damage after fires, floods, or storms - Monitoring growth, land cover, and infrastructure conditions at scale A GIS-powered, AI-enabled, system-of-systems approach allows engineers, operators, and decision-makers to spend more time designing and problem-solving, while remaining confident that the digital twin(s) underpinning these outcomes remain reliable and sustainable. ## The GIS Solution for Digital Twin in Government When communities ask us how to build a digital twin platform, the answer doesn’t start with software. It’s about integration, governance, and clarity of purpose. GIS is the facilitator that makes all of that possible. Combined with AI, it transforms digital twins from static representations into living engineering systems — systems that help communities plan smarter, operate more safely, and adapt more confidently to change. That is where digital twins stop being aspirational and start delivering real value. [*Esri*](https://www.esri.com/en-us/about/about-esri/overview) *is the global market leader in geographic information systems (GIS) software, location intelligence, and mapping.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Digital%20Twins%20for%20Government%3A%20Powered%20by%20GIS%2C%20Accelerated%20by%20AI&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F06%2Fesri-digital-twin-thumbnail.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Digital%20Twins%20for%20Government%3A%20Powered%20by%20GIS%2C%20Accelerated%20by%20AI "Share on 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**Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=OMB%20Proposed%20Rule%20Could%20Reshape%20Federal%20Grants&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F06%2Fomb-funding-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=OMB%20Proposed%20Rule%20Could%20Reshape%20Federal%20Grants "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=OMB%20Proposed%20Rule%20Could%20Reshape%20Federal%20Grants&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## What the Proposed Rule Would Change The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and more than 40 federal agencies published a proposed rule on May 29, 2026, that would fundamentally restructure the terms under which federal awards are managed. If enacted, the proposed rule would shift the current OMB guidance on grants from a framework into more formal regulations that would apply to all recipients of federal funding. Under the current Uniform Guidance, agencies have discretion to interpret federal grant-making policies to meet agency-specific needs. By transforming the guidance into regulations, which are legally binding, the OMB rules would remove this discretion from agencies and apply a fixed set of criteria to all government agencies and federal grants, cooperative assistance and other forms of federal assistance. In addition, future regulatory changes would be required to adhere to time-consuming federal rulemaking procedures, thus making it more difficult for future administrations to update these rules. If promulgated, the proposed regulations will have sweeping implications. Titled the [*Regulation for Federal Financial Assistance*,](https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2026-10817) the 400+ page proposal aims to convert standard grant guidelines into federal rules, thereby drastically increasing executive-branch oversight over billions of dollars in federal research, healthcare, culture, and infrastructure grants. If finalized as written, the regulations would take effect on October 1, 2026. Public comments on the plan are currently being accepted via Regulations.gov through July 13, 2026. ## Why Researchers, Universities, and Nonprofits Are Concerned OMB has stated the proposed revisions are intended to improve transparency, accountability, and oversight for awards across the federal government, while also reducing the burden on recipients. However, the proposal has received strong condemnation from the scientific and research communities, with stated concerns that the rule would relegate traditional scientific peer review to a purely advisory role, giving senior political appointees final approval on grants. The proposed rule would also provide agency leaders with the authority to suspend or terminate grants with no path for recipient appeals, destroying the financial predictability that research relies on. The rule would also ban the use of grant funds to cover scientific publication costs unless explicitly required by statute, effectively blocking researchers from utilizing grants for open access publishing. ## Key Provisions of the Proposed Rule ### Political Pre-Issuance Review Federal agency heads must designate senior political appointees to review all discretionary grant proposals before funding is finalized. The rule explicitly mandates that traditional scientific peer-review panels will remain “advisory” and cannot override political agency discretion. ### Alignment with Presidential Priorities Awards must demonstrably advance the President’s policy priorities. Political reviewers must evaluate applications to ensure compliance with administrative benchmarks, such as the executive definition of “Gold Standard Science.” ### Expanded Discretionary Termination Federal agencies will gain the explicit authority to temporarily suspend or permanently cancel any active grant at any time. Grants can be terminated “for convenience” if the agency determines the award no longer aligns with shifting agency priorities or the “national interest.” ### Social Policy Prohibitions The rule implements cross-cutting bans that prohibit federal grant funds from being used to promote, encourage, or subsidize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. ### Foreign Collaboration Restrictions Grantees will face a near-total ban on using federal funds to support bilateral or multilateral research, agreements, or travel involving “covered foreign countries” (designated foreign adversaries) or affiliated foreign entities. ### Narrowed Cost Allowances Broad limitations are introduced for what counts as an “allowable cost.” Most notably, the rule makes research publication costs unallowable unless mandated by statute, and requires express, advance agency approval for conference attendance and travel costs. ### Justification for All Payment Requests Grant recipients and subrecipients will be required to provide a written, detailed justification for every single payment request, whether it is for an advance payment or a reimbursement, linking the funds to specific project milestones. ## What Happens Next Major organizations, including ASCE, are currently petitioning the OMB to extend the 45-day public comment window to at least 90 days to fully assess the immense structural impact. Meanwhile, ASCE is analyzing the proposed rule and will be submitting comments. ### How Stakeholders Can Submit Comments For those interested in submitting their own comments, ASCE has developed a [draft comment](https://www.votervoice.net/ASCE/Campaigns/137991/Respond) that can be customized and submitted on your behalf. 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email")](mailto:?subject=OMB%20Proposed%20Rule%20Could%20Reshape%20Federal%20Grants&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** research --- ### [ASCE Leads Infrastructure Week Engagement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-leads-infrastructure-week-engagement/) **Published:** May 28, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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nation’s infrastructure network. Infrastructure Week provides an opportunity to recognize the impact and importance of infrastructure to the nation’s quality of life, economy, and security. To promote public activities and outreach, ASCE developed an engagement [toolkit](https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7qmyobe8oww1ahz74dv1g/ASCE-2026-Infrastructure-Week-Engagement-Toolkit.pdf?rlkey=agjnq4ykz47kigysyosqqtk70&st=bz4mt2tz&dl=0) to help plan communications and outreach. To kick off the week, ASCE published *Grading the States*, a new interactive storymap which showcases the ASCE state infrastructure report card program. The storymap highlights how state report cards are created, interaction with ASCE advocacy, and a state-by-state grade comparison. The storymap is available [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/?_gl=1%2Axbuyh0%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2AMjk5MTA3Njg5LjE3Nzk5MDQ2MDc.%2A_ga_C9EX6BGYX5%2AczE3Nzk5MDQ2MDYkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzk5MDQ2MDYkajYwJGwwJGgw). Additionally, ASCE supported the United for Infrastructure signature event in Washington, DC. UFI is a collaborative initiative with ASCE serving as a steering committee members alongside the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Counties, and National League of Cities among other leading national infrastructure organizations. Hosted at Business Roundtable, the event featured notable speakers including Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster, House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Rick Larsen (WA), and Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins. For one of the breakout sessions, ASCE President Marsha Anderson Bomar was joined by Dr. Freddy Paige, Assistant Professor at Virginia Tech University, provided updates on ASCE’s work to enhance the engineering workforce. On another breakout panel, David Sklar, Senior Vice President with WSP and member of ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure, addressed attendees on opportunities to advance infrastructure financing and public-private partnerships. ASCE also hosted its latest *Making the Grade* webinar exploring ASCE’s report card and the state of school infrastructure. Co-hosted with the Build America’s Schools Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC), the session showcased the “Schools” chapter of the 2025 ASCE Report Card with infrastructure and engineering perspectives shared on funding, resilience, condition, and other critical areas. A recap of the event is available [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-report-card-school-facilities-webinar/). At the state and local level, ASCE advocates led outreach and engagement across the country. - In Mobile, the AL Section of ASCE partnered for a showcase of the Mobile International Airport’s expansion. The $362 million project will add capacity through a new terminal. The event was also promoted as a part of the Engineering and Public Works Roadshow supported by ASCE, the American Public Works Association, and American Council of Engineering Companies. - The Alaska ASCE Section led I-Week engagement including a proclamation from Juneau Mayor Beth Weldon, ribbon cutting events at several harbor sites, and legislative briefing on the 2025 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure. - Miami-Dade’s branch of ASCE partnered w. Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins on a proclamation honoring Infrastructure Week. - The ASCE Louisiana Section hosted its 2026 Legislative Drive-In in Baton Rouge. The event included a presentation on the 2025 Report Card for Louisiana’s Infrastructure. Additionally, section members met with legislators to discuss ongoing infrastructure needs and opportunities. - The ASCE North Carolina Section led a special briefing to state legislative staff on its *2026 Report Card for North Carolina’s Infrastructure.* ![Group of professionals posing for a photo in front of Marquis Ballroom B with a framed proclamation on a stand nearby.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/nyc-infra-week-proclamation-300x400.jpg "nyc-infra-week-proclamation")![Group of professionals posing for a photo at an ASCE Louisiana Section event, with a sponsor banner in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/louisiana-infra-week-drive-in-400x300.jpg "louisiana-infra-week-drive-in")![Five professionally dressed individuals pose indoors, holding a framed proclamation in front of city seals on the wall behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/infra-week-miami-400x300.jpg "infra-week-miami") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Leads%20Infrastructure%20Week%20Engagement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F05%2Finfrastructure-week-2026-1-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Leads%20Infrastructure%20Week%20Engagement "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Hosted by the Build America Schools Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC) and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), the event provided an overview of the *[2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* which graded schools “[D+.”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) Issues across funding, safety, operation and maintenance among other criteria were discussed as well as recommendations to improve school infrastructure. Panelist discussion centered on continued challenges inhibiting facility development and improvements with key policy insight shared on funding availability to meet ongoing capital and maintenance expenses. Additional perspective was shared on upgrading facilities for greater resilience with a spotlight on school redevelopment post-disaster in the US Virgin Islands. Further exchange focused on how design can influence education outcomes and innovative financing through public-private partnerships can lead to more efficient deployment of resources. An outlook on federal policy and advocacy was also highlighted. Featured speakers for this discussion were: - Mary Filardo, Executive Director, 21st Century Schools Fund - Pamela Loeffelman, Senior Principal, DLR Group - Bill Bradley, Principal, Practice Leader, Stantec - Ally Talcott, Executive Director, BASIC - Greg DiLoreto, ASCE Past President & Member, ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure A special thank you to DLR Group for their sponsorship of the event! The webinar slides are [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/schools-webinar-slides.pdf). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=School%20Infrastructure%20Examined%20in%20Latest%20ASCE%20Report%20Card%20Webinar&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized, Webinars & Events --- ### [House Advances BUILD America 250 Surface Transportation Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-reauthorization-build-america-250/) **Published:** May 22, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Advances%20BUILD%20America%20250%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")# House Advances BUILD America 250 Surface Transportation Bill ## Key Developments During Infrastructure Week Professionals expecting an eventful Infrastructure Week got more than they bargained for, as committees in the House of Representatives made progress on the newly introduced BUILD America 250 legislation to reauthorize federal surface transportation programs. ## BUILD America 250 Act Advances in Committee The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on May 21st and 22nd marked up and approved the Building Unrivaled Infrastructure and Long-term Development for America’s 250th (BUILD America 250) Act ([H.R. 8870](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/8870)) by a vote of 62 – 2. The bill represents long-awaited legislation to reauthorize surface transportation programs at $580 billion between Fiscal Years (FY) 2027 and 2031 and is the culmination of months of negotiations between lawmakers. All the while, ASCE engaged on this legislation, sharing reauthorization recommendations with committee members. In addition to sustaining infrastructure funding, the BUILD America 250 Act contains provisions to enhance project delivery, improve safety, and support research – all of which are in line with ASCE’s reauthorization recommendations. ## New Revenue Proposals for the Highway Trust Fund In a step that would represent the first new stream of revenue in decades for the Highway Trust Fund, the BUILD America 250 Act proposes annual registration fees of $130 for electric vehicles and $35 for plug-in hybrid vehicles. ## Major Investments in Bridge Infrastructure Bridges are a particular emphasis in the BUILD America 250 Act. In addition to proposing a $46 billion Bridge Formula Program and a $10 billion Bridge Completion Program, the bill would establish an interagency bridge strike working group and commission a study on best practices for addressing corrosion on weathering steel bridges. ## NEPA Reforms and Project Delivery Changes Streamlining the review process associated with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) is another focus area of the BUILD America 250 Act. The bill contains provisions to increase the use of NEPA assignment, clarify the use of categorical exclusions, and designate a single modal administration to serve as the federal lead agency during the review process. ## Resilience Funding and PROTECT Program Changes The BUILD America 250 Act rolls back some programs geared toward infrastructure resilience, scrapping formula funding for the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT) Program. However, the bill provides $2.5 billion over five years for discretionary PROTECT grants. It also adds eligibility for resilience projects to other programs. ASCE strongly advocated for continued funding for the PROTECT Program and submitted requests to Congressional offices asking lawmakers to file an amendment to reinstate formula funding for the program. ## Additional House Activity on Transportation Reauthorization Although the BUILD America 250 Act dominated many of the transportation-related headlines this week, it was not the only piece of reauthorization legislation that advanced. ### Science Committee Advances Research and Development Legislation The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology on May 20th passed the research and development title of the package, the Surface Transportation and Research Development Act of 2026 (H.R. 8748), which reauthorizes DOT’s research, technology, and data programs through FY 2031. ### Energy and Commerce Committee Addresses Vehicle Safety Also on May 21st, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce approved its title, an amendment in the nature of a substitute to the Motor Vehicle Modernization Act of 2026 (H.R. 7389), which addresses vehicle safety programs under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). ## Additional Resources For a detailed memorandum on the BUILD America 250 Act, please [click here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/asce-build-america-250-act-memo.pdf). 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AIA.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/infra-finance-webinar-1-400x267.png "infra-finance-webinar-1") ASCE along with the Association for the Improvement of American Infrastructure (AIAI) will be hosting an upcoming virtual event sharing key guidance on infrastructure finance and public-private partnerships. The 75-minute webinar, Understanding Infrastructure Finance and P3 Delivery, will provide engineers with a policy-focused introduction to P3s—designed specifically for professionals who are not finance specialists, but who play a critical role in project development and implementation. As infrastructure funding gaps widen and project complexity increases, public agencies are turning to alternative delivery models, including Public-Private Partnerships (P3s), to accelerate project delivery and better manage long-term risk. For engineers, these models can raise important questions: How does financing differ from traditional public funding? What role does public policy play in shaping P3 projects? And where does the engineer fit within a developer-led delivery structure? Specifically, the session will explore: - The policy and legislative frameworks that enable P3s at the federal and state levels - The distinction between funding and financing—and why it matters in today’s infrastructure environment - How procurement statutes, risk allocation policies, and oversight requirements influence project structure - The evolving role of public sector engineers within P3 delivery models, from early-stage scoping and performance standards to compliance oversight and lifecycle accountability - How engineers help shape project requirements and protect the public interest—even within developer-led teams Importantly, this conversation will address a common concern in the engineering community: the perception of diminished control under alternative delivery models. Participants will gain clarity on how P3s represent not a loss of professional authority, but a shift in methodology—one that elevates the engineer’s role in defining performance expectations, ensuring compliance with public standards, and advancing innovation in infrastructure delivery. ![Event banner for Infrastructure Finance and P3 Delivery Webinar with three panelists: Diana Ramirez, Dr. Shawn Wilson, and Sia Kusha (headshots shown).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/infra-finance-webinar-2-400x267.png "infra-finance-webinar-2") Featured panelists for this session: - Sia Kusha, Group Head, Business Development and Partnering, Plenary Americas - Dr. Shawn Wilson, Senior Vice President, National Highway Business Leader, WSP - Diana Ramirez, Senior Advisor, Association for the Improvement of American Infrastructure Join us on June 23 at 3pm ET/12pm PT! This webinar will qualify for 1.5 PDHs. (Professional Development Hours) [Register Now!](https://sp360.asce.org/PersonifyEbusiness/Events/Events-Calendar/Meeting-Registration/productid/330689280) Registration Fee $95 ASCE Membership is not required to register. 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**Published:** May 18, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Kicks%20off%20Infrastructure%20Week%20with%20new%20Grading%20the%20States%20StoryMap&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F05%2Fstate-report-card-story-map-2-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Kicks%20off%20Infrastructure%20Week%20with%20new%20Grading%20the%20States%20StoryMap "Share on 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The StoryMap, *Grading the States: A State-by-State Assessment of the Nation’s Infrastructure*, explains how state report cards are developed—from convening volunteer committees and conducting rigorous reviews to releasing the final reports. It also showcases examples of how state report cards have been used for advocacy, compares grades across key infrastructure categories, highlights common themes emerging across states, and previews upcoming report cards. *Grading the States* is ASCE’s third ArcGIS StoryMap, following the release of [*Infrastructure is Everywhere*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) last year and [*Ground-Level Resiliency*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) earlier this year. You can view [*Grading the States*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) here and learn more about state infrastructure report cards [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/?_gl=1%2A15gejpv%2A_up%2AMQ..%2A_ga%2AMzI4ODk0NTEyLjE3Nzg3ODM1MTc.%2A_ga_C9EX6BGYX5%2AczE3Nzg3ODM1MTYkbzEkZzAkdDE3Nzg3ODM1MTYkajYwJGwwJGgw). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Kicks%20off%20Infrastructure%20Week%20with%20new%20Grading%20the%20States%20StoryMap&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized --- ### [FEMA Reform Proposal Signals Major Shift in Disaster Policy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fema-reform-proposal-report/) **Published:** May 13, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=FEMA%20Reform%20Proposal%20Signals%20Major%20Shift%20in%20Disaster%20Policy&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## What the 2026 FEMA reform proposal would change The future of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is full of uncertainty as a major Administration proposal would decentralize disaster response, shift primary responsibility to state and local governments, and make significant cuts to the agency’s workforce. Key changes focus on streamlining aid, reducing duplicative environmental reviews, and implementing long-term, technology-driven resilience strategies through 2050. ## Why the report matters for federal disaster policy The recommendations of the Final Report: [*The President’s Council to Assess the Federal Emergency Agenc*y](https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2026-05/26_0507_fema%20review%20council_final%20report.pdf) (May 7, 2026) aim to strengthen FEMA as a “force multiplier” rather than a first responder. If implemented, the changes would result in the most significant restructuring of federal disaster assistance since the creation of FEMA in 1979. Critically, the Council itself expressed a preference for legislative action, stating that “the Council advocates for legislative action to ensure a systemic and sustained transformation of the current approach to disaster management.” Most of the recommendations in the report will require Congressional action, which, given the shortened legislative calendar and looming mid-term elections, will be difficult this year. ## Key recommendations and findings - **State-Led Response**: Recommends shifting leadership of disaster response/recovery to the state level. - **Funding Thresholds**: Proposes increasing the damage threshold for public assistance by over 50%, which would have disqualified roughly 29% of previous disasters from federal funding. - **Reduced Bureaucracy**: Aims to reduce administrative costs by capping administrative expenses, noting that up to twenty-five cents of every dollar are sometimes spent on administrative costs. - **Focus on Private Market**: Recommends a strategic shift toward private market insurance for covering flood risk. - **Mission Focus**: Argues for addressing “mission creep” and streamlining, rather than simply increasing staffing, to fix agency inefficiencies. ## Implications for states, localities, and infrastructure resilience Reactions to the recommendations have included concerns that the proposed changes would represent a significant transfer of responsibility – and cost – to states and localities. More specifically, state, and local governments would have to adapt to a much smaller federal on-the-ground presence in most disasters, higher thresholds to qualify for federal assistance, and greater expectations around local capability and resource management. The report’s recommendations would preserve certain critical federal capabilities, including Urban Search and Rescue task forces, the National Disaster Medical System, the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), and retaining the Emergency Management Performance Grant with a potential one-time funding increase to help support the transition to the new framework it proposes. Smaller, rural, and under-resourced communities would face the greatest risk if state governments do not adequately fill the gaps created by a reduced federal role. ## Congressional response and political outlook Congressional reaction to the report has been deeply divided along partisan lines, with Republican leaders aligning with the administration’s proposed overhaul toward state-led disaster response, while Democrats strongly criticize the recommendations as dangerous, calling them “reckless” and an effort to further reduce the size of the federal work force. ## What this means for the future of resilience policy The report lands at a unique moment in FEMA’s history, when there is now broad agreement that the agency is past due for an overhaul. The bipartisan [Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025](https://transportation.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409041) (H.R. 4669), known as the “FEMA Act,” cleared the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (T&I Committee) in September 2025 and provides the natural legislative vehicle to carry many of the Council’s recommendations into law. It includes many, but by no means all, of the report’s recommendations. ASCE has endorsed H.R. 4669 and supports its measured reforms of FEMA while maintaining its focus of resilience. As FEMA reform moves, ASCE will continue to work with Congress to advocate for continued focus on resilience, support for building codes, and other ASCE priorities. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=FEMA%20Reform%20Proposal%20Signals%20Major%20Shift%20in%20Disaster%20Policy&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized **Tags:** disaster recovery, FEMA, resilience --- ### [ASCE, Partners to Celebrate Infrastructure Week 2026: May 18-22!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-week-2026/) **Published:** May 13, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%2C%20Partners%20to%20Celebrate%20Infrastructure%20Week%202026%3A%20May%2018-22%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Join the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) as well as state, local, and national partners as we celebrate Infrastructure Week 2026 from May 18 – 22! ## ![Join ASCE for United for Infrastructure Week 2026](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Infra-Week-2026-400x400.jpg "Infra Week 2026")Why Infrastructure Week 2026 Matters Infrastructure Week provides an opportunity to recognize the impact and importance of infrastructure to the nation’s quality of life, economy, and security. Activities and events are scheduled to showcase how investment, collaboration, and policy are aligning to rebuild and strengthen U.S. infrastructure. ## ASCE Toolkit Supports Local Engagement ASCE has developed a [toolkit](https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/7qmyobe8oww1ahz74dv1g/ASCE-2026-Infrastructure-Week-Engagement-Toolkit.pdf?rlkey=agjnq4ykz47kigysyosqqtk70&st=bz4mt2tz&dl=0) providing ASCE members and related infrastructure stakeholders with key guidance on options for engagement activities throughout the week. Options listed in the guide include in-person events, social media communications, and government proclamations. For example, aligned with recent [state report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) releases, several ASCE sections are planning virtual events and coordinating proclamations with governor and mayoral offices. ## Washington, DC Events Spotlight National Priorities In Washington DC, several Infrastructure Week events are scheduled – check out details from United for Infrastructure [here](https://www.unitedforinfrastructure.org/infra-week-2026). ASCE will be supporting UFI’s signature event on May 19 at Business Roundtable. Transportation, energy, and water will be highlighted during plenary sessions; breakout discussions will provide stakeholder perspectives across permitting, workforce, and finance. ASCE will be co-leading the latter sessions on workforce and finance. ## Mobile Event Highlights Airport Infrastructure Investment ![Under-construction glass-fronted building with reflective windows; construction site with equipment, dirt ground, and two cranes in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/l_25-05-12-MobileIntl-Const-34_144303-150x150.jpg "l_25-05-12-MobileIntl-Const-34_144303")Mobile Airport Courtesy Business AlabamaASCE will also be in Mobile, Alabama on May 21st to highlight work being done on its new airport. A co-hosted event with the American Public Works Association (APWA) and American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), state and local elected officials and leaders will be present to provide remarks and describe the value of the upgraded airport to Mobile and the greater South Alabama region. For more information, check out the ASCE-APWA-ACEC Engineering and Public Works Roadshow [here](https://www.infrastructureroadshow.org/). ## ![Logo for Engineering & Public Works Roadshow – Infrastructure Works, featuring an orange sun/circle with a city skyline and a blue road graphic.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Engineering-PW-Roadshow-400x122.png "Engineering PW Roadshow")How to Get Involved During Infrastructure Week 2026 For any questions on celebrating Infrastructure Week at the state or local level, please contact ASCE’s Director of Grassroots Initiatives [Lizzie Dorman](mailto:edorman@asce.org). 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ASCE voices opposition](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-holiday-threatens-infrastructure-funding/) **Published:** May 13, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F05%2Fgas-tax-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F05%2Fgas-tax-featured-image.png&description=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Gas%20tax%20holiday%20gains%20traction%20with%20Republican%20support%3B%20ASCE%20voices%20opposition&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## Gas Tax Holiday Gains Momentum in Washington The White House and some Republican lawmakers recently added momentum to a legislative proposal to suspend the federal gas tax, providing drivers with a temporary federal gas tax holiday. ASCE is urging Congress to reject the idea, warning that a suspension would weaken Highway Trust Fund revenue, threaten long-term transportation funding, and may not deliver meaningful savings to drivers. The Highway Trust find is the primary federal funding source for [road](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/), [bridge](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/), and other transportation infrastructure. Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) on May 11th introduced the [Gas Tax Suspension Act,](https://www.hawley.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/GAI26303.pdf) which would suspend the federal tax on gas and diesel for 90 days. The bill would allow the president to extend the suspension for an additional 90 days if he determines economic conditions merit a continued pause. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) indicated she would lead a corresponding legislative effort in the U.S. House of Representatives. President Donald Trump said in an interview May 11th that he would support pausing the federal gas tax for some time. ## What’s Driving Calls to Suspend the Gas Tax? This proposal has gained momentum as a response to high fuel prices, which have soared primarily because of the Iran war and the blocking of the Strait of Hormuz. As of May 12th, 2026, the national average price of a gallon of gasoline was $4.50, while the national average price for a gallon of diesel was $5.64, according to AAA. Some Democratic lawmakers have been promoting a pause on the federal gas tax for months. On March 9th, Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the [Gas Prices Relief Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/4032/titles), which would suspend the federal gas tax through October 1st, 2026. Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) is leading companion legislation in the House. ## Why ASCE Strongly Opposes a Gas Tax Holiday ![Protect infrastructure funding by opposing the suspension of the federal gas tax](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/protect-infrastructure-funding-400x267.png "protect-infrastructure-funding")ASCE’s opposition to a proposed gas tax holiday has been swift and widespread. This week, ASCE issued a Key Alert to its members, [released a press statement](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/society-news/article/2026/05/12/asce-statement-on-calls-to-suspend-the-federal-gas-tax), and s[ent a letter](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2026-05-12-asce-letter-congressional-leadership-opposing-gas-tax-suspension-proposals.pdf) to House and Senate leaders advising them against it ASCE also joined its partners in the Transportation Construction Coalition, which held its annual Fly-In in Washington from May 12th-13th, in sending a letter to members of Congress opposing a gas tax suspension. ASCE strongly opposes any efforts to suspend the gas tax at the federal and state levels. The primary funding mechanism for the nation’s transportation networks, the gas tax rate has not changed since 1993 and its purchasing power has declined considerably over the past three decades. Suspending the gas tax would result in the loss of billions in revenue from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), significantly diminishing much of the progress made in recent years to improve our nation’s vital infrastructure systems. Any prolonged pause in the collection of gas tax revenue could also make it more difficult for Congress to enact a surface transportation reauthorization bill before existing programs expire September 30th. ## A Suspension Won’t Guarantee Savings at the Pump A gas tax suspension would not necessarily guarantee savings for consumers. A variety of factors, such as supply and demand, affect the prices people actually see when they pull up to a fuel station. Furthermore, there is no mechanism to ensure motorists would see any real relief at the pump. ## Long-Term Risks to Infrastructure Funding These legislative proposals would also set an irresponsible precedent of suspending critical federal transportation funding whenever there is volatility at the pump. Additionally, undoing a gas tax suspension would be difficult and unpopular if one is enacted, especially if fuel prices have not come down, further threatening the largest source of revenue for the HTF. ## Tell Congress: Protect the Highway Trust Fund ASCE will continue to monitor legislative efforts to suspend the federal gas tax and communicate with ASCE’s members on how to engage in this important issue. [Click here to write your members of Congress](https://www.votervoice.net/ASCE/Campaigns/135411/Respond) to urge them to reject a gas tax holiday and protect the Highway Trust Fund. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Brings%20Together%20Infrastructure%20%26%20Policy%20Leaders%20to%20Showcase%20Innovation&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F01%2Finfrastructure-solutions-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Brings%20Together%20Infrastructure%20%26%20Policy%20Leaders%20to%20Showcase%20Innovation "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png 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ASCE’s Innovation Forum, hosted by the [Reservoir Center for Water Solutions](https://www.reservoircenter.org/), brought together various stakeholders to share perspective and response on the latest challenges and opportunities shaping project and program delivery in the built environment. Select panels focused on key recommendations from the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure across workforce, water, transportation, and disaster response. Following a short welcome by Josh Mahan, Xylem’s Director of Government and Industry Relations, ASCE’s president Marsha Anderson Bomar gave opening remarks describing how innovation has driven infrastructure planning and implementation, and the prospects ahead in this space. ## Leadership, Technology, and Transformation ![Panel discussion with two women on stage in front of a large screen displaying sponsor logos (CDM Smith and ASCE).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/innovation-forum2-150x150.jpg "innovation-forum2")Hala Titus, North America President of CDM Smith, was the keynote speaker for the “waterside chat” on leadership, technology, and transformation. Hala introduced the audience to CDM Smith as a major player in infrastructure design and delivery in the U.S. and globally. The conversation turned from finance and risk to adapting technology for solutions in water systems and related facilities. Human capital was also explored with discussion on fostering skills to drive the workforce of the future. Other issues were elevated through a leadership lens bringing focus on engagement through coordination with partners and with communication that matters. ## Building Tomorrow’s Infrastructure Workforce Moderated by Jennifer Todd (A Greener Tomorrow), the workforce session centered policy and processes which lead to improved outcomes for workers in meeting the job demands of today and in the future. Panelists Tom Smith (US Army Corps of Engineers), Dana Westgren (VirginiaWorks), and Martha Ross (Brookings) discussed how workers are being trained, obstacles to ensure education meets expected skills and responsibilities, and the landscape of programs aligned with industry and employer demands. While historic investment has been directed by the federal government into infrastructure investment, panelists concurred a huge opportunity was missed in matching job training the expansion of project development created by renewed resources. General agreement was signaled as well by speakers to enhance coordination among employers and job training providers at the local, regional, and state levels to ensure training meets employer needs. ## Spotlight on Local Project Delivery John Thomas, Chief Performance Officer for the DC Department of Transportation, shared insight on technology and policy updates transforming the District’s transportation network. The department has incorporated several key processes and tools proving better efficiencies and outcomes; these include permitting reforms with utilities and asset management using drones, lidar, and mapping technologies. Presentation slides are [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/dc-dot-innovation-presentation.pdf). ## Solutions in Water Quality and Efficiency ![Two women on a panel stage: one in a pink blazer holding papers and the other in a green dress speaking into a microphone, with a blue 'Today's Sponsor' backdrop behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/innovation-forum3-150x150.jpg "innovation-forum3")Innovations in water systems were shared by Renee Willette (Xylem), Alan Wong (WSSC), and Anna Pridmore (Structural Technologies). Moderated by Carol Haddock (ASCE), the session explored technologies, processes, and data availability to support system advancements. Aspects of engineering, tools, and utility management were raised using recent examples and emerging trends in drinking water and wastewater. Solutions highlighted include regionalization of water systems, incorporation on software to monitor issues and improve data collection, and increased collaboration among stakeholders for improved performance. ## Innovation in Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Moderator Mark Pestrella (LA County Public Works) led the session on improved tools and approaches on disaster response. Joined by panelists Stan Gimont (Hagerty Consulting), Sara McTarnaghan (Urban Institute), and Derrick Hiebert (AECOM), the conversation provided key insight for jurisdictions to adequately address mitigation and recovery needs. Discussion also noted the immense challenges involved in acquiring and deploying limited resources to rebuild following major disaster events. LA’s palisades fire was a central part of the session with Los Angeles County taking the lead among several communities to restore property and infrastructure. ## Learn More The Innovation Forum is the second of three events providing more in-depth exploration of recommendations in the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The next forum is scheduled this September on Resilience. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Minnesota%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20C%20in%20ASCE%E2%80%99s%202026%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## Minnesota Infrastructure Report Card 2026 Overview On Thursday, April 30th, the [Minnesota Section](https://ascemn.org) and [Duluth Section](https://sections.asce.org/duluth/) of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released the [*2026 Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota/) at the State Capitol building in Saint Paul. A press release was also held at the Duluth International Airport. The report card covers 11 categories of infrastructure, including stormwater for the first time. Yet, the overall grade remains a “C”, unchanged from the grade Minnesota received in 2022 and aligned with the national infrastructure grade from ASCE’s 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The grade of “C” is a mediocre rating, indicating a need for sustained, strategic investment in preservation, resilience, and modernization ## Infrastructure Categories Showing Improvement ### Bridges (C+) Minnesota oversees over 21,000 bridges, but aging infrastructure is shifting many into fair condition (now over 7,100) despite slight declines in poor ratings. With $10.5 billion in needs and only $6.8 billion expected, a $3.7 billion gap threatens safety, mobility, and the economy. Closing it requires earlier investment, steady funding, and modern preservation efforts. ### Energy (C+) Minnesota uses over four times more energy than it produces, relying on imports. While more than half of its electricity now comes from zero-carbon sources, the transition is straining an aging grid with limited transmission capacity and flexibility. Retiring coal plants, rising demand, extreme weather, and reduced federal funding increase reliability risks. Sustaining progress will require major investments in transmission, storage, permitting reform, and grid modernization. ### Ports (C) Minnesota’s ports move 50+ million tons annually, with Duluth-Superior handling over half. Much infrastructure is past its 50-year design life, and funding falls far short by over 200%, leaving repairs and dredging unmet. Without sustained investment, especially in aging private docks and constrained river terminals, the state risks losing freight capacity, competitiveness, and resilience. ### Transit (C) Minnesota’s transit system delivers 63 million trips annually and has expanded service post‑pandemic, but ridership remains 40% below 2019 levels, access to jobs has declined, and over 10% of Greater Minnesota’s fleet is past its useful life. Without stable long‑term funding, stronger workforce retention, and better statewide data, the system will struggle to maintain a state of good repair. ## Infrastructure Systems Holding Steady ### Dams (C) Minnesota’s 1,156 dams are rapidly aging, and a small number of high‑hazard structures pose significant risks. The 2024 Rapidan Dam failure highlights the cost of deferred maintenance, while the $24 million Lake Bronson rebuild shows what proactive investment can achieve. Preventing future failures will require more funding, stronger preparedness, and support for local and private dam owners. ### Drinking Water (C-) Minnesota has over 6,500 drinking water systems that face mounting pressure from aging infrastructure, drought, workforce shortages, and rising regulatory demands. With over $3.6B in funding requests over five years, needs far exceed resources. Ensuring safe, resilient, and affordable water will require increased investment, faster lead line replacement, workforce support, and system upgrades to address emerging contaminants and climate risks. ### Public Parks (B-) Minnesota’s parks system draws over 65 million regional visits annually and supports a $12.5 billion tourism economy, but aging assets are straining resources. With a $778 million maintenance backlog, 675 state buildings in poor condition, and annual needs topping $211 million, expansion risks outpacing upkeep. Without new investment, system quality, access, and long‑term costs will worsen. ### Roads (D+) Minnesota’s vast road network faces a $20 billion funding gap that threatens pavement quality, safety, and mobility. While conditions have improved in places, aging roads, rising costs, congestion, and climate impacts are driving broader deterioration. Without sustained funding and modernization, road performance and economic competitiveness will decline. ### Wastewater (C) Minnesota’s wastewater systems face a widening funding gap, with over $800 million in annual capital needs and limited financing, leaving aging infrastructure vulnerable. While current capacity serves 84% of residents, old systems drive rising costs, regulatory pressures, and health risks. Without sustained investment and stronger support for small communities, failures, costs, and environmental impacts will grow. ### Stormwater (D+ New Category) Minnesota’s stormwater systems are under growing strain from aging infrastructure, heavier precipitation, and development. With 23% of culverts and 12% of ponds in poor condition, and over $3.4 billion in identified needs, funding covers only a fraction of projects annually. Without major investment in upgrades, tracking, and green infrastructure, flood risks and system failures will rise. ## Infrastructure Categories Facing Decline ### Aviation (B-) Minnesota’s aviation system generates more than $18 billion in annual economic impact, but aging facilities and rising demand are straining capacity. Strong safety and pavement performance contrast sharply with a projected $6.15 billion funding need through 2029, far exceeding predictable federal and state resources. To maintain reliability and statewide access, Minnesota must modernize funding tools, accelerate asset management, and invest strategically in resilience and innovation. ## The Path Forward for Minnesota’s Infrastructure ASCE has five overarching recommendations to increase the grade in Minnesota: - **Secure dedicated, sustainable funding**: Establish reliable, dedicated funding so agencies can plan, preserve, and deliver projects efficiently, especially for small disadvantaged communities, and ensure utility rates reflect the true cost of service provided. - **Streamline processes and foster innovation:** Streamline permitting and decision‑making while using modern standards, data, and innovative delivery methods to reduce costs and improve outcomes. - **Support comprehensive asset management:** Prioritize asset management, regular inspections, and data‑driven planning to extend the life of existing infrastructure and avoid costly failures. - **Embed resilience into all infrastructure decisions**: Design and build infrastructure for conditions we can expect in the future. Include resilience into every infrastructure decision to account for future demand, system reliability, and climate risks. - **Invest in workforce and public engagement:** Invest in training, competitive wages, and clear public communication to build the infrastructure workforce and sustain long-term investment. We want to thank the ASCE members in Minnesota who volunteered their time and expertise to research, write, and support the release of the *2026 Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure.* The report card is ASCE’s most valuable advocacy tool and a resource to help advocate for better infrastructure at all levels of government. 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"Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Building%20With%20Nature%3A%20How%20Green%20Infrastructure%20Is%20Shaping%20the%20Cities%20of%20Tomorrow&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F04%2FCourtesy-of-GettyImages-Ziviani.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Building%20With%20Nature%3A%20How%20Green%20Infrastructure%20Is%20Shaping%20the%20Cities%20of%20Tomorrow "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Building%20With%20Nature%3A%20How%20Green%20Infrastructure%20Is%20Shaping%20the%20Cities%20of%20Tomorrow&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Each Earth Day offers an opportunity to reflect on how infrastructure decisions shape the natural and built environments for generations. As weather patterns intensify, resulting in more heat, flooding, and water scarcity, civil engineers are increasingly embracing green infrastructure and nature‑based solutions to improve sustainability and resilience—the ability of infrastructure systems to withstand, adapt to, and recover from disruption. That focus on resilience is echoed in ASCE’s 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, which found that while the nation’s overall grade improved to a “C,” many systems remain vulnerable to climate stressors, aging assets, and capacity constraints. The report underscores that future infrastructure investments must prioritize long‑term performance and adaptability, not just near‑term repairs. **What Engineers Mean by Green Infrastructure** Green infrastructure integrates natural processes into the delivery of traditional infrastructure services such as transportation, water management, energy, and public space. These approaches—from floodable parks and restored wetlands to permeable pavements and urban tree canopies—are increasingly recognized as cost‑effective resilience tools. The 2025 Report Card highlights that sectors such as stormwater, wastewater, levees, and public parks remain among the most exposed to climate risk. Nature‑based and hybrid solutions can help address these vulnerabilities by absorbing excess water, reducing urban heat, and extending asset service life—often at lower life‑cycle costs than conventional gray infrastructure alone. These solutions are being implemented in communities across the globe. **Reimagining Urban Corridors in Dubai** Few environments pose greater engineering challenges than dense cities in arid climates. In Dubai, planners and engineers are proposing to transform a major transportation corridor into a multifunctional green system ![Futuristic cityscape with elevated solar-powered rail lines and sleek glass trains running through a green, palm-lined corridor toward a distant skyline.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rendering-Courtesy-of-URB-400x267.jpg "Dubai Green Spine")Dubai Green Spine Rendering courtesy of URBdesigned to improve livability, mobility, and environmental performance. The Dubai Green Spine concept would convert more than 60 kilometers of highway into a linear urban corridor, integrating renewable energy, shaded pedestrian and cycling routes, urban agriculture, and extensive tree canopies. In addition to reducing urban heat and improving air quality, the project would enhance system resilience by diversifying transportation options and mitigating climate‑related stresses on public infrastructure. **Rethinking Water Resilience with Offshore Desalination** Aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure face increasing pressure from drought, population growth, and extreme weather. ![Row of five underwater sensors with tall black rods and white conical housings anchored to the seabed, in turquoise water.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Image-Courtesy-of-OceanWell-400x267.jpg "Image Courtesy of OceanWell")Image Courtesy of OceanWellEmerging offshore desalination concepts—such as modular deep‑sea systems—illustrate how engineers are pursuing resilience through innovation. By leveraging natural ocean pressure, reducing land use impacts, and limiting ecological disruption, these systems provide redundancy and adaptability in regions facing chronic water scarcity. **Curitiba: A Long‑Term Blueprint for Resilient Urban Growth** Curitiba, Brazil, offers a powerful example of how resilience is built through consistent, long‑range planning. For nearly six decades, the city has followed a master plan that integrates land use, transit, flood management, and environmental preservation as a single system. By using parks and green corridors to manage floodwaters rather than relying solely on concrete channels, Curitiba has reduced flood risk while creating public space and protecting critical infrastructure. This approach reflects the Report Card’s emphasis on planning infrastructure for its full life cycle, accounting for changing climate conditions rather than reacting after failures occur. **Infrastructure That Honors Place in New Zealand** In New Zealand, a proposed pedestrian bridge spanning the Te Awa Kairangi river demonstrates how infrastructure can enhance resilience while honoring environmental and cultural context. ![Aerial view of a metal lattice footbridge crossing a wide river, bathed in warm, vintage-toned light.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Rendering-Courtesy-of-SDW3D-400x267.jpg "Riverlink Aotearoa")Rendering Courtesy of SDW3DThe bridge’s timber construction and nature‑inspired form support floodplain connectivity and multimodal transportation while respecting Māori principles of *kaitiakitanga*, or stewardship. It functions as a civic space that encourages interaction with the river ecosystem while supporting flood resilience and multimodal mobility. **Planning Cities That Can Withstand Tomorrow’s Challenges** Across the United States, engineers are helping communities adapt to climate realities by restoring natural systems that protect infrastructure. Greenways, tree canopies, and floodplain reconnections reduce flood risk, mitigate heat, and improve public health through cost-effective alternatives to expanding conventional infrastructure. These strategies also align with ASCE’s call for forward‑thinking policies and investments that reduce risk and avoid higher costs from future failures. Earth Day is a reminder that infrastructure choices are resilience choices. The 2025 Report Card makes clear that progress is possible—but only if investments are sustained and designed with future conditions in mind. Green infrastructure can help us meet that challenge. By working with natural systems, the profession is helping communities build infrastructure that is sustainable, adaptable, durable, and ready for uncertainties ahead. On this Earth Day, these projects highlight the essential role engineers play in creating infrastructure that protects public health, supports economic vitality, and strengthens resilience—for today and for generations to come. 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Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade-webinar-energy/) **Published:** April 16, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Making%20the%20Grade%20Webinar%20Explores%20Energy%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F04%2Fenergy-webinar-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Making%20the%20Grade%20Webinar%20Explores%20Energy%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Following the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, the discussion shared key findings on the state of U.S. infrastructure which received a C in its latest report. As energy was the central focus of the webinar, the exchange centered as well on the status of energy infrastructure; energy was one of only two categories receiving a lower grade than four years prior coming in at a D+ in the 2025 report. Report authors cite accelerating demand for energy driven in large part by data centers as well as outdated infrastructure as primary reasons for the decreased grade. In turn, discussion was provided on solutions to drive improvements in energy infrastructure which include updated codes and standards for enhanced reliability and designing energy facilities with life cycle costs and addition of transmission grid infrastructure for improved efficiency. Panelists share various perspectives bringing clarity to the status of energy sector, issues shaping the sector, and outlook on future needs and development. On supply and demand, both areas are experiencing major attention with investment reaching unprecedented levels bringing in a mix of generation sources to meet the exceedingly high needs in energy use with an upward trajectory. Various degrees of risk were also driven by impacts from extreme weather, ability of gas and other sources to be used consistently, and onboarding of data centers driving unparalleled energy demand. Utility-level issues were also highlighted illustrating both challenges and opportunities in sustaining energy amid environmental factors, sector expansion, and maintenance. Featured speakers for the presentation: - Howard Gugel, Senior VP, Regulatory Oversight, North American Electric Reliability Corporation - Bill Pfister, Senior Director, Business Analytics & Finance, Edison Electric Institute - Jim Lehan, Manager, Transmission/Civil Engineering, Nevada Energy - Otto Lynch, Vice President, Head of Power Line Systems, Bentley Systems/Power Line Systems The webinar recording is available [here](https://youtu.be/ruLBi1NQUxk?si=UcYl2vvxTIG7aTRM). Presentation slides can be found [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/energy-webinar-slides.pdf). A special thank you to our sponsor for the event, Power Line Systems/Bentley Systems! 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Making%20the%20Grade%20Webinar%20Explores%20Energy%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Webinars & Events **Tags:** #energyinfrastructure, energy, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, infrastructure report card --- ### [Inside the White House’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/inside-the-white-houses-fiscal-year-2027-budget-proposal/) **Published:** April 9, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Inside%20the%20White%20House%E2%80%99s%20Fiscal%20Year%202027%20Budget%20Proposal&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Earlier this month, the White House released its proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2027, outlining the administration’s priorities for federal spending and setting the stage for what is likely to be another contentious appropriations process on Capitol Hill. While the president’s budget is not law and is rarely enacted as proposed congressional appropriations, it serves as a starting point for debate in Congress and offers important signals about the administration’s policy direction. Across transportation, science, water infrastructure, and environmental programs, the FY 2027 proposal reflects a clear shift away from broad-based federal investment and toward narrower, priority-driven funding—combined with significant reductions in many long-standing programs. Below is a high-level summary of key provisions relevant to ASCE and its members. **Transportation Programs** The budget requests **$114.1 billion in total budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation (DOT)**, a slight increase over FY 2026 enacted levels. Discretionary funding would also rise modestly to **$26.8 billion**, signaling overall stability in the DOT’s budget, but making notable reallocations across several modes. For highways, the administration proposes **$66.2 billion for the Federal Highway Administration**, while eliminating unobligated balances from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program and the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program. It is estimated that canceling these balances would save approximately **$4.2 billion**. The White House’s proposal would maintain funding for core programs such as **INFRA grants ($770 million)** and the **Bridge Formula Program ($713.7 million)**. Aviation funding trends in the opposite direction in FY 2027. The budget requests **$22.4 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)**a notable reduction from FY 2026 enacted levels. While the FAA’s Facilities and Equipment account would remain steady at $4 billion, including **$1.5 billion for modernization of air traffic control**, other accounts would absorb cuts. Transit and rail see steeper declines. The proposal requests **$16.3 billion for the Federal Transit Administration**, down sharply from the enacted level in FY 2026, and just **$2.8 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration**, compared with over $15 billion enacted in the prior year. One area of expansion is maritime transportation. The budget proposes **$2.6 billion for the Maritime Administration**, up from $1.5 billion in FY 2026, and includes a proposal to establish a new Maritime Security Trust Fund to support shipyards, marine highways, and workforce development—though no dedicated revenue source is specified. **Science and Research** For the second consecutive year, the Administration proposes substantial cuts to major federal science agencies, closely mirroring FY 2026 requests that Congress ultimately rejected. The **National Science Foundation (NSF)** would see its budget reduced by **55 percent**, from roughly $9 billion to $4 billion. Within that reduced total, funding would be concentrated on two administration priorities: **artificial intelligence ($655 million)** and **quantum computing ($231 million)**. While these investments are sizable relative to the reduced topline, they come at the expense of NSF’s broader portfolio of basic research and support for academic institutions nationwide. The **National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)** would experience a nearly **$1 billion reduction**, with the Administration citing concerns about climate-related research and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The cuts would significantly affect NIST’s resilience, standards, and post-disaster research. The proposal also cuts **$1.6 billion from NOAA**, including the elimination of the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research, primarily by targeting climate and environmental research programs. Similarly, **NASA’s overall budget would decline by 23 percent**, with science funding cut roughly in half, despite continued support for human spaceflight programs. Taken together, these reductions would reshape the federal research enterprise, prioritize a small number of technologies while scaling back research that supports infrastructure innovation, resilience, and long-term economic growth. **Water Infrastructure and Flood Risk** Perhaps the most dramatic reductions appear in water and environmental programs. The budget proposes a **90 percent cut to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs**, reducing funding by nearly **$2.5 billion**. This is in line with the administration’s position that water infrastructure financing should primarily be a state responsibility. The budget would reduce funding for the **Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)** program by **$63 million**, an 87 percent cut, despite its role in financing large-scale water and wastewater projects. The budget would also reduce funding for the **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers by $3.8 billion**. **Looking Ahead** It is important to remember that Congress ultimately controls federal spending, and many of these proposals are expected to face strong bipartisan scrutiny, particularly cuts to water infrastructure, transit, and applied research. Still, the FY 2027 budget provides a clear articulation of the Administration’s priorities and sets the stage for negotiations in the coming months. ASCE will continue to engage with Congress and the administration to advocate for sustained, robust federal investment in infrastructure, research, and resilience. Members can expect ongoing updates as the appropriations process advances and opportunities arise to reinforce the value of engineering-driven solutions at the federal level. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Investment%20Forum%3A%20Key%20Insights%20on%20P3s%2C%20Financing%20Tools%2C%20and%20Energy%20Resilience&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F01%2Finfrastructure-solutions-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Investment%20Forum%3A%20Key%20Insights%20on%20P3s%2C%20Financing%20Tools%2C%20and%20Energy%20Resilience "Share on 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engineers to engage on the latest policies, tools, and resources in capital delivery. The event, hosted at [Meridiam](https://www.meridiam.com/) North America’s headquarters, offered insight and engagement on modern approaches to resource deployment for transportation, energy, and other critical networks. To kick-off the forum, ASCE’s [president-elect Carol Haddock](https://www.asce.org/about-asce/leadership/carol-haddock) offered opening remarks stating the need for further partnerships and collaboration on resources advancing infrastructure development. ## Public-Private Partnerships ![Panel discussion in a modern conference room with three speakers and an audience; screen behind shows ASCE Infrastructure Solutions logo.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/investment-forum-4-400x225.jpg "investment-forum-4") For the opening session, Meridiam’s Nicolas Rubio and Maryland DOT’s Martha Gross joined with Maria Lehman, ASCE’s Interim Executive Director, to discuss how public-private partnerships are improving project efficiencies and performance. Specific focus of the talk was on [Maryland’s Purple Line](https://www.purplelinemd.com/) project supported by both Meridiam and Maryland DOT with comments shared on the need for the public sector to remain committed throughout planning, procurement, and operation. Additionally, panelists stressed the importance of stakeholders to understand how P3s operate ahead of initiating projects. ## Asset Management and Life Cycle Costs ![Panel discussion in a marble-walled room with five men in suits; a speaker in a blue suit speaks into a microphone beside a large ASCE Infrastructure Solutions screen.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/investment-forum-5-400x225.jpg "investment-forum-5")WithersRavenel’s Keith Pugh joined with David Agnew (Macquarie), Thomas Mulvihill (KeyBanc), and Chris Dejeanus (Brightly Software) to discuss infrastructure maintenance and output over its life cycle. The exchange emphasized the consequences of deferred maintenance and as many jurisdictions are limited in determining infrastructure owned, communities are hindered in planning, budgeting, and risk management. Panelists recommended including lost-term costs in asset planning and adapting the latest technologies for better maintenance. P3s were also suggested as a way to better manage infrastructure costs over an expected life cycle. ## State and Local Financing Tools ![Panel of four professionals seated with microphones during a discussion, ASCE Infrastructure Solutions logo on screen behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/investment-forum-400x225.jpg "investment-forum")Moderator Nate Macek (HDR) provided perspective with panelists Justin Stone (Deloitte), Lisa Eisenberg (Ohio Treasurer), and Dr. Quinbing Cui (University of Maryland Build America Center) on opportunities and risks in financing for states and localities. Participants provided an overview of financing, how it interacts with funding, and what can be expected in accessing private capital for infrastructure. Discussion also centered on understanding available resources from the federal government and tools and resources available to jurisdictions. Panelists suggested that stakeholders bring a greater understanding of financing into the project planning at the early stages and build capacity for jurisdictions to accommodate P3s. ## Investing in Energy Resilience ![Panel discussion with four speakers seated on stools in a modern office; a man on the right speaks into a microphone.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/investment-forum-2-400x225.jpg "investment-forum-2")With a focus on reliable and sustainable energy, panelists David Terry (NASEO), Sharon Midgley (Constellation Energy), Ross Fowler (Bank of America) shared perspectives on improving resiliency. With support from moderator Terry Smith (Smith’s Research and Gradings), the session assessed current and ongoing issues across generation, transmission, and distribution. Increased pressures including load growth – such as data centers – as well as retiring generation sources and slow permitting have hindered energy suppliers and utilities ability to address expansion and maintenance needs. In response, panelists recommend permitting reforms both state- and federal-level, improved consistency and communication on policy goals, and grid modernization involving automated load management (short-term) and better interconnection rules. Recording of the event is available [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ1c1KZJG34). The Investment Forum is the first of three events providing more in-depth exploration of recommendations in the [2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). The next forum is scheduled for May 6 featuring innovations in infrastructure. 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infrastructure report card --- ### [ASCE Reflects on One-Year Anniversary of 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-infrastructure-report-card-one-year-later/) **Published:** March 25, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Reflects%20on%20One-Year%20Anniversary%20of%202025%20Report%20Card%20for%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## One Year Since the 2025 Infrastructure Report Card ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2025-report-card-release-267x400.jpg "2025-report-card-release")The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) this week celebrates one year since the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The report – widely recognized as the most cited infrastructure report in the nation – was introduced on March 25, 2025 at ASCE’s [Solutions Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-release-event/#1741019752689-bf39fe89-921d), featuring category-by-category panel discussions with industry leaders and elected officials, including Congressman Sam Graves (R-MO), Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Congressman Rick Larsen (D-WA). ASCE’s assessment advances the key issues, challenges, and opportunities in infrastructure development. ## National Infrastructure Grades Show Measured Progress The 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure assessed 18 categories, covering broadband as a new category. Overall, the country has seen progress, with the national grade improving from a ‘C-’ to a ‘C’ – the highest cumulative grade ever recorded since the quadrennial Report Card series began in 1998. Nearly half of the 18 categories received higher grades than four years previous – marking real momentum, largely from recent investments. ## Impacts of Federal Investment and the IIJA ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/2025-release-event-2-400x267.jpg "2025-release-event-2") Federal funding is making a difference: increased investment (particularly from the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, or IIJA) has helped lift historically low-performing sectors, and for the first time since 1998, no category received a ‘D-’. However, persistent weaknesses remain. Despite improvements, nine categories are still in the ‘D’ range, with stormwater and transit at the bottom, highlighting ongoing infrastructure deficiencies. Uneven performance is evident across the 18 categories: grades range from a ‘B’ in ports to ‘D’ in stormwater and transit; meanwhile, energy and rail declined due to concerns about capacity, safety, and future demand. Broadband debuted at a ‘C+.’ ## What Infrastructure Deficiencies Cost American Households These grades have real impacts on Americans. ASCE’s [Bridging the Gap](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) economic study found that faulty infrastructure – potholes damaging our vehicles, traffic delays leading to lost productivity and increased costs for products, aging water lines leading to spiking water rates, etc. – costs each American household $2,700 per year – this is down from $3,300 per year before the IIJA was passed. However, if we maintained IIJA funding beyond its current expiration date of 2026 and accepted these funding levels as the new baseline for infrastructure investment, faulty infrastructure would only cost each American household $2,000 per year. ![Infographic showing 2025 U.S. infrastructure report card with Overall GPA and category grades (e.g., D+, C, B-, etc.).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/report-card-category-grades-328x400.png "report-card-category-grades")The Report Card highlighted three major systemic challenges: - **Need for sustained funding:** Recent gains were largely driven by an influx of federal investments, and continued improvement will depend on reliable long-term investment to address backlogs and meet growing demand. - **Aging assets and climate vulnerability:** Communities are increasingly exposed to extreme weather, underscoring the need for resilient infrastructure. - **Data gaps hinder decision-making:** Many sectors lack reliable data, limiting effective planning, asset management, and targeted investment. The U.S. is seeing early returns from increased infrastructure investment, but significant gaps remain—requiring sustained funding, better data, and a stronger focus on resilience to maintain progress. ## State Infrastructure Grades Released Since March 2025 ![Six professionals in business attire pose in a conference room beside a flip-chart poster on an easel, with U.S. flags in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/maryland-release-400x185.png "maryland-release")Following the release of the Report Card, ASCE has continued issuing state infrastructure report cards highlighting performance across the country. Since March 2025, ASCE has released 11 state report cards—six saw grade increases, three remained unchanged, and one marked its first modern report card. ![Nine professionals in business attire posing for a group photo in a formal room with a U.S. flag in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/louisiana-release.png "louisiana-release") - [Utah](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/utah/) (C+, same as prior report card) - [Ohio](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/ohio) (C, up from C- in prior report card) - [Nevada](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/nevada) (C+, up from C in prior report card) - [Colorado](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/colorad) (C-, same as prior report card) - [Idaho](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/idaho) (C, up from C- in prior report card) - [Maryland](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/maryland) (C, same as prior report card) - [Louisiana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/louisiana) (C-, up from D+ in prior report card) - [California](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california) (C-, same as prior report card) - [Florida](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/florida) (C+, up from C in prior report card) - [West Virginia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/west-virginia) (D+, up from D in prior report card) - [North Carolina](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/north-carolina) (C-, first modern report card) ## The Report Card’s Impact Since its launch, the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure has been mentioned more than 40,000 times in media outlets across the globe, including ABC, NBC, CNN, CBS News, FOX Business, Bloomberg, The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and MorningBrew. The report shapes the media’s understanding of our infrastructure needs and provides national context when incidents or stories occur that relate to our built environment. ASCE members contributed to more than 40 interviews during the week of launch and have done dozens more to break down the report with national, international, and local outlets since the report was released. ## ASCE Hosts Webinar Series Exploring Solutions With a focus on implementing on-the-ground strategies, ASCE has elevated infrastructure solutions through its *Making the Grade* webinar series. Webinars highlight each category of infrastructure with emphasis on how key criteria such as funding and resilience are being met through project design and implementation. In recent months, ASCE has brought together engineers and infrastructure professionals to explore drinking water & wastewater, aviation, ports & inland waterways, and stormwater. Webinars across additional infrastructure categories are planned this year. ## What Comes Next for U.S. Infrastructure Policy Moving forward, maintaining focus on infrastructure is as important as ever. With surface transportation reauthorization and the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) reauthorization on the horizon, policymakers have a critical opportunity to build on recent progress and address persistent gaps. Continued investment will be essential to modernize aging systems and meet growing demand. A stronger emphasis on resilience will help communities withstand increasingly frequent and severe weather events. Additionally, advancing innovation will help stretch limited resources further and deliver better outcomes. ## ASCE’s Ongoing Commitment to Infrastructure Advancement ASCE remains committed to elevating infrastructure as a national priority and supporting policies that ensure a more sustainable, resilient, and future-ready system. Strong, resilient infrastructure is essential to our economy, our communities, and our future. ASCE continues to advocate for the policies and investments that make meaningful progress possible — but lasting improvement requires sustained engagement from engineers, policymakers, partners, and the public. ## Here’s how you can help drive the conversation forward: - [**Explore your state’s latest infrastructure grades**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) and see where progress is being made — and where challenges remain. - **Share the 2025 Report Card** with colleagues, stakeholders, and community leaders to elevate infrastructure as a priority at all levels of government. - [**Stay engaged with ASCE advocacy efforts**](https://www.asce.org/advocacy) to support long-term, reliable funding for critical systems across the country. - [**Sign up for updates**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/) to receive new state Report Cards, policy alerts, and opportunities to act. 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infrastructure, water resources development act --- ### [New Guidebook Offers Practical Approaches to Infrastructure Resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/built-to-endure-infrastructure-resilience-sxsw-2026/) **Published:** March 19, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Guidebook%20Offers%20Practical%20Approaches%20to%20Infrastructure%20Resilience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## A New Guidebook to Strengthen Local Infrastructure Resilience A new resource from ASCE promotes strategies to strengthen state and local infrastructure resilience. Co-published by Microsoft, Bentley, and Duke University, the report, *[Built to Endure: A Smart Guide for US Cities to Build Resilient Infrastructure That Lasts](https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/sites/default/files/publications/built-to-endure-smart-guide-us-cities-resilient-infrastructure-that-lasts.pdf)*, offers guidance on facilitating resilience-based approaches improving how infrastructure is protected from extreme weather and natural hazards. With a focus on small and medium-sized communities, the guidebook showcases practical application of digital tools, local governance, and people-first practices through eight case studies. *Built to Endure* also includes a separate section to help communities get started on developing systems that work. ## ![built to endure infrastructure resilience guide for US cities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/built-to-endure-guidebook-400x179.png "built-to-endure-guidebook")Responding to ASCE’s Call for Greater Resiliency Engaging on a key recommendation of ASCE’s *[2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, *Built to Endure* points to the need for increased resiliency in infrastructure design and implementation. The report stresses that while investments increase in infrastructure, climate risks are also growing and stressing the built environment. In turn, resources applied to resilient infrastructure ensures further costs can be avoided from disaster-related damage. ## How Technology and Data Support Smarter Infrastructure Decisions The report calls for renewed attention in resiliency both to project specific as well as system-wide infrastructure. Additionally, data and technology such as geospatial applications and digital twins informs decision-making and improves coordination between stakeholders. These involve five “capability layers” accessible to communities of all sizes. ## Three Core Principles for Building Resilient Systems For practical guidance to communities, *Built to Endure* provides instruction based on three core principles 1. strategic resilience planning 2. policy and regulatory effectiveness and 3. community and decision-maker empowerment. Case studies illustrate the scope and adoption of these actions. ## Real-World Case Studies from Across the U.S. ![Three panelists sit on stage in front of a bright red SXSW banner with cartoon characters; the woman on the right speaks into a handheld microphone.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/asce-sxsw-resilience-panel-400x300.png "asce-sxsw-resilience-panel")Jennifer Goupil Chief Resilience Officer with ASCE speaks to attendees at the South by Southwest Conference on March 17 2026 in Austin TXIn Kentucky for instance, digital twins were effective in modeling flooding scenarios to support mitigation and rebuilding. On policy, Salt Lake City adopted the latest codes and standards in design and construction of its new water reclamation facility; in turn, the facility can operate through earthquakes and other threats. And in North Carolina, the state is supporting a statewide flood resiliency plan to better support zoning, capital improvements, and community engagement. ## Tools and Resources to Help Communities Get Started The report concludes with easily accessible tools, data, and technical assistance to aid municipalities in their respective resiliency work. ## Built to Endure Spotlighted at SXSW 2026 This week, *Built to Endure* was featured at the 2026 South by Southwest Conference in Austin, TX. For the session, “Floods to Fortitude: Infrastructure Resilience,” ASCE’s Chief Resilience Officer Jennifer Goupil was joined by Bentley’s Dan Zucker to showcase the report. *Built to Endure* is available [here](https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/sites/default/files/publications/built-to-endure-smart-guide-us-cities-resilient-infrastructure-that-lasts.pdf). 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In the 2025 report, **Ports received the highest grade** among all categories with a **B**, up from a **B– in 2021**. **Inland Waterways improved to a C–**, rising from a **D+ in the previous report**—a notable advancement reflecting recent federal investments. The discussion featured panelists from **Port Tampa Bay, Port Miami, and the U.S. Waterways Council**, and was **sponsored by Great Lakes Dock and Dredge, LLC**. Panelists provided insights into the current state of these sectors, addressing key criteria such as **capacity, condition, and resilience**. **Key takeaways included:** - **Ports** are demonstrating resilience amid market fluctuations but rising demand and increasing facility costs pose future challenges. - **Inland Waterways** have benefited from federal funding, which has helped reduce long-term needs. However, **operation and maintenance costs remain high**, and **extreme weather continues to strain infrastructure**. The webinar recording is available below. [Click here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/ports-inland-waterways-webinar-slides.pdf) for the presentation slides. 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[Stormwater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) was one of 18 categories graded in the newly released report card receiving a “D.” While recent progress has been made primarily due to significant federal investment, these facilities are experiencing major challenges including aging infrastructure and higher costs associated with both maintaining and expanding systems. Panelists from ASCE and NMSA showcased report card findings through key criteria supporting the grade including funding, resilience, and condition. These experts also offered relevant examples and perspectives to illustrate stormwater’s critical status in the U.S., and what solutions may “raise the grade” and improve outcomes moving forward. The webinar recording is available below. [Click here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/june-2025-stormwater-webinar-slides.pdf) for the presentation slides. 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importance of infrastructure resilience: *Ground-Level Resiliency: How Communities Can Lead*. ![Publication cover: 'Pathways to Resilient Communities' with geometric shapes and storm imagery, ASCE logo at bottom left, September 2025.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pathways-2025-cover-400x353.png "pathways-2025-cover")Pathways to Resilient Communities September 2025The new StoryMap showcases ASCE’s *Pathways to Resilient Communities*, revised and published in September 2025. *Pathways* offers background on the increasing severity of disasters and their impact to persons and property. The toolkit promotes infrastructure resiliency through the adoption of the latest codes and standards from ASCE. Elevating issues from extreme weather and natural hazards as well as solutions, the StoryMap offers an overview of the toolkit by way of visual aids and insight. With assistance from [ESRI](https://www.esri.com/en-us/home), *Ground-Level Resiliency* is the second ARCGIS StoryMap produced by ASCE following release of last year’s *[Infrastructure is Everywhere](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/)* which highlighted the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Ground Level Resiliency is available [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/). The toolkit, *Pathways to Resilient Communities*, can be found [here](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20StoryMap%20Features%20ASCE%E2%80%99s%20Resilience%20Toolkit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News --- ### [WRDA 2018 Signed Into Law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-2018-signed-into-law/) **Published:** October 25, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Trump](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/remarks-president-trump-signing-ceremony-s-3021-americas-water-infrastructure-act-2018/) signed [S. 3021](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3021) (Public Law No: 115-270), the America’s Water Infrastructure Now Act of 2018, or the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018, into law. The Senate passed this bill by a vote of [99-1](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00225), while the House passed it by voice vote. Read [ASCE’s official statement](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=28275) on the House’s September passage of WRDA, as well as the [press release issued by us and our partner organizations](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/WIN-Press-Release-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_Signed-Into-Law_10.23.18.pdf) on the Water Infrastructure Now (WIN) coalition. Throughout 2018, ASCE members and staff advocated for improvement in all 16 infrastructure categories, including water-related categories. Continue reading to find out how ASCE’s advocacy efforts drove the passage of this year’s WRDA reauthorization. **ASCE Advocates for WRDA** The passage of WRDA was a key issue at ASCE’s 2018 [legislative fly-in](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-advocate-for-infrastructure-on-capitol-hill/) in March. The signing of this bill into law would not have been possible without the incredible advocacy of ASCE’s members. Advocacy efforts included– over 1,600 emails to over 320 congressional offices! ASCE’s efforts at the legislative fly-in were quickly followed in May with [ASCE Past-President Kristina Swallow’s testimony](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-president-kristina-swallow-testifies-before-senate-epw-committee/) before the Senate Environment & Public Works Committee about the importance of long-term, strategic investment in America’s water resources systems. **Say “Thank You!”** We are pleased that this legislation includes so many of ASCE’s water infrastructure priorities and that WRDA was passed during its regular biennial cycle – this is the third WRDA bill since 2014. We [urge you to contact your Members of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=472413) and thank them for their vote for this important legislation bill. We also want to sincerely thank ASCE’s Key Contacts for their hard work and support throughout the legislative process. **[About WRDA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-celebrates-the-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act-wrda-of-2018/)** This bill authorizes key programs and projects that are critical to improving our nation’s water-related infrastructure categories. The *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* graded each of these categories as follows: ![Grid of blue rounded tiles with water infrastructure labels: Ports, Inland Waterways, Dams, Levees, Drinking Water, Wastewater; plus pink D badges and an orange clipboard (C+) icon.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/WRDA-Image-002-400x193.png "WRDA Image (002)") The final legislative language contains many of the provisions that ASCE has championed, including three of ASCE members’ “asks” during our March 2018 Legislative Fly-In: - Reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program andthe National Dam Safety Program, both of which are designed to improve dam and levee safety. - Authorization of the [Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WIN-Coalition_Senate-Support-Letter-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_7.12.18.pdf)(SRF WIN) Act, a new financing vehicle for critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects to help restore our nation’s water infrastructure. - Finally, the legislation includes reauthorization of two additional programs ASCE supports – the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) successful Water Infrastructure Financing and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for three-years at increasing funding levels, eventually rising to $1.95 billion in FY2021. 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email")](mailto:?subject=WRDA%202018%20Signed%20Into%20Law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** Dam Safety Program, dams, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, levees, SRF WIN Act, WIFIA, WRDA --- ### [Where do the 2020 Presidential Candidates Stand on Infrastructure?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/where-do-the-2020-presidential-candidates-stand-on-infrastructure/) **Published:** January 24, 2020 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Democratic candidates are running out of time to release tangible policy solutions which focus on the issues that are most critical to the majority of Americans. One of those issues, which 90 percent of Americans support, continues to be the condition of our nation’s infrastructure. So far, four candidates have released their plan for modernizing our nation’s roads, bridges, electric grid, water systems, and more—in order to bring our country’s infrastructure into the 21st Century. Below are the highlights from those candidates that have already released infrastructure plans. We will continue to add any additional infrastructure plans from candidates as they are released. Here’s where the candidates stand: **Joe Biden:** The former vice president’s [$1.3 trillion infrastructure plan](https://www.politico.com/f/?id=0000016e-69e5-daa0-a3ee-79ef04130000) aims to reduce car emissions, create jobs, and ensure the Highway Trust Fund has new revenues to stay solvent. He has proposed spending $50 billion his first year in office on repairing existing roads and bridges, $10 billion over 10 years to build transit in high poverty areas, and a grant program for cities to transition to autonomous vehicles. His plan follows in the footsteps of the infrastructure goals in the Obama administration, especially with his plan to secure and stabilize the Highway Trust Fund. However, the plan only alludes to paying for the $1.3 trillion in investments through tax increases on corporations and the wealthy, but does not outline what those taxes would be. Other components include: - Installing 500,000 public charging outlets for EV nationally; - Pushing the U.S. to net-zero greenhouse emissions by 2050; - Making streets and highway safer, by having the U.S. Department of Transportation work with cities around the country to build complete streets. In addition, the plan calls for federal funding for key safety initiatives, such as the Highway Safety Improvement program, and encourages state and local governments to explore new technologies that can reduce accidents; - Investing in freight infrastructure, including inland waterways, freight corridors, freight rail, transfer facilities, and ports; - Investing in energy infrastructure for a 100% clean energy economy and making buildings more energy efficient; and - Replacing aging pipes and investing in water infrastructure, monitoring for lead and other contaminates while holding polluters accountable, and investing in water technology. **Mike Bloomberg**: Citing the D+’ grade ASCE gave our country’s infrastructure in the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card at the U.S Conference of Mayors’ winter meeting in Washington, D.C., the former mayor proposed [investing more than a trillion dollars in roads, pipes, railways, and telecommunication lines.](https://www.mikebloomberg.com/2020/policies/infrastructure) He promises to fix 240,000 miles of roads and 16,000 bridges in disrepair by 2025, by spending $850 billion over 10 years on capital projects and coming up with a $1 billion annual pothole fund for emergency repairs. He also called for more broadband access and deploying electric vehicle charging infrastructure on highways across the country. Stressing job creation, accessibility, and social equity in his plan, he has also proposed using data from the public and private sector to create a national map of transportation routes, highlighting missing links in road, rail, transit, air, and freight networks. Other components include: - Surface Transportation Block Grant Program increase to $30 billion/year; - Triple annual federal transit investment, $12 billion/year in operating assistance; - Expand broadband to 10 million more Americans by 2025 and to all Americans by 2030; - Raise the budget for the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects program to $5.5 billion annually by 2025; - Provide $100 billion over 10 years in clean drinking water infrastructure; - Provide $175 million over 5 years to the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA); - Raise EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund to $6.6 billion annually; - Use tax incentives to encourage lead removal from homes; - Create a Climate Resilience Finance Corporation with $100 billion annually in Treasury credit authority to reduce carbon pollution and increase resiliency against climate events. **Pete Buttigieg:** Former Mayor, Pete Buttigieg’s [ $1 trillion plan](https://peteforamerica.com/issues/#Infrastructure) pushes investment in roads, utilities, broadband, public transportation, and lead mitigation and stresses that federal funds go to cities, counties, tribes, towns, and states that need resources, with an eye on combating climate change. He has promised to ensure every American has access to clean drinking water, while also lowering water bills nationwide. Additionally, Buttigieg calls for investment in sustainable infrastructure that would enable economic growth in 50 percent of U.S. counties over the next 10 years. The former mayor has also committed to repair massive projects through a $200 billion job training program, as well as six million new construction jobs. A large portion of his plan emphasizes a national Vision Zero policy, stressing the importance of making traffic safety a national priority. Other components include: - $10 billion for training and apprenticeship programs to attract new workers; - $200 billion transition fund for workers to move to clean energy jobs; - $100 billion investment to protect millions from lead in paint and water; - $20 billion for replacing three million lead service lines by 2030; - $30 billion for water/wastewater infrastructure to upgrade and expand systems; - $100 billion to establish a fund to address lead in water, paint and soil; - $50 billion Community Flood Protection for state levees and dams; - $40 billion Sea Level Defense Fund; - $150 billion to improve public transit, including $12 billion to expand to rural communities; - Double Department of Transportation’s BUILD grant program, which funds a wide variety of infrastructure projects, to $2 billion a year; - $6 billion in electric vehicle charging infrastructure; - Fund the repairs of half of bridges/roads in poor condition by 2030; - Making the Highway Trust Fund solvent with $165 billion until 2029 by asking the Department of Transportation to come up with a “new and sustainable” user fee-based system. The plan specifically outlines a transition from a gas tax to a vehicle-miles-traveled model—with discounted rates offered on a sliding scale based on income; and - $80 billion to expand broadband services. **Amy Klobuchar:** The first candidate to come up with an infrastructure plan back in May, the Minnesota senator proposed a [$1 trillion infrastructure investment plan,](https://medium.com/@AmyforAmerica/amys-plan-to-build-america-s-infrastructure-671b08a10751) which includes a $650 billion increase in federal spending on infrastructure programs, including rural broadband, municipal waterworks, energy efficiency retrofits, school construction, seaports and airports, inland waterways, and mass transit – in addition to highways and bridges. Senator Klobuchar has proposed taxing the wealthy to help pay for this robust plan, proposing an increase in the corporate tax rate to 25%. She has also proposed turning our transportation system into a “world-class” system, expanding public transportation, and a creating high-speed rail system. Other components include: - Rebuilding our schools; - Connecting every household to the internet by 2022 by closing the urban-rural divide and creating broadband maps to identify areas that lack access; - Making our economy one that depends on clean energy, which includes legislation that invests in green infrastructure, modernizes our energy infrastructure, and overhaul building codes; - Helping cities and states plan for climate change impacts by building stronger, more resilient infrastructure networks; and - Ensuring clean water by making an investment in sewer and sanitation systems. As a reminder, President Trump proposed a $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan in 2018. His plan discussed roads, bridges, and airports in addition to water, waterways, water resources, energy, rural infrastructure, public lands, veterans’ hospitals, and land revitalization and focused on job creation and training the infrastructure workforce. Last year, Congress and the President proposed a $2 trillion infrastructure plan and came close to an agreement, but politics got in the way and this plan has not come to fruition. Here are some components of his plan: - $200 billion in Federal funds to spur at least $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments with partners at the state, local, tribal, and private level. - New investments will be made in rural America, which has been left behind for too long. - Decision making authority will be returned to State and local governments. - Regulatory barriers that needlessly get in the way of infrastructure projects will be removed. - Permitting for infrastructure projects will be streamlined and shortened. - America’s workforce will be supported and strengthened. Finally, the candidates aren’t the only ones focused on infrastructure in 2020. This week at the U.S. Conference of Mayors annual meeting, the 2019 results of Boston University’s Initiative on Cities [Menino Survey of Mayors](https://www.bu.edu/ioc/2020/01/21/2019-menino-survey-of-mayors/) were announced, revealing that 45% of mayors consider infrastructure the top issue presidential candidates should be discussing. Water, stormwater, and wastewater were ranked as higher priorities this year than in 2015. Water topped the mayors’ list of potential “big ticket” investment items, with mass transit and roads closely behind. The survey also concluded that half of the mayors believe roads are unsafe for cyclists and 66% believe mayors are too dependent on cars. We all know that an infrastructure bill will ultimately mean more time at home with your family – shorter commutes in many cases and more options and choices for getting around – whether that be by car, bus, rail, or bike. It will also mean that the American marketplace will stay competitive. It’s no surprise that the US Chamber of Commerce ranked infrastructure as one of their key federal priorities for this year. Reliable, modern infrastructure systems boost productivity for businesses and reduce costly delays that are often translated on to consumers. ASCE looks forward to seeing action on infrastructure in 2020 and are pleased to see candidates sound the alarm on this issue. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Where%20do%20the%202020%20Presidential%20Candidates%20Stand%20on%20Infrastructure%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Hazardous Waste, Inland Waterways, Levees, National Category, News, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, State, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** #9DollarsADay, #infrastructurenow, 2020election, highway trust fund, infrastructure --- ### [ASCE Gives Thanks for Infrastructure Successes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-gives-thanks-for-infrastructure-successes/) **Published:** November 21, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Gives%20Thanks%20for%20Infrastructure%20Successes&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Gives%20Thanks%20for%20Infrastructure%20Successes "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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This week, millions of people around the country are traveling by way of plane, car, train, or bus to visit their loved ones near and far. Whether you are flying out of a busy airport, traveling over the river and through the woods, or turning on the television to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or the big game, ponder how much you use infrastructure every day. As we think about things for which we are thankful this year, we are thankful for our community of members and all those that work to maintain and modernize infrastructure. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) members, staff, and [Key Contacts](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/) advocated for improvement in all 16 infrastructure categories in 2018. The results of the Society’s advocacy efforts have made us very thankful this holiday season. **Congress & Administration Step Up on Infrastructure** In March, [President Trump](https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/23/politics/trump-spending-bill/index.html) signed into law a [$1.3 trillion omnibus spending package](https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20180319/BILLS-115SAHR1625-RCP115-66.pdf). Since October 1, 2017 Congress passed four short-term Continuing Resolutions to keep the government funded. The omnibus spending funded the government through the end of Fiscal Year 2018, or September 30, 2018 and contained 12 appropriations bills. The final package included increased funding for Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs), the National Park Service to address their deferred maintenance backlog, Amtrak grants, Federal Aviation Administration operations, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and other items. [Read more>>](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-signs-fiscal-year-2018-omnibus-into-law/) In October, President Trump signed into law two infrastructure related bills: the [Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-aviation-administration-faa-reauthorization-moves-forward/) reauthorization bill and the [Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-2018-signed-into-law/). The [FAA reauthorization bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/302) was a five-year, $96.7 billion reauthorization; the longest of the FAA since 1982. The bill included key wins for ASCE including an expansion of the Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) process to cover airport projects that use federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds at any stage, consistent QBS requirements and state licensing laws, and an airport infrastructure study requirement. The [Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA),](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/disaster-recovery-reform-act-headed-to-the-president/) which provides incentives for state and local government to better prepare for disasters was adopted as part of the FAA reauthorization bill. The passage of this is a success for ASCE 8 years in the making. The provisions constituting the DRRA represent a significant improvement in U.S. disaster resilience policy, providing states with access to an enhanced, on-budget pre-disaster mitigation fund for activities that provide a measurable reduction of risk and focusing recovery funds toward resilient building code adoption and enforcement. [Thank your members of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=365593) for supporting the FAA reauthorization bill. [Read more>>](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-aviation-administration-faa-reauthorization-moves-forward/) WRDA was another major success for ASCE. Passed in the Senate by a vote of [99-1](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00225) and in the House by a voice vote, this bill authorizes key programs and projects that are critical to improving our nation’s water-related infrastructure categories including reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program and the National Dam Safety Program, authorizing the [Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WIN-Coalition_Senate-Support-Letter-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_7.12.18.pdf) (SRF WIN) Act, and the reauthorization of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) successful Water Infrastructure Financing and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for three-years at increasing funding levels, eventually rising to $1.95 billion in FY2021. [Thank your members of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=472413) for passing WRDA 2018. [Read more >>](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-2018-signed-into-law/) **2018 Midterm Election Results Boost Infrastructure Investment** Infrastructure investment made its way onto the ballot in several states around the country during the 2018 Midterm Elections, which resulted in infrastructure successes in many states. [Californians](https://vote.sos.ca.gov/returns/ballot-measures) voted to keep their 2017 gas tax increase in place with a “no” vote on Prop 6, [Connecticut](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/11/06/us/elections/results-connecticut-elections.html?mtrref=www.google.com) residents passed an amendment that secured gas tax money in a transportation lockbox, and [Rhode Island](https://www.ri.gov/election/results/2018/general_election/) voters overwhelmingly approved $250 million for public school building improvements as well as $47.3 million for water infrastructure. [Read more >>](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-proves-to-be-priority-on-election-night/) **Infrastructure Report Cards Tell the Story** ASCE sections in [California](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/) and [Kern County](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kerncounty), [Connecticut](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/connecticut/), [Idaho](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/idaho/), [ Illinois](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/illinois/), [Kansas](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kansas/), [Michigan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/michigan/), [Missouri](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/missouri/) and [Pennsylvania](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/pennsylvania/), [Minnesota](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota/) and the [Twin Ports area](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/twinportsarea/) dedicated hours, days, weeks, and months of their time grading local infrastructure systems for the State Infrastructure Report Card releases. Thank you to the hundreds of ASCE volunteers who worked tirelessly to grade and assess their state’s infrastructure. [Find out how your state fared >>](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) **Thank you, Key Contacts!** Finally, ASCE is thankful for its’ active and engaged members. Each day, ASCE’s dedicated team of lobbyists in Washington, D.C. – who are strong voices for infrastructure investment— advocate for the Society’s priority issues on Capitol Hill. However, they rely on the ongoing support and knowledge of ASCE members and our active [Key Contacts](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/). Thanks to our Fly-In attendees, those who continue to contact their members of Congress, op-ed authors, and state legislative day coordinators, all of whom ensure ASCE’s voice is heard loud and clear on Capitol Hill and in state capitals. Your efforts are clearly making a difference in both D.C. and states across the country. We are thankful for our [Advocacy Captains](mailto:govwash@asce.org?subject=Advocacy%20Captains) and members who were involved in our legislative efforts in 2018 and look forward to carrying this momentum on into 2019. Happy Thanksgiving, from ASCE to you! 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Celebrates the Passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-celebrates-the-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act-wrda-of-2018/) **Published:** October 11, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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3021](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3021), the America’s Water Infrastructure Now Act of 2018, or the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018 by a vote of [99-1](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00225). Earlier this year, [ASCE President Kristina Swallow testified](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-president-kristina-swallow-testifies-before-senate-epw-committee/) before the Senate Environment & Public Works Committee about the importance of long-term, strategic investment in America’s water resources systems. A key issue at ASCE’s 2018 Legislative Fly-in, the passage of this bill would not have been possible without the incredible advocacy of ASCE’s members over the course of the past year – over 1,600 emails to over 320 congressional offices. This bill authorizes key programs and projects that are critical to improving our nation’s water-related infrastructure categories. The *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* graded each of these categories as follows: ![Grid of blue rounded tiles with water infrastructure labels: Ports, Inland Waterways, Dams, Levees, Drinking Water, Wastewater; plus pink D badges and an orange clipboard (C+) icon.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/WRDA-Image-002-400x193.png "WRDA Image (002)") The final legislative language contains many of the provisions that ASCE has championed, including three of ASCE members’ “asks” during our March 2018 Legislative Fly-In: reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program and the National Dam Safety Program, two programs designed to improve dam and levee safety, as well as authorization of the [Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WIN-Coalition_Senate-Support-Letter-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_7.12.18.pdf) (SRF WIN) Act, a new financing vehicle for critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects to help restore our nation’s water infrastructure. Finally, the legislation includes reauthorization of two additional programs ASCE supports – the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) successful Water Infrastructure Financing and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water State Revolving Fund for three-years at increasing funding levels, eventually rising to $1.95 billion in FY2021. We are pleased that this legislation includes so many of ASCE’s water infrastructure priorities and that WRDA was passed during its regular biennial cycle – this is the third WRDA bill since 2014. We [urge you to contact your Senators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=472413) and thank them for their vote for this important legislation bill. We expect President Trump to sign S. 3021 into law in the coming days. We also want to sincerely thank our Key Contacts for their hard work and support throughout the legislative process. Read [ASCE’s official statement](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=28275) on the House’s September passage of WRDA. 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WIFIA, WRDA --- ### [Wyoming Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a “C” grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wyoming-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** February 1, 2023 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Wyoming%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Wyoming%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20grade "Share on 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This is the first-ever infrastructure report card for the state, led by co-chairs Dustin Woods, P.E., and Tim Brugger, P.E. The new report card contains five categories of infrastructure receiving an overall grade of a ‘C’, which is a step ahead of the national average of “C-” given in the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). The five categories pertinent to Wyoming include aviation (B-), bridges (C-), drinking water (C), roads (C), and wastewater (D+). While only 3% of interstate highways and 1% of non-interstate highways included in the national highway system have poor pavement conditions, an additional 39% of highways not a part of the national highway system and 68% of county roads in Wyoming are in poor condition. A 2021 study commissioned by the Wyoming Department of Transportation found a $169.2 million funding shortfall for state roads, which does not include additional funding needed for county and city-maintained roads. Wyoming’s consistent drought conditions pose a significant threat to the state’s 772 public water systems. The state currently has enough water to meet current and projected needs but the use of drinking water for agricultural irrigation strains systems during times of high-water use. Wyoming’s corrosive soil conditions cause metal pipes to degrade faster than expected, leading to unplanned replacement projects. Despite these challenges, state leaders have done an admirable job making the best of limited resources. In a state as vast as Wyoming with so few residents, it is difficult to generate enough user fees and revenue to create and maintain large, wide-ranging infrastructure projects. “The first ever Infrastructure Report Card for Wyoming provides a look at the challenges leaders across the state have maintaining crucial infrastructure services in Wyoming’s unique environment,” said Dustin Woods, P.E., co-chair, 2023 Report Card for Wyoming’s Infrastructure. “Roads, bridges, airports, and water systems help drive Wyoming’s economy. When these systems are in good shape everyone benefits.” The report includes calls to action to raise the grades, which include: - **Increase rates and fees, charge for usage, and monitor equity impacts:** Wyoming’s drinking water and wastewater systems currently spend more on essential costs than they collect in revenue from users in all systems. That must change to provide safe water infrastructure. Increased asset management tracking and capital project planning would highlight even more significant needs. To ensure consistent service, Wyoming needs to increase elected boards’ and councils’ awareness and education of utility management, tying infrastructure projects to board/council training. Wyoming needs to increase water rates, install and charge for usage rates, and proactively support residents or businesses for whom higher rates create unreasonable burdens. In addition, Wyoming systems must address water usage and look to future technology and equipment to reduce energy costs and water usage. - **Calculate future needs incorporating harsh environments and topography:** Corrosive soil conditions degrading water pipes make more frequent replacements necessary. Drought conditions persisting decades and high plains with unforgiving remoteness call for more resilient systems. - **Capitalize on recent federal infrastructure investments:** More than most states, Wyoming already understands the importance of federal investments. Infrastructure owners should capitalize on the historic, short-lived opportunities for extra help from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Wyoming%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Drinking Water, National Category, Roads, Wastewater **Tags:** #climate, Environment, transportation --- ### [Sky High Air Travel Traffic](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sky-high-air-travel-traffic/) **Published:** November 25, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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travel rivals that of George Clooney in *[Up in the Air](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dbbXGW5czKo)*, or you are a casual flier who takes a plane for an annual vacation, the [newly-released data](https://www.ustravel.org/news/press-releases/study-thanksgiving-airport-congestion-will-be-year-round-reality-sooner-expected) from the U.S. Travel Association will give you pause. In the new report, *[Thanksgiving in the Skies: A Look at the Future of Air Travel in America](https://www.ustravel.org/sites/default/files/page/2013/08/Thx_report_single_page.pdf)*, the future is bleak for those who dislike battling crowded aiports. Among the most discouraging findings: - This year, 13 of the 30 largest airports experience Thanksgiving-like congestion levels one day during the average week. This total more than doubled from last year. - The 30 largest U.S. airports will experience Thanksgiving-like congestion once a week within the next six years. - **Every day** at Chicago Midway Airport and McCarran International in Las Vegas will feel like you’re traveling for Thanksgiving beginning next year. [Air travel is a major part of the economy](http://www.airportsunited.com/#!airport-economics/cfvg). But with $71.3 billion in airport capital needs and a [D grade for Aviation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-big-wiin-for-water-resources/#p/aviation/overview), this economic engine is at risk. Congress has the opportunity to address these funding needs in the coming year, as it reauthorizes the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) appropriations, currently set to expire on Oct. 1, 2015. Let’s hope that a year from now we are thankful Congress seized the opportunity to modernize our nation’s airports and once again make them the envy of the world—no longer known for reliably long security lines, overcrowded terminals and costly delays. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Sky%20High%20Air%20Travel%20Traffic&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** aviation, FAA Reauthorization, Thanksgiving, travel --- ### [Senate Committee Examines Our Surface Transportation Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-committee-examines-our-surface-transportation-needs/) **Published:** November 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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family and friends last week refreshed and ready to tackle the infrastructure problems and potential solutions facing the country – starting with a committee hearing on Capitol Hill. “[Addressing America’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure Needs](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=F73722BC-05D7-4483-8FB1-EED1AC36454F)”, a hearing held by the [U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/) on November 29, discussed these issues and solutions. Testifying before the committee was Mr. Carlos Braceras, President of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and Executive Director of the Utah Department of Transportation; Mr. Robert Lanham, Vice President of the Associated General Contractors of America; and Mr. James Corless, Executive Director of the Sacramento Area Council of Governments. In his opening statement, Committee [Chairman John Barrasso (R-WY)](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-republican?ID=69FC13BB-0DA1-41B0-B135-49C1F75D5BDA) discussed the need to continue the positive momentum for infrastructure legislation from 2018. For example, he stressed the importance of putting forward a comprehensive surface transportation infrastructure bill with a keen focus on new, sustainable revenue streams to keep the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) solvent and tackle regulatory hurdles. Furthermore, Barrasso expressed interest in continuing the process of using existing formula programs to distribute infrastructure dollars. According to [Ranking Member Tom Carper (D-DE)](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-democratic?ID=21D729CC-94B7-4554-8768-0CC8A2744A89), the most important challenge facing a reauthorization in our surface transportation programs is identifying sustainable sources of revenue to address the growing deficit in the HTF. Lastly, Sen. Roger Wicker (R-MS) stated that he would support an increase in the federal gas tax to fix the HTF if President Trump first publicly endorsed such a proposal. As the main source of funding for the federal government’s investments in highway and transit infrastructure, the HTF is primarily funded through the federal motor fuels tax of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel. The gas tax has not been increased at the federal level since 1993 causing inflation to reduce its purchasing power by 40%. Our nation’s infrastructure received a “D+” on the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, with [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridges-Final.pdf), [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Roads-Final.pdf), and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Transit-Final.pdf) receiving grades of “C+,” “D,” and “D-“respectively. These subpar grades are a result of the long-term underinvestment in surface transportation infrastructure. Despite increased investments by 27 states over the last five years, continued underinvestment will cause our transportation infrastructure to further degrade. In essence, failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, which will impact business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and public safety. As Congress commences debate on reauthorizing the FAST Act, we urge lawmakers to #FixTheTrustFund in order to build a stronger, safer national surface transportation system for the 21st century. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Committee%20Examines%20Our%20Surface%20Transportation%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, bridges, highway trust fund, interstate highway system, Mass Transit, Mass Transit Account, public transit, roads, rural roads, surface transportation --- ### [Rhode Island’s Infrastructure Gets a ‘C-’ in its State’s First Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rhode-islands-infrastructure-gets-a-c-in-its-states-first-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** June 24, 2020 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Rhode%20Island%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20a%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%99%20in%20its%20State%E2%80%99s%20First%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Rhode Island Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released the inaugural [*2020 Report Card for Rhode Island’s Infrastructure* ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/rhode-island/)this morning in a virtual news conference, Speakers included Chad Morrison, P.E., 2020 ASCE Rhode Island President-Elect; Nazifa Sarawat, E.I.T., Chair, 2020 Report Card for Rhode Island’s Infrastructure; Mayor James Diossa of Central Falls, RI; Sarah Ingle, Manager of Long Range Planning, Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA); and Dave Bowen, Engineering Manager, Narragansett Bay Commission. The report gives Rhode Island’s infrastructure a subpar cumulative GPA of “C-.” The report graded bridges (D-), drinking water (C+), energy (C+), ports (C), rails (B-), roads (D) and wastewater (C). ![Slide showing Rhode Island’s Overall State Infrastructure GPA over a city skyline with an orange clipboard icon; presenter Nazifa Sarawat appears in a small video window on the left.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/RI1-400x193.png "RI1") Energy infrastructure has received a large share of attention in the Ocean State since Governor Gina Raimondo’s initiative to move the state to 100% renewable energy by 2030. Rhode Island is home to the country’s first operational offshore wind farm and help from the private sector continues to expand its inventory of wind farms. However, the majority of Rhode Islanders rely on gas lines for heating during the winter and 44% of the state’s gas lines are over 50 years old and require maintenance and upgrades. As outlined in the report, Rhode Island’s renewable energy goals have been aided by the ports and rail sectors. For example, the Port of Providence (ProvPort) and the Port of Davisville supply Deepwater Wind with access to their facilities and terminal areas to assemble and construct wind turbines. Rail infrastructure received the highest grade of a B-, serving as a critical link to Rhode island’s ports and ultimately, its offshore wind farm. In recent years, Rhode Island has seen high speed rail, extended commuter service and revitalization of historic freight lines. The state’s rail infrastructure is well positioned to handle increased ridership demand. Rhode Island’s surface transportation systems are in dire need of help. Bridges and roads received the lowest grades in the report, of a ‘D-’ and ‘D,’ respectively. Rhode Island has the highest percentage of structurally deficient (SD) bridges in the country, with 22% of its 779 bridges earning the SD classification in 2019. 117 of Rhode Island’s bridges have a posted load restriction. Rhode Island’s share of rural roads in poor condition is ranked as the highest in the nation. Chronic underinvestment in both bridges and roads—coupled with the wear and tear of de-icing agents used to make surface transportation safe for travel during Rhode Island’s harsh winters—has led to an accelerated decline in the quality of these networks. To combat underinvestment, state legislature passed RhodeWorks, a funding and prioritization plan to fix more than 150 SD bridges. The program has also invested $81.26 million in paving 100 miles of roadway since its implementation. Climate variability and sea level rise are major concerns in the state, which hosts 400 miles of coastline and aging infrastructure systems. Sea level in the Ocean State is expected to rise by 10 feet by 2100, which threatens all infrastructure sectors. According to the “Rhode Island Statewide Climate Resilience Action Strategy,” a one percent storm surge could flood 337 miles of public roads and impact 163 bridges. Adding a seven-foot rise in sea level would impact 573 miles of Rhode Island’s roads and 90 bridges. These concerns carry over to the drinking water and wastewater sectors, which carry the oldest systems of all sectors. Rhode Island’s wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), serving 73% of the state’s residents, average 69 years old. The average pipe age is 100 years old in Providence, Pawtucket and Central Falls, which is double their 50-year life cycle. Older WWTPs are particularly susceptible to increasingly severe storms, which cause combined sewer overflows (CSOs), and endanger the local water supply. While the state’s drinking water (C+) and wastewater (C) infrastructure also require attention, both sectors have kept up with maintenance over the years. Providence Water, the largest treatment facility in New England, is nearly 100 years old. However, the utility has invested $460 million into capital improvements and replacements since 1996, covering 86 miles of pipelines. ![Cover image for Rhode Island's Infrastructure 2020 report featuring Providence skyline with a water reflection and a lime-green patterned border; title text reads 'Report Card for Rhode Island's Infrastructure 2020'](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Rhode-Island-Cover-e1593009799352-369x400.jpg "Rhode-Island-Cover-e1593009799352")The report also includes recommendations to raise the grades, such as: - Improve multi-modal freight and landslide connections to ports to strengthen the entire freight system and reduce congestion that is costly to industries, local governments and the state’s economy when moving goods. - Increase in-state capacity for electricity generation to improve supply, reduce costs, ease regional market effects and recoup expenses by supporting renewable power generation with financial incentives, regulations that promote growth and industrial/logistics resources. - Continue to support the RhodeWorks plan and its emphasis on reaching a state of good repair for bridges, and identify additional reliable federal and state funding sources - Continue to develop infrastructure resiliency plans that address natural disasters and man-made extreme events. Incorporate the impacts of climate variations (sea level rise, extreme storm events) into the design, operation, maintenance and expansion of all types of infrastructure to improve community resilience. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. A full copy of the *Report Card for Rhode Island’s Infrastructure* is available at [ https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/rhode-island/.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/mississippi/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Rhode%20Island%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20a%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%99%20in%20its%20State%E2%80%99s%20First%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, Rhode Island **Tags:** bridges, Drinking Water, energy, infrastructure report card, ports, railroads, roads, wastewater --- ### [Report Examines Mileage-Based User Fee Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-examines-mileage-based-user-fee-future/) **Published:** April 26, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Report%20Examines%20Mileage-Based%20User%20Fee%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, the [Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF)](https://itif.org/) released a report entitled, “[A Policymaker’s Guide to Road User Charges](https://itif.org/publications/2019/04/22/policymakers-guide-road-user-charges?mc_cid=44a7338466&mc_eid=7929cffa5b).” The report calls on Congress to develop and pass legislation directing the U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) to establish a national Mileage-Based User Fee system (MBUF) , or a “Road User Charge” (RUC). The RUC would be introduced through a transition period and utilize Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. The system would be mandatory for both passenger vehicles and commercial trucks in states that choose to opt into the program. According to this report, the RUC would become the new revenue mechanism for the Federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) The full report addresses passenger privacy, rural driver impacts, environmental impacts, an implementation period, and administrative costs, among other issues. Specifically, ITIF concludes that an RUC system would: - Provide more privacy-protective measures than tolling systems, given that charges are the only information passed onto governments; - Offer relief to rural and low-income drivers and households in communities that don’t have a large presence of fuel-efficient vehicles; - Reduce carbon emissions due to a potential decrease in driving mileage; - Include a transition period of at least three to five years to allow automakers to develop a standard for the RUC technology; and - Utilize current and developing vehicle technology to reduce administrative costs. Our nation’s infrastructure received an overall grade of “D+” in the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, with [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridges-Final.pdf), [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Roads-Final.pdf), and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Transit-Final.pdf) receiving grades of “C+,” “D,” and “D-” respectively. These subpar grades are a result of long-term underinvestment in surface transportation infrastructure. Despite increased investments by 27 states over the last six years, continued underinvestment will cause our transportation infrastructure to further degrade. We must fix the HTF to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure. Proper investment will not only improve our nation’s economy, but will also improve business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and public safety. As Congress begins to debate the next surface transportation reauthorization bill, we urge Congress to take these immediate steps to fix the HTF: - Fix the HTF by adding 25 cents to the federal motor fuels tax. The current user fee must be raised and tied to inflation to restore its purchasing power. This idea has been led by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and would provide a much-needed infusion of $394 billion over 10 years and combat the $1.1 trillion investment gap of surface transportation capital needs. - Establish a broad pilot program to better understand how a Mileage-Based User Fee (MBUF) could be implemented. - Introduce a tax on electric vehicles that would account for their presence on our nation’s roads. Ultimately, ASCE asserts that our nation must prioritize the investment needs of our surface transportation infrastructure system, which is critical to our nation’s public safety, national security, and economic competitiveness. Fixing the HTF and introducing other strategic, robust, and sustained investments, must be done quickly if we hope to close the growing funding gap and restore America’s world-class infrastructure. As legislative activity heats up this spring in Congress, ASCE’s government relations team will continue to stay activity engaged and ensure we fix the HTF! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Report%20Examines%20Mileage-Based%20User%20Fee%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, Roads, Transit **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, #HighwayTrustFund, bridges, gas tax, highway trust, roads, transit --- ### [Montana Infrastructure Earns a "C"](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana-infrastructure-earns-a-c/) **Published:** December 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure* at the State Capitol. Montana earned an overall grade of a “C,” meaning the state’s infrastructure systems are generally in mediocre condition. The Report Card graded ten categories: bridges, drinking water, dams, energy, rail, roads, schools, solid waste, stormwater, and wastewater. Rail earned the highest grade in the Report Card with a “B.” Montana’s railways have benefited from recent private and public investments and the rail network across the state is in good condition. In contrast, Montana’s schools received the lowest grade of a “D-.” The average age of a school facility in Montana is 53 years old, and while funding has been set aside for crucial safety repairs, schools still face funding gaps and are struggling to provide students with a safe, healthy, and productive educational environment. The Report Card also took a look at transportation-related categories, including roads, which earned a “C-” and bridges, which earned a “C.” Montana’s roads are among the least crowded in the country, but nearly half are in poor to mediocre condition. 7.3% of Montana’s total bridge deck area is rated as poor/structurally deficient. The state legislature passed a gas tax in 2017 to provide the state with additional funding for maintenance, preservation, and rehabilitation of transportation infrastructure. Projects using this additional revenue are currently underway. The Montana Infrastructure Report Card Committee also offered solutions to address the state’s infrastructure needs. Recommendations included increasing infrastructure investment and exploring innovative funding solutions, particularly finding a mechanism to collect revenue from the many visitors to the state. The Report Card also recommended building resilient infrastructure to prepare for the state’s growing and changing population. The Montana Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) published the 2018 Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure. You can read the full Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure at [infrastructurereportcard.org/Montana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/montana/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Montana%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Montana, News, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, Wastewater **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure investment, Montana, report card, state report card --- ### [Michigan Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a “C-” grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/michigan-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** May 10, 2023 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Michigan%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Monday May 8th, the Michigan Section of ASCE released the *2023 Report Card for Michigan’s Infrastructure* in Lansing, MI. The report included 14 infrastructure categories, which received a cumulative grade of “C-“, the same as the [national infrastructure report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org). This grade is an upgrade for Michigan, which received a “D+” in the 2018 report and is a testament to the additional funding measures and added prioritization the state’s built environment has been given by policymakers and industry leaders over the past five years. However, the report notes that Michigan’s systems still have a long way to go and long-term funding mechanisms need to be established to ensure the state’s roads, bridges, water systems, energy grid and more are at a satisfactory condition. Civil engineers graded Michigan’s aviation (C), bridges (D+), dams (C-), drinking water (D+), energy (D), inland waterways (C), public parks (C), rail (C), roads (D), schools (C-), solid waste (C+), stormwater (D), transit (C-), and wastewater (C). The report also included a chapter on the state’s broadband infrastructure, which did not receive a grade due to insufficient available data. The release event was held inside the Christman Building across from the Michigan statehouse and included several leaders from across the state, including Brad Wieferich, Director, Michigan Department of Transportation; Lance Binoniemi, Vice President of Government Affairs, Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association; Amy O’Leary, Executive Director, Southeast Michigan Council of Governments; and ASCE Michigan Section leadership. “Michigan residents, tourists, and businesses alike have all felt the impacts of worn-down roads, bridges, and the occasional water and energy services disruptions,” said Rep. Haley Stevens (MI11). “We depend on these systems working properly to keep our economy moving forward and our communities safe, along with protecting the natural environment that draws so many people to the Great Lakes state each year. Under Governor Whitmer, we have begun to dig our state’s infrastructure out of a deep hole, resulting in higher grades, and I remain confident that we will embrace future opportunities to make Michigan more efficient and resilient. I am committed to working across all levels of government to deliver the A+ that Michiganders deserve.” The report card found that Michigan policymakers have driven progress in the last five years to improve infrastructure assets by implementing short-term funding solutions to address decades of deferred maintenance, including surface transportation funding through the Rebuilding Michigan plan and improved water infrastructure systems through the MI Clean Water Plan. The state will also benefit from recent federal infrastructure investments included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). However, Michigan generally lacks sufficient long-term funding mechanisms to ensure all infrastructure sectors reach and sustain a state of good repair. Michigan took action to address road maintenance with a funding package starting in 2017 which helped state and local roads improve conditions, but only moderately. Of Michigan’s 120,000 miles of paved federal-aid-eligible roads, 25% are in good condition, up from 20% in 2017 but still far less than the national average of 42%. Approximately 11% of Michigan bridges are in poor condition, which is the same percentage reflected in the 2018 report and well above the national average of 7%. Good condition bridges dropped to 35% of the total in 2022 from 40% in 2018, meaning the percentage of bridges in fair condition rose from 50% in 2018 to 54% in 2022. The state faces potential problems with drinking water systems that are more than 50 years old and some approaching 100 years old, yet less than 1% of pipes are being replaced annually. The state also faces a massive funding gap due to decades of deferred maintenance. Michigan’s water investments are falling short by anywhere from $410 million to $710 million per year. These estimates do not include addressing emerging contaminants such as PFAS, nor lead service line replacements. Since 2013, Michigan has been making great strides in asset management through their Stormwater, Asset Management & Wastewater (SAW) grant funding and creation of the Michigan Water Asset Management Council (WAMC). However, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) estimates $2.71 billion is needed for Michigan’s aging wastewater treatment systems. You can read the complete report card at <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/michigan> [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Michigan%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F10%2FSquare-Social-Graphic-2023-MI-IRC.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Michigan%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20grade "Share on 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infrastructure, infrastructure bill, resilience, sewage, surface transportation, sustainability --- ### [ASCE Gives California Infrastructure a C-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-gives-california-infrastructure-a-c/) **Published:** May 9, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Gives%20California%20Infrastructure%20a%20C-&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F05%2Fca-rc-300x400.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Gives%20California%20Infrastructure%20a%20C- "Share on 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infrastructure investment gap, but much work remains to prepare the infrastructure to support the state’s economy and preserve Californians quality of life. In 2017, California lawmakers approved a major transportation package that provides an additional $5.4 billion to roads, bridges, and transit systems throughout the state. This funding has been critical to improving the condition of these systems and addressing challenges, like congestion and the need to retrofit bridges to meet seismic standards. However, some challenges remain. Much of California’s infrastructure needs significant investments to reverse the decades of underinvestment and help the built systems withstand climate change. Ports, for example, are presently in satisfactory condition, but require approximately $10.7 billion over the next 10 years to protect themselves against the impacts of earthquakes and sea-level rise. Dams and levees are increasingly providing protection against extreme precipitation whiplash, but many of these structures are aging and past their design lives. In addition to publishing the *2019 Report Card for California’s Infrastructure*, ASCE members made recommendations on how to improve the grades: - Region 9 encourages all levels of government, business, labor, and nonprofits to collaborate to address challenges associated with California’s aging infrastructure. - Smart plans must be developed to better identify funding needs. These include asset management plans, complete with condition assessments and funding plans. - While the California legislature took first steps to increase transportation investment in 2017, more must be done, including encouraging localities to raise their own revenue for their infrastructure networks. - Finally, ASCE’s civil engineers recommend to their fellow citizens that they be informed, be vocal, and learn more about infrastructure needs. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about ASCE California’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Gives%20California%20Infrastructure%20a%20C-&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** California, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, ASCE, California, report card, state report cards --- ### [FAA Reauthorization Waiting on the House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-reauthorization-waiting-on-the-house/) **Published:** May 4, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Reauthorizing legislation has been in the works for months, but has a long way to go before it lands on the President’s desk. The FAA’s current authorization was set to expire March 31, but Congress bought itself some extra time by passing a bill in March to extend the authorization to July 15. Last month the U.S. Senate passed a $33 billion bill ([HR 636](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/636)) to reauthorize the FAA until September 30, 2017, but the U.S. House of Representatives has not taken action on it yet. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed Chairman Bill Shuster’s (R-PA) own FAA reauthorization bill ([HR 4441](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/4441?q=%7b%22search%22%3A%5b%22%22hr4441%22%22%5d%7d&resultIndex=1)) in February, but the bill did not progress on the House floor. That bill contained Rep. Shuster’s controversial proposal to split off the FAA’s air traffic control operations into a private, nonprofit organization. Rep. Shuster has [said](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/278229-air-traffic-control-plan-faces-tough-fight-ahead) he is still interested in pursuing air traffic control privatization, but will need a few more weeks to decide how to proceed. HR 636 increases funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), the federal grant program that is one of the principle sources of funding for airport capital improvements, from $3.35 billion to $3.75 billion for FY17. The bill does not modify the $4.50 cap on Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs). PFCs are fees airports can collect from every departing passenger and use to fund federally approved capital improvement projects. The current cap has not been changed since 2001 and infrastructure advocates, including ASCE, have called for the cap to be increased or removed so that airports can invest in their own facilities. ASCE’s [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-big-wiin-for-water-resources/#p/aviation/overview) gave the nation’s aviation system a D. America’s aviation infrastructure has not kept pace with its residents’ appetite for air travel. Commercial enplanements were about 33 million higher in number in 2011 than in 2000. Outdated and insufficient aviation infrastructure costs Americans households and businesses money. The FAA estimates that the national cost of airport congestion and delays was almost $22 billion in 2012. In order to ensure American travelers and goods can continue to move around the country quickly and efficiently, the U.S. needs to invest far more in its aviation infrastructure. The latest Airports Council International–North America (ACI-NA) [Capital Needs Survey](http://www.aci-na.org/sites/default/files/2014-15_capital_needs_survey_report_final.pdf) estimates airports will have $75.7 billion in capital needs between 2015 and 2019. HR 636’s provisions to increase funding for the AIP would help airports make some of the investments they need. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=North%20Carolina%E2%80%99s%202026%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20Grades%2C%20Challenges%20%26%20Path%20Forward&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## North Carolina Earns a C- On Wednesday, January 21, the North Carolina Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released its [*2026 Report Card for North Carolina’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/north-carolina/) at the North Carolina State University Club in Raleigh. This release represents the state’s first modern report card and gave the state’s infrastructure a ‘C-’ across seven categories. The North Carolina Infrastructure Report Card highlighted several areas where the state outperforms the national average, though the overall grade is lower than the national average grade of ‘C’.![Three men in business suits pose together in a hallway; the man in the center holds a brochure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/nc-release-1-300x400.jpg "nc-release-1") ## What a ‘C-‘ means The grade of ‘C-’ is a mediocre rating, indicating a need for improvement across areas of funding, operations and maintenance, and capacity as the state’s population surges. Recent extreme weather and safety disruptions, including Tropical Storm Helene, underscore the need for resilient, modern infrastructure. ## Categories Where North Carolina Outperforms National Grades Four of the seven categories in the North Carolina Infrastructure Report Card are performing higher than their national counterparts: ### Aviation (C-) [North Carolina’s 72 public airports](https://www.ncdot.gov/divisions/aviation/Pages/default.aspx) form a statewide network linking residents to 188 destinations and generating $88 billion in economic impact—14.4% of the state’s GDP. After a pandemic‑era dip, passenger traffic has surged, rising about 20% from 2021 to 2023 and straining capacity, especially at Raleigh‑Durham. Targeted investments in capacity, maintenance, air traffic control, and critical upgrades will be essential to keep the system safe, efficient, and prepared for future growth. ### Drinking Water (C+) North Carolina’s growing population and frequent natural disasters make reliable, resilient drinking water systems essential—an urgency underscored by the damage from Tropical Storm Helene in 2024. Utilities are also grappling with rising concerns over PFAS and other “forever chemicals,” which pose health risks and require costly, complex treatment. While the state has long benefited from a highly skilled workforce of licensed water‑system operators, many are nearing retirement. To maintain safe, clean drinking water, North Carolina will need sustained investment in infrastructure and a renewed focus on attracting, training, and retaining the next generation of utility professionals. ### Roads (C-) [North Carolina’s 80,000-plus lane miles](https://www.ncdot.gov/divisions/highways/Pages/default.aspx) are essential to mobility and commerce, but the system is increasingly strained by aging assets, rising vehicle miles traveled, and inflation. Nearly two‑thirds of state roads are now rated only “fair,” signaling widespread resurfacing and reconstruction needs within the next decade. At the same time, traditional funding sources, especially the motor fuels tax, are weakening as vehicles become more fuel‑efficient and electric vehicle adoption grows. Strengthening the state’s road network will require sustainable funding reforms, greater investment in resilience, and expanded safety initiatives. ### Stormwater (C-) North Carolina’s 101 stormwater utilities serve roughly half the state’s population, yet many face growing challenges as development outpaces funding. Utilities report more than $2.76 billion in unmet capital needs through 2034, with over 80% citing significant gaps. The state has expanded outreach and mapping programs to help residents understand flood risks—an important step as 22% of structures that have flooded since 1996 are prone to repeated flooding. Long‑term, predictable investment will be essential to expand capacity, protect public safety, and strengthen resilience statewide ## Categories Matching National Grades Two of the seven categories received the same grade as their national counterparts: ### Dams (D+) North Carolina has 7,448 dams, including 2,350 that are state‑regulated and essential for water supply, flood control, irrigation, and recreation. Since 2023, more than 83% of the state’s jurisdictional high‑hazard dams have received annual inspections, but only 45% have current Emergency Action Plans—well below the 82% national average. While funding for dam safety has grown and additional resources are expected following recent tropical storm damage, major gaps remain. Overall, the state faces an estimated $5.97 billion backlog for dam maintenance and repairs, nearly $2.83 billion of which is needed for high‑hazard dams alone. ### Wastewater (D+) As North Carolina grows, pressure on wastewater systems is rising. Wake and Mecklenburg counties are planning major expansions and new treatment plants to keep pace with development, while smaller utilities face shrinking customer bases and higher financial strain as populations shift toward larger cities. Many small systems have had to raise sewer rates just to maintain aging infrastructure. The [2022 EPA Clean Watersheds Needs Survey](https://www.epa.gov/cwns/clean-watersheds-needs-survey-cwns-2022-report-and-data) identified roughly $12.6 billion in statewide wastewater and sewer needs. Despite recent funding boosts, a significant shortfall remains, and utilities are increasingly emphasizing higher user rates to meet operational and maintenance demands. ## Category Where North Carolina Lags Behind One category received a lower grade than the national report card ### Bridges (C-) North Carolina manages nearly 13,900 bridges, with conditions in 2024 split between 46% good, 46% fair, and 8% poor—down sharply from 22.8% a decade ago thanks to major investments in replacement, preservation, and maintenance. Funding has grown from $150 million in FY2015 to $482 million in FY2025, yet aging infrastructure remains a challenge, with more than 4,800 bridges over 50 years old and over 6,300 expected by 2035. Future needs are rising fast: bridge funding is projected to reach $961 million by FY2027, leaving a $479 million shortfall and widening gaps in the years ahead. ## Key Recommendations for Improving the Grade ASCE has five recommendations to increase the grade in North Carolina ### Increased Investment Increased investment is needed to meet growing demands driven by population growth and more intense storm events. Targeted funding will help ensure that drinking water and wastewater systems, transportation infrastructure such as roads and bridges, and dams can continue to operate safely and reliably under increasing stress. ### Strengthening Resilience Recent storms, such as Tropical Storm Helene and Hurricanes Matthew and Florence have demonstrated North Carolina’s resilience while highlighting the need for the state to prepare for the next major disaster, including updating emergency action plans for all departments and municipalities. ### Enhancing Safety North Carolina faces significant safety risks, with 1,463 high-hazard dams and rising vehicle fatalities per 100,000 residents over the past decade. Strengthening dam inspection programs and adopting comprehensive roadway safety strategies such as Vision Zero will be essential to reducing risks and improving public safety statewide. ### Increasing Capacity Capacity specifically for aging water-related infrastructure is needed. Many wastewater and stormwater systems are past their design life cycle and are in need of upgrades. Repairing these systems will help to address water quality, flooding, and erosion. ### Leveraging Technology & Innovation Relying on improving technologies such as green infrastructure and artificial intelligence (AI) will help to address challenges of increasing funding and improving infrastructure all while maintaining the standard quality of life. ## What’s Next? ASCE’s North Carolina members now have a valuable advocacy tool to share with local, state, and federal lawmakers. Our North Carolina members are preparing to meet with [state lawmakers](https://www.ncleg.gov/) during this year’s session and federal lawmakers during ASCE’s legislative fly-in in March. 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stormwater, wastewater --- ### [ASCE’s Priorities for the 2026 Water Resources Development Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-2026-wrda-priorities-water-resources/) **Published:** January 15, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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WRDA provides biennial authorization to water resources projects at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that improve the nation’s flood control capabilities, navigation, and resilience against increasingly extreme weather events. It also offers an opportunity to make significant changes to programs and laws that drive U.S. policy on water resources infrastructure such as dams, levees, ports, and inland waterways. This week, ASCE released its [top policy priorities for inclusion in WRDA 2026](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/asce-wrda-priorities-2026.pdf). ## Building on Recent WRDA Legislative Progress Since 2014, Congress has worked in a bipartisan manner to pass WRDA on schedule every two years. This provides USACE with needed predictability to prepare its work schedule, allow new projects to get underway, and implement common sense policy changes. [In 2024, WRDA included several key policy changes](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4367?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22carper+water+resources+resource+development+act%22%7D&s=1&r=2) strongly supported by ASCE. This included reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, ASCE’s top WRDA priority in 2024, as the program’s statutory authority had run out at the end of the previous year. WRDA 2024 also required the incorporation of low-head dams into the National Inventory of Dams, building on progress made in [WRDA 2022](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7776?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+defense+authorization+act%22%7D&s=3&r=1) which authorized the creation of a national inventory of low-head dams. ## Strengthening the National Dam Safety Program ASCE’s priorities for 2026 also aim to build on progress made on dam safety since 2021, progress which resulted in [a grade increase for the nation’s dams from “D” to “D+”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) in the 2025 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* This year, ASCE supports the reauthorization of the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program (HHPD Program), which is set to expire at the end of FY 2026. The HHPD program is one of the few federal programs that provides a funding stream to support dam repair and rehabilitation. HHPD grants are competitive and support repair to those dams which would, in the event of a dam failure, likely result in loss of life. [H.R. 5414, the Dam Assessment and Mitigation Support (DAMS) Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/5414?s=5&r=1), reauthorizes this critical program for five years, and makes changes to federal law to improve access to these grant funds. ASCE supports the inclusion of H.R. 5414 in WRDA 2026. ASCE also supports eliminating low-head dams from the National Dam Safety Program’s State Assistance Grant allocation formula. Currently, this formula is determined by several factors, including total number of dams in a state. WRDA 2024 also added low-head dams to the formula’s criteria, creating challenges for allocation of funds to states, many of which do not yet have the capability to count or properly regulate its low-head dams. Removing the low-head dam criterion, at least until the inventory of low-head dams is allowed to more fully develop, will allow funds to be more fairly allocated to state dam safety programs. ## Improving Levee Safety and Reauthorizing the National Levee Safety Program Much like ASCE’s 2025 grade for the nation’s dams, [levees also received a boost](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) on the 2025 *Report Card* (also “D” to D+”) in large part due to progress made developing the National Levee Safety Program. This included completion of National Levee Safety Guidelines and improvements to USACE’s levee rehabilitation grants. To build on this, ASCE is proposing reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program through 2033. The program was nearly reauthorized in 2024 when the House included it in their own WRDA bill, however, this provision did not make it through conference negotiations and was not included in the final 2024 WRDA agreement. Reauthorizing the program, which is set to expire in 2028, will allow the program to continue its development and assist states in standing up their own levee safety programs and improving safety regulations for the nation’s levees. ## Enhancing Port Competitiveness Through Harbor Maintenance Investments ASCE is also asking Congress to continue to spend down the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) to support maintenance dredging activities. In 2024, WRDA included improvements to the nation’s navigation and trade routes by adjusting the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) cost share formula to reduce the share of funding for inland waterways projects coming from the IWTF to 65% of cost, [a recommendation in ASCE’s 2021 *Report Card*](https://2021.infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Inland-Waterways-2021.pdf). This year, ASCE is supporting improvement of the nation’s ports by urging Congress to spend down the balance of the HMTF to improve channel depth of the nation’s ports through maintenance dredging. This will allow for larger cargo ships to enter U.S. ports, improve trade competition, and generate economic activity. ## Addressing the Growing Backlog of USACE Water Resources Projects Finally, ASCE is urging Congress to take steps to address the growing backlog of USACE water resources projects. The current backlog [has been cited to be at least $100 billion](https://www.congress.gov/crs_external_products/IF/PDF/IF11322/IF11322.8.pdf). Many projects that are being authorized in WRDA have not been able to receive timely appropriations to allow them to get underway. This creates challenges for water resources infrastructure resulting in project delays that can affect project design and increase costs. ASCE is encouraging the relevant Congressional committees- including appropriators- to work together to formulate strategies to address this project backlog before it becomes unsustainable. ## ASCE’s Continued Engagement Throughout the Water Resources Development Act 2026 Process As Congress moves forward with its process for WRDA 2026, ASCE will remain engaged with House and Seante offices as well as committees. ASCE will continue to strongly advocate for its 2026 policy priorities throughout the entire WRDA cycle and looks forward to once again celebrating timely passage of WRDA by the end of this year. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=How%20Modern%20Technology%20and%20AI%20Can%20Improve%20Environmental%20Permitting%20for%20Everyone&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Environmental permitting balances economic development with environmental management. It enables us to build safe roads, modern bridges, and infrastructure, while also protecting our natural resources. However, the pathway for obtaining a permit is fraught with complexities, including: - Backlogs - Complex regulations - Staffing constraints - Inconsistent processes. These issues hinder the development of our nation’s infrastructure, water systems, and housing. Inefficiencies largely come from: - Substantial administrative burdens - Siloed information systems - Redundant data entries - Inconsistent regulatory interpretations. But these can often be resolved through advanced technology like centralized data, AI, and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping to improve customer experience, foster a cohesive regulatory environment, and help stakeholders coordinate more effectively. **Here are a few examples:** ## Centralized Data and Automation Systems that can ingest and process fragmented inputs offer exceptional time savings and accuracy throughout the environmental permitting process. Permitting data, ranging from historical paper documents to satellite images, often requires intensive manual analysis. AI advancements, such as optical character recognition (OCR) that uses machine learning and computer vision to recognize complex text patterns, can streamline the process from application to approval. ## GIS Integration for Spatial Analysis Integrating GIS into environmental permitting processes delivers several important benefits. GIS tools — such as mapping, spatial analysis, and location-based insights — allow agencies to track environmental, health, and pollution sources in real time. By connecting with Internet of Things (IoT) devices, stakeholders are better able to track issues, complaints, and other inspection data for monitoring. This provides transparency, supports better decision-making, and enhances compliance. The result is a more efficient permitting process that helps stakeholders proactively identify problems and respond in real time. ## AI for Improved User Experience and Data Analysis AI-driven insights can transform permitting processes: - **Natural Language Processing (NLP)** can expedite application analysis, document comparisons, and regulatory cross-referencing. - **Machine Learning models** can analyze environmental data, identify trends, and conduct predictive analytics to aid decision-making. - **AI can also automate** workflows, triage tasks, and develop intelligent dashboards for tracking permit status and project performance. ## Summary of Benefits Centralized data systems, along with the integration of AI and GIS, can significantly reduce processing times, improve accuracy, and enhance transparency and accountability. Interactive online portals with real-time tracking, GIS-based visualizations, and AI-generated summaries of technical documents improve visibility and connectivity among stakeholders. Transparent documentation of decision criteria and historical comparison tools further drive accountability. ## Final Thoughts Modernizing environmental permitting processes with AI and advanced technologies is not just a necessity but an opportunity for efficiency, transparency, and accountability. By embracing these innovations, federal, state, and local leaders can streamline decision-making, reduce administrative burdens, and foster sustainable economic and environmental development. As Deloitte continues to build and integrate these technologies, the future of permitting can pave the way for more efficient and effective environmental management. *This blog contains general information only, and Deloitte is not, by means of this blog, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This blog is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor.* *Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this blog.* *As used in this blog, “Deloitte” means Deloitte Transactions and Business Analytics LLP, a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of our legal structure. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting.* *Copyright © 2025 Deloitte Development LLC. 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**Published:** January 8, 2026 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Submits%20Comments%20on%20Proposed%20Waters%20of%20the%20United%20States%20Rule&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2026%2F01%2Fwotus-rule-featured-image-large.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Submits%20Comments%20on%20Proposed%20Waters%20of%20the%20United%20States%20Rule "Share on 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Corps of Engineers (USACE) pertaining to the Trump Administration’s [proposed rule defining “waters of the United States” (WOTUS)](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/11/20/2025-20402/updated-definition-of-waters-of-the-united-states) under the Clean Water Act. The Clean Water Act provides protections from discharges and other environmental hazards into American waterways and waterbodies which are defined as WOTUS by the two agencies. The proposed rule, which was published in the Federal Register on November 20, 2025, marks the fourth rule revising the definition of WOTUS since 2015. ASCE carefully reviewed the proposed rule and submitted comments after consulting with multiple ASCE members with expertise in water infrastructure, water resources, and natural infrastructure. ## Background on WOTUS and Recent Legal Challenges Over the past decade, WOTUS rules put forward by previous administrations have often been challenged in court, resulting in decisions narrowing the scope or in some cases striking down entirely what may be considered WOTUS under the Clean Water Act. In 2021, a federal court struck down the first Trump Administration’s finalized Navigable Waters Protection Rule, which replaced and significantly narrowed the much broader definition finalized in 2015 by the Obama Administration. In 2023, the Supreme Court ruled in [*Sackett v. EPA*](https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/22pdf/21-454_4g15.pdf) that wetlands may only be considered WOTUS if they maintain a constant surface connection to other waters of the United States, narrowing types of wetlands subject to Clean Water Act protections and forcing the Biden Administration to revise its 2023 WOTUS rule. ## Key Changes in the Trump Administration’s Proposed Rule The current Trump Administration’s proposed rule goes beyond the Sackett decision and further narrows the definition of “wetlands” to those waterbodies maintaining a continuous surface connection to relatively permanent water bodies that are continuously flowing year-round or at least during “wet seasons.” Sackett did not address water flows or define terms such as “wet season,” which ASCE noted in its comments can vary from state to state. As a result, the proposed rule would [reduce the number of protected wetlands by as much as 91 percent](https://www.edf.org/media/trump-proposal-will-dismantle-wetlands-protections-increase-flood-risk) according to one estimate. ## ASCE’s Concerns About Wetlands and Flood Risk ASCE expressed concern with this narrower definition, highlighting the importance of natural infrastructure such as wetlands and floodplains and their interconnectedness to the built environment. Wetlands absorb rainwater, helping to preserve floodplains and reducing the risk of flooding. This in turn relieves strain on stormwater infrastructure, dams, and levees, enhancing the resilience of these systems and extending their design life. ASCE noted the proposed rule goes beyond the limitations imposed under *Sackett*, and thereby increases the likelihood of flood risk, degrading water quality, and harming fragile ecosystems. The concerns presented by ASCE reflect [Policy Statement 378- National Wetlands Regulatory Policy](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps378---national-wetlands-regulatory-policy). ## New Exclusions and Potential Interstate Conflicts The proposed rule also included new exclusions from the definition of WOTUS. One such exclusion was that of interstate waters, which cross state borders. ASCE commented that this may create conflicts between states that share a waterbody but have differing regulatory structures governing its protection. Disputes such as this create the need for a federal role in regulating intestate waters, and the exclusion will likely result in disputes and legal challenges. The proposed rule would also explicitly exclude groundwater from the WOTUS definition. While groundwater has never been defined as WOTUS under the Clean Water Act, its exclusion raises questions about how waters that do fall under the WOTUS definition would be affected. ASCE’s comments cite the 2020 Supreme Court decision in [*County of Maui v. Hawaii Wildlife Fund*](https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/19pdf/18-260_jifl.pdf) which found that point source discharges that pass through groundwater into navigable waters are the functional equivalent of a discharge into navigable waters, requiring a federal permit. ASCE urged that EPA and USACE to examine and provide clarification on how the proposed groundwater exclusion will affect waters subject to Clean Water Act protections. ## ASCE’s Next Steps and Ongoing Engagement ASCE will continue to monitor developments with the proposed WOTUS rule in the coming weeks and months. ASCE welcomes further discussion with EPA and USACE on this critical issue. 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congressional lawmakers could not agree on terms for a full year spending deal. On January 5th, hoping to avoid another painful government shutdown, leaders of the Appropriations Committees in both chambers released the conferenced version of their Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment spending bills for fiscal year (FY) 2026. If passed into law, the combined bills would provide more than $183 billion in funding for the covered agencies in FY 2026. Below is a summary of provisions within the respective bills relevant to ASCE and its members. ## Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies The *Fiscal Year 2026 [Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) Appropriations Act](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_cjs_bill_summary_and_highlights.pdf)* provides $78 billion in top-line discretionary funding across all bill priorities. This is a significant increase over the administration’s budget request from last May. Notable funding levels in the bill include $6.2 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which is $1.6 billion above President Trump’s request. More specifically, the bill provides $1.4 billion for the National Weather Service to improve weather prediction capabilities, as well as $10 million to shore up staffing at its forecasting offices. It provides an additional $1.6 billion to maintain and invest in current and future weather and climate satellites. The CJS bill also supports climate research by allocating $224 million for climate research at NOAA, a line item that would have been largely eliminated under the administration’s budget proposal. Pursuant to bill, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) would receive $1.8 billion in funding. This includes $1.25 billion for advanced research in innovative technologies and disciplines such as carbon dioxide removal, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. The bill would also fund the National Science Foundation (NSF) at $8.7 billion, a considerable increase over the administration’s proposal that would have cut its budget by almost 60%. Furthermore, the bill provides $24.4 billion for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) which is $5.6 billion above President Trump’s request, a sum that would have cut NASA Science by 47% and eliminated dozens of operating and planned missions. The bill also provides $143 million for NASA STEM Engagement, as well as $2.15 billion for NASA Earth Science and its climate research. ## Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies The conferenced *Fiscal Year 2026 [Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_ewd_bill_summary_and_highlights.pdf)* would provide $10.4 billion in total funding for the Army Corps of Engineers, which is $1.75 billion above the FY 2025 enacted level and $3.8 billion above the requested level. Notably, the bill allocates $3.5 billion for the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund—a $702 million increase over FY 2025. The bill also includes $8.4 billion in funding—$160 million over FY 2025—for the Office of Science, which will help continue implementation of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. It also preserves $1.3 billion in climate science funding, as well as $3.1 billion for renewable energy and energy efficiency and programs that were targeted for significant cuts in the president’s budget proposal. ## Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies The *Fiscal Year 2026 [Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy26_interior_bill_summary_and_highlights.pdf)* provides $8.8 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a funding level nearly double what the administration requested. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, which provide funding for water and wastewater projects, will be funded by the Treasury at the same levels they were in FY 2025 and receive $2.76 billion. This amount is a 90 percent increase over the funding allocation requested by the administration for FY 2026. ## Next Steps Before January 30 Deadline If signed the above legislation is passed by Congress and signed by President Trump before the expiration of the current continuing resolution on January 30th, lawmakers will still have six more funding bills they must pass before they can finish their appropriations work for FY 2026 and shift focus to FY 2027. 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ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-drinking-water-wastewater-webinar-insights/) **Published:** December 18, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2025%20Drinking%20Water%20%26%20Wastewater%20Webinar%3A%20Key%20Insights%20from%20ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F05%2Fautodesk-blog-graphics-1-featured-image-report-card.png&p%5Btitle%5D=2025%20Drinking%20Water%20%26%20Wastewater%20Webinar%3A%20Key%20Insights%20from%20ASCE "Share on 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Water & Wastewater” to examine critical issues and solutions shaping U.S. water infrastructure. This discussion provided an overview of the [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) and offered expert perspectives on the state of drinking water and wastewater systems nationwide. ### 2025 Infrastructure Report Card Grades Drinking Water and Wastewater are two of the 18 categories the 2025 report card. Their grades are unchanged from 2021, with [Drinking Water receiving a C-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/), while [Wastewater is graded at D+](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/). Despite increased federal investment in recent years, local funding challenges and aging infrastructure continue to hinder progress. Unsustainable financing and deteriorating and aging water pipes and facilities remain major obstacles. ### Innovative Solutions and Case Studies The webinar highlighted promising strategies and technologies: - **Wichita, Kansas:** Addressing infrastructure renewal through strategic investment. - **Northeast Ohio:** Implementing advanced wastewater treatment solutions. - **Artificial Intelligence:** Research into AI-driven water efficiency improvements shows potential for reducing waste and optimizing operations. ### Expert Panelists - [Samir Mathur](https://www.cdmsmith.com/en/experts/samir-mathur), Senior Vice President and Water Reclamation Practice Leader, [CDM Smith](https://www.cdmsmith.com/) - Lita Laven, Manager of Design – Plants, [Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District](https://www.neorsd.org/) - [Sunil Sinha](https://www.webapps.cee.vt.edu/index.php?category=people&pagetype=bio&do=getprofile&user=sinha.html), Professor & Director, [Virginia Tech Sustainable Water Infrastructure Management Institute](https://www.swim.cee.vt.edu/) - Celine Hyer, Senior Vice President, [ARCADIS](https://www.arcadis.com/en-us) ### Watch the Webinar Catch the [full recording](https://youtu.be/13J5mlZz2jc?si=ISM9U5q8bEF1Fbr3) and [presentation slides](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/2025-wastewater-drinking-water-webinar-slides.pdf): ASCE appreciates the support of CDM Smith for their sponsorship of this educational opportunity! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=West%E2%80%AFVirginia%202025%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20ASCE%20Grades%20%26%20Key%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, December 17, the [West Virginia Section](https://sections.asce.org/west-virginia/) of the [American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)](https://asce.org) released its [*2025 Report Card for West Virginia’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/west-virginia/) at the state capitol building in Charleston, giving the state an overall grade of a ‘D+’, an improvement of the ‘D’ it received in their 2020 report card. Reliable, resilient infrastructure is critical for the state’s economy, global competitiveness, and quality of life. West Virginia is the first state to include all 18 chapters aligned with the national report card and also featured research contributions from more than 50 Fairmont State University students. A ‘D+’ means that West Virginia’s infrastructure is facing significant needs, with aging assets, rugged terrain, and inadequate funding, in part driven by weakened user fees due to a falling population. Yet, the state’s infrastructure is trending upward. Three of the five categories that were ![Report Card for West Virginia's infrastructure released by ASCE's West Virginia Section](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/IMG_1622-400x300.jpeg "IMG_1622")ASCE West Virginia Section at the West Virginia State Capitol Building rotundaassessed in the 2020 report card saw improvements, and the overall grade increased, in part thanks to record investments through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). ### Three of the five categories assessed in 2020 saw an improvement Dams (D+), Drinking Water (D+), and Roads (C-) all saw slight increases since the last report card in 2020. However, needs remain significant – for example, the estimated cost to address dam rehabilitation needs exceeds $1 billion, with limited funding currently identified. Many drinking water systems rely on pipes that are more than 50 years old, and some utilities lose up to half of their treated water through leaks. ### Two of the five categories assessed in 2020 received the same grade - **Bridges (D+):** Approximately 19% of the state’s bridges are rated in poor condition, compared to about 7% nationally. While the state’s bridges are safe to drive on, this represents a significant need. The funding gap for bridges alone is estimated at $400 million. - **Wastewater (D)**: Only about 47% of West Virginians are served by regulated sewer systems, leaving many households reliant on failing or aging septic systems. West Virginia ranks first nationally in per-capita wastewater infrastructure needs, with an estimated $3.6 billion still required. ### Thirteen new categories were assessed in the 2025 Report Card - **Aviation (C-)**: West Virginia’s airports support the economy, education, military, and tourism, handling ~250K flight operations and 350K enplanements in 2024. West Virginia’s aviation scored better than the national grade of ‘D+’. Despite contributing $1.6 billion annually, challenges include aging terminals, on-time performance issues, and funding gaps. - **Broadband (D+)**: Access remains limited and unreliable, but major investments are underway. ARPA funded $275 million in fiber projects, and $625 million of BEAD funds are expected to close remaining gaps. With these initiatives, West Virginia is positioned to become a national leader in broadband connectivity. - **Energy (D)**: West Virginia produces nearly twice the energy it consumes, relying on coal for about 90% of electricity. Aging pipelines, outages, and flooding underscore infrastructure needs. The nuclear ban repeal in 2022 and $1 billion in utility investments have improved reliability, but challenges persist. - **Hazardous Waste (D)**: West Virginia tracks 179 hazardous waste sites and ranks 21st nationally for waste released per square mile. Oversight includes 114 RCRA-regulated generators, 8,840 underground and 42,240 aboveground storage tanks. Fourteen Superfund sites—11 on the National Priorities List—are all in floodplains, with only 3 completed. Strengthening asset management, permitting, and public accountability are essential. - **Inland Waterways (D-)**: West Virginia’s 425 miles of navigable rivers moved 45.7 million tons of cargo worth $3.4 billion in 2021. Aging lock and dam infrastructure and declining barge traffic challenge reinvestment. USACE prioritizes limited resources via asset management, but modernization needs remain. Federal investment and improved multimodal access are critical. - **Levees (D+)**: 21 levee systems protect 34,000 people, $7.2 billion in property, and 200 miles of roads. Average age: 53 years. All are locally maintained with limited resources. Expanding funding (e.g., Flood Resiliency Trust Fund) and improving maintenance practices are key for long-term protection. - **Ports (D+)**: West Virginia’s two federal port districts support 127,000 jobs and $1.8 billion in tax revenue. However, defunding of the Public Port Authority and aging infrastructure hinder strategic planning. Most facilities are privately owned and lack asset management; reinvestment and statewide coordination are needed. - **Public Parks (D)**: Tourism is valued, with $7M million invested in Hawks Nest State Park upgrades and free vacation guides released in 2022. Deferred maintenance—such as 150-year-old tunnels on North Bend Rail Trail—poses safety risks. - **Rail (C-)**: West Virginia’s 2,401 miles of rail moved 52.7 million tons of freight in 2019, projected to decline to 29.2 million tons by 2050 despite rising value. Under-capacity and declining demand challenge the system, though tech investments improve maintenance. Passenger rail serves 143,000 passengers annually but struggles financially. - **Schools (D-)**: 85% of West Virginia school facilities fall below modern standards; 543 of 637 rated poor or fair. SBA receives $50 million annually vs. $300 million needed; funding gap now $3.2 billion due to rising costs. Infrastructure remains severely underfunded and inadequate. - **Solid Waste (C+)**: 16 landfills managed over two million tons of municipal solid waste in 2023, with residents generating 5.7 lbs/person/day (above the national average). Landfills are at 54% capacity, but recycling access is limited—especially in rural areas lacking drop-off or curbside service. Enhanced recycling, asset management, and resilience are needed. - **Stormwater (D-)**: Infrastructure averages 80 years old, with unknown conditions and minimal maintenance records. Flooding is frequent due to outdated systems and vegetation loss. $49 million federal funds in 2025 help, but stormwater projects remain underfunded, especially in rural areas. - **Transit (D)**: West Virginia’s 18 transit providers face severe funding gaps; state support is $1.28 per capita (ranking 37th nationally). Lack of non-federal match jeopardizes the use of $195 million IIJA funds. Systems struggle to maintain state-of-good-repair and expand coverage. ### The path forward Despite the positive trend since 2020, West Virginia’s infrastructure faces significant needs. ASCE has five recommendations to increase the grade in West Virginia: - **Establish sustained statewide investments** to address aging assets, maintenance backlogs, and modernizing infrastructure for future economic and demographic needs. Strengthening access to federal grants can also help address funding issues. - **Ensure safety is a fundamental priority across all infrastructure systems.** This includes increasing inspection capacity for dams and levees, conducting statewide assessments to identify and prioritize school safety retrofits, and accelerating the replacement of lead service lines in drinking water systems. - **Accelerate efforts to improve the resilience of infrastructure** to ensure that critical systems can withstand climate-related threats and other hazards. - **Increase the pace of technology adoption.** The state should begin phasing in new and emerging technologies such as improved disposal technologies for hazardous and solid waste, distributed power units for rail, and updated intermodal logistics and cargo handling systems for freight. - **Address population decline** by strategically investing in infrastructure systems that support daily life and shape community vitality, such as broadband systems, transit operations, water systems and more. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=West%E2%80%AFVirginia%202025%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20ASCE%20Grades%20%26%20Key%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, State Report, West Virginia **Tags:** funding gap, infrastructure, population decline, resilience --- ### [Florida’s Infrastructure Report Card: A ‘C+’ and Climbing](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/florida-infrastructure-report-card-2025/) **Published:** December 10, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Florida%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20and%20Climbing&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F12%2Fflorida-report-card-2025-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Florida%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20and%20Climbing "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Florida%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20and%20Climbing "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Florida%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20and%20Climbing&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [***2025 Report Card for Florida’s Infrastructure***](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/florida/) is out, and the Sunshine State earned a **‘C+’.** Florida joins [Georgia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/georgia/), [Nevada](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/nevada/), [Utah](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/utah/), and [Wisconsin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wisconsin/) as the fifth state to earn a ‘C+’, which is higher than the national infrastructure grade of ‘C’. This progress reflects years of hard work, strategic investment, and a commitment to resilience. Six of the 17 categories had grades in the ‘B’ range, the most of any state. Florida’s leaders are preparing for the future. With a growing population and more severe weather, the state invested in programs to strengthen systems and modernize assets. ## The Grades | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B+** | Ports | | **B** | Bridges, Solid Waste | | **B-** | Drinking Water, Energy, Public Parks | | **C+** | Roads, Transit, Wastewater | | **C** | Coastal Areas, Rail, Stormwater | | **C-** | Aviation | | **D+** | Levees, Schools | | **D-** | Dams | ## Infrastructure leaders praise Florida’s success ![ASCE President-Elect Carol Haddock speaks at the Florida Infrastructure Report Card release event](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/florida-release-carol-400x225.jpeg "florida-release-carol")ASCE President Elect Carol Haddock speaks at the Florida Infrastructure Report Card releaseThe release event was held outside of the historic State Capitol building. It featured remarks from several leaders in the civil engineering and infrastructure community. John Hornbeck, a Vice President at HNTB and Project Manager for Brightline Florida talked about the development of the [ASCE Outstanding Civil Engi](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/article/2025/10/11/brightline-florida-east-west-connector-earns-2025-ocea-award) [neering Achievement Award winning project](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/article/2025/10/11/brightline-florida-east-west-connector-earns-2025-ocea-award). [ASCE President-Elect Carol Haddock](https://www.asce.org/about-asce/leadership/carol-haddock) talked about the national report card, and the vital importance of resilient infrastructure in a state where hurricanes have the potential to damage or destroy systems. ## Where Florida Excels - **Ports (B+)**: Florida’s 16 ports support 1.2 million jobs and add $195 billion to the economy. Recent investments include $5 billion over five years to deepen harbors and modernize systems. - **Bridges and Roads**: Only 2.8% of Florida’s bridges are in poor condition; less than half the national average. Over 83% of pavement is rated “good,” far exceeding national performance. - **Energy and Drinking Water**: Solar **makes up 83% of Florida’s renewables, and drinking water systems improved despite aging infrastructure.** ## Challenges Ahead Not all grades improved. **Aviation slipped to C-, and dams remain at D-,** the lowest score. Levees and schools also need attention. These areas show why continued investment and resilience planning matter. ![ASCE Florida report card chapters celebrate release of the Florida report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/florida-release-group-400x225.jpeg "florida-release-group")ASCE Florida report card chapters celebrate release of the Florida report card## Why It Matters Infrastructure **drives Florida’s economy and quality of life. Strong systems mean safety, growth, and a better future.** To keep moving forward, ASCE recommends: - **Increase funding** for modernization and maintenance. - **Prioritize safety and accessibility** across all transportation modes. - **Build resilient systems** to withstand extreme weather. - **Support workforce development and innovation** to meet future needs. Florida’s progress proves that investment works, but the work isn’t done. We need **policymakers, industry leaders, and residents** must keep pushing for sustained investment and smart planning to ensure infrastructure powers the economy and protects health, safety, and quality of life. 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Smarter Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/closing-the-data-gap-smart-infrastructure-digital-solutions/) **Published:** December 3, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Panelists explored how digital solutions—like AI, cloud collaboration, and connected data environments—are streamlining project information, improving decision-making, and enabling more resilient, future-ready infrastructure. ### The Challenge: Aging Systems and a $3.7 Trillion Funding Gap The [*2025 ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) highlights both progress made and continuing challenges for infrastructure, from aging systems and the impacts of extreme weather to a $3.7 trillion funding gap. As demand for new projects grows and the pressure to do more with less continues to rise, the ability to harness better information and break down project silos is more critical than ever. ### Key Insights from Industry Leaders Several initiatives to leverage data for improved outcomes in infrastructure were discussed, including the use of AI tools to enhance engineering efficiency and the need to create common data environments. Panelists concluded by discussing the role of data and technology in infrastructure projects, highlighting the need for sustained investment, improved cybersecurity measures, and the integration of AI and 3D spatial data models for a more connected and data-driven future. ### Watch the Full Webinar Catch the full conversation with industry leaders, including: - [Marsha Anderson Bomar](https://www.asce.org/about-asce/leadership/marsha-d-anderson-bomar), Ph.D., ASCE President - [Amy Bunszel](https://www.autodesk.com/company/newsroom/corporate-info/executive-bios/amy-bunszel), EVP, Autodesk - [Thomas W. Smith III](https://www.asce.org/about-asce/leadership/thomas-w-smith-iii), Executive Director, ASCE - Jay Mezher, VP of Digital Delivery, Mott MacDonald Thank you to Autodesk for sponsoring this important discussion! The webinar recording is below. 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**Published:** December 3, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=California%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%202025%3A%20Challenges%20and%20Opportunities&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F12%2Fcalifornia-report-card-2025-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=California%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%202025%3A%20Challenges%20and%20Opportunities "Share on 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Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/)*, giving the state an overall grade of C-, consistent with the grade it received in 2019. California is home to nearly 40 million residents, a global economy, and some of the nation’s most complex infrastructure systems, supporting bustling ports, advanced water systems, world-leading transit networks, and communities stretching from dense urban centers to wildfire-prone rural regions. So, what does a C- mean? California’s infrastructure is holding up, thanks in part to major federal and state investments, but aging assets, climate pressures, and rapid growth are pushing many systems to their limits. Wildfires, drought, storms, earthquakes, and rising sea levels continue to test an already overstretched network. ### A Few Categories Are Moving in the Right Direction Some infrastructure sectors have seen meaningful progress since the last report card: - **Aviation (B-):** California’s airports moved 113 million passengers in 2024, representing over 11% of all U.S. air travelers, and many facilities have made major upgrades in terminals, airfields, and transit access. - **Energy (D):** California is expanding renewable energy, battery storage, and wildfire-mitigation technologies, but the grid is struggling to keep pace with rising electricity demand from EVs and data centers. - **Hazardous Waste (C):** California continues to clean up contaminated sites (700 in 2023) and invests heavily in hazardous waste management, improving public health and environmental outcomes. - **Levees (D+):** Flood-risk areas have seen improvements, especially in the Sacramento River system, helping protect millions of residents and billions in assets. But with an estimated $59 billion in needed upgrades and bond funds largely exhausted, local agencies are struggling to keep pace. - **Ports (B):** California’s ports handle 38% of U.S. imports and have made significant strides thanks to major capital projects and more than $1 billion in recent federal investment. Despite these gains, long-term modernization needs still outpace available funding. - **Rail (B):** The system meets current demand but needs major upgrades and new funding to support population growth and large expansion projects like high-speed rail. These improvements show what’s possible when sustained investment, innovative policy, and cross-agency collaboration align. ### But Other Sectors Are Falling Behind For many categories, progress has stalled or even declined: - **Bridges (C-):** More than 1,500 California bridges remain in poor condition, and many structures are aging beyond their intended lifespan. - **Public Parks (D+):** California’s parks face a $5.6 billion maintenance backlog and major gaps in access, with 60% of residents lacking sufficient park space. - **Roads (D):** Nearly one-third of California roads are in poor condition, and the state leads the nation in congestion. - **Solid Waste (C-):** California’s solid waste infrastructure is struggling to meet ambitious recycling goals amid facility closures and high costs. - **Transit (C-):** Transit systems have seen modest improvements, but ridership remains far below pre-pandemic levels and agencies face rising costs. M - **Wastewater (C+):** Many wastewater pipes and facilities are decades old, contributing to more than $65 billion in statewide needs. - **Dams (D+):** California has strengthened dam safety oversight, but aging structures and climate-driven extremes are increasing risks faster than upgrades can keep pace. Significant investment is needed to maintain existing dams, improve emergency preparedness, and ensure reliable water and power supplies. - **Drinking Water (D+):** While California leads in water innovation, closing the $11.5 billion funding gap and improving equity for small, rural, and disadvantaged communities is essential for safe, reliable service. - **Inland Waterways (D):** The Delta’s waterways enable critical freight movement, but heavy shoaling, outdated facilities, and vulnerable bridges highlight the need for major dredging and modernization. Without new investments, navigability and economic activity will continue to decline. - **Schools (D+):** With 30% of schools over 50 years old and district budgets strained by declining enrollment and rising costs, many campuses need major modernization. - **Stormwater (D):** California’s aging stormwater systems are underfunded and increasingly strained by extreme weather. Many of these systems face growing climate risks, and without long-term funding, modernization may not keep pace with economic needs or population growth. ### Why It Matters California leads the nation in economic productivity, innovation, clean energy, and global trade. But that leadership depends on reliable roads and bridges, resilient water systems, safe and up-to-date schools, modernized ports, and strong energy infrastructure. Between 2020 and 2024, California experienced eight billion-dollar disasters, resulting in $20-$50 billion in costs. These disasters illustrate the high cost of deferred investment and the urgent need for resilient design. Infrastructure resilience isn’t just a policy priority—it is a public safety imperative. ### What Needs to Happen ASCE’s recommendations for California focus on four big moves: - **Secure Reliable, Long-Term Funding:** California needs stable, flexible funding streams across all infrastructure sectors. Consistent investment, supported by legislation that clears barriers to funding, is essential to keep pace with maintenance and modernization needs. - **Strengthen Collaborative Leadership:** Cross-sector partnerships and a skilled workforce are key to managing California’s complex systems. Advancing asset management, predictive maintenance, and smart, sustainable technologies will improve performance and boost resilience. - **Connect Infrastructure to Quality of Life:** Communities should be engaged in planning and kept informed about both progress and risks. Raising public awareness helps build trust and reinforces how infrastructure directly affects safety, reliability, and overall well-being. - **Modernize Policies to Deliver Projects Faster:** Streamlining permitting, updating standards, and using data-driven, risk-based planning can accelerate project delivery and reduce costs. Climate-resilient, multimodal design will help ensure California’s infrastructure is efficient, adaptable, and ready for the future. ### The Path Ahead California has world-class engineers, innovative public agencies, and a long track record of tackling big challenges. But today’s C- shows that the state’s infrastructure is not yet keeping pace with its ambitions or its risks. With continued investment, forward-looking planning, and a commitment to resilience, California can build an infrastructure system that meets the moment—and the future. 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funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/election-day-infrastructure-wins/) **Published:** November 13, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Election%20Day%202025%20delivers%20major%20wins%20for%20U.S.%20infrastructure%20funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2Finfrastructure-wins-election-2025.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Election%20Day%202025%20delivers%20major%20wins%20for%20U.S.%20infrastructure%20funding "Share on 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This is part of a trend in 2025 where voters have approved 82 percent of more than 280 state and local infrastructure funding measures. These initiatives are expected to generate more than $24 billion in new and continued spending on roads, bridges, rail, and other systems. Though the approved ballot measures varied considerably in size and scope, here are some of the most notable infrastructure wins on Election Day and in 2025. ## Denver Approves Historic $1 Billion Bond for Transportation and Park Infrastructure Voters in Denver overwhelmingly approved the [Vibrant Denver](https://coloradonewsline.com/2025/11/04/denver-voters-bond-package/) bond package. It’s a nearly $1 billion initiative, the largest in the city’s history, that will finance more than 200 projects across the Mile High City. Nearly half of the funds provided by the bond will go to improving Denver’s transportation and traffic safety infrastructure. An additional $175 million is dedicated to upgrading the city’s park and recreation facilities. Mayor Mike Johnston estimates that the combined impact of the Vibrant Denver bonds will generate 7,000 jobs and a $1.8 billion in economic benefits for the city. ## **Texas voters pass water infrastructure funding** In Texas, voters [overwhelmingly approved](https://www.khou.com/article/news/politics/elections/results-for-texas-proposition-4-funding-water-projects/285-00be1516-f0ed-4e03-9c8f-8ada43bc1d4a) Proposition 4, an amendment to the Texas Constitution that would allow the state to allocate $ 1 billion annual in sales tax revenue over a twenty-year period to the Texas Water Fund, a special fund created by the Texas legislature in 2023 to assist in financing water projects in the state. Funding from the initiative will be divided into two categories: financing for new projects to expand the water supply available in Texas and funding for existing water programs such as those involving flood control and agricultural water conservation. Despite the significant investment, the largest water infrastructure investment in Texas history. It is estimated Texas’ infrastructure will require over [$154 billion](https://www.texastribune.org/2025/11/04/texas-elections-2025-water/) in funding over the next 50 years to meet its water needs. ## **Mecklenburg County, NC votes to fund road and transit projects** Citizens of Mecklenburg County narrowly passed a referendum to increase their local sales tax by 1% to fund future road and transit projects. The approved sales tax increase, from 7.25 to 8.25%, is expected to generate an additional $19.4 billion in revenue over three decades once it goes into effect July 1, 2026. The spending of the newly created revenue will be overseen by a new 27 member regional transit authority that has yet to be fully formed. As currently envisioned, [80% of the new sales tax revenue](https://www.charlottenc.gov/CATS/News/Voters-Approve-Mecklenburg-County-Tax-Referendum-to-Improve-Public-Transportation-and-Transit-Systems) will be split evenly between road and pedestrian improvements and commuter rail expansion. The remaining 20% of new money is earmarked for bus system modernization. Mecklenburg County is home to Charlotte, the state’s largest city, and has experienced greater than 20% population growth every decade since 1980. ## **Ohio reauthorizes $250 Million Annual Program for Local Infrastructure** Earlier this year, Ohio voters chose to reauthorize the State Capital Improvement Program (SCIP), a state program that provides financing assistance for local government infrastructure projects. Under the latest reauthorization, SCIP will provide up to $250 million in general obligation bonds each year for the next decade to fund projects like bridges, roads, and water related infrastructure. First authorized in 1987, SCIP has now been reauthorized four times. It is estimated the program has supported 4,500 infrastructure projects across the state in last ten years alone. ## What it means These state and local electoral victories are reflective of a broader national trend supporting transportation and infrastructure investments. Since 2016, infrastructure has been on the ballot more than 3,000 times and voters across the country have approved 84% of these measures [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Election%20Day%202025%20delivers%20major%20wins%20for%20U.S.%20infrastructure%20funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2Finfrastructure-wins-election-2025.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Election%20Day%202025%20delivers%20major%20wins%20for%20U.S.%20infrastructure%20funding "Share on 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2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Airport%20infrastructure%20focus%20of%20ASCE%20Making%20the%20Grade%20webinar&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2Faviation-webinar.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Airport%20infrastructure%20focus%20of%20ASCE%20Making%20the%20Grade%20webinar "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Airport%20infrastructure%20focus%20of%20ASCE%20Making%20the%20Grade%20webinar&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On November 6, [ASCE](https://asce.org) joined with airport leaders and experts to showcase the state of aviation infrastructure. As a part of the *Making the Grade* webinar series, presenters shared key perspectives on various criteria essential to airport facility performance including capacity, funding, and innovation. [Aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) was one of 18 categories graded in the [*2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) receiving a “D+,” level with the 2021 report. While federal funding has advanced critical upgrades in recent years, airports continue to remain challenged by constraints in capacity, workforce, and facility maintenance. Featured panelists were: - Melissa Cooper, [Kansas City Aviation](https://kcairports.com/) - Jason Terreri, [Syracuse Hancock International Airport](https://syrairport.org/) - Juliette Peyroux, [Magnusson Klemencic Associates](https://www.mka.com/) - David Sklar, [WSP](https://www.wsp.com/en-us/) The webinar recording is below. [Click here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/2025-aviation-webinar-slides.pdf) for the presentation slides. A special thank you to Magnusson Klemencic Associates for sponsoring this educational opportunity! 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Airport%20infrastructure%20focus%20of%20ASCE%20Making%20the%20Grade%20webinar&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Webinars & Events --- ### [Louisiana’s Infrastructure: Making Progress, But Still a Long Road Ahead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/louisianas-infrastructure-making-progress-but-still-a-long-road-ahead/) **Published:** November 12, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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These threats challenge and wear down an aging network of transportation and water systems. ASCE’s Louisiana Section gave us the latest snapshot: **Louisiana’s infrastructure earned a** **‘C-’** **on its 2025 Report Card.** That’s a slight bump from the **‘D+’** the state received back in 2017, but still below the national average of **‘C.’** ![Eight professionals in business attire posing for a group photo in a formal room with wood-paneled walls and an American flag in the background, all smiling at the camera.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_1018-400x300.jpeg "IMG_1018")ASCE Louisiana Section members presenting the 2025 Report Card for Louisianas Infrastructure in Baton Rouge LASo, what does a ‘C-’ really mean? In short: Louisiana’s roads, bridges, water systems, and other critical networks are hanging in there, but they’re not keeping up with what is needed now or in the future. Aging assets, tight budgets, and increasingly severe weather events are putting serious strain on the system. **A few categories have improved since 2017:** - **Aviation (C+)** Airports have seen upgrades that improve passenger experience and safety thanks to an uptick in federal funds from the COVID relief package and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). These provided a combined $338 million to Louisiana airports. The Louisiana Aviation Trust Fund also adds $28 million per year. - **Coastal Areas (C-)** Louisiana has invested over $1.6 billion annually to combat coastal erosion, an upgrade from prior years, completing more than 150 restoration projects. These efforts protect wetlands that serve as natural storm buffers and safeguard oil and gas infrastructure. Still, millions of acres remain vulnerable, and future funding is uncertain after 2031. - **Drinking Water (D)** While still graded low, some systems have begun modernizing treatment processes and addressing contamination risks. However, the challenge of aging pipes—many installed before 1960 and older than their intended design lives—remains significant. **Other categories slipped or stayed stagnant:** - **Bridges (D+)** Over 11% of Louisiana’s bridges are in poor condition, nearly double the national average. Deferred maintenance and limited funding have created a $9 billion gap for repairs and upgrades. This isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a safety issue and one that threatens economic growth when commuters and freight movement have to seek alternative routes. - **Roads (D)** Louisiana faces a $24 billion maintenance backlog, and **traffic congestion has surged by** **13%** since 2017. The state also ranks 14th in motor vehicle fatality rates per miles traveled. While the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provided $5 billion for roads and bridges, that funding expires in 2026. - **Wastewater and Ports (D+)** Wastewater systems struggle with aging treatment plants and limited capacity, while ports—critical for Louisiana’s economy—need modernization to handle larger vessels and climate-related risks. - **Dams and Levees (C)** Only **4%** **of Louisiana’s 693 dams** are in satisfactory condition, and maintenance performance has declined since 2017. Private dam owners are less likely to address deficiencies, which raises concerns about flood safety. ## Why Does This Matter? Louisiana has endured **36 extreme weather events in the past decade**, causing **$200 billion in damage**. Infrastructure resilience isn’t just about convenience; it’s about protecting lives, property, and the economy. Without significant investment, these vulnerabilities will worsen. ## What Needs to Happen? **ASCE’s recommendations boil down to five big moves:** 1. **Increase Funding:** Nearly every sector faces massive backlogs. Inflation compounds the problem, making delayed repairs even more expensive. Sustainable funding streams are critical to reverse decades of underinvestment. 2. **Better Data Systems:** Decisions are only as good as the data behind them. Louisiana needs modern tools to monitor infrastructure conditions and share information across agencies. This would allow smarter prioritization of limited resources. 3. **Build Resilience:** Hurricanes, flooding, and saltwater intrusion aren’t going away. Infrastructure projects must integrate climate risk assessments and adopt resilient materials and designs. Nature-based solutions, like wetland restoration, can also reduce future damage. 4. **Prioritize Safety:** Aging roads, bridges, and dams pose real risks. Public outreach campaigns and proactive maintenance can help prevent accidents and protect communities. 5. **Collaborate More:** Solving these challenges requires teamwork. State agencies, local governments, universities, and private industry need to share best practices and align investments for maximum impact. Louisiana’s infrastructure is improving, but slowly. A ‘C-’ isn’t failing, but it’s far from excellent. With more resources, smarter planning, and a focus on resilience, Louisiana can aim higher. After all, as ASCE Louisiana Section President Katherine Foreman Castille, P.E., put it: “Our communities have always come back stronger. Now, our infrastructure needs to do the same.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Louisiana%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20Making%20Progress%2C%20But%20Still%20a%20Long%20Road%20Ahead&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F11%2Flouisiana-report-card-featured-image-web.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Louisiana%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20Making%20Progress%2C%20But%20Still%20a%20Long%20Road%20Ahead "Share on 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### [2025 Maryland Infrastructure Report Card: Key Findings, Challenges & Future Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/maryland-infrastructure-report-card-2025/) **Published:** October 23, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=2025%20Maryland%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20Key%20Findings%2C%20Challenges%20%26%20Future%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## Maryland’s Infrastructure Holds Steady at a ‘C’ in 2025 Report Card ![ASCE Maryland Section leadership and guests at the release of the 2025 Report Card for Maryland's Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/md-report-card-group-photo-400x300.jpg "md-report-card-group-photo")ASCE Maryland Section leadership and guests at the release of the 2025 Report Card for Marylands Infrastructure Left to right ASCE Maryland Vice President Alyssa Sooklal ASCE Maryland Past President Rachel Sangree Amtrak VP for BP Tunnel Replacement Luigi Rosa WSSC Water CEO General Manager Kishia Powell ASCE Maryland President Sarah Taylor ASCE Maryland Report Card Chair Carrie NicholsonThe American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) [Maryland Section](https://www.ascemd.org) has released its [*2025 Report Card for Maryland’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/maryland/), assigning the state an overall grade of ‘C’, unchanged from 2020 and matching the national average. While this grade indicates that Maryland’s infrastructure is performing adequately for current needs, it also signals a pressing need for strategic investment to ensure long-term resilience and reliability. The report evaluates 13 categories of infrastructure, ranging from roads and bridges to ports and hazardous waste. Notably, Maryland saw improvements in dams, ports, rail, solid waste, and stormwater, while grades for aviation, bridges, energy, and roads declined. For the first time, the report includes an assessment of hazardous waste infrastructure. ## Grades by Category | Grade | Categories | |---|---| | B | Ports, Solid Waste | | B- | Bridges, Rail | | C+ | Aviation, Hazardous Waste, Stormwater, Wastewater | | C | Dams, Drinking Water | | C- | Roads | | D+ | Energy, Transit | ## Highlights from the 2025 Report Card - Bridges dropped to a B-. Despite being above the national average, Maryland’s aging bridge inventory and the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in 2024 underscore the need for resilience and redundancy. - Roads fell to a C-, with nearly half of major roads in mediocre or poor condition. Traffic congestion costs Maryland drivers $5.6 billion annually. - Ports improved to a B, with the Port of Baltimore supporting 273,000 jobs and contributing 12% of Maryland’s GDP. - Energy infrastructure received a D+, down from a C- in 2020. Maryland faces growing energy demand, relies on imports, and has aging generation facilities. - Water systems—drinking, stormwater, and wastewater—performed better than national averages but still face $10 billion in future needs. ## Spotlight on Guest Speakers The release event featured several influential voices in Maryland’s infrastructure landscape: - Kishia Powell, General Manager and CEO of [WSSC Water](https://www.wsscwater.com/), emphasized the need for continued investment. WSSC provides clean and reliable water to nearly two million customers and is the eighth largest water utility in the U.S. - Luigi Rosa, Amtrak’s VP for the [Baltimore and Potomac Tunnel Replacement Project](https://amtraknewera.com/fdt/), discussed how ASCE’s report cards shape infrastructure conversations. Rosa highlighted Amtrak’s work to replace the B&P Tunnel, benefiting MARC Commuter Rail and Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor. ## Recommendations for Infrastructure Improvement #### Establish Sustainable Funding Mechanisms Transition from fuel taxes to models like vehicle miles traveled, expand user fees, and leverage federal infrastructure programs to close funding gaps. #### Prioritize Resilience and Redundancy Invest in backup capacity, resilient design, and disaster preparedness, especially for bridges, ports, energy, and water systems. #### Modernize Aging Systems and Promote Innovation Upgrade roads, transit, energy, and waste systems to meet the demands of a growing, electrified population. Encourage smart technologies, predictive maintenance, and emerging treatment methods. #### Protect the Chesapeake Bay Coordinate investments in stormwater, wastewater, and drinking water systems to reduce pollution and enhance climate resilience. Prioritize green infrastructure and climate risk assessments. #### Strengthen Workforce and Public Engagement Expand apprenticeship programs, improve public education on dam safety and recycling, and enhance emergency response coordination. #### Enhance Coordination and Delivery Streamline project delivery, consolidate utilities, and adopt alternative procurement methods to reduce costs and improve timelines, especially in transit and rail sectors. ## Why Maryland’s Infrastructure Matters [![Cover page for the 2025 ASCE report card on Maryland's infrastructure, featuring a pier over blue water and the report's blue logo with text.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/maryland-report-card-2-cover.png "maryland-report-card-2-cover")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/maryland/)Infrastructure is the backbone of Maryland’s economy, public health, and safety. As the state’s population grows and climate risks intensify, investing in resilient, modern systems is essential. ASCE members will use the report card to advocate for infrastructure investment with local, state, and federal lawmakers. Thanks to all ASCE members who contributed to the *2025 Report Card for Maryland’s Infrastructure* and helped launch this vital advocacy tool. 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Deal](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-government-shuts-down-as-congress-fails-to-reach-spending-deal/) **Published:** October 3, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Federal%20Government%20Shuts%20Down%20as%20Congress%20Fails%20to%20Reach%20Spending%20Deal&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F10%2Fgovernment-shutdown-1-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Federal%20Government%20Shuts%20Down%20as%20Congress%20Fails%20to%20Reach%20Spending%20Deal "Share on 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not secured a deal to fund the government past the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2025. The federal government shutdown comes after weeks of negotiations in Congress on whether to approve a short-term continuing resolution that would have kept the government open through November 21 at FY 2025 spending levels. This short-term funding deal would have allowed appropriators and congressional leaders more time to craft a year-long spending agreement. Despite passing the House of Representatives, the legislation could not muster enough support in the Senate to reach the 60-votes to stave off a filibuster. The central issue in agreeing to a funding patch are health care demands by Democrats. Specifically, Democrats want to condition U.S. government funding on extending tax credits that have made health insurance more affordable for millions since the COVID-19 pandemic. Democrats are also looking to reverse Medicaid cuts passed in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) signed by President Trump in early July, which includes more than $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and food assistance over the next decade. On Wednesday morning, agencies across the federal government began winding down their operations and furloughing staff. The effects of the shutdown will be wide ranging, but the scope of its impacts will depend on how long the government remains shuttered. The [Congressional Budget Office](https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/2025-09/61773-Government-Shutdown.pdf) estimates that up to 750,000 federal workers could be furloughed during the shutdown and cost taxpayers $400 million for each day the affected agencies remain closed. ### **What Happens During a Government Shutdown?** The laws governing federal shutdowns have remained relatively constant for years, but the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has significant discretion in how it interprets these laws. Generally, the federal government is prohibited from incurring additional debt and making expenditures in the absence of funding. The government is also prohibited from receiving voluntary services from federal workers in the absence of appropriations, except for “emergencies involving the safety of human life or the protection of property.” Because of this, federal agencies must pause or diminish their activities in the absence of appropriations, resulting in a “shutdown.” All federal agencies are required to develop and update shutdown contingency plans, which are posted on their websites once approved by OMB. Earlier this year, OMB [issued a memo](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/a11.pdf) stating that activities financed with appropriations that have not lapsed can continue to operate in a shutdown, which could include mandatory funding (i.e., reconciliation bills or entitlement program funds) or unexpired prior-year funding with valid apportionments. The salaries of U.S. government workers carrying out these activities may be funded by lapsed appropriations. Whether a specific program will continue to operate is at the discretion of each individual agency. ### What Programs Will Continue During the Shutdown? Some of the government’s activities – such as those funded by permanent, mandatory or advanced appropriations – are not dependent on current fiscal year funding. Examples of these programs are Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and veterans’ healthcare benefits. These programs will continue despite the federal government shutdown. Certain government activities that are funded by user fees or trust funds that are outside of the appropriations process, such as reimbursements from the Highway Trust Fund, have usually continued during past shutdowns if the staff responsible for these projects are called into work. Government activities funded through legislation outside of the annual appropriations process, such as the IIJA and the OBBB, also typically continue during shutdowns. In addition, federal law allows the continuation of activities that are necessary to protect human life, safety, property or to discharge the president’s constitutional powers. For this reason, military operations, federal law enforcement and air traffic control will continue without interruption during the government shutdown. ### **What to Expect** Historically, federal agencies have worked to minimize the disruption of government shutdowns by using prior-year carryover funds available or other strategies. That said, the Trump administration is pursuing a different approach. In a [memo](https://www.politico.com/f/?id=00000199-7e8f-ddde-a199-fedf6c5d0000) from OMB published just before the shutdown came into effect, it indicated there may be mass layoffs in store for federal workers. The memo stipulates that Reduction in Force notices are to be sent to all employees in programs, projects, or activities that satisfy the following three conditions: - Discretionary funding lapses on October 1, 2025; - Another source of funding, such as OBBB is not currently available; and - he project, program or activity is not consistent with the president’s priorities The memo states these conditions would apply to staff who normally would be exempt or furloughed during a U.S. government shutdown. The furloughs will be extensive at some agencies. At the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly 90 percent of its staff will be furloughed. The Departments of Energy and Transportation will see 59 percent and 23 percent of their respective staff furloughed during the ongoing shutdown. These employment suspensions come on top of the 300,000 fewer workers who have or are expected to depart from federal employment in 2025 due to firings, layoffs and resignations. Moreover, the Trump administration has already said it will withhold $26 billion in funding for infrastructure and green energy projects in response to the shutdown, including 321 awards for more than 200 climate-related projects funded through the Department of Energy and funds designated for the Gateway Tunnel and Second Avenue Subway projects in New York. As of Friday October 3rd, there is little indication of when the impasse over government funding will be resolved. The most recent government shutdown happened from 2018-2019 during President Trump’s previous administration and lasted 35 days – the longest in U.S. history. ASCE Government Relations will continue to monitor the latest developments surrounding the ongoing shutdown and provide relevant updates to its members over the coming days. 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The discussion was timely and all too familiar, because while state DOTs have made significant progress in developing sophisticated asset management programs, the same core challenge continues to limit their impact: funding. It was an honor to represent KCI Technologies and contribute to a dialogue that addressed one of the most pressing issues in our industry: the growing disconnect between technical best practices and the financial resources needed to implement them. ## **The Evolution of Asset Management** Every state DOT I’ve worked with has developed strong, data-driven asset management programs. These include condition assessments, degradation models, and prioritization tools that allow agencies to make sound, long-term decisions about their transportation infrastructure. These programs are built around maximizing performance and extending asset life in the most cost-effective way possible. From a technical standpoint, they work. The problem isn’t the strategy; it’s what happens when strategy meets budget limitations. ## **Where Strategy Meets Funding Constraints** Imagine a pavement section that, based on its current condition and projected performance, is best suited for full-depth reconstruction. This treatment would restore the asset to an “A” grade and deliver the greatest long-term value. But once cost estimates are developed and placed alongside other competing priorities, that recommendation often gets replaced with a lower-cost approach, such as a patch and overlay. The pavement remains serviceable, its life is extended, but the end result is a “C” grade at best. This scenario plays out over and over again, not because DOTs lack strong strategies, but because the financial resources needed to fully implement those strategies simply aren’t available. ## **The Hidden Cost of Underinvestment** This dynamic is one of the primary reasons our infrastructure continues to lag in overall condition. It’s not due to a lack of knowledge, effort, or innovation. In fact, transportation agencies and industry professionals have spent years refining models, materials, and methods that optimize long-term performance. This funding-first approach forces the system to become reactive rather than strategic. Asset management shifts from a tool for long-term stewardship to a triage system, doing the best with limited resources. Underfunding doesn’t always produce immediate, dramatic failures; rather, the results can include subtle changes like increased travel delays, rising maintenance costs, premature system deterioration, and missed opportunities for innovation. The consequences can also extend beyond infrastructure performance. Poor asset conditions can affect safety and economic growth while disproportionately impacting communities where deferred maintenance is most common. ## **KCI’s Approach to Bridging the Gap** At KCI, we understand these challenges firsthand. Our teams work alongside public agencies to develop comprehensive asset management plans that incorporate both engineering insight and financial reality. We help clients evaluate life-cycle costs, explore multiple treatment scenarios, and pursue innovative funding sources, including grants and partnerships. Our goal is not only to recommend the right solutions, but also to help agencies implement them in a way that fits within their available resources while still aligning with long-term goals. ## **Moving the Conversation Forward** The ASCE Solutions Summit offered an important platform to elevate this conversation, and it was encouraging to see so many leaders from across the industry coming together to discuss solutions that balance strategy and funding. Infrastructure doesn’t deteriorate overnight, and it won’t be restored overnight either. By recognizing the central role funding plays in asset management decisions and working together to advocate for sustainable investment, we can begin to close the gap between what we should be doing and what we can do. Smart engineering is essential, but it must be paired with smart investment. Only then will we realize the full potential of the planning and tools we’ve worked so hard to develop. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Bridge%20Infrastructure%20Problems%20in%20the%20U.S.%3A%20Modern%20Challenges%20and%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*Guest post by: Bibhuti Aryal, Senior Director, Transportation, Bentley Systems* Growing up in Pittsburgh, “The City of Bridges,” Fern Hollow was one of many bridges my family and I crossed on buses and on foot to get from one neighborhood to another for school, work, shopping, and more. These bridges were not just concrete structures; they were a familiar landmark, a backdrop to daily life, and literal symbols of connectivity. Never did I imagine that one of these structures could come crumbling down. The [bridge collapse in 2022](https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/Pages/HWY22MH003.aspx) shook the local and national community, serving as a reminder of the vulnerabilities in America’s aging infrastructure and the consequences of inaction. ![Snowy hillside with a collapsed bridge and wrecked vehicles, including a red bus and a tipped truck, debris scattered.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/fern-hollow-bridge-ntsb.jpg "fern-hollow-bridge-ntsb")The Fern Hollow Bridge in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Image from NTSB## Aging Bridges, Rising Risks: U.S. Bridge Infrastructure Problems Bridges are vital links in our transportation network, connecting communities and facilitating commerce. However, many of these structures are aging and in need of repair. The sheer scale of the challenges is alarming. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has consistently highlighted the challenges facing our bridges, and [according to the 2025 report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/), over 46,000 bridges in the United States are structurally deficient. This means that while they are still in use, they require significant maintenance and repair to ensure safety and functionality. To add to this challenge, the ASCE report card also points out that 22,420 bridges nationally are susceptible to extreme storm events. One of the key reasons for the state of our bridges is funding. The federal government, along with state and local agencies, must allocate sufficient resources to address the backlog of repairs. Although [the ](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684)[2021 ](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684)[Bipartisan Infrastructure Law](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684) was a significant step in the right direction in terms of investment and also for incentivizing the use of technology, continuous investment is necessary. ## How to Address America’s Structurally Deficient Bridges Given all these challenges, the situation feels grim, but innovative agencies are proving that there is light at the end of this proverbial tunnel. From using BIM and 3D modeling in Design and Construction to advances in materials science and construction techniques, technology and innovation can help us design and build more durable and resilient structures. State agencies like Minnesota DOT and engineering firms like Collins Engineers have proven that using drones to create a virtual replica of a bridge can [make bridge inspection 30% faster](https://www.roadsbridges.com/technology/article/33017424/an-icon-meets-the-future) while also making it safer for the engineers and the traveling public. ![Bird's-eye view of a stone bridge with turquoise chalk markings across the road and sidewalk, suggesting surveying or planning work.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/robert-street-bridge.jpg "robert-street-bridge")Robert Street Bridge Using AI to identify cracking Image courtesy of Collins EngineersTechnology can also help us better operate and maintain transportation infrastructure and even recover from weather-related disasters like the [historic flooding Kentucky faced in July 2022](https://www.weather.gov/jkl/July2022Flooding), after which the state faced the challenge of assessing the condition of over 1,000 bridges to ensure traveler safety and mobility. This effort was expected to take a decade and over $7 million, but QK4 used technology to reduce survey time by 90% and costs by 50%, saving the state over $3M and setting new standards in bridge engineering and construction. ![Collage of a wooden bridge over railway tracks in a snowy landscape; bottom-left shows an aerial view and bottom-right a lidar/point-cloud visualization.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/bridge-scan-images.jpg "bridge-scan-images")Combining field survey codes laser scan and drone context creates a 3D existing conditions model Image courtesy of QK4The state of our bridges is a critical issue that requires ongoing attention and investment, and as we look to the future, it is clear that innovation will have to play a bigger role in addressing the challenges. We cannot dig out of this hole through manual effort of the hardworking engineers, there is not enough money to buy our way out of it, and we do not have any time to waste before the next weather-related disaster or the next Fern Hollow incident occurs. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Bridge%20Infrastructure%20Problems%20in%20the%20U.S.%3A%20Modern%20Challenges%20and%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News --- ### [Decoding America’s Construction Labor Shortage: Implications for National Stability and Security](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/americas-construction-labor-shortage/) **Published:** September 3, 2025 **Author:** Guest Author **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Decoding%20America%E2%80%99s%20Construction%20Labor%20Shortage%3A%20Implications%20for%20National%20Stability%20and%20Security&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F09%2Fconstruction-hiring-featured.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Decoding%20America%E2%80%99s%20Construction%20Labor%20Shortage%3A%20Implications%20for%20National%20Stability%20and%20Security "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Decoding%20America%E2%80%99s%20Construction%20Labor%20Shortage%3A%20Implications%20for%20National%20Stability%20and%20Security&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The US built environment, encompassing construction, infrastructure, real estate, and urban planning, is grappling with a severe labor shortage. Yet, this aspect of the American economy plays an outsized role in the nation’s ability to support critical sectors such as housing, transportation, defense, and energy. On-site personnel represent 74% of the workforce in the built environment, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. So, identifying challenges and proposing actionable solutions for the construction labor shortage could alleviate strains on the built environment as a whole. ## Challenges Facing the Construction Labor Market ##### **The construction workforce is divided into five main categories:** 1. **Low-skilled trades** require no formal education or experience. Despite low entry barriers, this category faces significant shortages, with 217,000 openings and median salaries ranging from $44,000 to $57,000, according to April 2025 BLS data. 2. **High-skilled trades** necessitate a high school diploma or equivalent, along with onsite training and apprenticeships. Shortage here is even more pronounced, with 390,000 openings and median salaries between $47,000 and $102,000. 3. **Front-line supervisors** typically rise within the occupation through extensive experience. There were 37,000 openings for front-line supervisors, as of April, with a median salary of $76,000. 4. **Architects and engineers** require college degrees, with some professionals requiring state licensure. There were 90,900 openings in professional careers, with median salaries ranging from $79,000 to $165,000. 5. **Developers, managers, and support professions** require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, depending on the role. There were 136,500 openings in this category, with a median salary of $49,000 to $105,000. - **The built environment faces several challenges in attracting new talent:** **Working conditions** are a common issue, with 90% of onsite workers reporting problems such as working in low postures and outdoor exposure. - **Workforce representation** is another challenge, particularly among women. - **The aging workforce** looms, with labor demand expected to increase through 2030. - **Location inconsistency** requires frequent job site changes, increasing commute time and costs. - **Technological adoption** is hindered by high initial costs, resistance to change, and workers’ fears of job loss. ## Solutions to the Construction Labor Shortage ##### **Proposed solutions to the** **challenges noted above include:** - **Expanding the talent pool** by implementing programs to attract underrepresented groups, including women. - **Elevating training programs** by developing and expanding apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on experience and mentorship. - **Optimizing the work environment** by investing in advanced safety equipment and protocols, and promoting policies that support work-life balance. - **Incorporating technology** with the use of wearables like smart helmets and vests, robotics for physically demanding tasks, UAVs for inspections and monitoring, and training workers to interact effectively with technology. - **Innovating means and methods**, such as through off-site modular fabrication. Advanced technologies like digital twins can reduce errors, improve distribution, and automate labor-intensive tasks. ### **Effectively incorporating these recommendations requires stakeholders to collaborate and take specific actions by each group.** - **Asset owners** can integrate innovative construction methods, promote work-life balance policies, and support training programs for workers. - **Industry organizations** can fund workforce development programs, invest in automation technologies, and support employee retention initiatives. - **Public sector officials** can set advanced safety equipment requirements and protocols, enforce health and safety standards, facilitate technology adoption, and streamline regulatory processes. - **Design and engineering firms** can collaborate with stakeholders and enhance training programs. - **Construction companies** can adopt advanced technologies, engage in apprenticeship programs, and improve working conditions. The construction sector stands at a critical juncture. Addressing labor shortages is paramount to ensuring future viability and growth, not just for the industry but for the American economy. By implementing these targeted actions, each stakeholder group can contribute to a more resilient construction labor market that not only meets current demands but also adapts to future challenges. *This blog contains general information only, and Deloitte is not, by means of this blog, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This blog is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor.* *Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this blog.* *As used in this blog, “Deloitte” means Deloitte Transactions and Business Analytics LLP, a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of our legal structure. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting.* *Copyright © 2025 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Decoding%20America%E2%80%99s%20Construction%20Labor%20Shortage%3A%20Implications%20for%20National%20Stability%20and%20Security&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F09%2Fconstruction-hiring-featured.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Decoding%20America%E2%80%99s%20Construction%20Labor%20Shortage%3A%20Implications%20for%20National%20Stability%20and%20Security "Share on 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Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/idahos-infrastructure-sees-modest-progress-in-2025-asce-report-card/) **Published:** September 11, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Idaho%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Sees%20Modest%20Progress%20in%202025%20ASCE%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F09%2Fidaho-report-card-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Idaho%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Sees%20Modest%20Progress%20in%202025%20ASCE%20Report%20Card "Share on 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depend on. Today ASCE’s Idaho sections released its *2025 Report Card for Idaho’s Infrastructure*, awarding the state an overall grade of ‘C’, up from a ‘C-’ in 2018. While there is still significant room for improvement, this marks a positive step forward for the state’s infrastructure systems. The report card was officially unveiled today at the Idaho State Capitol in Boise by the report’s authors and with remarks from State Sen. Lori Den Hartog, R-Meridian, underscoring the importance of infrastructure to the state’s future and the role of public policy in shaping it. ## Investments Paying Off The improved grade reflects the impact of recent infrastructure investments at both the state and federal levels. Idaho has received $3.5 billion through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which has funded 873 projects—primarily in transportation. These investments are helping Idaho address the needs of one of the nation’s fastest growing populations and the increasing strain from drought and extreme weather events. At the state level, programs like the Transportation Expansion and Congestion Mitigation (TECM) program raised over $2 billion for roads and bridges since 2019, using asset management to invest in the most cost-effective and necessary maintenance projects. Significant needs still remain across all categories, but Idaho legislators have effectively prioritized projects that have significant impacts on the economy and public safety and made the best use of available resources. ## A Closer Look at the Grades ASCE evaluated nine infrastructure categories essential to Idaho’s economy, public safety, and quality of life. Here’s how the state performed: | Grade | Categories | |---|---| | C+ | Drinking Water, Energy, Wastewater | | C | Dams, Roads | | C- | Bridges, Transit | | D+ | Aviation, Schools | ## Roads and Bridges Roads improved to a ‘C’, with 87% of state highways now in good or fair condition—exceeding the Idaho Transportation Department’s goal. Bridges improved from a ‘D’ to a ‘C-’, with only 5.4% in poor condition, better than the national average. However, 63% of bridges are in fair condition, an indication that many more could drop into ‘poor’ condition if they are not continuously invested in and maintained. The state faces a $2.2 billion funding backlog for bridge maintenance alone. ## Energy and Water Infrastructure Energy, schools, and wastewater saw slight declines. Idaho’s energy infrastructure, while still outperforming the national average, is under pressure from rising demand and aging transmission systems. The state currently consumes four times more energy than it produces. Drinking water infrastructure received a grade increase to ‘C+’, reflecting efforts to expand treatment and distribution systems, along with the state’s low frequency of Clean Water Act violations. However, aging infrastructure and changing climate patterns—such as reduced snowpack and earlier runoff—are stressing water availability during peak demand periods. ## Recommendations to Raise the Grades - Establish dedicated, long-term funding for critical infrastructure sectors. - Expand asset management and preventive maintenance to reduce emergency repair costs. - Prioritize resilience and hazard mitigation in infrastructure planning and design. - Strengthen partnerships and regional coordination across all levels of government. - Foster innovation and public engagement to support adoption of new technologies and build public support. Idaho’s improved grade is a sign of progress, but continued investment, planning, and collaboration will be essential to ensure the state’s infrastructure can support future growth and withstand emerging challenges. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20releases%20updated%20resilience%20toolkit%2C%20hosts%20Capitol%20Hill%20briefing&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F09%2Fpathways-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20releases%20updated%20resilience%20toolkit%2C%20hosts%20Capitol%20Hill%20briefing "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Region*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit-2025-update.pdf). The toolkit offers guidance for civil engineers, community leaders, and related stakeholders to adopt and implement up-to-date, modern building codes and standards responsive to extreme weather and environmental threats. As a standards development organization (SDO), ASCE produces design standards that are adopted into building codes and provides unique guidance to each community’s challenges across the globe. Initially released in 2023, the toolkit promotes resilient infrastructure through the adoption of standards, including *[ASCE 7-22, Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Building and Other Structures](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/codes-and-standards/asce-sei-7-22)*. Additionally, the toolkit promotes codes and standards applicable to different disaster events such as floods, earthquakes, wind, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, and winter weather, and explains how each standard can benefit communities vulnerable to these hazards. The revised edition also highlights costs associated with natural disasters and updated standard practices for sustainable infrastructure through [*ASCE 73-23*.](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/codes-and-standards/asce-cos-73-23) ![Four panelists sit at a long conference table in a formal chamber, with an American flag, water bottles, and a laptop nearby.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Pathways-to-Resilient-Communities-Event-Sept-2025-400x300.jpg "Pathways to Resilient Communities Event Sept 2025")Panelists participate in Capitol Hill briefing on September 8 Infrastructure and Resiliency From left to right Tom Smith Executive Director ASCE Jennifer Goupil Chief Resilience Officer ASCE Aaron Davis Deputy Executive Director BuildStrong and Carol Haddock incoming President Elect ASCEIn addition to highlighting ASCE’s standards, the toolkit showcases the [Envision program](https://sustainableinfrastructure.org/envision/about/), operated by the [Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure](https://sustainableinfrastructure.org/) and developed by ASCE, the American Public Works Association (APWA), and the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC). The Envision Program is a comprehensive tool which helps businesses and government design and build civil infrastructure that addresses climate change, public health, environmental justice, and the project’s economic benefits. Envision verification provides an evidence-based approach to demonstrate how a project meets the community’s needs and expectations. To better illustrate *Pathways* purpose and use, ASCE hosted a special briefing this week on Capitol Hill. Panelists explained how updated codes and standards strengthen the built environment against disasters and shared outcomes associated with adoption, including case examples of retrofitted structures. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Colorado%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Maintains%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%98%20grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has released its **2025 Report Card for Colorado’s Infrastructure**, assigning the state an overall grade of **‘C-’**, the same grade as the 2020 report card and one step lower than the national average of **‘C’**. The report card includes 14 infrastructure categories and shows signs of progress and persistent challenges across Colorado’s built environment. While certain sectors, such as **wastewater** and **dams,** showed improvement, three categories (**roads**, **aviation**, and **energy**) saw grade decreases. The report also introduced a new category, **stormwater**, underscoring the growing importance of climate resilience. ## **Colorado Infrastructure Grades** | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B-** | Aviation, Dams, Rail | | **C+** | Bridges | | **C** | Energy, Public Parks, Wastewater | | **C-** | Drinking Water, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Transit | | **D+** | Levees, Schools | ## **Key Findings and Challenges** Colorado’s infrastructure is under increasing strain due to several factors: - **Population Growth:** A 39% increase since 2000 has increased demand for transportation and water systems. - **Aging Infrastructure:** Many assets are over 50 years old and require significant rehabilitation. - **Climate Stressors:** Droughts, wildfires, and extreme weather events are testing the resilience of critical systems. For example, only 34% of Colorado’s roads are in good condition, compared to the national average of 45%. Despite substantial investments, including $5.3 billion in state funding and $3.7 billion in federal support, the state faces a $350 million annual shortfall in transportation funding. Additionally, Colorado’s drinking water infrastructure is projected to face a $10 billion funding gap over the next decade, with a looming 740,000-acre-foot annual water shortfall, the water usage of 250,000 homes, by 2050. ## **Areas of Progress for Colorado’s Infrastructure** Despite these challenges, the report highlights several areas of progress: - **Denver International Airport (DEN)** is expanding to accommodate 100 million passengers annually, supporting over 240,000 jobs and generating $45 billion in annual revenue. - **Bridge conditions** in Colorado are slightly better than the national average, with only 4.8% rated in poor condition. - **Renewable energy** sources now account for 41% of electricity generation, up from 27% in 2020. ## **Recommendations for **Infrastructure** Improvement** ASCE’s report outlines four strategic recommendations to elevate Colorado’s infrastructure grade: 1. **Invest in Asset Management**: Incorporate life-cycle planning and regular condition assessments to prevent failures and protect public health. 2. **Prioritize Resilience**: Adopt modern design standards and frameworks such as Envision to enhance infrastructure durability. 3. **Strengthen Intergovernmental Collaboration**: Foster partnerships across local, state, and federal levels to address complex infrastructure needs. 4. **Engage the Public**: Improve transparency and communication with residents, especially in light of TABOR constraints on public funding decisions. ## **What’s Next?** The 2025 Colorado Infrastructure Report Card serves as a critical tool for policymakers, engineers, and the public to understand the state’s infrastructure and the investments required to ensure its reliability and sustainability. ASCE members utilize state report cards as an advocacy tool to inform federal, state, and local lawmakers about the benefits of infrastructure investment and how reliable infrastructure systems support economic growth, while protecting public health, safety, and welfare. With coordinated action and sustained investment, Colorado can improve its infrastructure from a ‘C-’ to a better grade, and all Coloradoans will benefit from a more resilient and future-ready system. 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released, thanks to the hard work of ASCE members who volunteered their time and energy to research and write the report card, and it brings positive developments. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has awarded Nevada’s infrastructure a ‘**C+’** grade, an improvement from a ‘C’ in the last report card in 2018. This makes Nevada one of only four states to receive a ‘C+ grade, alongside Georgia, Utah, and Wisconsin. #### The Grades Are In Here’s a quick overview of the grades for the eight categories included in the report card: | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B-** | Bridges, Wastewater | | **C+** | Aviation, Energy, Public Parks | | **C** | Roads | | **C-** | Dams, Drinking Water | #### Bridges: Holding Strong Nevada’s bridges have maintained a ‘**B-’** grade. Only 1.5% of the bridges are in poor condition, which is significantly better than the national average of 6.5%. However, with 26% of bridges being over 50 years old, there is a need for ongoing attention and funding to keep this grade high. #### Roads: Steady but Needs More The roads in Nevada have retained a ‘**C’** grade. More than half of the roads are in good or very good condition, which is better than the national average. The state is benefiting from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which is providing $2.8 billion over five years. However, there is a looming $6 billion funding gap for the next decade. #### Energy: Growing Pains Nevada’s energy grade has slightly decreased to a ‘**C+’**. The state is growing, and so is the demand for energy with an increasing population, companies building data centers and the growth of AI computing. While NV Energy has added new projects, the pace of growth is outstripping the development of new energy sources. The good news is that Nevada’s energy distribution system is in relatively good condition. #### Water: Conservation is Key Like many Western states, the reliability and resilience of the water supply remain critical issues, and Nevada’s drinking water systems received a **‘C-’** grade. Nevada is the driest state in the nation, and aggressive water conservation efforts are in place. The Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) has made significant strides in reducing water use and recycling. However, many water facilities are aging and will need significant investment. #### Dams: Improving but Underfunded Dams have seen an improvement to a ‘**C-’** grade, from a ‘D+’ in 2018. The state has conducted extensive work to update the condition information on dams; however, the dam safety program remains underfunded. #### Moving Forward: Recommendations The *2025 Report Card for Nevada’s Infrastructure* includes several recommendations to raise the grades: - **Nevadans should continue to index the state fuel tax to inflation:** While Washoe and Clark Counties have taken positive steps and raised new revenue for transportation infrastructure by indexing their gas taxes, the remaining counties in Nevada should follow suit in future election cycles. Adequate investment in our roads and bridges is critical to ensuring that freight moves seamlessly throughout the state; tourists are easily able to access the parks, casinos and other forms of entertainment; and rural citizens can enjoy the same quality of life as urban residents. - **Increase operations and maintenance budgets as additional infrastructure is added to the network:** Much of Nevada’s infrastructure, particularly in the growing suburbs, is new. We must provide adequate operations and maintenance funding to support the state’s new infrastructure, which will save us costly repairs and replacements down the line. - **Continue to support emerging technologies and foster an attractive culture for innovative companies:** Nevada is leading the way in infrastructure and mobility innovation, including renewable energy, autonomous vehicles, drone technology and transit systems. We should capitalize on progress and continue to support forward-thinking organizations and innovations. The state’s universities should offer energy programs to help meet the rising demand for a workforce with knowledge of alternative and renewable energy production and utilization. - **Develop and implement a new transportation funding** mechanism to compensate for the influx of electric vehicles using Nevada’s roadways. Nevada’s infrastructure is on the right track, but there is still work to be done. By prioritizing investment and planning for the future, we can ensure that our infrastructure remains reliable and resilient. We want to thank all of our members in Nevada who worked on the report card, and the ASCE Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives team is excited to work with you as you present the report card to decision makers and advocate for better infrastructure in the Silver State. 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Workforce](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/building-a-stronger-water-reuse-workforce/) **Published:** July 21, 2025 **Author:** Guest Author **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Case%20for%20Building%20a%20Stronger%20Water%20Reuse%20Workforce&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F07%2Fcdm-smith-water-reuse-blog-featured-scaled.jpeg&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Case%20for%20Building%20a%20Stronger%20Water%20Reuse%20Workforce "Share on 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reuse](https://www.cdmsmith.com/en/client-solutions/focus-areas/water/water-reuse?q&sortby=date&sortorder=desc). However, to continue **to expand water reuse and increase water resilience,** we must address the ongoing shortage of qualified operators, maintenance workers, and process engineers. ## **Demand for Water Reuse Workers** The shortage of workers in the water sector is intensified by rising water demand from AI-driven data centers. One mid-sized data center in the U.S. consumes an average of 300,000 gallons per day—the equivalent of 1,000 homes. With about 25% of the world’s data center servers located in the U.S., the country faces a disproportionate reliance on limited water resources. At the same time, these data centers are also instrumental in driving demand for and acceptance of recycled water. As part of Amazon Web Services (AWS) water stewardship goals, AWS is expanding water reuse at over 120 data centers across the U.S. with the aim to be [water positive by 2030](https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/sustainability/amazon-water-conservation-replenishment-sustainability). This highlights even more the need for investment in water reuse workforce development. **Water reuse—the treatment and repurposing of wastewater, stormwater, or graywater—**is steadily expanding. States like Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, Texas, and Virginia have led the way, particularly in potable reuse, which treats wastewater to meet high purity drinking water standards. Many states have developed guidelines to advance both water reuse and to establish standards for the certification of staff. However, advancing water reuse will require a stronger **focus on workforce development**. Water operators must have a deeper understanding of advanced technologies and regulatory frameworks—expertise that goes beyond on-the-job learning. Skilled, knowledgeable staff are also essential to building and maintaining public trust and [public confidence](https://www.hazenandsawyer.com/articles/public-perceptions-of-direct-potable-reuse-dpr-in-four-u-s-cities) in the ability to deliver safe drinking water is critical to success. Programs like the [Advanced Water Treatment Operator Certification](https://www.awtoperator.org/awto-certification/), offered by the California-Nevada American Water Works Association in conjunction with the California Water Environment Association, provide a pathway to building expertise and public trust. They help develop a workforce with the expertise needed for advanced technologies (e.g., membrane and biological filtration, chemical stabilization, and advanced oxidation) as well as tools like AI and machine learning that can optimize treatment, boost efficiency, and cut costs. While many certifications are currently voluntary, they are expected to become more rigorous as demand grows, raising the bar for the water reuse workforce. Efforts to build **a stronger water reuse workforce** face a significant challenge: the rapidly shrinking pool of qualified water operators. According to 2022 Census Bureau data, nearly 40% of water treatment and wastewater treatment plant operators are aged 50 or older, signaling [a water workforce on the verge of retirement](https://tinyurl.com/3tf5fc9r.). As the supply of experienced operators declines and the demand for specialized expertise grows, coordinated action from both the public and private sectors will be essential. ## **Investing in a Resilient Water Reuse Workforce** To build a **stronger water reuse workforce**, several strategic actions can be taken: - **Policymakers** must elevate water workforce challenges and support opportunities—such as tax incentives, grant funding, and other resources—to strengthen professional development, training, and certification programs. - **Policymakers** also play a key role in building public understanding and trust in water reuse. By championing education and outreach efforts—from early childhood through high school and college—they can not only boost public confidence but also highlight the diverse career opportunities within the sector. - **Public water utilities** can strengthen workforce development by adopting private-sector models to improve targeted outreach at schools and colleges, streamline recruitment processes, and remove barriers—such as restrictive internal hiring rules that limit access to outside expertise. - **Utilities and data centers** can make a significant impact by incorporating training of operations staff into the scope of work for water reuse projects, leveraging the expertise and experience of the engineering firms that lead project delivery, thus ensuring staff are fully equipped to operate recycled water facilities effectively. - **Trade associations** like the [WateReuse Association](https://watereuse.org/) will be central to efforts and must continue advocating for policies, laws, and funding for water reuse initiatives and workforce development needs. - **Engineering firms**, through their engagement with private, public, and community stakeholders, can play a vital role in advancing expertise and new technology, while fostering understanding of water reuse benefits, policies, and workforce needs. With these strategic investments in the water reuse workforce today, we can lay the foundation for a stronger, more water-resilient tomorrow. For more information on CDM Smith’s water reuse experts, projects, and services, please see [**CDM Smith Water Reuse**](https://www.cdmsmith.com/en/client-solutions/focus-areas/water/water-reuse?q&sortby=date&sortorder=desc). *Copyright © 2025 CDM Smith Inc. All rights reserved.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Case%20for%20Building%20a%20Stronger%20Water%20Reuse%20Workforce&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F07%2Fcdm-smith-water-reuse-blog-featured-scaled.jpeg&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Case%20for%20Building%20a%20Stronger%20Water%20Reuse%20Workforce "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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(dark green), Mezzanine Debt (teal), Senior Debt (navy), and Government Contributions (light blue); each block has a brief explanatory caption on the right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/capital-stack-400x400.png "capital-stack")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/capital-stack.png)In the 2025 Report Card, the American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE) estimates a [$3.7 trillion investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Executive-Summary-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf) for U.S infrastructure to reach a state of good repair, assuming Congress continues recent funding levels. As such, sponsors of infrastructure projects will need to innovate and look to diversify funding and financing sources beyond federal spending to close this investment gap. A typical capital stack for an infrastructure project includes different types of funding and financing to fund project’s development, construction, and operations. As shown in the illustrative capital stack figure, federal and state government contributions provide project funding and help to attract investment to projects but typically cannot provide the sole source of financing. State funding and municipal bonds constitute another major part of the infrastructure capital stack. For instance, in 2021, state and local spending on highways and roads was [three times that of federal spending](https://www.urban.org/policy-centers/cross-center-initiatives/state-and-local-finance-initiative/state-and-local-backgrounders/highway-and-road-expenditures). States are increasingly exploring other financing mechanisms to fund infrastructure within their jurisdictions, such as new financing vehicles and loan programs. To diversify funding and financing sources across the capital stack, project sponsors can leverage different mechanisms and programs such as these state financing vehicles, as well as through public private partnerships (P3s) and value capture opportunities. **States** may consider developing their own loan (senior debt) and grant (government contributions) programs to fund state-specific infrastructure projects. States may develop low-interest loan programs to encourage the construction of infrastructure within their states, which could also attract and leverage other forms of financing from the capital stack through the reduction of project risk having a state government-backed loan with a lower cost of financing. Various states also have state infrastructure banks that provide low-interest loans to borrowers, such as the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank administered by the [State Road and Tollway Authority](https://srta.ga.gov/gtib/) (SRTA). Infrastructure projects can also consider **P3s** to help address investment gaps. A P3 is a long-term contractual relationship between a public sponsor (e.g., the government) and a private entity to provide a defined list of services on behalf of the public sponsor. In a P3 arrangement, the public sponsor transfers risks and responsibilities to the private partner in exchange for either a recurring payment (e.g., availability payment for a utility system) or the right to collect revenues from the public (e.g., toll roads or energy user fees). In a P3, the public sponsor retains strategic control over the asset and service delivery. Adoption of a P3 can provide an option for the public sector to accelerate delivery of infrastructure ahead of budgeting cycles and free up limited public resources for other strategic initiatives. Contingent on the structure of the agreement, P3s may also public debt concerns by leveraging private financing (debt, equity) in lieu of traditional public bonds. In certain cases, the contract structure could also include an upfront payment (based on calculations of leveraged efficiencies from the private sector) which provides a public sponsor with a cash influx to address short-term funding gaps for other initiatives and projects. Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation (PennDOT) developed their Rapid Bridge Replacement program as a P3 and serves as an example of leveraging private sector efficiency. The [P3 program repaired 558 bridges](https://www.trccompanies.com/projects/moving-fast-to-fix-the-keystone-states-bridges/) in four years, which might have taken [more than a decade](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/project_profiles/pa_rapid_bridge.aspx) to repair otherwise. **Value capture** is another option for financing infrastructure. Value capture is the concept that infrastructure improvements create economic value that both the public and private sectors can “capture” from new infrastructure projects. Typical direct value capture methods transfer economic value from users of the asset/service to the operating entity (user fees, fuel tax, transportation network fees). Indirect value capture methods are financial agreements and mechanisms that allow sponsors to capture future economic value generated indirectly by an asset (tax increment financing, sales taxes, special assessments, etc.). For example, The City of Atlanta (Atlanta) financed multimodal infrastructure improvements by leveraging value capture instruments such as defining a special assessment district and using transportation special-purpose [local option sales tax revenues](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/pdfs/value_capture/case_studies/Case_Study_5th_Street_Clean_Street_in_Atlanta.pdf). The figure below highlights the value that new infrastructure projects can create, which can be “captured” and monetized. [![Line graph of project value over time, comparing value captured by public and private sectors across planning, construction, and operations.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/opportunities-for-value-capture-400x203.png "opportunities-for-value-capture")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/opportunities-for-value-capture.png)Opportunities for Value Capture from Private and Public Infrastructure SponsorsIn the years to come, diverse funding sources and innovative financing strategies have the potential to play a crucial role in bridging the investment gap and supporting the sustainable and continued development of infrastructure projects across the US. Project developers and government can consider the approaches outlined above to leverage additional funding and financing opportunities in the future. For more information on Deloitte’s Infrastructure advisory services, please visit: - [Infrastructure Advisory Focus Areas and Services \| Deloitte US](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/public-sector/solutions/infrastructure-services.html) - [Public Infrastructure and Capital Projects Eminence \| Deloitte US](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/public-sector/solutions/government-infrastructure-services.html) *This blog contains general information only and Deloitte is not, by means of this blog, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This blog is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor.* *Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this blog.* *As used in this blog, “Deloitte” means Deloitte Transactions and Business Analytics LLP, a subsidiary of Deloitte LLP. Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of our legal structure. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting.* *Copyright © 2025 Deloitte Development LLC. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Building%20America%E2%80%99s%20Future%3A%20Why%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Matters%20Now%20More%20Than%20Ever&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*By: Ben Pickett, Executive Vice President, Business Services Nucor Corporation* For nearly six decades, Nucor has played a foundational role in building America—literally. As the largest steel producer in the United States, Nucor is responsible for more than one-quarter of the nation’s steel production. Roughly half of that steel goes directly into nonresidential construction and infrastructure projects. From coast to coast, our recycled steel has been used in everything from roads and bridges to ports, levees, airports, stadiums, and the energy grid. It’s no exaggeration to say that Nucor steel is the backbone of American infrastructure. But high-quality infrastructure doesn’t just support our business—it supports the entire economy. Every year, we recycle 20 million tons of scrap metal, and we rely on a robust network of roads, railways, and waterways to move that material to our mills and deliver finished products to customers. Without reliable infrastructure, none of this would be possible. That’s why we believe it’s just common sense that the materials used to rebuild America should be made in America. Investing in domestic manufacturing and infrastructure isn’t just good for the steel industry—it’s good for our economy, our national security, and our future. #### Reshoring Manufacturing Requires Modern Infrastructure In recent years, there’s been a renewed focus on reshoring manufacturing. In 2025 alone, hundreds of billions of dollars have been committed to bringing advanced manufacturing back to America. This is a promising trend, but it comes with a caveat: we can’t bring manufacturing home if we don’t have the infrastructure to support it. It’s not just about roads and bridges. Reshoring requires a reliable energy grid, sufficient electricity generation, and modern transmission and pipeline networks. Without these, new manufacturing facilities can’t operate at full capacity—or at all. #### A Long-Term Commitment to Infrastructure The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) was a strong first step toward rebuilding our outdated infrastructure. But one-time funding isn’t enough. We need a long-term, sustained commitment to infrastructure investment if we’re serious about building a modern economy. Earlier this year, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave America’s infrastructure a grade of “C.” While that’s an improvement from previous years, it’s still mediocre—and mediocrity isn’t good enough. Our country can’t compete globally with average infrastructure. We should be aiming for A’s across the board. We all have a role to play in advocating for better infrastructure. That means urging our elected officials to prioritize long-term funding and planning. It also means supporting policies that streamline the permitting process so that critical projects don’t get bogged down in red tape. #### Real-World Impact: Infrastructure That Matters Nucor’s steel has been used in [countless infrastructure projects](https://nucor.com/featured-projects) that have improved America’s competitiveness, security, and quality of life. Our Nucor-Yamato mill in Arkansas produces structural steel beams for bridges, schools, hospitals, stadiums and more. After Hurricane Katrina, our steel was used to help rebuild the levee system around New Orleans—an essential project for the city’s resilience. More recently, our steel has been used in the construction of the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles and the One World Trade Center in New York. New airport terminals in San Francisco, Cincinnati, Columbus, JFK, and LaGuardia used Nucor steel in their construction. Aviation infrastructure is vital to our economy and our daily lives, yet it received a D+ on the ASCE’s latest report card. That’s unacceptable. We’re proud to contribute to the future of aviation, but we know there’s still a lot of work to do. #### What’s Next: A Smarter Surface Transportation Bill Looking ahead, the reauthorization of the surface transportation bill is a critical opportunity. We believe it should maintain the higher funding levels established by the IIJA and include reforms to streamline permitting. Projects take far too long to get off the ground, which drives up costs and delays progress. We can fix this without compromising safety or environmental standards. America’s future depends on strong infrastructure. Let’s build it—together. 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--- ### [DOGE looms large as Congress begins marking up Fiscal Year 2026 funding bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/doge-looms-large-as-congress-begins-marking-up-fiscal-year-2026-funding-bills/) **Published:** July 18, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=DOGE%20looms%20large%20as%20Congress%20begins%20marking%20up%20Fiscal%20Year%202026%20funding%20bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With government funding set to expire on September 30th, the appropriations committees in Congress are working to finalize government spending levels for the coming fiscal year. Traditionally a bipartisan process, the negotiations surrounding Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 appropriations have been colored by the Trump administration’s focus on eliminating what it views as government “waste, fraud and abuse.” This focus on government inefficiencies has led to the creation of the ‘Department of Government Efficiency’ and significant staffing and programmatic reductions across the federal government. However, the administration has faced challenges because annual spending for the entire federal government is constitutionally required to be set by the U.S. Congress and is beyond the control of the White House. In response, the Trump administration has been working closely with its allies on Capitol Hill to enshrine his cost-cutting agenda through the reconciliation process, crafting large rescission proposals, and proposing sweeping reductions to government programs in the 2026 budget he delivered to Congress earlier this year. These budget-cutting moves have been successful to date, but the reaction by appropriators to President Trump’s proposed cuts to FY26 funding has been mixed, as evidenced by the appropriations legislation coming out of the U.S. House and Senate. Below is a summary of the status of several funding bills relevant to civil engineering: ### **House** #### Commerce, Justice, Science In the House, the Appropriations Committee released its Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS) [funding bill](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/committee-releases-fy26-commerce-justice-science-and-related-agencies) on July 14th. Overall, the bill cuts funding for science by 6% compared to FY25, but some agencies are facing greater cutbacks than others. For example, the bill provides $24.8 billion for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), an amount equal to the level of FY25 enacted, while the National Science Foundation (NSF) would receive $7 billion, $2.06 billion (23%) below the FY25 enacted level. Within the Department of Commerce, the bill would provide $1.28 billion for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which is $122.843 million (11%) above the FY25 level. For the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the legislation provides $5.8 billion, $387 million (6%) below the current level. Finally, the bill provides the Economic Development Administration with $324.5 million, $143.5 million (31%) below the FY25 enacted level. #### Energy and Water On Thursday, the House Appropriations Committee marked up its E[nergy and Water Development and Related Agencies](https://democrats-appropriations.house.gov/events/markups/fiscal-year-2026-transportation-housing-and-urban-development-and-related-agencies-0) bill, which provides a total funding level of $57.3 billion. That includes $24.1 billion for non-defense programs, $675 million below the enacted level. The bill does support water resources projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) by providing $2.6 billion for USACE’s construction account- an increase of more than $700 million from FY 25, but only provides $5 million for USACE’s WIFIA program, which supports non-federal dam safety projects, $2 million below the enacted level. It also cuts the Department of Energy’s Office of Electricity by $55 million and the Grid Deployment Office by $35 million. #### Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies The House Appropriations Committee also [released text](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/simpson-cole-fy26-interior-and-environment-subcommittee-markup) for the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies appropriations bill. With an overall funding level of $38 billion, it is $2.9 billion lower than the FY 25 enacted level. The bill provides $2.9 billion for wildfire suppression operations and $900 million for the Land & Water Conservation Fund. However, the bill also cuts funding for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) by 23% ($2.1 billion) from the enacted level, including more than $660 million cut from the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs. This week, ASCE joined several organizations in sending a letter to House and Senate Appropriators supporting funding for water infrastructure programs, including the SRF programs, as well as funding to address emerging contaminants, support resilience measures, and provide technical assistance for small communities. #### Transportation, Housing and Urban Development On July 17th, the House Appropriations Committee approved its [FY 2026 Transportation,](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/committee-approves-fy26-transportation-housing-and-urban-development) Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) spending bill. The committee approved the legislation by 35-28 vote. The legislation provides about $105 billion in total budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation (DOT), which reflects $22.1 billion in discretionary funding and $83.3 billion in obligation limitation for highway and airport trust fund programs. The bill’s discretionary total of $22.1 billion is $3.1 billion below the FY 2025 enacted level and $4.7 billion below the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) request. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would receive a boost under the legislation, with $23.3 billion in total budgetary resources. Approximately $10.4 billion would be directed toward air traffic control operations and efforts to hire 2,500 air traffic controllers. The bill includes $64.4 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), which is $1.9 billion above the FY 2025 enacted level. Over $63.3 billion would be directed to Highway Trust Fund programs, while $415 million would go toward other infrastructure needs, including Tribal transportation services and truck parking projects. At $3.1 billion in total budgetary resources, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) would receive slightly more than the FY 2025 enacted level. Of this amount, $2.3 billion would be directed to Amtrak and $538 million would be appropriated to the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program. Both the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Maritime Administration (MARAD) would receive budgetary resources at lower levels than they did in FY 2025, with $14.9 billion and $828 million, respectively. The legislation includes $514 million for the Essential Air Service program. It does not provide additional appropriations for the National Infrastructure Project Assistance (Mega) program or the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program (now known as Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development), both of which received advanced appropriations from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The bill transfers funding from the IIJA to other purposes, including $1 billion from the FHWA’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program that would be redirected to FAA facilities and equipment. During the markup, committee members approved an amendment from Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY) that would prohibit federal funds from going toward New York City’s congestion pricing program or similar efforts under FHWA’s Value Pricing Pilot Program. ### **Senate** On July 17th, the Senate Committee on Appropriations approved its [FY 2026 Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations Act](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/majority/senate-committee-approves-fy-2026-commerce-justice-and-science-appropriations-bill) by a vote of 19-10. If signed into law, the measure would provide $79.7 billion in discretionary funding to support law enforcement, scientific research, and other initiatives. Despite being controlled by members of President Trump’s party, the spending levels approved by Senate appropriators are a clear departure from the proposals suggested in the president’s budget. While President Trump called for Congress to cut the budget for NIST by 30 percent in FY 2026, the CJS bill would provide $1.6 billion for NIST to help maintain U.S. leadership in fields such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Similarly, under the Senate’s proposed bill, NOAA would receive $6.1 billion, and experience only $40 million reduction from its top-line FY25 funding levels. This reduction is considerably less than the 27 percent cut, roughly $1.7 billion, proposed by the Trump administration. Included within the overall funding number are $1.6 billion for NOAA’s Procurement, Acquisition and Construction account and $4.5 billion for its Operations, Research, and Facilities account, which would provide full operational funding for the National Weather Service in the coming Fiscal year. The committee also approved $24.9 billion for NASA and $9 billion for the NSF. These agencies faced funding cuts of 24 percent and 56 percent, respectively, under the president’s budget proposal. Senate appropriators rejected this suggestion and opted to maintain steady funding levels in the coming fiscal year, in order to preserve U.S. leadership in scientific research and innovation. ASCE’s government relations team will continue to monitor the latest developments on Fiscal Year 2026 funding as they develop. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20T%26I%20advances%20Clean%20Water%20Act%20permitting%20reform%20package&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last month, the [House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee (T&I) held a markup session](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=408793) to consider a package of bills related to project permitting under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The package, [H.R. 3898](https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3898), the Promoting Efficient Review for Modern Infrastructure Today (PERMIT) Act, includes [more than a dozen bills](https://transportation.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408758) introduced with the stated goal to “cut red tape, streamlining reviews, and provide greater regulatory certainty under *Clean Water Act* permitting processes, Much of the proposed legislation intends to reduce regulations surrounding project permits under sections 401 and 404 of the CWA. Section 401 allows states to deny permits for projects that produce discharges into waterways that would adversely affect water quality, while Section 404 requires project permits for the discharge of dredge and fill materials into waterways. If signed into law, the bill would exempt waste treatment systems, groundwater, and ephemeral streams from CWA regulations; set parameters to limit states’ authority to deny Section 401 permits; require Section 404 permit applications to be fully reviewed before denial, and prohibit the withdrawal of a Section 404 permit once it has been approved; and establish a 60 day window to challenge Section 404 permit in court once it has been approved. The final package was approved along party lines [by a vote of 34-30](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/PW/PW00/20250625/118391/CRPT-119-PW00-Vote060-20250625.pdf). More than 20 amendments to the package were offered, with nearly all also passing on party-line votes. While committee Republicans praised the package as an important step toward needed reforms to project permitting, [Ranking Democrat Rick Larsen (D-WA) said](https://democrats-transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/ranking-member-larsen-statement-on-markup-of-republican-pro-pollution-package-of-water-bills) that if enacted, it “put polluters over people by weakening Clean Water Act protections for the nation’s rivers, streams, lakes and wetlands.” The PERMIT Act now awaits a vote by the full House of Representatives. The package represents the latest effort by Republicans in Congress and the Trump Administration to amend permitting provisions under the CWA to streamline project approval. In February, the House T&I Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment [dedicated its first hearing](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=408197) of the 119th Congress to CWA permitting reform. The subcommittee’s Chairman, Representative Mike Collins (R-GA), stated in that hearing that the law had been used to “slow or stop progress on important projects.” ASCE [submitted a statement for the record](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2025-02-11-asce_statement_for_record_house_transportation_hearing_-clean_water_act_permitting.pdf) to the subcommittee arguing for the importance of renewing the CWA and taking an aggressive approach to addressing non-point source pollution from discharges such as urban and road runoff and agricultural activity. In 2020, the first Trump Administration issued a final rule limiting the scope of state’s authority to certify water quality under CWA Section 401 permitting regulations. This rule was later revised by the Biden Administration in 2022. Further attention to the CWA is expected in the coming weeks and months. In May, the [Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a memorandum](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-reinforces-alignment-clean-water-act-section-401-powering-great-american-comeback) outlining the administration’s view that states are only able to consider direct negative impacts to water quality when issuing CWA certifications for Section 401 permits. EPA has indicated that it will also address these issues through future guidance and rulemaking. This followed EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin’s [announcement in March](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/administrator-zeldin-announces-epa-will-revise-waters-united-states-rule) that the agency would soon issue a new rule revising the definition of “Waters of the United States” that governs which waterways are subject to CWA regulations. EPA stated this revised rule would “follows the law, reduces red-tape, cuts overall permitting costs, and lowers the cost of doing business in communities across the country while protecting the nation’s navigable waters from pollution.” ASCE will continue to monitor ongoing developments surrounding the Clean Water Act, as well as reforms to the permitting policy for projects. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20T%26I%20advances%20Clean%20Water%20Act%20permitting%20reform%20package&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized **Tags:** Drinking Water, water infrastructure --- ### [Ohio’s Infrastructure Gets a Boost: 2025 Report Card Shows Progress, But Challenges Remain](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ohios-infrastructure-gets-a-boost-2025-report-card-shows-progress-but-challenges-remain/) **Published:** June 25, 2025 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Ohio%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20a%20Boost%3A%202025%20Report%20Card%20Shows%20Progress%2C%20But%20Challenges%20Remain&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Ohio Council of Sections has released its [2025 Report Card for Ohio’s Infrastructure,](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/ohio/) and there’s a bit of good news: Ohio’s overall grade has improved to a **‘C’**, up from a **‘C-’** in 2021. That puts the Buckeye State on par with the national average, according to ASCE’s recently released national report. The Ohio Council of Sections released their report at the state capitol building in Columbus, Ohio. In addition the report card committee, speakers included State Rep. Michele Grim – Ranking Member of House Transportation Committee; State Sen. Tim Schaffer – Chair of Senate Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee; and Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells – CEO of Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District. The report evaluates 17 categories of infrastructure, from roads and bridges to drinking water and rail systems. While some areas are showing signs of progress, others still need serious attention. ![Group of professionals in business attire posing in a government building lobby with wooden paneling, a portrait on the wall, and an American flag nearby, with a digital screen in the center showing a blue Ohio infrastructure banner.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Committee-400x300.jpg "Committee") **Highlights from the Report** - **Top Performers**: Rail and Solid Waste both earned a **‘B-’**, the highest grades in the report. - **Room for Improvement**: Inland Waterways received the lowest grade, a **‘D’**, highlighting the need for urgent investment. - **New Addition**: Aviation was evaluated for the first time and received a **‘C-’**. Six categories saw their grades improve, including Hazardous Waste, Levees, Ports, Public Parks, Roads, and Transit, while four—Energy, Inland Waterways, Rail, and Schools—experienced declines. **Roads and Bridges: A Mixed Bag** Ohio’s roads improved slightly to a **‘D+’**, matching the national average. Interstate highways have seen significant upgrades, with over 70% now in good condition—double the rate from a decade ago. However, poor road conditions still cost Ohio drivers an estimated **$14.4 billion** annually. Bridges held steady at a **‘C+’**, outperforming the national average. Still, with over 22,000 bridges expected to reach 75 years of service by 2050, the state must ramp up its rehabilitation efforts. More than 80% of ODOT funding comes from federal and state fuel taxes, which are losing purchasing power as road construction and labor costs increase, and drivers switch to more fuel efficient or electric vehicles. The state has responded to some funding concerns by adding registration fees for hybrid and electric vehicles to make up for the money those drivers would have paid in gas taxes. **Rail Safety in the Spotlight** The 2023 train derailment in East Palestine was a stark reminder of the risks associated with freight rail. The incident led to the removal of **167,000 tons of contaminated soil** and **39 million gallons of water**, raising public health concerns. The vulnerabilities exposed by this incident, in addition to continued accidents at railroad crossings, caused Ohio’s rail grade to drop from a **‘B’** to a **‘B-’**. **Water Systems Under Pressure** Ohio’s drinking water and wastewater systems remain underfunded and outdated. Both systems are struggling with aging infrastructure, frequent water main breaks, and the presence of harmful lead service lines endangering public health. The state needs nearly **$16 billion** in clean water improvements for wastewater systems to meet federal standards. **Recommendations for the Future** To continue improving, the ASCE recommends Ohio focus on: - **Investment**: Address maintenance backlogs and modernize aging systems. - **Safety**: Prioritize public health and safety across all infrastructure sectors. - **Resilience**: Prepare for climate-related threats and other hazards. - **Technology**: Embrace innovation to enhance efficiency and sustainability. - **Capacity**: Upgrade systems to meet future demand and support economic growth. **Why It Matters** “Infrastructure impacts every Ohioan, every day,” said Charles Sawyer, P.E., chair of the 2025 Report Card for Ohio’s Infrastructure. “This report card is a call to action to ensure our systems are safe, resilient, and ready for the future.” 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infrastructureinvestment, rail, saferoads --- ### [Utah's 2025 Infrastructure Report Card: A Mix of Progress and Challenges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/utahs-2025-infrastructure-report-card-progress-and-challenges/) **Published:** May 30, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Utah%E2%80%99s%202025%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20Mix%20of%20Progress%20and%20Challenges&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On May 29th, the Utah Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released the [*2025 Report Card for Utah’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/utah/ "Utah") at the state capitol building in Salt Lake City. The results are a blend of progress and ongoing challenges. The report assigns a cumulative grade of ‘C+’ to Utah’s infrastructure, maintaining the same grade as the previous report card in 2020. This grade is notable as Utah is one of only three states to achieve a ‘C+’, the highest grade ASCE has ever assigned to a state’s infrastructure. Georgia and Wisconsin are the other states with a ‘C+’ grade. This is the first state report card issued since the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure,* where the national infrastructure grade improved to a ‘C’. ### **Aviation Takes Off, But Bridges and Transit Face Turbulence** Utah’s aviation infrastructure was the only category to see an improvement, while bridges, stormwater, and transit experienced declines. The grades for each category are as follows: | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B+** | Roads | | **B** | Bridges | | **B-** | Drinking Water, Solid Waste, Transit | | **C+** | Aviation, Dams, Hazardous Waste | | **C** | Stormwater, Wastewater | | **D+** | Canals | | **D-** | Levees | Craig Friant, PE, chair of the 2025 Report Card for Utah’s Infrastructure, emphasized the importance of proactive solutions to address the challenges posed by a growing population and frequent droughts. “Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the country, and state leaders have taken steps to ensure the reliability of infrastructure systems as more people move here to enjoy Utah’s thriving communities, amazing outdoors, and high quality of life,” Friant said. “However, a growing population and more frequent droughts also mean our water supply faces ongoing threats. While Utahns have drastically reduced their water usage, there are ongoing challenges, and leaders need to be proactive with solutions.” ### ### **Investments in Roads and Bridges** Utah’s roads received a ‘B+’ grade, significantly higher than the national ‘D+’. This high grade is attributed to the largest investment ever in Utah’s transportation funding, with over $14 billion committed to upgrades and new construction over the next six years. Approximately 95 percent of roads in the state are in good or fair condition, thanks to proactive maintenance on the state’s most-traveled highways. However, Utah’s bridges saw a one-step grade decrease to a ‘B’. Despite being higher than the national bridge grade of ‘C’, the data indicates worsening conditions. However, some recently completed bridge projects may not be included in the latest available data. The percentage of bridges in good condition dropped from 38 percent in 2020 to 22 percent in 2024. Rapid increases in construction costs and an aging bridge inventory are contributing factors. Approximately 35 percent of bridges in Utah are more than 50 years old, and at the current pace, it would take more than a century to replace all existing bridges in the state. ### **Water Supply and Flood Management** Utah’s drinking water grade remains unchanged at a ‘B-’. While Utahns have reduced home water usage by 20 percent over the last two decades, ongoing drought conditions and increased demand are stressing existing water sources. The Utah State Water Plan estimates that needed improvements and repairs to the state’s water infrastructure will total $38 billion between now and 2060. Intense storms and flooding events are also testing the state’s dams, levees, and canals. The grade for Utah’s dams remained a ‘C+’, with only 52 percent of high-hazard potential dams in satisfactory condition. Utah’s levees received the lowest grade on the report card, a ‘D-’, the same grade as in 2020. These levees protect more than $13 billion worth of property and infrastructure, including densely populated communities and key facilities like Salt Lake City International Airport. Utah’s canals, which received a ‘D+’ grade, are also part of the state’s flood management plan. Many of Utah’s levees and canals were constructed before modern construction standards were implemented, and there is limited information available on their design, construction methods, and current condition. ### **Aviation Infrastructure Improvement** Utah’s investment in aviation infrastructure helped increase the category grade to a ‘C+’, a one-step improvement from the 2020 report card. The new terminal at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) has prepared Utah’s biggest airport for the future. In 2023, nearly 13 million people boarded planes at SLC, and upon completion in 2027, the airport will be capable of handling 34 million passengers annually. ### **Recommendations for Improvement** The 2025 Report Card for Utah’s Infrastructure includes several recommendations to raise the grades: 1. **Planning for the Future**: Conduct regular, comprehensive analyses of future infrastructure needs, especially for water resources, canals, transportation, transit, and waste management. Provide consistent, reliable funding to support improvements, maintenance, resiliency, and risk reduction. 2. **Prioritize Funding for Bridges**: Increase the number of bridge replacement projects and create ongoing, dedicated funding sources to preserve, rehabilitate, or replace aging bridges. 3. **Focus on Future Water Needs**: Maximize the use of available water resources and collaborate with state agencies and stakeholders to restore the Great Salt Lake to healthy conditions. Strengthen canal infrastructure through funding for transitioning from open channel to piping, reducing losses from seepage and evaporation. 4. **Increase Dam Safety Funding**: Increase funding to $10 million annually to rehabilitate all high-hazard dams within 50 years. An increase to $20 million per year would enable faster repairs, completing all required repairs in 25 years. We want to thank every ASCE member who volunteered their time and energy to make the release of the *2025 Report Card for Utah’s Infrastructure* a success! State report cards are an all-volunteer effort and are one of ASCE’s most valuable advocacy tools to help ensure communities have safe and reliable infrastructure to keep the economy moving and to ensure public health, safety, and welfare. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Utah%E2%80%99s%202025%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20Mix%20of%20Progress%20and%20Challenges&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F05%2Fut-report-card-2025-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Utah%E2%80%99s%202025%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3A%20A%20Mix%20of%20Progress%20and%20Challenges "Share on 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transportation, Utah, water infrastructure --- ### [How AEC Companies Are Leveraging Unreal Engine](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/unreal-engine-3d-modeling-unreal-engine-5/) **Published:** May 21, 2025 **Author:** Guest Author **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=How%20AEC%20Companies%20Are%20Leveraging%20Unreal%20Engine&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F05%2Fepic-blog-images-1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=How%20AEC%20Companies%20Are%20Leveraging%20Unreal%20Engine "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=How%20AEC%20Companies%20Are%20Leveraging%20Unreal%20Engine&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Unreal Engine 5, the world’s most open and advanced real-time 3D tool, is helping companies like [Pennoni](https://www.pennoni.com/), [Geopogo](https://www.geopogo.com/), and [Smart Spatial](https://www.smartspatial.com/) deliver cutting-edge visuals and interactive experiences that bridge conceptual design and real-world execution. We spoke to the teams behind the scenes to discover how [Unreal Engine](http://www.unrealengine.com) is bringing value to their stakeholders, clients, and surrounding communities. ## Real-World Applications of Unreal Engine 5 At a recent [ASCE event](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-release-event/), Pennoni shared how the game engine is helping their visual effects division (PFX Studios) communicate feasibility studies and win infrastructure business. “With UE5, we can render elaborate shots in a fraction of the time that it would have taken in our previous software while staying lightweight in file size and computing performance, so clients can see their designs evolve in real time,” says Joseph Spadea, PE, Associate VP at Pennoni. “With built-in version control in the engine, we can also have multiple people working within one project without anyone stepping on another’s toes or overwriting progress.” ![Green suspension bridge over calm water with a container ship passing beneath it. The ship carries stacked colorful shipping containers.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PennoniStill02-400x211.jpg "PennoniStill02")Image courtesy of Pennoni AssociatesSimilarly, Smart Spatial, a startup that aims to revolutionize industry standards governing how people interact with physical infrastructure, uses Unreal Engine to create real-time digital twins of complex operational and commercial environments. By [pixel streaming](https://dev.epicgames.com/documentation/unreal-engine/pixel-streaming-in-unreal-engine) real-world data and high-fidelity 3D applications directly to clients without any heavy-duty hardware, they’re serving customers in ways that make immediate sense to them. “Whether it’s a data center or a railway control hub, our customers can see a spatially accurate digital twin of their facility—using their browser or even a phone—and they immediately ‘get it’,” says Dennis Khvostionov, Chief Technology Officer at Smart Spatial. “We can bring 3D to life in ways that were simply not possible just a few years ago and can interact with data like never before.” ![Wide view of a yellow arched railway station with platform columns and a red-and-white Ethiopian Railways train on tracks under a clear blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SmartSpatial-EDR-2-400x225.png "SmartSpatial EDR (2)")Image courtesy of Smart Spatial IncMike Hoppe, Creative Director at Geopogo, who focuses on democratizing and expanding the frontiers of technology with their COTS product *Geopogo Cities*, also says that real-time technology is changing the way they interact with users. “Unreal Engine 5 tackles significant challenges for us, especially in visualization and presentation. Previously, rendering photorealistic, large-scale architectural models was a slow, resource-heavy task,” says Hoppe. “With UE5’s real-time rendering and optimization tools, we—and our *Geopogo Cities* users—can now visualize sprawling urban environments effortlessly, even at scale.” ![Futuristic city skyline with tall glass skyscrapers and a complex network of elevated highways weaving through the streets.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Geopogo-Dubai1-400x225.png "Geopogo Dubai1")Image courtesy of Geopogo## The Impact of Unreal Engine on Civil Engineering So what impact is this technology having on the business of engineering and construction? According to Hoppe, Unreal Engine 5 is providing a distinct competitive edge. “Working with a real-time engine allows for scalability that fuels innovation and delivers faster. At the same time, it communicates ideas clearly and persuasively to clients, engineers, and decision-makers, accelerating approvals and fostering collaboration.” Khvostionov knows that Smart Spatial using a game engine to solve complex infrastructure problems is something that most of the industry doesn’t yet understand. “That gives us a unique position in the market, especially as firms race to modernize with shrinking talent pools and aging infrastructure,” he says. “UE delivers fast, beautiful, and functionally powerful solutions that others simply can’t replicate with traditional tools.” Spadea agrees. “Not only has our adoption of Unreal given us an edge on other competitors, but we have also been working with our clients and partners to train them within Unreal after seeing our work.” Hoppe adds that UE5’s real-time rendering and scalability enables them to deliver a more visually captivating and technically sound product. “This attracts clients and reinforces trust in our capacity to tackle ambitious, larger-scale projects, keeping us ahead in the market.” For the wider industry, Unreal Engine is playing a vital role in helping government entities like DOTs make informed decisions on designs and how they will be implemented within communities, bridging the divide between technical plans and public comprehension. “For taxpayers, it transforms abstract site plans and engineering jargon into vivid, interactive 3D visualizations, clarifying what their votes — or tax dollars — support, from transit hubs to parks and urban redevelopment projects,” says Hoppe. “By replacing 2D drawings and limited-viewpoint renderings with dynamic, 3D digital twins and unlimited perspectives, the UE5 component of *Geopogo Cities* fosters confidence, empowering taxpayers to envision the future of their communities and the tangible impact of infrastructure investments.” Khvostionov emphasizes that the use of real-time technology goes beyond cool visuals. “Unreal Engine helps infrastructure projects become more transparent and efficient,” he says. “That means fewer delays, smarter budgeting, and more accountable spending. It also helps government stakeholders, and the public truly *see* what’s being proposed or built. And from a workforce perspective, it’s critical. Many facility managers are aging out, and tools like UE help attract and train the next generation.” Spadea also sees the value of real-time technology in the infrastructure space.” When we show clients, projects made using UE that are similar to their needs, they are often surprised, as they assume the technology is only used for game development. By demonstrating how Pennoni leverages Unreal Engine to produce final-pixel quality visuals in a fraction of the time compared to traditional workflows — without the need for a massive budget — we’re not just helping them,” Spadea says. “We believe it is helping the industry as a whole, and that the future with Unreal Engine 5 is very exciting.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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FEMA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-future-of-fema/) **Published:** May 15, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20future%20of%20FEMA&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F04%2Ffema-blog-feat-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20future%20of%20FEMA "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F04%2Ffema-blog-feat-image.png&description=The%20future%20of%20FEMA "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20future%20of%20FEMA "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20future%20of%20FEMA&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A bipartisan group of House members, including the Chair and Ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, are sharing a [sweeping draft bill](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/fema_discussion_draft_text.pdf) to overhaul the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The draft will join more than a dozen bills already introduced in the 119th Congress to reform all or parts of FEMA. However, being introduced by the leadership of a Committee with broad jurisdiction over FEMA, this bill becomes the most likely vehicle for FEMA reforms. The bill is being shared as President Trump has made cuts to FEMA and stated he intends to further shrink or abolish it. Recently, F[EMA cancelled the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fema-ends-bric-program/), a multibillion-dollar grant program for states to protect against natural disasters. A move that has drawn widespread and bipartisan opposition. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chair Sam Graves (R-MO) and Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-WA) released their discussion draft entitled The Fixing Emergency Management for Americans (FEMA) Act of 2025. As a discussion draft – the bill has not been formally introduced – it is intended to solicit feedback from Members of Congress, emergency management stakeholders, and others. In a press release, Graves and Larson stated the legislation would streamline the federal government’s disaster response and recovery programs, while also making FEMA a cabinet-level agency once again and directly accountable to the President. The bill also rewards effective state and local preparedness, cuts red tape, and ensures that relief efforts are fast, fair, and free from political bias. Established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter in response to the bureaucratic chaos exposed by Hurricane Agnes and the Three Mile Island nuclear incident, FEMA consolidated over 100 programs under a single mission – coherent, coordinated and more effective disaster relief. That mission has evolved over time and, after being absorbed into the newly formed Department of Homeland Security in 2003, FEMA became the main arm of national emergency preparedness. Among the changes in the draft, FEMA could pay for major repairs to homes damaged in disasters, instead of only temporary repairs. The agency would also be able to penalize states that do not try to mitigate disasters. Other major shifts include removing FEMA from the Department of Homeland Security and making it an independent agency reporting directly to the president. Among the stated goals of the draft are: - **Increased State Empowerment:** The act aims to shift the focus from a slow, bureaucratic rebuilding process to faster, project-based grants, allowing states to set the pace of recovery and prioritize needs. - **Transparency and Accountability:** It calls for a centralized public website to track disaster funding, a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review of FEMA regulations, and a review of identity theft and disaster fraud risks. - **Faster Recovery:** The act proposes reforms to streamline permitting, reduce reliance on costly consultants, and incentivize states to make their own investments in mitigation and insurance. - **Addressing Lingering Disaster Declarations:** A Recovery Task Force will be established to close out over 1,000 pending disaster declarations, potentially dating back to Hurricane Katrina. - **Improved Coordination:** The act directs FEMA to improve coordination across all federal agencies involved in disaster recovery. - **Focus on Resilience:** The act encourages the adoption of consensus-based codes and standards to reduce financial losses and human suffering. ASCE looks forward to working with the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in this effort. ASCE has long supported FEMA’s efforts on resiliency with the goal of building back stronger through an emphasis on adopting up-to-date building codes. We support efforts in Congress to codify disaster mitigation programs and streamline recovery. ASCE believes that effective emergency management relies on the coordinated efforts of local, state, and federal agencies, including FEMA. 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Held in Washington, D.C., the event coincided with the release of the [2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). The report card awarded the United States a C—the highest grade in the report’s history. And while a C may signal progress, ASCE’s message is clear: we still have a long road ahead. As part of the summit, I participated in a [fireside chat](https://www.youtube.com/live/d3DcUbz8CdU?t=13251s) with ASCE Executive Director, Tom Smith, attended by key infrastructure leaders, engineers, and policymakers. I also had the unique opportunity to meet one-on-one with policymakers as well as host a salon dinner with media representatives and industry leaders, all to further the discussion of how digital solutions should be prioritized to get America’s infrastructure back on track. ASCE’s report is key to informing the next infrastructure bill, and highlights areas in need of improvement that align with Autodesk’s recently released [Policy Recommendations to the Trump-Vance Administration and 119th Congress](https://damassets.autodesk.net/content/dam/autodesk/www/pdf/autodesk-policy-recommendations-to-the-trump-vance-administration-and-119th-congress.pdf). The US faces a [$3.7 trillion infrastructure investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf#page=7), and according to ASCE, American households lose roughly $2,000 annually due to poor infrastructure. The opportunity is here—not just to fix what’s broken, but to build smarter, more resilient infrastructure for the future. Here’s what you need to know–and how Autodesk is helping move the US in the right direction. ### 1. America’s infrastructure is improving—but still underperforming The C grade may be a step up from the previous C-, but it’s not a grade anyone would brag about. Nine of the 18 assessed categories still fall in the D range ([see full list of grades](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf)). While investments from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act are starting to show results, decades of underfunding have left deep deficits. ASCE’s takeaway: improvement is real, but uneven—and far from complete. ### 2. Sustained investment is essential Increased federal funding has helped raise the grade, but maintaining this momentum is crucial. ASCE’s report emphasizes that [sustained funding is the only way](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf#page=10) to close the $3.7 trillion investment gap and avoid long-term economic consequences. ASCE notes that continued investment through 2033 could help save the US economy as much as $637 billion in GDP. ### 3. Smart infrastructure starts with smart technology Traditional tools and outdated workflows can’t keep up with 21st-century infrastructure needs. Autodesk is helping engineers and agencies make the leap with advanced tools like [Building Information Modeling (BIM)](https://www.autodesk.com/solutions/aec/bim), [digital twins](https://intandem.autodesk.com/?us_oa=dotcom-us&us_si=f1826d14-4954-475d-9671-e06e2cff00da&us_pt=TANDEM&us_at=Tandem), and AI-driven solutions. These technologies allow for faster planning, more accurate designs, and infrastructure that’s easier to maintain and more resilient to stress. The result: less waste, smarter spending, better outcomes. For example, using Autodesk software, [Dallas Fort Worth International Airport](https://construction.autodesk.com/resources/owners-customer-stories/how-dallas-fort-worth-international-airport-manages-real-time-reaction-with-technology?utm_source=chatgpt.com) (DFW) has embraced data-driven decision-making to improve infrastructure planning, maintenance, and operational efficiency. By leveraging real-time data insights and predictive maintenance technologies, DFW has been able to reduce time spent on reporting by 40 hours per week, improve asset management and maintenance planning, and enhance collaboration among stakeholders. What’s more, the [Indiana Department of Transportation](https://construction.autodesk.com/resources/customer-success-stories/indiana-department-of-transportation-delivered-a-2-billion-dollar-highway-project/) (INDOT) delivered a $2 billion highway expansion using Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC), which reduced drive times for local communities. ACC enabled INDOT designers, engineers, and contractors to manage project documentation in one central environment, which increased transparency, removed bottlenecks, and enabled the project to be delivered on schedule and within budget. ### 4. Resilience is the new baseline ASCE’s report emphasizes that [resilient infrastructure saves money and lives](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf#page=11). Every $1 spent on resilience can save $13 in post-disaster recovery costs. Autodesk empowers design teams to simulate future conditions and stress-test projects long before construction starts. This kind of planning isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential. A strong example of this approach comes from the City of San Marcos, Texas—located in the heart of “Flash Flood Alley.” Working with the consulting firm Lockwood, Andrews, and Newman, the city leveraged Autodesk technology to build a digital twin hydraulic model of its stormwater system. The model allowed engineers to simulate flash flood scenarios, analyze vulnerabilities in real time, and proactively strengthen the city’s defenses. [This project](https://www.autodesk.com/blogs/water/2024/05/15/mapping-flash-flood-alley-lan-built-a-digital-twin-hydraulic-model-for-the-city-of-san-marcos/) shows how digital tools can turn reactive responses into strategic, life-saving planning. ### 5. Competitiveness depends on collaboration and workforce readiness Infrastructure investment isn’t just about steel and concrete—it’s about people. Closing the infrastructure gap requires coordination between government, industry, and tech leaders. Autodesk is investing in [workforce development](https://www.autodesk.com/company/government-affairs/resources?policy=future-of-work) through training, education partnerships, and accessible tools. It’s a strategy that not only addresses current challenges but builds the capacity to meet future demands. ### This is the moment The 2025 ASCE Infrastructure Report Card isn’t just a status update—it’s a wake-up call. The highest grade on record should be a rallying point, not a resting place. Sustained investment, smarter design, and strong public-private partnerships can transform American infrastructure from a liability into a strategic advantage. With companies like Autodesk leading the charge, innovation isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a blueprint. The tools to boost America’s infrastructure GPA aren’t just coming, they’re already at work. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=FEMA%20ends%20Building%20Resilient%20Infrastructure%20and%20Communities%20Program&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F04%2Ffema-blog-feat-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=FEMA%20ends%20Building%20Resilient%20Infrastructure%20and%20Communities%20Program "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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The announcement stated that undistributed BRIC funds will be returned to the Disaster Relief Fund or the U.S. Treasury. The announcement also stated that FEMA is working to develop an updated approach to mitigation that is more responsive to state and local requirements, achieves clear mitigation goals, and results in more timely funding. FEMA says it will rescind approximately $880 million in yet-to-be-spent funding for resilience projects and programs. ## What is Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC)? Congress established BRIC through the [Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018](https://www.fema.gov/disaster/disaster-recovery-reform-act-2018) to ensure a stable funding source to support mitigation projects annually. The first round of BRIC funding occurred during the previous Trump administration in 2020, replacing a similar FEMA initiative known as the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program. The program provided federal funding for hazard mitigation projects aimed at reducing the long-term risks and costs of natural disasters. Counties, along with states, municipalities and tribal governments, were eligible to apply through a national competitive process. BRIC supported projects such as flood control systems, wildfire prevention, stormwater management upgrades, and strengthened building codes. The program typically covered up to 75% of project costs and awarded more than $5 billion in grants. The program received a large boost during the Biden administration after Congress passed the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684), which authorized an additional $1 billion for the program over five years. ## The impact of BRIC and the program’s cancellation ASCE was actively involved in the passage of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 and the creation of BRIC. ASCE has made it a priority to emphasize the [importance of resilience](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps500---resilient-infrastructure-initiatives), especially through the adoption of [up-to-date building codes](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/codes-and-standards). BRIC grants criteria prioritized building codes and often offered incentives for their use. Given the relatively short period in which it operated, assessing the program’s success is hard. However, the Trump Administration says FEMA’s BRIC grants have not increased the level of hazard mitigation as much as desired and may supplant state and local capital investment planning. The Administration has stated that they are considering a new direction for the BRIC Program. The program cancellation is the latest blow to FEMA, which provides tens of billions of dollars annually in disaster aid and grants. The administration also [froze $10 billion in disaster aid](https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/28/fema-blocks-disaster-aid-immigrants-00256910) for nonprofits, including hospitals, as it scrutinizes FEMA programs for potentially helping undocumented migrants. Some Administration officials have even suggested shrinking or dissolving the agency and moving all disaster response to state and local control. ## ASCE’s response to the cancellation of the FEMA BRIC program In a [letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2025-04-21-asce_letter_to_dhs_on_fema_bric.pdf), ASCE expressed concern about the decision to cut funding for the program and stated ASCE’s belief that programs like BRIC are sound investments that ultimately create significant savings for individual taxpayers, as well as local, state, and federal governments. Cuts to BRIC and other FEMA grants and programs will likely prove costly in the long term because the adoption and enforcement of current building codes and standards remain two of the most effective risk mitigation measures local and state governments can undertake. A key [recommendation to raise the grades](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/) in the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* was the importance of resilience in infrastructure planning, development, and construction. The report concluded that better outcomes can be realized in disaster recovery and response through project planning and development that prioritizes resilience. This practice enables policymakers to ensure public dollars are spent efficiently over a project’s lifespan. This was a key focus of the FEMA BRIC program, and ASCE is concerned that this focus could be lost. 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Surface transportation reauthorization, a large legislative effort that falls under the jurisdiction of multiple Congressional committees, is a major priority for ASCE, as current programs are set to expire in September 2026. The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure has made an early start on this bill, holding over a dozen hearings since the beginning of the year and providing opportunities for stakeholder input. On April 29th, ASCE [submitted priorities](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2025-04-29-asce-surface-transportation-reauthorization-priorities.pdf) to the committee, which accepted legislative proposals from interested groups via an online portal. ## Priorities for the Surface Transportation Reauthorization ### Transportation Funding In the upcoming reauthorization, ASCE recommends Congress sustain infrastructure investment by at least maintaining funding levels included in the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684) (IIJA). While transportation funding should involve a continuation of traditional user fees, such as federal and state motor fuel taxes, ASCE recognizes the need to transition to more sustainable and equitable user fees, such as alternative energy vehicle fees, road usage charges, and innovative financing mechanisms. ASCE also supports supplemental funding for local roads, the availability of technical assistance, and the tax-exemption of municipal bonds. Transportation funding received a particular focus this week on Capitol Hill. The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on April 30th approved its budget reconciliation proposal, which would impose fees on vehicles that do not pay into the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Specifically, the legislation imposes an annual registration fee of $250 on electric vehicles (EVs) and $100 on hybrid vehicles. A provision for a $20 annual registration fee on all other vehicles was scrapped after several Republican lawmakers criticized the idea. Prior to the markup, on April 25th, ASCE joined 30 transportation stakeholders in sending a [letter expressing support](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/ev_reconciliation_letter_committee_042525.pdf) for the electric and hybrid vehicle fees to committee Chairman Sam Graves (R-MO). ### Safety and Accessibility Safety, a guiding principle for ASCE’s work, is also represented in the surface transportation reauthorization priorities. ASCE supports the implementation of multimodal policies and practices that integrate the safety and accessibility of all users in the planning, design, construction, operations, connectivity, and maintenance of transportation networks. ASCE recommends dependable funding for federal programs such as the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) and the Safe Routes to School Program while calling for current data to help jurisdictions mitigate crashes. ### Project Delivery Several of ASCE’s recommendations pertain to project delivery, which lawmakers have indicated will be a topic of consideration as they craft legislation. ASCE recommends that Congress legislate ways for the permitting process to be streamlined in a safe and responsible way. Streamlining measures include page limits and deadlines for environmental impact statements, as well as concurrent reviews of project documents and the designation of a lead administrative agency to expedite the approval process. Additionally, ASCE recommends Congress expedite the process for certifying categorical exclusions, which can trim months from a project’s timeline without sacrificing environmental safeguards. ### Improving Operations and Maintenance ASCE’s recommendations also offer Congress perspective on improving operations and maintenance work, which is critical to keep aging infrastructure in service and enhance system performance and reliability. Congress should support state- and local-level transportation asset management plans that link asset management efforts to long-term transportation planning and incorporate the use of life-cycle cost analysis, which can help with the overall cost-effectiveness of a project. ASCE also notes that additional federal funding support for transit operations is necessary to preserve safe, reliable, and efficient transit service, which continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. ### Future Resiliency A final subject ASCE covers in its recommendations is preparing for the future, as disasters of greater intensity, duration, and frequency wreak havoc on communities across the country. In addition to calling for continued support of the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT) Program, ASCE asks Congress to fund research into the use of innovative technologies, materials, and construction techniques. Another key component of building 21st century infrastructure is developing the workforce to design and operate it, so ASCE recommends training programs focused on transportation technologies. ASCE will continue to stay involved in the surface transportation reauthorization process, working with our members and keeping up with lawmakers’ progress on this legislation. 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It ensures safety and supports daily activities, like driving over bridges or flying to destinations. The quality of infrastructure is crucial for our safety. To help better tell the story of America’s Infrastructure, which we detailed in the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, ASCE partnered with [Esri](https://www.esri.com/en-us/home) to utilize their [ArcGIS StoryMaps](https://www.esri.com/en-us/arcgis/products/arcgis-storymaps/overview) platform to create “[Infrastructure is Everywhere](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/),” an interactive map that outlines how infrastructure plays a significant role in our daily lives. Esri talked with ASCE’s Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives about the importance of understanding how our infrastructure systems are interconnected and their impact on our everyday lives. [ Read More](https://www.esri.com/arcgis-blog/products/arcgis-storymaps/aec/2025-infrastructure-report-card) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20partners%20with%20Esri%20to%20create%20ArcGIS%20StoryMap%20%E2%80%9CInfrastructure%20is%20Everywhere%E2%80%9D&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F04%2Fesri-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20partners%20with%20Esri%20to%20create%20ArcGIS%20StoryMap%20%E2%80%9CInfrastructure%20is%20Everywhere%E2%80%9D "Share on 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'C'](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/alaska-infrastructure-report-card-grade-improves-to-c/) **Published:** February 27, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Alaska%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Grade%20Improves%20to%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F03%2Falaska-report-card-2-web-feat-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Alaska%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Grade%20Improves%20to%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99 "Share on 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In this third Report Card for The Last Frontier, the overall grade climbed to ‘C,’ and Alaska’s public parks rated at ‘C-’ in the first chapter analyzing that system. Three categories saw reduced grades – Aviation (C-), Energy (D+), Transit (C) – and three others showed improvement: Bridges (B+), Dams (C+), and Ports (C-). While the overall grade for Alaska is now higher than the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* --- ## ![Three men in suits speaking at a government hearing room; banner reads '2025 Report Card for Alaska's Infrastructure'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/AK-Cmmte-Answers-Qs-at-Release-2025-AK-IRC-400x232-1.jpg "AK-Cmmte-Answers-Qs-at-Release-2025-AK-IRC-400x232") | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B+** | Bridges | | **C+** | Dams | | **C** | Rail, Roads, Solid Waste, Transit | | **C-** | Aviation, Ports, Public Parks | | **D+** | Drinking Water, Energy | | **D** | Marine Highways, Wastewater | ## **Federal Investments Support Ala ska Infrastructure** ![Speaker in a suit testifies at a legislative chamber, standing at a podium with a microphone beside a board labeled 'Alaska's 2025 Report Card for Alaska's Infrastructure' and yellow sticky notes.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/David-Gamez-Speaks-at-Release-2025-AK-IRC-400x220-1.jpg "David-Gamez-Speaks-at-Release-2025-AK-IRC-400x220") The 2025 Alaska Infrastructure Report Card notes that the state’s unique geography, seismic activity, and harsh winter climate pose significant challenges to its built environment. Federal programs like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act have been instrumental in meeting those challenges. Recent federal investments – $9.3 billion as of December 2024 – have accelerated almost 4,000 projects. 17% of that funding supports broadband projects, and 15% is bolstering clean water work, facilitating public health and economic opportunity in rural communities. ## **How to Improve Alaska’s Infrastructure Grades** The 2025 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure offers five recommendations to build a more resilient and inclusive infrastructure network: - Establish better, dedicated funding sources. - Implement long-term planning regulations for asset management. - Incorporate resilience and risk management into project planning, maintenance, and operations. - Strengthen leadership and interagency coordination at the state and local levels. - Investing in hiring, retention, and training programs to address workforce shortages. ## Engineers Contribute to Alaska Infrastructure Report Card ASCE thanks each infrastructure professional for contributing to the 2025 *Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure*: **Committee Chairs** **David Gamez, PE** *Marine Highways, Roads, Transit* **Dylan Baffrey** *Drinking Water, Solid Waste, Wastewater* **Tor Anderzen, PE** *Aviation, Marine Highways* **Authors/Contributors** **Kacy Grundhauser, PE** *Public Parks* **Donald ‘Greg’ Kinney, PE** *Energy* **Mwasi J. Mwamba, PE** *Aviation* **Alexander ‘Alex’ Li** *Energy* **Elizabeth Greer, PE** *Rail* **Kim L. Bustillos, PE** *Dams* **Carl Uchytil, PE** *Ports* **Andrew Gallagher, PE** *Rail* **Andrew Wells, PE** *Bridges* **Nicole M. Yount, PE** *Drinking Water, Wastewater* **Shane McFarlane, PE** *Ports* **Michael ‘Ori’ Miller, PE** *Dams, Drinking Water, Wastewater* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Alaska%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Grade%20Improves%20to%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F03%2Falaska-report-card-2-web-feat-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Alaska%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Grade%20Improves%20to%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99 "Share on 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IIJA spending](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trump-signs-executive-orders-to-begin-second-term-creating-uncertainty-for-iija-spending/) **Published:** January 30, 2025 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F01%2Ffimg-news-default.jpg&description=Trump%20signs%20executive%20orders%20to%20begin%20second%20term%2C%20creating%20uncertainty%20for%20IIJA%20spending "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Trump%20signs%20executive%20orders%20to%20begin%20second%20term%2C%20creating%20uncertainty%20for%20IIJA%20spending "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Trump%20signs%20executive%20orders%20to%20begin%20second%20term%2C%20creating%20uncertainty%20for%20IIJA%20spending&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Since assuming office last week, President Trump has signed several executive orders related to various policy topics, including energy, climate, and infrastructure. Among those actions is an executive order temporarily halting disbursement of remaining funds appropriated under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act, as well as a related order to temporarily freeze all federal assistance programs. Combined, the Executive Orders have created uncertainty for the future of spending under both laws and call into question continued reliable and sustainable infrastructure investment from the federal government. First, an Executive Order signed on inauguration day that would temporarily halt IIJA and IRA funds has been viewed by some lawmakers as only a pause for specific programs related to EVs and EV charging. Unfortunately, language in the Executive Order is unclear, which led to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) briefly shutting down any disbursements for IIJA programs last week. While, FHWA is once again reimbursing states for expenses, the initial confusion concerned many infrastructure stakeholders who questioned the Trump Administration’s implementation of IIJA programs over the final two years of the legislation. Furthermore, that same order also rescinded the Biden Administration’s executive order placing climate change at the forefront of U.S. domestic and national security policy, as well as the previous administration’s “Justice40 Initiative,” which directed at least 40 percent of climate investment be dedicated to investing in environmental justice communities. While the rescission of those policies was not unexpected, it does illustrate the priorities that the Trump Administration will examine when administering over $80 billion in additional discretionary spending still remaining from the IIJA. After an initial flurry of Executive Orders on inauguration day, President Trump continues to sign additional sweeping policy changes over the past several days. The most sweeping was an order published on Monday January 27th calling for a temporary halt to “all Federal financial assistance programs.” While that order was soon rescinded by the Office of Management and Budget on Wednesday, January 29th, the funding pause created widespread confusion among the organizations, individuals, and levels of governments who benefit from federal government assistance. The quick reversal from the Trump administration follows a federal judge issuing an injunction on Tuesday afternoon against the funding pause, temporarily blocking the administration’s efforts to restrict payments for federal grants and assistance programs. The lawsuit, led by organizations including the National Council of Nonprofits and the American Public Health Association, argued that OMB failed to provide a legal basis for suspending funds already approved by Congress. Attorneys general from 22 states and the District of Columbia also filed a separate legal challenge, claiming that millions of Americans rely on federally funded programs for healthcare, social services, and economic support. Despite the memo’s withdrawal, the court-ordered injunction remains in effect until at least February 3rd, because of the administration’s comments on continuing to freeze funding. If allowed to come into effect, the pause on federal assistance could have had wide reaching implications for critical transit and infrastructure programs that rely on government dollars to fund their operations. Among the myriad initiatives that would have been affected by the funding freeze are programs impacting infrastructure planning and construction. While legal precedent holds that the President cannot block congressionally approved spending, like the IIJA, even a slowdown could have large scale ramifications for state and local projects. In addition to the two Executive Orders mentioned above, President Trump has also signed multiple executive orders aimed at increasing production of fossil fuels. Most notably, he signed an order declaring a “National Energy Emergency.” This order was signed with the intent of allowing for increased production of fossil fuels while allowing for sidestepping of certain rules and regulations which could delay production increases. This executive order is expected to face court challenges in the coming weeks and months. ASCE supports national energy generation and production policies that promote a broad and balanced energy source portfolio, supports engineering and industry practices that protect public health, safety, water resources, and the environment during exploration and production and generation. As we move forward, it is likely the current administration will continue to reevaluate federal spending and efforts to drastically slash Congressionally appropriated dollars will face significant resistance. In the meantime, ASCE will continue to advocate for sustained and reliable federal investment in our nation’s interconnected infrastructure systems. Legislation like the IIJA provides a much-needed infusion to address the nation’s growing infrastructure investment gap. However, in addressing deficiencies for long-term outcomes, sustained investment at and above current levels will be required to meet existing and future infrastructure demands. ASCE will continue to closely monitor the impact of any executive orders on infrastructure funding and coordinate with partners on an appropriate industry response when necessary. 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scrutinizing professional civil engineer licensing](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-legislatures-scrutinizing-professional-civil-engineer-licensing/) **Published:** March 6, 2025 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=State%20legislatures%20scrutinizing%20professional%20civil%20engineer%20licensing&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2025%2F03%2Flicensure-laws-featured-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=State%20legislatures%20scrutinizing%20professional%20civil%20engineer%20licensing 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“Department of Government Efficiency” to tackle waste, fraud, and abuse in the Sunshine State. Specifically, over the next year, DeSantis wants his new government efficiency initiative to scrutinize local government spending, reduce the size of the state government’s workforce, conduct independent reviews of state universities, and eliminate 70 state boards and commissions. Among the boards that may be at risk is the Florida Board of Professional Engineers (FBPE), which oversees licensure for 46,000 professional engineers in Florida. While there have been no public statements singling out the FBPE for termination, Gov. DeSantis’ focus on abolishing what he views as unnecessary state boards is part of a growing trend across the country that calls into question the future of engineering boards and licensure as we know it. ## West Virginia In West Virginia, Governor Patrick Morrisey [penned an op-ed](https://wvrecord.com/stories/664272158-west-virginia-s-backyard-brawl-for-prosperity) in September while still serving as the state’s Attorney General, where he laid out his vision for an aggressive policy agenda to spur economic development if elected governor. Among his proposals to help draw investments and jobs to West Virginia were lowering state taxes and eliminating burdensome regulations, including “comparing every…workforce policy and licensing rule in West Virginia with the corresponding laws from every state” it touches. Since then, Governor Morrisey has been working to honor his campaign promises by issuing executive orders to develop more efficient government and reduce administrative rules and regulatory review. Additionally, his allies in the West Virginia state legislature have introduced a pair of corresponding bills (SB 458 and HB 2001) that [aim to lift](https://www.newsandsentinel.com/news/business/2025/03/west-virginia-senate-committee-gets-first-look-at-morriseys-occupational-licensing-reciprocity-bill/) hurdles for new residents looking to secure professional and occupational licenses in West Virginia. The bills would require professional licensing boards within West Virginia to grant licenses to individuals from other states if they have been licensed for at least one year, are in good standing, and meet the other state’s minimum education, work, and supervision requirements. The bill would also grant reciprocity to those who passed required licensure examinations in any other state, so long as they have no criminal history and a good disciplinary record. The proposed legislation would apply to civil engineers and other professions licensed by the West Virginia State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. ## Indiana In January, the Indiana Senate considered Senate Bill 101. [The bill](https://iga.in.gov/pdf-documents/124/2025/senate/bills/SB0101/fiscal-notes/SB0101.01.INTR.FN001.pdf), if signed into law, would have allowed those with 25 years of “experience in engineering work” one attempt to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering and the Principals and Practice of Engineering exams without meeting the otherwise necessary requirements of a bachelor’s degree in engineering and at least four years of experience working for a licensed engineer. While the bill was discussed in committee, it appears the legislation has stalled and will not advance. ## Nevada Meanwhile, in Nevada, state lawmakers are considering [SB 78](https://www.leg.state.nv.us/App/NELIS/REL/83rd2025/Bill/11891/Overview), legislation that would consolidate the number of different licensing boards in the state from 37 to 17. Under the proposed legislation, the Nevada Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors would be eliminated. The responsibilities of the current board would be transferred to a new entity, the Nevada Board of Professional Design and Environmental Specialists, a thirteen-member panel that would include two licensed professional engineers, with the remainder of the board consisting of residential designers, interior designers, architects, land surveyors, employees of certain state health districts, and a member of the general public. Currently, the bill is in committee and awaiting the introduction of amendments. While the future of these various licensure-related bills remains uncertain, there will likely be many more legislative challenges to engineering licensure. ASCE will continue to monitor this legislation and other threats to professional civil engineer licensure in the coming weeks and months. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Montana%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20grade%20declines%20to%20a%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%99&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Montana’s infrastructure is now ranked on par with the national infrastructure score, donning a ‘C-’ grade in the 2024 Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure. ASCE’s Montana Section released its latest report today, which covers 14 categories of infrastructure and is a one-step decrease from the ‘C‘ the state received in its 2018 report. At a press conference at the State Capitol building, engineers from the Montana Section shared findings from the report and solutions for raising the grades. Of the 14 categories, two (drinking water and schools) saw grade increases, while three (bridges, energy, and solid waste) saw grade decreases compared to the 2018 report. The report also includes the state’s first assessment of broadband infrastructure, which was given an ‘I’ for incomplete due to a lack of necessary condition data. The grades for each category are below | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **C+** | Rail | | **C** | Aviation, Drinking Water, Solid Waste | | **C-** | Bridges, Dams, Hazardous Waste, Public Parks, Roads, Wastewater | | **D** | Schools, Stormwater | | **I** | Broadband | **Population Growth and Extreme Weather Adding Strain** The report notes that increasingly severe weather events such as the record water flows that led to a rail bridge collapse over the Yellowstone River in 2022 underscore the need to modernize Montana’s built environment with more resilient assets. Structures that are unprepared for harsh conditions will put lives at risk and slow economic growth. Emerging contaminants like PFAS in the state’s water supply, which pose great public health risks when consumed, are being addressed by state agencies effectively, but there is more to be done. Montana’s percentage-based population growth is among the highest in the nation since 2019, which can spark economic activity but also requires networks to expand to accommodate this growth. **Transportation Networks Need Work** In this year’s report card, bridges dropped from a ‘C’ to a ‘C-’, despite a $45 million revenue boost from the IIJA over the bill’s five-year life cycle (2021-2026). While significant, available funding continues to be a fraction of existing needs, with annual needs hovering around $400 million while available funds are closer to $60 million. This has led to 35 more bridges labeled with posted load restrictions and 11 new bridge closures each year, which will grow 10-20% yearly if funding levels remain the same. This slows economic efficiency, forcing heavier trucks carrying goods through the region to take long detours, which ultimately increases the costs of goods. Roads are also a ‘C-’, as 33% of urban roads and 20% of rural roads were classified as being in poor condition in 2023. Harsh winters exacerbate these challenges, as snow, ice, and freeze-thaw cycles accelerate pavement degradation. Over the next decade, an estimated $16.9 billion will be needed for road maintenance and improvements, yet projected revenue stands at just $6.5 billion. **Energy Grid a Concern** Energy (‘C-’) is another chapter whose grade dropped one-notch from Montana’s 2018 report due to an aging grid that lacks the modern equipment necessary to support renewable energy integration and surging power demands. In an increasingly electric-dependent world, electricity consumption increased by 11% between 2010 and 2019. Additionally, Montana ranks 4th in the nation for per capita energy consumption due to its energy-intensive industries (such as mining, agriculture), long travel distances, and harsh winters. However, Montana is a major player in the regional energy market, exporting 40% of its electricity to neighboring states. **How to raise the grade** The *Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure* includes five recommendations to raise its cumulative grade. - **Establishing dedicated, long-term funding for critical infrastructure categories:** Temporary or inconsistent funding sources have led to deferred maintenance and increased infrastructure vulnerabilities. Dedicated funding streams can ensure sustained investment in critical infrastructure, securing economic growth and public safety for the long term. - **Addressing workforce development to sustain infrastructure progress:** Montana’s infrastructure improvement requires a larger, more skilled, well-resourced workforce. Investments in education, training programs, and apprenticeships will ensure a pipeline of qualified workers to build, maintain, and modernize infrastructure while boosting economic opportunity. - **Prioritizing climate resilience in infrastructure planning and development:** Montana’s diverse geography and extreme weather risks require robust strategies to enhance resilience. Investing in infrastructure capable of withstanding severe conditions, such as improved stormwater systems and wildfire-resistant designs, enhances resiliency and safeguards communities. **What’s next** State infrastructure report cards are a valuable advocacy tool at all levels of government. ASCE members are looking forward to discussing the new Report Card and steps to raise the grade with state lawmakers when they start the 2025 legislative session in January, and with Montana’s members of Congress during ASCE’s Legislative Fly-In, which takes place in March, immediately after the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Improve%20Minnesota%20Infrastructure%20with%20Capital%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Panelist Hannah Albertus-Benham of ASCE Minnesota speaks at a conference, smiling while seated at a microphone in a wood-toned auditorium.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hannah-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025-1024x784.jpg "Hannah-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hannah-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025.jpg) ## ASCE Supports Minnesota Infrastructure Investment On Wednesday, January 21st, ASCE Members Hannah Albertus-Benham and Meredith Lis Marcott testified to the Capital Investment Committee of Minnesota’s State Senate. In their remarks – which you can [watch here](https://www.lrl.mn.gov/media/file?mtgid=1050328) *\[starting at 1 hour, 33 minutes\]* – Albertus-Benham used Minnesota’s 2022[ *Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota/) as a jumping-off point to highlight improvements in recent years and emphasize the importance of more robust capital investment across several infrastructure categories to keep up the momentum. Hannah led that previous report card effort, which assigned an overall C grade, and she is [recruiting now](https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=VUIjPQ_iBUKIpZZYpAKZm3IuY6Y2Q8VBgfTyO3NwFctURFEwQjE1MDFHMEdHNU04TkhFTEc0TTk2NS4u) for the team to update that report. “Our Minnesota membership base is 1,400 members who live and work in your communities,” began Albertus-Benham. This was the second year that Hannah testified to this committee. “We’re here – again – sounding the alarm that the time for infrastructure is now. It was ‘now’ last year, and it’s now again.” Hannah continued, cautioning the state lawmakers about last session’s failed measure to expand bonding authority for infrastructure. “With the traction we lost last session, we would like to stress the importance of prioritizing the systems Minnesotans rely upon.” Meredith Lis Marcott summarized the scrappy yet rigorous nuts and bolts of ASCE advocacy. “ASCE’s report card is prepared by volunteer committees and each state’s section works over 12-15 months to write the report.” Meredith concluded the duo’s presentation by noting that only limited investments have been made recently in energy, water, environment, parks, and trails – though there is promise in the newly assembling Minnesota Advisory Council on Infrastructure. A [dozen slides](https://assets.senate.mn/committees/2025-2026/1002_Committee_on_Capital_Investment/ASCE_MN-Report-Card-.pdf) with more info flashed forward during their presentation of key points. ## ASCE State Report Cards Promote Infrastructure Improvements Every four years since 1998, ASCE’s [*Report Card on America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) has assessed the nation’s performance of our interconnected infrastructure systems. Since 2004, ASCE has released [report cards for state infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/), applying the same methodology to evaluations of the systems in state and local contexts. Civil engineers and other infrastructure professionals work on volunteer committees for both state and national report cards. ASCE staff support these volunteers in a 12-18 month process with professional development trainings, networking, and continuing education credits. ASCE welcomes any questions about the report card program and invites all infrastructure professionals to volunteer. [Send us an email](mailto:reportcard@asce.org?subject=Interest%20in%20report%20card)! Each report card committee utilizes public data to produce a rigorous yet accessible document. Letter grades are assigned after considering not only the condition, but the funding, future needs, and resilience of each system – among other criteria. Each state report card features recommendations to raise the grades at state and local levels, along with the private sector. One notable achievement of ASCE’s state report card program came with the 2022 [*Report Card for Alabama’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alabama/). That report gave dams in the state a conspicuous “?” grade. At the time, Alabama was the only state that did not have a state dam safety program, which complicated the committee’s ability to properly assess the condition of the state’s dams. More importantly, though, lacking this data and funding for improvements put lives and businesses at risk as they were in the dark about the condition of these structures that are meant to keep their towns safe, and lacked the necessary funds to assess and improve the dams. However, in 2023 and 2024, Alabama took legislative action to create an opt-in dam safety program allowing for inspection and monitoring of state- and privately-owned dams. These initiatives move the state closer to eligibility for federal grants to improve infrastructure that protects life and property. ASCE members in Alabama had worked over many years for that advocacy win, and their report card was a key step toward safer infrastructure policy. [![Woman speaking at a panel with a microphone in front of her, wearing glasses and a beige sweater; text overlay shows 'January 21' and 'American Society of Civil Engineers MN State Infrastructure Report Card'](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Meredith-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025-400x318.jpg "Meredith-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Meredith-Testify-MN-Senate-1.21.2025.jpg)Meredith Lis Marcott testifies to Minnesota Senate Committee on Capital Investment January 2025[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Improve%20Minnesota%20Infrastructure%20with%20Capital%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Minnesota, National Category, News, State --- ### [Texas Infrastructure Rates at “C” in 2025](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/texas-infrastructure-rates-at-c-in-2025/) **Published:** February 20, 2025 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Texas%20Infrastructure%20Rates%20at%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20in%202025&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On February 18 at the Austin Capitol Building, ASCE members released the 2025 *Report Card for Texas Infrastructure*. The press conference featured updates to the state’s 2021 Report Card. ## **Texas Infrastructure Report Card Adds Four Categories and Updates Energy Analysis** The new document adds four additional infrastructure categories (broadband, hazardous waste, ports, and rail) and expands the scope of ASCE’s energy chapter. Starting with the Texas energy chapter and national energy chapter releasing on March 25th, ASCE report cards will analyze all three interdependent phases of that system: generation, transmission, and distribution. In the past, the energy chapter has focused on long-distance and last-mile electrical lines in those “T&D” networks. ![ASCE Texas Section President Mark Boyd, PE, speaking to reporters at the Texas State Capitol.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3239797168185732464-225x400-1.jpeg "3239797168185732464-225x400") Of the 16 Texas categories, two (aviation and roads) saw grade increases, while six (drinking water, energy, levees, solid waste, transit, and wastewater) saw grade decreases compared to the 2021 report. An influx of funding from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and state and local initiatives have helped improve or maintain conditions in the transportation sector, as aviation (B) and roads (C-) were the only two grades to improve, while bridges (B-) remains one of the highest-performing categories. Drinking water (D+, down from C- in 2021), stormwater (C-), and wastewater (D-, down from D in 2021) are struggling to meet demands as systems age and funding fails to match current and future needs. Winter storms in early 2021 caused 40% of water utilities to issue boil water notices. ## **Texas Engineers Recommend Changes to Improve Infrastructure** The 2025 Texas Infrastructure Report Card recommendations to raise the grades, include: - **Continue investments in Texas infrastructure by appropriating funding and revenues to their respective source**, injecting funding through grant programs and low interest loans, adopting appropriate fees with periodic review for rate adjustments, and by investing in research and advancement of technology for efficiency. - **Drive sound policy and standards** that ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability for projects across all categories. - **Continue reviews and modernization of engineering standards** that incorporate innovation, minimize risks and minimize vulnerabilities to our infrastructure networks. - **Prioritize asset management and planning,** which allows owners to plan, manage, and optimize investments, and allocate resources effectively. ASCE thanks each infrastructure professional for contributing to the 2025 Report Card for Texas Infrastructure, and we’re excited to support their advocacy moving forward: **Committee Chairs** - Griselda Gonzales - Austin Messerli **Support for Reviews, Release, Marketing, and Logistics** - Travis Attanasio - Russell Carter - Kimberly Cornett - Kim Garcia - Jenni Peters - Andres Salazar **Authors/Contributors** *Category leads are listed below in bold.* **Aviation** - **Jason Frank** - Craig Covil - Janet Durrin **Bridges** - **Marcelo DaSilva** - Sumanth Cheruku - Michael Hrncir - Yan Linwood - Anna Olveda - Arish Sajwani - David Pretorius **Broadband** - **Sean Droptini** - Ed Barrett **Dams** - **Nishant (Nick) Dayal** - Kelly Pane - Lei Wei **Drinking Water** - **Eelhard Meneses** - John K. Baker - Julia Hunt - Denis Qualls **Levees** - **Frederic Ma** - Stephanie Zertuche **Energy** - **Geoff Roberts** - **Oliver Smith** - Vikrant Joshi - Sandra Morris - Wes Oliphant - Les Pittman - Shanru Tian - Silky Wong **Hazardous Waste** - **Mark Boyd** - James Buzbee - Chuqi Huang - Dallas May **Public Parks** - **Adam Giblin** - Patricia Frayre - Hugo Hardwick - Komala Narra **Ports** - **Joseph Scarborough** - Roger Hoh - Ashley Judith - Jessica Shambra **Roads** - **Anjuman Ara** - Nathan Kebede - Mohammed Siddique **Solid Waste** - **Robert (Holly) Holder** - Brenda Haney - Abate Wolde-Kirkos **Stormwater** - **Adam Eaton** - **Melvin Spinks** - Rebecca Katzke - Madison Koceich - Shuchi Mishra **Transit** - **Russell Ruplinger** - Craig Covil **Wastewater** - **Sarenna Moore** - Tara Delagarza - George Farah - Stephen Mobley - Carl Pitzer 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Texas%20Infrastructure%20Rates%20at%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20in%202025&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State Report, Texas **Tags:** infrastructure, report card, texas, texas infrastructure --- ### [Congress Announces 2024 WRDA Agreement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-announces-2024-wrda-agreement/) **Published:** December 5, 2024 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20Announces%202024%20WRDA%20Agreement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F06%2FWRDA-e1719496694207.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20Announces%202024%20WRDA%20Agreement "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Announces%202024%20WRDA%20Agreement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, the House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) Committee along with Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee announced they had reached an agreement on the 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), Congress’s biennial legislation authorizing new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects. Both the House and Senate passed their respective WRDA bills this summer, with the [House passing its version in July](https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/hr8812/BILLS-118hr8812eh.pdf) followed by the [Senate in early August](https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/s4367/BILLS-118s4367es.pdf). The agreement ([S. 4367](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/5/1/5183ca00-3748-4d5f-a150-12764c15e390/765FF4FCD596998C1615DEC1D03670AEC4F47E3316D6111862DEBC4630086AD6.house-amendment-to-s.-4367-text.pdf)) authorizes 21 new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers water resources projects in 15 states, as well as Washington, DC and Puerto Rico. These projects cover a wide array of areas including navigation, hurricane and storm damage risk reduction, flood risk management, and ecosystem restoration. The agreement includes several new water resources policy provisions and multiple provisions supported by ASCE. The most notable of these is the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) through 2028, a top legislative priority for ASCE. The NDSP is the primary source of federal funding supporting state dam safety programs with inspection and monitoring activities, emergency preparedness, and staffing needs. The NDSP’s legislative authority expired in September of last year and it has been operating using previously appropriated funds since that time. The agreement includes language from two bills supported by ASCE and led by Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC) and Ann Kuster (D-NH)– [H.R. 5014](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5104?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=2&r=6)– the National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act and [H.R. 6931](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/6931?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=2&r=4)– the NDSP Amendment Act. In addition to reauthorizing the NDSP, the agreement eases restrictions on the amount of funds states can receive in state assistance grants, and improves access to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program- which provides competitive grants for rehabilitation projects for dams which pose the greatest risk to downstream communities. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND) led the Senate’s legislative efforts on the NDSP ([S. 3111](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/3111?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=1&r=8)) In addition to NDSP reauthorization, the agreement also requires incorporation of low-head dams into the National Inventory of Dams. The [2022 WRDA](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4136/text#toc-idD9FCD845FE5645A9981267D5C9381E25) law officially authorized the creation of a national inventory of low-head dams, which are smaller, river spanning structures that produce dangerous, undetectable currents and pose a risk to public safety. The incorporation of these structures into the National Inventory of Dams will enhance dam safety by making them more readily apparent and allowing for more safety precautions to be implemented. Another provision which ASCE strongly supports is an adjustment of the project cost share formula for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF). The IWTF helps pay for major rehabilitation and construction projects along navigation channels, which play a vital economic role as America’s “water highway.” Currently, these projects receive 65 percent of federal funding from appropriated general funds, and 35 percent by the IWTF. In the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, ASCE recommended modifying this cost share to a 75%-25% split as a way of raising the inland waterways’ D+ grade, which is what the 2024 WRDA agreement does. This step will ensure that the IWTF remains a valuable resource for future projects and will reduce the inland waterways project backlog. This year’s agreement also includes a reauthorization of the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the first reauthorization of the program in several years. Finally, the agreement includes the Fiscally Responsible Highway Funding Act of 2024. This effort, led by Senate EPW Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) would redistribute unobligated balances under the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program to states through the Surface Transportation Block Grant program. The House is slated to take up the 2024 WRDA agreement next week, where it is expected to be passed and taken up by the Senate for passage shortly after. This would mark the 6th consecutive time Congress has passed WRDA legislation on its intended biennial schedule, a rare example of bipartisan cooperation in an era of deep polarization. ASCE will continue to monitor any developments with the 2024 WRDA agreement through the end of this year. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Maine%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20grade%20improves%20to%20a%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Maine’s infrastructure is now ranked ahead of the national infrastructure score, donning a ‘C’ grade in the 2024 Report Card for Maine’s Infrastructure. This is one step ahead of the ‘C-‘ the nation received in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. ASCE’s Maine Section released its latest report today, which covers 16 categories of infrastructure and is a one-step increase from the ‘C-‘ the state received in its 2020 report. ![Speaker at a whiteboard presenting to a seated audience in a brick-walled cafe, with cameras filming in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Release-Photo-400x300.jpg "Release Photo") At a press conference, Maine Section leadership, along with Bruce Van Note, Commissioner, MaineDOT, and Craig Douglas, General Manager, Brunswick & Topsham Water District, shared findings from the report and perspectives from leading Maine infrastructure departments. Of the 16 categories, six (hazardous waste, rail, roads, schools, stormwater, and solid waste) saw grade increases, while three (bridges, energy, and levees) saw grade decreases compared to the 2020 report card. The grades for each category are below: | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | **B** | Aviation | | **B-** | Ports, Rail | | **C+** | Schools | | **C** | Public Parks, Stormwater | | **C-** | Drinking Water, Energy, Hazardous Waste, Roads, Solid Waste, Wastewater | | **D+** | Bridges, Dams, Levees, Transit | **Increased Funding Improving Short-Term Outlook, Not All Progress Accounted For** Maine’s bridges saw a one-step decrease to a ‘D+’ in the 2024 report card, compared to a ‘C-’ in 2020. One out of every seven bridges are in poor condition, and more than half of the bridges in the state are more than 50 years old, which is the designed service life for most bridges. Increased funding for transportation from state and federal sources is marking positive trends, but those projects are in the design and construction process and are not reflected in current condition data. Roads, on the other hand, saw a two-step grade increase from a ‘D’ to a ‘C-’. Over the last decade, the state has seen substantial improvements in pavement conditions, with 74 percent of state highways in good or excellent condition compared to 60% in 2012. Maine has invested substantially in projects to improve roads and bridges across the state, with Maine DOT’s 2024-2026 work plan including $4.74 billion in projects, an 83% increase over the 2020-2022 work plan. Although both categories have received similar funding boosts, often from the same revenue sources, road maintenance can be implemented much faster than bridges, which are often multi-year processes. **Water Systems Improving** Wastewater (C-) and stormwater (C) systems in Maine both saw a one-step grade increase in the 2024 report card. While increased funding for these systems has helped make much-needed improvements, there are still potential problems ahead, including many wastewater and stormwater systems nearing the age of their projected lifespans, which will require extensive improvements to ensure they remain reliable and resilient for the future. Maine’s drinking water grade remained stable at a ‘C-’, but aging infrastructure and new regulations on the levels of ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAs) in water will put pressure on utility systems that rely heavily on user fees and have limited budgets to upgrade their facilities. Water systems in Maine are not meeting their goal to replace one percent of water service lines each year, which adds anywhere from 10 to 50 years to the typical 100-year replacement cycle. Maine has approximately $60 million in annual drinking water needs for the next 20 years, with an estimated annual shortfall of $27 million. Those funding numbers are expected to increase as water systems comply with new federal regulations which will limit the levels of PFAs in drinking water. **Energy Grid a Concern** Maine’s energy grade dropped two steps to a ‘C-’ in this year’s report card. The state’s energy systems need approximately $2 billion in work to meet current needs. Like most states, Maine is dealing with increasing energy demand caused by more heat pumps used to heat homes and businesses and electric vehicle charging. While new renewable energy sources are coming online, demand is growing faster than the development of new plants. Additionally, power plants built during the 1970s and 1980s are reaching the end of their service life and will need to be replaced. As Maine builds an energy grid for the future, resilience and reliability must be a top priority because Maine is third in the nation in terms of both the frequency and duration of power outages. **How to raise the grade** The *Report Card for Maine’s Infrastructure* includes five recommendations to raise its cumulative grade. - **Prioritize public safety:** Prioritize funding for statewide dam and levee needs, PFAS remediation, and reducing traffic fatalities. There are significant hazards posed by dam or levee failures, including risks to public safety, property, infrastructure, and the environment. Additionally, increasing investment will be required for Maine’s efforts to address PFAS contamination in the environment, including soil and groundwater assessments and remediation measures. Traffic crashes typically cause over 150 fatalities on Maine roads annually. Investing in recommendations in the state’s highway strategic safety plan will save lives. - **Implement climate resilience.** In recent years, the increasing frequency of severe storms has significantly impacted Maine’s infrastructure. With our state’s “Maine Won’t Wait” plan for future maintenance and improvements, it’s essential to strategically invest in enhancing the resiliency of our state’s infrastructure. This will ultimately reduce long-term costs for users. All projects should consider climate impacts in their decision-making process regarding infrastructure investments. As an example, increasing investments in transit to attract more users will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. - **Create sustainable funding sources.** A continued reliance on federal grants, non-indexed user fees, and one-time increases in funding is not sustainable. Infrastructure projects require extensive time to plan, design, and permit. While transportation has historically benefitted from the fuel tax and state bonding, its purchasing power has diminished over the years. To address rising construction costs and accommodate the shift to electric vehicles, we must identify new funding sources to replace the declining fuel tax and user fees, such as the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC). - **Set responsible, resilient utility rates and user fees.** User fees should accurately reflect the true costs of using, maintaining, and improving our infrastructure. While many infrastructure owners can evaluate their own needs and set appropriate fees or bonding plans, a sustained educational initiative is crucial to inform the public about fee changes and assist smaller or resource-constrained utilities in financing options and outreach strategies. The public’s willingness to accept increased user fees for necessary infrastructure upgrades is essential, particularly when significant investments are needed. - **Educate and innovate:** Maine has an aging population possessing a wealth of expertise and practical knowledge that must be harnessed and shared to cultivate a skilled workforce for the future. The industry must adapt to the next generation to foster a dynamic and resilient work environment. By investing and embracing innovation and new technologies, opportunities exist to empower the workforce and ensure its ability to thrive and adapt in the years to come. **What’s next** State infrastructure report cards are a valuable advocacy tool at all levels of government. ASCE members are looking forward to discussing the new Report Card and steps to raise the grade with state lawmakers when they start the 2025 legislative session in January, and with Maine’s members of Congress during ASCE’s Legislative Fly-In, which takes place in March, immediately after the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Maine%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20grade%20improves%20to%20a%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Maine, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, State Report **Tags:** #climate, Environment, IIJA, infrastructure, investment, report card, resilience, transportation, workforce --- ### [Infrastructure Supported at the Ballot Box](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-success-election-2024/) **Published:** November 26, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Supported%20at%20the%20Ballot%20Box&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F11%2FBallot-Results-Blog-Image-Nov-2024.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Supported%20at%20the%20Ballot%20Box "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Supported%20at%20the%20Ballot%20Box&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Despite the uncertainty surrounding the future of infrastructure funding in the 119th Congress and a second Trump administration, infrastructure performed incredibly well in state and local elections on Election Day. Across the United States, voters approved or renewed billions of dollar infrastructure funding. Below is a summary of some of the ballot initiatives ASCE’s has been tracking over the last few months. **California** California voters were presented with two major infrastructure ballot measures on Election Day. The first measure, Proposition 4 (Prop. 4) would allow the state to issue $10 billion in environmental and climate resiliency bonds. Under Prop. 4, the bond prioritizes lower-income communities, and those most vulnerable to climate change, and requires annual audits to ensure government transparency. The measure was approved by California voters, winning nearly 60 percent of the vote. Prop. 4 will be the largest investment in climate resilience in the history of California. It is estimated the bonds will cost the state’s General Fund $400 million annually for the next 40 years. About $3.8 billion would be spent on water projects — half to improve water quality, the remainder on protecting the state from floods and droughts. The rest of the money would be spent on various initiatives including wildfire prevention, coastal lands protection, clean energy and agricultural projects. The second major question posed to Californians, Proposition 5 (Prop. 5), was defeated at the ballot box. It passed, Prop 5 would have made it easier for local governments to issue bonds to build critical infrastructure and affordable housing. Currently, California requires a two-thirds majority (66.67 percent) of voters in a given locality to approve the issuance of new bonds. Proposition 5 would have lowered the threshold to 55 percent. **Colorado** In Colorado, Proposition JJ (Prop JJ) asked voters weighed in on whether excess tax revenue derived from sports betting within the state should be refunded to casino and sports book operators or be invested in Colorado’s Water Plan. The public sent a clear message on Election Day, as it voted overwhelmingly in favor of the state keeping the excess sports gambling, with 76.4% voters supporting the measure. The additional tax revenue will primarily help fund projects like improving canals and headgates that bring water to farms and ranches throughout Colorado and funding conservation projects and drought plans. It will also help plus a looming funding gap. The Colorado Water Conservation Board, the state’s top water policy agency had estimated it will be asked to fund about $3.85 billion in water related loans and grants over the next 30 years, but funding was forecast to fall about $1.5 billion short prior to the approval of Prop JJ. **Oklahoma** In Oklahomans weighed in State Question 833, which asked voters on whether the state should allow the creation of public infrastructure districts (PIDs) to pay for infrastructure improvements like sidewalks, water lines, sewers and roadways. If passed, the measure would have allowed property owners within a city or town to create a public infrastructure district and sell bonds to pay for the improvements. It required 100% approval of surface property owners within the proposed district to create it before it could even be approved by the local municipality. Critics of the measure argued the PIDs would have created extra work for staff and elected officials and hurt tax revenue for public schools and local governments in the long run. The question failed statewide by a vote of 62% to 38%. **Rhode Island** Statewide bonds have a history of success in the Ocean State – a statewide bond measure has not failed in Rhode Island since 2006. This year was no exception. More than 67% voters chose to approve a $53 million “green bond” to address environmental-related infrastructure, recreation areas and green spaces issues in their state. The bond funding will be disturbed among nine different projects, including $15 million for improvements to the Port of Davisville, $10 million for the RI Infrastructure Bank to fund matching grants, $5 million for grants to clean up “brownfield “sites throughout the state, and $2 million for grants to public and non-profit entities to restore and improve the climate resilience of coastal habitats. **Local Ballot Initiatives** There were dozens more successful ballot measures at the local level on Election Day. Some notable examples are: - Four out of nine counties in South Carolina renewed or enacted a local sales tax that will provide $11.7 billion in funding for roads, bridges, and transit over the next 25 years; - Nashville, Tenn. voters approved a half-cent sales tax increase which will allow them to invest $3.1 billion in the city’s transit system, sidewalks, and roads; - Voters in Seattle, Wash. renewed a local property tax that over the next eight years will facilitate a $1.55 billion investment in the city’s transportation infrastructure; and - In Maricopa County, Ariz. votes renewed a half-penny sales tax, which will generate $14.9 billion for another 20 years for transit and transportation related initiatives. Overall, in 2024 voters have approved more than $41 Billion in new or renewed funding for roads, bridges, rail and other transportation infrastructure. This year’s successes are part of a larger trend. From 2014-2024 voters have approved 84% of all transit related ballot initiatives with a total local infrastructure investment of more than $390 billion over that same period. Considering the results of these ballot measures, the American public is demonstrating robust support for funding infrastructure projects that will directly benefit them and their communities. ASCE and other stakeholders should use the convincing outcomes of these ballot measures as a springboard to advocate for continued infrastructure support from the incoming Congress and administration. 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largest and most comprehensive federal infrastructure investment package in our nation’s history. The law allocated $1.2 trillion, including more than $500 billion in new funding, across each of the 18 categories of infrastructure outlined in ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. With broad public support, infrastructure is recognized as vital to protecting public safety and building a thriving economy. Prioritizing the built environment was apparent again on Election Day 2024, as many infrastructure ballot measures passed overwhelmingly in many states and localities. <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ASCE-IIJA-3-Year-Anniversary-Social-Video.mp4> Three years into the five-year legislation, let’s take a look at some of the progress that has been made. **PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS** To date, more than 60,000 projects have been announced as part of the IIJA, including: - More than 10,000 bridge projects connecting communities and improving economic efficiency. - More than 175,000 miles of roadway repairs or improvements. - More than 500 port and waterway projects to increase capacity and reliability for the movement of goods. - Over 11,000 public transit projects to diversify transportation modes and offer alternative solutions to those without vehicles. - 1,100 airport modernization projects. - Nearly 170 rail projects to expand and modernize passenger rail and tracks, which are used by both the freight and passenger rail networks. - More than 1,400 drinking water and wastewater to modernize aging systems and increase public health. This includes replacing up to 1.7 million lead pipes. - 12,000 miles of high-speed internet infrastructure. - More than 4,100 projects geared at improving community resilience. Investment in these systems save taxpayers money in the long run, and we’ve already begun to see the effects. ASCE’s recent economic study, Bridging the Gap, found that on average each American household saves $700 per year when IIJA funding becomes the new baseline for infrastructure investment. It’s easy to see why. When a manufacturing plant suffers an electrical outage, machines are costly to stop and start, and productivity plummets as workers stand idly by. Meanwhile, congested roadways and outdated freight systems translate to additional time to transport goods. The production of manufactured goods – everything from paper, paints, and food products to electronics, automobiles, and appliances – requires robust and adequately functioning infrastructure. These are just a few examples of how the strength of our built environment has compounding effects on the U.S. economy and individual households, and they underscore how the IIJA is making a difference. **RESILIENCE** The IIJA marked the largest investment in infrastructure resilience – $50 billion over five years – in U.S. history. Recent devastating storms – like Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in Fall 2024 – killed dozens of people and caused significant damage to communities across the entire Southeast. Among lessons learned is the importance of building structures that can withstand even the most severe and unpredictable weather. Ultimately, building to the most stringent codes and standards can prevent tragic loss of life and businesses and saves taxpayers money in the long run – every $1 spent on resilience leads to $6 in returns for taxpayers because the cost of a structure failing is significantly greater than the cost of building stronger on the front end. The IIJA has addressed these needs by providing $500 million to the STORM Act, which offers low interest loans to those investing in pre-disaster mitigation projects; providing more than $2.5 billion to ecosystem restoration to improve the strength of green infrastructure, which can help mitigate flooding or precipitation; more than $7 billion in flood mitigation projects through agencies such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA); and many more programs. Resilience is more than the built environment though . The bill targets improving cyber security as a form of resilience to ensure our grid and data are protected from outside threats. Cyber security breaches have been on the rise in recent years, further emphasizing the need for these programs. The bill invests $1.3 billion to increase funding for agencies that assess cyber security concerns, particularly those involved with monitoring the software that controls operations of infrastructure assets. **ONGOING CHALLENGES** Despite significant investment from the IIJA, as well as individual state initiatives improving conditions, challenges remain. Severe weather continues to pummel aging assets, bearing great costs to agencies, infrastructure owners, and businesses. According to NOAA, in 2024, natural disasters have amounted to damages of $24 billion. , which is already billions higher than the average from 2019-2023 ($20 billion/year). Additionally, the construction sector is still short on the number of engineers needed to see potential projects through, which threatens the impact of the IIJA. ASCE has partnered with the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) and the American Public Works Association (APWA) to create the Engineering & Public Works Roadshow and, most recently, the Engineering Workforce Consortium (EWC), which includes support from nearly two dozen additional industry stakeholders. The Roadshow is an opportunity to highlight projects across the country that demonstrate what smart infrastructure investments look like and how they benefit local communities, the economy, and the environment. The EWC has a singular focus to address and provide solutions to the workforce shortage facing the engineering and public works industries. With two years left on the IIJA, projects are making a major impact including improving economic efficiency. We look forward to working with the incoming Congress and administration on how to prioritize these investments moving forward. 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That grade is a one-step improvement over the ‘D+’ grade the state received in 2020 and matches the national grade from the *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. Four of the 12 infrastructure categories (Bridges, Dams, Rail, and Solid Waste) saw their grades increase compared to the previous Report Card, while two categories (Drinking Water and Wastewater) saw their grades drop one level compared to the 2020 Report Card. | **Grade** | **Categories** | |---|---| | B | Rail | | B- | Ports | | C+ | Solid Waste | | C | Aviation, Energy | | D+ | Bridges, Dams | | D | Inland Waterways, Levees | | D- | Drinking Water, Roads, Wastewater | ##### **Focus on water infrastructure, current funding is just a drop in the bucket** The only two categories to see grade decreases in the 2024 Report Card for Mississippi’s Infrastructure were Drinking Water and Wastewater. Both fell from a ‘D’ in 2020 to a ‘D-’ in 2024. The 2022 water crisis in Jackson revealed the dangerous consequences to public health and safety that come from decades of underinvestment and deferred maintenance of life-sustaining water systems. Lawmakers at all levels acted after the Jackson water crisis by increasing funding for water systems to support maintenance and improvement projects. These investments are making a big impact as maintenance and improvement projects take hold across the state. However, many of these projects are ongoing and have not yet been registered in available data, which is why they have not led to improving grades during this report’s cycle. The long-term reliability of water systems requires consistent, reliable, and sustainable funding to prevent a repeat of what Mississippians saw in Jackson two years ago. Mississippi has more than $8 billion in water system funding needs, according to the EPA’s Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment over the next two decades, an increase from $4.6 billion in the last report card. Current funding only covers a small percentage of those needs. Much of the need for water systems is for repair and rehabilitation of existing systems where user fees primarily cover operating costs and not long-term needs. Another problem water systems face in Mississippi is a high rate of treated water that is lost due to leaks. Some systems lose more than 30 percent of treated water, which is twice the industry standard. Jackson’s water system loss is more than 40 percent. Wastewater systems in Mississippi are also aging and face large repair costs. The consequences of a wastewater system failure are both a public health and environmental hazard, as untreated wastewater can overflow into rivers and other water sources when systems are overwhelmed. ##### **Roads and bridges: moving toward better conditions** Mississippi’s bridges saw a two-step grade increase to a ‘D+’ in the 2024 Report Card, compared to a ‘D-’ in 2020. Over the last four years, the percentage of bridges in poor condition dropped from 9.8 percent to 6.3 percent. However, in this same timeframe, the percentage of bridges in good condition fell from 58.4 percent to 56.1 percent, and the number of bridges that have limits on the weight they can carry grew by more than 400. The grade for roads in Mississippi is unchanged in the 2024 report card at a ‘D-’. Of the roads where pavement condition information exists, 24.3 percent are in poor condition, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is only able to rehabilitate five percent of the poor condition roads every year. The state also estimates it has a $400 million funding gap for roads every year. Mississippi also has the highest rate of roadway fatalities, with 25 deaths per 100,000 people annually and 43 percent of all roadway deaths are related to drunk driving. ##### **Mississippi’s infrastructure helps power America’s economy** Mississippi’s location along the Gulf Coast helps drive the economy of the state and nation, with ports and inland waterways playing an important role in getting products in and out of the United States. Ports received the highest grade on the Report Card of ‘B-’, the same grade as in 2020. The state’s ports generate $17 billion in gross state product annually and support one out of every ten jobs in Mississippi. Many ports in the state saw extensive rehabilitation projects after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, while other ports built during the 1950s are nearing the end of their service life and lack updates to prepare them for severe weather and hurricanes. As shipping companies start using larger ships to move goods, expansion projects are needed to ensure Mississippi’s ports can receive those ships. The state’s inland waterways, which help get products to and from ports, received a ‘D’ grade, the same as in 2020. Barges on those waterways face frequent delays and need extensive improvements so they can remain a reliable economic driver for the state. It is estimated Mississippi’s inland waterways need nearly $5 billion in upgrades over the next 20 years. ##### **How to raise the grade** The *Report Card for Mississippi’s Infrastructure* includes four recommendations to raise the grade. - Ensure that infrastructure investment is strategically focused on efforts that maximize good-paying jobs, promote the state’s economic competitiveness, and enhance usability so that all Mississippians continue to proudly call our state home. - Increase funding for state agencies to ensure these critical agencies can carry out their mandated missions. Insufficient funding for decades has resulted in a lack of proper staffing, leading to delays in permitting, necessary approvals, and project execution, causing delayed or missed economic investments across the state. - Design, operate, maintain, and expand Mississippi’s infrastructure systems using consensus-based codes, specifications, and standards that reduce the potential loss of jobs, economic opportunity, and critical natural resources. This includes advancing resiliency and mitigation measures to ensure better long-term use of taxpayer dollars. - Invest in programs for technical career training – especially in the drinking water and wastewater sectors. Not only can investment help retain Mississippi’s talent and prevent continued “brain drain,” but it can also help mainstream tools for data-driven decision-making, such as the use of asset management software and life-cycle cost analysis to inform affordable rate structuring for the use of our infrastructure systems. ##### **What’s next** State infrastructure report cards are a valuable advocacy tool at all levels of government. ASCE members are looking forward to discussing the new Report Card and steps to raise the grade with state lawmakers when they start the 2025 legislative session in January, and with Mississippi’s members of Congress during ASCE’s Legislative Fly-In, which takes place in March, immediately after the release of the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* ##### **Thank You** ASCE Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives Department would like to thank every member who contributed their time and energy to researching and writing the *2024 Report Card for Mississippi’s Infrastructure*. **Committee Chair** Jennifer Sloan Ziegler **Release And Logistics Support** William D. Carruth Sarah McEwen Christy Prouty Dennis Truax **Authors/Contributors** Payton Billingsley Wayne Black Patrick Border James Buras Aaron Cagle Jacob Forrester Brent French Phillip Gibson Josh Hancock Tom Henderson Edith Martinez‐Guerra Blake Palmer Dustin Pittman Alex Reeb Laurel Lynn Rowse [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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As the clock winds down on the 118th Congress, Capitol Hill now turns its attention to addressing critical outstanding items before January 3rd when the new Congress will be sworn in. The House and Senate will enter the final stretch of this Congress, commonly referred to as the “lame duck” session, needing to pass several key bills, including legislation to keep the federal government open and operating, relief for states and communities affected by the recent deadly hurricanes, disaster mitigation legislation, and a critical water resources infrastructure package. **Appropriations** Above almost all else, Congress must pass legislation to extend funding for the federal government before leaving for the holidays in December. In September, [Congress passed a continuing resolution](https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/hr9747/BILLS-118hr9747ih.pdf) to keep the federal government funded until December 20th. With Republicans winning control of the House, Senate, and White House in last week’s election, it is likely that the GOP will want to pass a second continuing resolution going past early January once the new Congress is seated. With full control of the government, Republicans will have the necessary leverage to pass a Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations bill in line with their own policy agenda. This is likely to include significant spending cuts to non-defense government programs. **Disaster Relief** Congress will also need to pass an aid package providing disaster relief to states and communities affected by Hurricanes Milton and Helene, which devastated areas across the Southern Untied States’ coasts and interior last month. The continuing resolution passed in September allowed the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to access more than $20 billion for disaster relief efforts, however, much of that has been used by FEMA to respond to immediate needs in affected areas. FEMA’s disaster relief fund will need to be replenished to help affected areas rebuild and improve resilience to future storms. In addition, the Small Business Administration depleted its disaster loan funds in mid-October, meaning any aid package will likely need to include additional funds to allow this program to continue to allocate needed relief to businesses affected by the storms. There is widespread agreement among Republicans and Democrats on the need to pass an aid package. How much funding will be in that package is unclear, as some Republicans are calling for a smaller package with additional spending cuts to offset new funding. In the aftermath of hurricanes Milton and Helene, Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) chose not to bring the House back from its October recess to vote on an aid package, preferring to push consideration until after the election. **Reauthorization of Earthquake and Wind Hazard Reduction Programs** The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Programs (NEHRP) and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP) are relatively small programs whose authorizations have expired. These two programs are critical to the resilience of the nation’s infrastructure. Both programs provide the needed research to better understand the impact of earthquakes and wind hazards on our nation’s infrastructure. Additionally, the federal research provided by both the [NEHRP](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2023-06-14-asce-letter-senate-commerce-cmte-nehpr-nwirp.pdf) and [NWIRP](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2024-09-24-asce-science-committee-letter-hr-9723.pdf) programs are instrumental to the development of standards such as *ASCE-7, Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structure*s, as well as other consensus-based standards related to seismic and wind load design. In July, the Seante Commerce Committee approved S. 3606, the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program Reauthorization Act of 2024 which would reauthorize NEHRP for five years at an annual authorization of $174 million. Meanwhile in September, the House Science Committee approved H.R. 9723, the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program Reauthorization (NWIRP) Act of 2024, a five year extension of the program with an annual authorization of $37 million. ASCE will continue to work with Congress in hopes of completing the reauthorization of both programs. **WRDA 2024** Finally, a high priority for the lame duck session is passage of a final Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) for 2024. WRDA is Congress’s biennial legislation authorizing new water resources projects (dams, levees, ports, inland waterways, etc.) and studies for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. WRDA is often seen as a model of bipartisan cooperation, as it has been passed and signed into law every two years since 2014. Both the House and the Senate [passed their own respective WRDA bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act-of-2024/) this summer, and conference committee negotiations to produce a final WRDA agreement have continued throughout the fall. ASCE has been involved in the WRDA process throughout 2024, and passage of the bill with certain key provisions is a top legislative priority. Among key provisions in the two bills which ASCE strongly supports is reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program (Sec. 128 of the House bill, [H.R. 8812](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/wrda_amdt_-_047_anonymous.pdf)). The National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) is the primary source of federal funding for state dam safety programs, providing state assistance grants to support dam inspection and monitoring, emergency preparedness, and staff training and other needs. The NDSP’s legislative authority expired on September 30, 2023, and has been operating on previously appropriated funds since that time. Provisions in the House WRDA bill, which were not included in the Senate bill, would reauthorize the program through 2028, increase the amount of funding states could receive in state assistance grants, and make improvements to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program- which provides grants to make repairs to dams which pose the greatest risk to communities. ASCE, along with the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, helped lead advocacy efforts supporting inclusion of NDSP reauthorization in WRDA 2024. In September, [ASCE led several partner organizations in a letter](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2024-09-04-asce-coalition-letter-wrda-2024-national-dam-safety-program.pdf) to the House and Senate encouraging inclusion of NDSP reauthorization in any final WRDA agreement. The Senate’s WRDA bill ([S. 4367](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4367/text/is)) is slightly more slimmed down than the House bill, but it includes several key policy provisions. In particular, the Senate bill contains an adjustment of the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) cost share formula which ASCE has long supported. Under this provision, funding for 75 percent of costs for inland waterways projects would be funded using general government funds, while 25 percent of funding would come from the IWTF. The current general fund- IWTF project cost share is 65%-35%. The cost share adjustment in the Senate’s WRDA bill would fulfill a recommendation from the [Inland Waterways chapter of ASCE’s 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/). The proposed cost share adjustment in the Senate’s WRDA bill was not included in the House’s bill. To learn more about this year’s House and Senate WRDA bills, we encourage you to read [ASCE’s WRDA 2024 policy memo](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2024-07-11-asce-policy-memo-wrda-2024.pdf). This document outlines key provisions in both WRDA bills, as well as ASCE’s position on these provisions. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Wisconsin%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20grade%20improves%20in%202024&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On September 17th, the Wisconsin Section of ASCE released the *[2024 Report Card for Wisconsin’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wisconsin/)* at the state capitol building in Madison. The Report Card evaluated 17 infrastructure categories, and Wisconsin’s infrastructure received a ‘C+’ grade, a one-step improvement over the 2020 Report Card. Twelve of the 17 categories evaluated on the Report Card received grades higher than the *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The grades for each category are below. | Grade | Categories | |---|---| | B | Hazardous Waste, Rail, Solid Waste | | B- | Ports | | C+ | Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Energy | | C | Drinking Water, Roads, Stormwater | | C- | Broadband, Inland Waterways | | D+ | Transit, Wastewater | | D | Public Parks | | I (Incomplete) | Schools | ## Highlights of the Wisconsin Report Card for 2024 Wisconsin is the first ASCE State Report Card to include a graded broadband chapter, which received a ‘C-’ grade. Due to its increasing importance, broadband has been deemed “the fourth utility,” following roads, water, and energy. Broadband access and the electric grid that supports it remain a significant equity issue for Wisconsin families as our society transitions into more online-centered work and schooling environments. Wisconsin has a goal of universal broadband access by the year 2030. However, current funding for that project is more than $1 billion lower than the projected cost to finish that project. ![Members of the ASCE Wisconsin Section present the 2024 Report Card for Wisconsin’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-wisconsin-report-card-release-400x194.jpg "2024-wisconsin-report-card-release")Members of the ASCE Wisconsin Section present the 2024 Report Card for Wisconsins Infrastructure at the State Capitol in MadisonThe Wisconsin Infrastructure Report Card also examined the impact the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is having on the state, especially its roads and bridges. The IIJA has provided more than $2 billion in funding for the state’s surface transportation systems. Roads in Wisconsin received a ‘C’ grade, an increase from a ‘D+’ in 2020. The Report Card found that roads in Wisconsin are meeting the state’s goals for pavement conditions. However, Wisconsin drivers lose nearly two billion dollars a year in lost time and wasted fuel because of traffic backups. Additionally, drivers in the Milwaukee and Madison area spend more than 40 hours a year stuck in traffic. The ‘C+’ grade for Wisconsin’s bridges is the same as in 2020. The Report Card found the rate of improvement for the state’s bridge inventory has stalled, and in 2023, 6.3% of bridges had a major structural component in “poor” condition, which is slightly ahead of the national average of 6.5%. While improvement is recommended, poor condition ratings do not mean a structure is unsafe, but they require significant maintenance or replacement. Also new to this year’s Report Card are assessments of the state’s public parks and schools. Schools had not previously been evaluated in the Infrastructure Report Card. Unfortunately, there is not enough information to provide an accurate assessment of the schools based on current conditions, which earned the category an ‘I’ for incomplete. Parks earned a ‘D’ grade, in part due to the neglect of infrastructure in state and local parks stemming from reductions in government funding at all levels. Contamination from “forever chemicals” or PFAS in drinking water sources has created a challenge regarding water supply and wastewater concerns at state parks, and additional revenue is needed to address such issues. ## Wisconsin’s 2024 Report Card Release Event At the release event, leaders heard from Report Card Chair Ken Mika, P.E., and Co-Chair Zoey Meyers, EIT, about the report card’s findings. They also heard from Debby Jackson from the Wisconsin Transportation Development Association and Eric Dundee from the Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District about the importance of good infrastructure for Wisconsinites. We’d like to thank all the ASCE members who contributed their time and energy to the Report Card. Their hard work over the last year will help ASCE members in their advocacy for infrastructure at all levels of government. The *2024 Report Card for Wisconsin’s Infrastructure* Committee includes **Committee Co-Chairs** - Ken Mika - Zoey Meyers **Editing and Logistics Support** - Carl Sutter - Darrell Berry - David Sonne - Martin Hanson **Authors/Contributors** *Category leads are listed in bold.* **Aviation** - **Ryan Betker** **Bridges** - **Tony Castle** - Josh Mitchell **Broadband** - **Vik Verma** **Dams** - **Seth Johnson** - Warren Hayden - Uriah Monday **Drinking Water** - **Justin Bilskemper** **Energy** - **Greg Shroeder** - Bill Kralj - Bruce Ramme - Blaine Wruck, PE **Hazardous Waste** - **Carol Diggelman** **Inland Waterways** - **Michael Schwar** **Ports** - **Craig Harley** **Public Parks** - **John McCarthy** **Rail** - **Joanna Bush** **Roads** - **Madison Anderson** **Schools** - **Brian Udovich** - Crystal Strait **Solid Waste** - **Carol Diggelman** **Stormwater** - **Jake Brunoehler** **Transit** - **Bob Bryson** - Jesse Jefferson **Wastewater** - **Jen Hurlebaus** - Laura Gerold 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Engineers](https://www.asce.org/) (ASCE) released the *2024 Report Card for Oregon’s Infrastructure* outside the State Capitol Building in Salem. Oregon’s infrastructure received a grade of ‘C-’, which is the same grade the Beaver State’s infrastructure received on its 2019 Report Card. This grade also matches the national infrastructure grade from the *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure****.*** Seven of the 12 categories evaluated in the Oregon Infrastructure Report Card received grades higher than the National Report Card. Two categories (energy and wastewater) received the same grade as their national counterparts, while two other categories (bridges and ports) have a grade lower than the national average. Oregon’s schools received an incomplete grade due to a lack of current data on school conditions. | **Grade** | **Infrastructure Categories** | |---|---| | **C** | Drinking Water, Inland Waterways, Roads | | **C-** | Aviation, Bridges, Energy, Ports | | **D+** | Dams, Stormwater, Transit, Wastewater | | **I** | Schools | ![Oregon infrastructure report card for 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Marsia-at-OR-2024-RC-Release-400x267.jpg "Marsia at OR 2024 RC Release")ASCE President Marsia Geldert Murphey talks about the importance of infrastructure investment at the Oregon Report Card ReleaseASCE President Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E. attended the release event and spoke about the importance of infrastructure investment at all levels – highlighting the findings of ASCE’s [*Bridging the Gap*](http://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) *Economic Study,* which was released earlier this year. Attendees also heard from Ron Stillmaker, the President of Professional Engineers of Oregon, Oregon State Representative Mark Gamba, Oregon State Senator Aaron Woods, and 1,000 Friends of Oregon Transportation Policy Manager Cassie Wilson. ## The State of Oregon’s Transportation Infrastructure Oregon’s roads received a ‘C’ grade, while bridges received a ‘C-’, both of which are a one-step grade decrease from the 2019 Report Card. The percentage of state highways in poor condition grew from 10 percent in the 2019 Report Card to 12 percent in the 2024 Report Card. During the same time, the number of roads in good condition decreased from 65 percent to 58 percent. Oregon has made some progress in reducing the number of bridges in poor condition from 5.2 percent to 4.8 percent. However, there is a growing number of bridges that have been downgraded from good to fair condition. Many bridges in Oregon are also close to or exceeding their design life, with 53 percent of bridges in the state more than 50 years old. Current funding levels for bridge maintenance provide only about half the projected need to keep the state’s bridges in their current condition. While the “Keep Oregon Moving” law passed in 2017 has funded more than 140 transportation projects over the last few years, the state anticipates 2024 is the final year the state will see an increase in gas tax revenues which help fund road and bridge construction, and the Oregon Department of Transportation anticipates having a $720 million budget deficit by 2027 unless long-term funding solutions are put in place. ## The State of Oregon’s Water Infrastructure ![Oregon's Infrastructure 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/OR-Report-Card-Release-Panel-400x267.jpg "OR Report Card Release Panel") Oregon’s drinking water grade increased from a ‘C-’ to a ‘C’ in the 2024 Report Card. More than 99 percent of the state’s drinking water systems meet standards for safe drinking water set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, more than 400,000 Oregonians rely on private water sources like wells which are largely unregulated. As water systems prepare for a new rule that requires the removal of lead service lines, the EPA estimates Oregon has approximately 3,350 lead water service lines, which is 0.04 percent of all lines in the state. That number is low because many of Oregon’s water pipes were installed in the last 50 years when utilities started using other materials for water service lines. However, other parts of the state’s water infrastructure are much older and will need to be replaced or upgraded to meet current needs. Additionally, water utilities also face new costs as they comply with rules requiring them to monitor for dangerous forever chemicals in drinking water. The Report Card estimates Oregon’s drinking water systems need $10 billion in additional funding over 20 years to ensure the state has safe and reliable drinking water. ## How Resilient Is Oregon’s Infrastructure? The Oregon Infrastructure Report Card found that almost all infrastructure systems need improvements in their resilience to combat the effects of climate change and earthquakes. Much of the state’s infrastructure was built before modern seismic codes were adopted, which means those systems will likely see extensive damage should a large earthquake hit the state before retrofits are completed. Oregon’s dams received a ‘D+’ grade in part because nearly two-thirds of the state’s dams are more than 50 years old and are not built to withstand a strong earthquake or the stronger, more frequent flooding conditions communities are now experiencing. The state’s energy infrastructure, which received a ‘C-’ grade, also has resiliency needs that must be addressed to ensure it can withstand a seismic event. The Oregon Infrastructure Report Card found that much of the state’s energy distribution network would also suffer extensive damage from a large earthquake, which would lead to extended outages and a prolonged recovery. While state leaders have taken steps to improve the security and resilience of the state’s energy network by developing the Oregon Energy Security Plan, the improvements to ensure the reliability and redundancy of the energy network will require a large financial investment. ## ASCE Recommendations for Oregon’s Infrastructure The *Report Card for Oregon’s Infrastructure* also includes five recommendations to raise the state’s grade. - Secure dedicated and sustainable funding sources to ensure long-term maintenance and improvement of Oregon’s infrastructure. This should focus on consistent long-term funding solutions rather than short-term influxes of money. - Implement comprehensive resiliency measures for infrastructure systems against natural and man-made disasters. This should be a comprehensive, all-hazard assessment that evaluates the likelihood and consequences of a possible event. It should also look at mitigation strategies and address the recovery and return to service of infrastructure systems. - Strengthen regulatory frameworks and enforcement to ensure the public safety and resiliency of critical infrastructure. This includes implementing Emergency Action Plans for high-hazard dams, Oregon Energy Security Plan recommendations, and new regulations requiring seismic vulnerability assessments and mitigations for large fuel handling facilities. - Utilize asset management systems to optimize spending. These programs include life-cycle cost considerations, identifying and prioritizing critical system components, conducting condition assessments, and establishing operations and maintenance plans. This approach should prioritize essential repairs and replacement projects and include long-term capital budgeting. - Address the skilled workforce shortage and increase public participation to support long-term infrastructure improvements and community engagement. ASCE’s Oregon section will now use the new Report Card to advocate for infrastructure needs across the state at the local, state, and federal levels. State Report Cards are a volunteer effort by expert engineers and infrastructure professionals. We’d like to thank every report card committee who worked hard to provide Oregonians with a comprehensive look at the state’s infrastructure conditions, needs, and a path forward to improving the grades. #### ***2024 Report Card for Oregon’s Infrastructure Volunteers*** REPORT CARD CHAIR **Ana Tijerina Esquino** RELEASE AND LOGISTICS SUPPORT London Howell-Farley, Chris Knight, PE **AUTHORS/CONTRIBUTORS** *Category leads are listed in bold* Aviation **Tom Peterson, PE (ret.) MASCE,** Blaine Wruck, PE, Ana Tijerina Esquino Lindsi Hammond Bridges **Hanmin Wang, PE, PhD,** Josh Goodell, PE, Nan Hua, PE, PhD, M.ASCE, Shuchen Han, PE Dams **Kayla Sorenson,** Kelcy Ademec, PE, Liam Wallace, PE Drinking Water **Bryan Batton, Robert Olney,** Larry Magura, PE Energy **Ana Tijerina Esquino,** Robert Schomp, Blaine Wruck, PE, Tom Peterson, PE (ret.) MASCE, Allison Pyrch, G.E., P.E., Leon Kempner Inland Waterways **Tom Peterson, PE (ret.) MASCE,** Austin Deanhardt Ports **Austin Deanhardt,** Tom Peterson, PE (ret.) MASCE Roads **London Howell-Farley, Blaine Wruck, PE,** Levi Warriner, PE Schools **Richard Steinbrugge, PE (ret.), M.ASCE** Stormwater **Andrea Boyd, P.E.,** Carrie Pak, P.E., Teresa Huntsinger Transit **Perrin Falkner, PE,** London Howell-Farley, EIT, Michelle Wyffels, Robert L. Lund Jr., PE Wastewater **Todd Martinez, P.E.,** Ana Tijerina Esquino [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Oregon%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Receives%20a%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%99%20in%202024&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F08%2FOR-Report-Card-2024-Feat-Image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Oregon%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Receives%20a%20%E2%80%98C-%E2%80%99%20in%202024 "Share on 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roads, state report cards, transit, wastewater --- ### [Infrastructure Is on the Ballot in 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-is-on-the-ballot-in-2024/) **Published:** August 23, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Is%20on%20the%20Ballot%20in%202024&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F08%2Fvoting-on-infrastructure.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Is%20on%20the%20Ballot%20in%202024 "Share on 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The 2024 election cycle has been an eventful one, and the suspense will continue building as November approaches. While candidates and political parties often garner the most attention leading up to Election Day, many important ballot initiatives will be put before voters at the state and local level. The following is a summary of some of the engineering and infrastructure-related initiatives ASCE will be monitoring across the country on Election Day. ## California Proposition 4 & 5 On November 5, Californians will vote on a pair of ballot propositions that could transform the state by facilitating enormous investments in its public infrastructure. If passed, [Proposition 4](https://lao.ca.gov/BallotAnalysis/Proposition?number=4&year=2024) would allow the state to issue $10 billion in bonds to fund projects to improve California’s water supply, tackle sea-level rise, and invest in its energy infrastructure, among other infrastructure improvements. This would make it the largest investment in climate resilience in the history of California. Moreover, Proposition 4 would require at least 40 percent of the total bond money to be used for activities that directly impact lower-income and vulnerable communities, few of which have received funding from previous bond efforts. The language of California Proposition 4 would also require regular public disclosure of how the money is being spent. If approved, it is estimated repayment of the bonds authorized under Prop 4 would cost the state’s General Fund $400 million annually for the next 40 years. A second ballot initiative, [Proposition 5](https://lao.ca.gov/BallotAnalysis/Proposition?number=5&year=2024), would amend the California constitution by lowering the super majority required for cities, counties, and other local jurisdictions to issue bonds for affordable housing and public infrastructure projects. Currently, California requires a two-thirds majority (66.67 percent) of voters to approve the issuance of new bonds. Proposition 5 would lower the threshold to 55 percent. The measure was placed on the ballot by the California legislature to address the state’s well-publicized housing shortage and the challenges local governments currently face in borrowing money to develop critical infrastructure projects. ## Colorado Ballot Initiatives Colorado’s legislature is asking the state’s voters to decide if excess tax revenue derived from [sports betting within the state](https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb24-1436) should be refunded to casino and sports book operators or be invested in Colorado’s Water Plan (CWP), through a fund administered by the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB). The CWCB was developed by the Colorado state legislature to determine how to optimize the conservation and development of the state’s water resources. In its 2023 Water Plan, CWCB estimated it will need $1.5 billion to support water projects in Colorado by 2050. This ballot initiative is a byproduct of the success of sports betting as a state revenue generator. In 2019, Colorado voters legalized sports betting and enacted a ten percent tax on its proceeds. The original ballot measure allowed for annual revenues of more than $29 million to be returned to sports book operators, but because sports betting has become so popular, revenues are projected to exceed the current limit. Since coming into effect in 2020, sports betting has already generated more than $60 million for investment in the CWP. ## Oklahoma Ballot Initiatives In Oklahoma, voters will be asked to decide if an amendment should be made to the state’s constitution allowing municipalities to create “[public infrastructure districts](http://webserver1.lsb.state.ok.us/cf_pdf/2023-24%20ENR/SRES/SJR16%20ENR.PDF)” (PID). These districts would have the authority to issue bonds for public improvements to roads, sidewalks, water, sewer, and other infrastructure. The PIDs districts would be governed by a Board of Trustees with the power to levy a special assessment on properties benefitting from any improvement projects. The proposed constitutional amendment could make a serious impact on infrastructure investment in the Sooner State. However, the language of the amendment stipulates that the creation of PIDs would require petition signatures from 100 percent of all landowners in the affected area before a PID could be created. ## Rhode Island Ballot Measures On Election Day, Rhode Islanders will consider whether to approve a $53 million “[green bond](https://dem.ri.gov/about-us/featured-initiatives/2024-green-bond)” to address environmental-related infrastructure, recreation areas and green spaces issues in their state. For many years, Rhode Islanders have weighed in on approving various bond measures to help fund similar projects throughout Rhode Island. This year voters are being asked to approve a bond funding nine different projects across the state, including: - $15 million for improvements to the Port of Davisville. The funding will help create “new berthing space, port access roads, cargo laydown area improvements, and security upgrades” for Rhode Island’s only public port; - $10 million for RI Infrastructure Bank to fund matching grants of up to 75% to directly support Rhode Island’s cities and towns to improve the resilience of vulnerable infrastructure and coastal habitats; - $5 million for matching grants to clean up “brownfield “sites throughout the state; and - $2 million for matching grants to public and non-profit entities to restore and/or improve the climate resilience of vulnerable coastal habitats. Sign up for ASCE email updates to stay on top of developments on these and over two dozen statewide ballot initiatives ASCE’s government relations team will be tracking leading up to the November general election. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Is%20on%20the%20Ballot%20in%202024&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, infrastructure, infrastructure investment --- ### [Congress Moves Forward With Water Resources Bill (WRDA 2024)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-moves-forward-with-wrda-2024/) **Published:** June 27, 2024 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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You can read ASCE’s statement on the passing of H.R. 8812 here: <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act-of-2024/> This week, the House of Representatives took a big step toward passing its biennial water resources bill. The [Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 (H.R. 8812)](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/wrda_amdt_-_047_anonymous.pdf) was formally introduced on Tuesday and was marked up by the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee on Wednesday. The bill authorizes 12 new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) water resources projects and 159 project feasibility studies. These projects and studies pertain to multiple efforts to improve the nation’s water resources infrastructure, including navigation projects, hurricane and storm damage risk reduction, flood risk management, and ecosystem restoration. In addition to projects and feasibility studies, WRDA 2024 includes several key policy changes. Most notably, the bill includes a reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, a top legislative priority for ASCE. The program’s legislative authority officially expired on September 30th of last year. This provision includes language from two bills supported by ASCE and led by Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC) and Ann Kuster (D-NH). [H.R. 5014](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/5104?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=2&r=6) – the National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act –and [H.R. 6931](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/6931?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=2&r=4) – the NDSP Amendment Act – together contain provisions that extend the National Dam Safety Program through 2028, ease restrictions on the amount of funds states can receive in-state assistance grants, and improve access to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program. This program provides competitive grants for rehabilitation projects for dams, which pose the greatest risk to downstream communities. It also requires the incorporation of low-head dams into the National Inventory of Dams. The [2022 WRDA](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4136/text#toc-idD9FCD845FE5645A9981267D5C9381E25) law officially authorized the creation of a national inventory of low-head dams, which are smaller, river-spanning structures that produce dangerous and undetectable currents and pose a risk to public safety. The House Water Resources bill also incorporates policy pertaining to the nation’s inland waterways. It includes the Inland Waterways Regional Dredge Pilot Program, which was created in WRDA 2022, and focuses on projects that improve navigation reliability and increase freight capacity. It would also authorize a new national coastal mapping program to support USACE navigation, flood risk management, environmental restoration, and emergency operations missions. Additionally, the House’s WRDA bill includes an extension of the National Levee Safety Program through 2033. In 2022, WRDA officially reauthorized the program through 2028, allowing it to continue to take shape and build a structure to support states in monitoring and improving the safety of the nation’s levee systems. During the House markup, an amendment was considered that would have stripped this provision from the bill, but it was ultimately defeated and not included. ## The House Water Resources Bill Vs. The Senate’s The House’s action follows the Senate’s markup of its WRDA 2024 bill on May 22nd. The [Senate’s bill (S. 4367)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4367/text/is), takes a more slimmed-down approach by authorizing fewer projects and feasibility studies and making fewer policy changes. The Senate’s water resources bill did not include reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program or address the low-head dam inventory. However, the committee did vote to advance a separate bill ([S. 4359](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/4359?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22national+dam+safety+program%22%7D&s=3&r=1)) which reauthorizes the National Dam Safety Program and extends the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant program through 2029. The Senate WRDA did not include changes to the Inland Waterways Regional Dredge Pilot Program or the creation of a national coastal mapping program, both of which were included in the House bill. The Senate bill does, however, include an adjustment of the federal cost share for Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) projects, proposing a requirement that only 25 percent of project costs come from the IWTF and the rest be drawn from the General Fund. This adjustment was recommended in the [Inland Waterways chapter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Inland-Waterways-2021.pdf) of ASCE’s *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* This provision was also included in the Senate’s 2022 water resources bill, but was ultimately not included in the final law. The 2022 WRDA law did, however, permanently extend the current 65-35 percent cost share formula. With the completion of committee markups, the House and Senate will next vote on final passage of their respective WRDA bills. This will be followed by negotiations by a House-Senate conference committee to iron out differences between the two bills and produce an agreement to be passed and signed into law later this year. Should Congress pass a final WRDA agreement this year, it would mark the sixth consecutive time that WRDA has passed on its intended biennial schedule. This will provide greater certainty to USACE as it moves forward with project planning and development, and ensure that consistent efforts are continually made to improve the nation’s water resources infrastructure. ASCE will continue to monitor developments with the 2024 Water Resources Development Act. [Please visit our website](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/letters-comments-and-statements) to view updates to ASCE’s advocacy efforts, including upcoming policy memos, support letters, and other key updates over the course of the coming weeks. 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**Author:** Guest Author **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Industry%20experts%20urge%20legislators%20to%20%E2%80%9Cstay%20the%20course%E2%80%9D%20on%20funding%2C%20and%20leverage%20infrastructure%20investment%20opportunities&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F06%2Fbridging-the-gap-350x200-1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Industry%20experts%20urge%20legislators%20to%20%E2%80%9Cstay%20the%20course%E2%80%9D%20on%20funding%2C%20and%20leverage%20infrastructure%20investment%20opportunities "Share on 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for American households and businesses and drawing more private investment interest into the U.S. market, according to new reports from industry experts. However, increasingly severe weather events, unpredictable travel patterns, an uptick in energy demand, and shifts in carbon emission policies pose challenges to covering the full scope of infrastructure investment needs long-term. ‘[Bridging the Gap](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/)’, a once-every-four-year economic report from the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org) (ASCE), finds that each American household saves $700 per year when current federal infrastructure spending – established by the $550 billion in new funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) – become the baseline for funding. Under the “Continuing to Act” scenario, each U.S. household loses $2,000 per year due to faulty infrastructure; in the “Snapback” to pre-IIJA funding levels scenario, those losses amount to $2,700 yearly. In addition to the benefits for families, infrastructure investment pays dividends to businesses. By 2033, the country’s exports will save $1 trillion, and U.S. GDP will improve by more than $630 billion when these investment levels are maintained, rather than “snapping back” to pre-IIJA funding levels when the law expires in 2026. The ASCE report analyzes the costs to households, businesses, and U.S. GDP when infrastructure isn’t working properly – potholes leading to car repairs, poorly designed transportation systems causing bottlenecks, water main breaks shutting down businesses and forcing residents to buy bottled water, power outages interrupting manufacturing processes. Each interruption to our economy due to insufficient infrastructure has cascading effects, which ultimately are paid for by U.S. consumers, reducing their buying power and stalling economic growth. ![Two men in business attire sit across from each other at a marble conference table with microphones, mid-conversation in a formal office setting.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Marsia_GIIA-Podcast-400x300.jpg "Marsia_GIIA Podcast")Jon Phillips CEO Global Infrastructure Investor Association GIIA left and Marsia Geldert Murphey President American Society of Civil Engineers ASCE right discussing investment needs and outlooks at US Chamber of CommerceDecades of inaction and underinvestment caused the gap in America’s federal infrastructure spending to grow at an accelerated pace, allowing systems to age without proper maintenance or expansion. As a result, the investment gap, comparing needs to planned expenditures, grew to $2.9 trillion over ten years. The ASCE report shows that the IIJA and IRA helped to stop the bleeding, as the new investment gap prediction remains at $2.9 trillion if these investment levels continue. However, reverting to pre-IIJA levels would cause the gap to increase to $3.7 trillion by 2033. This underinvestment in federal infrastructure spending has an outsized impact on the manufacturing industry, which would lose more than $280 billion in production costs by 2033 if current funding levels “snap back” in 2026. ## How Private Investments Can Support Federal Infrastructure Spending & Help Close Funding Gaps While the new federal investments have played a significant role in stopping the growth of the infrastructure gap, it takes action and buy-in from state and local governments along with private investment to help close it. Luckily, more predictable funding from the federal government is drawing major interest from private investors. Data from the [Global Infrastructure Investor Association’s](https://giia.net/) (GIIA) latest [Pulse Survey](https://giia.net/insights/q2-2024-pulse-survey-results-are-now-live) of its members shows that the U.S. is the number one most attractive investment destination for investors worldwide, representing a surge of new interest since the passage of bipartisan infrastructure bills. Like any investor looking to be part of a business, they need dependable partners to help reduce risk and ensure they get a fair return on their investment. For this to happen, there needs to be legislative consistency and funding certainties so investors know where would be most prudent or beneficial. The GIIA report highlights the importance of the following: - Streamlining cumbersome permitting processes - Developing schemes to enable more public-private partnerships (P3s) - Setting more consistent guidelines across all 50 states and the commonwealths If these obstacles can be overcome, it also clears the pathway for many tens of thousands of new construction jobs. Another hold-up for private investment: clarity on what is needed. Not all infrastructure projects are conducive to private investment without a clear path to yielding returns, but the sector could fill in gaps where the situation is right. Public investment opportunities are, in many cases, not communicated clearly or consistently to the private sector. ![Infographic outlining three paths to infrastructure investment: Failure to act, Snapshot, Continue to act, with pillars for government, private sector, and policy vision.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CLOSE-Bridging-the-Gap-Cartoon-400x260.png "Bridging the Gap Cart") GIIA advocates for establishing P3 offices in all 50 states to increase collaboration between the sectors and reduce the overall investment gap of $2.9 trillion over 10 years, as estimated by ASCE, which was never meant to be a bill footed exclusively by the federal government. GIIA notes successes in places like Virginia, where P3 projects have been run smoothly, and to the benefit of local communities across the state. Societal needs are constantly evolving. Innovations such as electric vehicles, Artificial Intelligence (AI), the emergence of larger post-Panamax vessels, and policies such as moving our electric grid to be carbon neutral and developing new trade agreements between countries are just a few examples of how the world’s needs will continuously shift, and the built environment will always be forced to adapt. This means that fully closing the infrastructure investment gap is not a realistic expectation. However, we can do better than a $2.9 trillion gap that costs U.S. households – even with continued investment – $2,000 per year. Effective collaboration between the federal government and state and local governments, in addition to collaborating with the private sector, are key to ensuring a safer and more efficient America. **Marsia Geldert-Murphey, President of the American Society of Civil Engineers, and Jon Phillips, CEO of the Global Infrastructure Investor Association** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure, State **Tags:** #energyinfrastructure, #infrastructurebill, #waterinfrastructure, Bipartisan, infrastructure, investment, transportation --- ### [ASCE statement on House passage of the Water Resources Development Act of 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-house-passage-of-the-water-resources-development-act-of-2024/) **Published:** July 22, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20statement%20on%20House%20passage%20of%20the%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202024&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*The following is a statement by Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., President of the American Society of Civil Engineers* **WASHINGTON** — The [American Society of Civil Engineers](https://www.asce.org) (ASCE) commends the House of Representatives for passing H.R. 8812, the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) for 2024. The House WRDA 2024 bill will help improve America’s ports and inland waterways, enhance flood risk management and storm risk reduction programs, and prioritize ecosystem restoration. While we urge the Senate to swiftly vote on its version of WRDA, we are encouraged that our nation’s critical water resources infrastructure remains a congressional priority. The House version of WRDA includes several key provisions to enhance the safety of America’s dams and levees, which each received a ‘D’ on the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), as well as provisions to modernize the nation’s inland waterways system, which received a ‘D+’ in the 2021 Report Card. This includes one of ASCE’s top legislative priorities for this year, the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program through 2028. But beyond the reauthorization, this bill reduces restrictions on the amount of funds states can receive in National Dam Safety Program State Assistance Grants; improves access to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program; and requires the incorporation of low-head dams into the National Inventory of Dams. Each of these provisions are critical to ensuring the long-term safety of our nation’s dams and ASCE applauds the House for their inclusion. Furthermore, ASCE was pleased to see that the House legislation extends the National Levee Safety Program through 2033, which will help support the establishment of state levee safety programs, develop and publish national guidelines for levee safety, and enhance flood protection nationwide. While these measures are not included in the Senate version of WRDA, we encourage lawmakers to ensure they are included in a final conference version of the bill. We thank the House of Representatives for moving forward WRDA 2024 and strongly encourage the Senate to pass its version so that Congress can keep this vital water resources legislation on a biennial schedule and ensure our nation’s dams, levees, ports, and inland waterways can support the American economy and protect public safety. **ABOUT THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS** *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 160,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. ASCE works to raise awareness of the need to maintain and modernize the nation’s infrastructure using sustainable and resilient practices, advocates for increasing and optimizing investment in infrastructure, and improve engineering knowledge and competency. For more information, visit* [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org) *or* [infrastructurereportcard.org](http://infrastructurereportcard.org) *and follow us on Twitter, @ASCETweets and @ASCEGovRel.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20statement%20on%20House%20passage%20of%20the%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202024&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F07%2FHouse-WRDA-1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20statement%20on%20House%20passage%20of%20the%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202024 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Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/lame-duck-look-ahead-water-resources-development-act/) **Published:** November 3, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FUnited_States_Capitol_at_night_01.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act "Share on 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Included in this slate will be the 2022 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). WRDA, the biennial legislation which authorizes water resources projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and makes key reforms to water infrastructure policy, has historically enjoyed bipartisan support. Because of this, WRDA has been passed into law every two years for well over a decade. ## Current Status of the 2022 Water Resources Development Act Both the House and Senate have each passed their own versions of WRDA on a bipartisan basis, with the [House passing its version on June 8th](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7776/text/eh?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22water+resources+development+act%22%7D&r=35) and the [Senate following suit on July 28th](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/4136/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22water+resources+development+act%22%7D&r=40&s=1). Both versions of WRDA authorize new projects and demonstrate a commitment to resilience and improvements of key infrastructure systems. Since the passage of the Senate bill, both chambers have been in negotiations to iron out differences between the two bills.On August 12th, [ASCE sent a letter](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-8-12-letter-wrda2022-conference-negotiations.pdf) to leadership on the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee expressing support for key provisions in each bill. Provisions in the House and Senate WRDA bills that are a priority for ASCE include: - Adjustment of the cost share formula for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund - Reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program - Provisions that enhance climate resilience for repair and restoration projects and new reporting on disaster mitigation and infrastructure resilience - USACE recruiting and career development for jobs in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields - Establishment of a National Low-Head Dam Inventory ## **Key WRDA 2022 Provisions and ASCE Priorities** Both bills contain top policy priorities for ASCE. Included in the Senate bill is an adjustment to the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) cost share formula for construction and rehabilitation projects. The Senate’s provision would reduce the cost share for IWTF projects from 35% to 25%, with the remaining cost covered by general funds. ASCE strongly supports this provision, which is listed as a recommendation for raising the grade for [Inland Waterways in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/). The House bill contains a three-year reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program, which is set to expire at the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. This critical program is tasked with establishing national levee safety guidelines, supporting the establishment of state levee safety programs, and providing technical assistance to states for effective levee management. The House and Senate bills also contain several provisions to enhance climate resilience, support STEM career development, and improve dam safety. The House bill includes provisions to allow USACE to implement shore protection projects beyond original design levels, and it requires new federal reports on infrastructure resilience and disaster mitigation. The Senate’s version would allow emergency funds for hurricane recovery and coastal protection projects to be used to implement climate resilience measures, and it authorizes USACE to expand career development and recruitment in STEM fields. Additionally, both WRDA bills include the establishment of a new National Low-Head Dam Inventory. This would identify low-head dams, man-made structures that stretch across riverbanks and produce dangerous undetectable currents nationwide. The [Dams chapter of the 2021 report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) highlights the danger these structures pose to the public. ## **Moving Toward WRDA Passage** While the Water Resources Development Act has often passed in Congress as a stand-alone bill, it has also been rolled into larger, high-priority bills that are viewed as “must pass legislation”. For example, in 2020, it passed at the end of the year as part of the omnibus appropriations bill that funded the Federal Government for FY 2021. This approach appears to be a likely route for WRDA in 2022 as well, and steps have already been taken toward attaching WRDA to another legislative vehicle. Last month, Senate EPW Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) included the Senate’s version of WRDA as a [placeholder amendment](https://www.waterwaysjournal.net/2022/10/21/wrda-placeholder-added-to-defense-authorization-act/) to the Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual legislation which sets budget toplines and new national security policies for the Department of Defense. The Senate is expected to pass its version of NDAA when it returns after election day and a final version agreed to by both chambers before the end of the 117th Congress on January 3, 2023. It is likely that this final version of NDAA will also contain WRDA language that has been negotiated and agreed upon by Senate EPW and House T&I. ASCE will continue to monitor the progress of the Water Resources Development Act throughout the lame-duck session. For more on the 2022 WRDA process and details on the House and Senate bills, we encourage you to read [ASCE’s WRDA policy memorandum](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-06-01-memo-water-resources-development-act-2022.pdf). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Inland Waterways, Levees, National Category, Ports --- ### [Senate Environment & Public Works Committee Releases Water Resources Development Act of 2020 and Drinking Water Legislation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-environment-public-works-committee-releases-water-resources-development-act-of-2020-and-drinking-water-legislation/) **Published:** April 22, 2020 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Environment%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Committee%20Releases%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202020%20and%20Drinking%20Water%20Legislation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, the [Senate Environment & Public Works Committee](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-republican?ID=A972BA8E-0390-4246-B10A-324F3CE73C67) has released a draft of their bipartisan WRDA 2020 bill, entitled [America’s Water Infrastructure Act (AWIA) of 2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/AWIA-2020.pdf), which keeps Congress on track with the biennium WRDA reauthorization schedule. This bill authorizes $17 billion in infrastructure projects and reauthorizes the EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund at increasing levels over the next three years. The Committee also released a draft of the [Drinking Water Act of 2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/DWIA-2020.pdf), which includes $2.5 billion in federal authorizations and reauthorizes programs under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) to provide resources and technical assistance to communities to help meet their drinking needs. Consideration of both bills in the full Senate is unclear at this time, while the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is still developing their own WRDA bill. Our nation’s water resources systems are crucial to our economy, public safety, and the preservation and enhancement of our environmental resources. Our levees, dams, inland waterways, and ports protect hundreds of communities, support millions of American jobs, and generate trillions of dollars of economic activity. However, many of these infrastructure assets have reached the end of their design life, and the investment gap must be closed if we hope to both repair and modernize our water resources systems to be competitive in the 21st century. Passage of WRDA legislation is an important step in securing investments for these critical infrastructure systems. The America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 and the Drinking Water Infrastructure Act of 2020 include many provisions that ASCE supports, including: - Reauthorization of the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program; - Reauthorization of the EPA’s Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program; - Creation of a new Clean Water Infrastructure Resiliency and Sustainability grant program for wastewater treatment facilities to increase resilience against natural hazards, including through the use of natural and engineered green infrastructure; - Creation of a new lead mapping pilot program for utilities that know, or are likely to have, at least 30% of service lines that contain lead; - Creation of a new grant program for research on new and emerging stormwater control technology; - Allocation of an additional $300 million a year in grants for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program to help remediate emerging contaminants such as PFAS; and - Modernization of the cost-share change to the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF). ASCE is pleased to see that this bill reauthorizes the CWSRF program for the first time in 30 years. Reauthorization of this successful program has been one of ASCE’s top legislative priorities; however, this proposed reauthorization is not nearly as robust as the $14 billion reauthorization included in [H.R. 1497,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1497/text) the Water Quality Protection & Job Creation Act, which passed the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure last year and which [ASCE supports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record_TI-CWSRF-Markup_10.29.19_FINAL.pdf). ASCE also supports the many resilience and innovation programs that are created or reauthorized in these bills. As natural hazards become more frequent and severe, resilience measures and green infrastructure investments will save lives and dollars. In fact, the National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) found that mitigation funding can save the nation $6 in future disaster costs for every $1 spent on hazard mitigation. ASCE has been a [key advocate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-revolving-loan-fund-helps-cities-and-states-prepare-for-the-future-now/) for of the bipartisan [H.R. 3779](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3779), the Resiliency Revolving Loan Program and [S. 3418](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/3418), the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation Act, as well as for ASCE codes and standards to be used to provide the framework for building a more resilient infrastructure. ASCE also supports the use of asset management plans, which involves creating a comprehensive infrastructure inventory as a way to improve efficiencies and shore up resilience. ASCE supports amending the current IWTF cost-share for construction and rehabilitation projects on our nation’s inland waterways systems, which is reflected in a [coalition letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/WRDA-Coalition-Priorities-Letter-April_2020_FINAL-1.pdf) the Society recently signed onto. Previous WRDA bills have changed the cost-share for certain projects, which allowed for more leveraging of funds and increased project efficiency. This precedent proved that making this cost-share change will encourage faster construction and expedite the completion of inland navigation projects. ASCE is encouraged that Congress is working towards passage of these critical water resources, wastewater, and drinking water infrastructure bills. The Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works will be accepting feedback on this bipartisan draft legislation through May 1 with the goal of holding a full Committee markup the following week. The House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure is still accepting infrastructure priorities from Members of Congress, so we expect their legislation to be released later this spring or early summer. There are additional opportunities for investments in these infrastructure systems, including in the [framework](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Moving%20Forward%20Framework.pdf) released by House Democrats earlier this year, as well as in a future coronavirus economic stimulus package. ASCE will continue working with both Committees and Congress to ensure key investments are made in our nation’s water resources, wastewater, and drinking water infrastructure systems. You can read a comprehensive summary of these bills in our [issue brief memo.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/WRDA-2020-Issue-Brief_April-2020_FINAL.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Environment%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Committee%20Releases%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202020%20and%20Drinking%20Water%20Legislation&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Environment%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Committee%20Releases%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20of%202020%20and%20Drinking%20Water%20Legislation 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**Tags:** Clean Water State Revolving Fund, Drinking Water, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, green infrastructure, inland waterways, innovation, resilience, stormwater, wastewater, WIFIA, WRDA --- ### [Georgia Infrastructure Earns a ‘C+’ on 2024 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/georgia-earns-c-plus-on-2024-report-card/) **Published:** July 9, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Georgia%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20on%202024%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Monday, July 8th, the Georgia Section of ASCE released the *2024 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure* at the state capitol building in Atlanta. The report featured 14 categories, receiving an overall grade of ‘C+’. This is the same grade as the 2019 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure. A ‘C+’ grade means Georgia’s infrastructure is in above-average condition but still requires attention. Georgia’s grade is two steps higher than the national average of ‘C-’ in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The 2024 Georgia Report Card is particularly timely after the water main breaks in Atlanta in early June, which left parts of the city without reliable water service for a few days. Twelve of the 14 categories evaluated in the Georgia Report Card received grades higher than the national Report Card. Two categories (rail and solid waste) earned the same grade as their national counterparts. These grades show Georgia remains committed to prioritizing its built environment, especially the infrastructure systems that help make Georgia an economic powerhouse. The grade for each category is in the chart below | **Grade** | **Infrastructure Categories** | |---|---| | **B+** | Ports | | **B** | Bridges, Energy, Rail, Schools | | **C+** | Aviation, Drinking Water, Roads, Solid Waste | | **C** | Public Parks | | **C-** | Stormwater, Wastewater | | **D+** | Dams | | **D** | Transit | ![Woman speaking at a podium with a state seal, inside a grand marble capitol staircase, surrounded by a group of officials.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/georgia-report-card-6-300x400.jpg "georgia-report-card-6")Members of the ASCE Georgia Section present the 2024 Report Card for Georgias Infrastructure at the State Capitol on July 8 2024The release event featured ASCE Members Anita Atkinson and Julie Sechrist, along with Georgia State Representative Vance Smith and Georgia Public Service Commission Vice-Chairman Tim Echols. Approximately 50 civil engineers from across Georgia spent months compiling and analyzing public information to get an accurate assessment of infrastructure across the Peach State, along with recommendations for how the grade can be improved moving forward. ### What’s inside the report card? The report card highlighted Georgia’s significant investment and increased funding for roads and bridges. Laws like the Transportation Investment Act of 2012 and Transportation Funding Act of 2015 have increased funding for roads by tying the gas tax to inflation. This has allowed Georgia’s roads to become the sixth best in the nation. The condition of Georgia’s bridges also has also improved, with 98 percent in fair or good condition, an increase from 93 percent in 2017 and 78 percent in 2013. Looking forward, road improvements may be threatened due to increasing vehicle efficiency and decreased gas purchases as more people switch to hybrid and electric vehicles. Georgia’s role in helping America’s economy also got significant attention in the report card. Ports received the highest grade of B+, thanks in part to increased capacity and maintenance projects which will ensure ships are able to load and unload cargo efficiently, helping get goods in and out of the United States. Georgia’s airports also play a significant role in the state’s economic success, with an annual economic impact of $73 billion, most of it from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The state has increased investment in aviation systems, and pavement conditions have improved since the last Report Card. However, it is worth noting that this grade decrease is only because public data available during the process of writing the 2019 Report Card significantly overestimated runway pavement conditions. With a clearer assessment of Georgia’s aviation infrastructure, the sector can better serve the state and nation’s air travel needs. Georgia’s energy system received a ‘B’ grade, compared to a ‘C-’ grade on the Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Georgia has invested billions in energy grid upgrades and accelerated its transition away from coal-fired power plants to nuclear, natural gas, and solar energy sources. With more people and businesses moving to Georgia and increased energy needs as more companies build new data centers in the state, a reliable and robust energy grid is vital for Georgia’s economic future. Transit systems, which can help move the workforce necessary to continue economic growth, received the lowest grade on the Report Card with a ‘D’. Georgia’s 93 transit systems are still seeing fewer passengers than before the pandemic and face tough choices as the federal support that helped them weather the pandemic ends. As Georgia continues to grow, the state’s water systems face higher costs to keep up with the rapidly increasing population. Georgians pay less than the national average for drinking water, and lower bills make it difficult for water utilities to cover the full cost of service, complete preventative maintenance, and grow for the future. Stormwater and wastewater systems also face new and increasing expenses to expand and serve the state’s growing population and increase the resilience of existing systems which are facing more frequent extreme weather events. ### How can Georgia raise its infrastructure grade? The recommendations to raise the grade inside the report include - **Deliver dedicated state transit funding:** Establish a robust, sustainable, and reliable state-level transit funding source to address the annual $1.7 billion additional funding need and reinstate the motor fuel tax exemption for public transit agencies. - **Set responsible, resilient utility rates and user fees:** Pursue utility rate increases to fully account for the full cost of service, including capital, maintenance, and operating needs. This should include life-cycle costs, materials, labor, inflation, and resilience upgrades necessary for extreme weather. - **Expand safety funding and oversight in dams and roads:** Amend the Georgia Safe Dams Act to implement “Significant Hazard Potential” dams and increase funding to reduce the backlog of classification of dams. Improve traffic safety with state and local funding for designing and constructing “complete streets” with robust enforcement. - **Invest in new electricity generation and a resilient grid:** State and local authorities should fund and facilitate new forms and greater scales of energy generation. Retrofits and new connections in the energy grid will ensure resilience to extreme weather and a backbone supporting population and business growth. - **Increase funding and coordination of intermodal freight projects:** Additional state funding would develop projects in Georgia’s Statewide Freight and Logistics Plan more quickly to capitalize on increased goods movement. Coordinate with regional and local communities where freight movements create benefits and burdens for nearby stakeholders. ### What’s next? With a new report card out, Georgia ASCE members will use it to advocate for improved infrastructure across the state – and help local and state lawmakers better understand Georgia’s infrastructure needs. We’d like to thank each ASCE member in Georgia who contributed to the *2024 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure* **Leadership** - Anita Atkinson - Rick Boudreau - Jeffrey Chiu - Stephan Durham - Kat Gurd - Julie Secrist - Rebecca Shelton - Shaukat Syed - Stefka Vacheva **Authors/Contributors** **Aviation** - Nathan Coyle - Susan Smith **Bridges** - Raj Aanand - Rachel Dicke - Wes Hunt - Sri Jonnalagadda - Katie Kelly - Stefa Vacheva **Dams** - Bobby Sauer - Santanu Sinharoy **Drinking Water** - Paula Feldman - Ben Moss - Steve Seachrist **Energy** - Anita Atkinson - David Gattie - Aidan Deegan **Ports** - Edward Fulford - Kirk McElveen - Jeremy Mitchler **Public Parks** - Stu Moring **Rail** - Mark Hitchcock - Nigel Naipaul **Roads** - Rick Boudreau - Natalie Branand - Sonny Kim - Dustin O’Quinn **Schools** - Shelby Lucas - Matt Tanner **Solid Waste** - Keith Cole - Leila Kelly - Kelen Shostak **Stormwater** - Felix Collazo - Rachel Jones - Kelen Shostak **Transit** - Amanda Foard - Mark Hitchcock - Cristina Pastore - Amanda Vandegrift - Kevin Winger **Wastewater** - Michael Diaz - Omkar Ghavi - Wayne Hanie - David King - Steve Simpson - Sudarsan Surange [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Georgia%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20on%202024%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F07%2F2024-georgia-report-card-350x200-1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Georgia%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20on%202024%20Report%20Card "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Georgia%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20on%202024%20Report%20Card "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Georgia%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%98C%2B%E2%80%99%20on%202024%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Georgia, State, State Report --- ### [Iowa State Report Card: Civil Engineers Give Iowa's Infrastructure a "C" Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iowa-state-report-card-civil-engineers-give-iowas-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** April 11, 2023 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F04%2Fiowa-report-card-350x200-1.png&description=Iowa%20State%20Report%20Card%3A%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Iowa%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Iowa%20State%20Report%20Card%3A%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Iowa%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Iowa%20State%20Report%20Card%3A%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Iowa%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, April 11th, the Iowa section of [ASCE](https://www.asce.org) released the *[2023 Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/iowa/)* in Des Moines. The report card included 13 infrastructure categories, and overall, Iowa earned a grade of “C, ” the same grade as the 2019 Iowa state report card. A “C” grade means Iowa’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. But it is one step ahead of the national “C-” average in the *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. Civil engineers graded Iowa’s aviation (C-), bridges (D+), dams (D), drinking water (C), energy (C+), inland waterways (D+), levees (C), public parks (C), rail (C+), roads (B-), solid waste (B-), stormwater (D+), and wastewater (C-). Nine of the 13 categories in the Iowa report card have better grades than the national report card. The release event was held at the Capitol Rotunda in Des Moines and included leadership of the Iowa section of ASCE and ASCE President-Elect Marsia Geldert-Murphey, PE. ![ASCE Iowa Report card release group photo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Iowa-Group-Pic-400x301.jpg "Iowa Group Pic")Members of ASCE at the release of the 2023 Report Card For Iowas Infrastructure at the Iowa State CapitolMore than a dozen civil engineers from across Iowa worked over the last year to analyze public information about the state’s infrastructure to come up with grades and recommendations to improve infrastructure systems across the Hawkeye state. Some of the key findings of the report card include the efforts to improve Iowa’s transportation systems. Iowa lawmakers are seeing the results of diesel and gas tax increases passed in 2015, along with efforts to prioritize maintenance and repairs ahead of expansion projects. These efforts and money from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) have helped keep Iowa’s roads and bridges afloat, but additional funding is needed to provide much-needed improvements. The effects of this limited funding are evident with Iowa’s bridges. Approximately 19% of the state’s bridges are in poor condition, the second-highest percentage in the country. However, only 30 bridges owned by the state are in poor condition. City or county governments own the remaining 4,569 bridges in poor condition. The report card recommends that local governments use funding opportunities from the IIJA and other sources to repair or replace those bridges. Iowa’s road conditions are a bright spot in the report, with only 25 percent in poor or mediocre condition, compared to the national average of 40 percent. The report card also looks at the impact of increasing severe weather events in Iowa and how to protect vital infrastructure from extreme conditions. Floods are frequent in Iowa, with more federal disaster declarations from flooding than any other state over the last 70 years. Flood events do more than overwhelm infrastructure systems, and they also pose a danger to the state’s agricultural economy. The report recommends Iowa leaders invest in fortifying water systems for greater resilience when extreme weather conditions happen. Floods can affect many infrastructure systems, including damage to dams and levees, overwhelming wastewater systems, and putting drinking water systems in danger. Tornadoes, Derechos, and other wind events occurring more often in Iowa can also cause extensive damage to the state’s power grid, leaving homes and businesses in the dark after storms. The report card also includes three recommendations: - Support funding enhancements for present and future needs: Iowa’s motor fuel tax is losing value to inflation. Iowa should modify motor fuel taxes to automatically rise with inflation and direct dedicated money to locally owned bridges. - Fortify water systems for greater resilience: Iowa sits between nationally important rivers with integral freight capacity, vital ecosystems, and powerful economic potential. Resilience can’t be addressed without greater investment in aging systems for wastewater, drinking water, stormwater, dams, and levees often under-capacity for treatment and conveyance. - Foster inter-government and non-political organization for improved capacities: Project delivery capacity, data collection and use, and stakeholder inclusion can be improved when decision-making expands beyond traditional silos. Operational fortitude of Iowa’s energy grid, for example, could improve if local communities participated more directly in renewable power generation and storage. Iowa ASCE members will now use their new report card to advocate for better infrastructure with local and state lawmakers. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Iowa%20State%20Report%20Card%3A%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Iowa%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Iowa%20State%20Report%20Card%3A%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Iowa%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Iowa, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, State Report, Uncategorized --- ### [ASCE: household, family savings from infrastructure investments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bridging-the-gap-release/) **Published:** May 13, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Excerpt:** New ASCE economic study shows that American families and businesses save money if Congress, states, and the private sector continue recent investments. **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%3A%20household%2C%20family%20savings%20from%20infrastructure%20investments&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## 2024 ASCE economic study released at live event “It’s a great morning, right?,” said former ASCE President Kristina Swallow at Monday’s release event for ASCE’s new Bridging the Gap economic study. The event provided participants the ability to not just learn about the findings in the new economic report but to also hear from experts about how the policy landscape has shifted in recent years and what those shifts will mean as we try to build on the success of recent federal infrastructure investments. Please view our full economic study [here](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2024-Bridging-the-Gap-Economic-Study.pdf), share the [infographic](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2024-Economic-Report-Infographic-1.pdf), check out the fresh [summary website](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/2024-Economic-Report-Infographic-1.pdf), and watch the release event in full [on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/live/MBvnPTxPNDA?si=ZSkhSZSDY2KI3Gd_) or below. ## U.S. infrastructure investments save money for families and businesses Since 2011, ASCE [has issued](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/society-news/article/2024/05/13/asce-releases-newest-economic-study) a recurring economic study – formerly called “Failure to Act” – to measure the benefits and consequences of infrastructure investments or lack of investments on American families, businesses, and our economy’s global competitiveness. In the 2021[ *Failure to Act*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics) study, ASCE found that the long-term effects of underinvestment in infrastructure created a **$3,300 per year loss for American households** (2019 dollars). That burden is the culmination of cascading impacts on the nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, gross domestic product (GDP), employment, and international competitiveness. But here’s the good news: recent action from Congress, state and local governments, and the private sector have made a downpayment on the costly infrastructure gap we identified in 2021. ASCE’s new Bridging the Gap analysis shows that delivered and anticipated investments from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, and other measures **reduce costs to American families by at least $600** from ASCE’s 2021 economic study (2022 dollars). The funding has provided an initial and consequential step in bridging the funding gap between the nation’s infrastructure needs and investment. There’s even better news: Over the next 10 years, by continuing recent levels of federal, state, and private investment, Bridging the Gap estimates that **$600 billion will be saved in GDP** compared to pre-COVID investment levels. The savings from leaders continuing to prioritize U.S. infrastructure investments after current laws expire in 2026 amount to savings for every family of **nearly $700 annually** over the next twenty years (2022 dollars). ## Improving America’s infrastructure requires the government and private sector “We can see this cut across industries,” said 2024 ASCE President Marsia Geldert-Murphey. “We’re talking about advocacy, advocacy, advocacy. We have to keep having these challenging conversations,” she said, speaking of transportation, water, energy, and water transportation gaps. The “gap” means more than dollars; it includes workforce, regulation, research, innovation, and new coordination among stakeholder groups. Bridging America’s infrastructure gap is a group effort and cannot be done by the federal government alone. To be successful, we will need the state and local governments and the private sector to step up. We’ll also need further policy changes like permitting reform and the implementation of new innovations that can reduce costs: ![Infographic outlining three paths to infrastructure investment: Failure to act, Snapshot, Continue to act, with pillars for government, private sector, and policy vision.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/CLOSE-Bridging-the-Gap-Cartoon-1024x665.png "Bridging the Gap Cart") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%3A%20household%2C%20family%20savings%20from%20infrastructure%20investments&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Inland Waterways, National Category, News, Ports, Rail, Roads, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** economics, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation, water --- ### [Congress clears FAA reauthorization bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-deal-latest/) **Published:** May 2, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Administration (FAA). The House of Representatives passed the bill, the [FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/BC96EBA2-77A1-401C-96A0-E9B990F4D3E4) (H.R. 3935), on May 15th with a [387-26 vote](https://clerk.house.gov/Votes). The Senate passed the measure May 9th by an [88-4 vote](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1182/vote_118_2_00162.htm). The FAA reauthorization bill is a $105.5 billion package that would reauthorize FAA programs through Fiscal Year (FY) 2028. The legislation includes $66.7 billion for FAA operations, $17.8 billion for facilities and equipment, $19.4 billion for airport infrastructure improvement grants, and $1.6 billion for research, development, and engineering. The proposed compromise text for the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 was released by transportation leaders in the House and Senate in the early hours of April 29th. After sifting through a long list of proposed amendments to the compromise bill, the Senate passed the legislation and sent it to the House. The bipartisan legislation is the result of negotiations that have taken place over the past several months. A series of short-term extensions had kept the FAA funded since September 30. While the House passed its version of the bill, the [Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act](https://www.congress.gov/event/118th-congress/house-event/116070) (H.R. 3935), last summer, prog­ress was slower in the Senate. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved their version of the bill, the [FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/senate-bill/1939) (S. 1939), in February 2024. ## Airport Improvement Funding in the FAA Reauthorization Bill The bill increases Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funding to $4 billion per year beginning in Fiscal Year (FY) 2025, a bump from the $3.35 billion per year that has been in place since FY 2012. Protecting airport infrastructure funding by increasing AIP funding levels was one of ASCE’s main recommendations to Congress. ASCE believes the strong support for the AIP program in the FAA reauthorization bill will help airports meet growing infrastructure needs. Also included in the bill is a requirement for the FAA to work with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assess the resiliency of coastal or flood-prone areas, the establishment of a Runway Safety Council, and a research and development effort to assist with modernizing the FAA’s aeronautical information systems. ## ASCE’s Supports the Safety and Resilience of Our Airport Infrastructure Congressional progress over the last several months was largely held up due to issues ASCE did not take a position on. One contentious issue was the number of daily flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The FAA reauthorization bill allows five additional round-trip flights per day at that airport, which is heavily used by members of Congress. ASCE has long supported prompt passage of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, which offers reliable support for programs that are vital for the safety, growth, and resilience of our system. Throughout the reauthorization process, ASCE supported the House-led Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act and the Senate-led FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023. ASCE has gone on the record to support both the House and Senate bills and also expressed support for the final legislation. For more information on the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, check out ASCE’s [memo](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2024-05-15-asce-memo-faa-reauthorization-act-2024.pdf). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Local%20Officials%2C%20Engineers%20Herald%20Seattle%E2%80%99s%20Multimodal%20Terminal%20at%20Colman%20Dock%20at%20Latest%20Roadshow%20Stop&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, April 3rd, the replacement project for Seattle’s Multimodal Terminal at Colman Dock, one of the world’s busiest ferry terminals, was showcased by local officials and engineers as part of the [Engineering and Public Works Roadshow](https://www.infrastructureroadshow.org/). The Colman Dock serves as an example of how comprehensive infrastructure investment can promote equity within a community and drive economic growth. Speakers at the event included Roger Millar, Secretary, Washington State Department of Transportation and Past-President of ASCE’s Transportation & Development Institute (T&DI); Angela Brady, City of Seattle Director of Office of the Waterfront and Civic Projects and APWA Board Member; Van Collins, President and CEO of ACEC Washington; David Sowers, Director of Terminal Engineering & Construction for Washington State Ferries; and Mike Wray, Sr Vice President/Engineer Diver for WSP USA, US Maritime Division. ## Colman Dock’s Critical Infrastructure Role Supporting more than 10 million passengers for Washington State Ferries each year, the Colman Dock plays a critical role as a transportation hub for residents throughout the region and is recognized as a landmark along Seattle’s scenic waterfront. As the structures were aging and vulnerable to seismic impacts, the reconstruction of the dock and terminal was critical to better withstand environmental impact. The project also included expanding facilities to accommodate additional passengers and vendors, turning the terminal into a local attraction for Seattle residents and visitors. ![Multimodal Terminal at Colman Dock](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Roger-Millar-301x400.jpg "Roger Millar")Roger Millar Secretary Washington State Department of Transportation WSDOTEffective project management has allowed for Washington State Ferries to continue serving its 10 million annual passengers without delay from the construction process of the project. ## Showcasing Transformative Infrastructure Projects Across America The Roadshow is a collaboration between the [American Council of Engineering](https://www.acec.org/) [Companies](https://www.acec.org/) (ACEC), the [American Public Works Association](http://www.apwa.net/) (APWA), and the [American Society of Civil Engineers](https://www.asce.org/) (ASCE). The Roadshow marks the first time the leading organizations representing the designers and public operators of America’s infrastructure have joined together to spotlight what successful infrastructure investment means for the nation’s economy, jobs, the environment, and our future. The Seattle Colman Dock event is the Roadshow’s sixth stop since its creation in late 2022. **Secretary of Transportation Roger Millar, of the Washington State Department of Transportation and past-president, ASCE Transportation & Development Institute** said: “To me, investment in transportation is a means to multiple ends. Well-executed transportation projects support economic vitality, environmental stewardship and resilience, social equity and access to opportunity, public health and aesthetic quality. I’m proud to say our Colman Dock project brings all of those benefits for Seattle, the state and the region.” ![Five adults posing outside a modern building; woman in a bright magenta coat and four men in suits, two of whom hold award plaques with gear icons.]","Business group photo on a city sidewalk: woman in a bright pink coat and four men in suits, two with glass awards.]","Group of five professionals standing on a walkway beside a contemporary office complex, posing for a photo.]","Professional awards photo: five people on a plaza, two men displaying gear-shaped trophies.]","Urban outdoor group portrait with five people in business attire; two men hold awards.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Roadshow-Awards-300x400.jpg "Roadshow Awards")From right to left Angela Brady representing APWA Roger Millar representing ASCE David Sowers representing Washington State Ferries Mike Wray representing WSP USA and Van Collins representing ACEC“It was just a few short years ago that a looming, gigantic double-decker concrete freeway – the Alaskan Way Viaduct – formed a solid barrier between our downtown neighborhoods and our waterfront,” said **APWA Washington Chapter Member and City of Seattle Office of the Waterfront and Civic Projects Director Angela Brady**. “The viaduct’s removal in 2019 has provided us with the incredible opportunity to reconnect downtown Seattle to our uniquely beautiful waterfront on Elliott Bay, and to build more than 20 acres of new public open spaces and parks that Seattle can be proud of. ” **ACEC-Washington President Van Collins** stated: “Everyone here today agrees that the Colman Dock is a wonderful, tangible, and visible example of the quality of transportation and infrastructure projects being performed in Washington State. Yet, speaking on behalf of consulting engineering firms, I can honestly say it should not be surprising. Washington’s engineering talent, whether public or private, is second to none, and the Colman Dock is proof of the vast public benefit such expertise has produced and will produce in the years to come. Maybe even more importantly, the Dock and other such infrastructure projects will hopefully entice more of our youth, our future engineers, to dream about how they could be part of something so consequential.” The nearly $500 million construction project faces Seattle’s iconic waterfront and seating capacity in the expanded 20,000 square-foot terminal triples that of the past terminal. Since the Colman Dock multimodal project began construction in 2017, the project has integrated: - A new passenger-only ferry terminal on the south side of Colman Dock for the King County Water Taxi and Kitsap Transit. - An elevated walkway between the terminal building and the passenger-only ferry facility. - A new overhead loading passenger structure on the north end of the terminal. - The timber trestle portion of the dock with a new concrete and steel trestle for vehicle staging and loading/unloading. - The full passenger terminal building. Roadshow speakers said it will not be fully realized without an expanded and robust workforce as the federal government continues to implement the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. They said students nationwide must be educated about the rewarding careers of civil engineering and public works so these professions have the necessary staffing to complete transformative projects. 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infrastructure, colman dock, Environment, ferries, transit, transportation --- ### [What the first round of FY2024 appropriations bills mean for infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/appropriations-bills-fy2024-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 7, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=What%20the%20first%20round%20of%20FY2024%20appropriations%20bills%20mean%20for%20infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On March 3rd, top lawmakers unveiled the text of [six fiscal year (FY) 2024 appropriations bills](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committees-release-first-fy24-package) that President Joe Biden signed into law on March 8th. The agreed-upon appropriations package includes FY24 funding for Military Construction; Agriculture and Rural Development; Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water; Interior and Environment; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. On Wednesday the House passed the $459 billion package by a vote of 339–85, and, just hours before the shutdown deadline, the Senate passed it on Friday night by a 75-22 vote. While some agencies, like the Departments of Transportation and Energy will see slight increases in FY24, the majority of agencies will see flat spending or, in the case of the EPA and the National Science Foundation, slight funding cuts. Action this week means Congress is now halfway toward completing all 12 bills that make up government funding for FY24. The remaining six bills, however, make up nearly 70 percent of the discretionary budget and will prove much more difficult to finalize an agreement before the March 22nd deadline. **Below is ASCE’s analysis of the programs included in the package approved this week.** ## Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies. The FY 2024 THUD funding bill provides $106.3 billion in total budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation (DOT). The bill cuts $3.2 billion from the FY 2023 enacted levels across DOT and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs. It also rejects requests pertaining to some of the Biden-Harris Administration’s initiatives, including funding for the Thriving Communities Program and the effort to electrify DOT’s vehicle fleet. Highlights of the bill include: - $62.9 billion in total budgetary resources for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), which is $69.8 million above FY 2023 enacted levels. - $20 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a figure that is $1 billion higher than FY 2023 enacted levels. This figure includes $12.7 billion for air traffic control operations and hiring efforts. - $16.6 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), which is $365 million below the FY 2023 enacted level. The bill includes $2.2 billion for Capital Investment Grants. - $2.9 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), which is $434 million below the FY 2023 enacted levels. The bill reduces funding for Amtrak by $25 million. - $1.2 billion for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and $940.7 million for the Maritime Administration (MARAD), both of which are above last year’s funding levels. - $345 million for the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program, which is less than half of the $800 million the program received last year. However, when combined with advanced appropriations from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the program will be provided $1.8 billion in FY 2024. ## Commerce-Justice-Science This bill signals that Congress is stepping back from previous increases in science and research funding and not following up with promises made in the CHIPS and Science Act. - The National Science Foundation (NSF) will take a large reduction with lawmakers imposing a 3% cut to $9.06 billion, some $820 million below FY23. Agency officials will face some difficult decisions in determining how to manage its diminished appropriation, which is nearly $2.3 billion less than the $11.3 billion the White House had requested. Last year, Congress significantly increased NSF’s budget and earmarked funds for the agency’s new Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (TIP) directorate, aimed at speeding discoveries to the marketplace. Lawmakers declined to replenish those funds this year and they gave NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan responsibility for deciding how to apportion the cut, noting that he need not give special treatment to TIP, which was envisioned to grow rapidly under legislation previously passed by Congress. - The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) also has its budget reduced with overall funding of $1.46 billion, down about 10% from the enacted FY23 level of $1.627 billion. Funding for NIST measurement labs and research increased to $1.1 billion from $953 million last year; however, this includes $222.8 million in “earmarks,” or projects selected for funding by members of Congress. Additionally, the bills provide up to $10 million for NIST to establish a U.S. Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute and to implement NIST’s responsibilities under the landmark Artificial Intelligence Executive Order released last year. - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) budget will rise slightly in the deal to $6.4 billion, up from last year’s $6.2 billion, and significantly less than the Administration’s request of $6.8 billion. The gains were not reflected in the agency’s primary research arm, which saw its operating budget fall from $687 million to $656 million. - The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) would receive $24.87 billion, 2% less than 2023 and 8.5% less than the $27.19 billion requested by the Administration. Within that total, the agency’s earth sciences and biological sciences programs remain flat. NASA’s planetary science program drops 15% to $2.7 billion. - The Department of Energy – Office of Science is allocated $8.24 billion, $540 million below the President’s request, but $140 million more than 2023. Much of that increase, or $92 million, goes to DOE’s Basic Energy Sciences program, which rises 3.6% to $2.62 billion. Advanced computing, biology and environmental research, and nuclear physics programs all see decreases, with the largest cut of 4.9%, or $52 million, to $1 billion, coming in the computing program. ## Energy & Water Development The bill includes $58.2 billion for the Energy & Water Development Division. While the bill does provide increases for key federal agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, it reduces funds for key accounts and programs vital to strengthening the nation’s energy and water resources infrastructure. - S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Construction account received $1.8 billion, which is $300 million below FY 2023. - USACE’s Water Infrastructure Finance Program (CWIFP) received $7.2 million which is equal to the FY \\23 level. These funds will allow the program to begin providing financing for non-federal dam safety projects, in accordance with IIJA. - The National Levee Safety Program did not receive FY24 funding in the bill, aside from $1 million to continue improvements of the National Levee Database. - The Department of Energy’s Electricity Account received $280 million, which is $70 million below the enacted level. These funds will support technologies that enhance grid resilience and efficiency and strengthen the capability to incorporate clean energy technologies. - The Bureau of Reclamation received $1.92 billion, which is $451 million above the Biden Administration’s budget request, but $31 million below the enacted level. Bureau of Reclamation funds support water conservation, restoration, and other water resources projects in western states affected by significant drought conditions. ## Interior & Environment The bill provides $38.9 billion for the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies division, along with $2.6 billion in additional funding to combat wildfires. It represents a $1.5 billion cut to the FY23 enacted level and does not support needed funding increases for key infrastructure programs: - The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) received $9.16 billion, $942 million less than FY 2023. - EPA’s State Revolving Fund programs were funded at FY 2023 levels, with the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) receiving $1.639 billion, and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) receiving $1.126 billion. Out of these funding levels, Community Project Funding (Congressionally Directed Spending, or earmarks) $787.65 million was set aside for CWSRF projects, and $631.66 million was set aside for DWSRF projects, further reducing the amount of program funds allocated directly to states to support financing for water infrastructure capital improvement projects. - EPA Brownfields cleanup projects received $98 million, $2 million less than FY 2023. - EPA’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program received $72.27 million, an increase of $3.4 million to support low-interest financing for water infrastructure projects. - The National Park Service received $3.325 billion, $150 million less than FY 2023. ## Agriculture & Rural Development The bill provides $26.3 billion for the Agriculture & Rural Development division. This is roughly equal to the FY 23 enacted level and includes the following: - Rural Utilities Service Rural Water and Waste Disposal Program received $596 million, supporting loans for water and wastewater programs, technical assistance, disposal, and waste management. - Rural Utilities Service Rural Electrification and Telecommunications Loans Program Account received $42.6 million to support loans and loan guarantees for nonprofits and energy utilities to finance construction of electric distribution facilities in rural areas, as well as generation, transmission, and distribution facilities. Sign up for ASCE email updates to stay on top of developments in the FY 2024 appropriations bills and other infrastructure news. 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With news that a semiconductor plant was coming to Phoenix, the team at Wilson Engineers and Carollo Engineers worked diligently to provide wastewater and transportation services to the area. The Roadshow commended the engineers and city officials responsible for moving the project along efficiently. The roadshow is a partnership between the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/) (ASCE), the [American Public Works Association](http://www.apwa.org/) (APWA), and the [American Council of Engineering Companies](http://www.acec.org/) (ACEC) to highlight the meaningful, transformational work of engineers and public works professionals and to encourage students and young professionals to pursue rewarding careers in engineering and public works. “I am excited to see the Northwest Valley Infrastructure Project recognized by ACEC, APWA, and ASCE. This accomplishment highlights the important role that meticulous planning, design, and construction efforts play in ensuring the success of critical ventures like our city’s new TSMC plant, said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego. “The Roadshow recognition is a testament to our commitment to excellence and innovation in infrastructure, and further cements Phoenix as a leader in development.” At today’s press conference, Mayor Kate Gallego, Phoenix Water Services Director Troy Hayes, and representatives from the City and Wilson Engineers, and leaders from ACEC, APWA, and ASCE offered comments on the importance of projects like the Northwest Valley Infrastructure Project. ![Speaker at a City of Phoenix podium during the Engineering & Public Works Roadshow, with banners displaying 'Infrastructure Works' behind him.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Tom-Speaking-400x221.jpg "Tom Speaking")ASCE Executive Director Tom SmithAfter a shortage of computer chips brought industries to a standstill during the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed the Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors and Science (CHIPS) Act of 2022. Among other things, which Act serves to encourage semiconductor manufacturing in the United States. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) saw this opportunity and decided to bring state-of-the-art semiconductor technology to Phoenix. In doing so, the need for water and transportation services in the proposed project area became prevalent. The $125 million construction project required the installation of the water and wastewater infrastructure under an exceedingly accelerated schedule that allowed less than six months for preconstruction and procurement and only nine months for construction. “Behind every great economic opportunity is a team of engineers driven to build the infrastructure necessary to make that opportunity a reality,” said Tom Smith, ASCE executive director. “The team behind the Northwest Valley Infrastructure Project built out the water systems necessary to support businesses and people, and that’s why this profession is so important. We need many more skilled workers to join the ranks to continue producing these kinds of economy-driving projects.” Included in the Northwest Valley infrastructure project: - 8 miles of 36-inch and 54-inch-diameter water transmission mains; - Two 108-inch-diameter rib-and-lag boring tunnels, 2,300 feet long, across I-17; - 5 miles of dual 24-inch-diameter high density polyethylene (HDPE) sewer force mains; - 2 miles of 24-inch, 42-inch, and 48-inch diameter gravity sewer lines; - 52-MGD pressure-reducing station (build-out phase); - 44-MGD sewer lift station (build-out phase); - Multiple drainage structures along the corridor; and, - Numerous concrete structures with highly specialized coatings. As the federal government continues to implement this monumental legislation, the second year of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will not be fully realized without an expanded and robust workforce. Students nationwide must be educated about the rewarding careers of civil engineering and public works so these professions have the necessary staffing to complete transformative projects. 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ASCE Past-President and Chair of the Committee for America’s Infrastructure, Greg DiLoreto, P.E. [testified](https://waysandmeans.house.gov/sites/democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/files/documents/ASCE%20Written%20Testimony%20Ways%20and%20Means%20Hearing_FINAL%282%29.pdf) alongside AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas Donohue, American Trucking Association President and CEO Chris Spear, and Competitive Enterprise Institute Senior Fellow Marc Scribner. At the four-hour hearing entitled, “[Our Nation’s Crumbling Infrastructure and The Need for Immediate Action](https://waysandmeans.house.gov/legislation/hearings/our-nation-s-crumbling-infrastructure-and-need-immediate-action),” Chairman Richard Neal (D-MA1) took the opportunity to open the hearing by discussing the state of our nation’s infrastructure and the immediate steps that need to be taken to improve its condition: “Our infrastructure system used to be the envy of the world. Now, due to decades of underfunding and neglect, it’s falling apart, and we’re falling behind our global competitors. The deficiencies of our roads, bridges, transit, water systems, and electrical grids are well-documented and widely known. This is a problematic reality for every single state and congressional district in the nation. In fact, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave our country’s infrastructure system a grade of “D+.” The ASCE also estimates that it would take 2 trillion dollars of investment over ten years just to bring our grade up to a “B.” We face the largest infrastructure funding gap in the world.” [U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee](https://transportation.house.gov/) Chairman [Peter DeFazio](https://waysandmeans.house.gov/sites/democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/files/documents/Rep.%20Defazio%20Testimony.pdf) (D-OR4) and Ranking Member [Sam Graves](https://waysandmeans.house.gov/sites/democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/files/documents/Rep.%20Graves%20Testimony.pdf) (R-MO6) joined the first panel discussion and stated that, “order for our \[Transportation and Infrastructure\] Committee to do its work, particularly when it comes to surface transportation, we need the Committee on Ways and Means to act to raise Federal revenue. “ In his testimony, Mr. DiLoreto highlighted the findings of ASCE’s*[ 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), [Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE-Failure-to-Act-2016-FINAL.pdf),* and the need to fix the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), and support key financing tools such as tax-exempt municipal bonds. Along with Chamber of Commerce head Tom Donohue, DiLoreto advocated for a gas tax increase of 5 cents per year over 5 years, holding up a nickel to show how such a small investment would have such a large impact. With each American family losing an average of $3,400 in disposable income each year – more than $9 a day – due to poor infrastructure, he reminded the Committee that “We are already paying a price for unreliable, outdated infrastructure and getting nothing for it.” This week’s hearing continued the legislative push on Capitol Hill aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. This discussion allowed lawmakers in charge of developing funding and financing options to hear not only the condition of our nation’s infrastructure, but solutions on how to pay for it. The discussion also emphasized the need to ensure how this vital component will make our nation competitive in a 21st century marketplace. ASCE is staying actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [ASCE urges all infrastructure stakeholders to reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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This deal was made in exchange for his support of the climate change and clean energy reconciliation package known as the Inflation Reduction Act. An [outline of the proposal](https://www.manchin.senate.gov/download/energy-permitting-provisions&download=1) included several provisions to streamline permitting and environmental review processes for a wide array of energy infrastructure projects. This included: - maximum two-year timeline for environmental reviews for energy projects. - A limitation on court challenges. - Enhanced permitting authority for transmission infrastructure. - Approval of a new 300-mile natural gas pipeline running through West Virginia – which had been previously blocked in court over environmental concerns. The Inflation Reduction Act was [signed into law](https://www.cnn.com/2022/08/16/politics/biden-inflation-reduction-act-signing) on August 16th, and it was expected that Congress would take up energy permitting reform after returning from the August recess. ## The Energy Independence and Security Act On September 21st, [Manchin released](https://www.energy.senate.gov/2022/9/manchin-releases-comprehensive-permitting-reform-text-to-be-included-in-continuing-resolution) the text of a comprehensive permitting reform bill that would be known as the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2022. The [text of the legislation](http://email.capitolenews.com/q/8TJl642YTW4TpK0X5oLGMke8pDRHG1AOK5xGZcOJZXJpbl9oZWV0ZXJAbWFuY2hpbi5zZW5hdGUuZ292w4gCSsvCnAad7ABgm9ooL0ibQ4rLg) was expected to be included in a continuing resolution (CR) to extend government funding through the start of the 2023 fiscal year. Manchin unveiled the bill noting his belief that the existing energy permitting process for energy projects “takes too long and drives up costs.” The Energy Independence and Security Act is largely consistent with the outline that was released in August. Provisions include a two-year timetable for environmental reviews of major projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), a 150-day statute of limitations for court challenges to project authorization decisions, and requirements that a single environmental document prepared by a designated lead agency be utilized for project reviews and authorizations. The bill also seeks to further boost energy infrastructure projects by requiring the President to designate 25 projects of national importance on a rolling basis and providing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission with permitting authority for electric transmission projects. ## Reaction to the Energy Permitting Reform Bill The Energy Independence and Security Act was met with resistance and criticism [from both sides of the aisle](https://www.vox.com/policy-and-politics/2022/9/27/23375059/joe-manchin-permitting-reform-progressives-republicans). Progressive Democrats raised concerns over the shortened periods for environmental review and reduced window for legal challenges. Progressives also raised concerns over increased fossil fuel development, including authorization of the Mountain Valley natural gas pipeline in West Virginia. Senate Republicans, on the other hand, voiced opposition to the bill for what many felt were political reasons stemming from Manchin’s support for the Inflation Reduction Act, legislation that passed with only Democrats voting in favor and under budget reconciliation procedures. While Manchin’s Republican colleague from West Virginia, Senator Shelley Moore Capito, did express her support for the bill, Capito also introduced [her own energy permitting reform legislation](https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-comprehensive-regulatory-and-permitting-reform-legislation), which makes significant changes to environmental review and regulatory processes and seeks to codify controversial Trump-era environmental regulations, including changes to NEPA and the Navigable Waters Protection Rule defining Waters of the United States. ## Where Energy Permitting Reform Stands Today Ultimately, the Energy Independence and Security Act was pulled from the CR over concerns it would threaten passage of the bill. This cleared the way for the CR to pass, preventing a government shutdown and raising speculation about whether energy permitting reform would be considered during the lame-duck session of the 117th Congress. Despite the setback for the bill, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) [expressed his hope](https://www.eenews.net/articles/manchin-backs-off-permitting-reform-in-spending-bill/) to “ensure responsible permitting reform is passed before the end of the year.” While the path forward remains unclear, there are options for moving at least portions of the Manchin bill. One potential option would be an expected omnibus spending bill to fund the government through FY 2023. Historically, these year-end bills have served as a vehicle to pass last-minute legislative items before the end of the Congressional session. In 2020, for example, the Water Resources Development Act was included in the omnibus prior to the close of the 116th Congress. However, as with the CR, including contentious provisions to a must-pass bill could derail passage, ultimately leading to a government shutdown. The looming midterm elections may also impact passage of an omnibus, as Congressional Republicans could defer passing an omnibus until after the new year should they win majorities in the House and Senate. A second option may be the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual national security bill which establishes budget levels and other authorities for the military and the Department of Defense. NDAA is historically passed on a bipartisan basis after several months of often contentious negotiations between the House and Senate. Congress has without fail passed NDAA each of the past 61 years. This option, however, proposes its own set of challenges. While the operation of the federal government does not hinge on its passage, NDAA is a sweeping national security bill that determines funding levels for the Armed Forces, including pay for servicemembers, support for the defense industrial base, which supports manufacturing jobs nationwide, and other key defense and foreign policy priorities. It is not uncommon for negotiations to stall over one or two contentious provisions. This often results in NDAA’s passage coming as one of the final actions taken by Congress at year’s end. [ASCE supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps562---national-environmental-policy-act) reasonable approaches to energy permitting reform in order to build 21st-century infrastructure systems. This includes a balanced approach to the NEPA process, which streamlines permitting and approval processes, but not at the expense of science-based evaluation and determination of environmental impacts. ASCE will be closely following the debate surrounding energy permitting reform during the lame-duck period and into the 118th Congress. 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Fox has been an avid ally with ASCE over several years, including partnering with ASCE for its seminal water infrastructure economic study, *[The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure: How a Failure to Act Would Affect the U.S. Economy Recovery](https://www.asce.org/water_and_wastewater_report/).* For the last five years, Fox led the US Water Alliance in advancing policies and programs that build a sustainable water future for all through educating the nation on the value of water, accelerating adoption of one water policies and programs, and celebrating innovation in water management. In addition to her role as US Water Alliance CEO, Fox also led the [Value of Water Coalition](http://thevalueofwater.org/about-us/what-we-do), of which ASCE is a member. This Coalition is widely known for its [Imagine a Day Without Water](https://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/) annual advocacy campaign. Fox also served on the [United for Infrastructure](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/) (formerly ‘Infrastructure Week’) Steering Committee alongside ASCE. Fox has over 20 years of experience in developing policies, programs, and advocacy campaigns. Prior to the US Water Alliance, Fox served as a regulator in California for four years. Preceding this role, she directed policy and government affairs for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission from August 2011 to January 2015. From 2000 to 2011, Fox was director of federal policy at PolicyLink in Oakland, Calif., where she developed and coordinated the organization’s federal policy agenda, crafted and executed the political strategy for shaping legislation being considered by Congress, worked on annual appropriations, and advised the White House. We look forward to seeing Fox shine in this role to modernize our nation’s water infrastructure and help the nation #BuildBackBetter. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Committee%20Holds%20Hearing%20on%20Drinking%20Water%20and%20Wastewater%20Infrastructure%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, April 5, the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Fisheries, Water, and Wildlife held a [hearing](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=AF80422F-ABA5-4396-AE5D-98810B6403C3) to discuss implementation of the [Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/914/text?r=5&s=1#toc-id8236bf64-1606-40b1-b457-f115785fc6be). DWWIA was passed by the Senate last April on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis and was ultimately signed into law in November as a key portion of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). ASCE [endorsed](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2021_asce_letter_support_s914.pdf) DWWIA last April and urged swift passage in the Senate. Hallmark provisions in IIJA which derived from DWWIA include reauthorization and appropriations of nearly $50 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF), including $15 billion for lead service line replacements through the Drinking Water SRF; and reauthorization of the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA). Additional DWWIA provisions in IIJA included: - $1.4 billion for sanitary sewer overflows and stormwater reuse municipal grants; - $510 million for the Assistance for the Small and Disadvantaged Communities Drinking Water Grant program; and - $375 million for the Drinking Water System Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability grant program, and to create a corresponding Clean Water Infrastructure program. The hearing marked the first time the subcommittee had convened since the signing of the IIJA in November. Appearing before the subcommittee were various stakeholders to discuss challenges and opportunities in implementing DWWIA provisions of IIJA. Witnesses included city officials, environmental policy experts, and the nonprofit sector. Mayor Ras J. Baraka of Newark, NJ discussed his city’s [successful effort to replace more than 23,000 lead service lines](https://www.newarkleadserviceline.com/) in Newark in less than three years. He noted that contamination of water from lead service lines disproportionately impacts communities of color, but it is also a challenge that all communities experience, and that he hoped Newark could serve as an example of how to address this challenge. [Joshua Schimmel](https://www.nacwa.org/about-us/board-of-directors/joshua-schimmel), Executive Director of the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission in Springfield, MA, as well as a board member with the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA), spoke of the importance of water infrastructure funds for state agencies in efforts to keep user rates low, and how states need to be innovative in how they use these funds. [Susan Bodine](https://www.earthandwatergroup.com/our-professionals/susan-bodine-esq/), an attorney with Earth and Water Law, LLC spoke of implementation challenges many states may face with such a large influx of funds, including the need for states to satisfy certain conditions and meet certain deadlines for funding use before money is reallocated. Finally, Mark Pepper with the [Wyoming Association of Rural Water Systems](https://www.warws.com/about/about-us) also spoke of the challenges that such a large influx of funds that states will face, including the need to increase state capacity to effectively utilize these funds. Much of the early questioning from subcommittee members such as Subcommittee Chairwoman Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Senate EPW Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE), and Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) focused on Baraka’s successful implementation of Newark’s service line removal program. Baraka emphasized a [“3 pronged approach”](https://www.cdmsmith.com/en/Client-Solutions/Projects/Getting-the-Lead-Out-in-Newark-NJ) which included distribution and installation of point of use filters for residents to limit exposure to led from existing lines, followed by corrosion control replacements to prevent lead from further seeping into water systems, and then finally replacement of service lines. He then went on to discuss how the city was able to implement the program in a three-year time period, as projects of this magnitude tend to take up to 10 years to complete. Newark was able to achieve this by using all information and data available to track every lead service line in the city, making service line replacement mandatory, and receiving help from the New Jersey State legislature through passage of legislation to allow the city to access private property to replace lead lines. Subcommittee Ranking Member Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) posed several questions regarding implementation of IIJA funds, including about potential challenges with [EPA’s guidance memorandum](https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-03/combined_srf-implementation-memo_final_03.2022.pdf) for use of SRF funding. Susan Bodine noted that each state has different definitions of “disadvantaged community”, which are heavily emphasized in EPA’s guidance. Bodine expressed her concern that states may feel as though they are required to revise these definitions, which she felt could cause confusion as states seek to efficiently fund infrastructure projects. Lummis also asked the panel what they felt Congress should be doing to ensure federal dollars are most impactful. Baraka expressed his belief that more funds should go directly to cities so they can be put to use more expeditiously, while Schimmel hoped that independent utilities which serve larger areas may also be eligible to receive funds, and emphasized a need to incentivize innovation in SRF programs. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Administration%20Releases%20Preliminary%20Database%20of%20Disadvantaged%20Communities&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act includes significant funding for infrastructure in disadvantaged communities, baring the question, what exactly qualifies as a disadvantaged community? In the past, it depended on who you asked, with different definitions among the federal agencies. Last week, the Biden Administration took a first step toward standardizing the classification when the White House Council on Environmental Quality released a preliminary database identifying specific census tracts as “distressed.” Factors included in the identification process were extremely wide ranging and included expected loss of population due to climate change, traffic volumes, exposure to bad air quality, and the cost of housing. The Council on Environmental Quality also considered health indicators such as the rate of asthma and heart disease. Comments on the preliminary identification process and results are due April 25. The White House is particularly interested in feedback regarding communities the preliminary tool may have missed that deserve to be classified as distressed. This preliminary database is part of a larger effort, directed by [Executive Order 14008](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/), “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.” EO 14008 creates the [Justice40 Initiative](https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/briefing-room/2021/12/02/delivering-on-justice40/), in which the President directs his agencies to invest 40% of total federal funding to “disadvantaged, marginalized, underserved, an overburdened” communities. This includes federal programs that provide services like affordable housing, workforce development, and those working to address climate change. Related [guidance](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/M-21-28.pdf) was issued in July 2021 that put 21 specific programs on an accelerated track to heed the directive. Fast-tracked programs that include the Department of Homeland Security’s Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, the Environmental Protection Agency’s drinking water and clean water state revolving funds, brownfields Program, and Superfund Remedial Program, and the Energy Department’s Weatherization Assistance Program, among others. ASCE and its members are [committed](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps417---justice-equity-diversity-and-inclusion) to inclusive engineering that recognizes, values, and addresses the unique needs of diverse democratic, social, economic, and cultural groups. This includes promoting accountability and the use of best practices for justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion. 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ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-shelia-montgomery-mills-p-e-m-asce/) **Published:** July 29, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F07%2FShelia-Mill-pic-2-198x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F07%2FShelia-Mill-pic-2-198x300.jpg&description=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shelia%20Montgomery-Mills%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Shelia Montgomery-Mills presenting to fellow ASCE members.](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Shelia-Mill-pic-2-198x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/Shelia-Mill-pic-2.jpg)Shelia Montgomery Mills presenting to fellow ASCE members*Shelia Montgomery-Mills, P.E., M.ASCE, is a manager of projects and systems at Appleseed Workshop and also owns her own consulting firm, Civil Construction Solutions. She works on commercial and residential renewal projects in Birmingham, Alabama.* *Shelia’s experiences in her career, along with attending the ASCE Legislative Fly-In, contributed to her active role in advocacy. The Alabama Section is currently working on a state Report Card and starting a Government Relations Committee, both of which Shelia will be involved with. She also serves as the past-president of the Birmingham Branch, vice president of the Alabama Section and is active with supporting the younger members group.* *If you are interested in becoming involved in ASCE’s Key Contact program and promoting the profession through advocacy, you can l[earn more information and sign up at asce.org](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts/).* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** When I first attended the Fly-In four years ago, it piqued my interest in advocacy and I knew I wanted to go again. The experience made me very interested in how the federal and state governments work together. I started my career in local government, seeing it from the inside, so to then experience the state and federal levels was an exciting new learning experience. I’ve always wondered “how do they get anything done?” given the structure of government. Yet, I also witnessed that when infrastructure is at its best, it improves the community. Through that, I knew it was possible as projects led to growth and change. **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** I make it a point to always discuss MAP-21 and funding for roadways and transit, especially as transit is not readily available in Alabama and I believe it’s a crucial part of building a strong economy. I try to continually tie how infrastructure investment leads to community revitalization and redevelops inner-cities, and the positive impact that can have on the economy. The message that it helps create a better, stronger healthier community that is going to grow is one that I think really resonates with legislators. As Alabama is the only state without a dam safety program, I bring that topic into the conversation by explaining the potential threat to public safety, infrastructure, homes and businesses. I always make a point to discuss the federal funding available to states that have a program. **What levels of government have you focused your efforts on? Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there?** I serve on a local design review committee that is charged with making sure that new developments fit into the neighborhoods and the long range planning of the community. I participate in local public involvement meetings for specific projects and for local community planning efforts. As a small business owner, I am also part of the Birmingham Business Alliance (BBA) and utilize that venue to talk about infrastructure investment. I traveled to our state capital with the BBA promoting similar topics to those discussed at the ASCE Fly-In, as they relate to the state legislature. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** I try to stay up on current issues by reading articles published by various avenues through ASCE, in local publications, including blogs, newsletters, and the local business journal. When a topic is particularly interesting to me, then I make note and start to follow it more closely, seeking out additional information on it. Dedicating myself to reading about local events takes a lot of time, but I try to save articles up for an opportunity when I have an hour or two to dedicate to it. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** Our job is to educate the public as civil engineers. If you say something long enough, people start repeating you. When I first started talking about these issues, even among fellow ASCE members in my branch and section, people were not that engaged. Now, I find them echoing the things I have been saying for years. Explaining things–such as the gas tax and why it matters and the need for a dam safety program in Alabama–helps people understand both sides of the equation. I truly believe that in the end you can make a difference, which I was not sure of at first. Now, looking at things that have been accomplished I am reassured that advocacy is influential and important, especially talking one-on-one to help build the relationship. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** Having something to discuss that I am knowledgeable about has helped me overcome my shyness and reluctance to speak in public. I’ve been put into situations where there was no choice but to speak up and knowing I have something valuable to contribute pushed me to say something. Once I return from the Fly-In, I know I must present to the Branch and report to the Section. The experience has made me a stronger leader, and given me added confidence. When tasked with a new challenge I am encouraged by the things I’ve already accomplished and know that I can take on this new challenge, too. **What has been challenging about being an advocate? What methods have you found effective in working through those challenges? What sort of pitfalls or setbacks have you encountered? And how did you overcome them?** I always respond to hearing “we have a problem,” by saying “no, we have an opportunity.” That definitely applies in advocacy. It is often about finding balance, and saying things in the right way that it will connect with the audience present. It can be a challenge to find opportunities to speak to key people. When the topic is increased taxes or government regulations, many citizens and politicians quickly shutdown or get defensive. It is extremely important to start with the cost of doing nothing and the effect on individuals and our community. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts? Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** It genuinely feels like I am making a difference, and it is an honor to talk about these issues on behalf of others who can’t or won’t raise these topics. It’s also provided a way to meet a lot of great people and give back. I also try to encourage others, especially young engineers, to get involved and find their own rewards through advocacy. Walking the halls and stairwells of congress has been the most memorable. I always make a point to walk the steps so I can see the worn-impressions created in each stair by those before me. I wonder about the many critical decisions made in our history that have brought us to today and, ultimately, what will the effects be in the future for decisions made today. As civil engineers we understand infrastructure, the needs for investment, the value of maintaining what we have verses replacement, and how what was built in our history that has made us the great country we are today. How do we continue so that the same quality of life we enjoyed is passed down for future generations? Tough decisions were made 100, 200 years ago and it brought us to what we have today. Stopping now is not the answer. Having a younger member attend the Fly-In with me this year and sharing my enthusiasm for the whole process made me realize just how much advocacy means to me. I can make a difference in many more ways than I ever thought. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference? How?** I have seen public investment make a difference in communities, which is what encourages me to continue my advocacy efforts. Public support, which often means funding of infrastructure projects, encourages private development leading to economic development with benefits that far outweigh the public funding. I also hear more people talking about the issues, including dam safety and the Report Card. It took a few years, but other people have joined me in advocating on the issues from Alabama. We are planning to release a Report Card because we recognize it’s a valuable tool for advocacy. Seeing other members have an interest is very rewarding for me, especially younger members who have a lot of energy and are interested in finding ways to make a difference, because I know it will make an even greater impact the more people talk about these issues. It is very important to me to encourage younger members’ interest in advocacy and ASCE in general. Our future, and theirs, is in their hands and engagement today will be paid back for years into the future. The youth of today are seeking these opportunities and we must strive to find ways to support their efforts. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** It’s helpful to talk to someone who is already involved in advocacy. I also recommend familiarizing yourself with the issues through newspapers and ASCE materials. By learning more about the issues you will find something that sparks your interest, and that passion can be very motivating. Once you find that passion, get involved! Serve on a local board or commission or committee, become a key contact, attend the Fly-In or Drive-In, or get on an agenda where you can talk to local officials. 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Merfeld, P.E., M.ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-peter-s-merfeld-p-e-m-asce-2/) **Published:** August 27, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FMerfeld1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FMerfeld1.jpg&description=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*Peter S. Merfeld, P.E., M.ASCE is a member of the Maine Section. He has exhibited leadership experience as section president, Maine Report Card chair, and through work on the national Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. He is also a Board member of IBTTA (International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association). These roles led him to become an advocate for infrastructure investment on the state and federal levels, an issue that is particularly important currently as the federal [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) heads toward insolvency.* *As the chief operations officer at the Maine Turnpike Authority, Peter offers day-to-day operational guidance to the Highway & Equipment Maintenance, Engineering & Building Maintenance, and Public Safety departments. He also prepares, plans and oversees the annual Maintenance and Capital Program budget. His role requires him to work closely with the Maine DOT to ensure inter-agency communication and coordination, and review Turnpike policy needs and changes.* *If you are interested in becoming involved in ASCE’s Key Contact program and promoting the profession through advocacy, you can* [*learn more information and sign up at asce.org*](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/)*.* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** In 2006 as President of the Maine Section, fellow ASCE member and Past-President Phil Dunn gave a report that Michael Michaud, Maine Congressman from the 2nd district had asked Phil “Where is the Maine Report Card?” while he was attending the Fly-In. The Report Card on America’s Infrastructure was seen as a credible tool in providing policy makers with facts about the status of our roads, bridges, and other important infrastructure. After talking with others in Maine section ASCE leadership, it was agreed that having a Maine Report Card could be a great tool for Maine civil engineers to engage our policy makers in a conversation about infrastructure funding. An area that we, as a Section, had not done a great job up to that point. The local Report Card though would be a major undertaking. Due to overwhelming support from the section, I made the easy decision that once I completed my tour as Past-President, in fall 2007 I would take on the role of chair of the committee that would develop and create a Report Card for Maine’s Infrastructure. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/merfeld5-1024x767-1.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/merfeld5-1024x767-1.jpg)Peter Merfeld right and Maine Speaker of the House and former Senate President Elizabeth Mitchell at 2008 release of the Report Card for Maines InfrastructureIn December 2008 we held a well-attended media event to introduce the Report Card and the reaction was very positive and supportive. Many legislators took an interest and began to use the Report Card to support their positions. I was happy in March 2009 to bring that Report Card to Washington, DC and represent my profession with facts and appropriate policy recommendations to assure safe and reliable infrastructure. In 2012 we were able to update the Report Card for Maine and continue to provide credible evidence as to the condition of our infrastructure. I joined the Committee for America’s Infrastructure in 2009 and have enjoyed sharing Report Card updates and other major policy initiatives as part of the Fly-Ins over the past several years. **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** Utilizing the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* on the national level and the Maine Report Card as a tool for the state level, ASCE has been instrumental in bringing civil engineers to the forefront as experts in defining the problem with infrastructure, especially transportation. As a Board member for the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), I also represent the tolling industry, which advocates for sustainable transportation funding, especially for highways and bridges. As such, the top priority has been sustainable transportation funding. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Merfedl2-1.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Merfedl2-1.jpg)Maine delegation in 2014 with Peter Merfeld presenting the 2013 Report Card for Americas Infrastructure app to Senator Susan Collins Maine staff member John Kane**What levels of government have you focused your efforts on? Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there?** I have advocated on both the state and federal levels, because of the information from the Report Cards, and the committees which I serve on representing those jurisdictions. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** ASCE Fly-Ins offer a great deal of training and support for any advocacy in Washington, DC. Locally, the ASCE Section Board as well as assistance from local experts and transportation advocates provide input and direction. During the Legislative session, I monitor legislative documents and potential legislation for possible areas of concern and highlight to the section board for review. As a former Board Director for AGCMaine, and a member of the Maine Better Transportation Association I am included in their distribution lists for legislative outreach or major policy initiatives that may interest other civil engineers. In addition, my current boss, Peter Mills, was a state senator for over 20 years and is well versed in the activities of State Legislature. I use him as a sounding board when ever I can. Typically I would participate in discussion about issues where the ASCE Maine Section Board should take a position and if requested I assist in writing the testimony for the public hearing. In February 2014, for example, I became aware of a public information meeting by the MaineDOT and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for dredging in Searsport harbor. Due to the importance of this harbor as part of Maine’s 3 port strategy, I wrote a letter in support of the project and engaged the Maine Section. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** Most of all, that infrastructure is taken for granted. The general public trusts that professional civil engineers know what needs to be done and will do it. The issue usually revolves around policy and funding. Unless more people who use and support safe, reliable, sustainable infrastructure get involved, get educated on the issues and are vocal, policy makers will not act with expediency to solve the long-term crisis. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/merfeld4-1024x6821.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/merfeld4-1024x6821.jpg)Congresswoman Chellie Pingree Maine speaks with ASCE representatives from Maine in March 2012 Greg Blake Peter Merfeld Jason Gallant and Walter Fagerlund**Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** Absolutely. As an engineer I enjoy a challenge and trying to fix a problem. Once the problem is identified, in order to get funding and support, a convincing argument must be made for why the problem needs to be fixed and how it will get fixed. Researching your audience, making credible and concise arguments, and ultimately making a convincing case within a limited timeframe are important tools for all future leaders, regardless of the topic. The challenge is finding an audience willing to listen. On occasion there seems to be disinterest as our issues seem small in comparison to other issues facing policy makers at the moment. Again, there is a great deal of complacency regarding infrastructure and short-term maintenance always seems to be the answer given. Putting the issues into terms that your audience can understand and utilize is critical. This ensures they can, in turn, convince someone else it is important. Whether it be jobs for constituents, saving lives or long-term reduction in consumption of fossil fuels, the terms used need to resonate. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference? How?** I know the Report Cards are making a difference. The media attention alone has helped push the issue and will over time increase involvement of the general public. Policy makers can see an increase in grades or decrease and can judge if their actions are working in short-term or if more work needs to be done. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** Talk to members of the leadership team in your section. Talk to the people at your organization who are involved in advocacy to get insight. Start small with issues you are passionate about, involve other people and most important get to know your legislators. They would love to hear from an EXPERT! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Peter%20S.%20Merfeld%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Maine, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** advocacy, advocacy profile, Maine --- ### [ASCE Observes National Dam Safety Awareness Day](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-observes-national-dam-safety-awareness-day/) **Published:** May 31, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[“National Dam Safety Awareness Day”](https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/dam-safety/awareness-day). Nationwide, more than 92,000 dams serve a variety of functions and provide numerous services including irrigation, water conservation, flood protection. Ensuring the safety and sustainability of the nation’s dams is a top infrastructure priority for ASCE, and we strongly support efforts to raise greater awareness of dam safety issues. National Dam Safety Awareness Day is observed this year in remembrance of the 132nd anniversary of the [South Fork Dam Failure](https://damfailures.org/case-study/south-fork-dam-pennsylvania-1889/), which occurred on May 31, 1889 near Johnstown, PA. The dam’s failure resulted in the deaths of more than 2,200 people in what came to be known as the “Johnstown Flood”. Dam failures like the tragedy of the South Fork Dam serve as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining and effectively managing the nation’s dams. This includes robust investment in federal dam safety programs, support for the continued development of state dam safety programs, and engaging with the downstream communities in order to help spread awareness of potential risks. ASCE’s [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Dams-2021.pdf) gives the nation’s dams a “D” grade. Of the nation’s 92,000 dams, more than 15,000 are classified as having “high hazard potential”, meaning that dam failure would result in the loss of life. Nationwide, the number of high hazard potential dams more than doubled during the first two decades of the 21st century. While this is indicative of increased state investment in dam safety programs which has allowed for better assessment of dams and ability to identify rehabilitation needs as well as hazard potential, it also makes clear that increased federal investment is needed to ensure the safety of dams nationwide. Programs like the National Dam Safety Program and the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant program provide states with needed resources to conduct assessments and inspections, support state program staffing needs, and make needed repairs to faltering dams. Both of these programs received support last year through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Dam safety programs saw an investment of nearly $3.1 billion under IIJA, including $215 million for state assistance grants and FEMA Operations and Support funds under the National Dam Safety Program, and $585 million for the High Hazard Potential Rehabilitation Grant Program. While this was an important down payment, these programs are drastically underfunded each year under annual Congressional appropriations. According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO), the estimated total cost to rehabilitate the nation’s non-federal dams is approximately $75.7 billion. In Fiscal Year 2022, Congress provided the National Dam Safety Program with $9.7 million, and the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program $12 million, both well below the authorized funding levels. To address the needs and challenges faced by the nation’s dams, Congress must take action to provide robust support for dam safety programs. This includes providing the fully funding the National Dam Safety Program at $13.9 million, and the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program at $60 million in FY 2023. Congress should also take swift action to reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program, which is set to expire at the end of FY 2023. ASCE is proud to support these efforts and urges continued awareness of issues surrounding down safety. Dams serve as a critical component of our nation’s infrastructure, and ASCE is committed to enhancing dam safety, increasing awareness, and supporting measures to strengthen dam resilience. 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inauguration, infrastructure-related agencies across the federal government already had key nominations put forth. While more nominations will be announced in the coming weeks, the Biden Administration announced the following nominations: - President Biden [nominated](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2021/1/ni) former Mayor Pete Buttigieg to be Secretary of the [Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/) (DOT) and Ms. Polly Trottenberg to be DOT Deputy Secretary. Prior to his nomination, Buttigieg was a 2020 Democratic presidential candidate and Mayor of South Bend, IN from 2012-2020. During his confirmation hearing, Buttigieg highlighted his experience in infrastructure investment as a tool for economic growth and development, specifically discussing the [SMART Streets Innovation](https://smartstreets.southbendin.gov/) in South Bend. He also took the opportunity to discuss further investment in the [INFRA](https://www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/financing/infra-grants/infrastructure-rebuilding-america) and [BUILD](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/about) grant programs as well as continued engagement with connected and autonomous vehicles. Several times during the hearing, Senators shared concerns about [Highway Trust Fund](https://fixthetrustfund.org/) (HTF) revenue shortfalls. Buttigieg stated that all options are on the table to ensure predictability and sustainability of our surface transportation network—including exploring options like [vehicle miles traveled](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-highway-trust-fund-needs-fixing-is-a-vmt-tax-the-answer/) (VMT). He also expressed support of financing tools like [advance refunding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-bill-would-reinstate-advance-refunding-bonds-for-infrastructure/). ASCE has submitted a statement to be included in the record, congratulating Buttigieg on his nomination and expressing our eagerness to work with DOT and Congress to modernize our nation’s transportation systems. The Senate Commerce Committee has yet to set a date for Buttigieg’s committee confirmation before being voted on before the full Senate. - Polly Trottenberg most recently served as Commissioner of New York City’s Department of Transportation. Before this most recent role, she served as DOT Under Secretary for Policy and served as a transportation policy advisor for Senator Chuck Schumer former Senators Barbara Boxer and Pat Moynihan. Trottenberg’s nomination hearing has yet to be scheduled. - Michael Regan has been nominated to lead the [Environmental Protection Agency](https://www.epa.gov/) (EPA) and Ms. Radhika Fox has been tapped to lead EPA’s [Office of Water](https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-office-water). In 2017, Regan became Secretary of North Carolina’s Department of Environmental Quality. Regan had also worked with EPA’s air quality and energy programs for the Clinton and Bush administrations. Before leaving the agency, Regan served as a national program manager responsible for designing programs aimed at reducing pollution, and market-based solutions to improve energy efficiency, air quality and climate-related challenges. Currently serving as CEO of the U.S. Water Alliance, Fox has close ties to the President having been in an advisory role during his presidential campaign. Between 2011-15, Fox served as Director of Policy and Government Affairs for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and from 2000-11, she served as Director of Federal Policy at PolicyLink. Fox has also been a [partner with ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/radhika-fox-us-water-alliance-ceo-and-asce-partner-joins-epa-office-of-water/), serving together on the [United for Infrastructure Steering Committee](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/) and on the [Value of Water Coalition](http://thevalueofwater.org/about-us/what-we-do), of which she served as director during her time at the Water Alliance. In this role, she also partnered with ASCE on its seminal water infrastructure economic study, “*[The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure: How a Failure to Act Would Affect the U.S. Economy Recovery.” ](https://www.asce.org/water_and_wastewater_report/ "The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure: How a Failure to Act Would Affect the U.S. Economy Recovery")*The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has not yet scheduled the nomination hearings for Regan, and it is unclear if Fox’s role will require Senate confirmation. - The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas has been nominated to be Secretary of the [Department of Homeland Security](https://www.dhs.gov/) (DHS). Prior to his nomination, Mayorkas served as Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security during the Obama Administration and as United States Attorney in the Central District of California. Much of Mayorkas’ nomination hearing focused on non-infrastructure related issues, but if confirmed he would oversee the [Federal Emergency Management Agency](https://www.fema.gov/) (FEMA) and disaster response. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee has yet to set a date for Mayorkas’ committee confirmation before being voted on before the full Senate. - Congresswoman Deb Haaland (NM1) has been nominated to be Secretary of the [Department of the Interior](https://www.doi.gov/). A member of the Pueblo of Laguna, Haaland would be the first Native American to lead the Department which has jurisdiction over the nation’s tribes, management, and conservation of most federal lands (including the National Park Service) and natural resources, as well as programs related to historic preservation. Elected to Congress in 2018, Haaland had previously served as the Chair of the New Mexico Democratic Party and ran for Lieutenant Governor in 2014. The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has yet to announce a date for her confirmation hearing. Infrastructure is the backbone of a strong nation and economy and the key to economic recovery. While the impacts of underinvestment and the COVID-19 pandemic continue to wreak havoc across our nation’s infrastructure, now is the time to invest to ensure our communities are not left behind. ASCE is eager to work with officials across the Biden Administration to achieve the goal of building back better and ensuring our infrastructure systems meet the demands of the 21st century. 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major change in direction from the Trump era by halting fossil fuel activity on public lands and directing the U.S. government to prioritize reducing emissions. His sweeping [executive order on climate](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/), released on Wednesday, January 27, includes instruction for the U.S. government to pause and review all oil and gas drilling on federal land, eliminate fossil fuel subsidies, and transform the government’s vast fleet of cars and trucks into electric vehicles. Last week, Biden opened his climate change agenda by revoking a key cross-border presidential permit needed to finish the controversial Keystone XL pipeline. This likely means the end of the $8 billion pipeline, a years-long project that would have carried oil sands crude from Alberta, Canada to the American Gulf Coast. Biden’s ambitious climate plan will attempt to bring together a much larger coalition than former President Barack Obama had 12 years ago — a coalition that ranges from labor unions, anti-fracking activists, and racial justice advocates to leaders of Wall Street, the auto industry, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The challenge will be holding together this broad stakeholder group, with its many competing agendas, long enough to make progress in Congress. Specifics of the plan include: - A shift to zero-emission vehicles for federal, state, local, and tribal government fleets, including vehicles of the United States Postal Service; - A “pause” on new oil and natural gas leases on public lands or in offshore waters pending a comprehensive review; - The elimination of federal subsidies for fossil fuels; - A sustainable infrastructure initiative with the White House Council on Environmental Quality and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) working to ensure that federal infrastructure investment reduces climate pollution; - A reversal of Trump-era rules that stopped federal agencies from considering the effects of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change in their environmental reviews; - The establishment of a Civilian Climate Corps; - An environmental justice initiative working to ensure that 40%of the benefits of federal investments in energy, transit and other programs flow to disadvantaged communities; and - Inclusion of the Secretary of Transportation on task forces, working groups, and interagency councils focused on climate, environmental justice, and the economic revitalization of coal and power plant communities. ASCE supports developing resilient solutions to the climate challenges facing the nation’s critical infrastructure. In November 2019, ASCE submitted testimony to the [Congressional Select Committee on the Climate](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=37963) Crisis. That testimony noted that one of the best tactics we have to address climate change is to use the best available information and industry standards to strengthen our infrastructure systems and to plan for the future. [The testimony also shared ASCE initiatives](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-recommendations-adopted-in-house-climate-crisis-action-plan/) that address climate change such as the [Manual of Practice 140, *Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adaptive Design and Risk Management*](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415191) and the upcoming [Sustainable Infrastructure Standard](https://www.asce.org/templates/press-release-detail.aspx?id=39661), as well as ASCE’s support of [life-cycle cost analysis](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-451---life-cycle-cost-analysis/) and the greater adoption of [industry codes and standards.](https://www.asce.org/codes_and_standards/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Old](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-infrastructure-law-turns-one-year-old/) **Published:** November 17, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Law%20Turns%20One%20Year%20Old&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F01%2FBlogImageIIJAResourceCenter-e1642709595755.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Law%20Turns%20One%20Year%20Old "Share on 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The five-year, $1.2 trillion infrastructure package, which garnered just enough bipartisan support to pass in Congress, is the country’s largest investment in infrastructure in nearly a century. Since its enactment last year, funds from the law have been issued to support efforts to improve each of the categories included in ASCE’s [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*.* According to the Biden-Harris Administration, some $185 billion in funding has been announced through the law to support thousands of projects in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the territories. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) [reports](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-celebrates-year-one-accomplishments-under-bipartisan-infrastructure-law) $5.5 billion of the $14.1 billion available in Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 has been awarded, supporting water infrastructure projects and clean school buses. Further, the EPA released the “[Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Year One Anniversary Report](https://www.epa.gov/system/files/documents/2022-11/BIL_Anniversary_Report_11142022.pdf)” detailing the agency’s investments in communities. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has churned out various grant awards, including $120 billion in apportionments for roads and bridges for FY 2022 and 2023, $2.2 billion through the [Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program](https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants), and $703 million for port facilities. With the infrastructure law’s support, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has [announced funding](https://www.usda.gov/media/press-releases/2022/11/15/fact-sheet-one-year-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-usda) for rural broadband development through the ReConnect Program to narrow the digital divide. ASCE has stayed engaged with implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law, having created the IIJA [Resource Center](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) to offer legislative analysis and track announcements as well as hosting regular webinars to explore different aspects of the legislation. Additionally, ASCE created a [timeline](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iija-timeline/) listing open funding opportunities and launched a [map highlighting projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/). To optimize the investment of the many programs included in the IIJA, ASCE developed [key implementation recommendations](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-07-19-iija-implementation-recommendations.pdf) geared toward Congress, the Administration, and state and local government agencies. The White House Infrastructure Implementation Team released updated [state-by-state fact sheets](https://www.whitehouse.gov/build/state-fact-sheets/) and a [new map](https://www.whitehouse.gov/build/maps-of-progress/) indicating where funding has been awarded. To commemorate the IIJA’s one-year mark, the White House held a briefing November 15th with various officials, including Senior Advisor and Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landrieu and Senior Advisor for Public Engagement Keisha Lance Bottoms. Over the past year, the White House has also issued guidance to assist state, local, Tribal, and territorial government agencies with implementing the law. Among them are the [Permitting Action Plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Biden-Harris-Permitting-Action-Plan.pdf), [the Accelerating Infrastructure Action Plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Action-Plan-for-Accelerating-Infrastructure-October-2022.pdf), and the [Talent Pipeline Challenge](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/06/17/fact-sheet-the-biden-harris-administration-launches-the-talent-pipeline-challenge-supporting-employer-investments-in-equitable-workforce-development-for-infrastructure-jobs/). Additionally, President Joe Biden convened a [National Infrastructure Advisory Council](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/31/president-biden-announces-appointments-to-the-presidents-national-infrastructure-advisory-council/), which includes two ASCE leaders— Maria Lehman, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE, ASCE’s President, and Norma Jean Mattei, Ph.D., P.E., F.SEI, F.ASCE, who served as President of ASCE in 2017 and currently sits on the ASCE New Orleans Branch’s Chapter of the Structural Engineering Institute. The IIJA reached the one-year mark one week after the 2022 midterm elections, prompting analysis of the law’s effect on results. All six Republicans in the House of Representatives who voted for the IIJA won their re-election campaigns. Additionally, even with the massive investment contained in the IIJA, voters indicated infrastructure is still an important issue. The American Road and Transportation Builders Association [reported](https://www.artba.org/2022/11/09/public-support-for-state-local-transportation-funding-improvements-remains-strong/) voters in 18 states approved 88% of the 380 state and local ballot initiatives dedicated to improving infrastructure across the country. With one year of the five-year IIJA in the rearview mirror, ASCE will continue to track implementation of the law as key investments are realized long into the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Law%20Turns%20One%20Year%20Old&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Infrastructure Gets "C" Grade, Say Virginia Engineers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-gets-c-grade-say-virginia-engineers/) **Published:** December 6, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Gets%20%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade%2C%20Say%20Virginia%20Engineers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Virginia Section of the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/) (ASCE) released the *2022* [*Report Card for Virginia’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/virginia/) on December 6, 2022. ASCE members offered several years of volunteer effort to produce the assessment and announced the results in Virginia Beach beside the Lesner Bridge, which Virginia’s Department of Transportation recently [reconstructed](https://www.roadsbridges.com/bridges/article/10652264/no-4-bridge-lesner-bridge). The new report card contains 11 categories of infrastructure receiving an overall grade of a ‘C’. That means Virginia’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. Virginia is a step ahead of the national average of ‘C-‘ given in the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](http://infrastructurereportcard.org). Nine of the 11 categories ranked higher than the national grades, as only rail (‘C-‘ compared to the national ‘B’ grade) and wastewater (tied with the national grade of ‘D+’) ranked the same or lower, a testament to the state’s prioritization of its built environment. Virginia has implemented ambitious plans to improve each of its infrastructure systems and additional resources from the state level and the bipartisan infrastructure law will help these efforts. Civil engineers graded bridges (B), dams (C+), drinking water (C+), public parks (C), rail (C-), roads (C-), schools (C-), solid waste (B-), stormwater (C-), transit (C-), and wastewater (D+). Virginia’s transportation sector has performed better than the national average. Roughly 3% of the state’s bridges are in poor condition – less than half the national average of 7.5% — and the percentage of roads in ‘good’ condition rose from 48% in 2018 to 51% in 2022. Virginia is also a regional leader in transit services with connection to the Washington, D.C. Metro system and with 41 transit systems across the state, some of which have already surpassed pre-pandemic ridership levels. However, wastewater systems, despite making progress by reducing sewage overflows, face more than $6 billion in needs over 20 years and will need significantly more resources to improve systems and protect water quality for communities and the natural environment. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, which include: - **Ambitiously seek federal funding available from recent federal legislation such as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and American Rescue Plan Acts of 2021**, plus the Inflation Reduction Act and CHIPS+ laws from 2022, provide limited time opportunities to close the infrastructure gaps identified in this report. - **Follow through on plans to advance transportation and water projects.** Virginia’s authorized plans at the state and metropolitan level feature actions to raise the grade of every infrastructure category. However, plans to spend money in the next few years won’t amount to positive change unless decision-makers at those state and local levels appropriate and allocate the funds during a likely upcoming economic downturn. - **Consider equity and climate change when implementing investment.** Many projects are “shovel ready,” but a smaller group is “shovel-worthy.” When making that judgement, historical and present-day equity data – as well as the threats from climate change – should be centered. This begins with technical assistance and cross-jurisdictional collaboration. A central constraint to improving Virginia’s infrastructure are the resource and staffing levels at smaller and disadvantaged communities. 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Caroline Sevier, ASCE Director of Government Relations* The full impacts of the 2022 election are not yet known, with many U.S. House elections still not called and control of the U.S. Senate possibly headed to a runoff election in Georgia. However, one thing that is clear is infrastructure once again proves to be a winner on the ballot. As has historically been the case, a majority of state and local infrastructure measures passed on Election Day, clearly demonstrating that voters support making investments that will improve our infrastructure and grow the economy. In fact, the American Road & Transportation Builders Association [reports](https://www.artba.org/2022/11/09/public-support-for-state-local-transportation-funding-improvements-remains-strong/) voters in 18 states approved 88 percent of the 380 state and local ballot initiatives dedicated to improving infrastructure across the country. To emphasize that point even further, all six House Republicans who ran for reelection after bucking their leadership and voting YES on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act won their reelection bids on Tuesday. So, what are some of the expected impacts on the nation’s infrastructure from the 2022 midterm elections? Starting at the federal level, the next two years could see a split U.S. Congress with a possibility of Republicans taking control of the House, while Democrats maintain control of a 50-50 Senate. This congressional split will likely result in rigorous House oversight and investigations into core pieces of President Biden’s agenda, such as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). Much of this oversight is expected to fall on the Department of Transportation, which still has over $300 billion from the IIJA authorized, but not yet appropriated. However, Republicans will not have enough of a majority to overturn turn any existing laws, like the Inflation Reduction Act, or override any Presidential vetoes. Going forward, ASCE will closely track appropriations related to the IIJA and infrastructure funding under the Inflation Reduction Act and will strongly urge Congress to appropriate all funding levels authorized by both pieces of legislation. Next, if Republicans take control of the House, it will mean leadership changes across committees. Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), the current Ranking Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, is expected to step into the chairmanship. However, with the current Chair Peter DeFazio (D-OR) retiring, the top Democrat on the committee remains in question, with both Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA) and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) vying for the position. In the Senate, if Democrats retain the majority, Sen. Carper (D-DE) will likely remain in the top slot at the Environment and Public Works Committee, while Sen. Cantwell (D-WA) would retain the gavel at the Commerce Committee. The incoming Ranking Member on Commerce would be Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX). With FAA Reauthorization up in 2023, the Chair and Ranking Member will have a large impact in the drafting of that legislation. Next, turning to state ballots, those that passed are expected to generate $20 billion in one time and recurring revenue for transportation improvement projects. These funds will help states and localities compete for IIJA competitive discretionary grants in the upcoming years. Among some of the key outcomes, **Texas voters approved 114 measures**, totaling $12.7 billion, the most of any state, while millionaire taxes to fund infrastructure in California and Massachusetts had mixed results. ASCE has a comprehensive breakdown for how ballot measures fared in [our tracker](https://www.dropbox.com/s/mty1xf8d0v1kds2/2022%20Ballot%20Intiative%20Matrix%20-%20Final%20Results.pdf?dl=0), but below is a list of a few highlights. ***State Measures*** **Alabama Amendment #2 –** *Passed* **–** The state constitutional amendment passed with 78 percent approval and will allow local governments to use funding provided for broadband internet infrastructure under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and award such funds to public or private entities. **California Proposition 30** *– Failed* – This proposition would have increased the tax on income for those earning over $2 million. Eighty percent of the revenue would have supported zero-emissions vehicle infrastructure and purchases and would have targeted spending in disadvantaged communities. **Massachusetts Fair Share Amendment –** *Passed* **–** The amendment will charge an additional tax on high income earners, directing revenue to modernizing transit and bridges throughout the state. ***Local Measures*** **Arizona’s Pinal County Proposition 469 –** *Trailing* **–** The measure would increase the county sales tax and raise over $1 billion to fund the county’s transportation connectivity plan over the next 20 years. Sixty-nine percent of the revenue would go to roadway projects and 31 percent to transit. **Denver Deserve Sidewalks –** *Passed* **–** The initiative would raise half-million dollars each year and support the city’s work to rehabilitate and maintain its roadway network pavement. **Texas’ Brazos County Transportation Initiatives** – *Split* – Brazos County asked voters to consider two transportation-related propositions that would help fund local road improvements. Proposition A, a $100 million bond that would help the county cover a portion of eight major road and bridge projects, passed comfortably. Meanwhile, Proposition B, which would have added a $10 fee to local vehicle registrations to help fund the county’s Regional Mobility Authority, failed by around 10,000 votes. **Carson City, Nevada Diesel Tax** – *Failed* – Question 1, which asked residents to continue the locality’s 5-cent tax on diesel fuel, failed on Tuesday night. Continuing the tax was estimated to raise a half-million dollars annually to support the city’s work to rehabilitat [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Wins%20on%20the%20State%20and%20Local%20Ballots%20This%20Election%20Day&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Wins%20on%20the%20State%20and%20Local%20Ballots%20This%20Election%20Day "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Wins%20on%20the%20State%20and%20Local%20Ballots%20This%20Election%20Day&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [Minnesota Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a “C” Grade for the Second Time](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/minnesota-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade-for-the-second-time/) **Published:** April 28, 2022 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Minnesota%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade%20for%20the%20Second%20Time&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, April 26, the Minnesota Section of ASCE unveiled its 2022 Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure, the state’s first report card since 2018. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “C”, which is better than the national grade of “C-.” A “C” grade means the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition. The report analyzes 10 categories of infrastructure pertinent to Minnesota: aviation (B), bridges (C), dams (C), drinking water (C-), energy (C), parks (B-), ports (C-), roads (D+), transit (C-) and wastewater (C). Minnesota Report Card co-chair Katie Zadrozny and Andy Nordseth presented the findings to an in-person audience at the Minnesota State Capitol building in Saint Paul, MN, while the Duluth Section of ![Group of people on a stage behind a wooden podium during a press conference or formal event, blue backdrop with a dome image.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/MN-Release-02-400x300.jpg "MN Release 02")Minnesota Report Card co chair Katie Zadrozny reveals the reports findingsDuluth press conference featured remarks from Emily Larson, Duluth Mayor, and Matt Baumgartner, President, Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce. ASCE unveiled the report’s findings at a construction site in Duluth. The Saint Paul crowd received remarks from Rep. Dean Urdahl, R-Grove City; Sen. Sandy Pappas, DFL-St. Paul; Tom Worke, CEO, Associated General Contractors of MN; and John Linc Stine, Executive Director, Freshwater. The Minnesota has taken steps to make its infrastructure network more sustainable to withstand increasingly severe weather, but additional steps must be taken as the state’s infrastructure is aging. Funding has been limited for systems throughout the state, particularly for surface transportation networks, and local and state funding must be increased to bring these critical systems up to speed. Despite recent investments, Minnesota’s transportation network is severely underfunded. The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will help, but local and state funding and financing is necessary to bring the state’s roads (D+), bridges (C), and transit (C-) network up to speed and meet matching requirements to qualify for federal funding. There are 874 bridges in poor condition in Minnesota, a decrease from 1,080 bridges in poor condition in 2017. While this is encouraging, the number of bridges that have slipped from good to fair condition is growing. More than 1,400 bridges are posted with load restrictions, which inhibits economic efficiency. The state’s ports (C-) have sufficient capacity for current and future cargo demands – as the network currently supports movement of 65 to 75 million tons of cargo annually – but facility operators are encountering accelerated freshwater corrosion of steel structures, increased storm frequency and flooding, and dredging backlogs. Existing steel structures are being remediated utilizing unique corrosion remediation methods, but the costs of project requests for these needs are more than double currently available funding. An emerging area of concern is the amount of lead in drinking water (C-), which is caused by lead service lines. In 2020, one community system in Minnesota exceeded the lead action level and 28 exceeded the copper action level; five noncommunity systems exceeded the lead action level, and six exceeded the copper action level. Much of the drinking water infrastructure in the state is over 50 years old, with some system components being closer to 100 years old and reaching the end of their useful life. Age has a direct correlation with system effectiveness and reliability. As of 2020, Minneapolis averaged approximately 44 prominent water main breaks a year and most pipes involved were over 100 years old. In St. Paul, where the infrastructure is over 100 years old, the city averaged 124 water main breaks along its 1,200 miles of service lines from 2016-2021. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates the 20-year drinking water infrastructure need for Minnesota is over $7.5 billion. Public parks (B-) are among the greatest draws to the state with St. Paul being ranked No. 2 and Minneapolis No. 3 by the Trust for Public Land’s Park Score in 2021. Nature-based tourism contributes to the $12.5 billion annual sales that result from overall travel and tourism within the state. However, the state is challenged to maintain basic operations at many state recreation facilities and more and more people are engaging in the outdoors but funds available for basic maintenance and expansion have not kept pace. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, including recommending the Minnesota legislature act to maximize available federal dollars through the IIJA by providing the required matching formula funds over the next five years, and encouraging water utilities, municipalities, and other infrastructure owners to consider adopting asset management strategies to stretch available dollars and prioritize needed repairs. To view the report card and all 10 categories, visit <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/Minnesota/>. 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Infrastructure, State, State Report --- ### [Senate EPW Committee Advances the 2022 WRDA Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-epw-committee-advances-wrda-2022/) **Published:** May 5, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20EPW%20Committee%20Advances%20the%202022%20WRDA%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F01%2FResource-center-3-670-303.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20EPW%20Committee%20Advances%20the%202022%20WRDA%20Bill "Share on 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The committee held a brief but collegial [hearing](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=FFAE7D68-7BDF-44F8-AADC-004200D83414) on Wednesday where the bill was unanimously reported favorably to the Senate floor. The full Senate is expected to take up WRDA by early June, with the House expected to follow soon after. This keeps the bill on pace to maintain the biennial time frame for consideration that has generally been observed for the water infrastructure bill in recent years. The WRDA bill focuses on several new water infrastructure projects, as well as modifications for ongoing projects nationwide. It provides $24.6 billion for 21 new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) projects related to ports and inland waterways, flood risk management, storm risk reduction, and ecosystem restoration. The largest of these authorizations supports a $19 billion federal investment for the [Coastal Texas Protection and Restoration Feasibility Study](https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/energy-environment/2021/09/10/408118/army-corps-releases-final-29-billion-ike-dike-study-for-congressional-approval/), which proposes the development of a new coastal storm barrier along Texas’s Gulf Coast. This proposal was formulated in the wake of [Hurricane Ike](https://www.hcfcd.org/About/Harris-Countys-Flooding-History/Hurricane-Ike-2008), which devastated towns along the Gulf Coast in 2008 and was the third costliest hurricane in U.S. history. While the WRDA bill provides a heavy focus on Corps projects, it also proposes several policy changes to the nation’s water infrastructure policies. Provisions in the 2022 WRDA bill include: - Declaring U.S. policy to guard shorelines and riverbanks from the severe effects of climate change - Adjustment of the coast share formula for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund - Authorizing dredging activities in underserved community harbors - New efforts to support the Corps’ workforce through recruitment for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers - Measures to enhance climate resilience for water infrastructure - Improvements to dam and levee safety programs ## Prioritizing Resilience in the WRDA Bill WRDA 2022 includes several measures which recognize the need to enhance the resilience of the nation’s water infrastructure. It does so by first making climate resilience for the nation’s coastlines, riverbanks, and streambeds a centerpiece of U.S. policy. To do this, the legislation authorizes the Corps to carry out restoration and protection projects for coastlines and riverbanks, and it does so in an environmentally just manner by reducing the non-federal cost-share on such projects to 10% for disadvantaged communities. Additionally, the WRDA bill allows emergency funds to be used to enhance resilience measures for federal hurricane and shore protection projects, and it includes “Sense of Congress” language, which says that federal disaster recovery projects and repairs should be done in a manner that either restores the original project design levels or enhances project design levels if the original is out of date. ## Inland Waterways WRDA 2022 also includes several provisions to support the development and improvement of the nation’s inland waterways. Specifically, the bill adjusts the cost share of the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) from 65% general revenue and 35% IWTF to 75%25%.ASCE strongly supports this provision and [recommends this action](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Inland-Waterways-2021.pdf) in the *2021 Report Card for America’s* *Infrastructure* in order to raise the nation’s “D+” inland waterways grade. The legislation also authorizes the Corps to dredge underserved community harbors and inland waterways. This will help to address a more than $12 billion funding gap for waterside infrastructure needs, including dredging activity, over the next 10 years. ## STEM Workforce Focus for the Corps This year’s WRDA also includes provisions to strengthen the infrastructure workforce by fostering careers in STEM fields. The bill authorizes the Corps to carry out activities to strengthen STEM education awareness and recruit men and women in these fields for careers with the Corps. It allows the Corps to partner with nonprofits, colleges, universities, and technical schools to carry out these activities, and it prioritizes the recruitment of individuals from underserved communities. Strengthening the nation’s STEM workforce and fostering the development of a new generation of civil engineers is critical to ensuring that the U.S. can continue designing and building critical infrastructure for the 21st century. The 2021 report card [recommends the establishment of programs to support next-generation growth in “green collar” jobs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Stormwater-2021.pdf) with individuals who can support the development and management of modern systems. ## Dams and Levees in the WRDA Bill Finally, the Senate’s version of this legislation includes provisions to enhance the safety of the nation’s dams and levees. The nation’s 92,000 dams and nearly 30,000 miles of levees are critical components of the nation’s water infrastructure, and they support risk reduction, ensure the safety of communities, and protect trillions of dollars in property. It is estimated, however, that the nation’s dams require more than $70 billion in rehabilitation efforts, while the cost of maintaining and improving the nation’s levees over the next decade is roughly $80 billion. These factors contributed to ASCE giving a “D” grade to [dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Dams-2021.pdf) and [levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Levees-2021.pdf) nationwide in its 2021 report card. While the WRDA bill did not include sweeping changes to the nation’s dam safety programs, it does require the Corps to establish a new National Low-Head Dam Inventory to account for the nation’s low-head dams. Low-head dams are smaller, man-made structures in which water flows over the entire length of the dam. These dams can pose significant public hazards by creating strong, recirculating currents that can trap people under water. Identifying and monitoring these types of dams nationwide will contribute to the overall safety of the nation’s dams and help save lives. To address the condition of the nation’s levees, the Senate’s WRDA legislation expands the scope of the Levee Rehabilitation Assistance Program. It does so by including levee improvements to increase climate resilience and reduce flood risk under the definition of “rehabilitation”. It also increases the maximum amount of federal funds that can be provided for rehabilitation projects from $10 million to $25 million, and it prioritizes projects in economically disadvantaged communities. ASCE strongly supports the 2022 Water Resources and Development Act and urges continued progress and timely passage by the House and Senate in order to continue WRDA’s two-year schedule. We will continue monitoring the WRDA legislative process as it develops. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Tennessee%20Engineers%20Give%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Tennessee Section of the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/) (ASCE) released the *2022* [*Report Card for Tennessee’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/tennessee/) on November 16, 2022, beside a TN DOT project [upgrading](https://www.tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-3/nashville-broadway-viaduct.html) the Broadway Street bridge. The span crosses a rail viaduct carrying increasing numbers of passengers choosing train travel. The new report card contains 13 categories of infrastructure receiving an overall grade of a ‘C’, the same grade given by the section in its 2016 report. That means Tennessee’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention, but is a step ahead of the national average of “C-” given in the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](http://infrastructurereportcard.org). Tennessee’s freight rail network is strong and plays a major role in the national economy as a key mobility hub. Its energy grid has been reliable, allowing families and businesses to operate efficiently. Many of the state’s systems are performing at or above national averages; however, a surge in population growth, increasingly severe weather impacts, and insufficient data on the current condition of several infrastructure sectors threaten the long-term viability of the state’s overall network. Civil engineers graded aviation (C+), bridges (B), dams (D+), drinking water (C+), energy (C+), inland waterways (C), parks (C+), rail (C), roads (C), solid waste (C+), stormwater (C+), transit (D+), and wastewater (C-). “This report shows that Tennessee’s infrastructure is a driving force behind the economic strength in our state and our state’s significant role in the national supply chain,” said Monica Sartain, chair for the *2022 Report Card for Tennessee’s Infrastructure. “*We cannot begin taking these systems for granted if we want to sustain our current successes with population growth adding strain to the existing system.” The report includes calls to action to raise the grades, which include: - **Increase the availability and acquisition of data used for design, planning, and other decision-making processes.** TN collects a lot of data on transportation-related areas of infrastructure. However, data on other infrastructure networks is limited. Although improvement in this area has been seen specifically in the areas of water & wastewater, there is still limited to no data on locally or privately owned infrastructure components including stormwater, dams, and parks. - **Fully fund infrastructure projects as needed to eliminate backlog and/or deferred maintenance so agencies are better able to address aging systems in the future.** Although strides have been made across the state to eliminate work backlog and reduce local matches for some projects, there are still areas with large amounts of deferred maintenance. - **Include considerations for population growth and extreme weather events when planning and funding future projects**. TN has seen heavy increases in both population and the incident of extreme weather events in the past few years. For our infrastructure to keep up with these changes, special attention must be paid to these trends when planning and funding for future projects. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Tennessee%20Engineers%20Give%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, State, State Report, Tennessee --- ### [Water Week 2022 Kicks Off](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-week-2022-kicks-off/) **Published:** April 28, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2022*](https://www.waterweek.us/#about-water-week), highlighting the critical importance of water policy. Water sector professionals gathered in person and remotely to advocate for critical water policy initiatives, hear from lawmakers on the current state of water policy, and discuss ongoing challenges. This year marked the first time since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic that Water Week events were held in person, and it comes at an exciting time for water policy. With the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the water sector is seeing a significant investment in clean and drinking water infrastructure. IIJA provided approximately $55 billion to support capitalization projects through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, lead service line replacement projects, and addressing emerging contaminants such as PFAS. Radhika Fox, Assistant Administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Office of Water, in remarks to Water Week participants compared the current moment for water policy to the signing of the Clean Water Act more than 50 years ago, noting “We made a bet on clean water. We made a bet on our nation, and we got to work.” ASCE staff participated in water week events this week, including a [webinar](https://www.waterweek.us/events/) with Biden Administration officials and Members of Congress on Federal action on water quality. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) spoke on the importance of clean water infrastructure, as well as Congressional efforts to address the challenges posed by PFAS and other emerging contaminants to water systems. Congressman David Valadao (R-CA) spoke of the challenges his home state of California and other western states face as drought conditions persist. Undersecretary of Agriculture for Rural Development [Xochitl Torres Small](https://www.rd.usda.gov/about-rd/leadership/under-secretarys/xochitl-torres-small) spoke of the Department of Agriculture’s water development and conservation efforts in rural communities throughout the country. And Navis Bermudez, Deputy Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Water spoke of EPA’s efforts implementing IIJA resources, as well as ongoing efforts to revise the current definition of “Waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. In conjunction with Water Week, the Value of Water Campaign released the results of its seventh annual national poll—[The Value of Water Index](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/Value%20of%20Water%20Poll%202022%E2%80%94Key%20Poll%20Findings.pdf). The poll annually tracks voters’ opinions and concerns around water infrastructure, climate, the environment, and other water issues. This year, the poll also asked questions related to passage and implementation of IIJA. When asked how familiar they were with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law or IIJA that passed last year, only 11 percent said very familiar and 37 percent said somewhat familiar, for a total of 48 percent having some confidence that they knew the bill. Forty-nine percent said they were not familiar with the bill. Once given a factual paragraph about the contents of the bill, focusing on its $55 billion for water infrastructure, 75 percent of respondents approved of the bill, with 48 percent strongly approving. Support cut across all ages, races, genders, and political ideologies, with 95 percent of Democrats, 71 percent of Independents, and 56 percent of Republicans supporting the investments in water. Notably, 65 percent of voters said they would view an elected official who supported water infrastructure investments more favorably. The poll found that voters’ trust in their local water infrastructure has diminished, dropping from 86 percent of voters saying the water infrastructure in their local community is very good or somewhat good in 2016 to 74 percent in 2022. There was a drop in confidence in the nation’s water infrastructure, with 59 percent of voters ranking it as very good or somewhat good in 2016 and only 41 percent saying that today. Simultaneously, the number of voters saying the nation’s water infrastructure was in bad shape increased over the same period, from 34 percent in 2016 to 41 percent in 2022. The Value of Water Campaign educates about how water is essential, invaluable, and in need of investment. Spearheaded by leaders in the water industry, the Value of Water Campaign seeks to build public and political will for investment in America’s water infrastructure. Learn more by visiting the Value of Water Campaign [website](http://thevalueofwater.org/). Read the full results of the Value of Water Index [here](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/Value%20of%20Water%20Poll%202022%E2%80%94Key%20Poll%20Findings.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%2C%20ACEC%20%26%20APWA%20Kick%20off%20Inaugural%20Roadshow%20Event&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Cyber Monday, November 28th, ASCE, the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), and the American Public Works Association (APWA) kicked off their inaugural Engineering & Public Works Roadshow at the Port of Long Beach in California. The roadshow spotlights the meaningful and transformational work of engineers and public works professionals. ![port of long beach event](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Tom-POLB-2-266x400.jpg "Tom POLB 2")Tom Smith ASCE Executive DirectorThe inaugural event was held at the Port of Long Beach (POLB), a site that has received awards from both ASCE and ACEC for its sustainable practices, efficient operations, and critical role in the regional and national economies and supply chain. The POLB also overlooks the newly constructed International Gateway Bridge, another award-winning project whose size allowed for larger vessels to pass through while keeping traffic moving, improving the national supply chain. Tom Smith, ASCE Executive Director, Linda Darr, President and CEO of ACEC, and Scott Grayson, CEO of APWA, all provided remarks at the event. They were joined by Sharon Weissman and Rick Cameron of the POLB, in addition to Andrew Rogers, Chief Counsel of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA); Rep. Lou Correa, California’s 46th Congressional District; and Gloria Roberts, District 7 Director of Caltrans. The three organizations’ leaders and elected representatives underscored the importance of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The BIL is providing more than $500 billion in new spending on infrastructure projects across the country over the next five years and has a chance to transform communities and reinvigorate the U.S. economy. POLB and the International Gateway Bridge serve as reminders of why these investments are so important and the impact they can have on local communities. The BIL is expected to add more than 82,000 full-and part-time jobs in engineering, public works, and design services over the next five years. However, these industries are facing labor backlogs that could hinder the full potential of the BIL, as it is up to engineers and public works professionals to build these game-changing projects. The Biden Administration has made filling these jobs a nationwide priority. Over the summer, the administration announced the “Talent Pipeline Challenge” campaign, which is meant to amplify the benefits of a career in engineering or public works to students and future employees by showcasing the dynamic projects engineering and public works professionals design across the country. Students have shown that they value careers that improve society and the projects made possible by the BIL will do just that. This inaugural roadshow event highlighted what is possible when a skilled and dedicated workforce applies its expertise to projects that solve modern day problems. 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Civil Engineers Give the District's Infrastructure a "C" Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/washington-d-c-civil-engineers-give-the-districts-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** June 23, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, the National Capital Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released its 2021 Report Card for D.C.’s Infrastructure, the Section’s first report since 2016. D.C. civil engineers gave eight categories of infrastructure an overall grade of “C”, an improvement from the “C-“ grade given in the 2016 report and a slight upgrade over the national grade of “C-“ issued in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Graded categories included bridges (B-), drinking water (C+), energy (C+), levees (D), rail (B), roads (D+), transit (D) and wastewater (B-). “The capital’s infrastructure systems are getting closer to where we want them to be” said Ranjit Sahai, P.E., ASCE’s D.C. Report Card Committee Chair. “We have seen encouraging trends since the 2016 report was issued when the grade was a ‘C-‘, but D.C. must continue to explore all solutions to improve the grades if we are to accommodate a growing population and economy in the future.” D.C.’s energy (C+) and wastewater (B-) infrastructure have seen significant investment and innovative practices in recent years. D.C. has provided incentives to encourage more generation in the city from rooftop solar resources. The D.C. energy sector also landed the Power Line Undergrounding (PLUG) project in 2012, a multi-year initiative to bury distribution lines to protect them from storms. This ongoing $500 million project between the city and Pepco will increase resilience by 95%. The District’s Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant serve more than 2 million people between D.C. and the surrounding areas through nearly 2,000 miles of pipes. Blue Plains has the capacity to treat more than 380 million gallons of wastewater per day, and treated an average of 292 million gallons of wastewater per day in 2020. Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) caused by excess stormwater causes the sewage to mix into local waterways. To combat this, D.C.’s landmark Clean Rivers Project was put in place to capture the combined sewage. To date, the project has captured more than 10 billion gallons of combined sewage and 4,500 tons of trash, diverting them from the river to instead be treated. A new enhanced clarification facility can treat 225 million gallons of flow during wet weather events. However, there is still work to be done. The capital’s population and businesses are growing, with estimates showing a growth in population from 672,200 in 2015 to 987,200 in 2045. This will put strain on all levels of infrastructure, but especially the surface transportation network. D.C.’s bridges (B-) and rail lines (B) are ready for extra users and freight movement. Only eight of D.C.’s 243 bridges – or 3.3% – are considered structurally deficient, much lower than the national average of 7.5%, although the average age of the city’s bridges is 62 years, much higher than the national average of 44 years. The freight rail network received a major boost with the completion of two double-stack-capable tracks through the Virginia Avenue Tunnel, which opens the door for more efficient shipments of goods. Less fortunately, roads (D+) and transit (D) still need work to meet the needs of a growing population. The average D.C. commute is 43 minutes, the third highest rate in the nation and far greater than the national average of 27 minutes. Pedestrian deaths are also on the rise, indicating that D.C. must find ways to improve safety measures. Road conditions have improved, with less than 10% considered in poor condition. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA or Metro) and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) provide transit services in the region, but face aging infrastructure and steadily declining ridership, along with a $6.6 billion investment backlog. Metro requires an additional $1.8 billion investment to reach a state of good repair to simply comply with Federal Transit Administration, National Transportation Safety Board, and other safety and security directives. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, such as: - KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND LOOK AHEAD . Grades are improving for sectors that procure and generate sufficient funding, perform timely expansion or rehabilitation efforts, and invest in innovative and resilient approaches. - EDUCATE THE PUBLIC ON TRUE COST OF INFRASTRUCTURE . Many infrastructure owners adequately determine their own needs and set user fees, but a sustained educational effort should be made to inform users of fee changes. The public’s willingness to finance new or upgraded infrastructure through fee changes is critical, especially when significant investment is needed. - MAKE THE INVESTMENT . Asset management should drive smart infrastructure investments that are consistently and strategically based on long-term planning and prioritization. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Washington%2C%20D.C.%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20District%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** District of Columbia, National Category, State, State Report **Tags:** clean energy, innovation, PLUG, wastewater treatment --- ### [New PROTECT program offers millions for improving infrastructure resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-protect-program-offers-millions-for-improving-infrastructure-resilience/) **Published:** May 4, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20PROTECT%20program%20offers%20millions%20for%20improving%20infrastructure%20resilience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Government agencies—from state departments of transportation to Indian Tribes—can now apply for some of the $848 million in discretionary grant funding that was recently [made available](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/biden-harris-administration-opens-applications-848-million-competitive-grant-funding) through the new [Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/protect/discretionary/), which aims to make infrastructure more resilient to climate change. The PROTECT program was one of several initiatives created by the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684/) (IIJA), which ASCE strongly supported. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) opened the [Notice of Funding Opportunity](https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=347585) (NOFO) for Fiscal Years 2022 and 2023 on April 21st. State and local government agencies are eligible to apply for the grants, which support transportation projects that improve infrastructure resilience to extreme weather events such as wildfires, flooding, and extreme heat. The program extends to various sectors of infrastructure, such as highways, transit systems, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, intercity passenger rail, and ports. ASCE [supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps500---resilient-infrastructure-initiatives) initiatives such as the PROTECT program that increase the resilience of infrastructure against man-made and natural hazards through education, research, planning, construction, operation, and maintenance. In fact, ASCE identified the need for further advancements in resilience as a key solution to raise the grades in the [2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/resilience/). By advancing initiatives like the PROTECT program, which incorporate system resiliency into the decision-making process, we can prioritize projects that can help maintain a state of good repair for all infrastructure at the lowest life-cycle cost. Additionally, more resilient infrastructure can also minimize the cost associated with rebuilding after a major event. Furthermore, ASCE believes one of the most reliable ways to ensure our nation’s infrastructure is resilient is the widespread adoption and enforcement of modern, up-to-date building codes and standards. ASCE engages in standards setting on a large scale. ASCE standards provide technical guidelines for promoting safety, reliability, productivity, and efficiency in civil engineering. Accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), ASCE has a rigorous and formal process overseen by the Codes and Standards Committee (CSC). Standards are created or updated by a balanced, volunteer standards committee, followed by a public review period. ASCE’s work related to codes and standards can directly help with resilience, which is a priority area for the Department of Transportation (DOT). The use of the most up-to-date codes and standards can also help projects meet the PROTECT grant selection criteria, which include ensuring a project addresses risks from current or future weather events and reducing long-term infrastructure costs. ASCE has several documents that offer a sound basis for designing structures that can reasonably withstand the ever-increasing impacts of climate change and can guide the FHWA when designing new structures. These include: - ASCE 7, Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE/SEI 7-16), currently an integral part of U.S. building codes, describes the means for determining soil, flood, tsunami, snow, rain, atmospheric ice, earthquake, and wind loads, and their combinations for resilient structural design; - ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, prescribes a standard for cost effectively increasing resiliency by reducing and eliminating risks to property from flood hazards and their effects; - ASCE 41, Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings, standardizes methods for the retrofit of existing buildings to increase resiliency in communities after a seismic event; and - ASCE Manual of Practice 140, Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adaptive Design and Risk Management, provides guidance for and contributes to infrastructure analysis/design in a world in which risk profiles are changing due to climate change per the Fourth National Climate Assessment. Additionally, ASCE publishes manuals of practice, peer-reviewed papers, and a myriad of technical resources that communities and owners can use to ensure their infrastructure is designed and built to withstand natural hazards such as earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. Making communities more resilient and combatting the impacts of climate change have emerged as leading priorities for the Biden Administration. In addition to the PROTECT program, the administration has launched the [Carbon Reduction Program](https://highways.dot.gov/newsroom/president-biden-usdot-announce-new-guidance-and-64-billion-help-states-reduce-carbon) to help states cut emissions and the [National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/nevi/) to build a national electric vehicle (EV) charging network. FHWA is accepting applications for PROTECT program grants through August 18th. The agency is planning on holding webinars [May 8th](https://usdot.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_wpq8qcrVQz67DqdjPCar1A) and [May 11th](https://usdot.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_nvoQgZCFTwCWdS_FYTH5kg) to offer more information on the program and how to apply for a grant. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20PROTECT%20program%20offers%20millions%20for%20improving%20infrastructure%20resilience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [GAO Reports Highlights Opportunities For The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gao-reports-highlights-opportunities-for-the-national-earthquake-hazards-reduction-program/) **Published:** May 11, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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(NEHRP). The report includes a number of recommendations focusing on the need for NEHRP to conduct a national assessment to identify progress and remaining gaps in earthquake resilience; develop strategies to better communicate research priorities; and follow leading practices to identify and leverage resources. Entitled, [Earthquakes: Opportunities Exist to Further Assess Risk, Build Resilience, and Communicate Research.](https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-105016) In the most recent NEHRP [reauthorization](https://nehrp.gov/pdf/NEHRP%202018%20Reauthorization%20-%20ACEHR%20April%202019%20-%20Color.pdf), Congress directed GAO to conduct this study. NEHRP was created in response to the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977 which recognized the threat earthquakes pose and the enormous cost associated with them. NEHRP has provided the resources and leadership that have led to significant advances in understanding the risk earthquakes pose and the best ways to mitigate them. Through NEHRP, the federal government has engaged in seismic monitoring, mapping, research, testing, and engineering This work supports code development and advances mitigation techniques and emergency preparedness. Although NEHRP is well known for its research programs, it is also the source of hundreds of innovative technologies, maps, design techniques, and standards that are used by design professionals every day to mitigate hazards and risks. NEHRP is a cost-effective and well-run program that has successfully reduced the risk of earthquakes through the cohesive efforts of four federal agencies: the National Science Foundation (NSF), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). ASCE has been actively involved with NEHRP since its creation. ASCE members regularly serve on the Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazards Reduction (ACEHR) as well as working directly for the member agencies. Other ASCE members are actively engaged in seismic grant-based research. Additionally, ASCE is a leader of the NEHRP Coalition which actively supports the program on Capitol Hill. ASCE was instrumental in the 2004 reorganization of the program, as well as most recent reauthorization in 2018. The NEHRP program also feeds into ASCE standards, such as [ASCE-7](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/asce7) and other seismic standards. ASCE subject experts were also consulted by GAO in the compilation of this report. In its conclusions, GAO found that NEHRP has goals outlined in its most recent Strategic Plan for the improvement of earthquake resilience in communities nationwide. However, officials from NIST said that a national risk assessment has not been done to identify improvements and remaining gaps in resilience. FEMA initiated some efforts to identify improvements by collecting data on the adoption of building codes. The NEHRP agencies are currently working to update the Strategic Plan for FY 2022-2029. By conducting a national risk assessment, NEHRP would gain greater awareness of earthquake resilience improvements and be better positioned in planning long-term goals and objectives toward closing remaining gaps. In their responses, the four NEHRP agencies concurred with GAO’s findings and recommendations. All pledged to work to incorporate in to their ongoing programs. 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Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-computer-system-outage-demonstrates-need-for-robust-aviation-investment/) **Published:** January 18, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=FAA%20Computer%20System%20Outage%20Demonstrates%20Need%20for%20Robust%20Aviation%20Investment&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F01%2Fijia-aviation.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=FAA%20Computer%20System%20Outage%20Demonstrates%20Need%20for%20Robust%20Aviation%20Investment "Share on 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investment in the nation’s aviation infrastructure. The temporary outage of the [Notice to Air Missions](https://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/notam/what_is_a_notam) (NOTAM) system, which gives pilots safety information about flight conditions, resulted in the delay or cancelation of thousands of flights. While the FAA is still conducting a review to determine the precise cause of the failure, the importance of reliable and efficient aviation systems is clear. Aviation infrastructure will be at the forefront of ASCE’s legislative priorities this year as the Society ramps up advocacy efforts for the FAA reauthorization bill. Part of ASCE’s advocacy work involves active participation in the [Beyond the Runway Coalition](https://airportscouncil.org/advocacy/beyondtherunway/), which includes a variety of industry representatives who support modernizing airport infrastructure financing to ensure airports have the resources they need to serve as strong economic engines. Our work with this coalition includes regular meetings, which will likely increase in frequency as Congress takes up FAA reauthorization legislation. ASCE strongly supports the timely reauthorization of FAA programs, which are vital for the safety and efficiency of the nation’s aviation system. ASCE urges Congress to reauthorize FAA programs through robust, multi-year legislation before they expire on September 30, 2023. Long before the FAA’s disruptive computer failure, ASCE has been advocating for greater investment in aviation infrastructure, which received a D+ on ASCE’s [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/). Under pre-COVID-19 projections, our aviation system was set to have a 10-year, $111 billion funding shortfall. That gap has likely grown significantly as passenger volumes dropped in March 2020 and continue to climb back to pre-pandemic levels. Technological advancements are another factor that can play a critical role in improving airport service flexibility and efficiency. The FAA’s recent outage demonstrates the need for modernized and reliable technological systems. ASCE recognizes the need to balance infrastructure investment, enhanced safety measures, and technology improvements, both in investment and long-term planning. FAA continues to roll out its massive [Next Generation Air Transportation System](https://www.faa.gov/nextgen) (NextGen) infrastructure program, which is designed to improve air travel safety, efficiency, and predictability. NextGen involves the transition from a radar-based system to a satellite-based system, replacing radio communications with data exchange and automation. One of ASCE’s Report Card recommendations is to support innovative technology such as NextGen, which offers the ability to reduce congestion and improve capacity. The nation can’t afford to keep waiting to invest in aviation infrastructure. ASCE’s [*Failure to Act*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resources/failure-to-act-economic-reports/) economic report found that airport congestion will cost U.S. industries and households approximately $28 billion in 2029 and $41 billion in 2039. Declining airport infrastructure affects the country’s ability to move people to their destinations and goods to market, negatively impacting the country’s ability to compete in a global economy and driving up costs to consumers. As the 118th Congress gets underway and ASCE increases its advocacy efforts pertaining to aviation, please stay tuned for updates from ASCE’s Government Relations team. 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The report includes five infrastructure categories receiving an overall grade of ‘C’ — meaning Wyoming’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition. Civil engineers graded Wyoming’s aviation (B-), bridges (C-), drinking water (C), roads (C), and wastewater (D+). ## Wyoming Report Card Shows Infrastructure Requires Local Funding While Wyoming’s infrastructure rates are slightly higher than the national grade of ‘C-‘ assigned in the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/zA07CNk5xysZKkgAc7vE8R?domain=u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net), low funding levels and harsh environmental conditions pose a significant threat. The Wyoming report card also details how temporary funding from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), passed in November 2021, benefits the state. However, continued state investment is needed to ensure the long-term success of the critical infrastructure systems that people in Wyoming depend on daily. More than $2.3 billion in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been awarded for projects in Wyoming. Wastewater systems received the lowest grade on Wyoming’s report card. Many of the publicly owned wastewater systems have not been upgraded since the 1960s and 1970s, and they will soon need replacement or rehabilitation. Local funding for wastewater systems is also limited by low user fees and limitations on how much debt cities can incur to fund wastewater treatment projects. “The first ever Infrastructure Report Card for Wyoming provides a look at the challenges leaders across the state have maintaining crucial infrastructure services in Wyoming’s unique environment. Roads, bridges, airports, and water systems help drive Wyoming’s economy. When these systems are in good shape, everyone benefits.” — Dustin Woods, P.E., co-chair, 2023 Report Card for Wyoming’s Infrastructure ## 3 Solutions for Upgrading Wyoming’s Infrastructure The report card also includes calls to action to raise the grades, which include: - **Increase rates and fees, charge for usage, and monitor equity impacts:** Wyoming’s drinking water and wastewater systems currently spend more on essential costs than they collect in revenue from users in all systems. That must change to provide safe water infrastructure. Increased asset management tracking and capital project planning would highlight even more significant needs. To ensure consistent service, Wyoming needs to increase elected boards’ and councils’ awareness and education of utility management, tying infrastructure projects to board/council training. Wyoming needs to increase water rates, install and charge for usage rates, and proactively support residents or businesses for whom higher rates create unreasonable burdens. In addition, Wyoming systems must address water usage and look to future technology and equipment to reduce energy costs and water usage. - **Calculate future needs incorporating harsh environments and topography:** Corrosive soil conditions degrading water pipes make more frequent replacements necessary. Drought conditions persisting decades and high plains with unforgiving remoteness call for more resilient systems. - **Capitalize on recent federal infrastructure investments:** More than most states, Wyoming already understands the importance of federal investments. Infrastructure owners should capitalize on the historic, short-lived opportunities for extra help from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. #### **To view the Wyoming report card and all five categories, visit** [**https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wyoming/**](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/9mTjCPN51Ac0YzLOcPmXEB?domain=u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net)**.** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=2023%20ASCE%20Wyoming%20Report%20Card%3A%20Infrastructure%20Mediocre%2C%20Say%20Engineers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, State Report, Wyoming **Tags:** 2023 wyoming report card, infrastructure, wyoming infrastructure, wyoming infrastructure grade, wyoming report card --- ### [White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council Releases Recommendations](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/white-house-environmental-justice-advisory-council-releases-recommendations/) **Published:** May 19, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=White%20House%20Environmental%20Justice%20Advisory%20Council%20Releases%20Recommendations&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=White%20House%20Environmental%20Justice%20Advisory%20Council%20Releases%20Recommendations "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=White%20House%20Environmental%20Justice%20Advisory%20Council%20Releases%20Recommendations&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council released [final interim recommendations and guidelines](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2021-05/documents/whejac_interim_final_recommendations_0.pdf) for implementing President Biden’s environmental justice goals. The recommendations said initiatives such as renewable energy, clean water programs, and green housing could all quality as federal benefits for “vulnerable communities.” The council is made up of leaders in the environmental justice movement and are meant to advise the Biden Administration, but these recommendations don’t necessarily reflect the Administration’s policy. For example, the recommendations oppose some measures backed by the Biden Administration, such as carbon capture and nuclear power. In particular, the recommendation includes establishing a grant program that incentivizes community solar projects in cities and rural communities with discounts for low-income households, as well as the installation of energy efficiency upgrades to homes and buildings that would lower the cost of electricity to most individuals in low-income communities. These projects would be funded through the creation of a green bank so that low-interest loans can cover the full costs upfront. It also recommends investments in community resilience projects, including nature-based solutions such as green roofs for the mitigation of extreme heat and clean water infrastructure. [ASCE supports](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-563-renewable-energy-policy/) policies that promote the use of energy sources and generation methods that allow for equity, affordability, and access by all members of the community and lessen the burden of energy production and distribution on environmental justice communities. The report also includes many recommendations for the advancement of clean water infrastructure, including the retrofit of lead water pipe infrastructure, infusing $100 billion into the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF and DWSRF) programs, the institutionalization of water and wastewater affordability programs, and developing a robust and public transparent national database to locate lead testing data for schools, cities, and states. In a [recent letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Interior-Environment-FY22-Request_FINAL.pdf) to Congressional appropriators, ASCE asked Congress to triple the amount of funding to both the CWSRF and DWSRF programs, and we [endorsed](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/ASCE-Letter-of-Support_HR-1915_5.4.21.pdf) H.R. 1915, the [Water Quality Protection & Job Creation Act of 2021](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/issue/water-quality-protection-and-job-creation-act-of-2021), which reauthorizes the CWSRF at $40 billion over five years. ASCE has also endorsed the Low Income Household Drinking Water and Wastewater Emergency Assistance Program, which was created in the Fiscal Year 2021 omnibus and funded at $638 million. In ASCE’s [public comments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-submits-public-comments-to-epas-proposed-lead-and-copper-rule/) to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last year regarding the proposed Lead & Copper rule, we supported the provision that requires a publicly available lead service line inventory. Transit also received special attention in the report. It is recommended that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) direct transit hub invest to foster economic and small business development in commercial corridors, transition to renewable energy fleets, and expand access in low-income communities. ASCE [supports](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/authorization-of-the-nation-s-surface-transportation-program--a-blueprint-for-success/) efforts to improve our [transit network](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-494---public-transportation/), [reduce greenhouse gas emissions](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-488---greenhouse-gases/), and foster economic growth. Finally, the recommendations include supporting the funding of frontline and environmental justice communities to organize, convene, and develop climate actions plans that address climate resilience, communication, and prioritize potential climate impacts. [ASCE supports](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-360---impact-of-climate-change/) government policies that encourage anticipation of and preparation for impacts of climate change on the built environment. In response to these recommendations, the chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, Brenda Mallory, said that she looks forward to “reviewing these recommendations and to working with my colleagues across the federal government and with Congress to follow through on the President’s commitments to address long-standing environmental injustices.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, green infrastructure, lead and copper rule, transit, wastewater --- ### [Water Sector Celebrates Water Week 2023](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-sector-celebrates-water-week-2023/) **Published:** April 27, 2023 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Washington, DC. Professionals from the nation’s water utilities, advocacy groups, environmental organizations, and other key stakeholders gathered near Capitol Hill to hear from decision makers on the current state of water policy. This year, ASCE was proud to join 31 other organizations as an official [Water Week 2023 Partner](https://www.waterweek.us/#partners), supporting Water Week’s goal of “ensuring all communities continue to have access to safe, reliable, and affordable drinking water and clean water.” Water sector stakeholders heard directly from agency officials and lawmakers on current water policy priorities and ongoing challenges to water infrastructure development and water safety. On Tuesday, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox spoke about continued implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which provided more than $50 billion for drinking water and clean water infrastructure. She also spoke of EPA’s continued efforts to address per- and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS), which include a [recently proposed standard](https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas) limiting PFAS levels in drinking water. Fox further discussed EPA’s commitment to hold polluters accountable for PFAS contamination using the agency’s enforcement authority. Finally, Assistant Administrator Fox spoke about the Biden Administration’s [Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/01/18/2022-28595/revised-definition-of-waters-of-the-united-states), which was largely crafted by EPA and has faced ongoing challenges. On April 12th, a federal court [blocked implementation of the rule](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/environment-and-energy/bidens-waters-rule-blocked-in-24-more-states-by-federal-judge) in 24 states, in addition to a previous injunction against the rule in Texas and Idaho. The court ruled that the rule “posed a threat to \[the states’\] sovereign rights”, leaving the rule effective in less than half of the country. In addition, [Congress recently passed a resolution](https://www.eenews.net/articles/senate-votes-to-overturn-biden-water-rule/) which would officially rescind the rule, but that resolution was vetoed by President Joe Biden. Fox expressed her belief that the WOTUS rule, which determines waters that are subject to regulation under the Clean Water Act, is fundamental to EPA’s efforts in the water sphere and that the 2023 rule was crafted to be clear, durable, and balanced. She stated her belief that if the rule were to be dismantled, it would place a significant burden on water utilities to address water pollution concerns. Stakeholders also heard from other officials with EPA’s Office of Water, as well as other federal agencies. Andrew Sawyers, Director of EPA’s Office of Wastewater Management outlined his office’s commitment to resilient and durable solutions to wastewater challenges, and ways in which EPA is working with communities to provide technical assistance and helping them to access project financing. Jennifer McClain, Director of EPA’s Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water, discussed her view that the infrastructure law provided an opportunity through flexible financing to improve resiliency and water safety in a creative manner. She also discussed ongoing development of the agency’s revisions to the [Lead and Copper Rule](https://www.epa.gov/dwreginfo/lead-and-copper-rule), which will address challenges such as lead service line replacement in a proactive and equitable manner, and will provide clear regulation. And Shannon Zaret with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of State and Community Energy Programs highlighted wastewater technical assistance activities at DOE which support equipment upgrades, and help communities identify potential savings to reduce financial burdens. On Wednesday, lawmakers spoke with Water Week attendees about ongoing water policy efforts and priorities in Congress. This included Representative David Rouzer (R-NC), Chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources and the Environment. Chairman Rouzer noted his desire to make oversight of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law a priority for his subcommittee. He also expressed his commitment to keeping the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)- which falls under the subcommittee’s jurisdiction- on its current biennial schedule to ensure that water resources projects continue to move forward, as well as the subcommittee’s future efforts to pursue project permitting reform. As the 118th Congress continues to move forward, and EPA and other agencies continue implementation of water investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and other Biden Administration water policy priorities, we encourage you to follow updates form ASCE’s Government Relations team. We will continue to highlight funding opportunities, key legislation, and agency rule making and provide further insights on the issues surrounding water policy. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Sector%20Celebrates%20Water%20Week%202023&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, National Category, Uncategorized, Wastewater --- ### [Pennsylvania Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a “C-” Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/pennsylvania-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** November 15, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Pennsylvania%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, November 15th, the Pennsylvania section of ASCE unveiled its *2022 Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure*. Pennsylvania earned a ‘C-‘ grade in the 2022 report, the same grade it received in 2018. That grade means Pennsylvania’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. The 2022 report card included 15 categories of infrastructure, which include aviation (B-), bridges (D+), dams (C), drinking water (D), energy (C), hazardous waste (B-), levees (C), parks (C+), ports (C+), rail (C), roads (C-), solid waste (C+), stormwater (D), transit (D), and wastewater (D-). A group of volunteer Civil Engineers from across Pennsylvania spent more than a year producing the report, to inform the public and lawmakers about the state of infrastructure in the commonwealth, and why funding investments in infrastructure is crucial for the safety and financial future of everyone in Pennsylvania. ![Man at a podium giving a talk in a bright, windowed room with ASCE banner to the left and a green poster on a stand to the right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/20221115_122021-400x306.jpg "20221115_122021")Report Card Chair David DiGioia revealing findings at the Pittsburgh release eventRelease events were held in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Bethlehem, with local engineers talking about the specific infrastructure needs in their parts of the state. In Pittsburgh, the report was released at the Energy Innovation Center. The Harrisburg event was held at the Keystone building near the state capitol. The Lehigh Valley event was at the Fritz Engineering Laboratory at Lehigh University, which is a civil engineering landmark structure that has been operating since 1909. At each release event, the engineers who wrote the report card highlighted the benefits the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is bringing to Pennsylvania in the year since it was signed into law. However, the funding from the infrastructure law is just a down payment on what is needed to pay for overdue repairs and improvements that will benefit communities for generations. There are three key takeaways from the report card. They include Pennsylvania’s robust freight network, including airports, freight rail, ports, and roads supporting the supply chain in the northeast and across the country. While there have been significant investments in some parts of this network, others are falling behind even with the boost from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Engineers also found the state’s aging water infrastructure threatens public health and are a drain on taxpayer dollars, literally and figuratively. Upgrades and financial investments are needed to stop the risk of emerging contaminants and a series of water leaks in systems across the Keystone state. Finally, increasing severe weather and consumer needs are straining every part of Pennsylvania’s infrastructure. Roads remain clogged, and mass transit and bike alternatives are underfunded to be a feasible option for many. All sectors of the built environment are in need of modernization to prepare for a future with more volatile temperature shifts and Pennsylvanians demanding low-carbon transportation. The next step for Pennsylvania’s civil engineers is advocacy and education. With Pennsylvania electing a new governor and legislature, they are now preparing to meet with leaders from across the state to demonstrate the importance of funding infrastructure investments at all levels of government. You can find more information and the full report at <http://infrastructurereportcard.org/pennsylvania> [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Pennsylvania%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20Grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F11%2FASCE-PA-ReportCard-Graphic.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Pennsylvania%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20Grade "Share on 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infrastructure, Pennsylvania --- ### [New data tool on road safety helps implement bipartisan infrastructure law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-data-tool-road-safety-best-bipartian-infrastructure-law/) **Published:** November 18, 2022 **Author:** Guest Author **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20data%20tool%20on%20road%20safety%20helps%20implement%20bipartisan%20infrastructure%20law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*by Heather Ducharme, Director of Future Digital Business Products, GM* *by Harnit Anand, Head of Strategy and Business Development – Smart Cities, GM* This past year, public and private sector leaders joined forces to address a common challenge facing Americans: the need to improve infrastructure and roadway safety across the country. Progress has been made in recent months: the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [reported in September](https://www.stamfordadvocate.com/business/article/NHTSA-calls-rising-US-roadway-deaths-a-crisis-17451457.php) that U.S. roadway fatalities are declining for the first time since 2020. However, this positive trend must catalyze more action – not less – to maintain momentum and further improve safety as communities emerge from the pandemic and leaders strive to accomplish Vision Zero goals. Today, infrastructure leaders are taking action with an all-hands-in-approach for innovating solutions and creating safer roads. At General Motors, our team is advancing our commitment to roadway and community safety through key products by [GM Future Roads](https://futureroads.gm.com/site/us/en/gm-future-roads/home.html), which aim to leverage GM’s network of connected vehicles to help government agencies make better-informed infrastructure and roadway safety decisions. GM has about 15 million connected vehicles in the United States and Canada with sensors that offer actionable insights into roadway issues. [**Safety View**](https://futureroads.gm.com/site/us/en/gm-future-roads/home/news/safety-view-available-to-support-safer-roads.html) by GM Future Roads & INRIX is GM Future Road’s leading product. Additionally, GM Future Roads is working on a new product that offers pothole detection. Co-developed with [INRIX](https://inrix.com/resources/on-demand-webinar-introducing-safety-view-by-inrix-and-gm-future-roads/), a leading provider of transportation data and analytics, the Safety View cloud-based tool is one of the few offerings that provides crash, vehicle, vulnerable road user (VRU), and U.S. Census datasets and analytical tools in one place. Safety View, designed for [Vision Zero](https://visionzeronetwork.org/about/what-is-vision-zero/) and other road safety programs, provides actionable data insights that can help inform both planning and operations activities. What are the collision patterns in speeding hotspots? Where do you have the highest concentration of vulnerable road uses? Where might you target safety training for “buckle up for safety” campaigns? A holistic data-driven approach can help transportation officials tackle these types of key questions and gain a deeper understanding of where to prioritize efforts. [ASCE’s Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) further underscores the need to prioritize strategic investments to improve and preserve safety on our roads today, and also pave the way for safe roadways of the future. Today, 43% of U.S. public roadways are in poor condition, according to [ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/)—costing billions in repairs, while slowing the transfer of our nation’s goods and presenting major public safety risks. The role of data analytics cannot be overlooked when it comes to both resource preservation and effectively addressing critical areas of need. Road networks around school zones is one area transportation officials are increasingly placing their focus. The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has designated unprecedented levels of funding toward Safe Routes to School and other safety programs. The efficacy of traffic signs and school zone designations, for instance, could be an invaluable insight for helping municipalities optimize spend and calibrate on road safety efforts in school zones. A recent INRIX school traffic safety [study](https://inrix.com/learn/school-zone-safety-report/), conducted with data analytics available through Safety View, sought to explore this further, answering questions like: Do drivers speed less in school zones? Are crash rates lower on school zone streets? [![GM Future Roads tool shows crash frequency and severity in select road segments.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Future-Roads-Dashboard-1024x395.png "Future Roads Dashboard")](https://futureroads.gm.com/site/us/en/gm-future-roads/home.html) Using Safety View to analyze crash, volume, speed, and demographic data within a quarter mile of 27 schools in Washington, D.C., the study found: - Despite areas being designated as a school zone, driving speeds and crashes remained on the same level as other roadways. - While speeding and crash rates didn’t vary much between school zone and non-school zones, severe injuries and fatalities were less frequent in and around schools. - Speeding is more prevalent in school zones with higher percentages of students on free- or reduced-lunch programs. The analysis also provided a deeper dive into a particular stretch of road in the DC sample, where 55% of vehicles traveled faster than 25 mph between 8–10 a.m. These findings illustrate how data and analytics can provide invaluable insights for transportation planners on where to take action. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law offers a once-in-a-generation funding opportunity for innovative technologies that can help create safer, more efficient, and more equitable communities and roadways. The time has never been more opportune for collaboration between private, public and industry association leaders to drive tech-driven change and create lasting positive impact. 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How Can Engineers Protect the Public?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/national-building-safety-month-how-can-engineers-protect-the-public/) **Published:** May 11, 2023 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")May is National Building Safety Month and the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is doing its part to ensure these structures are safe and reliable, despite omnipresent environmental hazards and increasingly severe weather events. The video above highlights one example where ASCE standards prevented disasters. ASCE has developed building codes and design standards unique to each community’s challenges across the globe. ASCE 7 is the Society’s most widely used professional standard and a critical tool in a civil engineer’s commitment to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public. This tool tells engineer show to design buildings to withstand certain hazards, such as severe winds, seismic activity, flooding, and more. The standard has stood for more than 20 years as the authoritative source for specifications of loads and related criteria used by engineers to design safe, economical, and reliable structures. This standard is updated on a cyclical basis by hundreds of professional civil and structural engineers, researchers, buildings officials, and construction professionals, with the most recent edition being released in late 2021 (*ASCE/SEI 7-22 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criterial for Building and Other Structures*). Communities which adhere to the most stringent ASCE standards have been far more successful avoiding catastrophes than those that choose to forego these standards. For example, in November 2018, Anchorage, Alaska was hit with a magnitude 7.1 earthquake. The areas with updated building codes experienced minimal damages and zero fatalities occurred. Of the 40 structures around Anchorage to experience damages in the 2018 event, only one of them was located within the region that requires use of ASCE 7 standards. While the most stringent codes and standards cannot guarantee full protection against catastrophic events such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or tornadoes, they can improve the likelihood of affected structures remaining stable throughout the event. Learn more about [ASCE 7](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7) here! 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email")](mailto:?subject=National%20Building%20Safety%20Month%20%E2%80%93%20How%20Can%20Engineers%20Protect%20the%20Public%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Broadband, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State --- ### [Movement on School Infrastructure Data Collection](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/movement-on-school-infrastructure-data-collection/) **Published:** May 25, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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statement that school facilities represent the second largest sector of public infrastructure spending, after highways, and yet there is no comprehensive national data on the condition of K-12 public school infrastructure. To develop the ASCE [schools grade of a D+](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools/), engineers instead relied on various third party analysis and a recent report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on specific states. The chapter’s top recommendation is that the U.S. Department of Education should coordinate with state agencies and local school districts to obtain and publish nationwide statistics on school infrastructure at regular intervals. ASCE has advocated for such information collection since the first ASCE report card in 1998. The first step in addressing the state of the nation’s schools is to understand the full scope of current conditions. Lately, there has been some movement to address the concerns raised by ASCE. On May 18th, the House Education and Labor Committee advanced the ASCE supported [Rebuild America Schools Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/604) (H.R 604). The bill would create a need-based grant program for local educational agencies (LEAs) to improve school facilities. Further, the bill specifies allowable uses of grant funds, including carrying out major repairs, improving indoor air quality, and making facilities accessible to disabled individuals. Additionally, the bill includes authorization of a National Clearinghouse on School Infrastructure and Sustainability which would direct the Department, every five years, to carry out a comprehensive study of the physical conditions of all public schools. In addition to the new legislation, the Administration’s Fiscal Year 2023 budget proposal includes a $2 million request to establish the proposed National Clearinghouse on School Infrastructure and Sustainability. Finally, the Department of Education held a listening session on May 23rd with stakeholders, including ASCE, to review the proposal. ASCE expressed its support for the proposed office and emphasized the importance of reliable data to accurately assess the conditions of the nation’s schools. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Join%20ASCE%20for%20Infrastructure%20Week%202023%20%E2%80%93%20%23InfrastructureWorks&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## ASCE Panel: Evolving Needs for the Infrastructure Workforce On May 15th, ASCE will lead a [panel discussion on infrastructure workforce solutions](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evolving-needs-for-the-infrastructure-workforce-tickets-601602317727) with other industry experts. This event correlates with the theme of Infrastructure Week 2023: #InfrastructureWorks. ## About Infrastructure Week [Infrastructure Week](https://www.acceleratoraction.org/events-washington-dc) takes place in Washington, D.C. every May. In fact, for over a decade, industry advocates and practitioners, including ASCE, have organized this week-long series to spotlight the role infrastructure plays in supporting our economy and our quality of life. Key to this year’s focus and discussions is the continued implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Almost $200 billion has already been announced, so you can expect highlights throughout the week of projects and jobs created as a result of federal and state investments. Infrastructure Week is spearheaded by [Accelerator for Action America](https://www.acceleratoraction.org/) – a bipartisan organization – and its [United for Infrastructure program](https://www.acceleratoraction.org/united-for-infrastructure). The program’s Steering Committee, of which ASCE is a part, organizes the event and has traditionally convened decision makers and elected officials to consensus on the need to move our country’s infrastructure forward. **Along with ASCE, other members of the Steering Committee include:** - U.S. Chamber of Commerce - Business Roundtable - Value of Water Campaign - National League of Cities - National Association of Manufacturers - North America’s Building Trades Unions - TTD - Brookings Metro ## More About the ASCE Panel [“Evolving Needs for the Infrastructure Workforce”](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evolving-needs-for-the-infrastructure-workforce-tickets-601602317727) will be broken into two parts: “Recruiting & Retaining Today’s Infrastructure Workforce” and “Growing the Pipeline for the Digital Transformation.” Speakers will first offer immediate solutions to some of the workforce challenges that the infrastructure industry is facing. On the one hand, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided much-needed investment, but on the other hand, both public and private organizations face difficulties with recruiting and retaining the right workers. **Featured speakers include:** - Bill Hanson, Senior Vice President, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock – offshore training courses for dredging and marine professionals - Tom Curtin, Program Director, National Governors Association – findings from the ASCE/NGA workshop on workforce best practices - Michael Connor, Assistant Secretary for the Army, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Moderator – Maria Lehman, President, American Society of Civil Engineers The second panel will offer suggestions on how to grow the pipeline of qualified workers and ensure they’re ready for future technologies and needs. **Featured speakers include:** - Ted Whiton – Executive General Manager, Americas for GHD - Alli Scott, Director for Customer Experience and Industry Advocacy, Autodesk - Rob Puentes, CEO of the Eno Center for Transportation - Moderator – Emily Feenstra, Chief Policy & External Affairs Officer, ASCE “Evolving Needs for the Infrastructure Workforce” will take place on Monday, May 15th, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. It will be held at ASCE’s Washington, D.C. office at 25 Massachusetts Ave 20001. Please visit our registration page to sign up for this panel: [ Sign Up Today!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evolving-needs-for-the-infrastructure-workforce-tickets-601602317727) ## Why Infrastructure Week Is So Important [Infrastructure Week](https://www.acceleratoraction.org/events) is a singular time when diverse interest groups can come together and have formative discussions about important infrastructure issues, ascertain solutions for present challenges, and construct strategies for the future. Infrastructure is often something that is not foremost in people’s minds until they are impacted by a lack of sufficient or reliable services like drinking water or electricity. Sustained investment in infrastructure supports resilient economic growth and connects communities. It directly impacts quality of life, safety, productivity, and the mobility of the nation. To have a week where invested partners, champions, and innovators can meet and tackle the infrastructure issues of the day is imperative for the ongoing health of our families, businesses, and governments. Please, join us for Infrastructure Week 2023. You can view the full agenda here: <https://www.acceleratoraction.org/events-washington-dc>. Be sure to register in advance for ASCE’s panel: [ Register Now!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evolving-needs-for-the-infrastructure-workforce-tickets-601602317727) We hope to see you there! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Hurricane%20Ida%20Wreaks%20Havoc%2C%20but%20Louisiana%E2%80%99s%20Levees%20Hold%20Firm&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Throughout New Orleans, Louisiana, residents are still beset with remnants of Hurricane Katrina 16 years after it made landfall, breaching New Orleans’ levees and ultimately devastating communities, leading to 1,800 deaths. On the 16th anniversary of the tragic storm, the very same region was besieged by Hurricane Ida, which reached winds of 150 miles per hour and knocked out power to more than one million residents and all the city of New Orleans. But thankfully, this time, New Orleans’ levees were up to the challenge, preventing the onslaught of rain from overwhelming the vulnerable coastal city. Within two to-three days, several neighborhoods were receiving running drinking water and wastewater services. Following Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Congress acted to raise New Orleans’ levee barriers from as low as five feet tall to as high as 30 feet. A complete overhaul in the system led to pump stations being built to withstand extreme winds surpassing 200 mph and levees being designed to stand firm even if water surpassed the height of the structures. The state has also prioritized restoring the coastal wetlands, which for decades stood as the lone barrier between the city and major storms. While Ida was significant, the surge still did not amount to the level of threat posed by Hurricane Katrina, so it is too soon to tell how well the levees would hold up in an equal or greater weather event. However, local officials have expressed gratitude for how well the new levee system held up during Ida, a promising sign for the region as severe weather events will surely continue in the Gulf. While prioritization in levees had a major positive impact on the region, New Orleans’ energy grid did not sustain itself through Ida’s powerful winds, resulting in more than 2,000 miles of transmission lines going out of service. The region’s transmission and distribution lines are aging and were already experiencing an above-average number of outages without severe weather and ultimately succumbed to Hurricane Ida’s impact. Crews expect hundreds of thousands of residents to be without power for up to three weeks, even as the region undergoes 90 -to 100-degree Fahrenheit heat. Additionally, dozens of residents have been rushed to the hospital with carbon monoxide poisoning. Infrastructure is an interconnected network of systems which rely upon each other. Flooded roadways and closed bridges prevent crews from tending to damaged transmission and distribution lines to restore power to the region. Without power, drinking water and wastewater facilities are unable to operate. The culmination of these failures results in residents lacking access to air conditioning in extreme heat, clean water, and goods and services as roads and bridges are closed until further notice. The success of New Orleans’ new levee system is certainly a positive story to come out of what could have been a devastating outcome from Hurricane Ida. As of now, the worst has been avoided. The complications stemming from a widespread power outage further stresses the importance of investing in all categories of infrastructure to ensure the entirety of the built environment can withstand severe weather events. ASCE’s Louisiana Section issued a [report card for Louisiana’s infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/louisiana/) in 2017, which offered solutions for safeguarding the state’s systems against severe weather. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Hurricane%20Ida%20Wreaks%20Havoc%2C%20but%20Louisiana%E2%80%99s%20Levees%20Hold%20Firm&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, levees, Louisiana, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #climate, energy, flood protection, flooding, hurricane, levees --- ### [House Committees Move Forward With Reconciliation Legislation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-committees-move-forward-with-reconciliation-legislation/) **Published:** September 16, 2021 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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of writing their proposed $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation package following [passage of a budget resolution in August](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/14/actions). Along with of the $1 trillion [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)](https://www.politico.com/news/2021/08/10/senate-passes-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill-503265), the reconciliation package marks a critical step in President Biden’s “Build Back Better” agenda. Unlike the bipartisan IIJA, however, debate over reconciliation has fallen largely along party lines. The Natural Resources Committee, Science, Space and Technology, and Education and Labor Committees completed their markups last week, while the Transportation and Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, and Ways and Means Committees completed their work this week. The work done by these six committees produced several key policy provisions which will be of particular importance to ASCE and the civil engineering field. These provisions include: [**Transportation and Infrastructure**](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/after-15-hour-markup-committee-advances-legislation-to-invest-in-more-equitable-and-sustainable-transportation-systems-and-infrastructure) - $4 billion for surface transportation projects that reduce greenhouse emissions. This includes $50 million for the Federal Highway Administration to establish a greenhouse gas performance measure, $950 million for grants to incentivize states to move toward reducing emissions or achieving net-zero surface transportation emissions by 2050. - $500 million for FEMA hazard mitigation revolving loan fund programs. These programs were authorized under the Safeguarding Tomorrow Through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act to offer low interest loans for communities to implement pre-disaster mitigation projects and strengthen infrastructure in the face of increasingly severe weather events. Passage of the STORM Act was [a top priority for ASCE in 2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-legislative-victory-storm-act-signed-into-law/). - $2 billion for sewer overflow and stormwater reuse projects. This provision also provides greater assistance to low-income communities by increasing the federal cost share for projects in these communities. - $2.5 billion for port infrastructure grants to reduce port congestion, support offshore wind development, enhance supply chain resilience, and reduce the environmental footprint of the nation’s ports. [**Natural Resources**](https://naturalresources.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-approves-256-billion-reconciliation-measure-to-fund-climate-corps-coastal-protection-wildfire-management-tribal-and-territorial-needs) - $225 million for climate resilience and restoration. It also provides $1billion for tribal climate resilience and adaptation programs. - $900 million for wildfire management. These funds will allow the Bureau of Land Management to implement fire risk mitigation and preparedness programs, conduct research, and improve fire facilities. The committee also provided $100 million for tribal wildfire management. - $100 million to fund mitigation activities for weather events brought on by climate change. These funds will allow the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make improvements to public lands to increase the resiliency of habitats and infrastructure to stand up to increasingly severe changes in weather and reduce the damage they cause. [**Energy and Commerce**](https://energycommerce.house.gov/sites/democrats.energycommerce.house.gov/files/documents/Updated%20Fact%20Sheet%20on%20E%26C%20Build%20Back%20Better%20Key%20Provisions.pdf) **($456 billion)** - $30 billion for lead service line replacement projects. The committee also specifies that these funds can not be used for partial replacement of service lines, nor may they be used leverage for issuing bonds. - $150 billion to establish Clean Electricity Performance Program (CEPP). This program will provide grants to energy suppliers based on the amount of clean energy provided to customers. - $13.5 billion for electric vehicle infrastructure. These funds will support the development of vehicle charging networks, and support states in developing clean transportation plans. - $9 billion for development of a $21st Century energy grid. These funds will support grants for transmission projects, construction and modernizing of grid infrastructure, and offshore wind projects. [**Science, Space, and Technology**](https://science.house.gov/markups/full-committee-markup-of-committee-print-to-comply-with-the-reconciliation-directive-included-in-section-2002-of-the-concurrent-resolution-on-the-budget-for-fiscal-year-2022-s-con-res-14) - $11 billion for the National Science Foundation (NSF). - $4.2 billion for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - $4.4 billion for the National Aerospace and Space Administration (NASA), with $4 billion set aside for NASA infrastructure improvements, and $388 million for climate change projects. - $12.7 billion for the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, with funds being focused on renewable energy research and projects. - $4.2 billion for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), with funds going towards new equipment and climate change research. [**Ways and Means**](https://waysandmeans.house.gov/sites/democrats.waysandmeans.house.gov/files/documents/Section%20by%20Section%20Subtitle%20F%2C%20G%2C%20H%2C%20%26%20J.pdf) - Puts in place new tolls for infrastructure bond financing to incentivize project investments. These include restoring tax-free status to advance refunding bonds allowing state and local governments to refinance debts at lower interest rates. Additionally, private activity bonds used to finance water and sewage projects would be exempt form annual issuance caps. - Strengthens incentives for clean energy technology investments by extending the production and investment tax credits for most facilities, including wind and solar. [**Education and Labor**](https://edlabor.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-votes-to-advance-transformative-investments-in-build-back-better-act) - $111 billion for higher education programs, which includes providing two years of tuition-free community college, increasing the value of Pell Grants, grant programs to train new teachers, and targeted investments in Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and other minority serving institutions. - $82 billion for public school infrastructure projects. The House has largely completed its work writing its reconciliation package, however the Senate has yet to schedule its committee markups. While House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) has [pledged to bring IIJA to the floor for a final vote by September 27](https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/82421), timing for consideration of a final reconciliation package remains fluid. 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How to Become an Infrastructure Grassroots Champion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/whats-a-key-alert-how-to-become-an-infrastructure-grassroots-champion/) **Published:** June 29, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F06%2Fslideout-ASCE-aviations2-768x895-1-343x400.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F06%2Fslideout-ASCE-aviations2-768x895-1-343x400.jpg&description=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Help%20%E2%80%93%20What%E2%80%99s%20a%20Key%20Alert%3F%20How%20to%20Become%20an%20Infrastructure%20Grassroots%20Champion&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")![Airplane taking off over a tall airport control tower at sunset with a blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/slideout-ASCE-aviations2-768x895-1-343x400.jpg "slideout-ASCE-aviations2-768x895")ASCE recently sent out what we call a “Key Alert” to members last week urging them to contact their members of Congress and support reauthorizing the bill that funds the nation’s airports. With legislation finally introduced in both the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), it’s the time for champions of civil engineering issues to roll up their sleeves and [contact to their Members of Congress](https://votervoice.net/ASCE/Campaigns/106175/Respond) so that FAA programs don’t expire on September 30, 2023. ***Wait a minute, it’s almost July. Why are we receiving a Key Alert now?*** It is true that ASCE set its [118th Congressional priorities](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/asce-118th-congressional-priorities.pdf) in January and over 242 ASCE members met with their federal delegations in-person at our annual Legislative Fly-In to discuss the importance of reauthorizing FAA programs before they expire on September 30. However, now we have bill text – the Senate’s [*FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023*](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/BF163CA6-12C4-4992-A760-0A7D9378E759) and the House’s [*Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act*](https://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/sgrlaa_act_intro_text.pdf) were introduced **this June** and recently passed out of committee. ASCE Government Relations is expecting both bills to come to the floor very soon for a chamber vote, so it’s now time for ASCE members and infrastructure advocates to urge action on this issue. ***What exactly is a Key Alert?*** ASCE tracks federal and state legislation that could have a positive or negative impact on civil engineering on legislation affecting the profession. To help guide the public policy dialogue, ASCE Government Relations sets up email templates in [ASCE’s online action center](https://votervoice.net/ASCE/Campaigns). Once you input your voting address information, you can then [customize the message](https://votervoice.net/ASCE/Campaigns/106175/Respond) with your personal story and project examples, and the system will send it directly to your Members of Congress’ inboxes. While we make it easy by sending your message to the right place, it is essential that you tailor your message in your own voice and use local examples! Authenticity is key. ***Do my Members of Congress actually want to hear from me?*** Your Members of Congress primary role is solving constituents’—your—problems. According to the [Congressional Management Foundation](https://ourpublicservice.org/publications/state-of-the-congress-2022/) (CMF), Democrats (47%) and Republicans (52%) identified “solving constituents’ problems” as Senators’ and Representatives’ most important role. CMF [found](https://www.congressfoundation.org/projects/communicating-with-congress/citizen-centric-advocacy-2017) that congressional offices also are in need of personalized and local information to Congress on pending legislation. 9 out of 10 (91%) congressional staffers surveyed said it would be helpful to have “information about the impact the bill/issue would have on the district or state.” However, only 9% report they receive that information frequently. Similarly, 79% said a personal story from a constituent related to the bill or issue would be helpful, but only 18% report they receive it frequently. ***I’m new to advocacy. What do I do next?![key alert](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/grassroots-400x139.jpg "grassroots")*** The easiest first step to take is to sign up as an ASCE [Key Contact](http://message.asce.org/2016KeyContactRecruitmentCampaign?&_ga=2.88081692.606445036.1687984450-699627384.1685550036&_gac=1.174918038.1685745396.EAIaIQobChMIt_ag-tKl_wIViEhyCh1K1wwBEAAYASAAEgJVNvD_BwE). By doing so, you’ll automatically receive any upcoming Key Alerts . You’ll also start receiving every Friday *This Week in Washington*—a weekly e-newsletter for ASCE members only focused on federal and state public policy developments. You’ll also receive direct invitations to ASCE Key Contact Webinars — interactive webinars with timely updates on the bipartisan infrastructure law’s implementation, policy issues of importance to civil engineering, and advocacy tips. Last, check out ASCE’s [Advocacy page](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/) and consider: • Exploring ASCE’s [priority issues](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/priority-issues) to advance the civil engineering profession and ASCE’s [one-stop shop](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) for understanding and tracking implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law (password is ‘raisethegrades’); • Researching legislation and regulatory activity happening in your state by visiting ASCE’s [state legislative tracking](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/state-legislative-tracking). • Applying to attend ASCE’s annual [Legislative Fly-In](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/legislative-fly-in)—a two-day program in Washington, D.C. reinforcing the skills needed to meet with legislators, with keynote addresses by policymakers, presentations by public policy experts on the topics that attendees will carry to Capitol Hill. ASCE Government Relations is here for you every step of the way. Have more questions or want to discuss more advocacy opportunities? Please reach out to <govwash@asce.org>. 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The short- and long-term strategies were collected from a group of practitioners in the public and private sector. **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F08%2FWorforce-Report-Logo-Sized-TRY-ONE.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F08%2FWorforce-Report-Logo-Sized-TRY-ONE.png&description=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")### [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Worforce-Report-Logo-400x283.jpg "Worforce Report Logo")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NGA_ASCE_Workforce_BestPractices_Final.pdf) This month, the [American Society of Civil Engineers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) (ASCE) and the National Governors Association (NGA) [Center for Best Practices](https://www.nga.org/bestpractices/workforce-development-economic-policy/) released a policy brief identifying effective approaches for recruiting and retaining infrastructure workers. The short- and long-term strategies were collected from a group of practitioners, including America’s Governors’ offices and appointees, the federal government, infrastructure owners, operators from the public and private sectors, engineering contractors, and academics training tomorrow’s workforce. Read the full report on ASCE’s website here: [Strategies to Address Engineering Workforce Challenges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NGA_ASCE_Workforce_BestPractices_Final.pdf "Strategies to Address Engineering Workforce Challenges") ## Infrastructure Law Brings Benefits and Challenges Passage of the $1.2 trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in late 2021 was a watershed moment for our nation’s infrastructure. However, with additional money from this Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, there come new challenges. Increased investment levels amid accelerating retirement trends and poor attrition rates in the infrastructure space compound existing gaps in the engineering and infrastructure workforce and threaten this generational opportunity’s overall impact. Solving workforce challenges, the new policy brief explains, is possible using short-term recruitment and retention strategies for the engineering and infrastructure professions and long-term education and industry advancement strategies. ## Short-term recruitment and retention strategies for engineering and infrastructure workers • Identifying current workforce pain points and goals • Evaluating compensation, flexibility, and advancement opportunities • Incorporating caregiving needs into workplace programming and culture • Supporting employees on the sidelines with flexible career re-entry tools • Reducing time-to-hire and other recruitment barriers • Reducing barriers to procurement success for small firms and disadvantaged business enterprises • Reducing barriers to entry as the pipeline expands • Offering place-based opportunities in communities benefiting from investment • Building strategic partnerships with schools, skills, and community organizations • Praising and promoting the technical achievements of infrastructure ## Long-term engineering education and infrastructure industry advancement strategies • Increasing the affordability of education • Creating multiple entry points to the engineering and infrastructure professions • Developing college programming for engineering student retention and support • Encouraging high school students to enter infrastructure professions ## Contributors to Infrastructure Workforce Best Practices This report is based on insights from engineering and infrastructure leaders, and we thank them for their contributions. - U.S. Department of Labor - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - U.S. Department of Transportation - WSP - Government Finance Officers Association - WSSC Water - National Governors Association - Office of New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy - Office of West Virginia Governor Jim Justice - American Society of Civil Engineers - American Public Works Association - American Council of Engineering Companies - West Virginia Division of Highways - Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Corporation - Terracon - KansasWorks State Board - Washington Department of Transportation - S&ME - National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine - Lightcast - LMS General Contractors - Cypress Environment and Infrastructure [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Best%20Practices%20to%20Recruit%20and%20Retain%20Infrastructure%20Workers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure workers, infrastructure workforce, recruiting strategies, retention strategies --- ### [Imagine A Day Without Water: Our most valuable resource](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water-our-most-valuable-resource/) **Published:** October 19, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Imagine%20A%20Day%20Without%20Water%3A%20Our%20most%20valuable%20resource&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Can you imagine a day without water? Think about how many times you turn on a faucet, flush a toilet, take a shower, or use water to keep your home or workplace clean. Life without water would change a lot of things we do every day to be a lot more complicated. Civil engineers work around the clock to keep water systems operating so you can live your life without worrying about what comes out of your faucet. **For many communities, a day without water has been a reality** October 19th marks the ninth annual “Imagine A Day Without Water” with the US Water Alliance. It’s a day where we are reminded of the importance of clean, accessible, affordable drinking water – and that many communities still face challenges with water access. Over the past few years, we’ve seen headlines showing how vulnerable the water infrastructure in American communities is. Last year, [Hurricane Fiona caused extensive water problems in Puerto Rico](https://www.npr.org/2022/09/20/1123984002/hurricane-fiona-puerto-rico-lost-more-than-power-vast-majority-no-clean-water) and the [failure of the water treatment plant in Jackson Mississippi](https://abcnews.go.com/US/jackson-water-crisis-caused-decades-investment-doj-appointed/story?id=97334421) forced an American city of nearly 160,000 people to rely on bottled water for their drinking needs. People in those communities shared with ASCE what it was like to adjust to live without reliable water sources temporarily. **Where America’s water systems are now** ASCE’s *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* assigned America’s drinking water a grade of ‘C-‘. That’s an improvement from the 2017 grade of ‘D’. But that’s still a grade nobody wants to see on a report card when it comes to something we all need to survive. Water loss is a staggering problem in America. There is a water main break once every two minutes in the United States and about six billion gallons of treated water is lost every day – which is enough to fill 9,000 swimming pools each day. There are more than two million miles of water pipes delivering water to millions of people. Others rely on private wells for their drinking water. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is bringing a historic investment in America’s water systems, with $50 billion in funds through Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Programs. However, that $50 billion in funding is just a faction of the estimated investment needed in America’s water systems according to ASCE’s 2020 report: [The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Failure-to-Act-Water-Wastewater-2020-Final.pdf). **Don’t take water access for granted** Access to water has changed the course of history. Cities have been developed because of their proximity to water. Fights over water sources have sparked prolonged legal fights. The water we depend on every day is a valuable resource that must be invested in so we all have access to clean, safe, reliable drinking water. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20and%20Senate%20appropriations%20bills%20differ%20on%20transportation%20funding%2C%20setting%20stage%20for%20fiscal%20battle&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F07%2Fandy-feliciotti-isg8AL7-6uk-unsplash.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20and%20Senate%20appropriations%20bills%20differ%20on%20transportation%20funding%2C%20setting%20stage%20for%20fiscal%20battle "Share on 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of Representatives and Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) bills indicate the two chambers have a lot of work to do to reach a compromise on Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 spending legislation. The House Committee on Appropriations approved their [FY 2024 THUD spending bill](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/AP/AP00/20230718/116260/BILLS-118--AP--AP00-FY24THUDFullCommitteeMark.pdf) on July 18th after a blistering all-day markup session. The House bill, which includes a discretionary total of $90.2 billion, was approved by a [34-27 vote](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/committee-approves-fy24-transportation-housing-and-urban-development-and-related). A discretionary total of $21.6 billion would be provided to the Department of Transportation (DOT), while $68.2 billion would be provided to the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). On the other side of the Capitol, the Senate Committee on Appropriations approved their [FY 2024 THUD spending bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/fy24_thud_bill_text.pdf) on July 20th in a more bipartisan fashion, approving the legislation by a [vote of 29-0](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/majority/senate-appropriations-committee-approves-energy-and-water-development-state-foreign-operations-and-transportation-hud-bills). The bill provides a total of $98.9 billion in discretionary spending, with DOT receiving $28.4 billion and HUD receiving just over $70 billion. The disparity between the House and Senate transportation funding bills carries potential implications for implementation of the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684) (IIJA), which ASCE strongly supported. The House bill reduces or eliminates annual funding for major grant programs that also receive funding from the IIJA. While these grant programs received a total of $8.6 billion in the FY 2023 appropriations law, the House bill would cut that figure down to $1.5 billion. The Senate bill would keep funding levels more consistent with the previous year, providing $8.3 billion for these programs. Funding proposed for Amtrak demonstrates the bills’ different approaches to transportation spending. The Senate bill proposes $2.4 billion for Amtrak, while the House bill would drastically reduce funding to $876 million. Similar disparities can be seen across various agencies. The Senate bill proposes $16.9 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), which the House bill would trim to $14.7 billion. The Senate bill provides $1.2 billion for the Maritime Administration (MADAD), while the House bill includes $753.3 million for this agency. Many of the House bill’s proposals are below FY 2023 enacted levels, but one notable exception is funding for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The House bill increases total budgetary resources for the FAA to $19.5 billion, which is $529 million above the FY 2023 enacted level. Like the House spending bill, the Senate bill includes a boost for the FAA, providing $20.3 billion. The GOP-led House bill also reflects appropriators’ positions on issues championed by the Biden-Harris Administration. It particularly targets certain initiatives related to equity and climate change, eliminating $100 million for DOT’s Thriving Communities Program and rejecting a request for $26 million to electrify DOT’s federal vehicle fleet. The differences between the House and Senate transportation spending bills suggest lawmakers will need to do some serious compromising to find a middle ground on FY 2024 appropriations legislation. ASCE has sent letters to appropriators urging them to invest in infrastructure and maintain the commitments made by the IIJA. Cutting funding would have detrimental effects on public safety, infrastructure modernization, and transportation services that are relied on by millions of people. ASCE will continue to track the Congressional appropriations process as lawmakers seek to pass their bills to avert a government shutdown that would begin October 1. 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for the nation’s infrastructure?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-government-shutdown-imminent-what-does-this-mean-for-the-nations-infrastructure/) **Published:** September 29, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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shutdown imminent. While the duration of any potential shutdown is unclear, House Republicans have still not coalesced around a path forward for Fiscal Year 2024, and the implications of a government shutdown would begin on Monday. Immediately, this means that many, though not all, federal government functions are suspended, and many federal employees are furloughed. Services that the government deems “essential,” such as those related to law enforcement and public safety continue; however, these essential employees work without pay until the shutdown ends. Overall, a government shutdown hamstrings the work of federal agencies that are responsible for our nation’s infrastructure systems, creating uncertainty for ongoing projects and preventing new projects from getting underway. Operations and processes that millions of Americans rely on every day would experience the effects of a shutdown. Transportation Security Administration (or TSA) personnel and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) air traffic controllers—both deemed essential federal employees—work without pay during government shutdowns, which may result in delays due to staffing shortages. Other FAA activities, such as Passenger Facility Charge approvals, the training of new air traffic controllers, aviation rulemaking, the testing of new technologies and safety standards, and most functions related to administration, would cease. Further exacerbating issues at the FAA, is Congress’ failure to approve an extension of FAA programs after the current reauthorization bill also expired on September 30th. This failure means funding authority for the Airport and Airways Trust Fund also lapses and that any grant payments, contract payments or purchases will be halted on October 1st, until an extension is passed. A shutdown of federal agencies also has negative effects on the state and local government agencies that depend on federal funds. Federal programs, such as the popular [Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (or RAISE) program](https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants/about), which public entities rely on to support road, rail, transit, and port projects, would experience a slowdown if federal operations are put on hold. State departments of transportation could become hesitant to authorize new highway construction projects while federal funding is uncertain. Federal agencies have [released contingency plans](https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/information-for-agencies/agency-contingency-plans/) in the event of a government shutdown. According to the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) [plan](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/2023-09/Consolidated%20DOT%20Shutdown%20Plan%20OMB%20approved%209-22-2023.pdf), over 26,000 employees would stay on the job because their work is “necessary to protect life and property.” Some 18,000 employees would be furloughed. Employees at the Federal Highway Administration, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would not be impacted because they are paid out of the Highway Trust Fund and other sources that are not dependent on annual government funding. Meanwhile, at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), over 10,000 employees would be furloughed and activities such as the issuance of permits, the approval of state requests, and the awarding of new grants would all cease. By briefly ceasing environmental reviews by the EPA during a shutdown, infrastructure projects across the country can be delayed as they await permitting. Another unique issue from this shutdown is that the Disaster Relief Fund has been seriously depleted in the past few months from recent severe weather events and now approximately contains $2.6 billion. This drop means that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has had to pause obligations for $1.5 billion in public assistance projects to make sure it has funding for more immediate needs as they arise. So far, more than 1,600 Public Assistance projects from across the country have been paused. Unless Congress can provide approximately $12 billion in supplemental funding for the Disaster Relief Fund, these projects will remain on hold. Congress failing to address this issue and causing a government shutdown means that these projects will continue to be on hold and could create a situation where other projects need to be sidelined. ASCE strongly urges Congress to ensure the continuity of government functions and keep the U.S. government open. Recent investments in the nation’s infrastructure represent a strong step toward reversing decades of underinvestment in our critical systems, however a government shutdown does not allow these investments to be implemented efficiently or effectively. The nation’s civil engineers are up to the challenge to maintain and modernize our infrastructure systems, but it is up to Congress to ensure that the federal government is a reliable partner. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=What%20would%20a%20possible%20government%20shutdown%20mean%20for%20the%20nation%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure, Uncategorized **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure investment --- ### [Buy America Comment Deadline Reached](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/buy-america-comment-deadline-reached/) **Published:** March 16, 2023 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Buy%20America%20Comment%20Deadline%20Reached&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F07%2FASCE_underserved-communities-e1680889205930.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Buy%20America%20Comment%20Deadline%20Reached "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Buy%20America%20Comment%20Deadline%20Reached&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")For decades, Buy America requirements were focused on iron and steel and had only covered certain federally funded infrastructure projects; however, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) expanded those provisions and added new products to the list. Therefore, since the passage of the IIJA, the Office of Management and Budget has been tasked with providing guidance to federal agencies on topics such as what materials and products Buy America requirements will apply to, what is defined as a construction material versus a manufactured product, what constitutes infrastructure, and how the waiver process will be structured. To begin to clarify the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA) requirements that were included in the IIJA, in April 2022, OMB released guidance to agencies on the application of requirements; however, each agency was tasked with managing their own waiver process. Then, this February, OMB issued proposed guidance on how to implement BABAA provisions. This guidance provides additional information on how the federal government will interpret the “produced in the United States” requirements for manufactured products, construction materials, and iron/steel and attempts to clarify how the government will distinguish between a manufactured product and a steel/iron product, as well as how the government will define the requirement that “all manufacturing processes” for construction materials occur in the United States. The February guidance followed President Biden’s announcement during the State of the Union that his Administration would implement new standards to require all construction materials used in federal infrastructure projects to be made in America. Comments to the proposed guidance were due on March 13, and over 1,700 individual comments were submitted to the Federal Register. While ASCE supports the intention of the BABAA, there remain some concerns about hampering innovation, causing unnecessary project delays and cost increases, and further constraining markets. While guidance from the Administration related to BABAA is helpful, with continued inflation and supply chain issues already creating challenges for the effective implementation of the IIJA, it will be critical to not add additional burdens or requirements that could further impede the full impacts of this historic investment. For many gadgets and materials that engineering professionals rely on every day, there are no American manufacturers. For example, products such as steam turbine generators, building electronics, and high-alloy piping are no longer available from U.S.-based manufacturers. In some cases, there are American manufacturers, but their lead times are extremely long, and it may be quicker to get the equipment from offshore manufacturers than domestic ones. Therefore, earlier this week ASCE joined its partners in the Transportation Construction Coalition in submitting comments to OMB on the proposed BABAA guidance. In the comments, the coalition reiterated support for maximizing investments from the IIJA, as well as growing domestic manufacturing. However, the comments also requested that OMB clarify that BABAA requirements do not apply to temporary products used on construction projects, and urged OMB to follow Congress’ intent by excluding aggregates and related materials from Buy America preferences. Furthermore, another key concern from infrastructure stakeholders continues to be the calculation of the 55 percent produced in the United States provision. Many manufacturers, especially in the water sector, which utilizes components like valves, pumps, and aerators, must match an exacting design standard set by a utility that often comes at a range of prices, making it very difficult to comply with the 55 percent cost compliance. Stakeholders have actively shared these concerns with OMB during the comment period. Going forward, ASCE will continue to track how BABAA requirements will impact the implementation of the IIJA, as well as how federal agencies are following domestic sourcing requirements and how implementation of BABAA continues to vary from agency to agency. 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One key to successful implementation is ensuring there are workers to design and build those systems. The civil engineering profession currently faces a worker shortage, and the vast percentage of experienced engineers expected to retire within the next 10 years – or “Silver Tsunami” as some have called it – will only exacerbate the issue. The companies and government agencies that help build and maintain America’s infrastructure are working to develop solutions to retain the current workforce and draw in future engineers. As part of Infrastructure Week, ASCE held two panels with leading industry and government experts on finding solutions as the infrastructure workforce evolves. The first panel, *Recruiting & Retaining Today’s Infrastructure Workforce*, focused on recruiting and retaining the infrastructure workforce. ASCE President Maria Lehman, who led the conversation, called workforce challenges “the 800-pound gorilla in the room” as the public and private sector deal with increasing competition for workers and a growing number of employees retiring after successful careers. ![Panel discussion with four speakers on a stage and a large blue logo screen behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/IMG_0950-400x300.jpg "IMG_0950")Panelist Anna Enrich with Nucor talked about her company’s apprenticeship programs, where workers are split between education and work experience to help them develop their skills. They say these programs have helped create a pipeline of workers to further their careers. Other solutions discussed during the forum included co-op programs for students considering infrastructure careers and allowing flexibility using Pell Grants and 529 funds for vocational programs. The forum also discussed workplace culture and ensuring the infrastructure workforce feels valued and appreciated. **Panelists included:** - Bill Hanson, Sr. Vice President, Government Relations & Business Development, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock - Tom Curtin, Program Director, Infrastructure, National Governors Association - Anna Ehrich, Director, Federal Government Affairs, Nucor Corporation The second panel, *Growing the Pipeline for the Digital Transformation*, focused on the digital transformation of engineering and infrastructure work and growing the pipeline. ASCE President-Elect Marsia Geldert-Murphey talked about her work mentoring future engineers at the high school level and the exciting opportunities for them in the industry.![Panel of five professionals seated on a stage during a discussion, microphones in hand, with a large screen displaying the ASSE/AMERICAN SOCIETY logo behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/panel2-400x300.jpg "panel2") The second panel discussed the evolution of infrastructure work and technology. As new engineers enter the workforce, they may have skills their future employers are not utilizing already. Employers must consider these skills in addition to how to make jobs more exciting with new technology for workers who have been immersed in modern technology from a very young age. They also discussed sharing best practices for new technology and collaboration between the private and public sectors at all levels moving forward. The panel also discussed the importance of sharing industry successes to encourage people to pursue careers in engineering, manufacturing, and construction. **Other speakers on the panel included:** - Ted Whiton – Executive General Manager, Americas for GHD - Abigail Campbell Singer, Sr. Director and Head of Climate and Infrastructure Policy, Siemens - Sunil Dorairajan, Sr. Director Construction Industry Strategy, Autodesk - Rob Puentes, President & CEO, Eno Center for Transportation [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Hosts%20Biden%20Administration%20Officials%20for%20Resilience%20Events&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The first term of the Biden Administration has demonstrated a commitment to not only combatting the effects of climate change, but also ensuring that critical infrastructure systems are able stand up to increasingly severe storms and weather events. The passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included billions in investments to rebuild and modernize the nation’s electric grid, upgrade water infrastructure systems, and strengthen disaster mitigation programs. The administration further demonstrated its commitment to these principles last week by joining ASCE for two events focused on the incorporation of resilience measures into critical infrastructure, addressing the effects of climate change, and improving ASCE codes and standards to design more climate ready infrastructure. On Wednesday, February 1st, the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) joined ASCE for a discussion and collaboration session on its upcoming [National Nature Assessment](https://www.globalchange.gov/nna). The inaugural assessment will be conducted by the U.S. Global Change Research Program to gain a greater understanding of the impact of climate change on the natural environment. It will examine all aspects of nature in the U.S. from land and water, to health and economic benefits, and national security implications. The objective of the event was to seek input from ASCE and its members on how best to focus the development of the assessment. OSTP asked participants to focus on several questions and issues, including what constitutes nature, what decisions the assessment should support, and what sources of information should guide the assessment’s formation. ![Speaker in a suit presenting at a conference, standing beside a large screen that reads 'National Nature Assessment' with audience members in foreground](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Michael-Connor-OSTP-400x267.jpeg "Michael Connor OSTP") ASCE President Maria Lehman addressed the attendees and emphasized the importance of incorporating natural features into infrastructure systems to address the impacts of climate change, noting that “incorporating nature-based solutions and best practices into our infrastructure systems can contribute meaningfully to our resilience, economic health, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.” Attendees also heard from a number of Biden Administration Officials about the importance of the upcoming assessment, including Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works [Michael Connor](https://www.army.mil/article/252472/mr_michael_connor_assistant_secretary_of_the_army_for_civil_works?utm_campaign=GR-2023-2-3-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), White House Deputy Director for Climate and Environment [Jane Lubchecno](https://www.janelubchenco.com/bio-and-quotes.html?utm_campaign=GR-2023-2-3-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), and White House OSTP Assistant Director of Environmental Science, Engineering, Policy and Justice [Dr. Gretchen Goldman](https://gretchengoldman.com/about/?utm_campaign=GR-2023-2-3-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua). [White House OSTP is currently seeking input](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/10/31/2022-23593/framing-the-national-nature-assessment) on the development of the National Nature Assessment and will be accepting comments until March 31, 2023. ![Seven professionals in a formal meeting sign documents around a large conference table, with an American flag in the background and two people shaking hands in the center.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/MOU-2-400x267.jpg "MOU 2") On Thursday, February 2nd, ASCE’s Environmental and Water Resources Institute (EWRI) hosted officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for a [Leadership Summit on Climate Ready Infrastructure](https://www.asce.org/education-and-events/events/meetings/asce-noaa-leadership-summit-on-climate-ready-infrastructure). NOAA Administrator [Dr. Richard W. Spinrad](https://www.noaa.gov/our-people/leadership/richard-w-spinrad-phd) spoke to attendees to discuss a [new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/article/2023/02/02/agreement-between-noaa-and-asce-prepares-nation-for-climate-ready-infrastructure) between NOAA and ASCE signed the previous day. The MOU establishes a new partnership with ASCE and outlines how NOAA’s work on climate science will inform the development of ASCE codes and standards, and manuals of practice. Last Thursday’s summit also featured several panel discussions focused on climate ready infrastructure and its future in the civil engineering field. The first discussion focused on progress currently being made on development of climate ready infrastructure , and featured government officials, climate scientists, and civil engineers- including [Don Scott](https://www.asce.org/education-and-events/explore-education/instructors/donald-scott), Chairman of ASCE’s Structural Engineering Institute’s Resilience Committee and Codes and Standards Executive Committee. Another panel focused on taking a broader look at the importance of resilience and sustainability to the practice of engineering. Panelists included several experts such as [NOAA’s Chief Scientist Dr. Sarah Kapnick](https://www.noaa.gov/our-people/leadership/sarah-kapnick-phd) who noted the potential of incorporating climate science into building codes to reduce risks associated with severe weather events. The day’s final panel focused on incorporating equity into climate-ready infrastructure design, which focused on disparities in critical infrastructure systems which have disproportionately affected communities of color. Panelists included [Catherine Coleman Flowers](https://www.creej.org/founder), founder of the Center for Rural Enterprise and Environmental Justice, who recounted her experiences witnessing environmental injustice growing up in Alabama. ASCE remains committed to building a 21st century infrastructure that can stand up to the impacts of climate change. Bringing expert voices to the conversation and building partnerships with agencies and organizations that share ASCE’s goals will be essential to reducing the effects of climate change on the built environment while preserving and sustainably utilizing the natural environment to protect public health and safety. ASCE looks forward to working with these partners going forward, and to continue these critical discussions in the months and years ahead. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Alabama%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20Grade%20for%20the%20Second%20Time&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Thursday, March 31, the Alabama Section of ASCE unveiled its 2022 Report Card for Alabama’s Infrastructure, the state’s first report card since 2015. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “C-”, which is on par with the national grade of “C-“ and the same grade the state received in its 2015 report. A “C-” grade means the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. ![A man in a suit speaks at a wooden podium with two large green posters titled 'Alabama's Infrastructure 2022' on easels beside him in a conference room.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lt.-Gov-Ainsworth-400x225.jpg "Lt. Gov Ainsworth")Alabama Lt Governor Will AinsworthThe report analyzes 12 categories of infrastructure pertinent to Alabama: aviation (C), bridges (C+), dams (Incomplete), drinking water (C-), energy (B), inland waterways (D), ports (B), rail (B), roads (C-), stormwater (D+), transit (C-) and wastewater (D). Alabama Report Card co-chair Joe Meads, P.E., presented the findings in the report to an in-person audience at the Alabama Department of Archives & History in Montgomery, AL. Alabama Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth and state Senator Clyde Chambliss, who is also an engineer and ASCE member, provided remarks about the state of infrastructure in Alabama. ![Bald man in a suit speaks at a wooden podium in a conference room, flanked by two tall poster boards about Alabama's infrastructure affairs.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Sen.-Clyde-Chambliss-400x300.jpg "Sen. Clyde Chambliss")Alabama State Senator Clyde ChamblissAlabama has taken significant steps to improve its infrastructure systems. The 2019 Rebuild Alabama Act increased the state’s gas tax by 10 cents, creating an estimated $320 million in new funding per year for Alabama’s roads and bridges, which led to each receiving significant grade increases from the 2015 report, as roads improved from a “D+” to a “C-“ and bridges improved from a “C-“ to a “C+”. This investment has resulted in an additional 9,000 jobs and played a part in Alabama’s improving bridge conditions, as the percentage rated in ‘poor’ condition has dropped dramatically from 8.6% in 2015 to 3.8% currently, half the national average. Rebuild Alabama, along with the Alabama Transportation Rehabilitation Improvement Program (ATRIP), implemented a combined 141 widening, resurfacing, repair, remediation, lane additions, lane extensions, intersection improvements, and more projects for the state’s roads between 2020 and 2021. Despite these improvements, Alabama’s surface transportation network was facing such significant funding shortages that ATRIP and Rebuild Alabama have mostly kept the system afloat and additional resources are needed to get these systems to satisfactory conditions. Future roadway needs are projected to cost nearly $37 billion by 2035, while ALDOT will need to spend more than triple the current annual funding level over the next 10 years to maintain current bridge condition levels. Luckily, an infusion of federal investment from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will lessen these funding gaps. Energy (B), ports (B) and rail (B), each of which playing a massive role in economic stability, received the highest grades in the report. Alabama consumes roughly the same amount of energy as it produces and the network has grown to be more resilient to withstand increasingly severe weather events; the state ranks 6th in the nation for total net electricity generation. The Rebuild Alabama Act included $150 million for ports, while the Alabama State Port authority has spent $1.4 billion on channel improvements since 2002. The Port of Mobile is the 11th largest single deep-water port in the U.S. by volume and the Container Terminal is the nation’s fastest growing container terminal. The Port Authority’s total economic value is $25.4 billion, with the sector providing more than 150,000 jobs. Unfortunately, water systems in the state are lagging behind. Dams received an ‘Incomplete’ grade again in this report, just like it did in the section’s 2015 report, as Alabama still is the only state in the U.S. without a dam safety program, which disqualifies itself from accessing federal infrastructure funds for inspections, training, and rehabilitation. Based on estimates by Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), the US Army Corp. of Engineers (USACE) and other sources, the National Inventory of Dams shows that Alabama has 226 high hazard potential dams (HHPD), meaning if they were to fail it would lead to loss of life or significant property damage. Through a grant from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), ADECA has made progress on preparing an inventory of dams in Alabama, but more funding is needed for ADECA to perform onsite surveys, inspections, or assessments. ![Group of professionals in business attire pose on courthouse steps, standing around a tall green poster board about Alabama's 2022 infrastructure report card at an outdoor event.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/AL-Section-400x230.jpg "AL Section")The Alabama Section of ASCE presents its 2022 Infrastructure Report CardThe state’s water systems are severely underfunded and, as a result, their conditions have deteriorated. Inland waterways (D) and wastewater (D) received the lowest grades in the report. Lack of funding has led to deferred maintenance of the state’s inland waterways, causing these structures to be unavailable for commercial traffic, slowing down the shipment of commodities and hindering the economy. Two of the state’s locks have been completely closed to traffic due to poor conditions and 12 of the 16 locks were built more than 50 years ago. Alabama’s wastewater systems have more than $3 billion in needs over the next 15 years. One quarter of the state’s septic tanks are failing, and utility rates are just two-thirds the national average, proving inadequate for improving and maintaining these systems. At least 50% of the state’s wastewater infrastructure – including treatment systems and conveyance networks – needs expansion. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, including the recommendation for the state to establish a dam safety program to inspect the condition of the state’s dams and create a revolving grant or loan program to rehabilitate and repair dams in need. 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Infrastructure Tax We're All Paying: New Economic Study](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-hidden-infrastructure-tax-were-all-paying-new-economic-study/) **Published:** January 12, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Narrow that down to $275 each month—a typical car payment. Simplify that number a little more to $63 dollars a week – takeout for a family a four once a week (we’re all doing a lot of that these days). This amount of money–$3,300/year, $275/month, and $63/week— is how much inadequate infrastructure, like sitting in traffic, hitting a pothole, your power going out, or a water main break, is costing the average American household, according to a new economic study released today by ASCE. The study, [*Failure to Act: Economic Impacts of Status Quo Investment Across Infrastructure Systems*](https://www.asce.org/failuretoact/)*,* finds that continued underinvestment in infrastructure and the inefficiencies that will result will have a cascading effect on the economy, increasing the burden on families, business productivity, and overall GDP year after year over the next 20 years. The study notes that infrastructure inadequacies will cause the loss of $10 trillion in GDP and lead to a decline of more than $23 trillion in business productivity cumulatively over the next two decades if the U.S. does not close the growing gap in the investments needed for bridges, roads, airports, power grid, water supplies, and more. Jobs losses nationally will reach 3 million in 2039. That’s two times the number of Walmart employees in the U.S. Industries such as manufacturing and healthcare are particularly vulnerable to the drastic impacts of unreliable, inefficient infrastructure: nearly half (about 47%) of the projected jobs lost in 2039 will be in high-wage and high-production jobs like these. To paint the picture of how this impacts manufacturing, the production of goods — such as cars, chemicals, foods and metals — requires energy, water, transportation systems, and ports for those goods being shipped, including to international markets. If the infrastructure investment gap is not closed, the report says U.S. exports will be reduced by $2.4 trillion and the country will lose $4 trillion in trade, which will lead to the national trade deficit to balloon by $626 billion by 2039. Between now and 2039, the ASCE report estimates that nearly $13 trillion is needed across 11 infrastructure areas: highways, bridges, rail, transit, drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, electricity, airports, seaports, and inland waterways. With planned investments in infrastructure currently totaling $7.3 trillion, that leaves a $5.6 trillion investment gap by 2039. The investment gap for surface transportation investment has grown since the previous study in 2016—from $1.1 trillion over 10 years to $1.2 trillion over 10 years. While increased investment from the federal and state levels have helped shrink the gap, or even just keep it steady in some areas (such as inland waterways, ports, and to a lesser extent, aviation), the areas that are most recognizable to all Americans—water, wastewater, roads, bridges, rail, and transit are where the nation is falling further behind. While we are already paying the price, it is not to late to act now to mitigate the harm to our GDP, trade volumes, and declines in personal income, since more than three-quarters of the total economic impacts projected in our 20-year study occur during the second decade (2030-2039). Additional infrastructure investments will safeguard against: - 80% of gross output losses, or $18.8 trillion. This is about three times the manufacturing industry’s gross output in 2019. - 79% of GDP declines, or $8.1 trillion. This is more than 2x Germany’s annual GDP in 2019. - 78% of disposable household income losses, or $7.6 trillion. This is half the total combined disposable income of all Americans in 2019. So, how can we jumpstart the U.S. economy and break out of the pandemic recession? One way: infrastructure investment. America’s overdue infrastructure bill is costing every American household money they cannot afford to lose—especially now. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/FTA-Infographic-FINAL-243x400.jpg "Stack Bar Chart") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Fiscal%20Responsibility%20Act%3A%20How%20It%20Impacts%20Our%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Over the Memorial Day weekend, President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) announced an agreement to avoid a U.S. debt default, which has been estimated as early as June 5th by U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen. The closely negotiated proposal quickly passed the House of Representatives by a vote of [314-117](https://clerk.house.gov/evs/2023/roll243.xml) and was then taken up and passed in the Senate by a vote of [63-36](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1181/vote_118_1_00146.htm) the following evening. The Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023 ([H.R. 3746](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/3746)) suspends the $31.4 trillion debt limit through January 1, 2025 and holds non-defense spending roughly flat in 2024, before increasing it by just 1% in 2025. While the legislation does lay out larger fiscal policy over the next two years, many provisions in the bill have direct ties to the nation’s infrastructure. The bill explicitly safeguards funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, exempting H.R. 3746 from having any “budgetary effects” or creating any “discretionary spending limits” related to the bipartisan infrastructure law. But, beyond safeguarding the IIJA, the legislation impacts infrastructure spending and project approval in several other ways, which are detailed below. ## **![fiscal responsibility act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Minneapolis-400x225.webp "Minneapolis")Transportation Rescissions** Some transportation funds will be impacted through an overall rescission of approximately $28 billion in unobligated 2021 appropriations, as well as funding provided by both the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES)Act and the American Rescue Plan. Impacted transportation programs included in the rescission are: - $2.2 billion in unobligated FY 2021 Omnibus appropriations for Federal Highway Administration programs, excluding any IIJA resources. - $133.9 million in Airport and Airway Trust Fund dollars from the CARES Act, as well as $54 million in relief for airports under the American Rescue Plan. - $2 million from Amtrak under the American Rescue Plan. - $15 million from the Broadband Connectivity Fund. The $3 billion in unobligated transit dollars, however, will not be rescinded and has explicitly been protected. ## **Permitting Reform** The 118th Congress takes its first steps toward further permitting reform in the Fiscal Responsibility Act of 2023. ASCE strongly encouraged permitting reform policy to be included in any bipartisan agreement and the Society is happy to see that many elements of the [BUILDER Act](https://transportation.house.gov/builder-act/default.aspx) made it into the debt ceiling agreement. The final legislation aims to speed up the permitting process through setting deadlines for environmental reviews and further clarifying language. However, the permitting language is considered by both McCarthy and Biden as a first step for permitting reform this year, as both parties still want to advance permitting reform legislation that includes transmission, pipelines, and other infrastructure. A full list of provisions that made it into the final package includes: - Amending the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to clarify and narrow agency considerations to “reasonably foreseeable environmental impacts of the proposed agency action.” - Codifying certain elements of One Federal Decision, including the development of a lead agency, creating procedures to elevate delays, and allowing for the preparation of a single environmental document. - Setting reasonable page limits for environmental documents. - Setting time limits of one year for environmental assessments and two years for environmental impact statements. - Facilitates agencies’ adoption of categorial exclusions of another agency through a new streamlined process. - Allowing a project sponsor to assist agencies with environmental reviews without taking control away from the lead agency. - Clarifying that a major federal action is limited to those which are “subject to Federal control and responsibility.” - Requiring agencies to use reliable existing data sources. - Clarifying that NEPA does not require undertaking new scientific and technical research to inform analyses. - Directing the Council on Environmental Quality to conduct a study on applying modern digital technologies to provide efficiency in the permitting process. - Requiring the consideration of a government-wide permitting portal to streamline communications and data sharing between agencies and applicants. ## **Transmission Infrastructure** The Fiscal Responsibility Act requires the North American Electric Reliability Corp. to assess how much “prudent” transmission capacity is needed to share electricity with neighboring regions to strengthen grid reliability. The group would have a year and a half to study whether more transfer capacity is needed between regions. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) would then have a year to seek and consider public comments on the study before filing a report to Congress. The language comes in the wake of recent power outages across the country and galvanizes FERC to make increasing transfer capacity a priority. ## **Energy Storage** The bill makes energy storage projects eligible for permitting under the FAST-41. FAST-41, first authorized in 2015 as part of the FAST Act surface transportation reauthorization, created a new governance structure, set of procedures, and funding authorities to improve the federal environmental review and authorization process for covered infrastructure projects. ## **PAYGO** The bill establishes a Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) requirement for executive branch actions that increase direct spending, as well as broad waiver authority for the Office of Management and Budget Director and protections against judicial review. The language is meant to prevent the federal government from being able to write regulations that will increase federal spending. The legislation asserts that whenever a federal department or agency is considering an action that is not required by law and would increase mandatory federal spending by more than $100 million in a year or more than $1 billion over a decade, the department or agency must also include a proposal that would decrease federal spending by the same amount. The requirement would expire on December 31st, 2024. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Fiscal%20Responsibility%20Act%3A%20How%20It%20Impacts%20Our%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** fiscal responsibility, fiscal responsibility act, permitting reform --- ### [ASCE Legislative Victory: STORM Act Signed Into Law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-legislative-victory-storm-act-signed-into-law/) **Published:** January 4, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[joint press conference](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B65866335-3947-4900-8b82-8b7ad13cdf69%7D_RRF_Press_Advisory_Dec_2020_1.pdf) held by ASCE, the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, President Trump signed into law the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act ([S. 3418](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/senate-bill/3418)) on January 1; both the House and Senate passed the bill on voice vote in December 2020. The Senate companion bill to the Resilience Revolving Loan Fund Act ([H.R. 3779](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3779)) was one of ASCE’s top legislative priorities in the 116th Congress. These bipartisan, bicameral bills were introduced by Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL) and Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) in the House and Sen. Gary Peters (D-MI) and Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) in the Senate. The success of this legislation would not have been possible without the hard work and advocacy of ASCE’s Key Contacts, who sent 582 emails to 190 Congressional offices this past fall. This law creates a new “resilience revolving loan fund” program modeled after similar water programs (the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds) and will spur investment ahead of future disasters. Led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), this new revolving loan fund will be eligible for projects intended to protect against wildfires, earthquakes, flooding, storm surges, chemical spills, seepage resulting from chemical spills and floods, and any other event deemed catastrophic by FEMA. These low-interest funds will allow for cities and states to repay the loan with savings from mitigation projects. It also gives states and localities the flexibility to respond to oncoming disasters without paying high-interest rates so they can invest in their communities – cutting the red tape of having to wait on the federal government. ASCE endorsed this bill because we believe it helps prioritize the nation’s need to build resiliently to withstand the growing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. According to the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)](https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/#:~:text=In%202020%20%28as%20of%20October,to%20affect%20the%20United%20States.&text=2020%20is%20the%20sixth%20consecutive,have%20impacted%20the%20United%20States.), the U.S. was impacted by 16 separate billion-dollar disasters in 2020 alone, including 1 drought event, 11 severe storm events, 3 tropical cyclone events, and 1 wildfire event. 2020 also marks the sixth executive year in which 10 or more separate billion-dollar disaster events have impacted our country. These disasters are costing our economy as much as 8 percent annually! However, as they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. For example, according to the National Institute of Building Sciences, every dollar spent on pre-disaster mitigation and preparedness saves six dollars in rebuilding costs after a storm. And according to a new study from the [Johns Hopkins University 21st Century Cities Initiative and American Flood Coalition](https://floodcoalition.org/press/afc-jhu-report/), every million dollars invested in flood infrastructure projects is associated with 40 new jobs in the construction and retail trade industries. That means every billion dollars invested could be associated with up to 40,000 new jobs across the country. With limited funding dollars available, designing and building resilient infrastructure ensures that our investments last, which is why there is value in incorporating system resiliency into the decision-making process. This new resilience revolving loan fund program will help cities that so desperately need the funding to invest in projects that reduce damage and minimize risks of these deadlier and more catastrophic disasters. ASCE thanks our Key Contacts for their tireless advocacy to advance this legislation, as well as for the support of Congress and President Trump to push it over the finish line! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Restoration%20of%20historic%20Virginia%20train%20station%20celebrated%20on%20latest%20Roadshow%20stop&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Restoration of historic Virginia train station celebrated on latest Roadshow stop** ![Main Street Station Richmond VA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Richmond-Main-St-Station-Exterior-400x314.jpg "Richmond Main St Station Exterior")Main Street Station Richmond VirginiaThe [Engineering and Public Works Roadshow](https://www.infrastructureroadshow.org/) came to [Main Street Station](https://mainstreetstationrichmond.com/) in [Richmond, Virginia](https://www.rva.gov/) on March 24th to celebrate the historic train station’s transformation into a multimodal transit center and event venue. The roadshow is a partnership between ASCE, APWA, and ACEC to highlight the meaningful, transformational work of engineers and public works professionals and to encourage people to pursue careers in engineering. The station was the second stop for the roadshow, which kicked off at the Port of Long Beach in California in November 2022. The landmark Main Street Station has been a part of Richmond’s historic downtown since 1901 but faced an uncertain future not too long ago. Fortunately, an extensive renovation over the last 30 years has given the station new life. The station’s renovation included restoring architectural features like marble floors and wooden beams to how they looked at the turn of the 20th Century. The station’s train shed is now an enclosed event venue the size of a football field that hosts trade shows, galas, weddings, and concerts. The renovation restored the station to its original purpose and more after decades of challenges and changes. In 1972, Hurricane Agnes caused extensive flooding along the James River and damaged the station. Amtrak left Main Street Station for the Richmond suburbs a few years later. Fires damaged the train station in 1976 and 1983. Main Street Station briefly reopened as a mall in 1985 and then was transformed into government office space in 1986. ![Sen. Tim Kaine speaks at Main Street Station in Richmond VA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Richmond-Main-St-Sen-Kaine-e1679949744788-400x395.jpg "Richmond Main St Sen Kaine")Sen Tim Kaine[Virginia Senator Tim Kaine](https://www.kaine.senate.gov/), who attended the event, talked about how the effort to restore Main Street Station started during his time as a city council member in Richmond in the early 1990s. The city purchased the building and surrounding land during Kaine’s time as Richmond’s mayor. Amtrak service returned to the station in 2003, and the transformation of the shed completed the $95 million revitalization project in 2018. Main Street Station is now a hub for mass transit in Downtown Richmond. Multiple Amtrak trains serve the station each day, connecting Richmond to the rest of [Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor.](https://www.amtrak.com/northeast-corridor) Main Street Station is also a stop on the [Greater Richmond Transit Company’s Pulse](https://ridegrtc.com/brt/) bus line, which provides high-frequency service to locations across the city. The Roadshow series highlights the economic benefits of investing in impactful infrastructure projects. Attendees heard from the [Virginia Passenger Rail Authority](https://vapassengerrailauthority.org/transformingrail/) and the [Federal Railroad Administration](https://railroads.dot.gov/) about how expanded Amtrak service in Virginia helps drive the Commonwealth’s economy and has the potential to help reduce congestion on Virginia’s most crowded highways like Interstate 95 and Interstate 64. They also highlighted how funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help build [new rail lines](https://vapassengerrailauthority.org/transformingrail/) and [bridges](https://vapassengerrailauthority.org/longbridgeproject/) to reduce congestion on train tracks operating near full capacity. ![ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Richmond-Man-St-Tom-Smith-e1679949650187-400x359.jpg "Richmond Man St Tom Smith")ASCE Executive Director Tom SmithASCE Executive Director Tom Smith highlighted the need to grow the infrastructure workforce as projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law create high-paying jobs across America. He told the crowd, “seeing something that stands the test of time and enhances the beauty of a city can lure students and young professionals into the world of STEM so that they, too, can one day say they contributed to the iconic building shaping their community.” Rehabilitating Main Street Station was a long and personal mission for many people involved with the project. Richmond Department of Public Works Senior Project Manager Jeannie Welliver called the restoration and renovation “a dream” for the people who had the vision to return the station to its original glory. She paid tribute to those who worked for years to get the project to the finish line. Welliver, along with several other people who held leadership roles in the Main Street Station project, received awards from Roadshow organizers [ASCE](https://www.asce.org/) (American Society of Civil Engineers), [APWA](https://www.apwa.net/) (American Public Works Association), and [ACEC](https://www.acec.org/) (American Council of Engineering Companies) for their contributions to the community. ![Representatives of ASCE, ACEC, APWA and people from the Main St Station Project Receive An Award](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Richmond-Main-St-Award-Crowd-1024x683.jpg "Richmond Main St Award Crowd") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Report%20Shows%20Rising%20Cost%20of%20Repairing%20the%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Dams&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F01%2Fijia-dams2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Report%20Shows%20Rising%20Cost%20of%20Repairing%20the%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Dams "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Report%20Shows%20Rising%20Cost%20of%20Repairing%20the%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Dams&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On April 14, 2023, the [Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) announced](https://damsafety.org/RehabEstimate) the release of a new report detailing the current cost of repairing and rehabilitating the nation’s non-federal dams. According to the report titled [*The Cost of Rehabilitating Dams in the U.S.: A Methodology and Estimate*](https://damsafety-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/files/2023%20ASDSO%20Costs%20of%20Dam%20Rehab%20Report.pdf) shows that the current cost of rehabilitating all non-federal dams in the United States is an estimated $157.5 billion, more than double ASDSO’s estimate form 2022. The study also determined that the cost of rehabilitating non-federal high hazard potential dams is $34.1 billion, a $10 billion increase from 2022. ASDSO was able to determine such a dramatic increase in cost using updated methodologies for estimating costs that accounted for the availability of more dam specific information, such as Condition Assessment ratings and the ages of dams. Additionally, ASDSO was able to refine its data by assessing various height categories for dams and updating project costs that account for increased engineering costs and costs for construction materials and labor. This allowed for more detailed analysis of more than 500 dam rehabilitation projects with cost ranges between $10,000 and $500 million. The report’s findings show that investment in dam safety and rehabilitation is needed at all levels of government. Without such investments and available funding streams, ASDSO says it will be increasingly difficult for dam owners to finance costly dam rehabilitation projects. The report also recommends increasing statutory authorities and investments to support state dam safety programs charged with overseeing more than two thirds of the nation’s dams, including those that pose the greatest hazard potential. Programs like the National Dam Safety Program and the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program provide funding to state state dam safety programs to support staffing and training needs, to conduct inspection and monitoring activities, and to support needed repairs to high hazard dams which would result in the loss of life in the event of a dam failure. ASCE strongly supports reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, whose authority is set to lapse on September 30th of this year and increasing funding for both the National Dam Safety Program and the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program. In 2021, ASCE’s *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* [gave the nation’s dams a grade of “D”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Dams-2021.pdf). To address the challenges facing dams and to increase the overall grade for dams, ASCE recommends fully funding the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program, increasing state funding for state dam safety programs, and ensuring state and federal agencies can provide adequate data on dams to assist policy makers in making timely funding decisions and promote greater public awareness. The findings in ASDSO’s report are likely to have a significant impact on ASCE’s next report card and will help to inform assessment of the nation’s dams as well as ASCE’s future recommendations for improving the nation’s dams. We look forward to working with ASDSO on improving dam safety, and determining the best path forward for raising the grade for the nation’s dams. 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To aid efforts to champion building resiliently, ASCE just released [***Pathways to Resilient Communities: Infrastructure*** ](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit.pdf)[***Designed for the Environmental Hazards in Your Region***](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit.pdf). ## ![resilient infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Pathways-to-Resilient-Communities-Pic.png "Pathways to Resilient Communities Pic")What Resiliency Resources Are Included? The toolkit guides civil engineers and community leaders across the country on how to ensure the widespread adoption and enforcement of up-to-date, modern building codes and standards in response to severe storms and other threats to infrastructure. The new toolkit features ASCE’s most widely adopted hazard-specific standards, including ASCE 7-22 *Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Building and Other Structures*, for threats to the built environment by region, including flooding, earthquakes, wind, hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, winter weather and more. The document also goes one step further and explains how each standard can benefit communities that are more vulnerable to particular hazards. In addition to highlighting ASCE’s standards, the toolkit highlights the Envision program, operated by the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure, and developed by ASCE, the American Public Works Association (APWA), and the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC). The Envision Program is a comprehensive tool which helps businesses and government design and build civil infrastructure that addresses climate change, public health, environmental justice, and the project’s economic benefits. Envision verification provides an evidence-based approach to demonstrate a project meets the community’s needs and expectations. ## How ASCE Is Promoting Resilient Infrastructure Strategies *Pathways to Resilient Communities* is just one in a series of steps that the Society has taken recently to provide resources that can benefit community and infrastructure resilience. Late last month, [ASCE 7-22 was given an update to its flood mitigation chapter](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/society-news/article/2023/05/25/asce-7-flood-loads-supplement), which will improve the expected performance of buildings and structures located in flood hazard areas by using the 500-year flood as its threshold, up from the 100-year threshold. The update — which is available in a supplement as a free download — is a significant revision of the design provisions in Chapter 5 to strengthen building resilience against the flood hazard. Over the upcoming months, ASCE will be sharing the new resilient infrastructure toolkit with policymakers at all levels of government and is encouraging ASCE members across the country to incorporate it in discussions that they are already having with community leaders on resilience. **Whether it’s your local building code official, state lawmakers, or your city or county leaders, this new resilience toolkit was developed to make it easy for a non-engineering audience to better understand how ASCE standards not only work, but how they can help communities build more resilient infrastructure!** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Dallas%E2%80%99%20Able%20Pump%20Station%20Recognized%20for%20Engineering%20Excellence&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, September 19, the [Engineering & Public Works Roadshow](http://www.infrastructureroadshow.org) series made its third stop, this time in Dallas, Texas, at the award-winning Able Pump Station. The Roadshow celebrated the sump station’s contributions to resilience and safety for a four-square mile area of Dallas that had been inundated with frequent flooding events for years prior to the facility’s construction, which finished in 2019. The roadshow is a partnership between the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org) (ASCE), the [American Public Works Association](http://www.apwa.org) (APWA), and the [American Council of Engineering Companies](http://www.acec.org) (ACEC) to highlight the meaningful, transformational work of engineers and public works professionals and to encourage students and young professionals to pursue rewarding careers in engineering and public works. ![Three professionals pose with glass gear-shaped trophies in front of a blue tiled wall and event banners.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1000003843-400x300.jpg "1000003843")From left to right Lance Ferland HDR Marsia Geldert Murphey ASCE President elect Sarah Standifer Director Dallas Waster Utilities“Flooding is the most common and most devastating form of environmental hazards,” said Marsia Geldert-Murphey, ASCE President-elect, stressing the need to protect against these events. The Able Pump Station, located on the south side of Riverfront Boulevard between the Houston and Jefferson Street viaducts, is designed to provide 100-year flood protection to approximately four-square miles of highly desirable land. The sump complex included nine separate and interconnected ponds that store stormwater, as well as two existing pump stations, constructed in the 1930s and 1950s, with a combined capacity of 220,000 gallons per minute. To help prevent the loss of life as a result of flooding, the City of Dallas hired HDR to design the new Able Pump Station, which increases the pumping capacity nearly fourfold, to 875,000 gallons per minute. It also lowers the 100-year flood elevation from 399.0 to a design elevation of 392.5 feet, a 6.5-foot difference. This difference in flood elevation has opened 128 square acres for commercial development that was previously ineligible for development due to flooding risks. At the press conference, U.S. Rep. Marc Veasey, Dallas Water Utilities Interim Director Sarah Standifer, HDR North Texas Water Business Group Manager Lance Ferland, and the leaders of ACEC, APWA and ASCE offered comments on the importance of projects like the Able Pump Station. ![Speaker at a podium giving a presentation at an engineering roadshow, blue tiled wall backdrop and media camera recording nearby](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1000003818-400x300.jpg "1000003818")Tom Smith ASCE Executive Director“Protecting the health and safety of American communities is a top priority of civil engineers, and the Able Pump Station in Dallas is a good example of infrastructure projects working to provide better security and peace of mind for Texas families and businesses,” said ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith. ACEC estimates 82,000 new engineers will be needed to fulfill the mandate of the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Projects like the Able Pump Station should inspire the next generation of the engineering workforce to pursue this rewarding career and help create more facilities with similar impacts. As the federal government continues to implement this monumental legislation, the second year of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will not be fully realized without an expanded and robust workforce. It is imperative that students nationwide are educated on the rewarding careers of civil engineering and public works so that these professions have the necessary staffing to complete transformative projects. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Dallas%E2%80%99%20Able%20Pump%20Station%20Recognized%20for%20Engineering%20Excellence&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Texas **Tags:** flooding, resilience, stormwater, sump --- ### [Vermont State Report Card: Civil Engineers Give Vermont’s Infrastructure a “C” Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vermont-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** February 16, 2023 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** 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Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/) in Montpelier. The report included nine infrastructure categories, and overall, Vermont earned a grade of “C”, the same grade as the 2019 Vermont state report card. That grade means Vermont’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention but is a step ahead of the national average of “C-” given in the [*2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). Civil engineers graded Vermont’s aviation (C), bridges (B-), dams (C), drinking water (C), energy (C+), roads (C+), solid waste (C+), stormwater (C-), and wastewater (D+). The release event was held inside the Vermont statehouse and included several leaders from across Vermont, including: - U.S. Representative Becca Balint - Ann Gammell, P.E., Chief Engineer at the Vermont Agency of Transportation - Julie Moore, P.E., Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources - Jennifer Fitch, P.E., Commissioner of Vermont’s Department of Buildings and General Services. A team of nearly 20 civil engineers from across Vermont spent hundreds of hours analyzing key elements of the state’s infrastructure to come up with the grades and determine what is needed to maintain and improve infrastructure systems across the Green Mountain State. ![Members of the Vermont section of ASCE at the release of the 2023 Report Card for Vermont's Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/VT-RC-Release-Photo-400x300.jpg "VT RC Release Photo")Bernie Sanders (D-VT) said: “Infrastructure is the backbone of our communities and our economy. Yet year after year, Washington has underinvested in our aging, essential structures. While Vermont is in better shape than many other states, we still have a long way to go. A ‘C’ grade is not good enough to me and it is not good enough for Vermont. That’s why I fought hard to pass the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in our last Congress – the most significant infrastructure bill since the creation of the interstate highway system in the 1950s – and ensure Vermont got its fair share.” ## The Vermont State Report Card and Infrastructure Improvements The report card found that funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), mentioned above by Senator Sanders, is providing a much-needed temporary boost in funding for infrastructure systems across the state, but long-term funding solutions are still needed. One example is funding for bridges. Vermont’s 2023 budget saw a 27% increase in bridge funding thanks to the BIL. Over the last five years, Vermont has also been successful in decreasing the number of bridges in poor condition from 5% to 2.4%. However, with many aging bridges, the need for maintenance and repairs will continue to grow. Like all other states, Vermont is also seeing the consequences of extreme weather and climate change, which are outside the conditions when much of the state’s infrastructure was built. Vermont has adapted its stormwater requirements for new developments in order to better handle runoff from heavy rain events. Finally, Vermont has aggressive goals for the environment with both power and solid waste, but the state faces challenges as they aim to reach those goals. Vermont imports three times as much power as it produces, which makes electricity expensive for homes and businesses. While nearly all the power from Vermont is generated from renewable sources, lack of transmission capacity means much of the power generated isn’t able to be distributed throughout Vermont and the rest of New England. Vermont is also trying to increase recycling and reduce the amount of solid waste put in landfills or burned. However, as the amount of solid waste put in landfills decreases, so does the amount of funding for landfills. The Vermont section of ASCE will use the state report card to advocate for better infrastructure investment at the Vermont General Assembly and at ASCE’s legislative fly-in in Washington next month. ### You can read the complete Vermont Infrastructure Report Card [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/). 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Statehouses](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/licensure-bills-picking-up-steam-in-statehouses/) **Published:** February 17, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Licensure%20Bills%20Picking%20Up%20Steam%20in%20Statehouses&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Licensure%20Bills%20Picking%20Up%20Steam%20in%20Statehouses "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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The licensure reform movement has been active for several years, with its first significant success in 2019 when Arizona Governor Doug Ducey (R) signed into law the nation’s first universal recognition [bill](https://www.azleg.gov/legtext/54leg/1R/bills/HB2569H.pdf) for licensed occupations. Since that time other threats to licensure have emerged in the form of different policy proposals including: - Proposals to eliminate specific licenses – ranging from barbers to landscape architects and engineers. - Proposals to eliminate or cut funding for licensing boards. - Both legislation and executive orders that attempt to implement “least restrictive” licensing requirements. ASCE endorses, supports and promotes the professional licensure of engineers with appropriate standards for education, experience, examination, continuing professional development, and professional conduct to protect and enhance the health, safety and welfare of the public. Additionally, ASCE believes it is the duty of government to protect the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens. The purpose of statutes regulating professional licensing of engineers is to fulfill this duty by qualifying individuals who have met appropriate education, experience, and competency standards for licensure and who follow ethical practices. For this reason, ASCE is committed to effective licensure and is working to combat bills that would weaken licensure and put public safety at risk. Unfortunately, in the past several weeks, ASCE has been tracking legislation in several states that would threaten professional licensure. This includes [several bills](https://www.asce.org/state-legislative-tracking/) in Arizona, West Virginia, Mississippi, Minnesota, Florida, Missouri, Idaho, New Hampshire, Kansas and Wyoming. Particularly troubling are efforts in Arizona and West Virginia. In Arizona, S.B. 1304 would effectively eliminate the role of government in professional engineering licensure. In short, the bill, as currently written, would eliminate the role of the Arizona State Board of Technical Registration with regard to Registered Professional Civil Engineers and move those responsibilities to “a corporate organization”. Meanwhile, S.B. 1062, would redefine an engineer as any person who “by reason of engineering education, training, and experience may apply engineering principles and interpret engineering data.” The bill also deems a person an engineer if they represent themselves to the public as a professional engineer by a verbal claim. By effectively allowing unlicensed people to practice at the same level as registered professional engineers, [S.B. 1062](https://www.azleg.gov/legtext/55leg/1r/bills/sb1062p.htm) puts public safety at risk. The bill was recently approved by the Senate and may soon be considered by the House. In West Virginia, [H.B. 2007](https://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/bills_text.cfm?billdoc=HB2007%20SUB.htm&yr=2017&sesstype=RS&i=2007) would allow for the universal licensing of professional engineers, allowing engineers to work in West Virginia without approval from the state board and ignoring the fact that professionals can [already practice easily across](http://www.responsiblelicensing.org/licensed-to-move-a-guide-to-interstate-practice/) state lines. Under this bill, West Virginia’s occupational licensing boards would be required to issue licenses to individuals with valid licenses from other states who have had those licenses for more than one year and the person’s licenses are in good standing in the state they are coming from. The person seeking the West Virginia license would still need to apply to the respective state licensing board and pay a fee. The bill is currently under consideration in the House. In good news, a similar bill in Mississippi that would have required the state to recognize licenses obtained in another state, failed earlier this month. That bill would have required licensing boards to issue a license for professions without new testing or training if a person held a license in good standing from another state for at least a year. To help combat these threats, in 2019 ASCE became a founding member of the [Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing](http://www.responsiblelicensing.org/valuing-professional-licensing-in-the-u-s/) (ARPL). ARPL members include the professional societies like ASCE, as well as the national licensing boards for engineers and surveyors, architects, landscape architects, and CPAs. Through ARPL, ASCE is promoting a responsible, balanced approach to professional licensing, advocating for practices within professions that deliver uniform qualifications, standards, safety, and consistency, while also providing individuals with a clear career path and fair opportunities to pursue and maintain that career. ASCE will continue to work with our national partners to promote balance licensure legislation across the country that not only protects public safety but promotes [economic equity](http://www.responsiblelicensing.org/valuing-professional-licensing-in-the-u-s/) in these highly technical professions. 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The increasing funding gap, potholes and deteriorating bridges, power outages – the list seems overwhelming. But engineers don’t dwell on these problems – they offer solutions. To celebrate innovation in the engineering field, the [ASCE](http://www.asce.org/) just designated 13 new *Infrastructure Gamechanger*s—groundbreaking infrastructure projects and programs that represent the latest advancements in transportation, water and energy infrastructure that are transforming the way engineers plan, build and adapt to the nation’s infrastructure needs. Following these new additions, 40 states are now represented by a *Gamechanger* that meet at least one of these criteria: innovative technologies, creative funding mechanisms, trend-setting standards, and unique collaborations between agencies or private firms. “Our nation’s infrastructure just received a ‘C-‘ in ASCE’s 2021 [*Infrastructure Report Card*](http://infrastructurereportcard.org), which is not the type of grade you want to bring home,” said ASCE President Jean-Louis Briaud, Ph.D., P.E. “Promoting innovative practices, principles and projects are one of the ways in which we can improve this grade. With resources stretched thin, finding solutions that can make the most of the tools afforded us can be a challenge, but is an essential component of improving the built environment. This year’s *Gamechangers* are a testament to the forward-thinking nature of the engineering community.” The latest additions to ASCE’s *Infrastructure Gamechangers* are: - **Amtrak’s new Acela train** has increased its speed by 10 miles an hour – up to 160 mph — which is expected to trim 15 minutes off a trip between D.C. and Boston. Additionally, the new trains can carry 380 passengers, 25% more than current fleets, while using 20% less energy. The $2.4 billion modernization effort continued throughout the pandemic, keeping much-needed jobs alive during the crisis. - **Arizona Department of Transportation’s (ADOT) I-10 Dust Detection and Dynamic Response System** was put in place to mitigate the significant role dust storms play in crashes and fatalities along the I-10 stretch between Phoenix and Tucson. A combination of short-range dust gages and a long-range weather radar dish that can detect dust storms from over 40 miles away feed into a closed-circuit camera system. ADOT can then dynamically slow speed limits and update message boards to keep drivers safe through adverse conditions. - **Atlanta, Georgia startup RanMarine’s “WasteShark” drone** travels through waterways to collect litter, biomass, microplastic and other debris using a basket underneath the device. In addition to removing litter, the drone also collects data on water conditions. Sensors allow the WasteShark to analyze water temperature, pH levels, depth, green algae, or hydrocarbons in oil. - **Cary, North Carolina flood prediction monitoring system** is set to save the flood-prone town millions of dollars in unnecessary damages. The town partnered with SAS and Microsoft to create a system which uses wireless sensors and rain gauges to detect water rising in local sources, which is then transmitted to a database where officials can see expected water level rise based on the current data. Once transmitted, the town uses an Internet of Things platform to send alerts to all local departments so that preparations can be made to mitigate floods. - **Columbus, Ohio Smart Circuit autonomous shuttle bus** is a free service which covers a downtown route (the Scioto Mile) and a route in the Linden neighborhood in northeastern Columbus. The vehicle seats 15-passengers and can serve up to 90 passengers per hour. The city’s Scioto Mile route was one of the first of its kind when it was unveiled in 2018, and the more recent Linden Mile route opens the door for more neighborhood environment autonomous shuttles. - **Hillsboro, Oregon In-Pipe Hydroelectic Project** converts excess water pressure to carbon-free electricity and is the first renewable energy project that features In-PRV smart water technology. The groundbreaking technology is expected to generate anywhere from 185,000 to 200,000 kWh of electricity per year, which will be used for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and a local recreation center. Installation of this technology will reduce more than 162,000 pounds of carbon annually – or the equivalent of 240,000 driven miles off the road every year. - **Indiana Department of Transportation’s (INDOT) Concrete Sensors** allow the agency to better understand exactly how far along concrete is in the maturation process. By leaving the sensors within the concrete for an extended period, engineers can study the effectiveness of their work over time, as opposed to the conventional testing period of just 28 days. This also will communicate to INDOT when concrete needs to be replaced. - **Long Ridge Energy Terminal in Hannibal, Ohio** has transitioned to running on carbon-free hydrogen by way of blending hydrogen in the gas stream, allowing the plant to burn 100% green hydrogen over the next decade. This is the first hydrogen-burning power plant in the U.S. and the first that blends hydrogen in its gas turbine in the world. Long Ridge teamed with GE Power for the $588-million project to use an H-class gas turbine, which can initially burn 15% to 20% hydrogen before transitioning to 100% hydrogen over time. - **Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Clean Peak Energy Standard (CPES),** the first CPES in the nation, is designed to provide incentives for utilities to use clean energy technologies that supply electricity or reduce demand during seasonal peak demand periods. The Energy Storage Association (ESA) said the reduction in infrastructure costs should save ratepayers $710 million over the next decade and reduce carbon emissions by 560,000 metric tons in the first 10 years. - **Michigan Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) autonomous boat-like device EMILY** is used to inspect bridge scour beyond what is usually possible during human dives. MDOT partnered with the Great Lakes Engineering Firm on the small EMILY device, which uses cameras and sonar technology to investigate bridge scour before determining if a crew member needs to get in the water. ![Woman in a white hard hat and high-visibility vest examines a tablet at a busy shipping yard with stacked containers in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Port_Optimizer1-400x267.jpg "Port_Optimizer1")Port optimizer program courtesy of the Port of Los Angeles - **Neo, by California-based TechniSoil Industrial,** is a recycled road substance created by blending recycled plastics with reclaimed asphalt pavement. The company mills the existing roadway and mixes a polymer-infused substance with the reclaimed pavement, and then immediately re-paves the recycled substance, known as Neo, back onto the road. Neo uses 150,000 plastic bottles per lane mile to create a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, a decrease of 84 truckloads per mile of hauling waste asphalt out and new asphalt in, and provides the opportunity for same-day returns to traffic. The Neo roadways are expected to last three times longer than asphalt and are about five times as strong as traditional materials. - **North Dakota Department of Transportation’s (NDDOT) Autonomous Impact Protection Vehicle** is used to protect construction crews from other drivers on the road who may not be paying attention to the construction site or have lost control of their vehicle. In 2019, 234 work zone related crashes occurred on North Dakota highways, resulting in 64 injuries and two fatalities. Usually driven by a human, this vehicle is remotely controlled by a crew member without any other crew members inside to reduce potential risks. - **Port of Los Angeles’ Port Optimizer program** created a single tool for the many port stakeholders, including shipping lines, marine terminals, motor carriers, and railroads to tap into when looking for operational improvements. The Port of Los Angeles is the largest container port in the nation and one of the largest in the world, so an efficient operation is key to the regional economy. Productivity is estimated to grow 8-12% as throughput is improved, operations predictability becomes the norm, and customers receive an average of 14 days of advance visibility. These projects are just a sample of the incredible innovations happening in the industry that can help address the challenges our systems face across the country, which were outlined in the 2021 [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/J2y_COY57zfAOr3piEdUqG?domain=infrastructurereportcard.org), released March 3, 2021. The Report Card assessed 17 categories of infrastructure and assigned a cumulative GPA of ‘C-‘, a modest improvement from the ‘D+’ given in 2017. For more information on ASCE’s *Infrastructure Gamechangers*, go to [https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/gamechangers/](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/Xo4nCPN51Ac46AQKs03ZlV?domain=infrastructurereportcard.org). 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Unveils%20Newest%20Infrastructure%20Gamechangers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Broadband, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** clean energy, energy infrastructure, hydropower, innovation --- ### [President Biden Details FY23 Budget](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-biden-details-fy23-budget/) **Published:** March 31, 2022 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2023, which begins on October 1st. Historically, president’s budget requests offer a glimpse at the Administration’s priorities, however it will be incumbent on Congress to develop a final package over the upcoming months. Overall, the FY23 budget request totals $5.8 trillion, with $1.64 trillion in discretionary spending. The discretionary spending request is a 9 percent increase over the $1.5 trillion enacted in the just passed FY22 omnibus and is broken out with $829.2 billion in non-defense spending and $813.3 billion in defense spending. While the non-defense spending represents a 14 percent increase from FY22, the defense spending represents just a 4 percent increase and will likely be adjusted by Congress. The budget request also seeks to build on some of the successes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act by increasing funding for both the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation. Throughout the budget, climate change remains a theme, with a total of $45 billion requested across the federal government to prepare and respond to extreme weather events, include $18 billion for climate resilience programs and $17 billion for climate research. However, the budget does avoid any specific funding request for President Biden’s signature Build Back Better legislation. The Biden Administration estimates that the budget would result in a $1.3 trillion decrease to the deficit. The budget request would implement a 15 percent minimum tax on corporate profits, increase the overall corporate tax rate to 28 percent, and create a 20 percent minimum tax on households worth more than $100 million. These tax changes, and others, are estimated to net $2.5 trillion over the next decade if they were to be implemented. With the President’s budget for FY23 now available, Congress can now kick off the budget cycle for the upcoming fiscal year and budget hearing already began earlier this week. A breakdown by agency is below: ## **Department of Transportation** The budget requests $105 billion in for the **Department of Transportation (DOT)**, including about $27 billion in discretionary funding. When combined with the $36.8 billion in advance funding provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), budget authority totals about $142.3 billion. This figure represents an increase from the $140.7 billion in budget authority enacted for FY22. Included under the increase in discretionary programs is: - $17.9 billion for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), a substantial increase from FY22’s $3.3 billion appropriation. This total includes $7.4 billion for Amtrak; - $21.1 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), a 26% increase from the $16.2 billion included in the FY22 spending bill. Of that total, $4.5 billion would go toward Capital Investment Grants (CIG); - $23.6 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), including $11.9 billion for operations and $17.5 million to address aircraft certification reform legislation. - $230 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program, a decrease from the $234 million included in the FY22 omnibus legislation. - $1 billion for the new National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure formula program created by the IIJA. - $1.3 billion for the new Carbon Reduction program, which was also created by the IIJA. In keeping with the administration’s emphasis on equity, the budget requests $110.7 million for the Thriving Communities program, which focuses on building capacity in disadvantaged communities, and $350 million for the Rural Surface Transportation Grant program. Unlike some other plus ups in the budget, increased funding at the Department of Transportation is already supported by the IIJA and therefore the increased funding levels should also have support from Congress. ## **Environmental Protection Agency** The President’s budget requests a $2.6 billion increase for the **Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)**, bringing the agency’s funding up to $11.9 billion for FY23 if enacted. This includes $4 billion dedicated to water infrastructure programs. These funds will support efforts to upgrade drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, creates 20 new targeted water grant programs, and provides a $160 million increase for the Reducing Lead in drinking Water grant program. More specifically the EPA budget request includes: - $2.765 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds, equal to the enacted level; - $5.73 billion for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants, which is $1.38 billion above the enacted level; - $ 126 million to address PFAS, which is $57 million above the enacted level; and - $80 million for the EPA’s WIFIA program, which is $10.5 million above the enacted level. ## **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers** The FY23 budget request calls for $6.6 billion for the **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)**, which is less than the $8.3 billion included in the FY22 spending package. This baseline number is meant to complement the $17 billion investment for ports and inland waterways included in the IIJA. The proposal would provide $1.7 billion for the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, $35 million for flood control and coastal emergencies, $407 million for restoring Florida’s Everglades. The budget request outlines objectives such as increasing resiliency to climate change and advancing equity and environmental justice. The budget invests in helping communities identify risks linked to climate change and improving the resiliency of USACE’s infrastructure. Additionally, the budget invests in technical assistance, studies, and projects to address water resources challenges in disadvantaged communities, a priority which aligns with the administration’s Justice40 Initiative. ## **Department of Energy** The **Department of Energy’s (DOE)** budget request is $48.2 billion, which is $3.3 billion above the enacted level. This follows an $81 billion five-year investment in DOE programs through IIJA. The budget request provides $4 billion for DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, including $90 million for a new Grid Deployment office to build a more reliable and resilient energy grid which will increase utilization of renewable energy sources. It also provides $9.2 billion for clean energy research, development, and demonstration which will support transmission and distribution technology for clean energy, improve energy efficiency in industry and buildings, and utilize the capabilities of national laboratories, universities, and business to achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The request for the **Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science** is $7.8 billion, at 4% increase of the final FY 2022 of 7.5 billion. The bulk of the increase will go to the biological and environment research (BER) program, a 10.9% boost, to $904 million. BER funds DOE’s work on climate modeling and simulations. ## Department of the Interior** The Department of the Interior’s budget allocation is $18.1 billion in FY23, an increase of $2.9 billion above the enacted level. This includes $5 billion for climate adaptation and resilience programs to address the challenges created by climate change. These investments include $1.5 billion for wildfire management programs, and $675 million for Western water infrastructure to strengthen drought resilience. The National Park Service (NPS) would receive $3.6 billion, a $492.5 million increase above the enacted level, including more than $1.2 billion for repair, rehabilitation, and construction projects, and $6.9 million to improve NPS bandwidth and network capacity. ## **Science Agencies** The President’s budget request is asking for a 19% increase at the National Science Foundation (NSF), a 9.6% boost for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 4.5% more for the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Office of Science, and a 5% hike for NASA’s science missions. Climate change and boosting sustainable energy technologies rank high among Biden’s research priorities. The budget request for the **National Science Foundation (NSF)** sends a clear message to Congress: he supports pending legislation to revamp and increase support for the agency. The $10.5 billion he has proposed for 2023, a 12% increase over the $8.8 billion final FY 2020, is consistent with aspirational spending levels in pending America COMPETES legislation, which is intended to help to the United States outcompete China and the President has urged Congress to complete. The request also revives NSF’s plan to spend $200 million on ten regional innovation engines. Twice the size of NSF’s current engineering and science centers, the new centers are designed not just to advance emerging technologies, but also address the workforce and economic needs of various regions of the country. This year’s spending bill encourages NSF to start one center, from existing funds. The plan would also grow by more than one-third the annual size of NSF’s flagship graduate training program, increasing the number of new graduate research fellowships (GRFs) from 2000 to 2750. The **National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)** would get a big boost to both its research and industrial programs by expanding funding to $1.47 billion, a 38% increase of the final FY 2022 of $1.23 billion. Included is $100.6 million for NIST’s Cybersecurity and Privacy activities, an increase of $20.1 million, to strengthen the security through foundational and applied cybersecurity research and developing publicly available frameworks, standards, and technical guidance. For FY 2023, the Administration is requests is $6.8 billion for the **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)**, an increase of $1.4 billion in the final FY 2022 budget and would represent the largest budget in the agency’s history if approved. This budget increase is designed to allow NOAA to engage a broader scope of decision-makers from the federal to the local level and allow them to implement climate resiliency and adaptation measures. For example, the request includes an additional $350 million to implement President Biden’s Executive Order entitled *Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad*. Additionally, NOAA will be able to help invigorate new sectors of our economy through enhanced climate, satellite, and ocean data, as well as ensure that all communities are able to utilize and benefit from our products and services. The request for the **National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)** $26 billion, the largest request for science in the space agency’s history. The figure is 8% more than the FY 2023 enacted federal spending levels. Included is $8 billion for the agency’s science directorate, a 17% boost for the earth sciences program, to $2.4 billion. Within that, the budget for the Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, Ocean Ecosystem satellite to study marine plankton and clouds would grow by 38%, to $113 million, in preparation for a 2024 launch. The Administration proposes $1.7 billion fiscal year 2023 budget for the **U.S. Geological Survey** **(USGS)**. The request is an increase over the enacted FY 2022 budget of $1.6 billion and is designed to promote the USGS’s ability to deliver science that addresses the climate crisis, contributes to the Nation’s economic growth, and supports the science needs of our underserved communities. ## Department of Education** The Administration’s FY 2023 budget request includes $88.3 billion for the **Department of Education**, an $11.9 billion increase over the FY 2022 enacted amount of $76.4 billion. The proposal increases K-12 direct education programs by 15.6%. This includes increases to a number of science-technology-engineering-mathematics (STEM) grant programs. The increase also includes those targeted a college students including Increasing the Pell Grant, investing in student retention and completion programs, and investing in underserved students by providing $487 million for the Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), $83.1 million in Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and $627.6 million in Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs); and providing a $450 million investment to expand research and development infrastructure at four-year HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Biden%20Details%20FY23%20Budget&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [Investing in Aging Water Infrastructure: Exponential Potential and the Cost of Inaction](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/investing-in-aging-water-infrastructure/) **Published:** August 27, 2020 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Investing%20in%20Aging%20Water%20Infrastructure%3A%20Exponential%20Potential%20and%20the%20Cost%20of%20Inaction&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A hidden network of pipes and pumps ensure water flows through homes and businesses, but people often take these critical systems for granted. This month, our organizations, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Value of Water Campaign (VOW) partnered on a new economic report that quantifies water infrastructure investment and what happens when the nation fails to invest. With the research firm EBP, we sought to understand two contrasting futures: a future where we meet our water infrastructure needs and a future where we allow water infrastructure investment to fall further and further behind. Our report “[The Economic Benefits of Investing in Water Infrastructure: How a Failure to Act Would Affect the US Economy Recovery](http://www.uswateralliance.org/sites/uswateralliance.org/files/publications/The%20Economic%20Benefits%20of%20Investing%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure_final.pdf)” shows that closing the water investment gap brings enormous economic benefits and improves public health protection. As federal lawmakers consider how best to alleviate economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and protect public health, it is critical they understand the role water plays in keeping communities safe and healthy and our economy flowing. Before modeling future scenarios, we first had to assess where the US stands on water infrastructure spending and needs. We found that in 2019, total capital spending on water infrastructure was $81 billion short of the need. If the nation continues underinvestment, a funding gap will remain. The annual gap will grow to $136 billion by 2039. As capital needs continue to grow, the share of investment borne by the federal government has plummeted. In 2017, the federal government provided just four percent of capital investment in water and wastewater infrastructure, down from 31 percent in 1977. State governments and individual water utilities must bear the remaining share of rising capital investment needs. ## **Future Scenario 1: Failure to Act** When we modeled what the next two decades would look like if we continued current underinvestment trends, we found that no industry is immune to water disruptions. The most water-reliant businesses will spend $250 billion in 2039 on costs related to water service disruptions. Less reliable water service would make industries less efficient and profitable, and the consequences would ripple across the entire economy, leading to more than $4.5 trillion in lost business sales, a $2.9 trillion decline in the gross domestic product (GDP), and 636,000 fewer jobs. Individual households and communities would also endure the consequences of underinvestment as more frequent and extreme weather inflict shutdowns, and street flooding deteriorating and rupturing water infrastructure. Without proper infrastructure investment, there will be greater costs to US households. At the current rate, costs will be seven times higher in 20 years than they are today, totaling $14 billion in 2039. ## **Future Scenario 2: Closing the Gap** In the second scenario, we modeled the impacts on households and the economy if the nation meets the capital water infrastructure needs. New infrastructure projects would mean new jobs, especially in construction. Completing those water projects creates a more reliable water service, meaning better productivity and efficiency in other sectors. Over 20 years, closing the water infrastructure gap would create 800,000 new jobs and generate higher wages—the disposable income would rise by more than $2,000 per household. The entire economy would benefit: the US GDP would grow by $4.5 trillion in 20 years. As legislators continue to debate stimulus packages to offset the economic costs of the Covid-19 pandemic, this research suggests that failing to include capital water infrastructure investment is a lost opportunity to jumpstart the economy when the nation needs it most. The 20th century used infrastructure investment as a driver for economic growth and public health protection, and future investment should build on 20th-century lessons and emphasize water and wastewater infrastructure resiliency, efficiency, and reliability. Investing in water will create healthier communities that can thrive and a path to economic recovery for the nation. 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Its 2022 Infrastructure Report Card While Making Strides on Roads and Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/illinois-earns-c-on-its-2022-infrastructure-report-card-while-making-strides-on-roads-and-transit/) **Published:** April 29, 2022 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Illinois%20Earns%20C-%20on%20Its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20While%20Making%20Strides%20on%20Roads%20and%20Transit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Thursday, April 28, the Illinois Section of ASCE unveiled its 2022 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure, the state’s first report card since 2018. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “C-”, which is on par with the national grade of “C-.” A “C-” grade means the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. The report analyzes 11 categories of infrastructure pertinent to Alabama: aviation (C+), bridges (C), dams (C+), drinking water (D+), inland waterways (D), ports (C-), rail (C+), roads (D+), stormwater (D+), transit (D+) and wastewater (C-). Illinois Section President Andrew Walton and IL report card chair Patrick Lach revealed the findings to an in-person audience at Chicago’s Union Station. Speakers included Senator Ram Villivalam, Transportation Committee Chair, Illinois Senate; Senator Donald DeWitte, Minority Spokesperson, Illinois Senate; and Omer Osman, Secretary, Illinois Department of Transportation. ![Speaker at a wooden podium presenting to a panel of five men in a grand hall, with a large projection screen beside him showing the Illinois infrastructure launch.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Andy-Presentation-380x400.jpg "Andy Presentation")ASCE Illinois Section President Andrew Walton presenting report findingsAs a major hub for our nation’s infrastructure, Illinois has taken considerable steps to improving its transportation and infrastructure networks and several major categories showed improvements – notably transit and roads. This report underscores that Illinois’ freight network remains among the most robust in the nation and plays a critical role in the local and national economies. Nowhere else in the country do all seven Class I railroads converge and operate, and in 2019, Illinois ranked 9th nationally among the states in total tonnage of waterborne freight, and third in domestic tonnage. Proven especially true during the COVID-19 crisis, Illinois’ infrastructure afforded stability that helped offset supply chain challenges when it was strained most. The state has continued to prioritize critical investments for the sectors that move goods and services; Aviation (C+), Inland Waterways (D), Ports (C-) and Rail (C+). The results of this could not be clearer as all these categories were able to maintain and, in some cases, improve their grades since 2018. Illinois’ communities and water agencies are making progress, but the state continues to have one of the largest shares of lead service pipelines in the nation, impacting residents who rely on these systems for clean drinking water. Out of 4 million total service lines, over 675,000 have been identified as lead and almost 380,000 as copper with lead solder services. While efforts from Congress and the Illinois EPA are addressing these service lines to protect residents, grant programs must be accelerated to improve conditions at a faster pace. Illinois’ aging drinking water infrastructure is leading to leaking pipelines, costing taxpayers money and critical resources. In 2017, a total of 106 million gallons per day (MGD) were lost amongst Lake Michigan allocation permittees, or 13% of total water supplied. Additional funding is also needed for aging stormwater infrastructure that must keep up with increasing rainfall trends from climate change. Transit and roads both receiving a “D+” were able to show notable increases. These systems have stabilized and begun to improve thanks in large part to Rebuild Illinois, despite most of the funding not taking effect yet. The percentage of state-maintained highways in excellent condition grew 5.2% in 2020 when compared to 2019. In 2021, the state raised its gas tax to 39.2 cents per gallon and its diesel tax to 46.7 cents per gallon, which will contribute to future growth. Through the federal bill and Rebuild Illinois, operating budgets for transit systems are also expanding. For example, in 2022, Metra (commuter trains) is budgeting operating expenses of $900 million, which is $100 million or 12.5% higher than in 2021. 101 out of Illinois’ 102 counties offer transit service, and 57 public transit operators and providers supported an estimated 600 million trips in 2019, the second largest public transportation system in the U.S. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, including the recommendation for increased focus on workforce development, the lead service line problem, aging stormwater infrastructure and continued investments in Illinois’ multimodal freight network to accelerate progress across the rail, ports, inland waterways and roadway network. To view the report card and all eleven categories evaluated, visit <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/Illinois/>. 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innovation, lead pipes, MTA, resilience, roads, stormwater, transit --- ### [National Park Service Celebrates Engineers Week with an Aqueduct Restoration Project that Connects NPS Engineers with our Nation’s First Engineer](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/national-park-service-celebrates-engineers-week-with-an-aqueduct-restoration-project-that-connects-nps-engineers-with-our-nations-first-engineer/) **Published:** February 21, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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is [National Engineers Week](https://www.discovere.org/our-programs/engineers-week), which celebrate how engineers make a difference in our world. This is a guest post by David Engelstad, P.E, who works for the [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/index.htm). In the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, [parks received a grade of ‘D+.’](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/)* What better construction project can you be assigned to than one that connects you to our Nation’s first engineer, George Washington. National Engineers Week is celebrated to coincide with George Washington’s birthday on February 22nd in honor of America’s first engineer, but he was also instrumental in a new transportation technology, the canal system, that provided much needed infrastructure for the development and growth of our new country. The National Park Service, in honor of our Nation’s first engineer, is helping to [archive America’s historic engineering records](https://www.nps.gov/hdp/haer/) and to restore historic infrastructure to help tell the story of our Nation’s rich engineering past, which present day engineers can study and learn from. The rehabilitation of the historic Conococheague Aqueduct is one project that connects this rich engineering past, telling the story of our Nation’s early transportation development from horse and cart on dirt roads, to canal barges towed by mules, to steam engines on railroad tracks, with each new transportation technology allowing larger quantities of commodities to be moved more efficiently. ![Black-and-white photo of a boat moored beside a ruined arched bridge, with people gathered along the riverbank and on the bridge above.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1920-Barge-Accident-400x288.jpg "1920 Barge Accident")1920 Barge Accident spandrel parapet walls failurecollapse![Black-and-white photo of a boat moored beside a ruined arched bridge, with people gathered along the riverbank and on the bridge above.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/1920-Barge-Accident-400x288.jpg "1920 Barge Accident")1920 Barge Accident spandrel parapet walls failurecollapseAlong with his more known title – “father of our country,” George Washington is also considered to the “father of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.” During his lifetime, Washington devoted much time and energy to the project of building a canal along the Potomac River. During Washington’s first job as a surveyor of wilderness in Virginia, he realized the greatest obstacle to western expansion, farming, and development in the fertile Ohio Valley was poor internal travel. A canal had never been attempted in American but he became convinced that a water route was possible. In 1784, just after the Revolutionary War, Washington resumed his efforts to promote a canal to be built around the Potomac’s worst obstacles, thus the start of the Potowmack Canal Company, which later in 1820 was transferred to the Chesapeake and Ohio Company. ![Historical line drawing of the Conococheague Creek Aqueduct reconstruction showing a long wooden timber bridge crossing a waterway labeled Conococheague Creek.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Aqueduct-Rendering-HAER-400x241.jpg "Aqueduct Rendering-HAER")Sketch rendering of proposed Conococheague Aqueduct Rehabilitation based on HAER drawingSituated midway in the nearly 185-mile historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, the Conococheague Aqueduct is the second largest of the 11 aqueducts built in the canal system. Built in 1835, and withstanding mortar bombing during the Civil War, the masonry Conococheague Aqueduct channel wall collapsed duringa cargo barge impact in 1920, causing major failure of the masonry spandrel and parapet walls, with the barge falling 20 feet to Concocheague Creek below. It was repaired hastily with timber outriggers structure/planking to allow the aqueduct to be placed back in operation in March 1920. The canal company went bankrupt in 1924 due to competition with the newly built railroad system, a newer technology that became the favored mode of transportation of the day. The NPS [Conococheague Aqueduct Rehabilitation Project](https://www.nps.gov/choh/planyourvisit/conococheague-groundbreaking.htm) will perform specialized engineering work that preserves the historic character while meeting modern building performance goals. This project completion date 2019, will again allow boats to cross over the Conococheague Creek via a watered aqueduct, providing visitors and budding engineers a unique experience of being able to enjoy an interpretive boat tour bridging the present to the historic past. 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**Categories:** News, Public Parks, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Engineers Week, infrasrtucture, National Parks, parks --- ### [Innovations in Infrastructure: Necessity is the mother of invention](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/innovations-in-infrastructure-necessity-is-the-mother-of-invention/) **Published:** August 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Fortunately, cities around the nation have started utilizing technological solutions to help alleviate some of these mounting transportation frustrations. A few ways engineers and manufacturers will be able to ameliorate these problems through traffic signal synchronization, talking cars and future road construction, as illustrated in this infographic on “[Technology and the Future of America’s Infrastructure](http://automotive.electronicspecifier.com/around-the-industry/the-infrastructure-of-tomorrow)”. one example of how this is happening right now is in [Los Angeles](http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/02/us/to-fight-gridlock-los-angeles-synchronizes-every-red-light.html?_r=0), where magnetic sensors were set up across the city to send real-time traffic data to a central command, which adjusts the timing of traffic signals based on congestion. This process took more than 20 years to complete, but has reduced travel times by 12 percent while increasing average speeds by 16 percent. Cities like [San Francisco](http://sfpark.org/how-it-works/the-sensors/) and [Seattle](http://shenconsultinginc.com/?page_id=412) are implementing electronic signs and sensors to reveal available parking spaces in order to help alleviate parking space related congestion. In [Pennsylvania](http://www.penndot.gov/Pages/all-news-details.aspx?newsid=243), the Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has created a new web application called Traffic Signals Asset Management (TSAMS), a pre-populated database that consolidates information about 8,700 traffic signals located on state routes to improve the management of traffic signals. Recently the U.S. [DOT announced](https://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/using-technology-make-transportation-more-accessible) its commitment to using technology to make transportation more accessible through programs like the [Accessible Transportation Technologies Research Initiative (ATTRI)](http://www.its.dot.gov/research_archives/attri/index.htm), which seeks technology-based solutions to improving transportation accessibility and mobility. Each of these innovative steps forward are promising to the future of our nation’s transportation system. To read more about innovative solutions across different infrastructure sectors, check out ASCE’s [\#GameChangers](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Introduces%20Legislation%20on%20the%20Clean%20Water%20State%20Revolving%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")It was an exciting week for the [Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF](https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf))! The CWSRF is a federal infrastructure program that provides low-interest loans to states – requiring a 20% state match – for wastewater and stormwater infrastructure improvements. Since 1987, the CWSRF has loaned $42 billion to 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, allowing states to leverage over $126 billion in wastewater infrastructure improvements. The CWSRF is the primary![Low-angle view of a flooded street with muddy water on the left and clear water with grass on the right, trees in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/4931563472_bbc21a9839_b-400x266.jpg "DSC_1883") source of federal assistance for states and communities to construct, repair, and replace our nation’s network of wastewater and stormwater systems. Our nation’s wastewater and stormwater treatment facilities provide a critical service in protecting public health and the environment. However, these infrastructure systems are aging and face a growing fund gap. ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* gave our nation’s [wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) a “D+,” and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) [estimates that $271 billion will be needed](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-01/documents/cwns_2012_fact_sheet_final_01_14_16_0.pdf) for wastewater infrastructure over the next 20 years. It is expected that 56 million new users will be connected to centralized wastewater treatment centers in the coming years, which will require the construction of 532 new systems by 2032. ASCE supports robust legislation that invests in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure, which is why we are proud to endorse the bipartisan [Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2019](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/chairs-defazio-napolitano-reps-young-katko-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-address-wastewater-infrastructure-challenges) ([H.R. 1497](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1497/text)). This legislation was introduced by House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Chair of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources & Environment, Rep. Grace Napolitano (D-CA), along with Reps. John Katko (R-NY), and Don Young (R-AK). This bill reauthorizes the CWSRF for $20 billion over five years, funds non-point and point source water pollution control programs, and creates pilot programs to promote stormwater best management practices and resiliency. Also this week, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Water Resources & Environment held a hearing entitled [“The Clean Water State Revolving Fund: How Federal Infrastructure Investment Can Help Communities Modernize Water Infrastructure and Address Affordability Challenges.](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/the-clean-water-state-revolving-fund-how-federal-infrastructure-investment-can-help-communities-modernize-water-infrastructure-and-address-affordability-challenges)” ASCE submitted a [Statement for the Record](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record_TI-CWSRF-Hearing_3.7.19_FINAL.pdf) outlining clean water infrastructure priorities. In his opening remarks, Ranking Member Bruce Westerman (R-AR) called for an “all-hands-on-deck approach to reserve the decline of our nation’s infrastructure,” including searching for new funding sources, increasing public-private partnerships (P3s), improving federal regulations, focusing on innovative technologies, and EPA implementation of its integrated planning initiative. The hearing also asserted the need to address water affordability to so disadvantaged communities and low-income resident do not face undue financial hardship. Last Congress, [ASCE endorsed](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-480---water-infrastructure-and-facilities-construction-funding/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-11-02-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) the bipartisan [Low-Income Water Customer Assistance Programs Act of 2018](https://www.cardin.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/cardin-wicker-announce-new-legislation-to-assist-people-struggling-with-rising-water-bills) ([S. 3564](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3564)), which establishes pilot programs for low income residents to receive aid in paying their drinking water or wastewater utility bill and helps the utilities that service them. The bill also requires the EPA to conduct a study on the cost and best methods of transitioning from a pilot program to a nationwide program. ASCE is actively working with the bill’s authors, Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) to get the bill reintroduced this Congress. ASCE is pleased that Congress has highlighted the importance of robust investment in our nation’s wastewater and stormwater infrastructure systems and the need for innovative affordability mechanisms. We look forward to working with Congress to close the wastewater infrastructure funding gap. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Introduces%20Legislation%20on%20the%20Clean%20Water%20State%20Revolving%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, clean water, Clean Water State Revolving Fund, stormwater, wastewater --- ### [Senate Appropriations Committee Releases FY 2023 Spending Bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-appropriations-committee-releases-fy-2023-spending-bills/) **Published:** August 3, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Releases%20FY%202023%20Spending%20Bills&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F04%2FUS-Cap.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Releases%20FY%202023%20Spending%20Bills "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Releases%20FY%202023%20Spending%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Late last week, amid a flurry of pre-recess activity, the Senate Committee on Appropriations released all 12 of their [Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 spending bills](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/majority/breaking-chairman-leahy-releases-fiscal-year-2023-senate-appropriations-bills). The nearly $1.7 trillion appropriations package includes $653 billion in non-defense discretionary spending, marking a 10.1% increase over FY 2022 levels, and $850 billion in defense discretionary spending, an 8.7% increase over FY 2022 levels. ASCE continues to closely track the FY 2023 appropriations process. The Senate’s spending bills come shortly on the heels of the House of Representatives passing a [package](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-7-22-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=66448&elqTrackId=13F2E200AAC50827670014800C937F7C&elq=f5bae236fca34da9a26f56351f2c15d1&elqaid=29057&elqat=1) of six federal funding bills for FY 2023 by a [220-207](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-7-22-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=66449&elqTrackId=23724BDFA49E7D4FDAD82C349305A50F&elq=f5bae236fca34da9a26f56351f2c15d1&elqaid=29057&elqat=1) vote. Markups on the Senate package are not expected until after the August recess. A stopgap measure to continue government funding levels into the fiscal year that begins October 1st remains a strong possibility as lawmakers on both sides of the aisle negotiate spending totals. Here’s a closer look at the Senate spending bills: ## 2023 Spending for Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development The [Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/THUD%20FY%2023%20Summary.pdf) provides $106.6 billion in total budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation, which is $2 billion more than the FY 2022 enacted level. An additional $36.8 billion in advance appropriations was provided to DOT by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) for FY 2023. Highlights of the Senate’s transportation spending bill include: - $3.2 billion from the general fund for the Federal Highway Administration, which is $715 million more than FY 2022. This would support additional funding for Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) Formula Program grants, tribal high-priority projects, bridge formula funding, and the development of the Appalachian Development Highway System. - For Federal Railroad Administration programs, some $2.6 billion is included for Amtrak, which is $269 million more than enacted in FY 2022 and $253 million more than what was included in the House bill. Funding will support operations across 30 train routes to over 500 destinations in 46 states. Also included were $535 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program ($95 million less than the House bill) and $200 million for the Federal-State Partnership for State of Good Repair program ($355 million less than the House bill). - $2.51 billion was designated for the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grants program, some $262 million more than FY 2022. However, this amount is $501 million below the House-passed bill. - $3.06 billion was marked for Federal Aviation Administration’s facilities and equipment, which is $167 million more than FY 2022 and $160 million more than the House bill. This funding should address the FAA’s backlog of facilities and towers and modernize the air traffic control system. - The Maritime Administration’s Port Infrastructure Development Program was designated $234 million, an amount equal to FY 2022 and $65.7 million less than the House bill. - The Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant program would receive $1.09 billion, some $315 million more than the House bill. ## 2023 Spending Bill for the Interior and Environment The [bill for the Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Interior%20FY%2023%20Summary.pdf) provides $53.2 billion in total funding, a figure that is larger than the one included in the House bill, which provided $44.8 billion. Highlights of the Senate bill include: - $10.6 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), an increase of $1.1 billion from the previous fiscal year’s enacted level, but a decrease compared to the $11.5 billion provided in the House bill. - Funding for major investments in clean water, including $2.8 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds. This amount is broken down into $1.68 for the CWSRF and $1.17 billion for the DWSRF. The total figure is on par with the $2.8 billion for Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds included in the House bill. - Nearly $75 million was designated for innovative water infrastructure loans through the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), which is less than the House bill’s $80 million. However, the $75 million is $5 million above ASCE’s request. - $1.29 billion was assigned for the EPA’s Superfund program, which is slightly less than the $1.31 billion included in the House bill. - $96 million would go toward brownfields grants, which is less than the House bill’s $131 million for brownfields cleanups and $154 million below ASCE’s request. - $3.6 billion would go to the National Park Service, which is equal to the House request and $800 million above ASCE’s request. - Funding is also provided for one of the IIJA-authorized water infrastructure programs included in the House bill. Specifically, the bill designates $5 million for the Alternative Water Source Grants Pilot Program, which was provided $10 million in the House bill. - $13 million goes toward establishing two new water grant programs to address tribal water resources and establish a pilot program for alternative water sources. ## Energy and Water Spending Bill The [Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Energy%20%20Water%20FY%2023%20Summary.pdf) proposes $57.5 billion in total funding, which is slightly more than the $56.2 billion included in the House bill. The bill would fund the Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works program at $8.7 billion, which is $415 million more than last year but $130.7 million less than the House companion bill. Highlights for the Corps include: - $2.16 billion for construction, some $33 million below the enacted level, and $540 million below ASCE’s request. The House bill provided $2.47 billion for this purpose. - Zero funds for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. - $10 million for Corps WIFIA, which is $2.8 million above the enacted level and ASCE’s request. This figure is also larger than the $7.2 million included in the House bill. - No additional funds were included for National Levee Safety Program. ASCE requested $54 million. - $500,000 was designed for the National Inventory of Dams, which meets ASCE’s request. The bill includes $49.3 billion for the Department of Energy, which is a little more than the $48.2 billion included in the House bill. This figure includes $362 million for the Electricity Account, which funds the Office of Electricity and Grid Deployment – an increase from the $350 million included in the House bill. ## The Commerce, Justice, and Science Spending Bill The [Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) appropriations bill ](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/CJS%20FY%2023%20Summary.pdf)provides a total of $85.83 billion in discretionary funding. This amount is $10.05 billion more than the 2022 fiscal-year-enacted level and on the same level as the House Appropriations. This spending bill includes funding for: - **National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)**: The Senate would provide a total of $1.7 billion, an increase of $468 million, or 38%, above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. This is above the $1.5 billion in the House bill and in keeping with funding levels authorized in the CHIPS and Science Act. - **National Science Foundation (NSF):** The Senate would fund $10.34 billion, a $1.5 billion, or 17%, increase above the 2022 fiscal-year-enacted level. This is above the $9.6 billion in the House bill, but not up to the $11.8 billion authorized for FY 2023 in the CHIPS and Science Act. This funding includes $8.3 billion for NSF research and related activities, an increase of $1.16 billion, and includes funding for the new Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. NSF’s education and training programs would be funded at $1.3 billion, an increase of $321 million. This includes a more than $95 million increase to NSF programs that advance equity in science and engineering. - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The Senate would fund NOAA at $6.5 billion, which is an increase over the $5.8 billion approved for FY 2022, but below the House number of $6.8 billion. Included in the total is research funding at $776 million, an increase of 20%. This includes a $33 million, or 17%, increase for climate research and an increase of $20 million for high-performance computing upgrades that are critical for climate modeling. ## Spending Bill for Homeland Security The [Subcommittee on Homeland Security appropriations bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Homeland%20FY%2023%20Summary.pdf) proposes $81.9 billion in total funding, which is less than the $85.6 billion included in the House bill. Highlights include: - $9.7 million for the National Dam Safety Program, which is equal to enacted levels. There was no line item for this in the House bill. - $12 million for the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program (the same as enacted). The IIJA provided $585 million over five years. There were no funds included in the House bill. - Zero funds for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program ($275 million were enacted). ASCE will continue monitoring these government spending bills as the legislation makes its way through Congress. In particular, we hope that both the Senate and House understand the critical need for adequate funding across the board for improving and modernizing America’s infrastructure. Investing in our infrastructure is a continued investment in American jobs and the health of our economy. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Releases%20FY%202023%20Spending%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Public School Investment Included in Moving Forward Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/public-school-investment-included-in-moving-forward-act/) **Published:** June 24, 2020 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Act](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Section%20by%20Section%20HR%202%20The%20Moving%20Forward%20Act.pdf), includes the text of the [Reopen and Rebuild America’s Schools Act](https://edlabor.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-democrats-introduce-hr-2-the-moving-forward-act) which would authorize $130 billion over five years to fund infrastructure improvements for the Nation’s public schools. The Act would prioritize high-poverty schools with targeted funding for inadequate facilities that endanger the health and safety of students and educators. ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Schools-Final.pdf) gave our nation’s schools a D+ noting that the nation continues to underinvest in school facilities, leaving an estimated $38 billion annual gap. The Reopen and Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2020 would: - Authorize an Investment of $100 billion in grants and $30 billion in bond authority targeted at high-poverty schools with facilities that pose health and safety risks to students and staff; - Create over two million jobs based on an Economic Policy Institute analysis that each $1 billion spent on construction creates 17,785 jobs; - Allocate 2020 program dollars on an emergency basis to aid in safely reopening public schools in line with Centers for Disease Control (CDC) public health guidelines—such as for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; - Develop a comprehensive national database on the condition of public school facilities noting that such a national database currently does not exist and would provide much-needed insight into the condition of our public schools; and - Expand access to high-speed broadband to ensure that public schools have the reliable and high-speed Internet access they need for digital learning. In support of the inclusion of the Reopen and Rebuild America’s Schools Act into the Moving America Forward Act, House Democratic leaders noted that crumbling school facilities pose significant health and safety threats to more than 50 million students and three million teachers in public schools. Without major repairs, many school districts will struggle to meet reopening guidelines established by the CDC. Bill sponsor’s cited a June 2020 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on the state of school infrastructure which found that 54 percent of school districts across the country must replace or update major systems in more than half of their buildings. One of the main conclusions of the GAO report was that 41 percent of school districts reported the need to update or replace heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in half their schools. In guidance to school districts, CDC advises that ensuring “ventilation systems operate properly” is a key consideration for schools seeking to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Bill sponsors also noted that the GAO report was the first on the subject since 1996. This echoed the concerns raised by ASCE in the *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* which also noted a lack of ongoing data collection on the status of the nation’s schools. This lack of comprehensive data at the national, state, and even local level creates a challenge for school decision makers as they seek to fund, plan, construct, and maintain quality school facilities. ASCE is pleased that the Moving Forward Act contains significant investments to our nation’s public schools. Since the first ASCE Infrastructure Report Card in 1998, ASCE has identified and advocated the importance on investing in the Nation’s public schools’ infrastructure. 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‘Infrastructure Week,’ President Trump held an event this morning on permitting reform at the U.S. Department of Transportation. President Trump, joined by Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao and Secretary of Interior Ryan Zinke, met with heads of state departments of transportation and then [addressed](https://www.c-span.org/video/?429744-1/president-delivers-remarks-department-transportation) a group of transportation officials and stakeholders. President Trump reiterated his commitment to fixing the nation’s infrastructure and named the existing infrastructure project approval process as a major impediment to that goal, saying “one of the biggest obstacles to creating this new and desperately-needed infrastructure…is the painfully slow, costly and time-consuming process for getting permits and approvals to build.” President Trump is not alone in this view. Secretary Chao has repeatedly said over the last several months that “money is not the problem” when it comes to improving the nation’s infrastructure and instead cutting red tape to speed up the approvals process is the most important thing for restoring the nation’s infrastructure systems. Last month the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee held a [hearing](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/5/infrastructure-project-streamlining-and-efficiency-achieving-faster-better-and-cheaper-results) on the topic, where Chairman John Barrasso (R-MT) called for simplifying the government review process and making it more flexible to meet the different natures of rural and urban states. However, Ranking Member Tom Carper (D-DE) pushed back on the Secreatary Chao’s comments, declaring lack of funding the biggest impediment to infrastructure improvements and calling for the full implementation of changes to permitting laws passed in recent legislation before Congress takes further action. Almost everyone agrees the federal infrastructure approval process is a long way from perfect, but there are strongly contrasting ideas about how to improve it. The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) requires federal agencies to consider the environmental effects of an action and to involve the public in their decision-making process. The law is a frequent target of criticism from some sectors because it can add years to a project. Congress has tried to fix the pain points in several recent pieces of legislation. The FAST Act included new procedural requirements aimed at ensuring early collaboration and efficient environmental reviews for complex infrastructure projects including: the use of a single NEPA document as much as possible with one agency serving as lead and ensuring the review meets the needs of the other agencies; requiring a schedule to be a part of a project coordination plan; and creating a publicly accessible [dashboard](https://www.permits.performance.gov/) to publish the status of NEPA and permitting for all projects requiring an environmental impact statement or environmental assessment. MAP-21 and the Water Resources Development Act also included permitting reforms, but these reforms have not been fully implemented yet. [A Department of Transportation Office of the Inspector General report](https://www.oig.dot.gov/sites/default/files/DOT%20Implementation%20of%20MAP-21%5E3-6-17.pdf) from March found that the streamlining provisions in the FAST Act have possibly delayed the improvements expected from the streamlining measures in MAP-21. This should give Congress pause as they contemplate more permitting reform, as the already approved reforms have not had the opportunity to be tested yet. ASCE has [called for](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-427---regulatory-process-for-infrastructure-development/) mandating concurrent reviews by agencies; a single administrative permitting agency to shorten and improve the approval process and improve inter-agency collaboration; and time limits for decisions on infrastructure projects. To some extent these reforms have all been included in recent legislation (particularly the FAST Act), but their effect is not yet clear. Today President Trump announced the creation of a new council to help project managers navigate the permitting process including the creation of a new online dashboard. He also announced the creation of a new office within the White House Council of Environmental Quality “to root out inefficiency, clarify lines of authority, and streamline federal, state and local procedures so that communities can modernize their aging infrastructure without fear of outdated federal rules getting in the way.” While it is obviously too early to know the effect of the Administration’s new efforts to streamline the permitting process, it’s assertion that regulations, not funding, are the real problem in infrastructure ignores the true infrastructure challenges we face. A 2012 [Congressional Research Service report](http://environment.transportation.org/pdf/proj_delivery_stream/crs_report_envrev.pdf) questioned the degree to which the NEPA compliance process is a significant source of delay, noting “causes of delay that have been identified are more often tied to local/state and project-specific factors, primarily local/state agency priorities, project funding levels, local opposition to a project, project complexity, or late changes in project scope.” [A 2016 report prepared for the U.S. Treasury](https://www.treasury.gov/connect/blog/Documents/final-infrastructure-report.pdf) on proposed major infrastructure projects stated, “A review of the 40 transportation and water infrastructure projects…suggests that they face four major challenges to completion: (a) limited public resources, (b) significantly increased capital costs, (c) extended program and project review and permitting processes, and (d) lack of consensus among multiple public and private sector entities. A lack of public funding is by far the most common factor hindering the completion of transportation and water infrastructure projects.” ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded the nation’s infrastructure a D+ and estimates that $4.59 trillion in infrastructure investment will be necessary from federal, state, local, and private sources between 2016 and 2025 to reach a state of good repair and earn a grade of B. However, only just $2.5 trillion is likely to be invested, leaving a $2.0 trillion funding gap. The investment gap led ASCE to make the first key solution of the Report Card [increased investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/); no amount of streamlining and expediting alone will close the infrastructure investment gap and solve our infrastructure challenges. The Report Card also recommends streamlining the permitting and approval process, but the goals of such changes should to be provide greater clarity to regulatory requirements, bring priority projects to reality more quickly, and secure cost savings. Attempts to shorten the permitting and approval process should not come at the expense of public health, public safety, and the environment. While we should continue to strive for an efficient and effective federal approval process, addressing the nation’s infrastructure needs requires investing real money in our communities. 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has been focused the past few months on working with ASCE members to press Congress to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), over $550 billion in new investments for physical infrastructure assets from roads to water systems to our electric grid and more. During our outreach and conversations with Members of Congress and ASCE members, we wanted to set the record straight before the House vote on frequently asked questions and misconceptions about IIJA. ## **Myth:** The bill is only 10% – 30% infrastructure. **Facts:** The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) will go a long way towards raising the grades and improving conditions identified in [ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/2moYCn5NZjCGLBMDI9LGoq?domain=infrastructurereportcard.org) by focusing firmly on infrastructure projects. **In fact, the bill is 100% infrastructure-related spending and addresses all 17 sectors that ASCE graded in the 2021 Report Card.** Unlike early proposals from President Biden, the IIJA does not include social programs like child and elder care, or any other non-traditional infrastructure. The bill represents $1.2 trillion for the nation’s core, physical infrastructure, including $559 billion of new infrastructure spending. In other words, the $1.2 trillion includes things like the regular reauthorization of the FAST Act and the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds (traditional infrastructure), while the $559 billion is plus ups across all infrastructure categories. The new spending includes: - Roads and Bridges; - Rail and Transit; - Power Reliability and Grid Modernization; - Broadband Deployment; - Drinking and Wastewater Infrastructure; - Natural Disaster Prevention and Mitigation; - Airport Improvements; - Dam Safety; - School Modernization; - Ports and Inland Waterways Investments. **— ## **Myth:** Only $559 billion of $1.2 trillion is actually infrastructure. **Facts:** Only $559 billion is *new* infrastructure spending. The remaining $650 billion is **existing spending** from trust funds, like the Highway Trust Fund, with dedicated funding that is automatically raised, such as through the gas tax, and automatically allocated toward pre-existing programs. These trust funds operate on an ongoing basis and would continue with or without the IIJA, making it somewhat misleading to add it into the total cost of the bill. **— ## **Myth:** The bill is all traditional highway spending and business as usual for infrastructure investment. **Facts:** The IIJA makes historic investments across all categories of infrastructure, ranging from roads and bridges, to broadband, water, ports, airports, inland waterways, dams, the grid, rail, and transit. The IIJA is also a critical step in the fight against climate change and creating more resilient infrastructure to guard against the effects increasingly hazardous conditions. The bill moves the United States closer to a target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, strengthens infrastructure in the face of increasingly strong and destructive storms, and strengthens and protects the most impacted communities. Through the creation of new programs that prioritize the resilience of our nation’s infrastructure, as well as investments is existing programs like the Resilience Revolving Loan Fund and FEMA’s BRIC program, the IIJA is taking a long-term view of our infrastructure assets. **—** ## **Myth:** This bill will increase inflation. **Facts:** This is an investment *over multiple years* on infrastructure assets that will benefit our economy for decades. Addressing real hard infrastructure needs will not fuel inflation. Additionally, American families and businesses are already feeling the economic impacts from NOT investing in our infrastructure. ASCE’s recent [Failure to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resources/failure-to-act-economic-reports/) report found that American households are spending an additional $3,300 annually due to aging infrastructure systems, while businesses are set to lose $2.4 trillion in exports over the next 20 years. Many economists believe that a that a focused infrastructure bill, like the IIJA, could help address rising consumer costs by boosting the supply side of the economy and making it less costly for businesses to operate. A recent [economic study](https://www.artba.org/economics/iija-impact/) by the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) found that the IIJA will contribute an additional $488 billion of cumulative Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2027 and create about 200,000 jobs annually. Finally, ARTBA’s report found that corporations and the government will increase revenues due to the IIJA, with corporations gaining on average $17 billion annually, while the government would gain on average $60 billion annually due to the increased federal tax base. By acting now, we can mitigate the harm to our GDP and declining personal income. **— ## **Myth:** The bill is linked to Democrats’ $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill. **Facts:** While initially Democrats discussed passing the infrastructure bill and a larger reconciliation bill in tandem, those bills have been decoupled, which allowed for 19 Republican Senators to join Democrats when the bill passed in the Senate. At this time, the House remains committed to take up the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act on Monday, September 27th, fulfilling a promise that Speaker Pelosi made to moderate House Democrats in August. Meanwhile, Democrats $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation bill, which includes many of the social programs that President Biden include in his Build Back Better agenda, is still be negotiated and will not be ready for a vote in the House next week. Therefore, support for the IIJA does not automatically mean support for the budget reconciliation bill as the two packages will be separate and distinct votes. **— ## **Myth:** There is no urgent need to pass the IIJA. **Facts:** Without action, surface transportation programs will expire on September 30th. Currently, the continuing resolution that has been passed by the House and will be under consideration in the Senate, does not include an additional extension of surface transportation programs. A five-year surface transportation reauthorization is included in the IIJA and therefore that bill will need to pass before September 30th to keep ensure that state highway projects are not temporarily halted. This week ASCE signed onto a[ letter](https://www.dropbox.com/s/ykg17p93r82goly/IIJA%20Support%20Letter%20House%20Final.pdf?dl=0) with over 110 other organizations to the U.S. House of Representatives supporting the IIJA. The investments included in the IIJA would create good-paying jobs through project construction in the short term and provide improved safety and mobility for people and goods for decades to come in every single state. [Take action today](https://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/onestep-write-a-letter?5&engagementId=511444) and tell your U.S. Representative why they should support the IIJA. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Myths%20And%20Facts%3A%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20%26%20Jobs%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [Happy 60th Birthday, Interstate Highway System!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/happy-60th-birthday-interstate-highway-system/) **Published:** June 29, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Happy%2060th%20Birthday%2C%20Interstate%20Highway%20System%21 "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2FASCE_interstate-highway-system.jpg&description=Happy%2060th%20Birthday%2C%20Interstate%20Highway%20System%21 "Pin it with 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D. Eisenhower signed the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956 and in doing so created the Interstate Highway System (IHS). President Eisenhower explained the necessity of an interstate system in a 1955 [statement](https://www.eisenhower.archives.gov/research/online_documents/interstate_highway_system/1955_02_22_Message_to_Congress.pdf) to Congress: “Together, the uniting forces of our communication and transportation systems are dynamic elements in the very name we bear—United States. Without them, we would be a mere alliance of many separate parts.” Now encompassing 47,000 miles of roadway, the IHS runs through all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Interstates have transformed the way we move goods and people in the U.S. In 1919, then Lt. Colonel Eisenhower traveled in an 80-vehicle military convoy from Washington, DC to San Francisco. The trip took 62 days, inspiring him to create the system. Today that same drive could be completed in about three days. The Interstate Highway System cost approximately $500 billion to build (in 2016 dollars), but America’s investment has paid off – literally. The system has returned more than six dollars in economic productivity for each dollar that it cost. ## Economic Benefits of the Interstate Highway System The Interstate Highway System (IHS) did more than just make travel easier. Over the decades, it has dramatically and positively impacted our economic growth. According to the [American Road & Transportation Builders Association](https://www.artba.org/2021/06/28/americas-economy-rides-on-interstate-highways/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=americas-economy-rides-on-interstate-highways) (ARTBA), the Interstate Highway System has been a fundamental force in raising America’s gross domestic product from $3 trillion to $19 trillion (as of 2021). Industries that rely on the system include hotels & hospitality, restaurants & fast food, convenience stores and gas stations, and tourism. Since the interstate system was launched, traffic has increased by over 400%. Twenty-six percent of all vehicle miles traveled are attributed to the IHS, but “75 percent of truck freight” is carried across IHS roads. ## The Future of the Interstate Highway System Today’s America would have been unimaginable to President Eisenhower, and the country will likely continue changing in ways we can’t fathom over the next 60 years. Whatever the future holds, the one thing that’s always needed is money. Funding for the Interstate Highway System has been flat for years, allowing for basic maintenance but little innovation. At current funding levels, it will be impossible for the interstate system to modernize and meet the needs of our growing country. The ARTBA report notes how far behind we are in maintaining and improving our interstate roads: - While interstate roads paved in the 1950s and 60s were only expected to last 20 years, over one-third of the IHS is more than 50 years old. - Over one-third of IHS bridges need repair or replacement. - In 2019, congestion on interstate highways cost $9 billion dollars. In order to invest sufficiently in the Interstate Highway System, Congress needs to overhaul and modernize its federal funding source — the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). The HTF is primarily funded by an 18.4 cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline. This rate has not increased since 1993, meaning inflation has cut its value by 40% over the last 23 years. As advancements in fuel efficiency continue, drivers will need to buy gas less often, further reducing the HTF’s income. As electric vehicles grow in popularity, drivers will pay almost no taxes to maintain the roads and bridges they drive on. We’ll need a new way to add revenue for the Highway Trust Fund. One alternative funding mechanism is a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) fee. This fee would be assessed on each vehicle owner based on how many miles they’ve driven. Some proposals call for modifying the fee so that heavier vehicles like semi-trucks (which do more damage to roads) would pay more. [Mileage-based fees are currently being tested ](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/revenue/road_pricing/defined/vmt.aspx)in several states. VMT fees could provide stable revenue for the HTF, which in turn would allow for adequate investment in the future of the Interstate Highway System. Happy birthday, Interstate Highway System! We wouldn’t be here without you. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Republicans%20debut%20energy%20and%20permitting%20reform%20package&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, House Republicans formally introduced the [Lower Energy Costs Act](https://www.speaker.gov/hr1/#:~:text=in%20your%20browser.-,H.R.,infrastructure%20and%20grow%20our%20economy) (H.R. 1). This comprehensive [legislative package](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1/text) is aimed at increasing American energy production and enacting permitting reform to reduce regulatory burdens associated with the development of infrastructure projects. By designing the Lower Energy Costs Act as H.R. 1, Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) has signaled that the package is House Republicans top priority for the 118th Congress. The bill proposes fast-tracking the approval process for American energy production on federal lands, expediting hardrock mining, repealing the natural gas tax to make it easier to transport and export American natural gas, and expediting the permitting process for critical projects. Additionally, the bill proposes reforming the [National Environmental Policy Act](https://www.epa.gov/nepa/what-national-environmental-policy-act) (NEPA) and provides for a streamlined permitting process for all federally impacted projects. The Lower Energy Costs is being led by House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), along with House Committee on Energy and Commerce Chair Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Committee on Natural Resources Chair Bruce Westerman (R-AR), and Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Chair Sam Graves (R-MO). The package includes provisions that fall under the purview of each of these committees, including measures to expand natural gas exports, reduce limits on hydraulic fracturing, and express disapproval of President Joe Biden’s executive action canceling permitting for the Keystone XL pipeline. Among the bills included in H.R. 1 are: - [H.R. 1121](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1121), the Protecting American Energy Production Act (Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC)), which would prohibit a moratorium on the use of hydraulic fracturing. - [H.R. 1070](https://www.congress.gov/118/bills/hr1070/BILLS-118hr1070ih.pdf#:~:text=H.%20R.%201070%20To%20amend%20the%20Solid%20Waste,the%20Environ-mental%20Protection%20Agency%2C%20and%20for%20other%20purposes.), a bill to streamline permitting for refining critical materials (Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA)). - [H.R. 1085](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1085/text?s=1&r=11), the Researching Efficient Federal Improvements for Necessary Energy Refining (REFINER) Act (Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH)), which aims to identify ways to increase U.S. refining capacity in order to lower gas prices. - [H.R. 1355](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1335/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22TAPP+American+Resources%22%7D), the Transparency Accountability, Permitting, and Production of (TAPP) American Resources Act of 2023 (Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR)), which aims to minimize delays for hardrock mining projects on federal land by extending existing permitting efficiencies to mineral development and reforming NEPA to further energy and infrastructure development. - Included in the TAPP American Resources Act is the Building U.S. Infrastructure through Limited Delays and Efficient Reviews ([BUILDER](https://www.eeia.org/post/Builder_Act_1-pager.pdf)) Act ([H.R. 2515](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/2515?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22builder%22%5D%7D&s=8&r=5)), which modernizes NEPA to make infrastructure project reviews more efficient. This bill is sponsored by Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA). - [H.R. 1152](https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/1152), the Water Quality Certification and Energy Project Improvement Act of 2023 (Rep. David Rouzer (R-NC)), which would streamline the permitting process under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. The Lower Energy Costs Act marks Congress’s latest attempt to enact changes to permitting reform. Last August, Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Chairman Joe Manchin (D-WV) announced he had struck a deal with Congressional leadership to take up energy infrastructure permitting reform legislation in exchange for supporting the climate change and clean energy package that became known as the Inflation Reduction Act. In September, Manchin released the text of a comprehensive bill known as the [Energy Independence and Security Act](https://www.energy.senate.gov/2022/9/manchin-releases-comprehensive-permitting-reform-text-to-be-included-in-continuing-resolution), which included a two-year time table for environmental reviews of major projects under NEPA, a 150-day statute of limitations for court challenges to project authorizations, and—like the Lower Energy Costs Act—required that a single environmental document prepared by a designated lead agency be utilized for project reviews and authorizations. The proposal, however, failed to garner enough support from either side of the aisle in the Senate and was ultimately not considered. At the same time, Manchin’s Republican colleague from West Virginia, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, introduced an alternate permitting reform legislation entitled the [Simplify Timelines and Assure Regulatory Transparency (START) Act](https://www.capito.senate.gov/news/press-releases/capito-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-comprehensive-regulatory-and-permitting-reform-legislation). Many of the provisions in the START Act provided the basis for several provisions in the Lower Energy Costs Act. This includes codification of the Trump Administration’s 2020 NEPA rule, which set deadlines for environmental reviews to between one and two years, expands agency authority to issue categorical exemptions to environmental assessments, and allows agencies to not consider the impact of infrastructure projects on climate change. Both bills would also set a two-year deadline for all NEPA reviews on projects, and allow a lead agency to issue a single environmental review document. In several respects, the Lower Energy Costs Act takes a more measured approach to permitting reform than the START Act. While the START Act set a 60-day deadline for court challenges to project authorizations, H.R. 1 doubles that time frame to 120 days. And while the START Act explicitly granted states sole authority to regulate hydraulic fracturing, H.R. 1 expresses a sense of Congress that this responsibility should be left to the states. The House is [expected to begin consideration](https://rules.house.gov/news/announcement/announcement-hr-1-lower-energy-costs-act) of the Lower Energy Costs Act during the week of March 27. While ASCE has not taken a position on H.R. 1, [ASCE supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps562---national-environmental-policy-act) “a balanced approach to the NEPA process that streamlines the permitting and approval process for infrastructure projects, but not at the expense of a science-based evaluation and determination of impacts to the environment.” Additionally, consistent with H.R. 1, [ASCE also supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps427---regulatory-process-for-infrastructure-development) the designation of a lead agency to streamline and improve permitting approval processes, as well as time limits for all reviews and decisions for infrastructure projects. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Republicans%20debut%20energy%20and%20permitting%20reform%20package&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, Uncategorized **Tags:** energy, energy infrastructure --- ### [Trump Administration Releases Overhaul of NEPA Implementing Regs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trump-administration-releases-overhaul-of-nepa-implementing-regulations/) **Published:** January 16, 2020 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Trump%20Administration%20Releases%20Overhaul%20of%20NEPA%20Implementing%20Regs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Late last week, in a historic action, the [White House Council on Environmental Quality](https://www.whitehouse.gov/ceq/) (CEQ) [released](https://www.whitehouse.gov/ceq/nepa-modernization/) a [proposed rule](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/NEPA-NPRM-01092020_Pre-publication-version.pdf) to revise the enforcement of the [National Environmental Policy Act](https://www.epa.gov/nepa) (NEPA). Signed into law in 1970, the NEPA review process requires federal agencies, prior to development, to evaluate the environmental impacts of their proposed actions. The NEPA review process is broad and includes making decisions on permit application, adopting federal land management actions, and constructing highways and other publicly owned facilities. Under NEPA implementation, CEQ is the coordinating entity between the White House and around 80 federal agencies that fall under [NEPA’s jurisdiction](https://ceq.doe.gov/nepa-practice/agency-jurisdiction-and-expertise.html). To some, this has lead to it taking federal agencies between four and seven years to complete [environmental impact statements](https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_education/publications/teaching-legal-docs/teaching-legal-docs--what-is-an-environmental-impact-statement-/) (EIS) and the statements exceed 600 pages on average. The Trump Administration in 2017 issued an executive order, known as the “[One Federal Decision](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2017/08/24/2017-18134/establishing-discipline-and-accountability-in-the-environmental-review-and-permitting-process-for),” directing CEQ to amend the NEPA process and develop a single permitting timetable for environmental review and authorization, preparing a single EIS, establishing a single record of decisions, and allowing for decisions to be authorized within 90 days. Leading from this point, the Trump Administration issued the latest proposed rule to continue addressing areas to improve the process. Some of the key points of the current proposed rule include: - Establish a presumptive time limit of two years for completion of environmental impact statements (EISs) and one-year completion of environmental assessments (EAs). Requires joint schedules, a single EIS, and a single record of decision (ROD), when appropriate for EISs involving multiple agencies. - Clarify terms, application process, and scope of NEPA review by providing direction on whether the NEPA process is required for a particular action; require comments to be specific and timely to ensure appropriate consideration; and simplify the definition of environmental ‘effects’ and clarify that effects must be reasonably foreseeable and have a reasonably close causal relationship to the proposed action. - Enhance coordination with state, tribal, and local governments by reducing duplicated documentation. - Reduce unnecessary burdens and delays by facilitating the use of efficient reviews (categorical exclusions (CEs) and environmental assessments) and allow agencies to establish procedures for adopting other agencies’ CEs. Currently, the ASCE government relations team is reviewing the nearly 200-page proposed rule and will work closely with members to provide comments before the end of the 60-day period. ASCE policy supports efforts to streamline the permitting process, as long as such efforts are made with safeguards in place to protect the natural environment. In 2018, ASCE [commented](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/ASCE-CEQ-NEPA_Comments_8.16.18-002-1.pdf) on the advanced notice of proposed rulemaking on updating NEPA, and urged CEQ to ensure that any updates or changes follow a balanced approach that protects the health, safety and welfare of the public, while addressing our nation’s critical infrastructure needs. The current [comment period](https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=CEQ-2019-0003-0001) ends on March 10, 2020. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Report%20Highlights%20Best%20Practices%20for%20Equity%20in%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, the American Society of Civil Engineers released a [new paper](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/asce-benefits-burdens-report.pdf), Measuring the Benefits and Burdens of Infrastructure in Disadvantaged Communities. The report looks at how several communities across the country consider equity when investing infrastructure funds, and the impact of those projects on lower-income communities. Read the report: [ASCE Benefits and Burdens Report 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/asce-benefits-burdens-report.pdf) ## Infrastructure investments create equity impacts Infrastructure, or the built environment, is the foundation of a functional society. Basic physical structures and organizational facilities like roads, bridges, clean water, and dependable electricity are critical to public health and safety, national security, and economic growth. All communities should be able to experience the benefits of modern, reliable infrastructure. In addition, many communities endure burdens from lacking that infrastructure, and more effort is needed to achieve fair treatment, access, opportunity, and advancement for all people. Burdens have also taken the form of infrastructure designed and placed without equitable and inclusive engagement with affected communities. ## Federal infrastructure funding targets disadvantaged communities Communities across America are currently receiving once-in-a-generation levels of infrastructure investment from the federal government through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Inflation Reduction Act. Many programs funded or established by these laws must follow the Justice40 initiative established by the Biden Administration, which requires 40 percent of federal spending from certain programs, including energy and infrastructure, go to disadvantaged communities. While the programs highlighted in ASCE’s latest report were implemented before the Justice40 initiative, the case studies illustrate how both urban and rural communities can successfully chart a more equitable, data-driven path into the future. ## Case studies feature equity in infrastructure work in Alaska, Texas, California - **Alaska’s Denali Commission** has invested in rural Alaskan communities since 1998. In more recent years, it has developed ranking systems to identify priorities. Economically distressed communities are typically given higher priority during the grant application process. - Colonias are rural communities on the U.S.-Mexico border that are defined as lacking adequate water, sewer, and/or decent housing. **Texas, home to more colonias** than any other border state, has directed investment toward these communities with a combination of state and federal funding. - **Los Angeles County Public Works** has identified equity as one of five strategic focus areas. Public Works is improving services and rethinking how the agency can produce more equitable outcomes. The work intends to identify and reduce disparities that may be produced in the planning, delivery, and distribution of County investments and services and to institutionalize this approach moving forward. - **Houston’s resilience against future disasters** primarily hinges on equitable distribution of resources and availability of services in all communities, including those traditionally underserved or disadvantaged. To measure current resilience weaknesses and identify areas for improvement, Houston decision-makers have utilized an equity indicators methodology comparing outcomes between multiple groups and calculating disparities to reduce with policymaking and operations. ## Recommendations to harness equitable benefits of infrastructure investment Governments and other infrastructure stakeholders have many pathways to harness the benefits of equity in infrastructure investments and address infrastructure burdens for disadvantaged residents and society. The following are recommendations to consider as stakeholders pursue the goal of equitable investment in the built environment. 1. Capture feedback from stakeholders and local communities through holistic engagement and ongoing relationships. 2. Use transparent and quantifiable metrics to increase the public’s trust in the process of assessing infrastructure projects and making investment decisions. 3. Post-project assessment methods are strongly encouraged; the public is more likely to support agency decisions when they can link previous decisions to improvements in their community. 4. Utilize existing tools like the White House’s CEJST, USDOT’s ETC Explorer, and EPA’s EJScreen as a strong foundation, from which decision-makers can customize with more local data and considerations. 5. Don’t stop at the analysis phase; make those infrastructure equity data real, and execute subsequent infrastructure investment decisions using your findings. Add new data, tools, and values to inform future project decisions. 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Andy Beshear Celebrates Mountain Parkway Expansion at Engineering & Public Works Roadshow Event](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ky-gov-andy-beshear-headlines-engineering-public-works-roadshow-event-in-frankfort/) **Published:** January 29, 2024 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F01%2FEngineering-and-Public-Works-Roadshow-Live-from-Frankfort-KY-45-24-screenshot-400x225.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F01%2FEngineering-and-Public-Works-Roadshow-Live-from-Frankfort-KY-45-24-screenshot-400x225.jpg&description=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=KY%20Gov.%20Andy%20Beshear%20Celebrates%20Mountain%20Parkway%20Expansion%20at%20Engineering%20%26%20Public%20Works%20Roadshow%20Event&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Monday, January 29th, the [Engineering & Public Works Roadshow](http://www.infrastructureroadshow.org/) series made its fourth stop, this time in Frankfort, Kentucky, in conjunction with Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear celebrating the state’s Mountain Parkway Expansion project. The Roadshow commended the program’s collaborative legislative efforts from federal and state partners to connect Eastern Kentucky residents with the rest of the state. The roadshow is a partnership between the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/) (ASCE), the [American Public Works Association](http://www.apwa.org/) (APWA), and the [American Council of Engineering Companies](http://www.acec.org/) (ACEC) to highlight the meaningful, transformational work of engineers and public works professionals and to encourage students and young professionals to pursue rewarding careers in engineering and public works. “In Kentucky, we are building a legacy of infrastructure. Life-changing infrastructure that will have positive impacts on Kentucky’s families for generations to come,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “The Mountain Parkway Extension is more than a half century in the making. During so many of those decades people wondered, ‘will it ever get done?’ Collectively, we looked at them, and said ‘watch us.’” ![Group of men in business attire posing on a stage; center man holds a black plaque with white gear icons, at an awards ceremony poster backdrop behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Engineering-and-Public-Works-Roadshow-Live-from-Frankfort-KY-45-24-screenshot-400x225.jpg "Engineering and Public Works Roadshow Live from Frankfort, KY 45-24 screenshot")Gov Andy Beshear joined by Mountain Parkway Expansion project leadsBeshear mentioned that for the first time since its conception, 100% of the expansion project is either completed, being constructed, or under contract. ## ASCE Comments on Mountain Parkway Expansion at Roadshow Event At today’s press conference, Governor Andy Beshear, Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray, FHWA Kentucky Administrator Todd Jeter, state elected officials, and leaders from ACEC, APWA, and ASCE offered comments on the importance of projects like the Mountain Parkway Expansion. The current Mountain Parkway Expansion fulfills a promise made more than 60 years ago when the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway opened in 1963 as a two- and four-lane roadway. The road was intended as a high-speed route beyond the interstate highway system to enable the flow of commerce and support tourism between rural Eastern Kentucky and the rest of the Commonwealth. While the original Parkway was expected to run past Saylersville eastward to Hazard, that project was never undertaken. The Mountain Parkway Expansion project is now more than 70 percent completed and is expected to be fully realized in 2027. Once complete, it will close the long-standing transportation gap that exists between the citizens of Eastern Kentucky and the rest of the Commonwealth. It will also provide a safer corridor for travel with four lanes of traffic. ![Woman in a pink blazer speaking at a podium with a “Team Kentucky” sign behind her, flanked by the U.S. flag and Kentucky state flag.",](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Engineering-and-Public-Works-Roadshow-Live-from-Frankfort-KY-13-9-screenshot-400x225.jpg "Engineering and Public Works Roadshow Live from Frankfort, KY 13-9 screenshot")ASCE President Marsia Geldert Murphey“We often refer to major infrastructure projects like this as an investment – meaning that this is not just money being spent, we can expect something in return for this program,” said ASCE president Marsia Geldert-Murphey. “That’s exactly what the Mountain Parkway Extension is, an investment. Kentucky commuters can feel more secure travelling on modernized roads; communities can come together with greater ease now that the parkway connects different regions in the state; and from an economic standpoint, goods and services can move more freely, generating commercial gains for the state.” The Mountain Parkway Expansion project would be impossible without the cooperation of state and federal elected officials working together to fund such a significant infrastructure project. In his State of the State address earlier this month, Gov. Beshear called for $300 million to speed up the completion of the Mountain Parkway Expansion. The commonwealth is also waiting on federal grant funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to be used for the project. As the federal government continues to implement this monumental legislation, the second year of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will not be fully realized without an expanded and robust workforce. Students nationwide must be educated about the rewarding careers of civil engineering and public works so these professions have the necessary staffing to complete transformative projects. 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#infrastructurebill, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, Kentucky, transportation, workforce --- ### [ASCE and Congressional Champions Seek Bipartisan Approach to National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-and-congressional-champions-seek-bipartisan-approach-to-national-dam-safety-program-reauthorization/) **Published:** January 25, 2024 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20and%20Congressional%20Champions%20Seek%20Bipartisan%20Approach%20to%20National%20Dam%20Safety%20Program%20Reauthorization&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In 1996, Congress authorized the creation of the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) to support dam safety programs at the state level nationwide. Since it was first established, the NDSP has become the primary source of federal funding for state dam safety programs, supporting activities such as dam inspection and monitoring, emergency preparedness, and staffing needs. While the program has historically not been funded at its full authorized level of $13.9 million, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) made dams a priority by appropriating nearly $3.1 billion for dam safety activities, including $215 million for the NDSP. While this marked a historic investment in dam safety, Congress thus far failed to build on this momentum and ultimately allowed the NDSP’s authorization to lapse on September 30, 2023. While the program continues to operate under the current continuing resolution funding government operations at FY 2023 levels, as well as funds provided under IIJA, reauthorization of the NDSP is the only way to ensure that the program can continue to grow and develop and have access to annual federal appropriations. As such, one of ASCE’s top policy priorities in 2023 and 2024 has been the program’s reauthorization. Along with the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO), ASCE has worked closely over the past year with Congressional champions to move NDSP reauthorization forward through the legislative process. **Bipartisan Legislation** ASCE and ASDSO have spent much of the past year working with Congressional champions in the House and Senate to advance bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the NDSP. Last August, Representatives Chuck Edwards (R-NC) and Ann Kuster (D-NH) kicked this process off [by introducing H.R. 5104, the National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act](https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-introduces-legislation-improve-wncs-dam-safety). H.R. 5104, which marked the first step in this bipartisan effort, would reauthorize the NDSP through FY 2028. This effort was followed up by the introduction of S. 3111, the companion effort to reauthorize the NDSP. In addition to reauthorizing the program for five years, [S. 3111, led by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Kevin Cramer (R-ND)](https://www.padilla.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/padilla-cramer-introduce-legislation-to-reauthorize-the-national-dam-safety-program/), would remove the existing limitation on funds states may receive in NDSP State Assistance Grants which currently no more than half of state costs for operating state dam safety programs. Under the current law, states may only receive up to NDSP State Assistance Grants up to an amount no greater than 50 percent of the cost of operating a state’s dam safety program. This limitation was initially intended to prevent states from relying solely on federal funds for their state programs, however, additional provisions within the law already require states to make good faith efforts to adequately fund dam safety programs using state revenues. Removing this provision would allow not only more money to flow to states, but would make it easier for FEMA to distribute the historic funds provided by IIJA without unnecessary funding restrictions. In addition to reforms to State Assistance Grants, S. 3111 also makes needed reforms to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation (HHPD) Grant Program. These reforms include the creation of a new definition under the law for “small, disadvantaged communities”, and removing non-federal cost share requirements (currently 35 percent of project cost) for dam rehabilitation projects in these communities, allowing for more communities with high hazard potential dams to have better access to the repair funds that they need. Finally, in December, Representatives Edwards and Kuster [introduced a second bill](https://edwards.house.gov/media/press-releases/edwards-kuster-and-ryan-introduce-bills-prevent-catastrophic-dam-failures) to complement H.R. 5104 and make the House and Senate efforts to reauthorize the NDSP more reflective of one another. The NDSP Amendment Act (H.R. 6931) contains the policy changes which were included in S. 3111. However, unlike the Senate bill, the NDSP Amendment Act caps the amount of money states may receive in state assistance grants at a 4 to 1 margin, meaning states would be able to receive up to four times the amount of funds they invest in their own state dam safety programs. While this does not remove the provision entirely, it would still allow for historic levels of funding to flow to states to support dam safety programs. **WRDA 2024** It is ASCE’s ultimate aim that reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program will be included in the 2024 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Historically, WRDA has served as the legislative vehicle for changes to the NDSP, as was the case with the program’s previous reauthorization which was included in the 2018 WRDA bill. For over a year, ASCE has been actively engaged with House Members and Senators, as well as the respective authorizing committees, advocating for the need to reauthorize the NDSP and the importance of including it in WRDA 2024. NDSP reauthorization serves as [ASCE’s top WRDA priority for 2024](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2023-12-05-water-resources-subcommittee-hearing-wrda.pdf). The WRDA process in both chambers of Congress is well underway, with both House Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) and Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committees having held hearings with federal and nonfederal stakeholders to discuss 2024 priorities. Additionally, both committees have accepted policy and project requests from their respective members. ASCE is pleased that several Members in both the House and Senate have submitted NDSP reauthorization as part of their overall policy request, and ASCE will continue to advocate for its inclusion in WRDA as the process moves forward into the Spring. 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Programs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-seeks-reauthorization-of-earthquake-and-wind-research-programs/) **Published:** February 1, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Seeks%20Reauthorization%20of%20Earthquake%20and%20Wind%20Research%20Programs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Seeks%20Reauthorization%20of%20Earthquake%20and%20Wind%20Research%20Programs "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Seeks%20Reauthorization%20of%20Earthquake%20and%20Wind%20Research%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE’s efforts to spur Congressional action to reauthorize two federal programs that are critical to the nation’s resilience has finally achieved some results. Both the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP) are past due for reauthorization and Congress has been slow to act. Efforts by ASCE and other supporters of the programs have been met not by opposition, but by competing legislative priorities and delays caused by unrelated issues. Recent action has indicated reauthorization is a real possibility this year. First to act was the Senate, as Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced [legislation](https://www.padilla.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/padilla-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-reauthorize-national-earthquake-hazards-reduction-program/) (S. 3606) to reauthorize NEHRP in mid-January. This was closely followed by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology’s Subcommittee on Research and Technology’s [hearing](https://science.house.gov/2024/1/research-and-technology-subcommittee-hearing-from-risk-to-resilience-reauthorizing-the-earthquake-and-windstorm-hazards-reduction-programs) on reauthorization of both programs January 30th. ASCE endorsed the Senate bill and submitted [comments](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2024-01-30-asce-statement-house-science-nehrp-nwirp.pdf) for the hearing and will continue to work with and push both chambers to compete reauthorizations. The *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* recommends advancements in resilience across all infrastructure categories as one of the three key solutions for raising the nation’s infrastructure grades. Both programs support resilience by funding and coordinating research to better understand the impact of earthquakes and wind hazards and to mitigate those impacts. This knowledge goes beyond the core mission of the two programs and has the potential to increase resilience against many hazards, both natural and human induced. Research results from these programs are widely shared and inform the development of standards, such [as ASCE-7 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE/SEI 7-22](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7)), and other accepted consensus-based standards. NEHRP** NEHRP was created by the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act of 1977, which recognized the threat earthquakes pose and the enormous costs associated with them. NEHRP has provided the resources and leadership that have led to significant advances in understanding the risk earthquakes pose and the best ways to mitigate them. Through NEHRP, the federal government has engaged in seismic monitoring, mapping, research, testing, and engineering. This work supports code development and advances mitigation techniques and emergency preparedness. Although NEHRP is well known for its research programs, it is also the source of hundreds of innovative technologies, maps, design techniques, and standards that are used by design professionals every day to mitigate hazards and risks. NEHRP is a cost-effective and well-run program that has successfully reduced the risk of earthquakes through the cohesive efforts of four federal agencies: the National Science Foundation (NSF), the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). ASCE has been actively involved with NEHRP since its creation. ASCE members regularly serve on the Advisory Committee on Earthquake Hazards Reduction (ACEHR) and work directly for the member agencies. Other ASCE members are engaged in grant-based research. Additionally, ASCE frequently champions the program on Capitol Hill. ASCE was instrumental in the 2004 reorganization of the program, as well as the most recent reauthorization in 2018. ASCE subject experts were also consulted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) on their report entitled [Earthquakes: Opportunities Exist to Further Assess Risk, Build Resilience, and Communicate Research](https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-22-105016). **NWIRP** ASCE was instrumental in the creation of NWIRP, which was enacted in 2004 by Public Law 108-360 with the hope of emulating the success of NEHRP. Windstorms are among the most devastating natural hazards. Each year, the United States suffers tremendous losses as a result of windstorms. Hurricanes, tornadoes, and other windstorms cause death and injury, business interruption, and property damage in all 50 states and all U.S. territories. As urban growth continues, and people move to coastal areas, the trend towards larger impacts and increasing costs will continue unless an effective wind hazard reduction plan is funded and implemented. NWIRP was modeled after the larger and older NEHRP and conducts many of the same types of activities. The program is designed to coordinate federal efforts to mitigate the impact of severe winds and enhance cooperation among federal agencies, including NIST, NSF, FEMA, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Its goal, as stated by Congress, is to achieve major measurable reductions in the losses of life and property from windstorms through a coordinated federal effort, in cooperation with other levels of government, academia, and the private sector. The aim is improving scientific understanding of windstorms and their impacts and developing and encouraging the implementation of cost-effective mitigation measures to reduce those impacts. While the member agencies of NWIRP and other partners have worked diligently to carry out their mandate, lack of dedicated funding from Congress has not permitted the program to achieve its full potential. This challenge, coupled with the failure of Congress to reauthorize the program in a timely manner, represents years of missed opportunities and delays in reaching the full potential of the program. **Resilience** Resilience is the ability to plan, prepare for, mitigate, and adapt to changing conditions to enable the recovery of physical, social, economic, and ecological infrastructure. Both NEHRP and NWIRP have made significant contributions to advances in the resilience of the nation’s infrastructure and ASCE is committed to working to ensure these contributions continue into the future. ASCE’s [Pathways to Resilient Communities](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/civil-engineering-source/society-news/article/2023/06/12/new-toolkit-centralizes-tools-and-resources-to-improve-resilience) provides roadmap to the available technical tools and resources is designed for community leaders looking to improve their built environment’s ability to respond to increasingly severe storms and other threats to vertical and horizontal infrastructure. The highlighted codes, standards, and manuals of practice we developed by ASCE members, other stakeholders, and, in many cases, the output of NEHRP and NWIRP. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Seeks%20Reauthorization%20of%20Earthquake%20and%20Wind%20Research%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Celebrating 2023 American Infrastructure Triumphs and Looking Ahead to a Big 2024!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/celebrating-2023-american-infrastructure-triumphs/) **Published:** December 27, 2023 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Celebrating%202023%20American%20Infrastructure%20Triumphs%20and%20Looking%20Ahead%20to%20a%20Big%202024%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")As 2023 ends, the ASCE government relations team wants to thank our members for their hard work and advocacy for advancing the civil engineering profession and improving American infrastructure. ![Five panelists sit in a row on a blue ASCE stage, with an American flag on the left and an audience in front.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/MAA9D71-400x266.jpg "ASCE Legislative Fly-in")*ASCE Legislative Fly in meeting day one in Washington DC Wednesday March 1 2023 Photo by Cliff Owen*This year, ASCE members helped shape policy at the local, state, and federal levels, sending more than 1,200 messages to 492 lawmakers at all levels of government to help address some of ASCE’s priority issues. ASCE members advocated for our top priorities with members of Congress, both in-person and online. Last March during the [Legislative Fly-In](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/legislative-fly-in), members held 258 meetings with congressional offices. These meetings made Members of Congress aware of ASCE’s top legislative priorities for the 118th Congress and helped lawmakers better understand how these priorities impact their constituents and communities. Our inaugural Virtual Day of Action in September led to more than one hundred meetings between ASCE members and congressional offices. Our members talked with their representatives about the importance of American infrastructure funding as lawmakers work through the federal budget appropriations process. ## Our Role In the Implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act ![A man is standing in from of National Infrastructure Advisory Council at The White House to speak about American Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Lehman-at-Biden-WH-Meeting-400x270.jpg "Lehman at Biden WH Meeting")*ASCE Past President Maria Lehman PE attends National Infrastructure Advisory Council at The White House with President Biden*As the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684) (IIJA) enters its [third year of implementation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-celebrates-two-year-anniversary-of-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law/), ASCE has been at the forefront to ensure all communities see the greatest benefit from the most significant investment in American Infrastructure in a generation. ASCE leadership has a seat at the table with the top leaders in Washington, informing them of the progress. In December, ASCE Past President Maria Lehman, P.E. led a meeting of [The President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council](https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/groups/presidents-national-infrastructure-advisory-council-niac) where President Biden joined the meeting, sitting down with council members to discuss the implementation of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and learn how the Administration can work with the private and public sector to advance the nation’s infrastructure strategy. ASCE staff and leadership also participated in several activities during [Infrastructure Week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-kicks-off-infrastructure-week-with-workforce-panels/) in May to highlight some early success stories of the IIJA. ![A group of people are on stage participating in a forum about American Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CTNM-Marsia-panel-1-400x300.jpg "CTNM - Marsia panel 1")*ASCE President Marsia Geldert Murphey participates in a forum during Infrastructure Week 2023*Workforce challenges are still one of the most critical issues for ASCE members. American infrastructure investment means more workers are needed for businesses and government agencies designing and building infrastructure projects funded by the IIJA and other sources. ASCE partnered with the National Governors Association to write “[Strategies to Address Engineering Workforce Challenges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/NGA_ASCE_Workforce_BestPractices_Final.pdf)” to help public and private employers find solutions to challenges they face to retain, recruit, and grow the infrastructure workforce. ## Advancing Community Resiliency Advocating for resiliency in the built environment has been another focus for ASCE. In June, ASCE released a new toolkit, “[Pathways to Resilient Communities](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit.pdf).” This document informs decision-makers about ASCE’s tools and resources to better understand the hazards their communities face. ASCE’s standards and manuals of practice can help leaders implement modern codes and build to withstand increasing threats from extreme weather events. In September, ASCE also held a congressional briefing, “Making Our Infrastructure Future-Ready: Modern building standards to support resilient communities” to inform decision-makers about the benefits of more resilient infrastructure. ![A group of people are standing next to a a sign presenting Vermont's Report Card showcasing American Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/VT-RC-Release-Photo-400x300.jpg "VT RC Release Photo")*Members of the Vermont Section of ASCE present the 2023 Report Card for Vermonts Infrastructure*## More Data Equals More Solutions Four ASCE state sections released a report card this past year: [Wyoming](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wyoming/) in January, [Vermont](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/) in February, [Iowa](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/iowa/) in April, and [Michigan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/michigan/) in May. State report cards are an invaluable resource for advocacy efforts. For lawmakers, it’s a reliable data source with specific examples and solutions of how to pass legislation and funding to positively impact their constituents and communities. It’s often cited by staffers and state officials and is a well-respected, easy-to-use resource. Members in several states are also in the final stages of preparing report cards for release in 2024. ## Advocating for American Infrastructure: A Look Forward to 2024 Looking forward, we’re focused on more critical infrastructure legislation that would improve the health, safety and welfare of the American public. When Congress returns in January, we’ll be there to champion top legislative priorities like [FAA Reauthorization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-reauthorization-readies-for-takeoff/) and the [National Dam Safety Program](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=My7nAsMMVwc) to the finish line. In the spring, ASCE will release a highly-anticipated new economic study which will help us better understand how the IIJA is impacting the infrastructure investment gap. The Committee on America’s Infrastructure is also at work compiling information and writing the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure,* which is set for release in Spring of 2025. As we prepare for a busy year ahead, we want to thank our members for all they did to help advocate for civil engineering and America’s infrastructure in 2023 and look forward to seeing what we achieve together in 2024! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Celebrates%20Two-Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE celebrates the two-year anniversary of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), or Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). The BIL is the largest-ever investment in our nation’s built environment, providing $1.2 trillion towards all 17 categories of infrastructure outlined in ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The IIJA represents a significant down payment on the $2.6 trillion infrastructure investment gap over a 10-year period identified in ASCE’s [Failure to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) economic study. ## Ongoing U.S. Infrastructure Investments Since its passage, the IIJA has announced $400 billion in funding for more than 40,000 projects across the country, including nearly 8,000 bridge projects, 25 passenger rail projects, 190 airport terminal projects, 445 port and waterway projects, 1,200 drinking and wastewater projects, and over 60 projects dedicated to improving the resilience and reliability of the energy grid. Major projects like the Brent Spence Bridge connecting Ohio and Kentucky and the Hudson River Tunnel in New York have received funding to begin construction after years of being put on the back burner. <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/ASCE-IIJA-2-Year-Anniversary-Social-Video-1.mp4> ## Raising IIJA Awareness and Its Impact on Infrastructure Investing Despite these significant advancements in improving our nation’s infrastructure, public polling indicates that a large percentage of Americans are not aware of the scope of investments made under the IIJA. To raise awareness and share successes, ASCE has partnered with the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC) and the American Public Works Association (APWA) to create the Engineering & Public Works Roadshow. The Roadshow is an opportunity to highlight projects across the country that demonstrate what smart infrastructure investments look like and how they benefit local communities, the economy, and the environment. Since the launch of the Roadshow, we have hosted events at projects in Richmond, VA; the Port of Long Beach, CA; and Dallas, TX. These are forward-looking projects that exemplify how engineers are working with policymakers to advance our shared goals: prioritize equity and increase resilience in the face of climate change. ## Challenges U.S. Infrastructure Investing Must Address Increasingly severe storms shine a light on the challenges facing our built environment. Many infrastructure systems were built a generation or more ago. Stormwater systems must regularly accommodate record rainfalls they weren’t built to withstand. Dams built a century ago are protecting growing downstream communities where once none lived. Our transit and aviation infrastructure – and the people who operate these systems – are operating under extreme temperatures. As a historic amount of IIJA dollars are spent on resilience, ASCE stresses that the most reliable way to build more resiliently is the widespread adoption and enforcement of up-to-date, modern building codes. ## How ASCE Is Supporting Resilient Infrastructure Investments In May, ASCE made the most significant update to the [flood load chapter](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/10.1061/9780784415788.sup2) in the Society’s most widely-used standard, [ASCE/SEI 7-22 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures](https://asce7.online/). The ASCE 7 national loading standard is an integral part of building codes in the United States and around the globe. Updates to the flood load chapter, when enforced, will protect homes and buildings against 500-year flood events, a substantial step forward from the 100-year flood hazard protections referenced in the previous version. ASCE developed an easy-to-understand [toolkit](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/pathways-to-resilient-communities-asce-toolkit.pdf) on the standards and technical content readily available to build infrastructure systems that can withstand natural hazards, including earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, and tornados. ASCE applauds Congress for passing both the PRECIP Act and the FLOODS Act last year, which are critical to updating the nation’s decades-old precipitation data. Those programs need to not only be funded, but the research at NOAA needs to be accelerated so that data can begin to drive how we are designing for these larger rain events. ## Focusing on the Needs in the Infrastructure Workforce The passage of the IIJA highlights the gaps in America’s engineering and construction workforce, without whom new investments can’t be maximized. It is estimated that the IIJA has created an additional 82,000 engineering and design jobs, however, the current pipeline of engineers is insufficient for this influx of design and construction work. Recently, ASCE partnered with the National Governors Association to develop best practices for the public and private sectors to address the engineering shortfall. In February 2024, ASCE will release a new IMAX film nationwide, Cities of the Future, to excite the next generation of civil engineers and build out the pipeline of STEM professionals. To capitalize on new workforce momentum, infrastructure leaders need federal partners. The IIJA is starting to address this gap with new worker programs and flexibility within existing programs. Developing additive workforce programs is important because increased flexibility for workforce programs within existing infrastructure program dollars has not demonstrated impact. When workforce programs compete with dollars that can be directed into design and construction, workforce programs lose out. ## The Future of U.S. Infrastructure Investing As we look to the year ahead, ASCE will update its Failure to Act economic study. The new report will update the gap in infrastructure investment now that IIJA dollars are arriving. The study helps the public understand the underlying impacts on their wallets if we don’t invest in infrastructure. Following that study, in early 2025 ASCE will release the latest *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, where we can begin to see what the impacts of the IIJA have been on current conditions. As we celebrate these infrastructure investments, ASCE stands ready to continue to work with policymakers to ensure we deploy IIJA effectively and efficiently over the upcoming years. 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Takeoff](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-reauthorization-readies-for-takeoff/) **Published:** June 15, 2023 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=FAA%20Reauthorization%20Readies%20for%20Takeoff&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F06%2Fslideout-ASCE-aviations2-768x895-1-343x400.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=FAA%20Reauthorization%20Readies%20for%20Takeoff "Share on 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Our aviation infrastructure allows people to travel to their destinations, facilitates the movement of goods, and plays a key role in the nation’s economy. Unfortunately, ASCE’S *[2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* graded the nation’s aviation infrastructure a “D+” and estimated that the nation’s airports would need $237 billion over 10 years to bring them into a state of good repair. For this reason, ASCE has strongly urged Congress to pass an FAA reauthorization that builds on the investments provided under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and ensures that our nation’s airports will receive robust and reliable funding before the current authorization expires on September 30th. Thankfully this week Congress took major steps to ensure reliability for FAA programs. Over the past week, the House and the Senate have been deeply engaged in moving forward bipartisan legislation. On June 9th, leaders of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) unveiled the bipartisan [Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act ](https://transportation.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=406734)(H.R. 3935), a five-year, $103.9 billion reauthorization of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs, with a focus on safety and resilience. The bill includes $20 billion for the Airport Improvement Program, $17.2 billion for facilities and equipment, and $66.7 billion for operations. T&I Committee leaders have made FAA reauthorization a top priority this year, holding five hearings on this subject between February and April. Shortly after introduction, the committee marked the bill up. After working through nearly 200 amendments over two days, the T&I Committee passed the bill with unanimous support on June 14th, setting the bill up for floor consideration. Meanwhile, the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, which is responsible for the research title in the FAA reauthorization, introduced the FAA Research and Development Act of 2023 (H.R. 3559), and passed their bill the same day that the T&I Committee completed its work. The title from the House Science Committee will be joined with the larger package from T&I when the bill reaches the House floor later this summer. On June 12th, shortly after the House introduced its bill, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee released the[ FAA Reauthorization Act of 2023](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2023/6/cantwell-cruz-duckworth-moran-introduce-bipartisan-faa-reauthorization). This represents a bipartisan, five-year, $107 billion piece of legislation. The Senate bill provides $20 billion for the Airport Improvement Program, $67.5 billion for total agency operations, $18.2 billion for FAA facilities and equipment, and many provisions related to consumer protections. The Senate Commerce Committee was scheduled to mark up its bill on June 15; however that mark up has been temporarily postponed. Both the House and Senate bills have been introduced as “Big Four” legislation, meaning in the House, full committee chairman Sam Graves (R-MO), full committee ranking member Rick Larsen (R-WA), Aviation Subcommittee chairman Garret Graves (R-LA), and Aviation Subcommittee ranking member Steve Cohen (D-TN) introduced the bill, while in the Senate, full committee chair Maria Cantwell (D-WA), full committee ranking member Ted Cruz (R-TX), Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation Subcommittee chair Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation Subcommittee ranking member Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced their version. ASCE supports both the bipartisan [House](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2023-06-09-asce-letter-house-ti-faa-reauthorization-bill.pdf) and Senate bills. As written, each bill covers more than $100 billion in appropriations, includes a significant increase in Airport Improvement Program funding, and would reauthorize the FAA through 2028. Additionally, both bills address several of the key recommendations made to raise the grade for the nation’s aviation infrastructure. Solutions proposed in the bills include providing resources to improve resilience against potentially catastrophic events, increasing funding for the Airport Improvement Program, and supporting innovative technologies that can reduce congestion and improve capacity. Prior to the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018, the FAA operated under a series of short-term authorizations, leading to costly delays in investment decisions. House T&I Chairman Sam Graves has targeted the third week of July for full House passage to allow enough time for bicameral conference negotiations ahead of the September 30 deadline. Senate leaders have not indicated when consideration might take place in the Chamber; however, it is very possible that the legislation will be taken up before the Chamber breaks for its August recess. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Take%20Some%20Time%20Today%20to%20Imagine%20a%20Day%20Without%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Most of you have probably already had a cup or two of coffee today or started the laundry. Now imagine starting your day without that morning brew, brushing your teeth, or washing your toddler’s hands before breakfast. Imagine what it’s like to not have water, even for one day, and you can see life grinds to a halt. For decades, Americans have been privileged to have access to clean water at a moment’s notice. Pouring a glass of water, washing hands, brushing teeth – all activities that require water. With largely outdated infrastructure supporting our clean water access, those days may not be so assured for all Americans. Today, October 23 is the fifth annual [Imagine A Day Without Water](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/)—a day of national education and awareness. On this day, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is asking Americans to contemplate what just one single day would look like without available clean water and modern wastewater treatment. Water infrastructure is out of sight, out of mind, but in reality, the United States uses 42 billion gallons of water per day to support our daily life. U.S. drinking water relies on a system of one million miles of pipes across the country, most of which were laid in the early-to-mid 20th century, built with an expected life span of 75 to 100 years. In fact, Americans across the country know the importance of clean and dependable drinking ![Graphic with two blue factories emitting smoke and the message: '1/5 of the US economy would grind to a halt without reliable water infrastructure,' promoting Imagine a Day Without Water (Oct 23, 2019).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/idww19_twitter_economy-400x200.png "idww19_twitter_economy")water and wastewater system: [85% of American voters (with 52% strongly supporting)](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/2019%20VOW%20National%20Poll%20Release%20PPT%20-%20Abridged%20-%20FOR%20PUBLIC%20USE.pdf) increasing federal water infrastructure investment. We’re seeing the results of aging infrastructure now. Of the 42 billion gallons we consume daily, nearly six billion is lost due to leaking or severed pipes. The U.S. is averaging water main breaks nearly once every two minutes across the country, or 240,000 per year. After all, U.S. drinking water only received a dismal “D” on ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card and our wastewater systems earned a “D+.” If we do not have clean water, our health, safety, economy, and environment will all be at risk. U.S. drinking water is still almost universally high, but we are seeing some unsettling and unacceptable exceptions. Flint, Michigan saw dangerous levels of lead infiltrating the supply just a few years ago. Flint residents are still forced to use bottled water while officials work on a solution. In Newark, New Jersey, residents have been dealing with elevated lead levels since 2017. The levels reached a tipping point this past August when around 15,000 households were forced to rely on bottled water for daily use. The Environmental Protection Agency recently issued a proposed lead and copper rule update, aimed at improving the process for how communities test for lead, which the agency’s been working to revamp since 2005. This rule would create a “trigger level” of 10 parts per billion (ppb) to require utilities to review the chemicals they use to prevent lead pipes from corroding. The current lead action level is 15 ppb. While many implementation questions remain, this legislation is a huge step forward in modernizing our water infrastructure because no one should have lead in their drinking water. Significant funding is needed to prevent future water crisis and ensure that all communities have access to adequate drinking water and wastewater treatment. Outdated infrastructure, including leaky water pipes, costs the average American family $9 dollars a day. As ASCE advocates for robust legislation that addresses our nation’s infrastructure needs, we ask Congress to fully fund critical water resources infrastructure programs such as the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act. ASCE is a proud advocate of infrastructure investment and participant in [Imagine a Day Without Water](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/participate/2019-sponsors). Join the [Value of Water](https://twitter.com/TheValueofWater?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor) and [ASCE](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel) on social media in the ongoing conversation about investing in our drinking water and wastewater infrastructure networks. As you go about your day, be sure to Imagine A Day Without Water: what would a lack of water mean to you? 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Take%20Some%20Time%20Today%20to%20Imagine%20a%20Day%20Without%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** ASCE, Drinking Water, infrastructure report card, Value of Water, wastewater --- ### [ASCE strongly opposes legislation that would create federal gas tax holiday](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-strongly-opposes-legislation-that-would-create-federal-gas-tax-holiday/) **Published:** February 17, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In a demonstration of strong opposition to a bill that would suspend the federal gas tax, ASCE joined a group of transportation industry partners in sending a letter urging members of the Senate and House of Representatives to reject the legislation. Introduced by Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) on February 9th, the [Gas Prices Relief Act (S.3609)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3609/actions?r=2&s=1) would suspend the current 18.4 cents-per-gallon federal gasoline tax until January 1, 2023. ASCE opposes the legislation, as the federal fuel tax serves as a reliable federal revenue source for communities to fix and modernize their roads, bridges, and transit systems. The federal fuel tax supports the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), which offers vital support to road, bridge, and transit projects. Taking a gas tax ‘holiday’ – even for a temporary amount of time – would result in an estimated loss of over $20 billion from the HTF. This, in turn, would deal a serious blow to the new [bipartisan infrastructure bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684/text) at a crucial time when Americans are expecting improvements to the nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems that rely on that funding for maintenance and repair. #### Pain at the pump vs. fixing America’s infrastructure ASCE’s [2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) reflects an urgent need for capital improvements across the country’s transportation systems. The report card graded the nation’s [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) a “D,” [ bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) a “C,” and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) a “D-.” The federal gas tax legislation is meant to address concerns about inflation and the rising cost of gasoline. The bill intends to backfill the significant losses to the HTF with a transfer from the General Fund, further adding to the deficit. ![self healing asphalt](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/ASCE_self-healing-asphalt.jpg "Road rollers working on the construction site") As Senate Democrats begin debating ideas for legislation designed to cut costs for Americans with inflation driving up costs for gasoline, food, and other necessities, S. 3609 could be included in a larger economic package. The bill has been referred to the Senate Finance Committee and companion legislation is expected shortly in the House. While ASCE recognizes that the bill sounds enticing to American families impacted by inflation, Congress knows that a variety of factors, including supply and demand, affect the gas prices at fuel stations. This legislation’s attempt to deliver economic relief to Americans is misguided and [won’t achieve the intended outcomes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-holidays-get-the-facts/). Furthermore, the bill includes little guarantee that motorists will see any real relief at the pump, as oil producers have, in the past, benefited significantly from previous state-level gas tax holidays. There is no mechanism to ensure that savings are passed on to consumers, but there is a virtual guarantee of disrupting transportation dollars and the HTF. #### The real impact of a federal gas tax holiday Ultimately, suspending the federal gas tax now sets a fiscally irresponsible precedent that the gas tax should not be collected when fuel prices are high. Additionally, undoing the gas tax “holiday” will be difficult once enacted, especially if fuel prices have not come down, further threatening the largest source of revenue for the HTF. ASCE believes now is the time to build on the momentum of the bipartisan infrastructure law and take significant steps to revitalize our aging transportation infrastructure, improve public safety, and create well-paying local jobs. Any legislation suspending the federal gas tax is a major step backward and threatens the work that Congress and the Administration put into place with the enactment of the infrastructure bill last year. ##### Get more facts about state and federal gas tax holidays [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-holidays-get-the-facts/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=10%20Years%20After%20the%20I-35%20Bridge%20Collapse%3A%20What%E2%80%99s%20Changed%20With%20the%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Bridges%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F08%2FImage-I35W_Collapse_-_Day_4_-_Operations__Scene_95_edit.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=10%20Years%20After%20the%20I-35%20Bridge%20Collapse%3A%20What%E2%80%99s%20Changed%20With%20the%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Bridges%3F "Share on 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injuring 145 more. The eight-lane bridge was Minnesota’s third busiest, carrying 140,000 people a day. Its failure opened many people’s eyes to the danger of taking our infrastructure for granted and led leaders at all levels of government to take a closer look at how the country was maintaining its aging infrastructure. The I-35 bridge was structurally deficient, meaning that it required significant maintenance, rehabilitation, or replacement. It was one of over 74,000 bridges that were rated structurally deficient in 2007 or 12.3% of total bridges in the U.S. However, the National Transportation Safety Board later concluded that it was a design flaw that caused the bridge to fail. The bridge’s gusset plates, which connect the steel beams, were too thin and had been further stressed by the presence of nearly 300 tons of construction equipment and materials that had been stored on the bridge deck for ongoing repair work. The past 10 years have garnered some positive changes in our nation’s bridges. Despite the fact it was a design flaw and not deferred maintenance that led to the failure of the I-35 bridge, the collapse led to a concerted effort at all levels of government to improve bridge conditions in the U.S. On September 20, 2007, not two months after the collapse and before the causes of the failure were clear, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee held a hearing on “Structurally Deficient Bridges in the United States,” which included [testimony from Andy Herrmann on behalf of ASCE](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/3/f/3ff48abc-ada4-46ba-8531-ad49acf6e510/01AFD79733D77F24A71FEF9DAFCCB056.herrmannascesenateepwbridgessept202007.pdf). ASCE’s testimony pointed out that increased federal funding was critical for bridge rehabilitation. In recent years more money has been spent on bridges. The federal government estimates that $17.5 billion was spent on bridge capital projects in 2012, with $6 billion from the federal government and $11.5 billion from state and local sources. This is a substantial increase from the $11.5 billion that was spent on bridges in 2006. However, investment in our nation’s bridges remains insufficient. The most recent federal estimate puts the backlog of rehabilitation projects for the nation’s bridges at $123 billion. In 2016, 9.1%, or approximately 56,000, of the country’s bridges were structurally deficient. This is a strong decrease from the 74,000, or 12.3,% in 2007, but still far too many. The nation’s bridges are also getting older, with the average bridge now 43 years old, and 39% of bridges over 50 years old. Most of the nation’s bridges were designed for a lifespan of 50 years, so an increasing number of bridges will soon need major rehabilitation or retirement. While there have been some positives since the I-35 bridge collapse, the need for investment remains. One of the major challenges facing the nation’s bridge infrastructure is uncertainty regarding its primary federal funding source, the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). The HTF is primarily funded through the federal motor fuels tax (aka the ‘gas tax’) of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel. At the federal level, the gas tax has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has reduced its purchasing power by 40%. To make up for the dwindling value of the gas tax, since 2008, Congress has transferred $140 billion from the General Fund to the HTF including $70 billion in 2015’s FAST Act. Unless Congress takes action to fix the HTF and provide it with a sustainable and adequate funding source, they will again have to look elsewhere to find billions to fully fund the next surface transportation bill when the FAST Act expires in December 2020. With Congress talking about doing a broad tax reform package, many see an opportunity to fix the HTF. In June, 253 House members (including a majority of both Republicans and Democrats) sent a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/Graves-Norton-HTF-Letter-to-WMs-6.12.17.pdf) to the leadership of the Ways & Means Committee asking that a long-term fix for the HTF be included in their tax reform efforts. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* [graded our nation’s bridges a ‘C+.’](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) Policymakers need to take several steps to raise the grade and improve our nation’s bridges, starting with fixing the trust fund. It is imperative in order to avoid another disaster like the I-35 bridge collapse. 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infrastructure, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [The Endless Frontier Act – A Dramatic Boost for Research and Development](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/endless-frontier-act-a-dramatic-boost-for-research-and-development/) **Published:** April 22, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Endless%20Frontier%20Act%20%E2%80%93%20A%20Dramatic%20Boost%20for%20Research%20and%20Development&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, April 21, the U.S. Senate introduced a bipartisan bill — [the Endless Frontier Act](https://www.democrats.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/majority-leader-schumer-senator-young-and-representatives-khanna-and-gallagher-introduce-endless-frontier-act-with-12-bipartisan-senators-and-5-representatives-to-dramatically-increase-us-investment-and-leadership-in-science-and-tech-innovation-strengthen-economic-and-national-security-and-keep-the-us-strategically-competitive-with-china-and-other-countries) — that would increase American investments in science and technology innovation with the goal of strengthening the economy and competing worldwide. The effort is led by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Todd Young (R-IN), and would, among other initiatives, establish a new [Directorate for Technology and Innovation](https://www.democrats.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Endless%20Frontier%20Act%20Summary.pdf) in the National Science Foundation (NSF) and authorize $100 billion over five years – currently, the entire budget for NSF is just under $8.5 billion. The legislation has been [endorsed](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/04/21/statement-from-press-secretary-jen-psaki/) by President Biden and a bipartisan array of members from both the House and Senate. The Endless Frontier Act is a response to increases and advances in research made by China and other competing nations. In 2020 the National Science Board’s [State of U.S. Science & Engineering](https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsb20201) found that the rise in U.S. R&D was driven mainly by the industry, which continues to perform and fund most of the overall R&D. During this period, the share of U.S. R&D funded by the federal government declined. This decline is notable as federally funded R&D is an important source of support, particularly for the higher education sector and for the nation’s basic research enterprise. The U.S. has seen its relative share of global science and technology (S&T) activity remain unchanged or shrink. As more countries around the world develop R&D and human capital infrastructure to sustain and compete in a knowledge-oriented economy, the United States is playing a less dominant role in many areas of S&T activity. In introducing the bill, Senator Schumer stated that “this legislation will enhance American competitiveness with China and other countries by investing in American innovation, building up regions across the country to lead in the innovation economy, creating good-paying American manufacturing and high-tech jobs, and strengthening America’s research, development, and manufacturing capabilities.” Under the bill, the Directorate would have authority similar to the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the R&D arm of the Department of Defense. The major technology focus areas for the new agency include artificial intelligence and machine learning, quantum computing, natural or anthropogenic disaster prevention, biotechnology and medical technology, cybersecurity, and advanced energy solutions. ## The National Science Foundation for the Future Act The Endless Frontier bill joins the [National Science Foundation for the Future Act](https://science.house.gov/news/press-releases/science-committee-leaders-introduce-nsf-for-the-future-act), which was introduced earlier in the House and is more focused on its proposal to double the NSF funding across the board over five years. It would also create a Directorate for Science and Engineering Solutions (SES), which would be somewhat similar to the Endless Frontier’s Directorate for Technology and Innovation, but more broadly focused and more in keeping with the current culture at NSF. The Science Committee bill is viewed as an alternative to the Endless Frontier Act, which proposes appending a massive technology-focused directorate to NSF. Both [House](https://science.house.gov/hearings/reimagining-our-innovation-future) and [Senate](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/2021/4/committee-announces-full-hearing-on-april-14) Committees held hearings last week which focused on expanding the budget and mission of NSF. ## Concerns & Opportunity for the Endless Frontier Act Both bills have support among the science and engineering community; however, there are concerns that the Endless Frontier Act places an outsized focus on both technology development and the current competitive dynamic between the U.S. and China. There is further concern that it would alter the core mission of the NSF and its role in funding basic science research. In introducing the NSF for the Future Act, House Science Committee Chair Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) noted that “our competitiveness with China and other nations drives much of the national discourse around innovation because our economic and national security depends on our leadership in science and technology. However, competitiveness with China will not be possible if we do not unleash our nation’s STEM talent on the full range of challenges we face. Surely the COVID-19 pandemic has made that clear to all of us. And the fact is, researchers and students are inspired by finding solutions, whether they be to scientific or societal challenges. In this bill, we seek to inspire.” ASCE is taking this opportunity for real growth in the nation’s research and development enterprise by working with both the House and Senate as well as our coalition partners to ensure that the final version of the legislation enacted includes a commitment to both applied and basic research as well as ensuring engineering remains a critical part of that effort. ASCE is working to ensure there is a focus on revitalizing the nation’s public works infrastructure by improving function and reducing life-cycle costs; enhancing environmental quality and fostering sustainable development; improving resilience; and protecting the nation’s health, safety, welfare, and economic well-being. Among the core solutions to renewing the nation’s infrastructure in our **[2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/leadership-action/)** is the clear need for innovation. 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Initiative](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/white-house-announces-national-building-code-initiative/) **Published:** June 2, 2022 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=White%20House%20Announces%20National%20Building%20Code%20Initiative&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F06%2FASCE_national-building-code-e1674595255556.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=White%20House%20Announces%20National%20Building%20Code%20Initiative "Share on 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ASCE was pleased to see the White House recently [announce](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/06/01/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-launches-initiative-to-modernize-building-codes-improve-climate-resilience-and-reduce-energy-costs/) the National Initiative to Advance Building Codes, an effort to help state and local governments improve infrastructure by adopting the most modern building codes and standards. The Biden Administration intends to use the initiative to push recipients of federal funding to meet modernized, national building standards to the “greatest extent feasible,” and it will use $225 million from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to encourage local adoption of modernized energy codes. The National Building Code Initiative also directs Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to implement its new [Building Codes Strategy](https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_building-codes-strategy.pdf), as well as update the [Building Code Adoption Tracking](https://stantec.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=a053ac48343c4217ab4184bc8759c350) portal to identify that status of building code adoption relative to climate hazards in a community. Finally, tit commits the federal government to expanding its efforts to adopt above-code resilience and energy efficiency standards for federal buildings. The interagency initiative will be led by FEMA in conjunction with the Department of Energy, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and other relevant federal agencies. ## Infrastructure Improvements from Updated State & National Building Codes ASCE is a long-time advocate for the widespread adoption and enforcement of modern, up-to-date building codes. Since the passage of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, ASCE has strongly encouraged federal agencies to incentivize the use of modern codes and standards and the organization applauds the announcement of the National Initiative to Advance Building Codes. Programs like FEMA’s Building Resilience Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program are already requiring the use of up-to-date codes and standards and can serve as a model for other programs across the federal government. For example, the Department of Energy should require that any new projects dedicated to modernizing and hardening the electric grid follow [ASCE 74](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784410356), *Guidelines for Electrical Transmission Line Structural Loading*. At the state and local level, we are already seeing localities adopt stronger building codes to combat the impacts of a changing climate. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the City of Houston voted to require all new construction in the city’s floodplains be built two feet above the 500-year floodplain. Florida, meanwhile, has made a series of updates to their building codes over the past twenty years, including the mandated use of stronger nails, relocation of vents, and more thorough inspection processes. These are strong examples of how codes can be modernized and ASCE standards can be incorporated to strengthen a city or state’s resilience. ## ASCE Building Code Recommendations Other ASCE documents and standards that the National Initiative to Advance Building Codes should urge states and localities to adopt to enhance resilience include: - [*ASCE 7*](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7)*, Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE/SEI 7-22),* currently an integral part of U.S. building codes, describes the means for determining soil, flood, tsunami, snow, rain, atmospheric ice, earthquake, and wind loads, and their combinations for resilient structural design; - [*ASCE 24*](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/asce24)*, Flood Resistant Design and Construction,* prescribes a standard for cost effectively increasing resiliency by reducing and eliminating risks to property from flood hazards and their effects; - [*ASCE 41*](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/asce3141)*, Seismic Evaluation and Retrofit of Existing Buildings,* standardizes methods for the retrofit of existing buildings to increase resiliency in communities after a seismic event; - [*ASCE Manual of Practice 140*](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415191)*,* Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adaptive Design and Risk Management, provides guidance for and contributes to infrastructure analysis/design in a world in which risk profiles are changing due to climate change per the Fourth National Climate Assessment. Additionally, while ASCE will continue to work with the Administration and federal agencies to incentivize the use of up-to-date codes and standards, ASCE supports the development, adoption, and enforcement of a national model code as a key method of minimizing climate impact and creating disaster resilience in communities. Furthermore, ASCE urges Congress to provide robust funding to those federal agencies like National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), FEMA, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) whose mission includes both developing the data necessary for ensuring standards can address the impacts of climate change and preparing and implementing a national model code that considers increasingly strong storms. ASCE will continue working with the Administration, federal agencies, and state and local governments on the adoption of updated building codes and standards and applauds the White House for understanding the importance of updated national building codes for infrastructure resilience. 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=FAST%20Act%20Summary%20Part%20One%3A%20The%20Funding "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F12%2FASCE_fixing-americas-surface-transportation-act.jpg&description=FAST%20Act%20Summary%20Part%20One%3A%20The%20Funding "Pin it with 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newly-passed five-year federal surface transportation authorization law, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The next sections will focus on policy changes to highways, transit, and federal passenger rail programs.* The backbone of federal transportation funding is the motor fuels tax (gas tax), and these revenues are deposited in the protected Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Taxes on gasoline and diesel fuels for cars, trucks, and motorcycles, have been levied for many decades; however, the last time that the tax rate was raised was in 1993 — over 20 years ago. Since that time, federal spending on highways and transit programs has risen and the purchasing power of those dollars, as a result of rising construction and materials costs, has gone down. While the newly-passed five-year federal surface transportation authorization law, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, increased investment, it did not pay for these funding increases through a gas tax hike. Instead, the law relied on a variety of items unrelated to transportation, specifically two large offsets dealing with the Federal Reserve (Fed). ## Offsets for the FAST Act The first Fed offset is one that was heavily opposed by banks. The provision would reduce what was a 6% annual dividend paid to banks on Fed stock that they bought when becoming members of the Federal Reserve system. The reduction would impact banks with over $10 billion in assets and cut the stock dividend pay-out to match the interest rate of the highest-yield 10-year Treasury note, which would likely be around 2% This provision raises nearly $6 billion for the FAST Act. The second Fed-related offset is the largest one contained in the FAST Act and applies to the Feds capital surplus accounts. The Fed regional banks maintain various amounts of surplus cash, which totals $29 billion. The FAST Act takes $19 billion from this account and leaves a $10 billion surplus cushion at the Fed. However, due to Congressional budget scoring procedures, the amount of money actually raised for the FAST Act by doing this $19 billion draw-down is about $53 billion. This is because Congress adds up all of the money that would have been in the account over a ten-year budget horizon. Added together, these and other offsets amount to around $70 billion in new money for the HTF over the five-year life of the FAST Act. This means that at the end of the FAST Act, the HTF will have received over $140 billion in general fund transfers since it began experiencing fiscal trouble in 2008. This also means that by the end of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act, gas taxes and other transportation-related revenues will only be providing half of the dollars necessary to support investment levels, which could complicate the policy process in numerous untold ways. For example, members of Congress may then ask: “Why should this program only fund roads and transit systems (which has historically been the case) if road users and transit riders are no longer the funding basis of a large amount of the program’s revenues?” ## Funding Levels for the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act The FAST Act provides $305 billion for highway, transit, and railway programs. Of that, $233 billion is for highways, $49 billion is for transit and $10 billion is dedicated to federal passenger rail. By the end of the bill’s five-year duration, highway investment would rise by 15%, transit funding would grow by nearly 18%, and federal passenger rail investment would remain flat. Most of the percentage bump in investment will increase immediately with highways seeing a 5% jump and transit receiving a 9% jump in the first year. The funding then sees relatively flat, 2%t annual growth. The bill actually provides higher levels of funding than the Senate-passed [DRIVE Act](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-republican?ID=DFAF66C0-D453-42C3-AB84-A90BBD326E44) would have by over a cumulative $680 million over the life of the bill. The bill also contains an HTF contract authority rescission of $7.5 billion at the end of the bill (September 30, 2020). This rescission would mean that states will have to return a certain amount of unobligated highway contract authority to FHWA. It is likely that states will soon plan their programs accordingly in order to minimize the impact of this final-year budget cut. Rescissions have become common in surface transportation authorization bills as a way to bring down spending levels at the end of the law, which helps reduce the overall cost of the program for Congressional budget scoring purposes. There will likely be an effort in 2020 to eliminate or delay the implementation of the rescission. The last rescission to take [effect ](http://www.aashtojournal.org/Pages/100209rescissions.aspx)was for $8.7 billion in 2009. Here are some funding highlights for highway and transit programs: ### Highway Funding - National Highway Performance Program: Annual increases of nearly $500 million; - Surface Transportation Program: First-year increase of $1 billion and nearly $200 million on top of that annually thereafter; - Highway Safety Improvement Program: Slight increase of $50 million annually; - Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Program: ​$50 million increase in the first year and slight increase thereafter; - TIFIA Program: Heavy annual reduction from $1 billion per year to $275 million – $300 million annually throughout the bill; - Highway Research & Development Program: Slight increase; however, new eligibilities added: - $15 million annual Surface Transportation Funding Alternatives Studies program; and - $10 million annual Performance Management Data Support program. - (NEW) National Highway Freight Program: Approximately $1.2 billion annually; and - (NEW) Nationally-Significant Freight & Highways Projects Program: Approximately $900 million annually. ### Transit Funding - Formula and Bus Grants: $800 million increase in the first year and $200 million on top of that annually thereafter. Within that: - ​$90 million annual increase for Urbanized Area Formula Grants - (NEW) $28 million for Research & Development Demonstration and Deployment grant (existing FTA R&D program reduced by $50 million annually) - State of Good Repair: first-year $350 million increase and $40 million on top of that annual increase thereafter - (NEW) Bus and Bus Facility Discretionary program: approximately $300 million annually - (NEW) Fast Growth and High Density program: approximately $550 million annually. - ​Capital Investment Grants: Initial $400 million funding increase which sustains for the life of the bill - Positive Train Control Grants: $200 million provided in fiscal year 2017. ## The FAST Act & Highway Trust Fund Projections By the end of the bill, there would [be approximately $8 billion](https://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/114th-congress-2015-2016/costestimate/hr22_1.pdf) left in the highway account of the HTF and about $2 billion left in the transit account. In the years following, the HTF deficit would grow to approximately $24 billion per year. This means that any attempt to fill the budget hole through an increase in the gas tax will require a bigger increase than has ever been needed. In order to fill the recent, $15-billion annual shortfall, a 10-cent-per-gallon gas tax that was indexed to inflation was required. It can now be expected that any gas tax amount needed to fill the looming 2020 shortfall will have to be nearly double that amount, or close to a twenty-cent-per-gallon rate increase. Beyond filling the budget hole, [as the *Failure to Act* economic study shows,](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) increased investment is needed to modernize our surface transportation network. 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The [$2.3 trillion package](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2020-omnibus-stimulus-issue-brief-final.pdf) included a key ASCE priority, the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 as well as a comprehensive energy package aimed at reducing emissions. The $1.4 trillion FY 2021 appropriations provisions will fund the government through September 30, 2021, and it provides robust funding for several key programs, such as BUILD grants, transit grants, high-hazard dams, and the state revolving funds. ## The COVID Stimulus, Economic Relief Bill The $900 billion COVID-19 stimulus package was a significant legislative victory for Congress, as they had been unable to develop a bipartisan bill for months. The relief portion of the bill also provides additional funding for the vaccine rollout, stimulus checks of $600 per person for those who qualify, and an additional $300 per week in federal supplemental unemployment payments. There are also several measures that directly impact civil engineers. Meanwhile, the popular Paycheck Protection Program will receive another $284 billion for loans for small businesses and the COVID stimulus bill clarified a provision that allows businesses to deduct expenses associated with forgiven PPP loans when they file their 2020 taxes. ## Infrastructure Funding in the FY 2021 Budget, COVID Stimulus Package ASCE has been a strong advocate for granting federal assistance to state DOTs., In particular, we requested $37 billion in assistance over the next five years. While Congress’ allocation is short of the full $16 billion request for the current fiscal year, the funding will aid state DOTs to ensure that projects are not further delayed or canceled. The stimulus package provides: - $45 billion for the struggling transportation sector, including $16 billion to help airlines maintain their payrolls. - $14 billion for mass transit. - $10 billion for state highways. - $2 billion for airports. - $1 billion for Amtrak. In addition, the inclusion of the [Water Resources Development Act](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2020-wrda-issue-brief-final-passage-december.pdf) of 2020 is a significant ASCE legislative victory and ensures that WRDA maintains its biennial schedule. The bill prioritizes investment in our water resources infrastructure systems, which includes levees, dams, inland waterways, and ports. It also includes a long-term ASCE priority, the full expending of the $10 billion balance in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund by 2030. The bill also includes a comprehensive, bipartisan energy package that would aim to reduce emissions and invest in more energy-efficient infrastructure going forward. And finally, the legislation includes $7 billion to expand broadband access for low-income families in rural communities. Shortly after the COVID stimulus package passed, ASCE commended Congress for providing relief to American families, state Departments of Transportation (state DOTs), and transit agencies. ASCE looks forward to working with the 117th Congress as they continue focusing on our nation’s infrastructure. We will urge policymakers to prioritize further investments as a means of economic progress going forward. 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3684](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684), the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The bill was brought up for a vote shortly after Democrats reached a compromise agreement on a separate $1.75 trillion budget reconciliation package that addresses the social spending priorities of the Biden Administration. The bipartisan infrastructure bill passed the House by a vote of 228–206 and is expected to be signed by President Biden. ## The Historic Implication of the Infrastructure Bill This $1.2 trillion bipartisan legislation is the culmination of decades of advocacy by ASCE members. These members worked tirelessly to educate Congress and the public about the role infrastructure plays in supporting the nation’s economy and our quality of life across diverse communities. This infrastructure bill represents a historic, once-in-a-generation investment in our roads, bridges, water and wastewater networks, ports, electric grid, dams, and more. It increases funding, makes smart improvements to policy, such as streamlining permitting, and it creates new programs targeted at almost all 17 categories in the [2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/National_IRC_2021-report.pdf). The IIJA is a significant down payment on the $2.5 trillion infrastructure investment gap that was identified in the 2021 Report Card and will benefit American businesses and families for years to come. ## What the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Funds Specifically, the IIJA includes a reauthorization of our surface transportation programs, the Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act, as well as an additional $559 billion in new spending. The new spending is a combination of targeted funds for overdue state-of-good repair projects as well as forward-looking programs and policies that will increase the resiliency of our infrastructure These funds include: - $110 billion for roads, bridges, and major projects. - $66 billion for passenger and freight rail. - $65 billion for broadband internet. - $46 billion for resilience to help states and cities prepare for droughts, wildfires, climate change, and more. - $39 billion for public transit. - $17 billion for ports and waterways. The bipartisan IIJA represents a hard-fought compromise agreement and a show of commitment from Congress to make a significant down payment on America’s physical infrastructure assets. It also demonstrates a commitment to giving local communities the flexibility they need to design innovative solutions for today’s complex challenges. ASCE applauds Congress for passing the infrastructure bill and we look forward to working with the Administration to see these investments spent effectively over the coming years. [Please take a moment](https://cqrcengage.com/asce/home?0) to thank your representative for prioritizing the nation’s infrastructure and voting ‘yes’ on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Passes%20Historic%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Congress Passes FY 2023 Omnibus](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-passes-fy-2023-omnibus/) **Published:** December 22, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2023 [omnibus spending bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/JRQ121922.PDF). The bill represents an increase from the $1.5 trillion appropriations package for FY 22. The release of the bill’s text was quickly followed by action in both Chambers to meet the deadline of December 23rd, when government funding was set to expire. The Senate passed the measure December 22nd with a [68-29 vote](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_votes/vote1172/vote_117_2_00421.htm). The House quickly followed, approving the measure December 23rd with a [225-201](https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/2022549) vote. The omnibus package is comprised of all 12 annual appropriations bills and will fund the government through September 2023. Overall, the bill provides $858 billion in defense spending, representing about a 10 percent increase from the baseline, and $772.5 billion in nondefense discretionary spending, an increase less than the 7.1 percent inflation rate. Also included in the bill is nearly $45 billion in additional Ukraine aid; legislation banning the use of TikTok on government phones; the Electoral Count Act Reform, which clarifies that the vice president cannot overturn election results when Congress counts Electoral College votes; and $40 billion in funding to assist communities across the country recovering from natural disasters. The bill also does waive the statutory Pay-as-You-Go Act of 2010 for both 2023 and 2024, providing certainty for state and local governments and allowing $14 billion in subsidy payments to public entities to move forward. ASCE urged Congress to pass an appropriations package for FY 23 that maintains a strong commitment to our nation’s infrastructure systems, as well as the investments set by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the CHIPS and Science Act. Congress mostly kept that promise, with agencies like the Department of Transportation receiving more funding in FY 23 than it has ever received in a year, amounting to $144 billion. ASCE has broken down the programs that the Society has been tracking most closely. Those programs, broken out by agency, are below. **Agriculture and Rural Development.** The final bill provides nearly **$4 billion for rural development programs**, including to build sustainable rural infrastructure. Highlights include: - **$455 million for the expansion of broadband service**, including $348 million for the ReConnect program. These funds are in addition to the $2 billion provided by the IIJA. - **$1.47 billion for rural water and water program loans** and over $500 million in water and waste grants for clean and reliable drinking water systems and waste disposal systems. **Commerce-Justice-Science.** The bill provides **$1.8 billion in new funding to implement the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act** of 2022. This includes $820 million in the CJS Appropriations bill and $980 million in supplemental funding to help jumpstart the initiative. The CHIPS and Science Act sets out an ambitious goal of doubling funding for science and technology programs by 2027 to help drive U.S. economic competitiveness. Among agencies within the **Commerce-Justice-Science title** are: - **National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)** – The bill invests a total of **$1.65 billion** for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), an increase of $424 million, or 34 percent, above the FY 2022 enacted level. Among specific allocations is funding for the measurement labs and research at $953 million, a $103 million or 12 percent increase above the FY 2022 enacted level. The goal is to spur research advances in cutting-edge fields like carbon dioxide removal, artificial intelligence, quantum information science, and cybersecurity. - **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)** – The bill allocates a total of **$4.9 billion** for programs at NOAA. This is an increase of $400 million over FY 2022 funding levels. The agreement adopts the focus on “Climate Ready Nation” as contained in the House report, but does not provide the full funding levels. - The **National Science Foundation (NSF)** is funded at **$9.9 billion** ($9.54 billion in the CJS Appropriations bill and $335 million in supplemental funding), which is $1.036 billion or a 12 percent increase above the FY 2022 enacted level. This is the largest dollar increase NSF has ever received and the largest percentage increase for the Foundation in more than two decades. However, it falls short of the $11 billion called for in the CHIPS and Science Act. This funding includes $7.8 billion for NSF’s research and related activities, an increase of $680 million, or 9.5 percent, above the FY 2022 enacted level, to implement the CHIPS and Science Act, including significant support for the new Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships. - **The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)** is provided **$25.4 billion,** which is $1.34 billion more than the FY 2022 enacted level. The measure funds research at $761 million, an increase of $113 million, or 17.5 percent, above the FY 2022 enacted level. This includes a $24 million, or 12 percent, increase above the FY 2022 enacted level for climate research and an increase of $21.5 million for high performance computing upgrades, which are critical for climate modeling. **Energy and Water.** The bill provides $54.65 billion for the Energy & Water division, as well as $650 million in emergency funds. This includes: - **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers** **(USACE)** is provided $8.66 billion, representing an increase of $317 million from FY 2022. The disaster supplemental includes an additional $1.13 billion in funding. Included in the Corps funding is $2.1 billion for the USACE Construction account, which includes $297 million in emergency funds. In FY 2022 the account received $2.49 billion. The bill also includes **$7.2 million** for the **USACE WIFIA Program** (CWIFP), which is equal to the FY 22 level, **$5.1 billion for the Operations and Maintenance** account, which is an increase of $561 million from FY 2022, and the **Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund will receive $2.3 billion**, an increase of $269 million from FY 2022. - The **National Levee Safety Program** did not receive additional funding; The FY 20 funding level was $15 million and the bill states that the Appropriations Committees believe this is sufficient to bring the program through Phase 2. However, the **National Levee Inventory** did receive $12 million for FY 2023. - $500,000 for the National Dam Inventory under USACE, representing a $100,000 increase from the FY 22 level. - The **Bureau of Reclamation will receive $1.9 billion**, an increase of $30 million from FY 2022. - The **Department of Energy (DOE) is set to receive $46.5 billion** for FY 2023. The bill includes $350 million for DOE’s Electricity account to support technologies that enhance grid resilience and efficiency, which is an increase of $73 million from FY 2022 and $8.1 billion for DOE’s Office of Science, an increase of $625 million from FY 2022. **Interior and Environment.** The bill provides $38.9 billion for the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Division, an increase of $850 million from FY 2022. This includes **$10.1 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency**, which is $576 million more than FY 2022. Additionally, the bill provides $1.6 billion for wildfire preparedness and $4.6 billion in disaster funding related to wildfires, hurricanes and other natural disasters. This overall bill also includes: - **$1.639 billion for Clean Water State Revolving Fund** (CWSRF), a $35 million increase from FY 22. - **$1.126 billion for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund** (DWSRF), an increase of $13 million from FY22. - **$1.5 billion for Community Project Funding** for over 700 drinking water, wastewater, and storm water management projects across the country. - **$1.3 billion for Superfund**, an increase of $50 million above FY 2022. - **$100 million for Brownfields** cleanups, $8 million above FY 2022. - **$16 million for four new grant programs** authorized in the Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act. - **$75.6 million for WIFIA**, an increase of $6.1 million from FY 2022. - **$3.5 billion for the National Park Service**, a $210 million increase from FY 2022. - **$1.5 billion for the U.S. Geological Survey**, an increase of $103 million from FY 2022. **Homeland Security.** The bill includes $86.5 billion for the Homeland Security division, including $25.7 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is $1.5 billion above the FY 2022 level. This includes: - **$19.9 for the Disaster Relief Fund** under the Stafford Act. This includes funding for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. This is $205 million above the request. - **$9.7 million for National Dam Safety Program**, equal to the FY 22 level. - **High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant** program did not receive additional funds in FY 23; $12 million was provided in FY 22. - **$312.75 million** for FEMA’s **Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program**, an increase of $37.25 million from FY 22. - **$26.9 million for Infrastructure Security** at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. - **$8.5 million** for the **National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program** for obligations under the program. **Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies.** The 2023 THUD funding bill provides $87.3 billion, an increase of $6.3 billion compared to FY 2022 funding levels. The bill provides a total of $106.3 billion in budgetary resources for the Department of Transportation (DOT), which represents a $3.4 billion hike above FY 2022 enacted levels. Highlights include: - **$62.9 billion** for the **Federal Highway Administration**, an increase of $2.3 billion compared to FY 2022. The bill supports formula programs funded from the Highway Trust Fund that are meant to improve the safety and long-term viability of the nation’s highway systems. - **$19 billion** for the **Federal Aviation Administration**, which is $564 million above FY 2022. This amount includes $1.6 billion for aviation safety purposes and $558.6 million for discretionary airport improvement grants. - **$3.4 billion** for the **Federal Railroad Administration**, an increase of $78.9 million above FY 2022. This figure includes $560 million for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program. It also provides $2.45 billion for Amtrak, including $1.26 billion for Northeast Corridor grants and $1.19 billion for National Network grants. - **$16.9 billion** for the **Federal Transit Administration**, including $13.6 billion for transit formula grants to expand bus fleets and increase the transit state of good repair. There is also total of $2.6 billion for Capital Investment Grants and $542 million for transit infrastructure grants to assist transit agencies in purchasing low- and no-emission buses, improving urban and rural ferry systems, and carrying out local projects. - **$800 million** for national infrastructure investments (**RAISE/TIGER/BUILD**), including not less than $20 million for grants to assist areas of persistent poverty and historically disadvantaged communities. - **$896.1 million** for the **Maritime Administration**, an amount $56.4 million above President Joe Biden’s budget request, including $318 million for the Maritime Security Program and $212 million for the Port Infrastructure Development Program. - **$873.6 million** for the **Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration** and $1.2 billion for the **National Highway Traffic Safety Administration**. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Passes%20FY%202023%20Omnibus&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Congress Prioritizes Water Resources Legislation in Lame Duck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-prioritizes-water-resources-legislation-in-lame-duck/) **Published:** December 15, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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While priorities such as an omnibus appropriations bill for the 2023 fiscal year remain under discussion, Congress has used its lame-duck session to pass critical legislation on water resources infrastructure, flood mitigation, and climate resilience. The passage of these bills represent significant wins for ASCE, and will have significant long term benefits for the civil engineering community. **Final Agreement Reached on WRDA** On December 6th, the Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works (EPW) and House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) [announced a bipartisan agreement on the Water Resources Development Act of 2022](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-democratic?ID=15323DFF-0F2E-4782-B939-97E7EEE13AD2). After passing their respective bills over the summer, and engaging in discussions to resolve differences between the bills throughout the fall, committee leaders announced that their agreement would be included in the [James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023](https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/hr7776/BILLS-117hr7776eah.pdf). Inclusion in NDAA, the annual legislation which sets budgetary authorities for the Department of Defense and Armed Services, showed a commitment by both Democrats and Republicans to wrap up WRDA for 2022 by including it in what is called a “must-pass” bill. The WRDA agreement authorizes 25 new water resources projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including the construction of a storm protection barrier along the Texas Gulf Coast known as the “Coastal Spine”, which will receive $21.4 billion in Federal funds. The bill also contains several policy provisions to enhance infrastructure resilience, protect public safety, and support inland waterways projects. ASCE was actively involved in discussions with members of both the House T&I and Senate EPW Committees, [advocating for a number of priorities](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-8-12-letter-wrda2022-conference-negotiations.pdf) for WRDA throughout 2022. Several of those priorities were ultimately included in the final agreement. This year, WRDA includes provisions supporting the safety of the nation’s dams and levees. One of ASCE’s top priorities this year was reauthorization of the National Levee Safety Program, which was set to expire at the end of FY 2023. Reauthorization of this program is critical to ensuring that the Corps can continue to support states in standing up state levee safety programs, implementing national levee safety guidelines, and supporting levee monitoring and rehabilitation efforts. WRDA reauthorizes the National Levee Safety Program through FY 2028. ASCE also supported the establishment of a National Low Head Dam Inventory, which was included in both the House and Senate versions of WRDA. Low head dams are manmade, river spanning structures which produce dangerous currents and pose a hazard to public safety. By identifying and cataloguing these structures through the establishment of the Low Head Dam Inventory, dam safety officials will now be able to further strengthen public safety and prevent loss of life. A top ASCE dam safety priority which was ultimately not included in WRDA this year, was the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program. The National Dam Safety Program, which is set to expire at the end of FY 2023, provides grants to state dam safety programs to provide technical assistance, support dam monitoring and inspection, and assist with staffing needs. While WRDA has traditionally served as a vehicle for changes to the National Dam Safety Program, neither the House nor Senate took action to reauthorize the program in either of its versions of WRDA. Last year, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided more than $200 million for National Dam Safety Program activities and failing to reauthorize the program in the coming year could jeopardize that momentum, making reauthorization a top priority for ASCE in the next Congress. Finally, this year’s WRDA bill did include a provision making the current cost share formula for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) permanent. Currently, 65 percent of the cost for federal inland waterway projects are covered by general appropriations, with the remaining 35 percent covered by the IWTF. This formula was set to expire at the end of the decade. The current cost share formula, for which ASCE advocated in 2020, was adjusted in the previous WRDA from a 50-50 split. Initially, ASCE strongly supported language in the Senate’s version of WRDA which adjusted the cost share to a 75%-25% split, which ASCE recommends in the [Inland Waterways chapter of the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/)*.* To address overall costs in the bill, however, negotiators settled on language to make the current formula permanent. Regardless of the change, ASCE still views this as a step in the right direction which will provide greater certainty for inland waterway projects for years to come and will be helpful in addressing the IWTF construction backlog. The House passed NDAA with the bipartisan WRDA agreement on December 8, 2022 [by a vote of 350-80](https://clerk.house.gov/evs/2022/roll516.xml). It was passed in the Senate this Thursday by a vote of 83-11. It is now headed to President Biden’s desk for signature. Last week, [ASCE sent a letter](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-12-07-asce-letter-congressional-leadership-support-wrda.pdf) to Congressional leadership supporting the agreement and encouraged swift passage. **FLOODS Act Passes in the House** On Wednesday, December 14th, the House passed [S. 558, the Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support (FLOODS) Act](https://www.congress.gov/117/bills/s558/BILLS-117s558es.pdf). This legislation will require new measures be implemented by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to mitigate the effects of flooding, and weather events such as tornados and hurricanes. For example, the FLOODS Act requires NOAA to establish a National Integrated Flood Information System to provide timely information and data to allow communities to better predict flooding events and implement flood mitigation policies and practices. The FLOODS Act will also establish a “NOAA Precipitation Frequency Atlas of the United States” to compile and analyze data on precipitation frequency nationwide. This will allow for greater public understanding of rain patterns and fluctuating precipitation levels. The bill will also assist public officials in implementing flood and climate mitigation practices and will help inform civil engineers in designing critical infrastructure to withstand increased risks posed by flooding and increased precipitation levels. The FLOODS Act was introduced in the Senate by Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS), with companion legislation led by Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) in the House. The Senate passed by the FLOODS Act in September of 2021, and with House passage it now awaits President Biden’s expected signature. **PRECIP Act Approaches the Finish Line** Finally, on December 14th, it was announced that the Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation (PRECIP) Act would not only be coming to the House floor for final consideration, but it would also be used as the [legislative vehicle to extend Federal government funding](https://rules.house.gov/sites/democrats.rules.house.gov/files/BILLS-117HR1437EAS-RCP117-72.pdf) for an additional week. The PRECIP Act, a top legislative priority for ASCE, will require NOAA to make significant changes to the way in which it collects data on maximum precipitation levels and precipitation frequency. Under the PRECIP Act, NOAA would be required to work with the National Academies to produce a study on the current state of precipitation estimation practices, and an examination of best practices for estimating precipitation measurements. NOAA will then be required to update estimates of probable maximum precipitation within six years of release of the National Academies study, and every ten years thereafter. This legislation is essential to the civil engineering community. It will ensure that more accurate data on rainfall levels, which fluctuate greatly due to climate change, is available and can be incorporated into the design of critical infrastructure. This will help to enhance overall resilience of infrastructure systems to the increasingly harsh effects of climate change. The PRECIP Act has gone through a long process throughout the 117th Congress on its route to final passage and enactment. After being introduced in the House in February of 2021, it was marked up by the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee last November. That version was passed by the House on May 11, 2022- the same day the Senate marked up its version of the PRECIP Act, removing authorized funding levels that had been included in the House bill. The Senate’s version passed by unanimous consent on November 17, 2022. This week, the PRECIP Act- as amended and passed by the Senate- was used as a vehicle to extend Federal Government appropriations through December 23rd. The House passed the package on Wednesday by a vote of 224-201 and is expected to clear the Senate late Thursday night. President Biden will sign the package on Friday. 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[hearing](https://climatecrisis.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/solving-climate-crisis-key-accomplishments-additional-opportunities-0), the House of Representatives’ Select Committee on the Climate Crisis convened December 6th to review its accomplishments and discuss considerations for future action. Created at the start of the 116th Congress, the select committee was authorized to study and make recommendations on policies to solve the climate crisis. The future of the committee is dim, as the Republican-led House will likely direct attention to different legislative priorities when the new Congress convenes January 3rd. One of the notable accomplishments touted at the hearing was the [Inflation Reduction Act](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2022-8-12-inflation-reduction-act-memo.pdf), which provides $369 billion for energy security and climate change programs and incorporates ideas from the select committee’s majority staff report titled “[Solving the Climate Crisis](https://climatecrisis.house.gov/report#top-content).” While ASCE did not take a formal position on the Inflation Reduction Act due to its sprawling scope, ASCE was pleased to see that the legislation accounts for the impacts of climate change on the nation’s infrastructure. While many of the select committee’s members discussed the positive direction taken by the panel, Chair Kathy Castor (D-FL) insisted that the fight for climate action must continue. The witnesses, a variety of energy and public policy experts, offered their perspectives on steps to continue to meet the challenges of climate change. [Alice Hill](https://www.cfr.org/expert/alice-c-hill), senior fellow for energy and the environment at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), identified the creation of a national adaptation strategy as an essential action to increase preparedness for climate extremes. She said core elements of a national adaptation strategy should include the promotion of multi-hazard planning, the identification of a mechanism to prioritize investments, and the adjustment of cost-benefit analyses of federal investments to reflect the future benefits of resilience. Hill also stressed the importance of promoting the development of climate-resilient building codes. ASCE agrees with this assessment, as the most reliable way to ensure our nation’s infrastructure is disaster resilient is the widespread adoption and enforcement of modern, [up-to-date building codes](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7#:~:text=An%20integral%20part%20of%20building%20codes%20in%20the,loads%20and%20their%20combinations%20for%20general%20structural%20design.), combined with vital research to increase our understanding of climate hazards. ASCE remains committed to working with policymakers to develop and implement legislation that not only incentivizes the use of the most up-to-date standards, but policies that prioritize the resilience of our infrastructure systems. Increased investment in research labs, the affordability of energy, and permitting reform were also raised by lawmakers and witnesses as issues that should be addressed in the near future. [Brad Markell](https://thebreakthrough.org/people/brad-markell), executive director of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL–CIO) Industrial Union Council, said permitting reform is needed to accelerate large-scale energy projects and meet the nation’s climate goals. Looking ahead, the select committee’s majority staff plans to release a report next week outlining policies that have already been enacted and additional steps they believe are necessary to reduce the impacts of climate change. Climate and hazards mitigation is one of [ASCE’s 2023 priority issues](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/). Most infrastructure is built to provide long service lives and is expected to remain functional, durable, and safe. However, the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, combined with increasing population densities and system interdependencies, have demonstrated vulnerabilities in the nation’s infrastructure. 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Appropriations](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fy-2023-appropriations/) **Published:** October 20, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20FY%202023%20Appropriations&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FCongressGroundsAerial.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20FY%202023%20Appropriations "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Lame-Duck%20Look%20Ahead%3A%20FY%202023%20Appropriations&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")## **Lame Duck Look Ahead: FY 2023 Appropriations** When Congress returns to Washington after the midterm elections, lawmakers will have a number of legislative items to tackle, including addressing Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 appropriations for federal agencies. While the House approved all 12 of their FY 23 appropriations bills and the Senate Appropriations Committee released all 12 bills, Congress was unable to pass a full FY 23 spending package. Therefore, in late September, prior to returning to their respective constituencies for a pre-election recess, Congress passed a [continuing resolution](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/6833?r=11&s=1) (CR) to keep the government funded at current levels through December 16th. The CR included: - $12 billion in aid for Ukraine - $2.5 billion to aid communities devastated by natural disasters - $1 billion in funding for the low-income home heating program - $20 million to address the Jackson, Mississippi water crisis. The CR, however, means that Congress will need to reach an agreement on FY 23 funding levels when they reconvene after the election. Therefore, before the end of the year, lawmakers will either need to approve a full-year spending package or punt by passing another short-term spending measure, which will extend into the 118th Congress. The 118th Congress will officially open on January 3rd. ## **What to Expect for FY23 Appropriations** As we look ahead to the lame duck session, the FY23 appropriations package has the potential to attract a few legislative hitchhikers, such as Hurricane Ian relief funds, tax breaks, additional money for Ukraine, and COVID-19 and monkeypox aid. Other health-related provisions that may be attached to an omnibus bill include measures to overhaul how the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dietary supplements and bolster kidney dialysis coverage. Another big piece of legislation that may have a path forward through an appropriations bill is the [Energy Independence and Security Act.](https://www.energy.senate.gov/2022/9/manchin-releases-comprehensive-permitting-reform-text-to-be-included-in-continuing-resolution) Sen. Joe Manchin’s (D-WV) [permitting reform bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/lame-duck-look-ahead-energy-infrastructure-permitting-reform/) was ultimately left out of the CR due to resistance from both parties. The bill, however, calls for three major things: - A two-year timetable for environmental reviews of major projects under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) - A 150-day statute of limitations for court challenges to project authorization decisions - Requirements that a single environmental document prepared by a designated agency be used for project reviews and authorizations. The upcoming midterm elections, taking place across the country on November 8th, may also present implications for a spending bill. If Republicans win majorities in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, they could choose to defer passing a full-year omnibus bill until after the new Congress convenes. In May, ASCE sent appropriators our organization’s top funding priorities for FY 23. Those letters included requests to the subcommittees on [Commerce, Justice, and Science;](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-5-6-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65401&elqTrackId=08B42C6736389FFE63ED97D7E8837AF3&elq=212f21176c664fd28434091f0c16d806&elqaid=28572&elqat=1) [Energy and Water;](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-5-6-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65397&elqTrackId=991C93F50E6FCA4FC756799924C3006E&elq=212f21176c664fd28434091f0c16d806&elqaid=28572&elqat=1) [Homeland Security;](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-5-6-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65400&elqTrackId=DF2063291B0C84B7F2E9B8FC7EEBB12C&elq=212f21176c664fd28434091f0c16d806&elqaid=28572&elqat=1) [Interior and Environment;](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-5-6-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65399&elqTrackId=627E093BEA6BBC6F3303A79ED7419443&elq=212f21176c664fd28434091f0c16d806&elqaid=28572&elqat=1) and [Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-5-6-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65398&elqTrackId=6F98EA18C1AE960587375F124C82F2AF&elq=212f21176c664fd28434091f0c16d806&elqaid=28572&elqat=1). ## **Implementation of the IIJA in FY 23** In terms of the implementation of the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684/) (IIJA), the CR will not be as restrictive on highway formula funding in FY 23 as it was in 2022. Last year’s CR made deployment of the IIJA challenging because it held transportation program spending at FY 2021 levels. This meant that state and local transportation agencies were prevented from accessing the substantial funding increases for existing formula programs and obligating funds for new formula programs created by the law. This time around, a CR will provide funding at the levels set after the huge jump in first-year IIJA funds. Total highway formula funding in FY 22 was $59.3 billion, which was a $15.9 billion increase over [Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/) levels. The highway formula bump in FY 23 is $752 million, which is not nearly as drastic as an increase. On October 11th, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) announced it is releasing $59.9 billion in apportioned funding for FY 23. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico are receiving the funds to help them continue rebuilding roads and bridges. Funding levels were also released for new programs, such as the [Carbon Reduction Program](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-10-14-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=65322&elqTrackId=877DD849B4709BF424FB68EC2AAF892D&elq=2e846da5167d42b1bf51cfcc3ca88acc&elqaid=29638&elqat=1) and the [National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-10-14-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=66365&elqTrackId=2B79004430CB1C8FCC451D142C053156&elq=2e846da5167d42b1bf51cfcc3ca88acc&elqaid=29638&elqat=1), as well as existing programs, including the [Surface Transportation Block Grant](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-10-14-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=58607&elqTrackId=5A95E8E71C6ED3ADE711EF95A7571E75&elq=2e846da5167d42b1bf51cfcc3ca88acc&elqaid=29638&elqat=1) (STBG) program. ASCE will continue closely following the FY 23 appropriations process during the lame-duck period. 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ASCE-supported measures are still in play and may ultimately be enacted. As a broad issue, infrastructure resilience received serious attention in Washington during 2022 as both Congress and the Administration focused on various initiatives to make the nation’s infrastructure more resilient. For decades, ASCE has been a leader in successfully advocating for the resilience of our nation’s infrastructure, which resilience even identified as a [key solution](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/resilience/) across all categories in the 2021 Report Card. With the recent passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), we now have a unique opportunity to modernize all 17 categories of infrastructure that we graded in the [2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). With the success of IIJA, ASCE is now working to advocate for optimizing these investments and ensure that we are truly building for the 21st Century. ASCE is committed to furthering the discussion on resilience and sustainability, and will continue to work with federal, state, and local governments to see that the most up-to-date codes and standards are being adopted. ASCE takes every opportunity to champion the importance of resilience, be it through research programs, data collection, standards development, and building code adoption and enforcement. As stewards of our public infrastructure, we must not only ensure that future climate, as well as all other risks, are fully reflected in the design, construction, and maintenance of assets, but find ways for codes, standards, and guidelines to evolve accordingly. That message has found receptive ears in both the Administration and on Capitol Hill; where there is growing recognition that just revitalizing our infrastructure is not enough, we must also make it more resilient. The White House has taken the lead by creating its [National Initiative to Advance Building Codes](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/06/01/fact-sheet-biden-harris-administration-launches-initiative-to-modernize-building-codes-improve-climate-resilience-and-reduce-energy-costs/) that will help state, local, tribal, and territorial governments adopt the latest building codes and standards, enabling communities to be more resilient to hurricanes, flooding, wildfires, and other extreme weather events that are intensifying due to climate change. Additionally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to roll out and reinforce its Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program after several infusions of cash. Meanwhile, Congress has also been active with well over a hundred bills addressing resilient infrastructure in some manner. While many are introduced to “make a statement,” several are moving through Congress and are actively supported by ASCE. Among those are: - the [National Climate Adaptation and Resilience Strategy Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3531), which would seek to streamline the federal response to climate hazards that threaten human health and well-being, critical infrastructure, and natural systems. - the [Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation (PRECIP) Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/1437), which would require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to update precipitation frequency estimates every five years, and study best practices and research needs for estimating precipitation levels. - the [Resilient Assistance for Mitigation for Environmentally Resilient Infrastructure and Construction by Americans or Resilient AMERICA Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/5689/text), which would provide a number of enhancements to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) disaster mitigation and resilience programs. - the [Resilient Transit Act](https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-resilient-transit-act-to-protect-subways-and-public-transit-systems-from-extreme-weather-events), which would provide investments for resilience improvement projects in the public transportation sector. - the [Disaster Resiliency Planning Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/3510), which requires federal agencies to incorporate resilience into decisions when prioritizing investments across their portfolios. While the 117th Congress draws to a close, these bills are in various stages of the legislative process and may yet be enacted as stand-alone bills, added to other “must-pass” measures, or become part of the final Omnibus Appropriations Act, which is usually the last act of each Congress in recent years. ASCE will continue to work with our coalition partners and members of Congress to seek final passage of as many of these measures as possible. Of course, any of these measures not adopted by the end of the year will almost certainly reappear in the next Congress. ASCE will be back, too, advocating for these and other legislation that seeks to ensure that resilience is central to all infrastructure investments. 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proposed climate action plans drafted by Federal agencies. Plans drafted by [26 agencies](https://www.sustainability.gov/adaptation/) were submitted to the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) on October 6, 2021 in accordance with [Executive Order 14008](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/27/executive-order-on-tackling-the-climate-crisis-at-home-and-abroad/), *Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad.* This Executive Order set out to establish a comprehensive strategy to address climate change, including making climate change a central component of U.S. foreign policy and national security, establishing a government wide approach, and requiring agencies to outline actions it is taking to strengthen resilience, adaptation, and incorporation of climate change science into its facilities, operations, and policies. ASCE supports efforts to address the effects of climate change, and efforts to strengthen and support climate resilience and adaptation for development of the nation’s infrastructure. In keeping with this, ASCE carefully reviewed the plans submitted to CEQ, with a particular focus on three agencies: the [Department of Transportation (DOT)](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2021-1105-dot-public-comment-to-council-on-environmental-quality-on-us-dot-climate-adaptation-plan.pdf), the [Department of Energy (DOE)](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2021-1105-doe-public-comments-to-council-on-environmental-quality-on-us-doe-climate-adaptation-and-resilience-plan.pdf), and the [Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2021-1105-epa-public-comments-to-council-on-environmental-quality-on-us-epa-climate-action-plan.pdf). After consulting with our members, ASCE submitted comments to CEQ on November 5, 2021. Below is a brief synopsis of the issues addressed in ASCE’s comments. ## **Department of Transportation** ASCE recognizes the effects of climate change such as extreme storms, droughts, and floods have the potential to seriously impact the infrastructure network operated and maintained by DOT. These impacts could require modified design practices, increased maintenance costs, and measures to address the threat of rising sea levels and damage to critical infrastructure facilities. Specific to DOT, ASCE requested special consideration of building codes and standards, risk management, and climate change research. According to [the plan](https://www.sustainability.gov/pdfs/dot-2021-cap.pdf), DOT is currently identifying and prioritizing adaptation strategies that increase the climate resilience of existing buildings based on identified vulnerabilities. Modern, updated building codes are a reliable way to ensure infrastructure is resilient, and ASCE supports funding for research needed to develop model building codes. [ASCE 7](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7) is one of several of the Society’s documents that offers a basis for designing structures that can reasonably withstand the ever-increasing impacts of climate change. As the DOT works to ensure the resilience of facilities for the upcoming year, we urge the consideration of the most up-to-date codes and standards as an integral part of that effort. ASCE supports DOT’s recommendation to use a risk management framework to identify and incorporate critical adaptation actions into capital improvement projects and design standards. Asset management strategies can also serve as useful tools to help government agencies prioritize investment decisions and determine repairs. This practice involves managing infrastructure capital assets to minimize the total cost of operating them while maintaining a desired level of service for customers. ASCE believes education and research efforts regarding resilience at a DOT level would assist in positioning the agency to address climate-related challenges associated with the nation’s critical transportation infrastructure. ASCE supports funding for additional basic and applied research efforts and the development of national standards in support of initiatives that increase the safety and resilience of the nation’s vast infrastructure against natural and man-made disasters. ## **Department of Energy** Increasingly severe weather events caused by climate change pose significant risks to the nation’s energy infrastructure. In 2021 alone, a severe winter storm in Texas, as well as a category 4 hurricane in Louisiana, left millions without power, and in many cases without access to clean water. This was a result of failure to ensure the energy grids in these states were able to stand up to the effects of stronger storm systems. In its comments, ASCE recommended that DOE place priority on addressing the resilience of electric grids, and again, the implementation of effective building codes and standards. Among the priority actions laid out in DOE’s [Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan](https://www.sustainability.gov/pdfs/doe-2021-cap.pdf), incorporation of grid hardening and modernization measures is highlighted as a key tool for implementing climate adaptation and mitigation policies. ASCE strongly supports these actions and encouraged DOE in its comments to engage with key stakeholders such as state and local governments, energy providers, and the civil engineering community to ensure grid resilience and modernization remains a priority. We also strongly recommended more proactive steps to achieve these goals, including the development of a national “storm hardening” plan, identifying risks to energy security in the electric power grid, and promoting reliability and resilience in power generation and transmission. DOE’s plan also includes the adoption of building codes and standards as an essential implementation method. ASCE strongly supports this approach and highlighted several ASCE produced standards and guidelines specific to energy systems. These include [ASCE 74](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415566), Guidelines for Electrical Transmission Line Structural Loading; [ASCE 113](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784409350), Substation Structure Design Guide; and [ASCE 141](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415245), Wood Pole Structures for Electrical Transmission Lines. ## **Environmental Protection Agency** Climate change poses significant threat to the nation’s infrastructure. Rapidly changing weather patterns and temperatures threaten to limit access to clean water, hinder coastal development, and negatively impact infrastructure designs which are based on storm frequency. Any approach to mitigating the effects of climate change needs to account for these changing conditions, ensure proper design, and work with essential stakeholders. In its comments on [EPA’s Climate Adaptation Action Plan](https://www.sustainability.gov/pdfs/epa-2021-cap.pdf), ASCE encouraged the agency to effectively engage with the civil engineering community, implement proper building codes and standards, and account for future threats and challenges. Among the priority actions EPA lays out in its action plan is engaging with essential stakeholders its rule making, policies, and enforcement actions. It lists engagement with state and local governments and other stakeholders to strengthen adaptive capacity and increase resilience. ASCE specifically recommended that EPA ensure it engages effectively with the civil engineering community. The comments note that civil engineers are responsible for the planning, design, construction, operations, and maintenance of physical infrastructure and should be viewed as essential stakeholders in EPA’s processes. Doing so will ensure that policies account for up to date science, community needs, and up to date standards and codes. As with other agency plans, EPA identifies implementation of resilience and adaptation measures for its facilities and critical infrastructure. ASCE again reiterated in its comments to EPA that the most reliable way to ensure infrastructure resilience is adoption and enforcement of modern building codes and standards. These tools are an essential component of civil engineering, and widespread adoption will help ensure that EPA is able to effectively implement policies that strengthen the resilience and adaptability of the nation’s, as well as its own infrastructure. ASCE was encouraged by EPA’s recognition of the challenges posed by future threats of increasingly sever weather patterns and the effects that they have on the natural and built environment, including more severe wildfires, decreased water supplies, and physical threats to electric grids and water treatment systems. ASCE noted that strengthening the best available science and data is critical to infrastructure design, and supports efforts to ensure that the most accurate and up to date information is available to civil engineers for designing infrastructure systems to with stand the challenges posed by ever changing conditions. ASCE appreciates the efforts of these agencies to put forward these necessary action plans, as well as the opportunity to provide comment to strengthen and support their future development. We will continue to monitor the formulation of these action plans and remain available to assist in the implementation of the actions laid out by federal agencies. ***This post was written with contributions from Matthew McGinn and Eleanor Lamb.*** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Submits%20Public%20Comments%20on%20Agency%20Climate%20Action%20Plans&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Submits%20Public%20Comments%20on%20Agency%20Climate%20Action%20Plans "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Biden%20Releases%20Full%20Budget%20Request "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Biden%20Releases%20Full%20Budget%20Request&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The full details of the Administration’s [Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 budget](https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/) were released on Friday, May 28 and include the full scope of the Biden Administration’s “American Jobs Plan.” The $6 trillion federal spending plan for FY22 seeks to invest heavily in several government agencies to boost infrastructure and education, expand affordable housing, bolster public health, and confront climate change. The broader proposal largely tracks with top line figures and overall goals for President Biden’s infrastructure plan, proposing in the first five years to spend $293 billion above baseline on transportation programs, and $596 billion additional over the next decade. It is also important to note that all the funding proposed as a part of the American Jobs Plan is on the mandatory side of the budget, meaning that the funding would be direct spending provided by the authorizing committees and not the Appropriations Committee. Additionally, while the American Jobs Plan is an 8-year plan, the FY 22 budget proposed by the President would spend most of that money in the first five years. Among the crosscutting themes of the budget is resilience. The budget includes $50 billion for infrastructure resilience scattered across 29 different programs at several different federal agencies. Additionally, the budget includes $36 billion in overall climate spending, an increase from the $14 billion in FY21. With Democrats holding razor-thin majorities in Congress, appropriations may increase somewhat, but are unlikely to match the massive jump proposed by the White House. Among the specific budget requests: ## **Department of Transportation** The budget requests $88.2 billion in discretionary spending for the **Department of Transportation (DOT)**. This represents an increase of $352 million, or .4% increase, from the FY21 enacted level and excludes additional funding that would be provided under the American Jobs Plan. Included under the increase in discretionary programs is: - $ 2.7 billion, a 35% increase, for Amtrak; - $2.5 billion, a 23% increase, for Capital Investment Grants (CIG); - $18.5 billion, a 2.7% increase, for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA); - $1 billion for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which includes a $50 million increase for Vehicle Safety Programs; and - $1 billion for the RAISE (formerly BUILD) grant program, which is unchanged from the FY21 enacted level. Beyond the topline requests, the President’s FY22 budget request assumes that there will be $13 billion available in the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF) and that the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) will spend down $11 billion. However, the budget also assumes that the HTF will bring in roughly $42 billion a year over the next ten years. ## **Environmental Protection Agency** The President has proposed a $2 billion increase for the **Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)**, bringing the agency’s funding up to $11.2 billion for FY22 if enacted, including $3.6 billion dedicated to water infrastructure. The proposed water infrastructure funding does not include an additional $45 billion for lead pipe replacement, as well as an additional $111 billion to fix the nation’s water infrastructure, which is in the American Jobs Plan. The increased funding would be aimed at additional money for clean water grants, state environmental programs, research, and development in partnership with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Advanced Research Projects Agency-Climate (ARPA-C) program and a new environmental justice initiative. More specifically the EPA budget request includes: - $3.2 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds, an increase of $460 million from FY21 enacted levels; - $5.1 billion for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants account; - $900 million for the Accelerating Environmental and Economic Justice Initiative; - $882 million for the Superfund Remedial program; - $75 million dedicated to PFAS studies and enforceable limits; and - $80 million for the EPA’s WIFIA program. ## **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers** The FY22 budget request calls for a 13% spending cut, or $1 billion, to $6.8 billion for the **Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)**. This baseline number does not include the additional $17 billion that the President proposes for the nation’s ports and inland waterways as a part of the American Jobs Plan. The proposal would provide $1.8 billion for the construction account, $2.5 billion for operations and maintenance, $270 million for the Mississippi River and its tributaries, $204 million for the regulatory program, and $35 million for flood control. The budget also includes $3.4 billion for the study, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of inland and coastal navigation projects. As a part of the budget request for the USACE, the Administration has included three key objectives for the agency: increasing infrastructure and ecosystem resilience to climate change, while decreasing climate risk for communities based on the best available science; promoting environmental justice; and not funding work that directly subsidizes fossil fuels. ## **Department of Energy** The **Department of Energy’s (DOE)** budget request is $46.2 billion, up significantly from the $39.62 billion enacted for FY21. The biggest benefactor of this increase would be the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which provides zero grant funding to support the administration’s efforts to reach net zero emissions by 2035. The request includes $1.9 billion for a Building Clean Energy Projects and Workforce Initiative to push carbon free electricity by 2035 through incentives and energy efficiency standards, along with streamlined transmission permitting. More than $8 billion would go toward quadrupling clean energy research within four years. **DOE’s Office of Science** would get a 5.3%, $374 million increase to $7.4 billion. Among its six research programs, biological and environmental research is the biggest beneficiary, getting a 10%, or $75 million, increase to $828 million. Other programs focused on physics, fusion energy, and advanced computing would get smaller boosts. The office would also get $78 million to help launch ARPA-C, which aims to accelerate the development of climate-friendly technologies. DOE’s existing ARPA-Energy would get a 17%, or $73 million boost to $500 million. The budget request also calls for DOE to establish a new Office of Clean Energy Demonstration that would get $400 million to begin testing large, “commercial scale” solutions to industry challenges. ## **Department of the Interior** The Department of the Interior would receive an increase of $2.5 billion to $17.4 billion for FY22. Much of that spending would be dedicated to expanding renewable energy on public lands, as well as increase the department’s overall workforce. The National Park Service would receive a 12% increase, with a proposed budget of $3.5 billion. This includes funding made possible by the Great American Outdoors Act, which will support 36 projects, totaling over $1 billion in construction, which will address more than $835 million in deferred maintenance needs. ## **Science Agencies** The President’s plan includes a 9% increase, or $13.5 billion, in total federal spending on Research and Development (R&D), bringing the total to $171 billion. Spending on basic research would rise by 10%, or $4.4 billion, to $47.4 billion, whereas applied research would get a 14% bump or $6.3 billion, to $51.1 billion. The budget “proposes historic increases in funding for foundational R&D across a range of scientific agencies,” Biden said in a statement, including what he asserts is “the biggest increase in non-defense research and development spending on record.” **National Science Foundation (NSF)** budget would grow by 20%, a $1.7 billion jump to nearly $10.2 billion. The biggest change is the addition of a seventh research directorate intended to move research more quickly into the marketplace – mirroring proposals in the Endless Frontier Act. The new directorate would start with a $865 million budget, including the transfer of some $350 million in existing programs. NSF’s education and workforce training programs would get a 16% boost, including increasing the number of new prestigious graduate research fellowships from 2000 to 2500. If NSF gets the additional dollars, the agency projects it would make 20% more awards to individual scientists, with average grant sizes rising by nearly 15%. The **National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)** would get a big boost to both its research and industrial programs. Spending on NIST’s research labs would grow by $124 million, to $916 million, and its investment in a network of manufacturing institutes would more than double, to $442 million. Overall NIST funding would increase by 45% to almost $1.5 billion. The **National Aeronautics and Space Administration** (NASA) overall $24.8 billion request, an increase of 6.6%, includes a 12% increase to the earth science portfolio with much of that spending focused on preparing for the Earth System Observatory, a series of satellites that will offer insights into two long-standing wild cards of climate change—clouds and aerosols—while providing new details about the temperatures and chemistry of the planet’s changing surface. The proposal expects NASA to spend nearly $700 million annually on the observatory satellites by 2026, with the first launch in 2027. The **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration** (NOAA) would be provided a $1.4 billion increase to $6.9 billion, the largest in the agency’s history, if approved by Congress. The increase would expand resources to support the agency, whose responsibilities include weather forecasting, climate research and services, ocean research, the health of the nation’s fisheries and protection of endangered marine species. ## **Department of Education** The **Department of Education** would receive $102.8 billion Budget Authority, a $29.8 billion or 41% increase above the FY21 appropriation. Included is $50 billion over five years to rebuild and modernize public K-12 schools and $100 billion over 10 years to bring high-quality, reliable broadband to all American families. Additionally, the proposed budget adds a $2.6 billion increase for a total of $17.5 billion for special education programs, which includes the ASCE supported K-12 STEM Education program. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Biden%20Releases%20Full%20Budget%20Request&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, Uncategorized --- ### [Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework Hits Speed Bump](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-infrastructure-framework-hits-speed-bump/) **Published:** July 22, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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bipartisan infrastructure framework failed (49-51), as was expected. The procedural vote required 60 votes to open debate on the package, crafted by a group of 22 Senators for months. Luckily, the failed motion to proceed is more of speed bump than a roadblock and ASCE remains cautiously optimistic that the Senate will still move a bipartisan infrastructure bill this summer. Majority Leader Schumer (D-NY) brought up the vote, even though negotiations are ongoing, causing Republicans to vote down the measure and urge for bill text before debate begins. Senator Schumer opted to move forward with the vote to put pressure on negotiators, as the calendar continues to slip. Therefore, while this vote failed, Congressional sources have indicated that a final agreed upon bill is near as they race against the clock to tie up loose ends on pay-fors and the transit title and Senator Schumer is expected to bring back up the procedural vote as early as Monday. Furthermore, Republican negotiators have publicly stated that once they have bill text, they intend to vote in support of the motion to proceed, meaning a vote early next week should pass and clear the way for the Senate to vote on a final package before the August recess. However, nothing is certain currently and ASCE strongly urges members to continue to reach out to their Senators in support of the bipartisan framework. **The time is now to push to get federal infrastructure legislation over the finish line, and we need your help.** As a valued constituent, your voice is critical to the public policy making process and Senators needs to hear how the infrastructure package will impact communities back in their home states. To guide you in your public mobilization, ASCE created an [engagement toolkit](https://collaborate.asce.org/communities/community-home/digestviewer/viewthread?GroupId=9259&MessageKey=05aa09d1-ed62-4c25-8b04-abba216cfb65&CommunityKey=a190331e-c514-4102-868e-14270b996553&tab=digestviewer&ReturnUrl=%2fcommunities%2fcommunity-home%2fdigestviewer%3fcommunitykey%3da190331e-c514-4102-868e-14270b996553%26tab%3ddigestviewer) which walks you through how to talk action with easy-to-use templates, social media copy, and graphics. The toolkit provides you with all the resources that you need to contact your Senators, as well as how to spread the word to your networks. The time for engagement has never been more important as Congress is on the precipice to pass an infrastructure package that would address the funding needs across our nation’s infrastructure categories. We cannot let this unique opportunity pass us by and we urge you to lend your support today. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20Ohio%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%202021%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Thursday, the Ohio Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released its 2021 Report Card for Ohio’s Infrastructure, the Section’s first report in more than a decade. Ohio civil engineers gave 16 categories of infrastructure an overall grade of “C-“, slightly ahead of the national average of “D+” given in 2017. Graded categories included bridges (C+), dams (C-), drinking water (D+), energy (C), hazardous waste (D+), inland waterways (D+), levees (D), parks (C-), ports (C), rail (B), roads (D), schools (C+), solid waste (B-), stormwater (D+), transit (D) and wastewater (C-). Speakers for the event included U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, Chairman, Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee; U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson, District 12, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure; Craig Hebebrand, P.E., ASCE Ohio Council president; Jim Pajk, P.E., past president ASCE Ohio Council and the Central Ohio Section; current Ohio Section treasurer; member of the ASCE National Public Policy Committee; Lloyd MacAdam, P.E., P.S., Chief Engineer, Ohio Department of Transportation; Boris Slogar, P.E., Chief Engineer, Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District; India L. Birdsong, General Manager, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority. Rail infrastructure received the highest grade of a B, citing significant investment in technology that improves crossing safety and cut the volume of incidents in half over the last 20 years. Ohio has the fourth largest number of public rail/highway grade crossings in the country (5,737) and the state spends about $15 million annually at public crossings to reduce crashes. “Infrastructure plays a vital role in the lives of Ohio’s residents and tourists, and supports commerce for local businesses and freight,” said U.S. Rep. Troy Balderson, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “Ohio’s roadways and bridges carry the third-highest freight volume in the U.S. and accommodate the sixth-most vehicle miles travelled, making our state an essential tool in the national economy.” ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Screenshot-2021-02-11-10.10.09-400x225.jpg)Rep Troy Balderson on the importance of infrastructure investmentInnovation and data-based decision-making were key themes in the report. For example, many Ohio water systems are now implementing advanced metering systems that capture individual usage and allows both system managers and customers to access data and make better water usage decisions. This is an important step since aging water distribution networks are expected to cause a 36% increase in pipeline breaks over the next 20 years. Ohio’s energy utilities are also making major investments. Using smart grid telemetry, many utilities can now locate outages in an automated way – a tool that improves safety for utility personnel during and after storms and removes the responsibility for ratepayers to report outages. Innovative practices such as these are important for addressing aging systems. Levees, roads and transit all received the lowest grade of ‘D.’ Ohio’s levees protect 151,000 residents and $27.5 billion in property, yet 54% of those residents are living behind a levee which has not been screened. The average age of Ohio’s levees is 47 years, nearing their projected design life of 50 years. The report notes the extensive and long-term lack of transit funding that decreased from $42.3 million in 2000 to $6.6 million in 2018. In 2019, the passage of H.B. 62 was intended to increase state funding for transit to $70 million in 2020 and 2021. Due to COVID-19, those funds have already been reduced to $66.8 million and $56 million. Similarly, the 2019 transportation budget increased the motor fuel tax and vehicle registration fees, but with fewer people driving due to COVID-19, motor fuel tax revenues have fallen short of original projections. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, such as: - Create incentives for state and local governments as well as the private sector to invest in maintenance and to improve the efficiency and performance of existing infrastructure. - Improve land use planning at the local level to consider the function of existing and new infrastructure, the balance between the built and natural environments, and population trends in communities of all sizes. “For years, America’s infrastructure was the envy of the world. But for too long now, we’ve failed to invest the necessary resources in our nation’s roads, bridges, schools and technology. I’m committed to working with President Biden and my colleagues in Congress to invest in our state’s infrastructure needs, create jobs for American workers and get our nation moving again,” said U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, Chairman, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs. 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[Congress Begins 2022 WRDA Process with Key Hearings](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-2022-wrda-process-with-key-hearings/) **Published:** January 13, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20Begins%202022%20WRDA%20Process%20with%20Key%20Hearings&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20Begins%202022%20WRDA%20Process%20with%20Key%20Hearings "Share on 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Assistant Secretary of the Army for Public Works Michael Connor and Chief of Engineers Lieutenant General Scott Spellmon with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers appeared before [House Transportation & Infrastructure Water Resources Subcommittee](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/proposals-for-a-water-resources-development-act-of-2022-administration-priorities) and the [Senate Environment & Public Works Committee](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=6A280AE4-5D19-401F-BF83-A7DE5B6F7EDF) on Wednesday, January 12 to outline Biden Administration priorities for water infrastructure development in the coming year. The hearings represented the first public activity on the biennial legislation. In both hearings, Assistant Secretary Connor and Lieutenant General Spellmon highlighted the importance of the WRDA process being carried out every two years. The predictability of a bill being passed every two years provides the opportunity to effectively plan new projects and for the implementation of new policies. It also ensures Corps has the authorities, policies, and regulations to ensure the Army’s mission to support engineering solutions to support the nation’s security, economy, and ability to respond to disaster. House and Senate committee members posed numerous questions on a wide variety of topics, including implementation of water infrastructure projects in their districts, ranging from dam safety and removal projects, flood management, and port and inland waterway projects. Water Resources Subcommittee Chairwoman Grace Napolitano (D-CA) asked the witnesses about the Biden Administration’s priorities for the upcoming WRDA. Assistant Secretary Connor emphasized the Army’s broad focus on key areas such as improving infrastructure resilience, enhancing environmental justice, and addressing ongoing supply chain issues. Connor also specified the administration’s focus on proposed Corps projects laid out in its [2021 Report to Congress on Future Water Resources Development](https://transportation.house.gov/download/2021-report-to-congress). These projects include coastal zone management projects in Connecticut, improvements and increased resources for stormwater management systems in Mississippi, and other water infrastructure improvements in California, Florida, and Illinois. Lieutenant General Spellmon expressed support for maintaining the Corps’ ability to continue monitoring the resilience of levees in New Orleans in the face of climate change. He expressed his hope that the 2022 WRDA would assist the Corps’ efforts to safely deliver quality projects on time and under budget. In 2020, ASCE [supported several WRDA priorities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-legislative-victory-passage-of-wrda-2020/) which were included in the final bill. These priorities included unlocking the full balance of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund balance, inclusion of resilience measures encouraging nature-based infrastructure solutions, and technical changes to the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program. This year, ASCE will continue to focus on priorities that strengthen the nation’s infrastructure, including building on recent success in improving dam safety. ASCE is continuing to advocate for technical improvements and increased resources for the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Grant Program, as well as the National Dam Safety Program. Both of these programs received critical resources in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and ASCE continues to advocate for programs like these through its support of the [Twenty First Century Dams Act](https://kuster.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=3762). ASCE is encouraged by Congressional support for dam safety through IIJA, as well as support from the Biden Administration, which recently announced the creation of a new Director position for the National Dam Safety Program within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and appointing Mr. Kayed Lakhia to serve in the position. ASCE continues to remain engaged with Congressional offices, committees, and stakeholders to ensure the 2022 WRDA addresses critical priorities. In the coming weeks, ASCE will present Congress with various priorities for the upcoming bill that will support safety and resilience, efficient regulation, and modern and sustainable infrastructure. 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office, President Biden announced an extensive response to the COVID-19 pandemic known as the [American Rescue Plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/legislation/2021/01/20/president-biden-announces-american-rescue-plan/) – a $1.9 trillion package directed to provide relief amid pandemic impacts. Last week, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) released a Congressional budget [blueprint](https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/2121-0) that would order key Congressional committees to begin drafting the American Rescue Plan. Democratic Leadership’s ‘budget blueprint’ is known as a budget resolution, a legislative tool available to Congress to quickly pass legislation. Under this process, the following steps occur: 1. Both the [House](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-concurrent-resolution/11?) and [Senate](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-concurrent-resolution/5?) passed a budget resolution, which contain reconciliation instructions to House and Senate committees to report, legislation making fiscal changes. A budget resolution is exempt from filibuster in the Senate, needing only a simple majority for approval and must be related to legislation that relates to spending, revenue, or the federal debt limit. 2. Each House and Senate committee that received reconciliation instructions marks up and approves legislation consistent with its reconciliation directives. 3. Both the House and Senate Budget Committees collect the reconciliation submissions from each committee that receives instructions, packages them together without change into one bill, and reports that bill to their respective chamber. 4. The House and Senate then debate and, possibly, amend the reconciliation bills. The House can prohibit amendments to a reconciliation bill, while the Senate has to allow an unlimited number of amendments to be offered and voted on. 5. A House-Senate conference committee produces one single compromise reconciliation bill, which the House and Senate then pass and the President signs. Under the current reconciliation instructions, 12 House and 11 Senate authorizing committees (each chamber has jurisdictional differences) develop legislation under the following budget limits for relevant infrastructure committees. Because of the impeachment trial, the Senate has not begun to markup legislation. That being said, key House committees have begun the process: ## **House Committees:** - [Transportation and Infrastructure](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/02/08/2021/full-committee-markup) – $95 billion. *Under this committee’s legislation, $42.5 billion is directed towards transportation with $30 billion being provided as transit agency relief, $8 billion provided for airports, and $1.5 billion provided as Amtrak relief.* - [Oversight and Reform](https://oversight.house.gov/legislation/hearings) – $350 million. *Under this committee’s legislation, $195 billion is provided for state and local relief and $130 billion is divided evenly between cities and counties.* - Education and Labor – $357 million - Energy and Commerce -$188 million - Small Business- $50 billion - Ways and Means – $940 billion ## Senate Committees:** - Banking (transit) – $89 billion - Commerce (aviation, rail, ports) – $36 billion - Environment and Public Works (highways, bridges) – $3 billion - Finance – $1.2 trillion - Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions – $305 billion - Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs – $51 billion - Small Business – $50 billion While the budget reconciliation process continues on Capitol Hill, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and Transportation Secretary Buttigieg met with Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee Chair Tom Carper (D-DE), Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Sen. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) to discuss the first steps in developing an infrastructure package. While much remains uncertain, EPW is planning to hold a hearing later this month on surface transportation with the final goal of providing a bill before Memorial Day. Additional COVID-19 relief is critical to support our nation’s infrastructure system. As Congress moves towards economic recovery, ASCE continues to urge lawmakers to make strong investments to ensure we have an infrastructure system fit for the 21st century. As Congress continues to address the needs of the nation and the profession in the next relief package, ASCE will continue to work closely with Congress and the Administration to ensure our communities receive the relief they so desperately need. 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Plan](https://rules.house.gov/bill/117/hr-PIH-american-rescue-plan) – a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package which provides critical relief across the economy and our nation’s infrastructure. This legislation is President Biden’s first legislative victory and the third round of federal COVID-19 relief. Following the [budget reconciliation process](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-moves-on-covid-19-relief-through-budget-reconciliation-process/) the original version of the relief package [passed the House](https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/202149) last week, but the Senate amended and approved the legislation on a [party-line vote](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=117&session=1&vote=00110) this past Saturday. The amended legislation then headed back to the House where it passed [220-211](https://clerk.house.gov/Votes/202172) and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. For the civil engineering profession, Congress provided the following relief amounts: ## **Transportation and Infrastructure:** - $30.5 billion for grants to transit agencies for use for operating expenses, including payroll and personal protective equipment costs. This includes $26.1 billion for Urbanized Area Formula Grants, $2.21 billion for urban and rural area grantees that require additional assistance due to the pandemic, $1.7 billion for Capital Investment Grants, $281 million in operating assistance formula grants for states to support rural transit agencies in areas with fewer than 50,000 people, and $100 million for intercity bus services to support essential connections in rural areas. - $8 billion for airports and airport concessions. This includes $6.4 billion for costs related to operations, personnel, and combating the spread of COVID-19 at airport facilities, $800 million for sponsors of primary airports and concession relief, $600 million to ensure all airports receive 100% federal cost-share for any airport improvement grant awarded to them in fiscal year (FY) 2021, and $100 million to non-primary airports to aid in the costs related to the pandemic. - $1.7 billion for Amtrak in FY2021. This includes $970 million to support the Northeast Corridor and $730 million to support the National Network. ## **State and Local Government:** - $350 billion to help states, counties, cities and tribal governments cover increased expenditures, replenish lost revenue and mitigate economic harm from the COVID-19 pandemic. - $195.3 billion to states and the District of Columbia. - $130.2 billion to Local Governments including $65.1 billion for counties, $45.6 billion for metropolitan cities, $19.5 billion for towns with fewer than 50,000 people. - $4.5 billion to U.S. territories and $20 billion to tribal governments. - Tax credit parity between [public and private sector employees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-paid-sick-leave-tax-credit-parity-between-private-and-public-employers/). ## **Education:** - $122.7 billion for the existing Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund to remain available through Sept. 30, 2023. - $40 billion through the existing Higher Education Emergency Relief (HEER) Fund. ## **Homeland Security:** - $50 billion to the Disaster Relief Fund for COVID-19 and other disaster assistance under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This assistance is meant to improve vaccine rollout efforts under FEMA. - $100 million for Emergency Management Performance Grants to state and local emergency management agencies to help communities address COVID-19 and facilitate vaccine rollout. ## **Technology, Broadband, and Cyber:** - $7.2 billion Emergency Connectivity Fund to reimburse schools and libraries for internet access and connected devices. ## **Small Business:** - $7.25 billion for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgivable loans. The American Rescue Plan appropriates $7.25 billion in additional funding and does not extend the PPP’s current application period which is scheduled to close on March 31. - Restores the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) and provides a $10 billion authorization through September 30, 2030. Roughly $5 billion is available to states to be distributed by formula based on 2020 unemployment numbers, $1.5 billion is provided for socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, $1 billon for incentives program to encourage investments in socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, $1 billion is included for an incentives program to encourage investments in socially and economically disadvantaged businesses, $500 million is directed to tribal governments, $ 500 million is provided to minority businesses, and $500 million is made available for technical assistance to states for legal, accounting, and financial advisory services. ASCE applauds Congress’ leadership in providing much needed COVID-19 relief across our nation. As the White House and Congress begin taking the next steps on [long-term economic recovery](https://joebiden.com/build-back-better/), we continue to urge lawmakers to make infrastructure a priority. In ASCE’s [2021 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) our accumulative grade was a “C-.” This mediocre grade is due in large part to our 10-year $2.5 trillion investment deficit. Congress can improve our nation’s grade by developing comprehensive legislation that prepares for a sustainable and resilient future, prioritize asset management and operations and maintenance (O&M) needs, and restoring a strong federal partner in infrastructure investment. Now is the time for action and ASCE government relations continues to urge for comprehensive infrastructure investment. 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President Biden’s agenda, multiple committees met this week to discuss the administration’s response to Hurricane Ida, which caused nearly 100 deaths and resulted in billions of dollars in damage from Louisiana up into the northeast. On September 30, Congress passed a [continuing resolution](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/house-clears-extending-government-funding-and-delivering-emergency-assistance) to extend government funded, but also provided $28.6 billion in relief funds for states impacted by recent natural disasters, including Ida. While votes are not expected in the House this week, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell [appeared before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee](https://oversight.house.gov/legislation/hearings/hurricane-ida-and-beyond-readiness-recovery-and-resilience) on Tuesday to discuss the agency’s efforts to provide relief for states impacted by Ida. The discussion also focused on ways in which the Federal Government is preparing for increasingly violent storms in the future. In her testimony, Director Criswell recounted the devastating toll of Hurricane Ida, and strongly emphasized the importance of mitigation and resilience programs. Criswell highlighted the need for “generational investments” in mitigation and resilience to reduce the impact of climate fueled disasters, noting a 2019 National Institute of Building Sciences Study indicating that every dollar invested in mitigation saves six dollars in future spending. One program Criswell singled out was the [Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program](https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/building-resilient-infrastructure-communities), which was established in 2018 to support state and local governments in developing hazard mitigation projects which strengthen infrastructure in the face of increasingly strong weather events. Criswell called BRIC a “cornerstone of \[the agency’s\] mitigation efforts”, and [pointed to President Biden doubling the amount of funding available for the program](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/05/24/fact-sheet-biden-administration-invests-1-billion-to-protect-communities-families-and-businesses-before-disaster-strikes/) for the 2021 Fiscal Year demonstrating the administration’s commitment to effective disaster mitigation. Criswell answered several questions from committee members on a range of topics directly related to the administration’s response to Ida, as well as questions more broadly addressing hazard mitigation and preparedness. Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), whose district includes parts of New York City that were heavily impacted by catastrophic flooding, raised questions about the resilience of existing infrastructure and mitigation tools for communities, citing the record rainfall and failure of storm water infrastructure in New York City, and the limited efficacy of existing flood maps. Criswell, who served as Commissioner of New York City Emergency Management prior to joining the administration, underscored that the existing flood maps are an important tool, but do not account for storm water and sewer infrastructure and that action needed to be taken to strengthen such infrastructure. Throughout the hearing, Director Criswell called for action to be taken to make the nation’s infrastructure more climate resilient. She emphasized the need to prepare for future challenges, rather than responding to historical threats, and that climate resiliency and mitigation was essential. Criswell urged the House to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which includes significant funding for mitigation and resilience programs, including $55 billion to upgrade wastewater infrastructure, $1 billion for the BRIC program, more than $11 billion for flood resilience programs and $500 million for communities to fund resilience revolving loan funds to implement pre-disaster mitigation projects. Similar topics were also discussed on Wednesday in the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. The [committee hosted](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=6A08923A-AA31-4879-A693-C6F69D291AE9) national and regional commanders from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss the Corps’ response to Ida. Like Criswell, officers testified about the improvements in readiness and better preparedness for Ida compared to Hurricane Katrina 15 years earlier. Major General William “Butch” Graham, Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations, hailed the federal investments made in the Greater New Orleans Hurricane & Storm Damage Risk Reduction System, which funded construction and improvements for over 100 miles of levees, flood walls, and flood gates following Katrina. General Graham noted that the system worked exactly as it was intended and prevented a disaster on the level of Katrina. Much like the House Oversight hearing, several Senators posed questions related to the need to adapt to the effects of climate change. Senator Ben Cardin (D-MD) questioned the officers on what the Corps was doing to prepare for new risk factors such as increased rainfall in short periods of time and more violent storms. Graham pointed to a climate action plan proposed by the Corps which he said calls for more modernized approaches to addressing challenges, better management of facilities like dams and levees, and better engagement with local partners, including sharing science and actionable data. Graham said this plan is expected to be released in the near future following review of the White House Council on Environmental Quality. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) rang warning bells about increased rainfall coupled with sea level rise and the failure of current flood maps in mitigating the crisis, and emphasized the need for the Corps to be working off accurate maps in its emergency response. Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelly Moore-Capito (R-WV) posed questions regarding record floods in the northeast, and the need for infrastructure improvements. Brigadier General Thomas Tickner, Commander of the Corps’ North Atlantic Division, attributed flooding in New York City’s subways to large amounts of rainfall in a very short period of time and the city’s storm water systems’ inability to handle it. When asked about ways to better overcome flooding and climate risks in the future, Tickner noted the need to modernize its approaches, improve early warning systems, and educate communities about risks. While the fallout from Hurricane Ida showed in many cases that mitigation and risk management systems have improved over the years, strengthening climate resiliency remains a top priority. Improvements to storm water infrastructure and flood mitigation programs, and investment in hazard mitigation for communities throughout the country need to be addressed by policy makers as the effects of climate change continue to worsen every year. 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those of us who care and worry and fret about our country’s infrastructure it’s easy to wince as we scroll through the letters. Mostly C’s and D’s with a couple of B’s, but not an A in sight. The overall report card is disheartening, and would have gotten me grounded had I brought it home. But we don’t have the option of grounding ourselves until things get better. Our infrastructure is the foundation of our country. It supports everything we rely on. Infrastructure allows us to move goods to markets, supply water for our food and ourselves, energize our smartphones and computers, heat and cool our homes, create safe spots for our waste. Our infrastructures touches everything in our lives. With 17 report card categories this blog post can’t possibly touch on all these issues, so I’ve picked two – dams and levees – where I spend most of my time working. There are over 91,000 dams scattered throughout virtually every corner of the U.S. and they serve many different purposes. Some hold drinking water, others provide flood control, a small number (only about 3%) help create clean hydropower, some are used for irrigating crops, and still others store vast amounts of our waste. Our dams are built with earth, rock, concrete, asphalt, steel, and a host of other locally accessible materials, and they are as widely varied as our people and our landscape. And yet with all of these differences and variations they all must do the same thing; they must remain safe and standing through hurricanes, floods, earthquakes and everything else nature (and humans) can throw at them. There are over 35,000 miles of levees in the US, maybe even more…no one is exactly sure, and like dams they are built mostly from nearby soil and rock. Most of the time they do little other than stand watch over their surroundings as day after normal day passes by. But when a large flood occurs they are quickly called to hold back these waters and push them away from the towns and fields and people they protect. ![Aerial view of a wide river with a diagonal sediment barrier showing white mineral deposits and green vegetation, dividing brown muddy water from clearer water; tree-lined shore in the distance.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/5850091892_28a57b4229_b-400x266.jpg "5850091892_28a57b4229_b") *Source: USACE* And most of the time our dams and levees do their job perfectly. Nearly all of the 91,000 dams and 35,000 miles of levees stay safe and stable throughout every circumstance. The only problem is that “nearly all” isn’t good enough because the consequences of the failure of these dams and levees is enormous. When dams and levees fail, the risk that the subsequent flooding will kill people is extremely high. Our dams and levees received a D grade in this latest report card. These structures generally weren’t built according to our latest knowledge about seismic activity or the changing climate. Additionally, we’re not performing fixes, upgrades, and maintenance fast enough to prevent future failures from occurring. A good analogy is the check engine light on a car. When this light blinks on it’s a warning that we need to quickly take our car to the mechanic to address an issue, and ignoring this issue only becomes more and more expensive the longer we wait. The ASCE Infrastructure Report Card is our check engine light. It is our reminder that we must deal with this issue now because it’s only getting more expensive and dangerous with time. And our dams and levees continue to age. But there is optimism that we’re making progress. The recent proposal from the Biden administration focusing on upgrading our infrastructure is a great first step and a recognition by our leadership that we must make continued investments in these structures and systems. They are vital to the safety, security and prosperity of us all. Infrastructure isn’t political or partisan; it’s a necessity for everyone. Like clean and safe water, there is no substitute or replacement for our infrastructure. It must be recognized, planned, built, cared for, worried about, and constantly maintained for the benefit of us all. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Saving%20Our%20Infrastructure%20and%20Cutting%20Expenses%3A%20Artificial%20Intelligence%20and%20Predictive%20Road%20Maintenance&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Guest Blog by [EyeVi Technologies](https://www.eyevi.tech/)** The United States infrastructure report card is nothing to write home about. According to the 2021 ASCE *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, the overall score for America’s infrastructure is a C-. This more than imperfect grade is reflected well in the satisfaction rate of amongst everyday Americans with their infrastructure. In a recent survey by Ipsos, Americans are slightly more satisfied with [the state of their ](https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news-polls/2021-Global-Infrastructure-Index)roads and bridges than Spaniards. However, South Africa, Belgium, and Poland are more satisfied, with China topping the list. (figure 1) ![Infographic showing a horizontal bar chart of country satisfaction with national infrastructure and a green-highlighted world map. Notable values: China 77%, Saudi Arabia 75%, India 57%, United States 27%, Russia 24%, Saudi Arabia 75%.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Map-1-1024x410.png "Map")Figure 1: Proportion of satisfaction (very/fairly satisfied) scores by country. Adopted from [Ipsos](https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news-polls/2021-Global-Infrastructure-Index) 2021 In accordance with the Ipsos survey, the report card also shows that one of the biggest factors that bring our grades down is road infrastructure; specifically – 43% of major US public roadways are in poor or mediocre condition. That estimate doesn’t even encapsulate local roadway pavement conditions, which are often significantly worse than major U.S. roadways, due to lack of funding. Overall, the backlog in road maintenance amount to [billions of dollars](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Roads-2021.pdf), and the costs continue to rise. Meanwhile, current manual data capture methods of pavement conditions waste further time and resources, as running a full review that is both time-consuming and expensive. A lack of sufficient data in turn leads to difficulty in prioritizing the most urgent road repairs and maintenance of asset items. Fast data capture and automated data processing are urgently needed to capture much-needed condition information and help states and localities prioritize. ## High-quality equipment for fast data capture Fortunately, technological advancements are better allowing for quick and cost-effective data collection. Instead of driving road by road and manually recording defects and the state of asset items, technology is enabling various strategies for capturing geospatial data, ranging from cheap and simple smartphone-based solutions to expensive high-tech devices. There are choices for everyone according to their needs for data quality and availability in terms of budget. However, to ensure sufficient image quality and location accuracy for automated defect detection, the hardware should include a 360° panoramic camera, a LIDAR scanner, and a GNSS/INS system (figure 2). [EyeVi](https://www.eyevi.tech/product?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=ASCE+Blog&utm_campaign=ASCE%3A+Infrastructure+Report+Card+&utm_id=ASCE) offers such data capture services in addition to AI-powered defect detection software. Using hardware that can be mounted to the roof of a car makes data capture fast and safe. The data can be gathered while driving at a normal speed and there is no need to inspect the road visually – this work will be done later by artificial intelligence. ![Self-driving white SUV equipped with a rooftop sensor rig for autonomous testing in an outdoor lot on the left; a simulated navigation map on the right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Picture2.jpg "Picture2")Figure 2: A car with mountable high-quality mobile mapping equipment (left) capturing the data (right) ## AI-powered digitalization of the captured data When the data is captured, the next step is to digitalize it, i.e., annotate the data for objects of interest and process it (figure 3). There are various AI-based software and data processing platforms that offer this kind of service. [Using artificial intelligence](https://www.eyevi.tech/blog/artificial-intelligence-ai-how-it-works-and-why-to-use-it) in various domains has been on the rise for the last decade. Road infrastructure management is also a field that can [benefit enormously](https://www.eyevi.tech/blog/the-use-of-artificial-intelligence-ai-in-defect-detection-of-roads-infrastructure) from this high-tech solution. First, the data processing is automated – no more manual annotations. Second, the quality of the data is consistent throughout the datasets – there is no subject bias in the annotations that tends to result from human-annotated data. Third, using AI instead of a whole team of annotators makes the data processing faster and cheaper. ![Three-panel road scene: left colored point-cloud of a road, middle roundabout with signs, right same view with a data overlay and small map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Picture3.jpg "Picture3")Figure 3: Point cloud image of the captured data (left), base data (middle), and AI-based annotation (right) ## Smart data management saves the grade Combining the two methods – fast data capture with hardware that includes market-leading sensors, and AI-powered data processing – leads to sustainable road infrastructure management. How does it make management sustainable? Investing in the use of an AI-powered and automated 3D mapping platform enables road consultants and asset managers to have a constant overview of the physical road network in maximum detail. Road defects, attributes, profiles, road signs, safety barriers, markings, crossroads, and so much more – everything necessary for predictive road maintenance, road asset and traffic management, safety auditing, and autonomous transportation. The result? Road maintenance backlogs start reducing and costs go down as the priorities get set and resources are directed where needed the most in a timely and efficient manner. With [EyeVi’s market-leading sensors and AI-powered digitalization](https://www.eyevi.tech/product?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_medium=ASCE+Blog&utm_campaign=ASCE%3A+Infrastructure+Report+Card+&utm_id=ASCE) coupled with smart, automated data management, there’s no reason why we can’t pass our next test with flying colors. 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resilient future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/five-points-on-grid-modernization-as-we-build-a-more-resilient-future/) **Published:** April 19, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Five%20points%20on%20grid%20modernization%20as%20we%20build%20a%20more%20resilient%20future&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F04%2Fbronzeville-iit.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Five%20points%20on%20grid%20modernization%20as%20we%20build%20a%20more%20resilient%20future "Share on 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Administration](https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/billions/) about the frequency of major weather and climate disasters in the U.S. We’ve experienced 291 events with damages or costs of at least $1 billion since 1980. And their recurrence doesn’t seem to be slowing down. As the NOAA figures indicate, we’ve had 10 or more of these events in eight of the past 10 years. Joining these numbers are the devastating news stories we’ve seen recently as power outages gripped Texas and wildfires blazed across California. In a couple of months, we’ll be back in hurricane season, with last year marking the most active season yet. At the same time, we’re seeing a renewed focus on resiliency and infrastructure, spurred in part by the ASCE’s latest [Report Card for Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) and the recently unveiled jobs and infrastructure plan from the White House. There’s momentum for using meaningful investments in infrastructure to help drive our economic recovery and transformative change in our communities. Among these priorities, particularly as we transition to cleaner energy and electrify transportation to address climate change, is the modernization of our electric grid. During [ASCE’s virtual summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release-event) last month highlighting the report card’s release, I had a chance to talk about how Siemens is engaging in this work to make our grid smarter, reduce risk to today’s shocks and drive a zero-carbon future for the long term. Here are a few of the points I shared and why we’re excited about what’s possible. - *Distributed energy systems like microgrids are rising to the challenge, even when tested against once-in-a-century ones.* We saw this recently at [Blue Lake Rancheria](https://new.siemens.com/global/en/company/stories/infrastructure/2020/blue-lake-rancheria-energy-resilience.html), a Native American reservation in Northern California, which uses our microgrid management software. The controller’s response to fluctuations in demand prevented the microgrid from shutting down during the pandemic and enabled it to “island,” or disconnect, from the larger network to provide backup power for emergency services when wildfires forced widespread outages. As a result, the microgrid has been credited with saving multiple lives. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/471639-blue-lake-rancheria-microgrid-400x300.jpg "Blue Lake Rancheria Microgrid, Blue Lake, CA")A century old Native American reservation in Northern California Blue Lake Rancheria took control of its energy by launching a solar power based microgrid - *Investments to transform our power infrastructure can help drive equity.* As we look to intelligent energy systems to deliver reliable power when severe weather strikes, let’s also recognize how they can pave the way for a community’s sustainable future. Our [partnership with Bronzeville in Chicago](https://new.siemens.com/us/en/company/siemens-in-the-usa/chicago.html), where we’re working with ComEd to support the first utility-operated microgrid cluster in the United States, is one example of a project enabling the resiliency and efficiency important to the neighborhood’s revitalization with the use of cleaner energy. ![Red brick historic building with arched windows, framed by green trees under a bright blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/bronzeville-iit-400x267.jpg "IIT Campus Main Building")Bronzeville in Chicago the first utility operated microgrid cluster in the United States is one example of a project enabling the resiliency and efficiency important to the neighborhoods revitalization with the use of cleaner energy - *Cybersecurity is essential as grid operations become more complex.* As more operational technology comes online, we’ll need to maintain the integrity of our energy systems through robust security. By turning to automated controls as software systems increase in sophistication and operation speed accelerates, we can use technology to help predict, prevent and quickly respond to disruption. - *The grid is the most complex machine ever built and has many stakeholders.* So we’ll need to address different needs in different parts of the country and, in some cases, improve components more than a century old. The good news is that [technology can be quickly and easily installed](https://new.siemens.com/global/en/products/energy/medium-voltage/systems/outdoor-systems/fusesaver.html) to improve reliability, optimize network performance and minimize operating costs. - *And we expect demands on the grid to further increase with the electrification of transportation.* [Estimates](https://www.eei.org/resourcesandmedia/newsroom/Pages/Press%20Releases/EEI%20Celebrates%201%20Million%20Electric%20Vehicles%20on%20U-S-%20Roads.aspx#:~:text=EEI%2FIEI%20report%3A-,The%20number%20of%20EVs%20on%20U.S.%20roads%20is%20projected%20to,on%20U.S.%20roads%20in%202030.) have put the number of electric vehicles in the U.S. nearing 20 million by 2030, a significant increase from the one million EVs in 2018. Such demand will need to be effectively and responsibly managed through grid modernization and the scaling of charging infrastructure. Like other infrastructure projects, grid investments are a win for jobs and economic growth. But they are also vital to protecting lives and livelihoods from major weather and climate disasters. Over the past year, we’ve seen what we can achieve, together, in times of crisis. Now we have the chance to build on this progress with national attention on infrastructure. Companies like Siemens are [ready to harness today’s technologies to help move the country forward](https://new.siemens.com/us/en/company/press/siemens-stories/ceo-perspective/siemens-usa-ceo-an-open-letter-on-us-infrastructure-to-government-leaders.html?linkId=300000001040093). By applying an innovative spirit and collaboration to our energy future, we can make this decade one of action and greater resiliency. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Five%20points%20on%20grid%20modernization%20as%20we%20build%20a%20more%20resilient%20future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy --- ### [Florida Civil Engineers Give the State’s Infrastructure a “C” Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/florida-civil-engineers-give-the-states-infrastructure-a-c-grade/) **Published:** October 27, 2021 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Florida%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, October 27, the Florida Section of ASCE unveiled the [2021 Report Card for Florida’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/florida/), the section’s first report card since 2016. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “C”, which is higher than the national grade of “C-“ and consistent with the state’s “C” grade in its previous 2016 report. A “C” grade means the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre to good condition. The report analyzed 14 categories of infrastructure pertinent to Florida: aviation (C+), bridges (B), coastal areas (C-), dams (D-), drinking water (C), energy (C+), levees (D+), ports (B), roads (C+), schools (D+), solid waste (B+), stormwater (C-), transit (C) and wastewater (C). ASCE Florida Section President Tzufit Boyle, the report card chair, Kathi Ruvarac, and section past-president Peter Moore spoke at the event and detailed the report’s findings. Secretary David Gwynn, FDOT District 7, and state senator Jeff Brandes, Dist. 24, were guest ![Speaker at a podium giving a talk; backdrop includes an ASCE Florida Section banner and American and Florida flags behind him.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Senator-Brandes-300x400.jpg "Senator Jeff Brandes, Dist. 24.")speakers, illustrating the important of infrastructure to all Floridians. Florida’s surface transportation sectors – including roads (C+), bridges (B), aviation (C+), ports (B) and transit (C) – comprise one of the highest-performing infrastructure networks in the nation, despite seeing an uptick in 2.7 million residents over the past decade and increasingly severe storms battering assets. Only 31% of Florida’s major roadways are in poor condition, compared to 42% nationally. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has utilized asset management practices to maintain existing infrastructure before implementing capacity projects for both roads and bridges. Nearly 65% of Florida bridges are in ‘good’ condition compared to the national value of 45%, while only 3% of Florida’s bridges are in ‘poor’ condition compared to more than 7% nationally. The state’s motor fuels tax – which is used to fund road and bridge maintenance and expansion – has been indexed to adjust with inflation and the state continues to increase transportation related funding; in fiscal year 2021-2022, the state budget allocates $10.3 billion to transportation infrastructure, up from $9.7 billion the previous year. Despite these strong metrics, from 2017 to 2020 the percentage of Florida’s bridges in ‘good’ condition decreased. The same trend is seen across the United States, but Florida’s change over time occurred more quickly. Florida also reported a slight uptick in bridges considered in ‘poor’ condition from 1.9% in 2016 to 3.2% in 2020. Aviation (C+) and ports (B) have also performed well. Florida’s airports support more than 170 million annual passengers due to a world-renowned tourism industry, more than 43,000 jobs and $175 billion in economic activity, all sharp rises over the course of a decade. The state’s 15 seaports generate nearly 900,000 jobs and $117.6 billion in economic value. Florida’s dams (D-), which had the lowest grade in the report, are lacking in up-to-date data and only 41% of them have an Emergency Action Plan, compared with 81% nationally. Similar to dams, only 40% of Florida’s 90 levee (D+) systems have been assessed for risk, despite their role in protecting nearly $100 billion in property and 1.6 million residents. ![Speaker at podium presenting to an audience at an ASCE Florida Section event, with a projection screen and flags behind.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Kathi-Ruvarac-300x400.jpg "Kathi Ruvarac, P.E., Chair, 2021 Report Card for Florida's Infrastructure")The states’ energy (C+) and solid waste (B+) sectors have implemented innovative practices to improve their efficiency and reliability, which is especially prudent in a state so heavily invested in and dependent upon its natural environment. State utilities are burying thousands of miles of distribution lines and investing billions to harden their grid to protect from severe weather. As a result, Florida was among the five areas in the nation with the shortest annual outage duration totaling less than 90 minutes. Meanwhile, Floridians produce nearly triple the national per capita average of solid waste per day, thanks in large part to tourists, but the state recycled 42% of its Municipal Solid Waste, well above the 2018 national average of nearly 24%. Florida has the second largest waste-to-energy conversion rate in the country, generating roughly five million megawatt hours of energy from biomass sources in 2019. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, such as: - Continue leadership and investment in critical transportation and freight sectors to strengthen the economy and public safety. - Improve routine data collection and assessment in Schools, Dams, and Levees sectors to expand the public and lawmakers’ access to information to inform safety and funding decisions. - Expand the application of new approaches, materials, and technologies across Florida’s infrastructure sectors to improve its ability to withstand or quickly recover from natural or man-made hazards. 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Bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-appropriations-approves-fy-23-bills/) **Published:** June 30, 2022 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Appropriations%20Approves%20FY%2023%20Bills&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Appropriations%20Approves%20FY%2023%20Bills "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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During the week, the full committee marked up the remaining six appropriations bills, including Energy and Water; Commerce Justice and Science; Interior and Environment; and Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. Therefore, all 12 of the FY 23 bills now await consideration on the House floor. ASCE is closely tracking the FY 23 appropriations process and has urged Congress to fully fund all programs that were authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. In the coming weeks, the House is expected to take up and pass its appropriations bills, while the Senate Appropriations Committee intends to mark up its bills after the July 4th recess, however a mark-up schedule has not yet been made public. [**Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development.** ](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/transportation-and-housing-and-urban-development-and-related-agencies-subcommittee) The House provides $105.4 billion for the **Department of Transportation**, an increase of $2.4 billion compared to the FY 22 enacted level. This includes $78.4 billion in contract authority and an advance appropriation from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) of $36.9 billion. The bill also includes $1.7 billion in earmarks, over three times the amount of earmarks from last year’s House bill. Other highlights include: - $61.3 billion in contract authority for the **Federal Highway Administration,** as well as another $9.45 billion in advance appropriations. - $18.7 billion for the **Federal Aviation Administration**, an increase of $193 million over FY 22. This includes $6.35 billion for the Airport Improvement program, split between FY 23 appropriations and IIJA advance appropriations. - $17.5 billion for the **Federal Transit Administration** an increase of $1.19 billion from FY 22. Funding includes $3 billion for Capital Investment Grants, which is $764 million above FY 22 and is combined with another $1.6 billion in advance funding for FY 23 from the IIJA. - $3.8 billion for the **Federal Railroad Administration**, representing an increase of $501 million from FY 22. - $1.2 billion for the **National Highway Traffic Safety Administration** - $775 million for the **Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity** (RAISE) grant program, which is equal to FY 2022. [**Commerce, Justice, and Science.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/commerce-justice-science-and-related-agencies-subcommittee-legislative-activity) The House would increase spending levels across agencies under the CJS title by almost ten percent from FY 22 levels, totaling $86 billion for FY 23. - The **National Institute of Standards and Technology** (NIST) would receive almost $1.5 billion, a 20 percent increase from FY 22 levels, which includes $953 million for core NIST research activities. ASCE’s request was $1.4 billion. - The bill would provide the **National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration** (NOAA) with $6.8 billion, which is an increase of $908 million from FY 22. Additionally funding at NOAA is focused on priorities such as climate research and mitigation, improvements in weather forecasting, understanding sea level rise, and STEM education. For example, the bill would provide NOAA for the first time with $9 million to update Climate Change Projections out to 2050. - The bill would provide the **National Science Foundation** with almost $9.6 billion, a boost of nine percent from FY 22, with increased funds going towards climate science and sustainability research. ASCE’s request was $11 billion. [**Interior and Environment.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/interior-environment-and-related-agencies-subcommittee-legislative-activity) The House provides a total of $44.8 billion for programs under Interior and Environment. This funding includes $11.5 billion for the **Environmental Protection Agency**, representing $2.5 billion above the FY 22 level. - The bill includes $1.75 billion for the **Clean Water State Revolving Fund** (CWSRF), which is below the $3.17 billion ASCE requested, but above the FY 22 enacted level. The CWSRF appropriation also includes $1.5 million for the Clean Watersheds Needs Survey, a long standing ASCE priority. - The **Drinking Water State Revolving Fund** would receive $1.13 billion under the House bill, equal to the FY 22 level, but far below ASCE’s request of $2.27 billion. - **WIFIA** would receive $80 million, $10.5 million above the enacted level from FY 22 and ASCE’s request. - **Brownfields** would receive $131 million, $39 million above the enacted level and $119 million below ASCE’s request. - The bill includes $65 million to fund ten **new water infrastructure programs** authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. These programs include technical assistance grants for emergencies, midsize and large drinking water system resilience, clean water research, stormwater grants, and a water data pilot program to name just a few. - The **National Park Service** would receive $3.6 billion, which is $304 million above the FY 22 level and $800 million above ASCE’s request. [**Energy and Water.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/energy-and-water-development-and-related-agencies-subcommittee-legislative-activity) The FY 23 Energy and Water appropriations provides $56.275 billion for the **Department of Energy** (DOE), **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers** (USACE), **Bureau of Reclamation**, and other agencies. The bill provides nearly $8.9 billion for **USACE**, a $545 million increase from the FY 22 enacted level nearly a $2.3 billion increase from the FY 2023 budget request. USACE funds include $2.475 billion for the construction account, and $2.32 billion for **Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund** projects, and $7.2 million for **USACE’s Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Program** (Corps WIFIA). In addition, the **National Levee Database** received $3.5 million. **DOE** would receive $48.2 billion, including $350 million for the Electricity account which supports DOE’s Office of Electricity and Grid Deployment Office. [**Homeland Security.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/the-department-of-homeland-security-117th-congress) The House bill provide the **Department of Homeland Security** with $85.7 billion, including nearly $20 billion for major disaster response and recovery, and an increase of $2.7 billion from FY 22. In total, the bill provides the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) with $25.9 billion, an increase of $1.7 billion from FY 22. This includes $350 million for FEMA’s Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Program and $370 million for Emergency Management Performance Grants. 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Economic Strength (or COMPETES](https://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20220131/BILLS-117HR4521RH-RCP117-31.pdf)) Act of 2022. The measure passed by a vote of 222-210, largely along party lines with one Republican, Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Illinois, voting for the bill and one Democrat, Rep. Stephanie Murphy of Florida, opposed. The partisan vote was somewhat surprising given that the measure mainly consists of several bills already passed by bipartisan votes, and it some cases unanimously. The bill is a compilation of more than sixteen bills either passed by the full House or the House Science Committee. Included are such ASCE supported bills as the National Science Foundation (NSF) for the Future Act, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for the Future Act, and the Department of Energy for the Future Act, as well as the other measures to further the U.S. research and development enterprise. ASCE’s *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* calls for significant investment in research and development as a critical solution to facilitate a durable, secure, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure that will meet the needs of the 21st century and raise the infrastructure grades. The stated goal of the COMPETES Act is to make a historic investment to boost production of American-made semiconductors, address supply chain vulnerabilities to make more goods in America, bolster America’s scientific research and technological leadership, and strengthen America’s economic and national security at home and abroad. Among the many provisions enhancing research and development, the bill would more than double funding for the NSF from the current $8.5 billion to $18.3 billion in 2026. The bill in many ways mirrors the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act (S. 1260), which passed the Senate last June by a large bi-partisan majority. Both bills also provide for substantial new federal incentives to help bring advanced semiconductor manufacturing back to the U. S.—another bipartisan priority. It is now up to Congressional leaders to work to reach a compromise that can pass both Houses of Congress. The Biden Administration is supportive of both efforts with a statement that the President looks forward “to the House and Senate quickly coming together to find a path forward and putting a bill on my desk as soon as possible for my signature. America can’t afford to wait.” **ASCE is urging Congress to move quickly to reach final legislation that would significantly increase support for NSF, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and the Department of Energy, as well as the other provisions that further the U.S. research and development enterprise.** But Friday’s partisan divide over the House bill, along with differences between the House and Senate approaches, may spell problems for the ultimate passage of the measure. Among the differences is how to use scientific research to counter overseas threats. The Senate bill focuses on encouraging cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The House, by contrast, gives more flexibility to federal science officials to decide which new ideas deserve to be jump-started. The House package also focuses more on global economic challenges and less on the specific threat from China, aides say. Compared with the Senate, the House also targets more funding and related policy changes toward issues such as climate change, human rights, and domestic social inequality. Its version includes $8 billion to help developing countries convert to cleaner sources of energy. Another difference is the House’s inclusion of a new, $45 billion fund to provide grants and loans to strengthen U.S. supply chains and manufacturing. Both the House and Senate bills deal with large issues that ASCE does not have a stated interest or policy statements on, they both however, address ASCE’s long stated goals of addressing the nation’s research and development needs. Federal research and development funding has historically provided a significant portion of the total U.S. civilian investments. However, since the turn of the 21st century, the federal share of such funding has declined significantly. Inadequate federal funding limits the ability to leverage the potential talents and resources across the U.S. to address pressing current, emergent, and long-term societal needs, and hinders the ability to maximize leveraging of funds through government-university-industry partnerships. 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steps](https://appropriations.house.gov/events/markups) to pass fiscal year (FY) 2022 government spending for core infrastructure programs. While the committee has not passed all 12-spending bill, lawmakers took the initial steps by passing FY22 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD); Commerce, Justice, and Science (CST); Interior and Environment; Energy and Water Development; and Homeland Security Spending Bills. Specifically, under each bill House Appropriations provided: [**THUD Spending.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-subcommittee-approves-fiscal-year-2022-transportation-and-housing) For FY22, the bill provides funding of $84.1 billion, an increase of $8.7 billion – more than 11 percent – above FY21 spending. - Full funding for core highway and bridge programs authorized under the FAST Act. *ASCE’s request was for full funding for these core programs.* - $3.75 billion for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). *ASCE’s request was for $4.35 billion.* - $1.2 billion for the RAISE (formerly BUILD and TIGER) grant program. *ASCE’s request was for $1.5 billion.* - $2.4 billion for the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program. *ASCE’s request was for $2.6 billion.* [**CST Spending.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-subcommittee-approves-fiscal-year-2022-commerce-justice-science) For FY22, the bill provides $81.3 billion, an increase of $10.2 billion – 14 percent – above FY21 spending. - $9.6 billion for the National Science Foundation (NSF). *ASCE’s request was for $10 billion.* - $1.35 billion for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)**.** *ASCE’s request was for $1.1 billion.* [**Interior and Environment Spending**](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-approves-fiscal-year-2022-interior-environment-and-0)**.** For FY22, the bill provides $43.4 billion, an increase of $7.3 billion – 20.2 percent – above FY21 spending. - $3.23 billion for Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds. *ASCE’s request was for $ 8.3 billion.* - $250 million for the Brownfields program*. ASCE’s request was for $131 million.* [**Energy and Water Development Spending**](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-releases-fiscal-year-2022-energy-and-water-development)**.** For FY22, the bill provides $53.3 billion, an increase of $1.474 billion above FY21 spending. - $8.6 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. *ASCE’s request was for $2 billion.* [**Homeland Security Spending.**](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-approves-fiscal-year-2022-homeland-security-funding) For FY22, the bill provides funding of $52.8 billion, an increase of $934 million above FY21. - $18 billion for disaster relief programs. *ASCE’s combined request for the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Disaster Program, Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Assessment (RiskMAP) program, and the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program is $521 million.* While we await a full House vote on all 12 spending bills, the Senate will need to take action to ensure we provide the necessary resources to invest in our infrastructure and avoid a government shutdown. In ASCE’s [2021 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) our nation’s infrastructure received the grade of a “C-.” This subpar grade because our infrastructure continues to be under funded leading to a 10-year $2.5 trillion investment deficit. ASCE government relations will continue to urge lawmakers to provide the funding our infrastructure needs to rise our grade and build an infrastructure system fit for the 21st century. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Appropriators%20Move%20on%20FY22%20Spending%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [House Committees Hold Hearings on Climate Adaptation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-committees-hold-hearings-on-climate-adaptation/) **Published:** March 10, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Committees%20Hold%20Hearings%20on%20Climate%20Adaptation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, two House committees held hearings to discuss strategies on adaptation and resilience in the face of climate change. On Tuesday, March 8, the House Science, Space and Technology Committee held a hearing entitled [“Federal Climate Adaptation and Resilience for the 21st Century”](https://science.house.gov/hearings/federal-climate-adaptation-and-resilience-for-the-21st-century) with witnesses representing various federal agencies. The House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis held a hearing on Wednesday, March 9 entitled [“Confronting Climate Impacts: Federal Strategies for Equitable Adaptation and Resilience”](https://climatecrisis.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/confronting-climate-impacts-federal-strategies-equitable-adaptation-and) and welcomed stakeholders from the academic, scientific, and local government communities. Both hearings raised discussions about the most effective strategies for adapting to climate change and incorporating climate into decision making processes. However, the tone of the two hearings were at times vastly different. The Science, Space and Technology Committee showed a greater sense of common, and a mostly focused discussion on adaptation and resiliency issues, The Select Committee on the Climate Crisis’ hearing, however, highlighted deep partisan divisions, and was at times much more contentious. Tuesday’s Science, Space and Technology hearing focused on the Federal Government’s approach to implementing climate adaptation and resiliency into its decision-making process. Last fall, federal agencies submitted plans to the White House Council on Environmental Quality outlining strategies to incorporate climate risks into its policies, missions, and decision making. In November, [ASCE submitted public comments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-submits-public-comments-on-agency-climate-action-plans/) on the plans presented by the Department of Transportation, Department of Energy, and Environmental Protection Agency. Hearing witnesses included representatives from several federal agencies that play a critical role in addressing climate change. [Dr. Richard Spinrad](https://science.house.gov/download/03/07/2022/spinrad-testimony), Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), emphasized NOAA’s role in collecting climate data and making that data actionable, and laid out NOAA’s vision to work across federal agencies to ensure a “climate ready nation” by 2030. [Ingrid Kolb](https://science.house.gov/download/kolb-testimony), the Chief Sustainability Officer at the Department of Energy (DOE), highlighted DOE’s commitment to climate resilience across its departments, and its commitment to deliver an agency resiliency plan by September of 2022. [Dr. Joel Carney](https://science.house.gov/download/carney-testimony) with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) highlighted NASA’s critical role in assessing climate vulnerability, as well as its role as a driver of science and research & development. Finally, [Alfredo Gomez](https://science.house.gov/download/gomez-updated-testimony) with the Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighted GAO’s role in monitoring implementation of agency resilience efforts, and noted that further investment in climate resilience can reduce the need for far more expensive and drastic measures in the future. The hearing struck an early bipartisan tone, with both acting Chairwoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) and Ranking Member Frank Lucas (R-OK) recognizing the increasingly more severe effects of climate change, and the need for clear and cohesive federal strategy to adapt to these effects. The Chair and Ranking Member struck a tone for the hearing which facilitated productive, if at times pointed discussion on a number of issues from agency efforts to implement adaptation measures, agency staffing needs, interagency efforts, and stakeholder engagement. Stevens warned of the “concrete tangible danger” of climate change which could significantly undermine the missions of federal agencies if not addressed. Lucas highlighted the need to ensure that federal infrastructure is protected and can adapt to increasingly sever conditions. He went on to stay that projects authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) must be built to last. Wednesday’s select committee hearing heard from a broader range of voices. [Dr. William Solecki](http://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220309/114480/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-SoleckiW-20220309.pdf) with the Department of Geography and Environmental Science at City University of New York’s Hunter College expressed concern with the increasingly significant changes in climate, and noted that while adaptation strategies are being adopted and implemented more and more throughout the country, the overall effectiveness of adaptation measures may further decrease due to more severe shifts in climate. [Dr. Lara Hansen](http://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220309/114480/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-HansenL-20220309.pdf), Executive Director of EcoAdapt- an organization focused on building capacity for and supporting implantation of adaptation measures- emphasized the need to approach decision making at all levels of government with a strong sense of climate risks and to implement climate change into agency decisions and missions. [Matthew Jewell](http://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220309/114480/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-JewellM-20220309-U1.pdf), President of St. Charles Parish, Louisiana, brought a local administrative perspective from a region of the country significantly impacted by more severe flooding and intense storms. Jewell expressed frustration with bureaucratic hurdles which in his view hinder flood protection and coastal restoration projects, emphasized the need for economic resilience, and expressed frustration with the challenges posed by national flood insurance regulations. Lastly, [Dr. Lauren Alexander Augustine](http://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220309/114480/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-AlexanderAugustineL-20220309.pdf), Executive Director of the Gulf Research Program at the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine, discussed the interconnectedness of infrastructure systems and why action to improve resilience is needed. Dr. Augustine further noted that given its resources and geography the Gulf region has the potential to provide an example of equitable and balanced approach to climate adaptation. From the outset, there was clear divergence in the focus of questions between Democrats and Republicans. Several Democrats on the committee, led by Chairwoman Kathy Castor (D-FL) geared their questions toward what was required for a proactive approach to climate adaptation and empowering local communities to drive action. Dr. Augustine noted the need for better and more actionable data, while Dr. Hansen emphasized the need for a whole of government approach. Many Republicans, including Congressman Earl “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) asked Mr. Jewell about challenges to communities posed by higher flood insurance rates and national flood insurance regulations. Mr. Jewell discussed increases in Louisiana home prices, even in areas with relatively low flood risk and the need to reduce regulatory burdens to address these challenges. At several times, the tone among select committee members became contentious on the subject of energy production. In his opening remarks, Ranking Member Garret Graves (R-LA) derided the Biden Administration for efforts to move away from reliance on fossil fuel production and called for increased production and export of oil and gas to alleviate higher fuel prices which have been further exacerbated by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Several other Republicans on the select committee also framed much of their questioning around what they viewed as a need for further fossil fuel production. Some Democrats on the select committee, including Congressman Jared Huffman (D-CA) and Sean Casten (D-IL) criticized their Republican colleagues overemphasizing fossil fuel production and development, argued for greater renewable energy development, and emphasized the risks increased fossil fuel use may have on the environment and climate change. [ASCE strongly supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps360---climate-change) efforts to adapt to the increasingly severe effects of climate change and enhance the resilience of the nation’s infrastructure to better standup to more extreme weather conditions. Government policies should anticipate and prepare for impacts of climate change on the built environment, and efforts must be made to identify critical infrastructure under greatest threat and enhance resiliency. ASCE has helped lead the way in support of policies which accomplish these goals. Most recently, [ASCE’s Texas Section released a report](https://www.texasce.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Reliability-Resilience-in-the-Balance-REPORT.pdf) in February of this year laying out a strategy for improving the state’s critical infrastructure resilience in the wake of the 2021 winter storms that resulted in more than 200 lives lost, and millions of Texas residents left without power or clean water service for several days. The report warns that these types of consequences will increase due to factors such as design shortcomings, aging equipment, and economic and population growth, even if the severity of weather events remains unchanged. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Committees%20Hold%20Hearings%20on%20Climate%20Adaptation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [House Passes Continuing Resolution To Keep Government Open Through Dec. 3](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-passes-continuing-resolution-to-keep-government-open-through-dec-3/) **Published:** September 22, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Representatives on Sept. 21 passed a continuing resolution that does not include an extension for transportation programs, signaling Congressional leaders may be prepared to agree on a significant infrastructure bill before federal funding authority expires. House members are expected to consider the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act by Sept. 27, just days before the Sept. 30 funding deadline. ASCE has applauded the IIJA, which outlines $550 billion in spending for roads, bridges, rail, airports, water systems, transit, and schools. The stopgap measure approved Sept. 21, which includes $28.6 billion in disaster relief funds, would keep federal agencies financially afloat through Dec. 3. Highlights from the continuing resolution include: ## Roads and Bridges - $2.6 billion to the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief Program, which reimburses states and territories for repairing roads and bridges on the National Highway System that have been damaged by natural disasters. ## U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - $3 billion to accelerate the construction of flood and storm damage reduction projects to minimize risk from future floods and hurricanes. Within this figure, $1.5 billion is for states that have declared a major disaster due to Hurricane Ida. - $2.081 billion to repair damages to Corps projects impacted by natural disasters. Specifically, these funds are split up into $368 million for Mississippi rivers and tributaries, $887 million for operations and maintenance, and $826 million for flood control and coastal emergencies. ## Aviation - $100 million to the Federal Aviation Administration to replace agency-owned buildings and equipment that were damaged by Hurricane Ida. These funds are meant to help restore full air traffic navigation and surveillance capabilities. ## Science and Commerce - $22 million for the National Institute of Standards and Technology to investigate building collapses in an effort to reduce the risk of similar building failures in the future. - $25 million for the National Science Foundation to help with unexpected disaster-related costs associated with research vessel construction. ## Natural Resources - $275 million for the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Emergency Watershed Protection Program, which is designed to help communities address damages to infrastructure that have been caused by natural disasters that impair watersheds. ASCE supports the sustainable and resilient reconstruction of areas that have been devastated by natural disasters. The stopgap measure now heads to the Senate for consideration. 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"Share by email")This week the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee passed the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America ([INVEST in America](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/ANS%20to%20HR%203684.pdf)) Act. After a marathon markup that lasted until 5 am on Thursday, T&I passed the final version of the INVEST in America Act. Vote was largely partisan ([38-26](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/PW/PW00/20210609/112745/CRPT-117-PW00-Vote038-20210609.pdf)) with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA1) and Resident Commissioner Jennifer González-Colón (R-PR) voting in favor of the legislation. The bill from House Democrats is a five-year $547 billion surface transportation authorization that provides $433 billion in Highway Trust Fund (HTF) spending, including $343 billion for highways, bridges, and safety projects; $109 billion for transit; $95 billion for freight and passenger rail; $8.3 billion to reduce carbon pollution; $6.2 billion for mitigation and resiliency improvements; and $5.7 billion in Member Designated Projects, or more commonly known as earmarks, which Congress brought back earlier this year. Beyond core investments, the INVEST in America Act emphasizes repairing the nation’s existing highway/road and bridge infrastructure and directing high investment levels to passenger rail, public transit, pedestrian (cycling and walking) infrastructure, addressing climate change impacts, as well as resilience. Topline funding levels include: - $334.2 billion ($226.5 billion under FAST Act) for the [**Federal Highway Administration (FHWA);**](https://highways.dot.gov/) - $108.5 billion ($61.1 billion under FAST Act) for the [**Federal Transit Administration (FTA);**](https://www.transit.dot.gov/) - $9.9 billion ($6.9 billion under FAST Act) for the [**National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)**](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) and the [**Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA);**](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/) - $94.6 billion ($10.3 billion under FAST Act) for the [**Federal Railroad Administration (FRA);**](https://railroads.dot.gov/) and - $5.7 billion in [Member Designated Projects](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/issue/member-designated-projects) (earmarks) Over 200 amendments were considered. Along with Chairman DeFazio’s [manager’s amendment](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Manager's%20Amendment%20to%20HR%203684.pdf), 3 Democratic and 8 Republican amendments were approved. These approved amendments would require transit agencies receiving federal funds to obey underlying federal law regarding rolling stock purchases, create a University Rail Climate Innovation Institute, require a Government Accountability Office (GAO) study on the utilization of nature-based solutions for improving the resilience of coastal highways and bridges, and require a joint FHWA and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) study of evacuation route vulnerability to flooding and storm surge. ASCE supports many of the provisions included in the legislation. [Executive Director Tom Smith noted](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/ASCE%20Support%20Letter_TI%20Surface%20Bill_FINAL.pdf), *“We applaud your efforts and offer our support for the INVEST in America Act. Your five-year, $547 billion authorization addresses the growing challenges facing our roads, bridges, and transit systems by providing a vital increase in funding levels to address project backlogs, provide much-needed program stability, and give added attention to safety, the impacts of climate change, and resiliency.”* In ASCE’s [2021 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems received the grades of “D,” “C,” and “D-” respectively. These poor grades reflect that 40-percent of our roadway system is currently in poor or mediocre condition, 46,154 bridges are still considered in “poor” condition, and there is a growing $176 billion transit project backlog with roughly 45-percent of Americans still lacking access to transit. These alarming conditions are felt in both urban and rural communities across the nation. Simply put, inaction is not an option, and strong leadership is needed to improve our safety and increase our economic competitiveness. In May, House Transportation and Infrastructure Republicans introduced the Surface Transportation Advanced through Reform, Technology, & Efficient Review [(STARTER) Act 2.0](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-ti-republicans-introduce-the-starter-act-2-0/). The Republican bill is a five-year authorization and provides $400 billion in funding for the federal highway, transit, and motor carrier and highway safety programs. STARTER Act 2.0 includes provisions that streamline project delivery, provides states flexibility in project selection, supports resilience, and provides HTF revenue solutions. House Republicans introduced the bill to share their surface transportation priorities after negotiations for a bipartisan bill with House Democrats failed. Over in the Senate, the Environment and Public Works Committee has [passed](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-2-surface-transportation-reauthorization-act.pdf) a bipartisan, five-year reauthorization, however the other committees of jurisdiction, namely Commerce, Banking and Finance have yet to release their own titles. With the House and Senate surface transportation bills possibly acting as a base for a broader infrastructure package, all eyes will be on House and Senate action over the upcoming weeks. Current authorization expires on September 30, 2021. 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Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-and-infrastructure-committee-passes-surface-transportation-reauthorization/), a $715 billion bill that reauthorizes surface transportation programs for five year and makes critical investments to the nation’s water infrastructure. The bill passed 221 – 201, with just two Republicans, Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), joining Democrats in support of the legislation. Leading to the floor for consideration, the House removed a key provision that would have established a national pilot for a vehicle mile traveled (VMT) fee, however maintained an increase in funding for state-level VMT pilots. Additionally, the House Ways and Means Committee did not offer a revenue title to support the needs of the Highway Trust Fund or provide financing opportunities, instead opting for a bailout from the General Fund. The final surface transportation portion of the legislation totals $592 billion, with $43.8 billion in general fund authorizations adopted on the floor through amendments. New or increased funding authorizations made by House amendments include: - $1.8 billion in additional general fund authorizations for the Federal Highway Administration’s Forest Service legacy roads and trails. - Reauthorization of the FAST Act’s Regional Accelerator demo program and the Historic Preservation Fund. - Increasing transportation equity research from $2 million to $8 million annually. - An additional $1 billion annually, over five years, in general fund authorizations for the new PRIME railroad grant program. - A $36.6 billion electric vehicles division of the legislation. Prior to the additional funding being added on the floor, the bill included $343 billion for highways, bridges, and safety projects; $109 billion for transit; $95 billion for freight and passenger rail; $8.3 billion to reduce carbon pollution; $6.2 billion for mitigation and resiliency improvements; and $5.7 billion in Member Designated Projects, or more commonly known as earmarks, which Congress brought back earlier this year. Additionally, prior to floor consideration, the House added [three key water bills](https://rules.house.gov/sites/democrats.rules.house.gov/files/BILLS-117HR3684RH-RCP117-9.pdf) to the INVEST in America Act. These bills include H.R. 3293 and H.R. 1915, both which [ASCE has endorsed,](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B75d8efd4-dca3-42fd-b208-11c8ff6587b3%7D_ASCE_Letter_of_Support_HR_3293_5.21.21.pdf?) and H.R. 3291. - R. 3293, or the Low-Income Water Customer Assistance Program Act, creates a permanent, nationwide program for low-income water customer assistance and directs the EPA to provide technical assistance funding to states to ensure maximum enrollment of eligible households. - R. 3291 authorizes $53 billion over 10 years for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, as well as $45 billion to fully replace lead service lines throughout the country. - R. 1915, or the Water Quality Protection and Job Creation Act of 2021, authorizes $50 billion in wastewater and stormwater infrastructure funding over five years. During debate, the House approved 27 amendments to the water title, including an amendment that would require any wastewater utility receiving funding from the Clean Water SRF to first undergo a climate resiliency assessment to ensure the infrastructure is prepared for future droughts and storms. House passage of a surface transportation reauthorization, as well as of language that address the Clean Water and Drinking Water state revolving funds, comes after the Senate [Environment and Public Works](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-epw-introduces-bipartisan-surface-transportation-bill/) Committee and the Senate [Commerce](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-commerce-passes-bipartisan-surface-transportation-reauthorization/) Committee passed their portions of the surface transportation bill and after the full Senate passed S. 914, a $35 billion drinking water and wastewater bill. The question now remains, how will the House surface transportation bill be linked to broader efforts to pass an infrastructure package? While in a normal reauthorization year, we could expect a conference with a Senate counterpart, the House bill might eventually be conferenced with a bipartisan, broader, infrastructure agreement that has been carefully negotiated with a group of Senators and the White House. With legislative text still anticipated on the Senate agreement, the question will become if the Senate and House can get a reauthorization to the President before programs expire on September 30th. To read more, click [here](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-invest-america-act-final-2.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Passes%20Surface%20Transportation%20and%20Water%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [House T&I Republicans Introduce the STARTER Act 2.0](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-ti-republicans-introduce-the-starter-act-2-0/) **Published:** May 19, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Member Sam Graves (R-MO6), and other Republican Committee leaders, introduced the Surface Transportation Advanced through Reform, Technology, & Efficient Review [(STARTER) Act 2.0](https://republicans-transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/final_starter_act_2.0_bill_text.pdf?utm_campaign=196800-345). This is the latest and most detailed surface transportation reauthorization released by either party in either chamber this Congress. The legislation maintains Republican surface transportation priorities and provides lawmakers a negotiating position leading into the eventual release of Chairman DeFazio’s (D-OR4) surface transportation reauthorization bill. This five-year authorization provides $400 billion in funding for the federal highway, transit, and motor carrier and highway safety programs. This represents a 32% increase from [FAST Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/) funding levels and the legislation provides that any increase in Highway Trust Fund (HTF) contract authority above FAST Act funding levels go to the [National Highway Performance Program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/factsheets/nhppfs.cfm) (NHPP), the [Surface Transportation Block Grant Program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/specialfunding/stp/) (STBGP), the [Highway Safety Improvement Program](https://safety.fhwa.dot.gov/hsip/) (HSIP), the [National Highway Freight Program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/factsheets/nhfpfs.cfm) (NHFP), and the [Rural Area Formula Grant Program](https://www.transit.dot.gov/rural-formula-grants-5311#:~:text=The%20Formula%20Grants%20for%20Rural,transit%20to%20reach%20their%20destinations.). Beyond top-line funding levels, STARTER Act 2.0 includes provisions that streamline project delivery, provides states flexibility in project selection, supports resilience, and provides Highway Trust Fund revenue solutions. Specifically, this legislation includes: ## **Project Delivery and State Flexibility** - Creates a government-wide goal of limiting the time required for environmental reviews and authorization for major infrastructure projects to two years from the publication of a notice of intent to prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS), to issuance of a record of decision(ROD) under the [National Environmental Policy Act](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-562---national-environmental-policy-act/) (NEPA). - Federal agencies are required to develop a single permitting timetable for environmental review and authorization decision. - Sets page limits of 150 pages for an EIS, and 75 pages for an environmental assessment (EA). - Project sponsors are allowed to assist agencies in conducting environmental reviews to reduce process timeline and resolve issues without taking control or authority away from the lead agency. ## **Resilience** - States may use up to 15% of their NHPP funds for protective features to improve resiliency of a Federal-aid highway or bridge off the National Highway System. - The legislation creates the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT) grant program which provides funding for highway projects that will reduce the cost and risk related to natural disasters. This [provision](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-panel-moves-on-surface-transportation-bill/) was also included in Senate EPW’s America’s Transportation Infrastructure Act of 2019 (ATIA). - Increases the authorization in the federal cost share in highway funding for activities that are designed and demonstrate reduction in cost and risk associated with extreme weather events, flooding, or other natural disasters. - Under the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Emergency Relief Program, funding for mitigation activities must support projects that are cost beneficial and will reduce actual risk. ## **Highway Trust Fund Solvency** - Creates at DOT a national pilot program with Department of Treasury coordination, a test vehicle miles travelled (VMT) reporting and revenue collection mechanism system. - Establishes a national advisory board to coordinate broader testing and the study of a per-mile road usage charge. - Sets October 1, 2026, for the DOT Secretary to establish a national implementation pilot program for government-owned vehicles. This legislation also makes the Better Utilizing Investments to leverage Development [(BUILD) Grant](https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants) program permanent, increases the statutory cap of surface transportation private activity bonds from $15 billion to $45 billion, and directs the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the FTA to update their joint environmental and planning regulations. In ASCE’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems received a “D,” “C,” and “D-”. We applaud the efforts of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Sam Graves (R-MO6) and his staff in developing a comprehensive bill that will help address the needs of our ever-changing surface transportation system. As Chairman DeFazio and his staff continue to develop reauthorization legislation, we urge lawmakers to act quickly to meet the September 30th deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20T%26I%20Republicans%20Introduce%20the%20STARTER%20Act%202.0&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Ports, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit --- ### [House Science Committee Continues Focus on Research and Development](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-science-committee-continues-focus-on-research-and-development/) **Published:** July 29, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Technology Committee](https://science.house.gov/news/press-releases/chairwoman-johnson-and-ranking-member-lucas-celebrate-successful-markup-of-five-bipartisan-innovation-bills-) added [five more bills](https://science.house.gov/markups/full-committee-markup-of-hr-4609-hr-3858-hr-4588-hr-4606-hr-4599) to its efforts to enhance and expand the nation’s research enterprises. The five bills join with previous passed legislation, including t[he National Science Foundation for the Future Act ](https://science.house.gov/imo/media/doc/HR2225%20Subcommitee%20Report.pdf)and the [Department of Energy for the Future Act](https://science.house.gov/imo/media/doc/HR%203593.pdf), to form a package of legislation that will need to be conferenced with [the U.S. Innovation and Competition Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/senate-bill/1260), the sprawling R&D and anti-China bill passed by the Senate last month. ASCE has expressed [support](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-letter-science-committee.pdf) of the efforts in both the House and the Senate and has urged Congress to work together to enact legislation to strengthen our nation’s research enterprise. ASCE believes that a continued strong commitment to our science and research needs will facilitate durable, secure, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure systems that will meet the needs of the 21st century and protect the public health, safety, welfare, and the environment. The Senate bill’s emphasis on the commercial consequences of science and tech policy, as opposed to its impact on the research community, typifies the split between the Senate and House on R&D. Rep. Michael Waltz (R-FL), a key player in the House Science Committee, noted Congress’ ultimate R&D strategy will need to be hammered out in a conference committee addressing a broad slate of science and tech provisions. That effort will likely take place in the fall. Waltz is the primary sponsor of the National Science and Technology Strategy Act, among the bills approved by the Science Committee. The bill tasks the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Science and Technology Council with developing a comprehensive science and tech strategy every four years and mandates a quadrennial review of federal science and tech policy. Waltz believes provisions should harmonize the “disjointed” R&D efforts he now sees across agencies as diverse as the National Science Foundation, the Energy Department, and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Committee Chair Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) agreed that the bills will be critical as Congress continues to build a robust, comprehensive, and bipartisan innovation package that will help ensure the United States remains competitive. Additionally, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for the Future Act would update policies for programs across NIST and recommend that Congress increase the agency’s annual budget to nearly $1.6 billion by fiscal year (FY) 2026, largely to expand its research in areas such as engineering biology, greenhouse gas measurement, quantum information science, artificial intelligence, and advanced communications, among other areas. Other bills approved as part of the package include H.R. 4588, the Regional Innovation Act of 2021, which would, among other provisions, require the Commerce Department to create no fewer than 10 regional technology innovation hubs and recommend nearly $7 billion for the program spanning FY 2022 through FY 2026. H.R. 4606, the “Energizing Technology Transfer Act,” would support the commercialization of clean energy technologies and research supported by the Department of Energy. And finally, H.R. 4599, the Steel Upgrading Partnerships and Emissions Reduction Act which supports R&D on reducing the carbon footprint of steel manufacturing. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Science%20Committee%20Continues%20Focus%20on%20Research%20and%20Development&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Imagine a Day Without Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water/) **Published:** October 21, 2021 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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our nation’s infrastructure in providing us with clean and safe water. More than 2 million miles of underground pipes provide millions of people with safe drinking water. Wastewater infrastructure, including more than 800,000 miles of sewer pipes, collect waste from homes, businesses, and industrial sites throughout the country in order to protect the environment and safeguard public health. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, 39 billion gallons of water are used by the public every day. Unfortunately, this vital infrastructure is in critical need of investment, repair, and revitalization. More than 16,000 wastewater treatment plants throughout the country currently function at 81 percent of their design capacity, and 15 percent have reached or exceeded that capacity. Drinking water systems are rapidly aging. It is estimated that there is a water main break in the United States every two minutes, and an estimated 6 billion gallons of treated water lost every day. Federal funding for drinking water infrastructure has failed to keep up with the needs of aging water infrastructure. By 2029, it is estimated that the gap between drinking and wastewater infrastructure investment and funding needs will reach more than $430 billion. In its [2021 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), ASCE gave our nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure grades of C- and D+ respectively. We are at a moment where bold action is needed to strengthen our nation’s water infrastructure, and ensure that all Americans have access to clean and functioning drinking water and water systems. ![Banner about aging drinking and wastewater systems after 100+ years; promotes 'Imagine a Day Without Water' (Oct 21, 2021).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iadww_2021_facebook_100-years.png "iadww_2021_facebook_100-years") That is why legislative action like the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is so critical. The IIJA invests $55 billion for upgrades to water infrastructure. This includes $43 billion to reauthorize the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, $15 billion to replace lead service lines, and $280 million annually for sanitary sewer overflows and stormwater reuse grants. It will also invest $75 million annually for research to help support water treatment center training and to address water pollution. As you participate in this year’s Imagine a Day Without Water, it remains important to remember everything that goes into providing everyone with safe water to drink and effective water treatment systems. They are vital, and in need of upkeep and modernization. But while our nation’s water infrastructure is in need of significant investment, a day without water is not a foregone conclusion. Let’s continue to do the work needed to ensure we all have access to clean water. 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Climate Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nations-converge-on-glasgow-for-u-n-climate-summit/) **Published:** November 4, 2021 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, world leaders met in Glasgow, Scotland for the start of the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26). This year’s conference, like those of years past, convenes with the ultimate goal of setting the world on a path to preventing global temperatures from rising by more than 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-Industrial Revolution temperatures. [Experts warn](https://www.npr.org/2021/05/26/1000465487/earth-is-barreling-toward-1-5-degrees-celsius-of-warming-scientists-warn) that this is the threshold where the effects of global climate change become catastrophic and will have irreversible long-term effects. The conference meets at a dire moment in the climate crisis. According to the [National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)](https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/2020-tied-for-warmest-year-on-record-nasa-analysis-shows), 2020 was tied with 2016 for the warmest year on record. In September, the [World Meteorological Organization (WMO)](https://public.wmo.int/en/media/press-release/climate-change-and-impacts-accelerate) said that despite a brief slowdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic, carbon emissions have greatly recovered, causing more extreme weather events and increasing the chances of global temperatures surpassing the 1.5-degree threshold in the next five years. The rapidly increasing threat has led to COP26 being billed as [“the world’s best last chance to get runaway climate change under control.”](https://ukcop26.org/uk-presidency/what-is-a-cop/) ## **Global Commitments** During the conference’s first week, world leaders announced agreements on several actions to mitigate and reverse the effects of climate change. These actions are intended to be critical aspects of a wide-ranging strategy and commitment to achieve a global goal of net-zero carbon emissions by mid-century. The United States and the European Union [announced a commitment](https://www.politico.eu/article/cop26-100-countries-reducing-methane-emissions/) signed by more than 100 nations to cut methane gas emissions by 30 percent by the end of the decade. Aside from carbon dioxide, methane emissions are the second largest contributor to climate change among greenhouse gases, and account for [10 percent](https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases) of all U.S. greenhouse emissions. The U.S. and E.U. believe that if all nations follow through on this commitment to methane reduction, then it will result in reducing global warming by 0.2 degrees Celsius by 2050. Leaders also announced a [pledge to end and reverse the effects of global deforestation](https://ukcop26.org/glasgow-leaders-declaration-on-forests-and-land-use/) by 2030. The pledge, which was signed by more than 130 countries [representing more than 85 percent of the world’s forestland](https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-59088498), includes commitments to forest and ecosystem conservation, sustainable trade and development practices, and significant financial commitments. It is estimated that deforestation and the carbon released from felled trees account for [roughly 10 percent of global greenhouse emissions](https://www.rainforest-alliance.org/insights/what-is-the-relationship-between-deforestation-and-climate-change/). Finally, more than twenty nations, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, [pledged](https://ukcop26.org/statement-on-international-public-support-for-the-clean-energy-transition/) to end international subsidies for fossil fuel development. This pledge represents a step toward abandoning the use of fossil fuels entirely in favor of renewable sources. [According to the Natural Resources Defense Council](https://www.nrdc.org/media/2021/211104), this agreement will assist in transitioning to renewable energy and slowing global warming but warned that it will require a full and total commitment from the U.S. Government. ## **Expert Discussions** In addition to the announcement of various agreements and pledges negotiated by global leaders, the conference’s [Green Zone Programme of Events](https://ukcop26.org/the-conference/green-zone-programme-of-events/) included numerous panel discussions focused on the many challenges posed by climate change, and also innovative and practical solutions that can help to address these challenges. Many of these discussions focused on resiliency, adaptation, and sustainability. On Tuesday, several U.K. water policy experts [participated in a discussion](https://youtu.be/yb2d_Llgggs) on the importance of nature-based solutions to combat the effects of climate change and the role of the natural environment in strengthening water infrastructure. Tony Juniper of Natural England noted that natural structures, such as peatlands, can absorb more carbon, thus increasing the supply of clean water. Such features can also provide natural flood controls by slowing down water flows. Others noted that expanding natural structures can support efficient wastewater systems by reducing the amount of rainwater in combined sewers, and can ultimately reduce stressors on wastewater treatment systems. [ASCE supports the utilization of natural systems](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps488---greenhouse-gases) as means of reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural systems and features such as [flood plans](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps421---floodplain-management) to mitigate flood risks and effectively manage water flows. The built environment’s resilience to the impacts of climate change was a subject covered during a [session](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cjr8xbrwr1g) held on Thursday. Speakers noted that engagement from a wide variety of stakeholders—including engineers, industry groups, investors, contractors, and government agencies—are key in the effort to decarbonize buildings as a means of addressing climate change. ASCE [supports](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps360---climate-change) government policies that prepare for the impacts of climate change on the built environment. With regard to structures, modern, updated building codes are a reliable way to ensure infrastructure is resilient, and ASCE supports funding for research needed to develop model building codes. [ASCE 7](https://www.asce.org/publications-and-news/asce-7) is one of several of the Society’s documents that offers a basis for designing structures that can reasonably withstand the ever-increasing impacts of climate change. ## **An Ongoing Challenge** Despite commitments made during the first week of COP26, significant challenges remain. While the commitments made by leaders would, if fulfilled, end deforestation, reduce greenhouse emissions, and move away from fossil fuels, many argue for caution or even outright skepticism. While the Biden Administration was committed to the goals of COP26 and put forward policies to meet these goals, similar pledges were also made by the United States under the Paris Climate Agreement only for former President Donald Trump to withdraw the U.S. from the agreement during his administration. Despite concerns, there remains a consensus that action needs to be taken immediately. If it is not, with increasingly powerful storms, extreme weather, and rising sea levels, it may end up being too late. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Nations%20Converge%20on%20Glasgow%20for%20U.N.%20Climate%20Summit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Now Available for ASCE Members: The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/now-available-for-asce-members-the-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-implementation-resource-center/) **Published:** January 20, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The landmark legislation, signed into law last November, includes $1.2 trillion in infrastructure investments, distributed through existing and new programs. All 17 categories in the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* stand to benefit from the legislation. The new IIJA Implementation Resource Center is a one-stop shop for understanding and tracking implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law. The resource includes open grant applications, announcements on funding decisions, opportunities to influence implementation, and upcoming deadlines, all sorted by Report Card category. [![Suspension bridge over water at sunset with cables visible and mountains in distance, holiday/landscape scene.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/BlogImageIIJAResourceCenter-400x236.jpg "BlogImageIIJAResourceCenter")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act became law at a critical moment as the U.S. economy continues to recover and effectively provides a down payment after persistent underinvestment in the nation’s infrastructure. ASCE was instrumental in passing the IIJA and the final legislation addressed 47 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* solutions. Going forward, it is critical that the law is implemented efficiently and resources used wisely because there are infrastructure projects across the nation that need urgent attention. Society members will help ensure that funding is distributed in a timely and responsible manner. ASCE members can access the IIJA Implementation Resource Center by clicking the link below or visiting infrastructurereportcard.org/IIJAResources. **The password to access the internal pages can be found in a recent *This Week in Washington* edition or by emailing reportcard@asce.org.** > [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) For information on how to join ASCE, visit the [ASCE website.](https://www.asce.org/membership/join) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Now%20is%20the%20Time%20for%20Strong%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20%C2%A0&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/John-Barton-150x200-1.jpg "John Barton 150x200 (1)")Guest Post by [John Barton](https://www.hntb.com/people/john-barton/), PE, Senior Vice President, [HNTB](https://www.hntb.com/)* ## **We can do better** Infrastructure investment is needed now. Clearly the last 15 months have taught us the urgency of why now is the time. The lack of spending on infrastructure has been devasting. Blackouts in Texas. Wildfires in California, Oregon and Colorado. The alphabetical names of hurricanes have been used up. Natural disasters continue to strike while the nation is dealing with the impacts of a global pandemic. The human toll is enormous. The price paid by the economy, our transportation system and other infrastructure is, too. With these types of events becoming more commonplace, we can clearly see how important a resilient infrastructure network is to response, recovery and saving lives. But our infrastructure hasn’t changed. It is still crumbling and is inadequate to handle the stresses of emergencies and disasters reliably and equitably. According to ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the nation earned an overall grade of C-. This means our infrastructure is in mediocre condition and we can do better. ## Path forward** The path to resilient infrastructure starts with a level of investment in our infrastructure that allows us to better prepare for the life-changing events to come so that our systems can better handle high-stress situations while protecting family, friends and neighbors in our communities. With this investment we can establish a constructive regulatory and policy environment that incorporates resilience into every stage of the program/project cycle. Making resilient infrastructure a reality requires industry standards along with forward-looking approaches that allow infrastructure to act as a natural buffer, thus lessening negative impacts of a catastrophic event and allowing for quicker recovery time. Building resiliency goes beyond physical infrastructure. It also involves thoughtfully embedding resiliency inside organizations — ensuring that they have systems and processes in place that allow them to adapt, adjust, evolve and respond to change and emerging challenges. Investing today in resiliency will create jobs, improve communities, strengthen economies and minimize costs in the wake of future natural disasters and prevent these disasters from turning into catastrophes. By prioritizing infrastructure now, we are investing in not only in the economic health of our nation, but also its physical health. *Mr. Barton is a senior vice president for HNTB and serves as the firm’s professional services chair, national Department of Transportation market sector leader and interim national bridge leader. He develops and directs strategies that enhance HNTB’s services to transportation sectors across the country. Mr. Barton’s 30-plus years of experience in the transportation industry enable him to speak about a variety of transportation topics, including U.S. infrastructure investment, Highway Trust Fund solvency and diverse funding sources, efficient infrastructure investments, resiliency and sophisticated engineering approaches and solutions.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Now%20is%20the%20Time%20for%20Strong%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20%C2%A0&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Public Parks, Roads, Transit, Uncategorized, Wastewater --- ### [President Biden Releases FY22 ‘Skinny Budget’](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-biden-releases-fy22-skinny-budget/) **Published:** April 15, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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trillion budget request](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/FY2022-Discretionary-Request.pdf) for discretionary appropriations in fiscal year (FY) 2022. Known as the ‘skinny budget,’ the document provides the first glimpse of President Biden’s spending priorities. The 58- page budget request is the first since 2013 that is not tied to spending caps, which Congress has implemented in the past to ensure discretionary defense spending and discretionary non-defense spending grow at approximately the same rate. Overall, this initial insight to the President’s request shows a 16% increase in non-defense spending to $769 billion, while defense spending would see only a 1.7% increase to $753 billion. It is important to note that the skinny budget does not reflect further details on the $2.2 trillion [American Jobs Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-biden-unveils-infrastructure-plan/) or changes in taxation. These details will be included in a full budget proposal, which will be submitted later this spring. ASCE has reviewed the proposal for some initial understanding about the President’s infrastructure spending priorities. Key infrastructure figures include: - **$25.6 billion for the Department of Transportation (DOT).** This is a $317 million increase from the FY21 enacted level providing a $3.2 billion, or a 14% increase, for DOT discretionary programs. Included under the increase in discretionary programs is $2.7 billion, or a 5% increase, for Amtrak; $2.5 billion, or a 23% increase, for the Capital Investment Grant program; $625 million for a new passenger rail competitive grant program; $110 million in new funding for grants and technical assistance to communities to improve access to destinations and foster community vibrancy; and $1 billion for the BUILD grant program. - **$11.2 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).** This is a $2 billion, or 21.3%, increase from the FY21 enacted level. Included under the request for EPA is $3.6 billion for water infrastructure, an increase of $625 million over the FY21 enacted levels; $1.8 billion in programs that would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions; $882 million for the Superfund Remedial program; and $75 million to accelerate toxicity studies related to PFAS. - **$46.1 billion for the Department of Energy (DOE).** This is a $4.3 billion, or 10.2%, increase from the FY21 enacted level. Included under the request for DOE is $1.9 billion in a Building Clean Energy Projects and Workforce Initiative, $1 billion for a new Advanced Research Projects Agency for Climate, and $7.4 billion in the Office of Science to better study climate change impacts. - **$27.8 billion for the Department of Agriculture (USDA).** This is a $3.8 billion, or 16%, increase from the FY21 enacted level. Included under the request for USDA is $65 million over FY21 enacted levels for Reconnect, grant and loan program to deploy broadband, and $717 million for Rural Water and Wastewater Grants and Loans which is a $100 million increase over FY21 enacted levels. - **$17.4 billion for the Department of Interior (DOI).** This is a $2.4 billion, or 16%, increase from the FY21 enacted level. Included under this request for DOI is $550 million over the FY21 enacted level to decrease climate pollution and accelerate clean energy deployment and $200 million to provide information about the impacts of climate change and how best to implement mitigation, adaptation, and resilience efforts. - **$11.4 billion for the Department of Commerce.** This is a $2.5 billion, or 28%, increase from the FY21 enacted level. This includes $916 million to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for research activities and an additional $1.4 billion to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to conduct climate research and help the most vulnerable communities. - **$6.8 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Civil Works Program.** This represents a 13% decrease from the FY21 enacted level of $7.8 billion. This cut to the Corps of Engineers is common in Presidential budgets, as they look to offset big budget increases elsewhere. ***For science and education, the proposal includes:*** - **$102.8 billion for the Department of Education (ED).** This is a $30 billion, or 41%, increase FY21 enacted levels. Specific number were not presented but increases mentioned for higher education Pell Grants and STEM programs. - **$10.2 billion for the National Science Foundation (NSF).** This is an increase of $1.7 billion, or 19.8%, increase FY21 enacted levels. In a change of pace from recent years budget requests, NSF is the big winner among the science agencies. Within the 19.8% increase for the Foundation, the research and education accounts together will increase by $1.6 billion over FY21 levels. - **$24.7 billion for the National Aeronautics and Atmospheric Administration (NASA).** This is an increase of $1.5 billion, or 6.3%, increase FY21 enacted levels. There are scientific and engineering missions called out in the budget document, but no specific breakdown of budget numbers below the top line. President Biden’s detailed budget request is expected to be delivered to Congress in the coming weeks. Both the House and Senate Appropriations Committee will then begin to review the requests as they develop their 12 annual spending bills. Current government funding expires on September 30th. ASCE applauds the White House’s commitment to making strong investments in our nation’s infrastructure. We urge Congress to fund these agencies and successful programs, especially those included in our FY22 appropriations request letters. Providing more funding to core programs will reduce overhead costs and startup time while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across all sectors of U.S. infrastructure. Our infrastructure is the backbone of our nation’s economy, and we ask Congress to engage in bold leadership so that we can restore America’s world-class infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Biden%20Releases%20FY22%20%E2%80%98Skinny%20Budget%E2%80%99&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [President Biden Unveils Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-biden-unveils-infrastructure-plan/) **Published:** April 1, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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generational investment in our nation’s most critical assets and the largest infrastructure package that this country has seen in over five decades. The $2.2 trillion, eight-year, [American Jobs Plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/03/31/fact-sheet-the-american-jobs-plan/) will go a long way to ensure that our nation’s infrastructure continues to improve in the upcoming decade and ASCE applauds President Biden his truly historic proposal. Overall, the President’s plan invests an additional 1 percent of GDP per year over eight years to upgrade our nation’s infrastructure, revitalize manufacturing, invest in basic research and science, shore up supply chains, and solidify our care infrastructure. Additionally, the focus is rightly on tackling the maintenance backlog for our transportation, water, and freight systems, enabling “shovel worthy” ideas to get across the finish line, ensuring new projects result in systems that are more resilient, investing in transmission lines to connect the grid, and reflects that our infrastructure is truly a connected system that is only as strong as its weakest link. Therefore, beyond raising the [ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/) grades, the investments proposed in the American Jobs Plan could result in long-term economic gains for American families and businesses. The American Jobs Plan would cut significantly into the 10-year, [$2.59 trillion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resources/investment-gap-2020-2029/) funding gap that ASCE has identified and ensures that the federal government is working with state and local governments to make these much-needed investments. As the nation looks to revitalize and jumpstart the economy after the COVID-19 downturn, ASCE believes that infrastructure investment is the key to long-term recovery and prosperity, as well as providing access and opportunity to communities across the country. Some of the highlights of the bill that tie directly to ASCE priorities include: - **$621 billion in transportation infrastructure and resilience**. - $115 billion to **modernize the bridges, highways, roads, and main streets** that are in most critical need of repair. - $20 billion to improve **road safety** for all users. - $85 billion to **modernize existing transit.** - $80 billion to address **Amtrak’s repair backlog.** - $174 billion investment **in the EV market.** - $25 billion in our **airports, including funding for the Airport Improvement Program** - $17 billion in **inland waterways, coastal ports, land ports of entry, and ferries, which are all essential to our nation’s freight.** - $20 billion for a **new program that will reconnect neighborhoods** cut off by historic transportation investments. - $25 billion for a dedicated fund to support **ambitious projects** that have tangible benefits to the regional or national economy but are too large or complex for existing funding programs. - $50 billion in dedicated investments to improve **infrastructure resilience** with a focus on safeguarding critical infrastructure and defending vulnerable communities. - **$111 billion to rebuild drinking water infrastructure:** - Replace **100% of lead drinking water line**s with $45 billion EPA investment through the drinking water state revolving loan fund and Water Infrastructure Improvements for the National Act grants. - $10 billion to monitor and remediate **PFAS**. - $56 billion in grants and loans to **upgrade and modernize drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems.** - **$100 billion for power infrastructure:** - An expanded direct-pay investment tax credit and production tax credit for clean energy generation and storage. - $16 billion to **plug orphan oil and gas wells and cleaning up abandoned mines.** - **$5 billion investment in the remediation and redevelopment of Brownfield and Superfund sites** - **$100 billion to upgrade and build new public schools, especially improving indoor air quality and ventilation.** - **$100 billion** **to reach 100 percent** **high-speed broadband** coverage and make such coverage affordable. - **$35 billion investment in research into climate science.** As we look ahead, it is important to note that Congress still needs to develop and introduce legislation, so the American Jobs Plan is a starting point and many still hope for bipartisan legislation. However, due to the proposed pay-fors, primarily a roll-back of the Trump era corporate tax cuts, many expect that Democrats will attempt to move the plan under budget reconciliation procedures to improve the chances of passage. If Congress does move the bill under budget reconciliation, it means that the infrastructure package will not be able to contain the surface transportation reauthorization bill’s policy changes, and that bill will need to move separately before the FAST Act expires on September 30th. The surface transportation reauthorization and addressing the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund will also require its own pay-for, as the Highway Trust Fund will not be able to support a multi-year bill at the current gas tax rate. What we do know is that the upcoming weeks and months will be critical as Congress debates a final bill. President Biden’s proposal is one of the first opportunities in years to see significant investments in our nation’s infrastructure and ASCE looks forward to working with both the Administration and Members of Congress on this crucial, bipartisan, issue. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Biden%20Unveils%20Infrastructure%20Plan&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [President Biden Takes Office and Infrastructure Takes Center Stage](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-biden-takes-office-and-infrastructure-takes-center-stage/) **Published:** January 21, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Shortly after taking office, President Biden issued a series of [Executive Orders](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/) (EOs), with additional EOs expected in the upcoming weeks. Immediate actions have been aimed at combatting the COVID-19 pandemic, rejoining the Paris Climate Accord, immigration, and dealing with the ongoing economic crisis. President Biden has also released an Executive Order which is aimed to reverse many of the Trump Administration’s energy and environment policies. That order identifies several EPA regulations that will be targeted for reconsideration, including: methane emission limits for new oil and gas sources; rules rolling back tailpipe carbon dioxide limits and revoking California’s special regulatory waiver; the science transparency rule; the Clean Air Act cost-benefit analysis rule; and the agency’s finding that mercury limits for power plants were not “appropriate and necessary”. Once the initial onslaught of Executive Orders slows, expect President Biden to turn his attention to his $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief proposal that he unveiled last week. That proposal, billed as the [American Rescue Plan](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2021-01-15-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=58631&elqTrackId=6388B1AB490577B5F0E88DB4E089C3F7&elq=c3fbfe878a584712a124c1b194186934&elqaid=25730&elqat=1), includes $20 billion for transit agencies and is a prelude to a further economic relief package that the President will unveil in the upcoming weeks. President Biden has indicated that he wants to spend [$2 trillion on infrastructure](https://www.npr.org/2020/07/09/889347429/biden-counters-trumps-america-first-with-build-back-better-economic-plan), including $50 billion on roads and bridges in just his first year. The President’s plan also is expected to focus on green infrastructure, water systems, the electric grid, and broadband – all investments that would be made sustainably in order to withstand the impacts of climate change and improve public health. The President’s desire to move a big infrastructure package, combined Democratic control of both the House and Senate – the President’s own party— provides a real opportunity in 2021 to make a significant investment in our nation’s infrastructure. As Congress works with the Administration to develop a either a comprehensive infrastructure package, or a series of sector-specific bills, [ASCE has asked Congress](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-117th-priorities-letter-to-administration-congress.pdf) to consider certain key priorities for any investments. These include ensuring that any infrastructure legislation is aimed at helping the nation prepare for a sustainable and resilient future, prioritizing asset management and O&M needs, and restoring a strong federal partner in infrastructure investment. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Biden%20Takes%20Office%20and%20Infrastructure%20Takes%20Center%20Stage&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Regulating PFAS: EPA Announces "Roadmap" to Address Forever Chemicals](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/regulating-pfas-epa-announces-roadmap-to-address-forever-chemicals/) **Published:** October 21, 2021 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Regulating%20PFAS%3A%20EPA%20Announces%20%E2%80%9CRoadmap%E2%80%9D%20to%20Address%20Forever%20Chemicals&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) put forward its plan to address the challenges posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The [PFAS Strategic Roadmap](https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-strategic-roadmap-epas-commitments-action-2021-2024) outlines EPA’s plan of action to address the public health and environmental threats these substances pose. The plan was produced by the EPA PFAS Council, which was [established](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-administrator-regan-establishes-new-council-pfas) by Administrator Michael Regan in April of this year to build on existing work and to help to alleviate the effects of PFAS. ## **What are PFAS and Why are they a Problem?** PFAS are a broad category of manmade chemicals which are found in many commonly used products such as cookware and food packaging, and have also been used by fire departments due to their flame retardant nature. The trouble is that these chemicals do not break down naturally in the environment, which is why PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals”. Because these substances are found in so many commonly used products they [can easily contaminate](https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/forever-chemicals-are-widespread-in-u-s-drinking-water/) drinking water, soil, and the atmosphere. This in turn leads to numerous health risks to human beings. Exposure to PFAS [is widespread and has been shown to be linked to numerous diseases](https://web.uri.edu/steep/pfas/health-risks/) such as ulcerative colitis, thyroid disease, and kidney and testicular cancer. Fixing the damage caused by PFAS is also a costly and arduous proposition. According to [a recent report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO)](https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-21-421.pdf), the Department of Defense is expected $2.1 billion in FY 2021 costs for PFAS clean-up efforts for its use of firefighting foam containing these chemicals, and it is estimated that the process could take decades to complete. Additionally, ASCE’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card notes the risks PFAS pose to the nation’s [wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Wastewater-2021.pdf), warning that as threats to the environment and human health increase, so will the need for increasingly costly improvements to wastewater treatment systems. ![Infographic showing how PFAS from manufacturing, landfills, and firefighting foam contaminate groundwater, wells, and drinking water.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Picture1-400x359.png "Picture1") ## **What Is in the Plan?** The proposed roadmap lays out a comprehensive “lifecycle approach” to addressing PFAS. Because PFAS are released into the environment at every state of its lifecycle from manufacture to disposal, and because products containing these substances remain widely used, EPA is placing an emphasis on getting “upstream of the problem”, meaning EPA will prioritize addressing PFAS before it can enter the environment. By taking on the challenge early in the lifecycle process, EPA believes it will be easier to address challenges “downstream” (environmental contamination, human exposure, associated health issues). EPA’s approach is centered around three primary mandates. The first is investment in research and development to better understand the impact of PFAS on the environment and on human health. Second, the roadmap lays out plans to place restrictions on PFAS in order to prevent widespread contamination. Third, EPA lays out plans to remediate the damage caused by PFAS by speeding up cleanup activity. Using this framework, EPA has outlined several actions it intends to take over the next four years. Beginning as soon as this Fall, EPA program offices will begin implementing several research and evaluation actions. These actions include publishing a national PFAS testing strategy, issuing a final rule on a nationwide PFAS monitoring system for drinking water, and developing a system to monitor and mitigate PFAS air contamination. Going forward, the agency will take further actions to restrict the use of PFAS to limit contamination and exposure. Expected to be carried out between 2022 and 2023, these actions include restricting the resumption of PFAS manufacturing that had been previously abandoned without providing proper notice of new use, restricting PFAS discharges from several industrial sources, and designating particularly harmful PFAS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Finally, EPA’s roadmap describes actions it is taking and plans to take to remediate the effects of PFAS contamination, which include evaluation and development of technologies to reduce the presence of PFAS in the environment, and issuing updated guidance for destroying and disposing of certain PFAS and materials which contain certain PFAS. ## **Oversight and Engagement** On Wednesday, Assistant Administrator Radhika Fox with EPA’s Office of Water [testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=A426A1B2-B066-4128-86A1-08578A1FBC34) to discuss the roadmap and the agency’s work to address PFAS. In her testimony, Fox heralded the plan as an important step forward in the fight against PFAS, saying the proposals put forward in the plan would lead to “enduring protections for communities across America.” Fox faced a number of questions regarding the roadmap’s scope and proposed actions. She emphasized the need to learn more about many of the thousands of types of substances under the PFAS classification in order to build a stronger scientific foundation for future action. Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) expressed frustration with the plan, particularly the proposed timeline to implement certain regulations pertaining to PFAS levels in drinking water, arguing that more immediate action was needed. Fox pointed out that the roadmap outlines EPA’s plan to put forward a proposed drinking water regulation by Fall of 2022, and highlighted the need to ensure that any policy put forward needs to be properly evaluated to ensure it is scientifically sound. ASCE will continue to monitor developments in the effort to regulate PFAS and will be closely following activity related to EPA’s proposed actions. This will be of particular importance to measuring the safety of the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, which ASCE graded at a C- and D+ respectively on its [2021 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Regulating%20PFAS%3A%20EPA%20Announces%20%E2%80%9CRoadmap%E2%80%9D%20to%20Address%20Forever%20Chemicals&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Select Committee on the Climate Crisis Holds Hearing On Grid Resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/select-committee-on-the-climate-crisis-holds-hearing-on-grid-resilience/) **Published:** February 17, 2022 **Author:** Matthew McGinn **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Select%20Committee%20on%20the%20Climate%20Crisis%20Holds%20Hearing%20On%20Grid%20Resilience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, February 15 the House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis held a [hearing](https://climatecrisis.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/keeping-lights-on-strategies-grid-resilience-and-reliability) entitled “Keeping the Lights On: Strategies for Grid Resilience and Reliability”. The focus of this hearing was investments and policies in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to improve grid resilience, and to discuss future investments and policy needs. While there was much discussion about the importance of resilience and grid modernization, the discussion also highlighted deep policy disagreements between Democrats and Republicans on the committee. The [IIJA made a historic investment](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/11/08/fact-sheet-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-boosts-clean-energy-jobs-strengthens-resilience-and-advances-environmental-justice/) in grid modernization and grid resilience. $73 billion is provided by the law to rebuild the nation’s electric grid, which includes the rebuilding of thousands of miles of new power lines and expansion of renewable energy use and technology. This includes an investment of $5 billion for a nationwide grid reliability program to support projects, technologies, and grid hardening measures to mitigate the impact of disruptions. It also includes $5 billion for a new Program Upgrading Our Electric Grid and Ensuring Reliability and Resiliency to demonstrate innovative approaches to energy distribution, grid hardening, and enhancements to resilience. IIJA also provides $1 billion for rural grid modernization and resilience, and calls for the establishment of an inter-agency framework to assess energy infrastructure resilience. To implement these investments, the Department of Energy announced the launch of the [“Building a Better Grid Initiative”](https://www.energy.gov/articles/doe-launches-new-initiative-president-bidens-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-modernize) to work with communities to determine transmission needs, facilitate permitting processes, and utilize more than $20 billion in funding, including more than $15 billion in IIJA funds to facilitate the construction of new transmission lines and expand Smart Grid technology. Hearing witnesses included [Nancy Sutley](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220215/114399/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-SutleyN-20220215.pdf) of the Lost Angeles Department of Water & Power who emphasized that a reliable and resilient electric grid is essential to address challenges to her city, including wildfires, extreme heat, and severe drought. She noted these challenges place increased pressure on grid infrastructure and affect reliability. [Dr. Karen Wayland](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220215/114399/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-WaylandK-20220215.pdf) with GridWise Alliance highlighted that all 50 states face resilience challenges, with each requiring different risk management solutions and practices. [Katherine Hamilton](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220215/114399/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-HamiltonK-20220215.pdf) with 38 North Solutions noted that the nation’s electric grid was designed for reliability, but was becoming less and less reliable due to climate change. She also emphasized that resilience and reliability are inextricably linked, and policies to strengthen grid infrastructure must consider them both together. Finally, [Mark Mills](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/CN/CN00/20220215/114399/HHRG-117-CN00-Wstate-MillsM-20220215.pdf) with the Manhattan Institute, as well as Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering and Applied Science discussed the degradation of grid reliability in recent decades, and noted that challenges in implementing renewable technologies such as battery storage, intermittent sun and wind, and the material intensive nature of batteries and energy storage which leads to increased reliance on foreign minerals. In her opening remarks, Select Committee Chair Kathy Castor (D-FL) noted the benefits of a strong, resilient electric grid. These benefits include driving down the overall cost of disasters, avoidance of service disruptions, and ability for businesses to more quickly resume operations following disaster or disruption. Ranking Member Garret Graves (R-LA) also highlighted the need for significantly increasing investment in the grid to better meet demand. However, he was also critical of what he viewed as an over reliance on renewable energy technologies in power distribution. Graves noted that shortfalls in distribution in some regions of the country have led to importing of fossil fuels such as liquified natural gas from Russia in order to meet demand. Differences on policy and focus between committee leadership were further displayed in Member questions. Democratic questions focused on a variety of issues such as implementation of resilience strategies, demand response, and the impacts of climate change. Republicans on the committee focused much of their questioning on utilizing a wide variety of energy sources, including renewables, nuclear and fossil fuel. Many Republicans on the committee focused their questions on the potential overreliance on renewables, emphasizing the challenges utilization of renewables face such as energy storage and distribution, and reliance on minerals from countries like China to maintain renewable components. ASCE strongly supports an energy policy which utilizes numerous sources of power generation, focuses on resilience and reliability, and improvements to transmission, generation, and distribution infrastructure. [ASCE Policy Statement (PS) 484](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/policy-statements/ps484---electricity-generation-and-transmission-infrastructure) entitled “Electricity Generation and Transmission Infrastructure” emphasizes the importance of considering a “changing mix of energy sources- such as renewables- and distributed generation, to provide clear direction for meeting current and future demands.” PS 484 also supports the development of a national storm hardening plan to strengthen energy systems and enable quick restoration of service after disruptions, encourages the implementation of ASCE Standards, Manuals of Practice and other accepted engineering standards in transmission infrastructure, and the development of clean and renewable power generation and improvements to other transmission infrastructure. 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are laying the groundwork for another top legislative priority — a long-sought after boost to the nation’s roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. With COVID-19 relief done Congress has begun a series of hearings on sustainable and resilient infrastructure, a move in line with the priorities that President Biden outlined in a series of Executive Orders earlier this year, as well as one of the key solutions of the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Just this week, both the House Transportation Committee and the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee held hearings to explore policy solutions that will not only combat climate change, but can ensure that as a nation we are truly “building back better.” These hearing represent the beginning of Congress’ development of a major infrastructure bill that is anticipated to focus on both the importance of resilience and the impact of climate change on infrastructure now and in the future. To start the week, the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee [explored](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/the-business-case-for-climate-solutions) the private sector response to climate change, with a discussion centered on solutions for the surface transportation sector. Industry stakeholders, such as CEO of AECOM, [Mr. Troy Rudd](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Rudd%20Testimony.pdf), took the opportunity to discuss opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and electrification projects. In his opening statement, Committee [Chair Peter DeFazio](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/chair-defazio-statement-from-full-committee-hearing-on-the-business-case-for-climate-solutions) (D-OR) noted that “we will need commitment at all levels of government, and from the private sector, to achieve significant reductions in carbon pollution in the transportation sector, to transition to large-scale decarbonization, and to invest in the infrastructure upgrades to make our assets and facilities resilient to extreme weather events.” ASCE member and WSP’s National Business Line Executive for Climate, Resilience, and Sustainability, [Tom Lewis](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Lewis%20Testimony.pdf), took the opportunity to discuss the need to build our infrastructure to deliver not just cost benefits, but sustainability benefits, environmental stewardship, and resilience. The following day, The House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management continued to conversation with a hearing focused on [Building Smarter: The Benefits of Investing in Resilience and Mitigation](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/building-smarter-the-benefits-of-investing-in-resilience-and-mitigation). The hearing provided an opportunity for subcommittee members to engage in a dialogue on mitigation and resilience tools, and hear from representatives from the insurance sector, emergency management, and the home builders on risk management and building code adoption. Among those testifying at the hearing was [Ben Harper](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/Harper%20Testimony.pdf), A.M.ASCE, Head of Corporate Sustainability at Zurich North America, who highlighted the ASCE Report Card and as to the critical importance of investing in resiliency and mitigation as we transition to a new, low-carbon society and seek to reduce losses from disasters. In a statement to the Subcommittee, [ASCE](https://www.asce.org/letters-comments-statements/) urges Congress to make infrastructure vulnerability a major component of infrastructure initiatives and investments going forward. Finally, this week the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee listened to key transportation stakeholders on the needs of alternative vehicles and [reducing greenhouse gas emissions](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-488---greenhouse-gases/). Lawmakers heard about ways to strengthen [research and development](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-497---surface-transportation-research-funding/) in innovative transportation technologies including electrical grid integration to support electric vehicles. In ASCE’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card our nation’s energy infrastructure received the [grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy/) of a “C-.” As the nation becomes increasingly reliant on uninterrupted electricity, we urge lawmakers to adopt a federal energy policy that provides clear direction for meeting current and future demands. Therefore, as Congress get to work, ASCE wants to ensure that these conversations result in real policy solutions, such as the recently enacted Resilience Revolving Loan Fund, and are included in a comprehensive infrastructure bill. ASCE believes that the foundational step for any infrastructure bill lies in not just building more sustainably and improving resilience, but to assess the nation’s existing infrastructure needs and conditions. That is why the nation’s engineers are approaching projects and engineering in a new way, focusing efforts on the overall needs and benefits that a project aims to address. We hope that Congress can come together to develop legislation that keeps these principles of sustainability and resilience in mind and addresses the vulnerabilities that our infrastructure faces from natural and man-made disasters. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Resilience%20Takes%20Center%20Stage%20in%20Congress&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category --- ### [Senate Commerce Passes Bipartisan Surface Transportation Reauthorization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-commerce-passes-bipartisan-surface-transportation-reauthorization/) **Published:** June 17, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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and Transportation Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-MS) introduced [S. 2016, the Surface Transportation Investment Act (STIA)](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/ACEB4B07-B232-4176-BDE8-8CC5C9531639). STIA is a five-year, $78 billion authorization of many key agencies at the Department of Transportation (DOT) including the Office of the Secretary (OST), [Federal Railroad Administration](https://railroads.dot.gov/) (FRA), [Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration](https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/) (FMCSA), and the [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) (NHTSA). Leading into Wednesday’s markup roughly 250 amendments were proposed and approved en bloc with bipartisan support. Vote on final passage was largely bipartisan (25-3) with Sens. Cruz, Lee, and Rick Scott voting against the legislation. Beyond topline investments, STIA provides: - **$36.1 billion ($10.3 billion under FAST Act) for the FRA and Amtrak** - $6.5 billion ($2.5 billion under FAST Act) for Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor (NEC) and $12.6 billion ($5.4 billion under FAST Act) for the National Network (NN); - $137.5 million ($105 million under FAST Act) for Amtrak’s Inspector General; - $7.5 billion ($997 million under FAST Act) for Federal-State Partnership grants; - $250 million ($100 million under FAST Act) for Restoration and Enhancement Grants; and - $5 billion ($1.1 billion under FAST Act) for the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program. - **$4.4 billion ($3.2 billion under FAST Act) for the FMCSA** - **$7.8 billion ($3.7 billion under FAST Act) for the NHTSA** Outside of the specific agencies, STIA provides $28 billion for multimodal and freight investments. This includes $6.5 billion ($4.5 billion under FAST Act) for the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects grant program ([INFRA](https://www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/financing/infra-grants/infrastructure-rebuilding-america)); $7.5 billion over 5 years is provided for the [RAISE/BUILD program](https://www.transportation.gov/RAISEgrants/about); and authorizes a new office of Multimodal Freight Infrastructure and Policy, updates the [National Freight Strategic Plan](https://www.transportation.gov/freight/NFSP), and improves coordination between the federal and state governments on freight planning. ASCE supports many of the provisions included in the legislation and Executive Director Tom Smith [stated](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-0615-asce-letter-support-commerce-surface-bill.pdf), *“We applaud your efforts and offer our support for S. 2016, Surface Transportation Investment Act (STIA). Your five-year, $78 billion authorization addresses the growing challenges facing human safety and our multimodal surface transportation network by providing a vital increase in funding levels to address project backlogs, provide much-needed program stability, and give added attention to freight corridors.”* In ASCE’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, our nation’s roads, rail, and ports received the grades of “D,” “B,” and “B-,” respectively. These grades reflect that 40-percent of our roadway system is currently in poor or mediocre condition; over 36,000 people are dying per year on the nation’s roadways; over 6,000 pedestrians in 2019 were killed, marking a 60-percent increase of pedestrian fatalities from 10 years prior and the highest number since 1988; and only 9-percent of intermodal connector pavement are in good or very good condition. Despite the strong grade provided for our rail infrastructure, passenger investment has not kept pace with investments made by freight rail. In late May, the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee introduced, marked up, and unanimously passed the [Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act (STRA) of 2021](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-epw-introduces-bipartisan-surface-transportation-bill/?). STRA is a five-year, $303.5 billion reauthorization of core federal highway and bridge programs and represents a 22-percent increase from current FAST Act funding levels. Meanwhile, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Democrats passed the [INVEST in America Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-and-infrastructure-committee-passes-surface-transportation-reauthorization/), a $547 billion surface transportation authorization that will head to the floor the week on June 28th. The Senate Banking and Finance Committees as well as the House Ways and Means Committee have yet to release their transit and revenue titles. As Congress continues its work to reauthorize our surface transportation programs before September 30th, ASCE urges lawmakers to come together to address our surface transportation challenges and provide world class infrastructure fit for the 21st century. To read more, click [here](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-surface-transportation-reauthorization-act-2021.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Passes%20Bipartisan%20Surface%20Transportation%20Reauthorization&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Ports, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Senate Committee Examines Transit and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-committee-examines-transit-and-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law/) **Published:** March 16, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Committee%20Examines%20Transit%20and%20the%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Public transportation’s advancement through the [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3684/text) (IIJA) was the focus of a [hearing](https://www.banking.senate.gov/hearings/advancing-public-transportation-under-the-bipartisan-infrastructure-law) held by the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs on March 15th. Enacted in November, the bipartisan infrastructure law contains a whopping $91 billion for transit, including spending for development planning, State of Good Repair Grants, and low-emission vehicles. This investment represents a historic opportunity to improve the nation’s public transportation networks and reduce the $176 billion transit backlog, which is expected to grow to more than $270 billion through 2029. ASCE submitted a Statement for the Record to the Senate Banking Committee, suggesting key actions such as incentivizing asset management and life-cycle cost analysis in new competitive grant programs and encouraging the implementation of new technologies into our nation’s transit systems. The statement also noted the critical need for workforce development programs and securing long-term funding for infrastructure. Workforce-related needs were one of the major topics raised by witnesses at the hearing. Joanna Pinkerton, president of the Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA), mentioned the workforce shortage impacting the transit sector, noting that COTA has had to make service cuts due to staffing challenges. Greg Regan, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, praised the law’s measures to improve transit agency safety and reduce assaults on transportation workers. Pinkerton, a licensed professional engineer, said the IIJA has the potential to improve the condition of transit agencies and roads, noting shared vehicle environments can make systems safer and more efficient. Both Pinkerton and Collie Greenwood, interim general manager of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), commended the law’s adjustment pertaining to Small Starts projects, which operate under the [Capital Investment Grants Program](https://www.transit.dot.gov/CIG). Specifically, the IIJA raised the threshold for Small Starts project costs from $300 million to $400 million. Greenwood mentioned MARTA’s Clayton Southlake Bus Rapid Transit project has advanced to the development phase of the Small Starts program, while Pinkerton said central Ohio’s LinkUs mobility initiative will benefit from this adjustment. The Biden administration has been active in awarding grant money—and making funding available—to support community transit projects. On March 14, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded $409 million to 70 projects in 39 states through the [Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program](https://www.transit.dot.gov/bus-program). The Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 project selections include efforts to modernize buses, make bus systems and routes more reliable, and improve safety. In Central California, the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority was awarded about $8.8 million to replace older diesel buses with zero-emission electric ones. Some $15 million was granted to MARTA to build a new bus and operations maintenance facility in Clayton County, while the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority received $5 million to replace its system’s oldest bus facility. The number of applicants during this round of funding demonstrated an overwhelming interest in improving transit systems around the country. According to FTA, the agency received 303 eligible project proposals totaling approximately $2.56 billion in requested funds. Because of the infrastructure law, FTA will be able to support more projects in the next round of awards. One week prior to announcing the $409 million in grant awards, a group of administration officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and FTA Administrator Nuria Fernandez announced the availability of $1.47 billion in grant funding to help modernize bus fleets and facilities. The [funding opportunity](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2022-3-11-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=64574&elqTrackId=698DC3FE6B3C52001D8BA68722873832&elq=f2226eec1c644bee8d5e7d244ac6d02c&elqaid=28193&elqat=1) makes available $1.1 billion in competitive grants under the FY 2022 Low or No Emission Grant Program and $372 million in FY 2022 funds under the Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program. The combined grant program announcement was the first FTA-related competitive grant opportunity under bipartisan infrastructure law. The deadline to submit proposals is May 31st. Transit has received a D- grade on the two latest iterations of ASCE’s [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/)*,* the most recent of which was released in March 2021. The investment included in the IIJA can play a major role creating a positive trend and finally raising the grade for transit. 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Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE), Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Ranking Member Kevin Cramer (R-ND) introduced the [Surface Transportation Reauthorization Act (STRA) of 2021](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/c/8/c8655fed-8f7c-457b-a010-3e028bc49b63/6636AFC54CEFBECD631118AED3415CB1.stra-final-bill-text-5-21.pdf). This legislation takes the first step in reauthorizing highway and bridge programs currently set to expire under the [Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/) on September 30, 2021. Rail, safety, transit, and fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) are the jurisdiction of the Senate Commerce, Banking, and Finance Committees, and will be added to the STRA at a later date. STRA is a five-year, $303.5 billion reauthorization of core federal highway and bridge programs and represents a 22-percent increase from current FAST Act funding levels. $273.2 billion, or 90-percent, of total highway funding from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is distributed to [states](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/7/6/76a75cd2-8e70-42c4-8142-82ffef83c867/29CF2A3E5A597BF34CD020F96F197F4A.ta-est-fy-2022-2026-apportionments-epw-reauth-act-2021-rev-1.pdf) by formula. Topline funding includes $148 billion for the [National Highway Performance Program (NHPP)](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/factsheets/nhppfs.cfm), $64.8 billion for the [Surface Transportation Block Grant Program (STBG)](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/specialfunding/stp/), and $13.2 billion for the [Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program (CMAQ)](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/air_quality/cmaq/). Beyond these funding levels STRA includes provisions that accelerate project delivery, invest in resilience, address climate change, and improve road safety. Specifically, this legislation: ## **Accelerate Project Delivery** - Codifies ‘One Federal Decision’. The Department of Transportation (DOT) is required to complete environmental reviews in two years. Documentation is limited to 200 pages unless a review has wide scope and is highly complex. - Eliminates existing requirements for states repaying Federal-aid reimbursements for preliminary engineering costs on a project that has not advanced to right-of-way acquisition or construction within 10 years. - Updates the [Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act](https://www.transportation.gov/buildamerica/financing/tifia/map) (TIFIA) program to increase program use, streamline the application process, and increase transparency. ## **Invest in Resilience and Address Climate Change** - Appoints 10 regional Centers of Excellence for Resilience and Adaptation and 1 national Center of Excellence for Resilience and Adaptation. These centers will support research that improves resilience on surface transportation infrastructure. Grants will be awarded at $ 5 million or above for each fiscal year through 2031. - Creates the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient, and Cost-saving Transportation (PROTECT) grant program, which helps states improve the resiliency of transportation infrastructure. $7.2 billion is provided over a 5-year period. - Institutes a congestion relief program to provide competitive grants to states and local governments to advance solutions to congestion relief in highly congested areas. Minimum grant award size is $10 million, and the bill provides $250 million over five years. - DOT is required to revise the Federal Highway Administration’s Emergency Relief program to include a definition or resilience, encourage complete street design principles, and develop best practices for improving the use of resilience. - Establishes the Carbon Reduction Incentive Program to encourage reduced carbon emissions. Grants would be made available to state or local governments that demonstrate reduction in transportation emissions. The program will receive $6.4 billion over 5 years. - Creates the Healthy Streets program which provides funding to deploy cool and porous pavements and expand tree cover to mitigate urban heat islands, improve air quality, and reduce flood risks. $500 million is provided over five years. ## **Improve Road Safety** - A new competitive grant program to address the backlog of bridges in poor condition nationwide. $3.2 billion is authorized for the program. - Establishes a wildlife crossing pilot program to provide grants for projects designed to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and improve habitat connectivity. $350 million is provided over five years. - Requires DOT to implement recommendations from a Government Accountability Office (GAO) Report entitled “[Highway Safety: More Robust DOT Oversight of Guardrails and Other Roadside Hardware Could Further Enhance Safety](https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-16-575)” published in June 2016. - DOT is directed to update the [Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices](https://mutcd.fhwa.dot.gov/), and to continue to update the manual no less than every four years. - Established a grant program to provide state DOTs and local government assistant with installing projects designed to prevent pedestrian injuries. The program is authorized at $ 5 million from 2022 to 2026. ## **Address Future Needs** - Authorizes a study to provide the best available estimate of the total amount of fuel taxes paid by users of non-highway recreational vehicles into the HTF. Reauthorizes and renames the Surface Transportation System Funding Alternatives Program in order to test the feasibility of a road usage fee and other user-based alternative revenue mechanisms to support HTF solvency. - Requires DOT and the Department of the Treasury to establish a pilot program to demonstrate a national motor vehicle per-mile user fee. - Develops a pilot program to study access to transportation access to improve future planning of the surface transportation network. During Wednesday’s markup, EPW passed the legislation, [20-0](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=F276D918-ACE0-4378-A4BE-1E1DF377FC0D). Senate Commerce and Banking Committees will now need to begin their portions of a surface transportation reauthorization. ASCE [joined](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-tcc-support-letter-surface-transportation-reauthorization-act.pdf) our[ industry partners](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-statement-tcc-atm-surface-transportation-reauthorization-act.pdf) before the markup in supporting this first important step in reauthorizing our federal surface programs. In ASCE’s 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, our nation’s roads and bridges received a “D” and “C.” We [applaud](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-support-letter-epw-surface-bill.pdf) the efforts of Chairman Carper, Ranking Member Capito, and Senators Cardin and Cramer in developing comprehensive bill that will help address the needs of our ever-changing surface transportation system. We strongly urge the Senate Commerce and Banking Committees to act quickly to address the challenges facing rail networks, transportation safety, and transit systems before the Senate Finance Committee debates a pay-for solution and the full Senate can vote on a comprehensive package. Read detailed issue memo [here](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-2-surface-transportation-reauthorization-act.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20EPW%20Introduces%20Bipartisan%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Senate Expected to Pass Historic Infrastructure Bill Over the Weekend](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-expected-to-pass-historic-infrastructure-bill-over-the-weekend/) **Published:** August 6, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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pass legislation representing a historic investment in the nation’s infrastructure as early as Saturday.** On Thursday afternoon, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) moved to end debate on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), a $1.2 trillion investment in our nation’s road and bridges, water systems, ports and inland waterways, electric grid, dams and levees, schools, airports, rail network, transit systems, and broadband. While the Senate was unable to reach an agreement on the remaining amendments to vote on cloture, and therefore end debate, Senators are expected to return on Saturday to vote to overcome the filibuster. Once that vote occurs, a vote on final package could occur shortly afterward. Currently, 18 Republican Senators, including Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) have indicated support for the bill by voting in favor of other key procedural votes during the process. So far, no amendments to significantly change the IIJA have been adopted during debate, which was expected after negotiators from both sides of aisle asserted that they would block any amendments that threatened the delicately negotiated package. It should also be noted that on Thursday, the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) score of the bill was finally released, which was a key factor in completing debate on the IIJA. CBO estimates that the IIJA would add $256 billion to the deficit over 10 years. The IIJA represents $550 billion in new funding for the nation’s critical infrastructure and would make a significant impact on improving almost all of the categories featured in ASCE’s *2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, which assigned the nation’s systems a disappointing grade of ‘C-.’ ASCE’s full analysis of the legislation can be [found here](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-senate-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-02.pdf). ASCE strongly supports the IIJA and applauds all ASCE members who have contacted your Senators, submitted letters to the editor, and advocated on behalf of the legislation. The voice of the nation’s engineers has been vital to getting the IIJA to the precipice of passage in the Senate. [If you have not already done so, take a few minutes to contact your Senators and urge them to vote YES on the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.](https://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=511420) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Expected%20to%20Pass%20Historic%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Over%20the%20Weekend&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Expected%20to%20Pass%20Historic%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Over%20the%20Weekend "Share on 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piece of legislation to expand funding for science and innovation and to combat China on economic, scientific, and diplomatic fronts. The bill, containing more than 1,400 pages, authorizes $250 billion for basic and advanced technology research, as well as measures to confront foreign competitors, over the next five years. [President Biden](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/06/08/statement-of-president-joe-biden-on-senate-passage-of-the-u-s-innovation-and-competition-act/) has endorsed the bill. The bill incorporates the ASCE supported [Endless Frontier Act](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/services/files/4C1A79AE-2392-4C62-B38D-265489E46369) which would significantly expand funding of the National Science Foundation (NSF). Under the measure, NSF would be authorized to spend $81 billion from Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 to 2026. This would include $29 billion for the new Directorate for Technology and Innovation and $52 billion for other directorates and offices at NSF. NSF’s entire FY21 budget is $8.5 billion. This funding level would represent a seven percent increase for existing programs each year. The legislation would also create a Chief Diversity Officer at NSF and increase STEM education to enhance the domestic STEM workforce. The legislation also incorporates a series of new programs, including precision agriculture, rural STEM education, quantum information science, skilled technical education, critical minerals, and bioeconomy R&D. The new directorate would direct basic and applied research, advanced technology development, and commercialization support in the key technology focus areas. In fact, it would be limited to research in ten delineated, if broad, research areas: high-performance computing, quantum computing, disaster mitigation, biotechnology, energy technology, semiconductors, robotics and automation, advanced communication (such as 5G), cybersecurity, and other areas deemed necessary to support the nine. Beyond NSF, the measure would: - Authorize $10 billion for university technology centers and innovation institutes to conduct research on the key focus areas. - Authorize nearly $17 billion for the Energy Department for research and development for energy-related supply chain activities. - Authorize $10 billion over five years for the Department of Commerce to create regional tech hub programs. A third of the hubs would have to be in rural areas. - Authorize $1.5 billion to help spur innovation in advanced wireless technologies. - Require that the iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in federally funded infrastructure projects be produced in the United States. - Direct the President to use the full range authority to impose sanctions against people or entities that have stolen US trade secrets or benefited from such theft, as well as sanctions against foreign entities or people that have supported or engaged in cyberattacks or otherwise undermined US cybersecurity. The bill also contains a rare appropriation within an authorization bill, that would if enacted as currently written, provide money for the following: - $49.5 billion allocated over 5 years for a CHIPS for America Fund. Funding must be used to implement the Commerce Department semiconductor incentive and R&D programs. Within the fund, the following appropriations are available: - Incentive Program: $39 billion appropriated upfront and allocated over 5 years to implement the programs. $2 billion is provided to solely focus on legacy chip production to advance the economic and national security interests of the United States. - $19 billion in FY22, including the $2 billion legacy chip production funding. - $5 billion each year, FY23 through FY26 - Commerce R&D programs: $10.5 billion appropriated upfront and allocated over 5 years to implement programs, including the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC), National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program, and other R&D programs. - $5 billion in FY22 - $2.5 billion for advanced packaging - $2 billion for NSTC - $500 million for other related R&D programs Passage of the bill in the Senate is only the beginning. The House must now weigh in with their own plan for how to restructure America’s science and technology ecosystem. That vision currently revolves around two bills with broad bipartisan support, the [National Science Foundation for the Future Act](https://science.house.gov/news/press-releases/science-committee-leaders-introduce-nsf-for-the-future-act) and the [Department of Energy Science for the Future Act](https://science.house.gov/imo/media/doc/DOE%20Science%20for%20the%20Future%20Act%20-%20Johnson-Lucas-Bowman-Weber.pdf). Both are slated for a full committee markup next week. The measure differs significantly from the Senate bill. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Passes%20Massive%20Technology%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, Uncategorized --- ### [Senate Passes Historic Infrastructure Package](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-passes-historic-infrastructure-package/) **Published:** August 11, 2021 **Author:** Caroline Sevier **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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trillion Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The bipartisan bill passed by a vote of [69 – 30](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=117&session=1&vote=00314), with 19 Republicans joining Democrats. The legislation marks the largest U.S. infrastructure investment in generations; $550 billion in new spending over the next five years for the nation’s roads, bridges, rail, airports, clean water, public transit, and school facilities – all infrastructure sectors that ASCE has been advocating for over the last three decades with its *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. Shortly after passage, ASCE [publicly applauded](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=41962) the Senate for not only passing the IIJA, but for proving once again that the strength and reliability of our nation’s infrastructure systems is an issue that unites us all. Senate passage is a noteworthy step toward the realization of the kind of legislation that ASCE members have championed for decades. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives, where the timeline for consideration remains unclear. However, after the bill passed, Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Peter DeFazio (D-OR), announced that he would no longer try to conference the House’s [INVEST in America Act](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-invest-america-act-final-2.pdf) with the Senate bill but will instead focus any changes on the reconciliation bill. This a strong signal that the House will not try to change the Senate bill but instead take up the bipartisan Senate bill as currently written, with little to no room for amendments. **ASCE strongly encourages the House to take up the IIJA as soon as the week of August 23rd**, when the House will be in session to pass a budget resolution. A variety of funding mechanisms within the IIJA, including over $300 billion in surface transportation revenue from the FAST Act, will expire in the fall and must be reauthorized quickly to ensure state and local governments do not lose access to federal resources for any stretch of time. For further details about what made it in the final Senate bill, please check out [ASCE’s memo](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/2021-asce-memo-senate-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal-02.pdf) on the IIJA. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=South%20Carolina%20Civil%20Engineers%20Give%20the%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, September 8, the South Carolina Section of ASCE unveiled the [2021 Report Card for South Carolina’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/south-carolina/), the first report card ever issues by the South Carolina Section. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “D+” which is below the national grade of “C-.” The report analyzed eight categories of infrastructure pertinent to South Carolina: aviation (D+), bridges (C), dams (D), drinking water (D+), ports (B), roads (D), transit (D+) and wastewater (D). The grades were unveiled at the S.C. State House in front of a live audience which included members of the press. ASCE South Carolina Section President Jonathan Thrasher, Past-President Jonathan Ard, and President-Elect Ryan Harvey presented the findings. ![Man in a suit speaks at a wooden podium during an ASCE South Carolina event, flanked by blue ASCE banners in a columned hall.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ASCE-Group-Pic-1-banners-400x300.jpg "ASCE Group Pic 1 banners")From left to right Jonathan Ard Jonathan Thrasher Ryan HarveyThe state’s dams, drinking water and wastewater systems have undergone significant upgrades in recent years, with projects being completed or developed so rapidly that the publicly available data has not yet caught up to reflect the level of expansion and modernization each system has undergone. Despite these improvements, each water infrastructure sector faces significant challenges from severe storms and decades of underinvestment, along with increased demand stemming from a booming population. The report found that South Carolina’s transportation network is struggling. The state’s roads (D) and bridges (C) face an estimated funding gap of $43 billion by 2040, and more than 50% of roads are in poor condition. The state’s roads also have the highest fatality rate in the U.S. at 1.72 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Nearly 11% of South Carolina bridges are structurally deficient – more than the 7.5% national average – and more bridges are rated in fair (47%) than good (45%) condition. However, the state has taken strides towards addressing these issues, raising its gas tax by 12 cents per gallon over six years starting in 2017 to generate more than $625 million in new annual revenue; the state also adopted the Target Zero vision for reducing fatalities. SCDOT’s 10-year Targeted Asset Management to realize life-cycle management goals for highway assets is in its 4th year and is ahead of schedule for bridge replacements. The star of the report card is the ports (B) category, with the highest grade of all eight sectors. S.C. Ports is a top-10 container port in the United States, responsible for 1-in-10 South Carolina jobs and generating more than $63 billion in economic output for the state. As the Southeastern economy continues to grow exponentially, S.C. Ports has seen cargo volumes double in the past 10 years. Ocean carriers are deploying larger vessels to keep up with demand, which requires deeper harbors and increased port capacity. The South Carolina Ports Authority, the state of South Carolina, federal government and industry partners are continuously investing in the port facilities with $2.6 billion invested through fiscal year 2022. The $2.6 billion investment will double container capacity upon final buildout of the new High K. Leatherman Sr. Terminal in Charleston and deepen the harbor to 52 feet so that mega container ships may access terminals any time, regardless of tides. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, such as: - The federal government should fully fund authorized infrastructure programs to invest in South Carolina’s aging infrastructure to support the growing population. - Design, operate, maintain and expand infrastructure using consensus-based codes and standards, focusing on resilience and life cycle cost as the best measures of infrastructure performance and best use of taxpayer dollars. - Establish funding and grants to assist programs that enhance the quality of public service in areas such as drinking water, wastewater, regional transit, and aviation. These programs would consist of utility consolidation, resilience improvements, capacity related infrastructure upgrades, and technical career training that retains South Carolina’s talent.![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/ASCE-Group-Pic-2-banners-400x300.jpg "ASCE Group Pic 2 banners") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Nears%20Completion%20of%20Major%20Infrastructure%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F10%2FUtah.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Nears%20Completion%20of%20Major%20Infrastructure%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Nears%20Completion%20of%20Major%20Infrastructure%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In March, President Biden introduced the American Jobs Plan, a $2.3 trillion proposal geared to restore and upgrade the nation’s infrastructure. The introduction of the American Jobs Plan kicked off months of negotiations between the White House and key Senators from both sides of the aisle to develop an infrastructure package that could pass the nearly evenly divided Senate. The result of those negotiations is a bipartisan infrastructure proposal that was developed by 22 Senators, nearly evenly split between the two parties, and would represent a significant achievement of the Biden Administration. Last week, Senate negotiators announced that had agreed upon legislative text, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which allowed the Senate to vote on a motion to proceed and open debate on the package. The motion to proceed passed with 67 votes, with 17 Republicans joining Democrats to move the bill forward, a strong indicator of support as the bill is debated on the Senate floor. The final bill text, totaling 2,702 pages, includes significant new funding for the nation’s infrastructure, as well as priorities like the Senate’s five-year surface transportation reauthorization, language to address climate change, the codification of parts of a Trump-era policy on environmental reviews, the creation of programs that address resilience, and appropriate $445.9 billion in emergency funds. The bill is being considered as a substitute amendment to the House-passed surface transportation bill (H.R. 3684) and is open to further amendments from Senators. However, few amendments are expected to be added to the heavily negotiated package. The bipartisan IIJA totals $1.2 trillion and represents $550 billion in new infrastructure spending over the next five years. | **New Proposed Infrastructure Funding** | **ASCE Report Card Category** | |---|---| | $110 billion for Roads, Bridges, Major Projects | Bridges, Roads | | $11 billion for Pipeline Modernization, Trucking Safety, and Traffic Safety | Energy, Roads | | $39 billion for Public Transit | Transit | | $66 billion for Passenger and Freight Rail | Rail, Transit | | $7.5 billion for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure | Roads, Energy | | $7.5 billion for Low Carbon and Electric Buses and Ferries | Transit, Ports | | $17 billion for Port Infrastructure | Ports, Inland Waterways | | $25 billion for Airport Maintenance and Resilience | Aviation | | $50 billion for Cyber Resiliency, Wildfire Management, Flood Mitigation, Coastal Resilience, Weatherization, and Ecosystem Restoration | Broadband, Dams, Energy, Levees, Stormwater | | $55 billion for Water Infrastructure | Drinking Water, Stormwater, Wastewater | | $65 billion to Bridge the Digital Divide | Broadband | | $21 billion in Environmental Remediation | Hazardous Waste | | $73 billion for the Nation’s Power Infrastructure | Energy | ASCE expects the Senate to hold a cloture vote on the bill this Wednesday, teeing up a final vote as early as this Thursday. Please [contact your Senator](https://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=511420) and urge them to vote YES on the final Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. **For a full analysis of the IIJA please check out our[ issue memo](https://www.dropbox.com/s/8a698jgnr4952tk/Senate%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Deal%20%28IIJA%29%20Memo_FINAL.pdf?dl=0).** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Tactics for Infrastructure Improvement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/strategic-investment-tactics-for-infrastructure-improvement/) **Published:** April 27, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Strategic%20Investment%20Tactics%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F04%2FUS-Cap.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Strategic%20Investment%20Tactics%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Strategic%20Investment%20Tactics%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*Guest Post by Maria Lehman, National Infrastructure Lead, U.S. at GHD* ASCE’s government relations program is about making a societal difference. Through advocacy and relevant reporting, we capture the imagination of Mayors, Governors, Congress and even Presidents. Congress has indicated it’s serious about providing significant new funding for infrastructure and emphasized it’s a bipartisan issue. If we’re looking at doubling investment, how do we affect change and strategically utilize funding to ensure taxpayer dollars are used effectively? ## **Start with Strategic Planning** Ensure the investment goes towards infrastructure projects making the most impact. Through strategic planning, you’ll have evidence-based plans to ensure appropriate funding allocation. What are the steps involved in this process? [Risk Assessment](https://www.ghd.com/en-us/expertise/risk-management-advisory.aspx): review the potential risk associated with infrastructure changes and updates. When we push off risk, there is usually a higher cost waiting. Performance-based standards define the framework we should deliver to unleash innovation. [Asset Management](https://www.ghd.com/en-us/expertise/asset-management.aspx): evaluate the holistic aspect of your infrastructure projects and assets to ensure you are utilizing your resources efficiently. Replace, repurpose and rebuild as necessary. The management of assets is approaching a perfect storm of client, technological, regulatory, fiscal and market change. ## **Utilize New Technology** Our ability to adapt and change has been tested over the past year and continues to be tested over the coming changes in our economy and environment. Harnessing large amounts of data and utilizing new technology helps jump-start new projects at a low cost. What are some of these technical solutions? [Digital Twins](https://www.ghd.com/en/about-us/digital-twin.aspx): Ever wanted to see what impact a project would have on its surrounding environment before beginning the work? Digital twins are able to map out scenarios in a safe digital environment for infrastructure testing. Solve physical issues faster, predict outcomes and optimize performance. [Cybersecurity](https://www.ghd.com/en/about-us/critical-infrastructure-cybersecurity.aspx): In our digital-first world the amount of delicate information on our laptops is cause for significant worry and needs protection. To ensure projects/resources are protected, investing in cybersecurity measures is paramount. ## **Efficient Project Execution** Once you’ve done your due diligence with planning and utilizing digital tools the final step is ensuring efficient execution of the project. The following aspects of project execution have been identified as important indicators to successfully executing an infrastructure project. Planned and Approved: Regulatory issues and red tape can cause lagging and affect the momentum once funding is received. If possible, start with a backlog of already planned and approved projects as a low-cost solution to get progress started. Holistic Approach: Identify collaboration between different pieces of infrastructure – bridges, ports, roads – can create a positive domino effect within the ecosystem. [Trusted Advisor:](https://www.ghd.com/en-us/expertise/project-management.aspx) Working with a trusted and experienced partner to plan and carry out projects is essential to ensure delivery on time, on budget and with great results. Rather than follow the status quo a trusted partner rethinks how to deliver a solution and imagine what’s possible. For instance, at one of our projects in eastern Pennsylvania, we are rethinking the concept of waste from the wastewater treatment process. We’re taking a traditionally expensive problem –the waste stream from the wastewater treatment process — and creating a solution to generate energy and a revenue source. Not only does the new process create a high-value end product, but the entire process is also carbon negative. Another example of applying innovative solutions to community infrastructure challenges is managing water resources through integrated solutions. In southern California, communities face population growth coupled with drought leading to complex water management issues. Engineering solutions must address these complex challenges – which considering the full life cycle of technology and operations. This [California agency](https://www.ghd.com/en/projects/enhanced-recharge-project-secures-local-water-resources.aspx) is an example of how operational flexibility maximizes water supply and quality. Will you be ready to hit the ground running if Congress provides the new additional funding for America’s infrastructure? Successfully ensure proper utilization of investments for the best possible outcomes for improved infrastructure projects by approaching a project with strategic planning, utilizing digital technology and ensuring efficient execution. *Maria Lehman has more than 40 years of diverse, increasingly responsible, multi-disciplinary experience in transportation and facilities. She had held leadership positions in both the public and private sectors with expertise in economic development; quality assurance; highway, transportation, and facility planning, environmental assessment, design, management and construction monitoring; as well as emergency management, operations and maintenance. At GHD Maria is focused on Corporate Business Development related to the US Infrastructure Market, promoting growth and sustainable profitability. Her role includes direction, coordination and mentoring of the infrastructure business with the US while providing technical leadership on major pursuits.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Strategic%20Investment%20Tactics%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F04%2FUS-Cap.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Strategic%20Investment%20Tactics%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement "Share on 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launched the [Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/3v_hCXDk62unVZ6MF6_Td8?domain=treasury.gov) (CSLFRF) program. The program was first authorized under the [American Rescue Plan Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-passes-covid-19-relief-package/) (ARPA). CSLFRF provides $350 billion in emergency funding for eligible state, local, territorial, and tribal governments to help turn the tide on the pandemic, address economic fallout, and establish a foundation for recovery. [Guidance](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRP-Fact-Sheet-FINAL1-508A.pdf) has also been issued, providing clarity on a broad range of spending options eligible under the American Rescue Plan. Funds are intended to be utilized by state and local government to: - Support urgent COVID-19 response efforts to continue to decrease spread of the virus and bring the pandemic under control; - Replace lost revenue for eligible state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to strengthen support for vital public services and help retain jobs; - Support immediate economic stabilization for households and businesses; and - Address systemic public health and economic challenges that have contributed to the inequal impact of the pandemic. Under ARPA, states and the District of Columbia will receive $195 billion, counties will receive $65 billion, cities will receive $46 billion, and tribal governments will receive $20 billion. Allocations were determined by unemployment rates, with most receiving funds with two equal tranches. However, states that have seen their unemployment rates increase by 2% or more since February will receive funds in a single payment. These states include Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Washington, and Wyoming. Like states, local governments will also receive funding in two equal tranches, with the first payments beginning this month and the second half provided in a year. Specific allocations are included below: - [States](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/fiscalrecoveryfunds-statefunding1-508A.pdf) - [Territories](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/fiscalrecoveryfunds-territoriesfunding1-508A.pdf) - [Counties](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/fiscalrecoveryfunds_countyfunding_2021.05.10-1a-508A.pdf) - [Metro Areas](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/fiscalrecoveryfunds-metrocitiesfunding1-508A.pdf) Relief funds must be spent as part of a state government wide calculation on total lost revenue and not solely based individual revenue sources, like a gas or sales tax. **State and local governments may use funding to invest in water, sewer, broadband, and roadway infrastructure. Infrastructure investment eligibility is broad and can be used to make improvements to existing infrastructure, provide pay-go spending for building new infrastructure, as well as address the impacts of climate change.** CSLFRF can also be used to replace lost government tax or fee revenues; support public health needs, including COVID-19 mitigation efforts; alleviate COVID-19 related economic hardship for businesses, workers, and affected industries; provide aid to hard-hit communities; and provide hazard pay for essential workers which include critical infrastructure sectors who regularly perform in person work. CSLFRF cannot be used to fill loss on debt services, rainy day funds, or pensions. ASCE applauds Treasury’s efforts to provide much needed guidance on how ARPA state and local relief funds can be spent across our state and local governments. It is expected that further clarity will be provided in the near term, and additional resources are included below: - [Interim Rule (as of May 10, 2021)](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/FRF-Interim-Final-Rule.pdf) - [Fact Sheet](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRP-Fact-Sheet-FINAL1-508A.pdf) - [FAQs](https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/136/SLFRPFAQ.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure, State --- ### [United for Infrastructure 2021: A Week of Broad Agreement & Urgency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/united-for-infrastructure-2021-a-week-of-broad-agreement-urgency/) **Published:** May 13, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The week was full of in-depth panels, remarks, and interviews on the importance of infrastructure systems to the economic vitality of all communities. A focus on infrastructure from diverse stakeholders was especially timely as President Joe Biden continues to advocate for his American Jobs Plan that contains nearly $1 trillion to improve bridges, roads, drinking water systems, stormwater infrastructure, and much more. The week also comes on the heels of ASCE’s 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* [release](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release-event/) in March, and the document was mentioned by numerous panelists and keynote speakers throughout the week. President Biden himself joined the program on May 10 to discuss the benefits of his American Jobs Plan and the role his proposal would have in creating economic opportunity in the U.S. “Let’s get to work. Not only building back better, but building back together,” rallied the President, noting this is the second time he’s joined United for Infrastructure group, first in 2015 as Vice President. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/U4I-Screenshot-Biden-400x220.jpg "U4I Screenshot Biden")Biden was followed on the United for Infrastructure virtual stage later that afternoon by Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who stressed the unique role infrastructure can play in getting our economy back on track today while strengthening our competitiveness into the future. “If we get this right, everyone is going to be better off,” remarked the Secretary. Other events during the week featured in-depth remarks on the importance of permit reform, strengthening opportunities for disadvantaged communities to compete for grants and funding, the growing water investment gap and emerging technologies, just to name a few. ASCE’s Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives Emily Feenstra moderated a panel on scaling resilience success. Speakers included Tom Lewis, National Leader for Climate, Resilience, and Sustainability, WSP USA, Jennifer Aument, Global Transportation Chief Executive, AECOM, and Andrew Wishnia, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Climate Policy, USDOT. All panelists were optimistic that investments could made to help communities protect and withstand increasingly severe storms. United for Infrastructure, now in its 9th year, is a not-for-profit organization based in Washington, D.C. The coalition works to educate the American public and policymakers about the importance of infrastructure to the nation’s economy, workers, and communities. The organization was founded and is led by its Steering Committee – a bipartisan team that includes leading business groups, labor unions, and think tanks working to improve America’s infrastructure. ASCE is a steering committee member, alongside the AFL-CIO, the American Society of Civil Engineers, Building America’s Future, Business Roundtable, the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Manufacturers, and the Value of Water Campaign. There are a few remaining events, including a policy briefing hosted by ASCE next Tuesday, May 18 at 1:00 pm ET. “Stretching the Dollar: Asset Management as a Tool to Improve Resiliency” will feature state and local leaders who have turned to asset management as a tool to improve community resilience. Speakers will include Anita Seitz, Mayor of Westminster Colorado and Matt Vega, National Director of Infrastructure & Government with US CAD. The conversation will be moderated by Celine Hyer, PE, M. ASCE, Senior Vice President, ARCADIS. You can register and attend for free [here](https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YM4IYi2BRxCZG9mrwvXF2w). 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country elevating infrastructure as an issue impacting all Americans. The programming is especially timely as Congress debates how to move forward on investing in infrastructure to help the economy recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. ASCE is a steering committee member of United for Infrastructure and is dedicated to bringing quality programming as a part of the organization and in stand-alone events. Highlights of upcoming programming and registration links are below, while a full calendar is available [here.](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/calendar/) ## **Lead With Infrastructure: United for Infrastructure Kickoff** May 10, 2021 at 12:00 pm ET / 9:00 am PT Register [here](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/event/leadwithinfrastructure/) Speakers at this kickoff include Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Kristina Swallow, P.E., ENV SP, F.*ASCE*. 2018 President, Houston Mayor Turner, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumpka, Autodesk CEO Andrew Anagnost, and more. ## **ASCE’s Capitol Hill Policy Briefing, “Accelerating Sustainable, Resilient Infrastructure and How to Measure Success.”** May 10, 2021 at 3:00 pm ET / 12:00 am PT Register [here](https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fewoS50gTU6wcK37f0FwkQ) Learn how to “future proof” the infrastructure in your community by investing dollars wisely. Strategies include the incorporation of American Society of Civil Engineers(ASCE) 7, a series of design standards that reflect the latest data on the wind, ice, and tsunami, and flood impacts and how our infrastructure should be built to withstand and protect against these big events. Meanwhile, ASCE’s new Sustainability Standard informs planners about social, economic, and environmental guidelines, and the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure’s Envision rating system gauges a project’s achievement in meeting long-term sustainability goals. Speakers: • Tom Smith, ENV SP, CAE, F.ASCE, Executive Director, ASCE • Anthony Kane, President & CEO, Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure • Michael Mucha, P.E., ENV-SP, Chief Engineer and Director, • Samantha Medlock, Senior Counsel, House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis ## **Make It Resilient: Building and Updating Infrastructure for a Changing World** May 11, 2021 at 12:00 pm ET / 9:00 am PT Register and see the full list of speakers [here](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/event/make-it-resilient/) Program includes a panel moderated by Emily Feenstra, ASCE Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives, featuring Andrew Wishnia, USDOT Deputy Assistant Secretary for Climate Policy, Tom Lewis from WSP, and Jennifer Aumenti, Global Transportation Chief Executive, AECOM. ## **Make it for Everyone: Infrastructure and the Equity Opportunity** May 12, 2021 at 12:00 pm ET / 9:00 am PT Register and see the full list of speakers [here](https://unitedforinfrastructure.org/event/make-it-for-everyone/) Programming includes remarks from Dave Swallow, M. ASCE, Deputy CEO, Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada. ## **ASCE’s Capitol Hill Policy Briefing, “Stretching the Dollar: Asset Management as a Tool to Improve Resiliency.”** May 18, 2021 at 1:00 pm ET / 10:00 am PT Register [here](https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YM4IYi2BRxCZG9mrwvXF2w) State and local governments face many competing priorities for limited funding. Meanwhile, the impacts of a changing climate are making the infrastructure challenges more dynamic. Utilities, local governments, and states are increasingly turning to asset management to set priorities and make smarter investment decisions. Hear from those using data collection and utilization as a tool to improve community resilience and better understand how to incentivize and improve asset management around the country. Moderator: Celine Hyer, PE, Senior Vice President, ARCADIS Speakers: • Joanna Johnson, Chair, Michigan’s Transportation Asset Management Council • Matthew Vega, PE National Director of Infrastructure & Government, US CAD • Darryl Street, Senior Financial Policy Advisor, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, District of Columbia [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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for BRIC](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/white-house-doubles-funding-for-bric/) **Published:** May 26, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=White%20House%20Doubles%20Funding%20for%20BRIC&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=White%20House%20Doubles%20Funding%20for%20BRIC "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=White%20House%20Doubles%20Funding%20for%20BRIC&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Biden administration has [announced](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/05/24/fact-sheet-biden-administration-invests-1-billion-to-protect-communities-families-and-businesses-before-disaster-strikes/) that it will double federal funding to encourage communities to better prepare for hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. Specifically, the President has authorized the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to double to $1 billion for FY 2021 the funding available for the [Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities](https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/building-resilient-infrastructure-communities), or BRIC program. Under the program, funds are distributed as grants to help cities and states prepare for extreme weather and other disasters. The news was released following the announcement from the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)](https://www.noaa.gov/media-release/noaa-predicts-another-active-atlantic-hurricane-season) that the Atlantic can expect another above-average hurricane season this year and as the West prepares for another deep drought. The White House also announced the launch of a new National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) initiative to more closely monitor how the climate is changing, and the impact of these changes on local communities, both in the near term and into the future. The plan is for an [Earth System Observatory ](https://eospso.nasa.gov/content/nasas-earth-observing-system-project-science-office)that will instruct Earth-observing satellites to better track and understand climate change, including its effects at the local and regional level. The BRIC program was created in 2018 and awards grants to states, local communities, and tribes to undertake pre-disaster hazard mitigation projects. ASCE was instrumental in the underlining legislation, [Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018](https://www.fema.gov/disasters/disaster-recovery-reform-act-2018) that authorized the program, was well as working with FEMA to implement it. ASCE has made resilience a priority in working with the Administration and Congress as we work to implement the solutions found in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=White%20House%20Doubles%20Funding%20for%20BRIC&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [ASCE Lends Expertise to Policy Recommendations on Improving State Disaster Response](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-lends-expertise-to-policy-recommendations-on-improving-state-disaster-response/) **Published:** April 13, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Lends%20Expertise%20to%20Policy%20Recommendations%20on%20Improving%20State%20Disaster%20Response&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [National Conference of State Legislatures’ ](http://ncsl.org/)(NCSL) [Public Private Partnership on Disaster Mitigation and Recovery](https://www.ncsl.org/aboutus/ncsl-foundation-for-state-legislatures/ncsl-public-private-partnership-on-disaster-mitigation-and-recovery.aspx#:~:text=The%20NCSL%20Foundation%20for%20State,federal%2C%20state%20and%20private%20sector) published a series of policy recommendations this month. The partnership, of which ASCE belongs, was convened in response to the devastating 2017 disaster season and is comprised of state legislators, staff, and private sector partners. The report, “[Natural Disaster State Policy Recommendations](https://www.ncsl.org/documents/statefed/Public-Private-Partnership-on-Disaster-Mitigation-and-Recovery_R2.pdf),” echoes many of the solutions to raise the grades included in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. First, the NCSL partnership makes recommendations related to funding. The group urges better tracking of disaster spending to identify cost-saving opportunities, inefficiencies, and to generally be better stewards of public funds. NCSL also encourages legislatures to consider innovative mechanisms for funding disaster response and recovery, including creating rainy day funds, as well as creating environmental impact bonds and tax credits to incentivize disaster planning. The bulk of the NCSL Public Private Partnership on Disaster Mitigation and Recovery report is focused state disaster policy reform. Specifically, the report recommends an emphasis at the state level on mitigation and infrastructure resilience. By considering policies that strengthen building codes and standards, NCSL underscores that money can be saved, citing a National Institute of Building Sciences study that found that regular adoption of building codes provides an $11 benefit for every $1 invested. ASCE is identified as a [source of national, consensus-based standards](https://www.asce.org/codes-and-standards/codes-and-standards/) that account for future risk throughout the design life of structures. The NCSL report also comments on the importance of embracing intentional land-use policies that prevent building in high-risk areas and adopting mitigation measures like creating a statewide disaster resilience plan. While the report is mostly focused on state funding and policy solutions, NCSL also has recommendations for the federal government. Specifically, the partnership asks that Congress expediate supplemental disaster aid packages as quickly as possible, as well as address the financial solvency of the National Flood Insurance Program, codify CDBG-DR grants, and enact legislation to consolidate disaster programs at FEMA, HUD, and in other locations. ![Forest fire at night with flames among trees and thick orange smoke.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/matt-howard-eAKDzK4lo4o-unsplash-400x225.jpg "matt-howard-eAKDzK4lo4o-unsplash") The report ends with suggestions for best practices on interstate mutual aid and private sector and non-profit solutions. The recommendations are timely, as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found the U.S. has averaged almost 12 “billion-dollar” disasters each year over the past 10 years. With damages averaging about $106 billion annually, identifying cost-saving and life-saving initiatives and enacting them into state policy is urgent. To read the full report, click [here](https://www.ncsl.org/documents/statefed/Public-Private-Partnership-on-Disaster-Mitigation-and-Recovery_R2.pdf). 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Nationwide](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-a-leading-voice-for-infrastructure-dialogue-nationwide/) **Published:** May 20, 2021 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20a%20Leading%20Voice%20for%20Infrastructure%20Dialogue%20Nationwide&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F03%2F1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20a%20Leading%20Voice%20for%20Infrastructure%20Dialogue%20Nationwide "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20a%20Leading%20Voice%20for%20Infrastructure%20Dialogue%20Nationwide&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Infrastructure has been all the rage these days, as President Biden and members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have been calling for generational investment in the nation’s built environment as a means of revitalizing the economy and getting Americans back to work. Massive investments have been proposed, including President Biden’s $2.2 trillion [American Jobs Plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2021/03/31/fact-sheet-the-american-jobs-plan/) and the GOP’s [$568 billion counter-proposal](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1O5C09EA4_2WEaxTF15HL6eAQF9bLvdcq/view), leaving news outlets and American citizens wondering – why now, and what is truly needed to bring our infrastructure to a state of good repair? To better understand the conditions our bridges, roads, drinking water and wastewater systems are in and what is needed to improve them, media outlets have consistently turned to ASCE to contextualize the challenges these structures face. Since President Biden’s American Jobs Plan was unveiled on March 31, 2021, ASCE has been mentioned in the media more than 6,800 times, including outlets such as [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/article/environment-and-nature-wind-power-business-government-and-politics-joe-biden-da3d7d01c7e60db8433b1dfa1a02bd99), [The New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/02/us/infrastructure-projects-joe-biden.html), [The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/05/14/memphis-bridge-crack/), [The Wall Street Journal](https://www.wsj.com/articles/a-better-corporate-tax-for-america-11617813355), ![Split-screen live interview: news anchor on left with microphone, guest in suit on right, Bloomberg studio background and headline about infrastructure plan at bottom (WH INFRASTRUCTURE PLAN...).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screenshot-2021-05-20-12.38.51-400x225.jpg "Screenshot 2021-05-20 12.38.51")ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith on Bloombergs Balance of Power[USA Today](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2021/03/22/joe-bidens-plan-roads-bridges-airports-may-hit-snag-congress/4757270001/), [CNN](https://app2.cision.com/#/articles/150001068734706), [CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/video/60-minutes-examines-the-effects-of-the-water-crisis-on-jackson-mississippi-residents/?intcid=CNM-00-10abd1h), [FOX News](https://www.foxnews.com/transcript/pete-buttigieg-on-opposition-to-bidens-massive-infrastructure-plan), [NBC News,](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/dam-safety-advocates-feel-forgotten-biden-s-2-trillion-infrastructure-n1263470) NBC’s [Meet the Press](https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/meet-press-april-04-2021-n1262993), The Rachel Maddow Show on [MSNBC](https://app2.cision.com/#/articles/150001067018374), [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2021/04/01/983576400/the-decline-of-infrastructure-across-the-u-s), [PBS Newshour](https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/americas-infrastructure-is-crumbling-what-should-be-prioritized), [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2021-03-31/-balance-of-power-full-show-03-31-2021-video), [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/05/19/how-the-new-infrastructure-plan-can-help-innovate-transportation/?sh=20a8bb0d4927) and many more. ASCE members and staff have taken part in dozens of interviews to answer detailed questions about why infrastructure investment is so critical to the safety of Americans and the well-being of our economy, with ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure and the nation’s cumulative grade of ‘C-‘ serving as the centerpiece for any infrastructure dialogue. To provide a better understanding about how our mediocre grades are impacting U.S. businesses and American families, ASCE has also developed the Failure to Act economic study. Failure to Act has identified a $2.59 trillion infrastructure investment gap over the next 10 years from all levels of government. President Biden’s $2.2 trillion proposal and the GOP’s $568 billion counter-proposal would each make a significant dent in the overall investment gap. This figure has served as a primary talking point for media outlets looking to provide context to the needs our country faces and was further discussed by ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith in his interview on Bloomberg’s *Balance of Power*, and by ASCE member Maria Lehman’s interview on NPR’s *All Things Considered*. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Screenshot-2021-05-20-14.14.14-400x225.jpg "Screenshot 2021-05-20 14.14.14")NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt on ASCEs Infrastructure Report CardIn addition to legislative discussions, ASCE continues to be at the forefront of breaking news regarding infrastructure issues around the nation. When the I-40 bridge over the Mississippi River connecting Arkansas to Memphis was found to have a major crack, ASCE was used as a reference on [NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt](https://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/video/cracked-memphis-bridge-causing-major-traffic-111986757768), [CNN](https://us.cnn.com/2021/05/16/investing/stocks-week-ahead/index.html), and [The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/05/14/memphis-bridge-crack/), among others. As Jackson, MS struggles to repair its aging drinking water infrastructure, [CBS’ 60 Minutes+](https://www.cbsnews.com/video/60-minutes-examines-the-effects-of-the-water-crisis-on-jackson-mississippi-residents/?intcid=CNM-00-10abd1h) used ASCE’s Report Card to compare the issues in Jackson to the rest of the country. And as legislators in Texas debate investment prioritization of the proposed Ike Dike project in Houston, the [Houston Chronicle](https://www.houstonchronicle.com/politics/texas/article/This-is-the-time-Rep-Fletcher-pushes-for-16125111.php) spoke with ASCE members about the importance of major water projects to the region. As the national dialogue regarding infrastructure in the U.S. continues to unfold and transformational legislation progresses, ASCE will continue to inform the public about our systems’ needs and advocate for significant investments that can reshape the future of America. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20a%20Leading%20Voice%20for%20Infrastructure%20Dialogue%20Nationwide&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, media, news, report card --- ### [ASCE 2021 Infrastructure Report Card Gives U.S. 'C-' Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-2021-infrastructure-report-card-gives-u-s-c-grade/) **Published:** March 4, 2021 **Author:** Kevin Longley **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The nation earned a ‘C-’, up from 2017’s cumulative GPA of ‘D+’. This is the [first time](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) since ASCE began issuing the report card that the nation’s infrastructure has received a GPA outside of the D range. The highest grade was the ‘B’ in the rail category, while the lowest was the ‘D-’ for the nation’s transit systems. The report finds that 45% of Americans lack reliable access to transit services. Eleven categories received grades in the ‘D’ range. The Report Card covers 17 categories of infrastructure pertinent to all Americans, including a new stormwater chapter, and a spotlight on broadband. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need for national broadband infrastructure has become more apparent than ever during the last year. ![Aviation button with airplane icon and D+ grade to the right side of the badge icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/High-Res-Grades-Chart-309x400.jpg "High Res Grades Chart") Between 2017 and 2021, five category grades increased while only one—bridges—decreased. This, combined with state and local governments’ commitment to improving infrastructure, indicate that infrastructure investment in the United State is trending upwards. However, 11 of the 17 categories received scores in the ‘D’ range: aviation, dams, hazardous waste, inland waterways, levees, public parks, roads, schools, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. This demonstrates that much more work is needed to be done to improve the overall infrastructure network. Many sectors, especially those with lower grades, have staggering maintenance backlogs. Implementation of asset management can be helpful for these categories to ensure maintenance needs are taken care of when necessary. With such large backlogs, developing a clear understanding of where available funds are most needed is essential for protecting lives and maintaining a productive economy. The country’s total infrastructure needs over the next 10 years total nearly $6 trillion, but after considering various sources of committed funding, the gap to meet those needs is $2.59 trillion. If this is not addressed, America’s overdue infrastructure bill will cost each American household approximately $3,300 per year, or $63 per week. In order to close this gap, ASCE calls for strong federal, state, and local leadership and investment in infrastructure. Additionally, resilience must be a priority, as the ability to withstand or recover from extreme events is key to infrastructure survival. After the unveiling of the report card, ASCE hosted the virtual Solutions Summit, which included spotlights on various infrastructure topics such as energy, dams, levees, transportation, water, inland waterways, and ports. Speakers included a keynote speech U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg and panels including notable names such as Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), and Representative Garret Graces (R-LA), among many others. 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Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alaska/), the section’s first report card since 2017. The report assigned the state’s systems a cumulative grade of “C-”, which is on par with the national grade of “C-“ and the same grade the state received in its 2017 report. A “C-” grade means the state’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition and requires attention. The report analyzes 12 categories of infrastructure pertinent to Alaska: aviation (C), bridges (B-), dams (C), drinking water (D), energy (C-), marine highways (D), ports and harbors (D+), rail (C), roads (C), solid waste (C), transit (B-) and wastewater (D). ASCE Alaska Section past-president David Gamez, section treasurer Doug Simon, and Anchorage Section board member Dan Nichols presented the findings alongside Alaska DOT Commissioner Ryan Anderson and AML Executive Director Nils Andreassen. You can’t tackle Alaskan infrastructure without first considering the extreme weather and geographical challenges its residents face. Its infrastructure needs to be up to the task, whether it must deal with seismic events, permafrost, shore erosion, avalanches, and varying temperatures reaching low extremes and new record highs. Nonetheless, the state has consistently maintained its transportation infrastructure, solid waste and energy sectors despite these omnipresent environmental threats. However, some sectors such as drinking water, wastewater, and Alaska’s marine highways have fallen behind due to a lack of funding to keep up with current and future needs. Future improvements to Alaska’s bridges (B-) and roads (C) are hindered by the state’s 8 cents per gallon gas tax, the lowest rate in the nation and one which hasn’t been adjusted since 1970. While this lack of revenue jeopardizes long-term plans, each sector is performing adequately at the moment, partially due to factors such as low population growth and relatively low traffic congestion. Pavement conditions have improved too, as 15.6% of Alaskan roadways were in poor condition in 2015, and just 8.1% were in poor condition in 2018. The same is true of bridges. Roughly 9.5% of the state’s bridges were in poor condition in 2015 compared to just 7% today, lower than the national average of 7.5%. Both sectors fared favorably when challenged by seismic events and avalanches. Mass transit (B), which received the highest grade in the report, provides service to all of Alaska’s urban areas, or 72% of the state’s population – quite a feat given the geographical challenges of hosting reliable transit in Alaska. Each community system serves a diverse array of riders using multiple modes of transit. Across the state, transit is reliant upon annual funding from federal, state, and local governments, as the collection of passenger fares, profit from advertisements, and private donations only cover part of the costs. Drinking water, wastewater, and marine highways each received a ‘D’ grade, the lowest in the report, due to insufficient funding mechanisms. The drinking water sector faces an estimated $1 billion funding need over the next 20 years, with an average of more than $80 million per year needed over the next decade, while only about 10% of that total is available through existing programs. Residents in 32 rural communities do not have in-home piped water or a community watering point and must haul water. Even residents in mid-size cities struggle with drinking water and sanitation services. In Bethel, a regional economic and administrative hub, 68% of residents lack piped water and sewer service, relying instead on truck-hauled service. Urban communities in Alaska have wastewater systems similar to those in cities across the US, funded primarily by user fees and/or local taxes and periodically receive state and federal funding; however, rural communities vary between centralized sewer to no service at all. In 2019, Alaska ranked last among all 50 states for the percentage of its citizens receiving complete sanitation, which includes a flush toilet, shower or bath, and a kitchen sink. The report also includes calls to action to raise the grades, such as: - Have a plan and fund for the future. All infrastructure owners and operators should create and fund capital replacement plans for both immediate and long-term needs. - Prioritize maintenance. Regular maintenance keeps costs down and the economy moving. Sometimes it’s all about the basics. - Innovate as we replace. This means Alaska must support and encourage innovative solutions to infrastructure funding. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Alaska%20Releases%20New%20Infrastructure%20Grades&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State Report --- ### [A Once in a Lifetime Historic Investment Warrants Longer-Lasting Materials](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-once-in-a-lifetime-historic-investment-warrants-longer-lasting-materials/) **Published:** July 26, 2021 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Some categories of infrastructure were graded as low as D-. With the Biden Administration and Congress moving towards a large infrastructure spending package in the bipartisan infrastructure framework, described as a “once in a lifetime historic investment,” America needs to make smart choices with any additional infrastructure funding available. Such investments should better ensure that infrastructure construction and repairs are durable and provide long-term value, rather than just short-term fixes. **Rebuilding Stronger** One of the ways we can rethink future projects and costs is to incorporate cutting-edge material advancements. A large part of our nation’s infrastructure is made of concrete, and much of it has reached the end of its original service life with more reaching that milestone every year. Over the past 20 years a new material called ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) has gained a foothold in transportation infrastructure, largely due to the research and education efforts of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). With strength up to five times greater and durability up to 100-times greater than conventional concrete, UPHC serves not only as an ultra-high-performance substitute for conventional concrete in new construction, but it can also repair and rehabilitate existing concrete infrastructure with exceptionally long-lasting results. UHPC has even been proven effective to repair and extend the service life of steel structures. ![Infographic showing three product benefits: 5X stronger, 10X wear resistance, and 100X corrosion protection.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/SteellikeImage0-400x124.png "SteellikeImage0") *Figure 1: UHPC vs. Conventional Concrete* Used strategically, UHPC is a sustainable material that can result in long-term cost savings with potentially only a minimal upfront cost premium. For new construction, it requires less material and lasts significantly longer, thereby eliminating multiple repairs or replacements currently needed with conventional concrete. For rehabilitations, it can save infrastructure that is otherwise slated for replacement, potentially doubling the service life, or more, of the original construction. This can result in significant savings in terms of cost, environmental impacts, and user impacts. Using UHPC truly is a tool to “build back better.” Table 1 shows specific applications of UHPC and what advantages it brings. *Table 1: UHPC Uses and Benefits* | **UHPC Application** | **Benefits** | |---|---| | **Structures** | Exceptional resistance to corrosion of reinforcement, lighter weight. | | **Decks/slabs or deck/slab rehabilitation (overlay)** | Exceptional resistance to wear and corrosion of reinforcement | | **Beams** | Longer spans, more under clearance, lighter weight | | **Piling** | Exceptional resistance to sea water and corrosive soils | | **Precast element connections** | Rapid precast construction with strong, durable connections | | **Link slabs** | Replace leaky joints with long-lasting solid slabs | | **Pipe or channel lining** | Exceptional resistance to wear and chemical attack | | **Concrete repairs** | Strong bond, long-lasting, will not cause “halo” corrosion around repair | | **Structural steel repairs** | Strengthen and protect damaged steel without cutting, welding, or bolting | Studies performed for the Delaware Memorial suspension bridge indicated that a UHPC bridge deck overlay provided the best value to repair the aging bridge deck versus other overlay materials. Additionally, the study demonstrated that UHPC is the only overlay material that can provide additional service life on par with that of a new bridge deck, with significant savings in both cost and traffic disruption. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Steelike-Infographic1-400x149.png "Steelike Infographic1") *Figure 2: Results of UHPC Overlay Study for Delaware Memorial Bridge* ![Bridge construction crew working on a bridge deck; words on concrete read 'Improving Bridge Preservation with Ultra-High Performance Concrete' (Public Roads, Winter 2021).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/SteellikeImage1-310x400.jpg "SteellikeImage1") *Figure 3: FHWA Public Roads magazine cover featuring Steelike® UHPC overlay being placed on Newport Pell Bridge deck* The FHWA Turner Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC), whose leadership has been the driving force behind the adoption of UHPC in U.S. infrastructure, tracks UHPC deployments in North American transportation infrastructure. As of the end of 2020, TFHRC reported over 430 such deployments, the majority of which are in the United States, with an exponentially increasing rate of use over the last 10 years, as shown in Figure 4. This is a solid track record showing continually increasing confidence in the material. As the Report Card shows, however, there are many other sectors of U.S. infrastructure besides transportation, and most of them are not taking advantage of UHPC and its extreme durability – and its many other advantageous properties. ![Bar chart showing growth in US bridges with UHPC from 2006 to 2020, rising from near zero to about 350 by 2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/SteellikeGraph1-400x236.png "SteellikeGraph1")*Figure 4: Cumulative number of bridges constructed or rehabilitated with UHPC in US by year (credit FHWA)* *![Large white concrete beam on a blue steel test frame in an industrial workshop with machinery and tools around it inside a lab-like facility.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/FHWA-400x225.jpg "FHWA")Figure 5: Precast bridge girder fabricated from Steelike® UHPC being tested by FHWA (credit FHWA)* As infrastructure owners overseeing other sectors of U.S. infrastructure consider ways to strategically invest additional funding and significantly improve the lifespan of assets, they should take note of the growing use of UHPC in transportation infrastructure and recognize the significant benefits that UHPC can bring to their respective sectors. They can get a running start using UHPC by leveraging the research, knowledge, and documentation that the TFHRC and academia have built up over the last two decades. Additionally, many of the proven UHPC applications in transportation can be readily adapted to other sectors of infrastructure – for example the wear resistance and corrosion protection of a UHPC bridge deck overlay can be readily adapted to a dam spillway or an industrial port pier – as laid out in Table 2. This is a key way to ensure that America’s historic investment in infrastructure provides long-term value in all sectors with construction that lasts for generations and doesn’t simply kick the can down the road for a few decades. *Table 2: How UHPC can increase service life in all infrastructure sectors* | **Infrastructure Sector from ASCE Infrastructure Report Card** | **Examples of Where UHPC Can be Used to Increase Service Life** | |---|---| | Aviation | Overlays of runways and aprons, new pavement | | Bridges | Repairs, deck overlays, new structures | | Dams | Spillways, waterproofing | | Drinking Water | Storage and conveyance lining, new construction | | Energy | Pavements and structures exposed to corrosive chemicals/vapors | | Hazardous Waste | Containment of corrosive or radioactive wastes | | Inland Waterways | Lock repairs, new construction | | Levees | Spillways, waterproofing | | Ports | High load and high wear surfaces, seawalls and marine piling | | Public Parks | Long-lasting structures that can mimic the appearance of natural materials | | Rail | Rail bridge repairs, new structures | | Roads | Overlays of concrete pavement, new pavement | | Schools | Repair and upgrade of concrete building structures, New exposed structures | | Solid Waste | Overlays of pavement at transfer facilities, new pavement | | Stormwater | Conveyance lining, new construction | | Transit | Bridge and station repairs, new structures | | Wastewater | Treatment facility and conveyance lining, new construction | *Mr. McDonagh is Vice President, Engineering & Projects for Steelike where he sets up each construction projects for success, by bringing his depth of engineering experience along with his UHPC expertise to help engineers and contractors use Steelike® UHPC and understand how it saves time, labor, and money. Michael has more than two decades of experience in bridge design and project management in three continents, including more than 10 years of design experience with UHPC, and is a frequent speaker on UHPC and the use of UHPC in bridge construction and repair. Steelike, Inc. is a woman- and minority-owned company.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=A%20Once%20in%20a%20Lifetime%20Historic%20Investment%20Warrants%20Longer-Lasting%20Materials&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2021%2F07%2FFHWA.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=A%20Once%20in%20a%20Lifetime%20Historic%20Investment%20Warrants%20Longer-Lasting%20Materials "Share on 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ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20Approves%20Chips%20Plus%20Science%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20Approves%20Chips%20Plus%20Science%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Approves%20Chips%20Plus%20Science%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Among the flurry of pre-August break activity, Congress approved The CHIPS and Science Act. Led by the Senate, which crafted and passed the bipartisan legislation, the bill injects tens of billions of dollars into the domestic production of semiconductor chips, as well as increases authorizations for a number of science and research programs, which ASCE strongly support. President Biden is expected to sign the measure into law. The act, which evolved relatively quickly in the Senate, is known as the CHIPS-plus or CHIPS and Science Act, passed in a 64-33 vote. The House quickly followed suit in passing the measure on a bipartisan 243-187 vote. It is a paired down version of the America COMPETES Act, which ran into head winds over the last few weeks. In a bid to salvage parts of the bill, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, (D-NY) pulled the provisions related to support for the domestic microchip industry out as a stand-alone measure. After a strong push from members of Congress, as well as ASCE and other science and engineering groups, the research and development provisions of COMPETES were added to the bill. The bill appropriates or actually funds a total of $54.2 billion, the vast majority ($52.7 billion) for subsidies to build chip plants in the U.S. and support U.S. chip research and development, and it provides a 25% tax credit for building and equipping U.S. chip plants which is estimated to provide another $24.3 billion in support. The ASCE supported provisions, the science part or Division B, significantly increases authorizations for federal science and technology research and development programs, specifically authorizing about $174 billion through FY 2027 to support the nation’s science and technology base — including for interagency programs to boost technological innovation and help translate federally funded research to commercial applications. Among the specific programs, the measure provides authorization of $81 billion over five years for the National Science Foundation (NSF) an increase of $36 billion over the agency’s baseline authorization. The measure would also provide $20 billion over the five-years to create a National Directorate for Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (“TIP”), which would focus on accelerated domestic development of national and economic-security critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, 6G communications, energy, and material science. The measure also provides authorization for increases in basic research grants as well as STEM education programs, including scholarships, fellowships, and traineeships to create workers in critical fields. Within the Department of Commerce, the Act authorizes the creation of 20 geographically distributed “regional technology hubs”. These hubs will focus on technology development, job creation, and expanding U.S. innovation capacity. Additionally, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) would be authorized at $9 billion over 5-years, a $4 billion increase over baseline. Included in that total is increased support for expanding interagency coordination and information exchange activities to support private sector engagement and ensure effective Federal engagement in the development and use of international standards. ASCE was a strong supporter of the legislation, noting in a letter to members of Congress that just as the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) targets many of the solutions outlined in ASCE’s 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure to raise the grades, the CHIPS and Science Act will help restore the United States’ commitment to research and development. ASCE believes that together with the IIJA, a significant investment in R&D will accelerate the development of new and innovative materials and processes, which will cut costs and facilitate sustainable and resilient infrastructure. Therefore, the CHIPS and Science Act is the complement that the IIJA requires in order to meet future needs and ensure the best possible infrastructure for the 21st century. 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solid waste strong, roads and transit most in need](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-york-earns-c-on-its-2022-infrastructure-report-card-solid-waste-strong-roads-and-transit-most-in-need/) **Published:** July 21, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F01%2FASCE-Report-Card-NY-2022-1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F01%2FASCE-Report-Card-NY-2022-1.jpg&description=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, July 19, the New York section of ASCE unveiled its *2022 Report Card for New York’s Infrastructure*. The report assigned a cumulative grade of ‘C’ from separate chapters addressing 11 categories, meaning New York’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition. Civil engineers graded aviation (C+), bridges (C-), dams (C), drinking water (C-), ports (C+), public parks (B-), rail (C), roads (D+), solid waste (B-), transit (D+) and wastewater (D+). Those experts volunteered over 18 months to produce this [report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-york) with a public service goal: highlight for the public and decision-makers the many improvements to infrastructure in recent years and lay out necessary improvements impossible without firm funding commitments. ![Group of professionally dressed people posing indoors beside a tall green banner with ASCE logo, in a carved stone setting.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/PNG-ASCE-NY-2022-Report-Card-Release-Albany-Speaker-Group-Photo.jpg "PNG - ASCE NY 2022 Report Card Release - Albany Speaker Group Photo")ASCE members presented New Yorks Infrastructure Report Card beneath the Million Dollar Staircase at the State Capitol Joining them were Assemblymembers Angelo Santabarbara and John McDonald III plus ACEC New York President John Evers Courtesy ACEC New YorkASCE members hosted release events in Albany, Buffalo, New York City, and Syracuse with report authors explaining those findings to colleagues, the [media](https://www.constructiondive.com/news/new-york-civil-engineers-asce-infrastructure-c-grade/627626/), and elected officials. [At the State Capitol](https://wnyt.com/top-stories/new-york-gets-c-grade-on-infrastructure) in Albany, ASCE members [shared](https://twitter.com/ACECNewYork/status/1549497091860402181) the report findings with print and broadcast media [alongside](https://twitter.com/AsmSantabarbara/status/1549499883995938816) Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara – a civil engineer – and Assemblymember John McDonald III. At Syracuse’s Water Department, ASCE New York members presented to media and colleagues – joined by Assemblymember Bill Magnarelli, Syracuse Chief Operating Officer Corey Durham, and Syracuse Water Chief Joe Awald. At Buffalo’s River Fest Park, ASCE President-Elect Maria Lehman joined a large group of Buffalo-area members to share the new report card with [local media](https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/binghamton/news/2022/07/20/slight-improvements-made-in-2022-nys-infrastructure-grades). In Brooklyn, New York City, ASCE members [discussed](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bill-murray-7192018_infrastructure-engineering-construction-activity-6955631586872590337-X7TV?utm_source=linkedin_share&utm_medium=member_desktop_web) the new report [Under the K Bridge Park](https://nbkparks.org/under-the-k/). The public space is creative re-use of recently rebuilt infrastructure: a linear park several blocks long beside the approach and under the deck of the Kosciuszko Bridge in Greenpoint. The new bridge [replaced](https://www.roadsbridges.com/bridge-construction/article/10653451/no-1-bridge-kosciuszko-bridgephase-2) a 1.1-mile section of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, adding a bike/walk side path and safer bridge structure. Beside Newtown Creek under the bridge, within earshot of active import/export businesses utilizing the channel, ASCE members explained how New York’s ports were expanding capacity and improving conditions in an era of online shopping and fresh food of international origin on the menu of small-town restaurants. The next step for New York’s civil engineers is public education and advocacy. These fresh findings inform New Yorkers on their infrastructure. Equipped with that knowledge, they can advocate for better project designs and greater investment from local, state, and federal governments. ASCE members are active in that organizing, as well as ACEC, the American Council of Engineering Companies. ACEC’s local leaders joined several report card release events. Find more information and the full report at <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-york/> ![Man in a dark suit and pink tie speaks into a microphone at a clear podium outdoors under a highway, flanked by blue '100 Year Anniversary' ASCE banners.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/JPG-ASCE-NY-2022-Release-NYC-7.19.22-ASCE-Member-Feni-Speaks.jpg "JPG - ASCE NY 2022 Release - NYC 7.19.22 - ASCE Member Feni Speaks")Feniosky Peña Mora PE PhD shares his immigrant background while announcing New Yorks 2022 Report Card on Infrastructure Photo by Gordon Chaffin[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20York%20earns%20C%20on%20its%202022%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%3B%20solid%20waste%20strong%2C%20roads%20and%20transit%20most%20in%20need&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State Report --- ### [President Trump Proposes FY2021 Budget With $1 Trillion for Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-proposes-fy-2021-budget-with-1-trillion-for-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 10, 2020 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=President%20Trump%20Proposes%20FY2021%20Budget%20With%20%241%20Trillion%20for%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=President%20Trump%20Proposes%20FY2021%20Budget%20With%20%241%20Trillion%20for%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Proposes%20FY2021%20Budget%20With%20%241%20Trillion%20for%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On the heels of his [2020 State of the Union Address](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=35436), President Trump released his election-year $4.8 trillion Fiscal Year(FY) [2021 budget request](https://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget/). While the President’s request is nonbinding, it does provide insight on the Administration’s priorities and how it would like Congress to allocate funds. Like previous budgets unveiled by President Trump, the FY21 budget proposes deep cuts in non-defense spending, despite a budget deal that was already negotiated with Congress last summer. Additionally, for the third straight year, the Administration’s proposal abandons the traditional 10-year goal to eliminate the deficit, instead setting a 15-year target. While discretionary spending programs see significant cuts in the FY21 budget request, the proposal does include a 10-year, $810 billion reauthorization of surface transportation programs. The proposal also includes: - an additional $190 billion for infrastructure investments; - one billion each for BUILD and INFRA grants; and - a new Rural Opportunities to Use Transportation for Economic Success (ROUTES) initiative. The $190 billion one-time investment would include: - $60 billion for a mega projects program; - $50 billion for a new freight program; - $35 billion for a new bridge program; - $35 billion for rural infrastructure, and - $20 billion for the mass transit backlog. Unfortunately, the majority of discretionary programs see a reduction, with the EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers seeing some of the most drastic cuts. More details by department or agency are as follows: **Department of Transportation** – $21.6 billion in discretionary budget authority—a reduction of 13% from FY20 appropriations. The 10-year reauthorization of surface transportation programs would provide a total of $602 billion for programs administered through the Federal Highway Administration, $155 billion for programs through the Federal Transit Administration, and $19.8 billion for NHTSA and FMCSA programs. The budget request also includes $14.2 billion for the FAA and calls on states and Amtrak to look at ways to restructure the network. **Environmental Protection Agency** – $6.7 billion; a reduction of 27% from FY20 appropriations. The limited proposal would fund the State Revolving Loan Funds at nearly $2 billion, a cut of about $700 million from the FY20 enacted level and provides $25 million in funding for the WIFIA credit program, a cut of $10 million from the FY20 enacted level. The plan would also provide $80 million for brownfields remediation at Qualified Opportunity Zones. **U.S. Army Corps of Engineers** – $6 billion; a reduction of 22% from FY20 appropriations. The proposal would not allow for starting new construction projects; instead, prioritizing operations and maintenance of existing water resources infrastructure. The proposal would allow USACE to transfer up to $250 million in appropriated funds to non-Federal sponsors that decide to construct a project on their own and would provide $100 million for emergency accounts to quickly rebuild levees and repair ports after a natural disaster. Finally, the proposal calls for an annual per-vessel fee for commercial users to fund the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. **Department of Energy** – $35.4 billion— a reduction of 8% from FY20 appropriations. The budget seeks to reduce or eliminate the Federal government’s role in electricity transmission infrastructure ownership and prioritizes examining energy efficiency regulations. Additionally, the budget would cut the Department’s Office of Science by 17%, to $5.7 billion and cut the Department’s Advanced Research Project’s Agency – Energy by 173%, not only eliminating the program, but also forcing it to return $311 million to the U.S. Treasury. **Department of Education** – The proposal would consolidate almost all existing K-12 formula and competitive grant programs into one block grant to states, called the Elementary and Secondary Education for the Disadvantaged (ESED) Block Grant. This new block grant would be funded at $19.4 billion. **FEMA** – $2.48 billion; a reduction from $3.17 billion appropriated in FY20. This includes $279 million, down from $355 million in FY20, for emergency management performance grants under the National Flood Insurance Act, the Stafford Act, and the Earthquake Hazards Reduction Act. **National Park Service –** Requests $6.5 billion to create a new dedicated trust fund to address the $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog. **National Institute of Standards and Technology** – $718 million; a reduction of approximately $300 million from FY20 appropriations. **NASA** – $25.2 billion; an increase of 12% from FY20 appropriations. **National Science Foundation** – $7.7 billion; a reduction of 7% from FY20 appropriations. **U.S. Geological Survey** – Science programs would receive $200 million, a reduction of 30% from FY20 appropriations **Economic Development Administration** – The grant program is zeroed out for the 4th consecutive year. So, what’s next? Like past budgets, Congress is unlikely to adopt the President’s proposal and the two- year spending deal negotiated last summer is likely to remain in place. That agreement would raise spending by $320 billion over existing caps. 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Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-respond-to-house-passage-of-1-5-trillion-infrastructure-plan-moving-forward-act-continues-call-for-bipartisanship/) last week, Chairman David Price (D-NC4) and the U.S. House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies marked up and passed their [spending bill](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/AP/AP20/20200708/110865/BILLS-116--AP--TransHUD-FY2021THUDBill.pdf) for fiscal year (FY) 2021. The legislation provides $75.9 billion in total discretionary spending – a 2.2%, or $1.65 billion, increase from FY20. This includes $25.1 billion under the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) title, an $122 million increase over the FY20 level. Lastly, this spending bill includes an additional title designated for off-budget emergencies which includes $25.7 billion in total for DOT. Under both the DOT and emergency titles, the legislation includes the following: - $500 million supplemental for the [Airport Improvement Program](https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/) (AIP) plus an additional $2.5 billion for FAA Grants-in-Aid for Airports for emergency relief. The FY20 funding level was $3.35 billion plus a $400 million supplemental. ***ASCE’s request was for a $1 billion supplemental.*** - $1 billion for the [Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants) (BUILD) grant program plus an additional $3 billion in emergency spending for the grant program. The FY20 funding level was $1 billion. ***ASCE’s request was for $1.5 billion.*** - $2.2 billion for the Transit [Capital Investment Grants](https://cms7.fta.dot.gov/capital-investment-grants-5309) (CIG) program plus an additional $5 billion in emergency spending for the grant program. The FY20 funding level was $1.9 billion. ***ASCE’s request was for $2.6 billion.*** - Overall full funding for core highway and transit programs included in the [FAST Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/). The FY20 funding level was consistent with core program authorization levels and ***ASCE’s appropriations request was for full funding of core programs.*** - Lastly, the emergency title also included $5 billion for [Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements](https://railroads.dot.gov/grants-loans/competitive-discretionary-grant-programs/consolidated-rail-infrastructure-and-safety-2) (CRISI) program, $5 billion for Northeast Corridor Grants to Amtrak, $3 billion for National Network Grants to [Amtrak](https://www.amtrak.com/home.html?cmp=pdsrch-Amtrak|Brand|Amtrak%20KW|Non-Core%20DMA|Exact-google&gclid=Cj0KCQjw3ZX4BRDmARIsAFYh7ZKH98w4wUUMwI7ztqcqhsKL6wSZFW8H3jqbcugMumjFzXnYrXwbjpwaAuBMEALw_wcB), and $1 billion for [Port Infrastructure Development Program](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/ports/port-infrastructure-development-program). ASCE supports these programs to raise our nation’s subpar aviation, roads, bridges, ports, and transit grades. We are also encouraged that this legislation looks to tackle COVID-19 impacts to our nation’s critical transportation infrastructure and continue to urge for congressional action on relieving the pandemic’s impact on [state DOTs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-dots-request-50-billion-in-emergency-relief-amid-covid-19-pandemic/). The legislation was quickly reported to the Full House Appropriations Committee for markup before moving to the House floor for a vote. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriators%20Introduce%20Fiscal%20Year%202021%20Spending%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")While the House [passed their bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-fy21-homeland-security-interior-environment-and-energy-water-development-appropriations-bills-on-the-move/) earlier this year, Senate Appropriators this week introduced all [12 spending bills for fiscal year (FY) 2021](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/committee-releases-fy21-bills-in-effort-to-advance-process-produce-bipartisan-results?source=email). These spending bills come as Congress enters the lame-duck session and need to avert a potential government shutdown as we near the December 11 deadline. While House Appropriators included [COVID-19 supplemental funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-appropriators-markup-fy2021-transportation-spending-bill/), the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on [Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/fy21-thud-bill-text) FY21 appropriations bill did include $87 billion for the U.S. [Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/) (DOT), but not explicit supplement funding to battle the pandemic. Furthermore, the Senate THUD bill includes $1 billion for the [Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/about) (BUILD) grant program, which is $3 billion less than the House bill, but on par with FY20 enacted funding level. The [Capital Investment Grant](https://www.transit.dot.gov/CIG) (CIG) program would receive $1.8 billion in the Senate bill, which is less than the combined $7.2 billion included in the House bill, but also on par with FY20 enacted levels. In addition to $3.35 billion already included, the [Airport Improvement Program](https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/) (AIP) received an additional $400 million which is $100 million less than the House bill and on par with FY20 enacted levels. Lastly, the legislation includes maintaining overall core FAST Act funding at authorized levels. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on [Homeland Security](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/fy21-homeland-bill-text)’s FY21 appropriations bill includes $263 for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) [Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis program](https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps), which is the same as the House bill and in line with the FY20 enacted funding level. It also includes $14 million for the [High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-environment-public-works-committee-markup-includes-proposed-changes-to-the-high-hazard-potential-dam-rehabilitation-program/), which is a $4 million increase from the current FY20 funding level, but still falls short of its $60 million authorization. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on [Interior and Environment](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/fy21-interior-bill-text)’s FY21 appropriations bill funds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at $9.09 billion – which is slightly less than the House bill. It provides $1.63 billion for the [Clean Water State Revolving Fund program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/) and $1.12 billion for the [Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/) which is the same as the House bill and on par with programs’ FY20 enacted funding levels. The Senate bill also includes $60 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, which is more than the House bill (which had zeroed the program out) and on par with the program’s FY20 funding level. The report recommends that the agency prioritize WIFIA loans for projects that address lead or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Finally, the bill provides $3.1 billion for the National Park Service, which is slightly less than the House bill but a small increase above the FY20 enacted level. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on [Energy and Water](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/fy21-ewd-bill-text)’s FY21 appropriations bill funds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) Construction account at $2.6 billion, which is the same as the FY20 enacted funding level. The bill meets the spending targets set forth by authorizers for the [Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/covid-19-economic-stimulus-package-includes-win-for-harbor-maintenance-trust-fund/), which is a $50 million increase above the FY20 enacted level, and it makes full use of the estimated annual revenues from the Inland Waters Trust Fund. It funds USACE’s Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program with $22.8 million for the maintenance, upgrade, or repair of dams. The bill also funds the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) at $42 billion, a $3.8 billion increase over the FY20 funding level. Lastly, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on [Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/download/fy21-cjs-bill-text) FY21 appropriations bill includes $8.5 billion for the [National Science Foundation](https://www.nsf.gov/), $23.5 billion for the [National Aeronautics and Space Administration](https://www.nasa.gov/) (NASA), and, within the Department of Commerce’s $9.6 billion, the measure allocates $1 billion for the [National Institute of Standards and Technology](https://www.nist.gov/) (NIST), $340 million for the [Economic Development Administration](https://www.eda.gov/) (EDA), and $5.4 billion for the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration](https://www.noaa.gov/) (NOAA). With only four weeks before a potential government shutdown, now is the time for action. We urge lawmakers from both side of the Capitol to work in a bipartisan manner before funding expires on December 11th to ensure that our nation’s infrastructure receives the funding required to maintain and modernize our systems. ## Sign Up For Email Updates Select your home state, and we’ll let you know about upcoming legislation. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriators%20Introduce%20Fiscal%20Year%202021%20Spending%20Bills&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** appropriations, federal spending, infrastructure investment, senate --- ### [Keep the TRUST in the Trust Fund – UPDATE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/keep-the-trust-in-the-trust-fund-update/) **Published:** January 4, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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is proposing a new rule for the 112th Congress that would strip out guarantees that federal gas taxes be used solely for authorized transportation purposes. ASCE and our coalition partners have been working to oppose this rule, and while it is still on the agenda, we can see some of our efforts making a difference. Thanks to the quick work of our grassroots advocates who contacted their representatives, Rep. Steven LaTourette (R-OH) offered a compromise amendment to the rule that maintains the current prohibition against using gas taxes for other purposes, but will allow transportation programs to be funded below the authorized level. This amendment is supported by incoming Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman John Mica (R-FL). Another (troubling) sign that our message is getting out there and that people are realizing the potential consequences of the proposed rule is that Wall Street is having second thoughts about the profit potential in the infrastructure market. UBS this morning downgraded Vulcan Materials from a “buy” to a “neutral” citing potential political problems as the reason. Without even putting the rule into effect yet, this plan is already having negative consequences on the economy. We must reverse this trend. It’s not too late to act, please contact your member of Congress and let him or her know you oppose this plan. [Send an instant message here. ](http://capwiz.com/asce/home/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Keep%20the%20TRUST%20in%20the%20Trust%20Fund%20%E2%80%93%20UPDATE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Keep%20the%20TRUST%20in%20the%20Trust%20Fund%20%E2%80%93%20UPDATE "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Keep%20the%20TRUST%20in%20the%20Trust%20Fund%20%E2%80%93%20UPDATE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Amendment to Block Trust Fund Diversions Fails](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/amendment-to-block-trust-fund-diversions-fails/) **Published:** January 6, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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organizations, Republicans this week voted to remove guarantees that gas tax revenue be used solely to fund surface transportation projects and that yearly appropriations do not have to be at their authorized levels. While this is is certainly a blow to transportation advocates, it is still unclear if surface transportation funding will be cut. In addition, the Senate did not enact any such provision. ASCE and our coalition partners will be extra vigilant as spending proposals are released in the coming months. Grassroots advocates should be on the lookout for opportunities to let their representatives know that gas tax revenue should only go to surface transportation projects and that infrastructure improvement creates jobs. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Amendment%20to%20Block%20Trust%20Fund%20Diversions%20Fails&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Obama cites ASCE Report Card, calls for Infrastructure Improvement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obama-cites-asce-report-card-calls-for-infrastructure-improvement/) **Published:** January 25, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure took center stage tonight during the President’s State of the Union address. Among the proposals President Obama put forward for creating jobs and growing the economy is improving the nation’s infrastructure. President Obama wants to “win the future” and we can’t do it with a failing infrastructure. Citing the D ASCE gave the nation’s infrastructure in its 2009 [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](http://infrastructurereportcard.org), the President urged Congress to take immediate action to invest in infrastructure. > Our infrastructure used to be the best – but our lead has slipped. South Korean homes now have greater internet access than we do. Countries in Europe and Russia invest more in their roads and railways than we do. China is building faster trains and newer airports. Meanwhile, when our own engineers graded our nation’s infrastructure, they gave us a “D.” In this tough fiscal environment, there is sure to be a tough fight over funding priorities this year, but it’s clear that we we can’t afford to wait any longer to improve the nation’s infrastructure. Despite the upcoming fight, it’s great to hear the cheif executive make infrastructure a priority. Let’s get out there and win the future! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Obama%20cites%20ASCE%20Report%20Card%2C%20calls%20for%20Infrastructure%20Improvement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, state of the union address --- ### [Key Senators Unveil Surface Transportation Principles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/key-senators-unveil-surface-transportation-principles/) **Published:** May 26, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Committee](http://epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Majority.PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=278ec5c4-802a-23ad-46fb-f8c418889173&Region_id=&Issue_id=) is inching closer to releasing a surface transportation authorization bill, which it hopes to mark up by the Fourth of July. This week the big four of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA), James Inhofe (R-OK), Max Baucus (D-MT), and David Vitter (R-LA) released a much anticipated outline for the legislation. The broad outline of the bill shows that funding would be kept at current levels, meaning it would total $339.2 billion over six years. Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) acknowledged that additional revenues would need to be defined in order to move forward with the package, but at this time funding details continue to remain vague. In order to maintain current funding a minimum of an additional $13 billion annually would need to be available in the Highway Trust Fund. Here are the key principles released yesterday: *• Funds programs at current levels to maintain and modernize our critical transportation infrastructure; • Eliminates earmarks; • Consolidates numerous programs to focus resources on key national goals and reduce duplicative and wasteful programs; • Consolidates numerous programs into a more focused freight program that will improve the movement of goods; • Creates a new section called America Fast Forward, which strengthens the TIFIA program to stretch federal dollars further than they have been stretched before; and • Expedites project delivery without sacrificing the environment or the rights of people to be heard.* At a time of budget cuts and talk of a House surface transportation bill only totaling between $210 and $240 billion over six years, the larger sum is encouraging. However, without a way to fund the path forward is complicated. As the House and Senate roll out their differing surface transportation authorization proposals in the upcoming weeks the focus will need to be on creating a concrete way fund a critical national program, which lies at the core of government responsibility. To read ASCE’s policy on the authorization of the nation’s surface transportation program please read our [Blueprint for Success](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Take_Action_-_New/Authorization_of_Surface_Transportation_Program-Revised.pdf) and for further information on the condition of the nation’s infrastructure please read our [2009 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Key%20Senators%20Unveil%20Surface%20Transportation%20Principles&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure report card, senate, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Traffic Congestion is Hazardous to Your Health](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/traffic-congestion-is-hazardous-to-your-health/) **Published:** June 8, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Coalition](http://www.transportationconstructioncoalition.org/), of which ASCE is a member, recently released a study by the Harvard Center for Risk Analysis on the public health cost of traffic congestion. The study, “[The Public Health Costs of Traffic Congestion: A Health Risk Assessment](http://www.transportationconstructioncoalition.org/Docs/TCC-Harvard-Traffic-Congestion-Report-Final.pdf)”, found that emissions resulting from traffic congestion in the largest 83 metropolitan areas resulted in more than 2,200 premature deaths last year. Additionally, the public health cost was at least $18 billion. Emissions from motor vehicles contain pollutants which add to air pollution. One pollutant specifically, PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) is responsible for one third of observed PM2.5 in urban areas as the result of vehicle emissions. While directly emitted from vehicles, PM2.5 can form as nitrogen oxide (NOX) or sulfur dioxide (SO2). Several studies have shown strong evidence that PM2.5 exposure has been associated with premature deaths and other health problems, specifically heart attack, strokes, asthma attacks and other respiratory issues. In the [Center for Disease Control’s 2009 National Vital Statistics Report](http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr59/nvsr59_04.pdf) diseases of the heart was listed as the leading cause of death of death in the United States while, Cerebrovascular diseases (stroke) was fourth. This study is the first attempt to quantify the public health implications of growing traffic congestion. The public health toll was highest in the Los Angeles area, followed by New York/New Jersey, Chicago, and San Francisco/Oakland; areas that rank high in traffic congestion as well. To make matters worse the study forecasts that in 18 metropolitan areas congestion will rise more than 30 percent by 2030. Potential strategies to combat congestion are defined in the report and range from better traffic management through congestion pricing, traffic light synchronization, more efficient response to traffic incidents, and adding new highway and public transit capacity. The report did note that the number of premature deaths is currently declining due to low emission vehicles, but without further action could be on the rise again by 2030. ASCE’s *2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, graded roads a D- citing that collectively, Americans spend 4.2 billion hours stuck in traffic annually. With this significant amount of time stuck in traffic, inhaling noxious fumes, we should pursue improvements to our roads to relieve congestion. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Traffic%20Congestion%20is%20Hazardous%20to%20Your%20Health&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, roads, transportation --- ### [Hotel industry to be hurt by aging infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/hotel-industry-to-be-hurt-by-aging-infrastructure/) **Published:** June 10, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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nation’s aging infrastructure](http://www.meetings-conventions.com/article_ektid41644.aspx) will be the next hurdle the travel and hospitality industries will need to overcome. Tisch was speaking at [New York University International Hospitality Industry Investment Conference](http://www.scps.nyu.edu/areas-of-study/tisch/hospitality-conference/), where he asked fellow hotel industry leaders to band together and create momentum for public-private partnerships that would invest in the nation’s infrastructure. This technique worked for the industry when they pushed for the [Travel Promotion Act](http://www.poweroftravel.org/statistics/keyissues_intl_tpa.htm). Tisch said, “Just as we did with travel promotion, we need to have elected officials understand how vitally important travel and tourism is in terms of job creation and economic development. Through increased conversation, we can point out to officials that our country’s roads and airline system need to be upgraded to ensure that travelers can get where they’re going in safety and comfort.” Tisch pointed out that travelers are frustrated. Regardless of how nice any hotel is, if it is a hassle for them to get there, they are not going to go. He continued by saying, there need to be improvements to airports, rail, highways and the air traffic control system to entice travelers. Tourism plays a vital role in the US economy. In 2010, $758.7 billion was spent by domestic and international travelers in the United States, according to the United States Travel Association. To increase tourism and profits from tourism, it is necessary to improve the nation’s infrastructure. The public-private partnerships Mr. Tisch spoke about fits in with one of the key solutions outlined in ASCE’s [2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/): ***increase and improve infrastructure investment from all stakeholders***. The tourism and hospitality industries are an important part of the nation’s economy and we applaud their support for improving the nation’s infrastructure. It’s time for the other key stakeholders to begin advocating for solutions to the nation’s infrastructure investment deficit. For more information on the economic impact tourism and travel have, check out [Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism](http://www.ustravel.org/sites/default/files/page/2009/09/EconomicImpactofTravelandTourism2010.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Hotel%20industry%20to%20be%20hurt%20by%20aging%20infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, infrastructure --- ### [Failure to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/failure-to-act/) **Published:** July 26, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Failure%20to%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Have you ever wondered how much congestion costs you or what underinvestment in infrastructure really means? As if the nation’s economy isn’t struggling enough, a new study about to be released by ASCE finds the cost of deficient transportation infrastructure to American households and businesses is staggering. Wednesday, July 27th ASCE will release, “*Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure*.” The report builds off of ASCE’s [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and addresses the question, “what if investment does not change?” A key finding of this study is that the increasing deficiency of our nation’s roads, bridges, railways and transit will accelerate the decline in American families’ standard of living. The report delves into this issue deeper by examining — the cost to families and businesses of failing transportation infrastructure — the impact of surface transportation deficiencies on U.S. economic competitiveness — the levels of new investment needed to avoid serious economic consequences The findings of this report is come at a time when Congress ponders deep cuts in transportation infrastructure funding to help reduce the national debt — the opposite of what the nation needs to regain its economic footing and continue to be competitive in world markets. This is the first of four economic studies commissioned by ASCE. Subsequent reports will address water and wastewater, energy transmission, and airports and marine ports. This report will be available on July 27, 2011, and posted on [ASCE’s website](http://www.asce.org/reportcard). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Failure%20to%20Act%20report%20released&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*“We cannot solve the budget deficit without solving the infrastructure deficit.”* – Representative Earl Blumenauer Today, ASCE released [*Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure*](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Report-Card/Economic-Study/). The report found the nation’s deteriorating surface transportation infrastructure will **cost the American economy more than 870,000 jobs, and suppress the growth of the country’s Gross Domestic Product by $897 billion by 2020**. The report, conducted by the Economic Development Research Group of Boston, showed that in 2010, deficiencies in America’s roads, bridges, and transit systems cost American households and businesses more than $129 billion, including approximately $97 billion in vehicle operating costs, $32 billion in delays in travel time, $1.2 billion in safety costs, and $590 million in environmental costs. If investments in surface transportation infrastructure are not made soon, those costs are expected to grow exponentially. Within 10 years, **U.S. businesses would pay an added $430 billion** in transportation costs, household incomes would fall by more than $7,000, and U.S. exports will fall by $28 billion. Productivity across the business sector will also tumble. Those increased costs will cause businesses to **underperform by $240 billion** over the next decade. As a result, **U.S. exports will fall by $28 billion**, including 79 of 93 tradable commodities. America would also lose jobs in high-value sectors as business income goes down. Almost 877,000 jobs would be lost by 2020, primarily in the high-value, professional, business and medical sectors which are vital to America’s knowledge-based service economy. Ultimately, Americans will get paid less. While the economy would lose jobs, those who are able to find work will find their paychecks cut by nearly 30 percent. A lack of investment in transportation infrastructure would hurt American families who would see their **household incomes fall by $60 a month by 2020, while having to spend $30 per month more for goods**. The total cost to families would exact about $10,600 per family between now and 2020, equal to $1,060 per year on household budgets. The report estimates that in order to bring the nation’s surface transportation infrastructure up to tolerable levels, policymakers would need **to invest approximately $1.7 trillion between now and 2020 in the nation’s highways and transit systems.** The U.S. is currently on track to spend a portion of that – $877 billion – during the same timeframe. The infrastructure funding gap equals $846 billion over 9 years or $94 billion per year. Small investments in infrastructure, equal to about 60 percent of what Americans spend on fast food each year, would: - Protect 1.1 million jobs - Save Americans 200 million hours in travel time each year and - Deliver an average of $1,068 to each family, and - Protect $2,600 in GDP for every man, woman and child in the U.S. Check out the [infographics for this report](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Report-Card/What-is-the-Cost-/)! The report, the first of four scheduled by the Society, examined the country’s surface transportation infrastructure. Future reports will examine the state of the nation’s infrastructure as it relates to water and, wastewater delivery and treatment; energy transmission; and airports and marine ports. 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address a Federal Administration (FAA) program which has left thousands of FAA workers out of work. Members of Congress (ironically) left on flights out of Washington, DC for the August recess while FAA remained partially shut down due to lack of progress on the bill’s 21st extension. The Airport and Airway Extension Act originally expired in September of 2007 and has been running off short term extensions ever since, the most recent of which, expired on July 22nd. The extension has been held up due to language in the House passed extension (HR 2553) that would stop subsidies to small airports. The Senate wants a clean extension, but has been unable to move forward. With the two sides unable to agree on a resolution we have been left with a partial FAA shutdown. Since this bill was not extended, 4,000 FAA employees have been furloughed for over a week and dozens of FAA inspectors, imperative to public safety, are being forced into paying to work. These workers are deeply frustrated by the situation Congress has left them in. FAA Administrator has said, “It’s incredibly unfair” and “I’ve been around this business a long time. I’ve never seen anything like this,” Babbitt continued, “And I find it appalling, candidly.” FAA workers are worried that they will not see a paycheck until Congress returns in the beginning of September, which is cause for concern when it is easy for mortgage payments, credit card bills and other loans to add up quickly. Many of these furloughed workers have begun to file for unemployment. This shutdown effects more than FAA employees, the FAA had to halt hundreds of airport construction projects across the nation, which means approximately 70,000construction workers are also out of work. Steve Sandherr, CEO of the Associated General Contractors of America, pointed out that 35,000 support workers will also feel the impact of this shutdown. Factoring in all these additional impacts, Congress has certainly left the economy grounded. Failure to move forward on this bill before the summer recess has put approximately 109,000 employees out of work, which means these workers will have less money to spend in the economy and many of these workers will file for unemployment claims, which will most certainly hurt the nation’s economy during our delicate recovery phase. The hold up of this extension has also created an unintentional tax holiday for airlines which translates to a daily loss of between $25 and $30 million in excise taxes that cannot be collected for the Airport and Airways Trust fund. So far, the government has lost about $360 million. US DOT Secretary Ray LaHood said on his blog, “after nearly 35 years as a staffer in Congress, a House member, and now as Secretary of Transportation, I am dismayed by the persistent acrimony plaguing this simple extension.” In a recent press briefing at the White House, LaHood moved beyond polite politics and said, “End your vacation for a couple days, get off the beach, get out of your mobile homes or whatever you are traveling in, get back to Washington,” and “Come back and pass a bill.” President Obama called on Congress this week to take immediate action in pro forma Congressional sessions and called the situation “a self-inflicted wound that is unnecessary”. However, even with the President calling Congressional leaders in the House and Senate and demanding that the FAA be reopened; neither side has budged, instead each has dug their heels in deeper. As of today, there have been rumblings of a possible deal in Congress to address the FAA standoff, but no details have been released as of yet. ASCE urges Congress to pass a clean a new extension by unanimous consent in a pro forma Congress, so that critical airport infrastructure improvements can move forward and so FAA employees can go back to work. Partisan posturing is negatively affecting the Airport and Airways Trust Fund and putting the nation’s aviation system even further behind. Furthermore, the nation needs a multi-year aviation reauthorization bill as soon as possible, especially since the nation’s aviation grade is a “D” in the 2009 *[Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fact-sheet/aviation).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Leaving%20on%20a%20Jet%20Plane%3A%20The%20Plight%20of%20FAA&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Leaving%20on%20a%20Jet%20Plane%3A%20The%20Plight%20of%20FAA "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Leaving%20on%20a%20Jet%20Plane%3A%20The%20Plight%20of%20FAA&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, transportation --- ### [FAA Update](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/faa-update/) **Published:** August 5, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) announced a bipartisan deal to reopen the FAA and restore the government’s authority to collect airline excise taxes and fund airport construction. The agreement was the result of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood using the waiver authority granted to him by the House-passed extension to waive Essential Air Service (EAS) subsidy cuts for certain communities. The extension passed through unanimous consent Friday morning in the Senate and expected to be signed by the president, ending the two week standoff and reopening the FAA through September 16, 2011. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=FAA%20Update "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=FAA%20Update&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Falling Apart & Falling Behind](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/falling-apart-falling-behind/) **Published:** August 11, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Falling%20Apart%20%26%20Falling%20Behind&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Falling%20Apart%20%26%20Falling%20Behind "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Falling%20Apart%20%26%20Falling%20Behind&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Building America’s Future (BAF) unveiled their own study on transportation infrastructure titled, *[Falling Apart and Falling Behind](http://www.bafuture.org/sites/default/files/Report_0.pdf)*, which highlights how crumbling transportation system makes the nation less competitive. *Falling Apart and Falling Behind* findings fit with the results of ASCE’s recent *[Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure](https://www.asce.org/economicstudy)*. The report has four sections, the introduction which present the current status of our nation’s deficient transportation and the second of which identities why the U.S. has fallen from 1st place to 15th in the World Economic Forum’s infrastructure ranking. BAF’s study believes this is due to a lack of a coherent vision for nation infrastructure as well as, dwindling funding. The third part of the study shows our economic competitors are putting money into their transportation systems, while we are lagging behind. The U.S. spends roughly 1.7% of its GDP on transportation infrastructure while China spends 9% and Canada spends 4%. Other countries are making necessary investments in infrastructure to improve their economies as we hide from our growing infrastructure deficit. The fourth section makes these recommendations for how to deal with our transportation deficit: **1. Develop a national infrastructure strategy for the next decade that makes choices based on economics, not politics.** **2. Re‐orient Washington’s priorities:** - Pass a six‐year transportation bill. - Target federal dollars toward economically strategic freight gateways and corridors. - Re‐focus highway investment on projects of national economic significance. - Invest more in mass transit. - Implement the Next Generation aviation system. - Improve facilities at economically strategic airports. - Invest now in true high‐speed rail in economically strategic corridors. **3. Be both innovative and realistic about how to pay.** - Establish a National Infrastructure Bank. - Develop other ways to pay for road maintenance, including: congestion pricing, tolling, carbon auctions, fees based on miles traveled, Build America Bonds, or reserves built into capital budgets. - Enhance or make permanent some of the innovative financing and funding mechanisms that have recently been put into place including: Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grants and the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA). **4. Promote accountability and innovation.** - Develop “best practices” for public‐private partnerships. - Increase accountability in the federal funding and project delivery process. - Audit the U.S. Department of Transportation. - Encourage and reward local innovation. - Remove obstacles to state and local innovation. These recommendations correspond to the 5 Key Solutions for Infrastructure set out in the 2009 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* <https://infrastructurereportcard.org/> : - Increase Federal Leadership; - Promote Sustainability and Resilience; - Develop National, State, and Regional Infrastructure Plans; - Address Life Cycle Costs and Ongoing Maintenance; and - Increase Investment from All Stakeholders. These solutions have become the cornerstone of ASCE’s efforts to improve the nation’s infrastructure. The Key Solutions offered by ASCE are ambitious and will not be achieved overnight, but Americans are capable of real and positive change. ASCE urges all those who want to continue our tradition of a strong and prosperous nation to begin by maintaining and improving the infrastructure that makes us great. Reports like BAF’s *[Falling Apart and Falling Behind ](http://www.bafuture.org/sites/default/files/Report_0.pdf)and* ASCE’s *[Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure](https://www.asce.org/economicstudy),* show us that while we, as a nation, have been able to carry on relatively well in the world economy, despite our slowly deteriorating infrastructure, we cannot sustain that place in the global economy without improvements to our infrastructure. Without investment we will see more congested highways, more broken bridges and more countries’ economies sprint ahead of ours. Growing infrastructure deficiencies will hurt American families and business in both the long and short term. We need a cohesive, national vision for transportation infrastructure which will be based on the needs of the people and businesses using it, promote sustainability, and improve our economy and quality of life. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Falling%20Apart%20%26%20Falling%20Behind&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation --- ### ["Earthicane" hits East coast](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/earthicane-hits-east-coast/) **Published:** August 31, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure. Thousands of bridges and roads needed to be inspected to make sure that they were safe for use. The graphic shows the grades from the 2009 *[Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*. These natural disasters are a reminder of the importance of infrastructure to our daily lives, and that our infrastructure cannot last forever without improvements and renovations. All of these categories were impacted in some way by these disasters. Schools were shut down, rail, roads, bridges and transit needed to be inspected for damage, flights were cancelled, dams and levees were full to the brim, sewage overflows dumped into waterways. As we recover from these natural disasters, we need to focus on preparing for future disasters by making improvements now to our infrastructure. Infrastructure improvements would assist in protecting lives and property against potential disasters. Congress needs to take action now on the nation’s infrastructure problems, before more lives and property are put at risk due to hazards and corrosion. ASCE and other groups involved in transportation are concerned that without swift congressional action to reauthorize surface transportation funding, jobs will be lost and transportation infrastructure will continue to deteriorate. In ASCE’s *[Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/Failure_to_Act_Economic_Studies/)* economic study we found failure to invest in transportation infrastructure will hurt the US economy and families in the long term. When Congress returns from their summer recess they will only have 11 legislative days until the 18.4 cents per gallon gas tax expires on September 30th, which will leave the highway trust fund without revenue. The recent FAA extension, passed during pro forma sessions held while most members of Congress were not in Washington, is set to expire on September 16th. ASCE hopes Congress will act quickly on these important pieces of legislation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=%E2%80%9CEarthicane%E2%80%9D%20hits%20East%20coast&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, hazards, infrastructure, infrastructure report card --- ### [Senate EPW approves transportation extension](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-epw-approves-transportation-extension/) **Published:** September 8, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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would extend federal surface transportation programs through January 31, 2012. The legislation would be a clean extension of surface transportation programs and allows the Committee time to continue work on the Senate proposed two year surface transportation authorization bill. The current extension will expire on September 30th. ASCE has worked closely with Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Chairman Barbara Boxer to speak with committee members and express the essential nature of another extension. On Wednesday[ ASCE sent a letter ](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Testimony-and-Correspondence/Testimonies,-Statements-and-Letters-to-U-S--Congress/)to Senators who serve on the Environment and Public Work Committee urging the need for another extension, while a long term authorization is worked out. Following the vote this morning, ASCE President Elect Andrew Herrmann, P.E., SECB, F.ASCE, stated “The American Society of Civil Engineers applauds the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee for supporting an essential funding authorization for the nation’s roads and public transportation systems. Today’s vote extending the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users – or “SAFETEA-LU” – for an additional four months ensures that 1.8 million jobs across all 50 states and the District of Columbia will be protected in the near term. “While we are heartened by the bipartisan support for this law, a four-month extension at current funding levels represents the bare minimum of what must be done to address our nation’s crumbling transportation infrastructure. America’s transportation system is the very backbone of our economy. If current funding levels are maintained long term – or if funding levels are cut – America can expect to lose hundreds of thousands of jobs and hundreds of billions of dollars in economic growth over the next ten years. To ensure a prosperous and competitive economic future, ASCE urges Congress to increase long-term investment in the country’s deteriorating infrastructure.” ASCE urges Congress to increase long-term investment in the country’s deteriorating infrastructure and pass a multi-year surface transportation authorization. If the nations does not invest in surface transportation now, in the next ten years our nation’s economy is at risk of losing nearly $900 billion according to the [ASCE surface transportation economic study ](http://www.asce.org/economicstudy/)that was released in July. ASCE will keep all Key Contacts up to date as the latest extension is passed in the Senate and worked on in the House. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20EPW%20approves%20transportation%20extension&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [House approves short-term extensions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-approves-short-term-extensions/) **Published:** September 13, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=House%20approves%20short-term%20extensions "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20approves%20short-term%20extensions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This afternoon the House of Representatives passed legislation which will extend Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and surface transportation programs at current funding levels while Congress continues to work on long-term reauthorizations. The legislation is titled, “Surface and Air Transportation Programs Extension Act of 2011” (H.R. 2887) and will extend the current FAA authorization until January 31st, 2012 and highway, transit, and highway safety programs until March 31st, 2012. The Senate is expected to approve the bill shortly. Following the House vote, ASCE President Elect Andrew Herrmann, P.E., SECB, F.ASCE, released the following statement, “The American Society of Civil Engineers applauds Congress for advancing legislation to fund the nation’s roads, airports, and public transportation systems. Extending the surface transportation and aviation programs at current funding levels ensures that over 1.8 million jobs across all 50 states and the District of Columbia will be protected in the near term. This clean extension gives Congress the opportunity to begin the real work of passing a crucial longer-term bill. While we are heartened by the bipartisan support for this law, an extension at current funding levels represents the bare minimum of what must be done to address our nation’s crumbling transportation infrastructure. America’s transportation system is the very backbone of our economy. If current funding levels are maintained long term – or if funding levels are cut – America can expect to lose hundreds of thousands of jobs and hundreds of billions of dollars in economic growth over the next 10 years. To ensure a prosperous and competitive economic future, ASCE urges Congress to increase long-term investment in the country’s deteriorating infrastructure.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20approves%20short-term%20extensions&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20approves%20short-term%20extensions "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20approves%20short-term%20extensions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Audi's Take on American Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/audis-take-on-american-roads/) **Published:** September 26, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Check out what the folks at [Foreign Policy’s Passport blog](http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2011/09/23/decline_watch_americas_roads_are_so_bad_you_need_a_german_car_to_drive_on_them "Passport Blog") had to say about it. (And if you haven’t seen it, you can [view a clip here](http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2011/09/23/decline_watch_americas_roads_are_so_bad_you_need_a_german_car_to_drive_on_them "Passport Blog") as well.) My take on the new Audi commercial was slightly different – “Yes, let’s spend even more money on avoiding fixing the problems instead of actually fixing them.” Meaning, we know what it will take to improve the nation’s crumbling roads, bridges and transit systems – larger investments by ALL users, which is pretty much everyone who lives and breathes in the United States. You either use the systems directly, or use products and services that wouldn’t be available without transportation systems. See ASCE’s [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/reportcard "Report Card for America's Infrastructure"), especially our 5 Key Solutions. Yet, Audi would rather us invest more in their high-tech car that simply lets you avoid the roads that are all used up and in disrepair, rather than investing in fixing those broken-down roads so they would be useable by all vehicles. Not surprising since their goal is to sell more cars and make more profits. But the fact that this feature is first on Audi’s list of reasons to buy their luxury car above all the others means they must know this resonates with someone. This should be a little alarming to anyone who cares about improving our transportation systems. 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was set to be demolished after several unsuccessful bids to restore it by the historic community of Georgetown. The home of the poet and patriot was eventually leveled, but after many years the Francis Scott Key Bridge was erected to span the Potomac and connect Rosslyn with Washington DC, serving as both a major artery for transportation and commerce as well as a memorial to the father of our national anthem. Now, 80 years after its completion in 1923, the bridge has been deemed structurally deficient by the Department of Transportation and is one of the thousands of decrepit bridges that the American Society of Civil Engineers says has earned America a “C” on the national status of our bridges. More currently, it was also the backdrop of a speech President Obama gave last Wednesday about the need for sustained infrastructure funding and the potential, according to a [recent Forbes](http://www.forbes.com/sites/robertlenzner/2011/10/23/the-u-s-wont-be-able-to-grow-again-until-2016-18/) article, to create 27 million new jobs if adequately invested. In addition, the president also outlined his plan to expedite the flow of cash to shovel-ready projects that will fix our failing infrastructure and put Americans back to work. Having the ability to enjoy a beautiful morning and hear the President of the United States cite ASCE’s work and quote from our studies was a definitive reward, and a reminder that we provide powerful tools and information for our leaders in business and government. If you’d like to keep up on transportation and infrastructure related news and noteworthy items, you can follow us on Facebook and Twitter and ASCE members should join the [Key Contact Program](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts/). As we move closer into the 2012 election year and inevitable spin zone and misinformation festival that will ensue, I’ll end with a quote from Ronald Reagan, which President Obama quoted in his speech yesterday: “The bridges and highways we fail to repair today will have to be rebuilt tomorrow at many times the cost.” The 2.2 trillion dollars ASCE estimates is required over 5 years to update and repair our infrastructure is the fulfillment of this prophecy. The longer we wait to pull our act together and agree, the more we will have to pay to address our infrastructure needs. 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released their long awaited two year surface transportation authorization bill this week. The bill, Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century or MAP-21, maintains current levels of investment plus inflation for fiscal years 2012 and 2013, while making significant reforms to the current program. The full Senate Environment and Public Works Committee will be marking up the legislation tomorrow morning and ASCE sent a letter to Committee Members today urging their support. The reforms included in MAP-21 allow for the nation’s surface transportation program to move forward. Consolidating the 90 programs into 30, creating a National Freight Network Program, expediting project delivery, creating reasonable performance measures, and enhancing the TIFIA program are all steps that will allow for a stronger, more results-oriented transportation program. The legislation also reduces the core highway programs from seven to five, which include three new core programs and two existing programs. The new programs include a National Highway Performance Program, a Transportation Mobility Program, and a National Freight Network Program; while the remaining programs are the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program and the Highway Safety Improvement Program. Other positive reforms include a new title, called “America Fast Forward”, which strengthens the TIFIA program by increasing funding to $1 billion per year; while Title 1 takes steps to improve the existing highway bridge inspection program and authorizes a national tunnel inspection program. The bill also establishes an outcome-driven approach that tracks performance and will hold states and metropolitan planning organizations accountable for improving the conditions and performance of their transportation needs, which ASCE has supported in the past. ASCE is looking forward to working with Members of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee to move the MAP-21 legislation through the 112th Congress. The nation’s surface transportation needs in the 2009 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* ([infrastructurereportcard.org](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)) totaled $1.2 billion, while ASCE’s latest economic study on surface transportation displays the effects that the network has on the nation’s economic competitiveness. For more information on the economic study, *Failure to Act: the Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation*, please visit our website. [www.asce.org/economicstudy](http://www.asce.org/economicstudy) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Committee%20is%20%E2%80%9CMoving%20Ahead%20for%20Progress%E2%80%9D&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Committee%20is%20%E2%80%9CMoving%20Ahead%20for%20Progress%E2%80%9D "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Committee%20is%20%E2%80%9CMoving%20Ahead%20for%20Progress%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** transportation --- ### [Romans and Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/romans-and-roads/) **Published:** December 2, 2011 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Romans%20and%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Since the beginning of our current economic downturn, pundits and armchair historians alike have compared the modern United States to the Roman Empire shortly before its decline. I usually change the channel or flip to the next page when I read such headlines, because to put it plainly – the US is not Rome. I chalk it up to a case of playing on people’s fears to attract viewers or sell books, and go about my day. However, there *are* similarities between the two, and the good news is, unfortunately for Rome, we can learn from their expense. We all know what happened to the great and vast Roman Empire. It came to its height, in part, because of its vast and advanced transportation and infrastructure network. Its army was efficient in many ways, but part of the ferocity that struck fear in the enemies of Rome was the speed at which its fighting force could travel on the roads they built. Trade across the empire was considered reliable and consistent because of the costs the Romans bore in order to ensure a working transportation system. Even today, Roman roads are *still* used by Europeans. In fact, an Aqueduct in the Spanish town of Segovia had been used to provide water until only recently. Alas, Rome fell for a number of unique and specific reasons, but the beginning of the end of the Roman Empire paralleled closely with the rapid decline in its infrastructure. At ASCE we are committed to efficient, sustainable, and smart infrastructure development and work to include and educate lawmakers in our federal, state, and local governments on the imperatives we are facing. As with any issue that impacts the well being of our future, the old adage of “those who forget history are doomed to repeat” can be applied to the many ways in which we seek to advance the quality of our nation’s roads, bridges, dams, etc. We have the distinct benefit of being able to look back into our history and learn from the lessons of previous civilizations. As we begin our efforts to release ASCE’s 2013 Report Card on America’s Infrastructure, we should also ready ourselves to finally tackle the problems facing our nation’s declining network of transportation and infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Releases%20Economic%20Study%20on%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE is releasing a report today identifying the long-term consequences to the nation’s economy from failing to invest today in our aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. The report is the second in a four part series of economic studies assessing the impacts of continued underinvestment in the nation’s infrastructure systems. The report, *[Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Water and Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/economicstudy/)*, answers the question of how the condition of the nation’s deteriorating wastewater and drinking water infrastructure impinges on economic prosperity of American jobs, businesses, and entire sectors of the economy. In other words, how does a D- for water treatment identified ASCE’s 2009 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* affect America’s economic future? The report’s results are sobering. Water infrastructure in the United States is aging, and investments have not kept pace with the escalating costs. In fact, the report finds that by 2020, the US will have fallen $84 billion short of the investments needed in our critical water systems. Even with the increased use of sustainable practices and cost-effective development of other efficiency methods, the growing gap between capital needs to maintain drinking-water and wastewater treatment infrastructure and investments to meet those needs will likely result in unreliable water service and inadequate wastewater treatment. However, if we close that gap and invest in our water infrastructure, we can prevent the following impacts by 2020: - $59 billion in increased costs to households - $147 billion in increased costs to businesses - $416 billion in lost Gross Domestic Product (GDP) - Loss of 700,000 jobs This past Tuesday, ASCE President-Elect, Greg DiLoreto P.E., M.ASCE, and chief executive officer for the publicly owned Tualatin Valley Water District in the Portland, Oregon area, introduced some of the report results to Congress when he [testified before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2011/ASCE%20Testimony_EPW_12%2013%202011_Final.pdf) on the nation’s water infrastructure. After speaking before the Committee, ASCE released the [Executive Summary](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Infrastructure/Failure_to_Act/Water%20Report%20Executive%20Summary.pdf) of the report in order for staff to have additional background on the upcoming full report. Also this week, ASCE has held a series of briefings for water infrastructure stakeholders and Congressional staff. ASCE will lead webinars for all members interested in more details on the report in early 2012. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Releases%20Economic%20Study%20on%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, water infrastructure --- ### [Candidates, Citizens, and the Media Paying Greater Attention to Infrastructure …](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/candidates-citizens-and-the-media-paying-greater-attention-to-infrastructure/) **Published:** January 13, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Candidates%2C%20Citizens%2C%20and%20the%20Media%20Paying%20Greater%20Attention%20to%20Infrastructure%20%E2%80%A6&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") As we start the new year, there has been an increased national focus on campaigns and elections, from the presidential race, to congressional elections and state elections. Whatever the source of news coverage, you’ve likely noticed the saturation of coverage on debates, speeches, town halls, and Sunday morning news hours that revolve around the GOP primaries and caucuses as they take to the task of choosing a nominee. ASCE is a 501(c)(3) organization, and does not support or oppose any candidate for political office. Nevertheless, one thing that has become obvious is that there has been an increasing amount of discussion across the spectrum about the need to invest in our nation’s infrastructure. It seems that the general public, and increasingly the candidates for local and national offices, understand that infrastructure is a pocketbook issue. More citizens are tired of wasting their time (and money) in congested traffic. ASCE’s recent water economic study noted a projected $147 billion in increased costs to businesses by 2020 because of our aging and inadequate water infrastructure. The following headline appeared in a Politico story last week: “Candidates steer clear of transportation before Iowa” appearances (<http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/71028.html>). However, the headline doesn’t tell the full story. While these candidates haven’t been using transportation as a key facet of their platform, they are getting asked about it on the campaign trail. It is this sort of attention from citizens and the news media that encourages current and prospective public officials to bring their plans and ideas about infrastructure into open discussion. The fact that local citizens are routinely raising concerns about infrastructure needs in town hall meetings and other candidate appearances highlights how ASCE’s hard work on raising the discussion of infrastructure nationwide is paying dividends. This focus is also the result of an on-going project by Building America’s Future to engage citizens in New Hampshire and South Carolina to talk about infrastructure. Building America’s Future has created a webpage to compile and aggregate what candidates are saying about infrastructure (<http://www.bafuture.org/GopDecision2012>). It is intended to serve as a one-stop-shop for readers to review public comments made by candidates and elected officials regarding infrastructure investment and reforms. It houses current and past video, audio, and news articles ranging from transportation to broadband, and everything in between. They’ve also compiled an audit of mentions and policy positions from candidate websites, with an emphasis on educating the public on the range of ideas and suggestions proposed for addressing this important topic. Regardless of whether the country is in an election year, ASCE believes that it is essential for the needs of America’s infrastructure to remain at the forefront of the conversation. Investing in transportation and infrastructure, especially when it’s needed so badly, is one of the surest ways to shore up an economy. We hope you’ll use our latest research and infographics at [www.asce.org/failuretoact](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact), as well as other materials available through ASCE and like organizations, to take part in driving informed conversation about infrastructure issues and to make addressing America’s infrastructure challenges a priority issue in the coming year and beyond. ASCE is a 501(c)(3) organization, and does not support or oppose any political candidate, party, or platform. The information provided herein is for general information only, and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party or campaign. An informed decision on a legislator’s performance should be based on all aspects of the individual’s work, such as performance on committees and constituent service, not merely the legislator’s votes on a few select issues. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Candidates%2C%20Citizens%2C%20and%20the%20Media%20Paying%20Greater%20Attention%20to%20Infrastructure%20%E2%80%A6&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Louisiana Section’s PR Campaign Sets a Great Example](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/louisiana-sections-pr-campaign-sets-a-great-example/) **Published:** January 20, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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information would also be of interest to the readers of this blog. It was first posted on Friday, January 20th, 2012* As the Louisiana Section was gearing up to release its first state Report Card this month, members realized that spreading the word of their findings would require an effective public relations campaign. Realizing they lacked the expertise to execute such a campaign, Section members hired a PR consultant, Baton Rouge-based Mark Lambert. The Section also reached out to ASCE’s Communications and Government Relations departments to request training based on ASCE’s [PR University](http://www.asce.org/pruniversity/) seminar. A half-day PR workshop allowed members to work one on one with ASCE staff who traveled to Baton Rouge. As tailored specifically for the Report Card’s release, the workshop identified proper spokespersons and covered potential issues they might have to address. One critical component was the development of strategies to promote the Report Card to elected officials after the planned press conference, in order to keep the momentum going. With what they’d learned during the PR workshop in mind, the Section wisely decided to reschedule the release upon learning that Louisiana’s governor would unveil an education plan on the same date. With that conflict avoided, the consultant and Nedra Davis, the Section’s communications representative, reached out to reporters one day prior to the rescheduled event to make sure the press conference was on their radar. The day of the event, a news release was distributed statewide. ASCE’s Communications staff distributed it to national trade publications, as well as some Washington, D.C.-based reporters who covered [ASCE’s national Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/reportcard/) and our [Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) economic studies. The press conference was a success. Three TV stations and other media covered their announcement. The Louisiana Section’s actions reflect the type and quality of services ASCE can offer to Sections and Branches — whether it is a state Report Card or the designation of a historical civil engineering landmark. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Louisiana%20Section%E2%80%99s%20PR%20Campaign%20Sets%20a%20Great%20Example&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, infrastructure, infrastructure report card --- ### [An ASCE Take on the State of the Union](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/an-asce-take-on-the-state-of-the-union/) **Published:** January 24, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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to discuss the [State of the Union](http://www.whitehouse.gov/state-of-the-union-2012). The first State of the Union was delivered by President George Washington in January 1790 and since then has become a vehicle for a sitting President to outline his legislative agenda for the upcoming year. During [last year’s State of the Union address](http://www.asce.org/PPLContent.aspx?id=12884904292) President Obama discussed the nation’s infrastructure crisis and referenced ASCE’s 2009 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* as a reason why action must be taken to repair and maintain our nation’s roads, bridges, ports, water systems, dams, and rail. While it is not likely that the *Report Card* will be reference two years in a row, ASCE still has a few things that we would like to hear President Obama discuss. ASCE hopes that President Obama calls on Congress to rebuild the infrastructure that once was the envy of the world and spur the innovative imagination that has historically defined this country. It is through a state of the art infrastructure and a growing number of students moving into fields like civil engineering, that America can ensure that the state of the our union will remain strong for years to come. Since last year’s State of the Union address Congress has only been able to extend the surface transportation and FAA programs, instead of pass critical reauthorization bills. Additionally, since last January the National Dam Safety Program has expired and drinking water and wastewater state revolving funds continue to operate off of a 1987 authorization. At a time when the nation needs to create jobs and grow the economy in order to remain competitive, funding the nation’s infrastructure and producing students who excel in math and the sciences can prove to be the key. Therefore, ASCE has defined several legislative priorities. First, we need to rebuild America to compete in the 21st Century. For that reason ASCE calls on President Obama and Congress to: - Pass a multi-year surface transportation bill at level funding. - Finalize a FAA reauthorization in the next few weeks. - Reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program for 5 years. - Begin work on drinking water and wastewater SRF reauthorization bills in 2012. - Take up a new Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) that includes the creation of a national levee safety program. Secondly, we need to support American innovation through several federal government run programs. ASCE would like to see President Obama and Congress: - Pass legislation that would reauthorize the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program. - Reauthorize the existing Math and Science Partnerships program at the Department of Education. - Increase funding annual funding for NIST and NSF programs. Do not forget to also listen to Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels’ Republican response to the State of the Union. ASCE hopes that Governor Daniels also asserts the importance of rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure and promoting innovation. These issues are not Democrat or Republican issues, but instead the key factors which make any country great. ASCE will have a full report about the State of the Union in Friday’s edition of This Week in Washington! 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email")](mailto:?subject=An%20ASCE%20Take%20on%20the%20State%20of%20the%20Union&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, hazards, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [A Promising Week for Transportation Legislation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/574-2/) **Published:** February 2, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Senate try to build momentum to pass much-needed reauthorization bills. The [House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee](http://transportation.house.gov/Default.aspx) unveiled their American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act (H.R. 7) on Tuesday at a press conference outside the U.S. Capitol Building on an unusually warm winter day. The bill would reauthorize surface transportation programs for five years. The reforms included in the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act would consolidate nearly 70 duplicative programs, expedite project delivery, create a set of performance measures, and enhance the TIFIA grant program. ASCE commends the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for advancing legislation to fund surface transportation programs. Read our [letter](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/ASCE%20AEIJ%20Act%20HR%207%20-%20Feb%201%202012.pdf) to Chairman Mica. Meanwhile, the [Senate Environment and Public Works Committee](http://epw.senate.gov/public/?CFID=97201639&CFTOKEN=31731694) is busy working to advance their two-year reauthorization bill. Right now, it is farther along in the process than the House bill, as the Senate Finance Committee identifies potential pay-fors. It seems that both the House and the Senate are hoping to take credit for completing a reauthorization bill during this session, and that is good news for transportation. Another flurry of action surrounded the FAA reauthorization bill. After much deliberation between House and Senate leaders, there appears to be [bipartisan support](http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0112/72252.html) for a four-year FAA funding bill. The bill is expected to be voted on as early as tomorrow. We are at the mark-up today on the House transportation reauthorization bill and will be ready to share additional details on the status of both bills tomorrow. 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promising developments with the House surface transportation reauthorization bill, the story took a startling turn. It was announced that the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee is [proposing to divert $25 billion](http://dc.streetsblog.org/2012/02/02/house-gop-takes-transit-funding-hostage/) in dedicated fuels tax revenues from the Mass Transit Account as part of the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act of 2012 (H.R. 7). This would mean that transit would be forced to compete for general funds each year to receive any federal funding. However, according to the [American Public Transportation Association](http://www.apta.com/), this change represents nearly 50 percent of the federal investment in public transit authorized by the House surface transportation bill. ASCE believes that transit is a critical component of a comprehensive transportation network, and has long supported the principle that 20 percent of the gas tax revenues that have been put in place since 1982 be allocated to a dedicated mass transit account. The new House provision represents a major change to surface transportation funding mechanisms. ASCE submitted a [letter](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20opposition%20to%20Ways%20and%20Means%20Tax%20Title%2002%202%2012-FINAL.pdf) late today to the Ways and Means Committee opposing the provision, and joined a coalition including the Chamber of Commerce and the National League of Cities in signing a separate [letter from Transportation for America](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/HR3864%20coalition%20letter.pdf) voicing similar concerns. In brighter news for transit, today the Senate Banking Committee approved the [Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012.](http://banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Newsroom.PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=3ed03afe-fbd1-901a-ab4e-3c8c916d8994) The bill passed with unanimous bipartisan support and reauthorizes federal transit funding for two years. Among the bill’s reforms is a provision to establish a State of Good Repair program to assist local transit agencies with a backlog of maintenance needs. The bill will now go to the full Senate. As we saw today, stark differences are emerging between the two bills advancing in the House and Senate. The last-minute controversial additions to the House bill delay a process that must move forward quickly to avoid another short-term extension for federal surface transportation funding. 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Senate%20Finance%20Crosses%20Finish%20Line "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Finance%20Crosses%20Finish%20Line&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Senate Finance Committee put the last puzzle piece in place last night when they voted the revenue portions of S. 1813, MAP-21, out of committee. The committee voted 17-6, with four Republicans voting with Democrats, in order to complete the last step before the legislation could reach the Senate floor. Senators will now vote on a motion to proceed, or invoke cloture, at 2pm Thursday. When this motion receives 60 votes, the Senate will be able to begin debate on “Moving Ahead for Progress in the Twenty-First Century”, or MAP-21. Senators must vote on four different portions of the legislation. First up will be the policy portion that was reported from the Environment and Public Works Committee, followed by the transit title from the Banking Committee, then the revenue title that was reported from Finance, and last but not least, safety measures from the Commerce Committee. Many expect the legislation to be on the Senate floor until President’s Day recess, which will begin at the end of next week. The Senate’s action this week means that both chambers will be debating surface transportation legislation on their respective floors next week. After years of inaction on the topic, surface transportation has finally become priority number one in Congress! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Finance%20Crosses%20Finish%20Line&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, transportation --- ### [AWWA Helps Build the Case for Investment in Water Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/awwa-helps-build-the-case-for-investment-in-water-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 28, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Association (AWWA) have just released a new comprehensive report echoing the call for investment in water infrastructure. They found that the[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/WaterDropFlower2.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/WaterDropFlower2.jpg) massive investment needed for buried drinking-water infrastructure in the United States totals more than $1 trillion between now and 2035. The need will double from roughly $13 billion a year today to almost $30 billion (in 2010 dollars) annually by the 2040s, and the cost will be met primarily through higher water bills and local fees, according to the AWWA report. “Buried No Longer: Confronting America’s Water Infrastructure Challenge” is a call to action for utilities, consumers and policy makers and recognizes that the need to replace pipe in the ground “puts a growing stress on communities that will continue to increase for decades to come.” The AWWA report reinforces the ASCE analysis released in December 2011 that concluded that a failure to increase investments in wastewater and drinking-water systems will have a devastating effect on the U.S. economy by 2020. However, the report found that a modest increase in investment can protect $416B in GDP, prevent 700,000 job losses, and avoid personal income losses of $541B. ASCE’s report, *Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Water and Wastewater Treatment Infrastructure*, [can be read here.](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=AWWA%20Helps%20Build%20the%20Case%20for%20Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F02%2FWaterDropFlower2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=AWWA%20Helps%20Build%20the%20Case%20for%20Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=AWWA%20Helps%20Build%20the%20Case%20for%20Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, water infrastructure --- ### [Jobs, Jobs, Jobs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/jobs-jobs-jobs/) **Published:** March 6, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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story](http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/highway-bills-pitched-by-lawmakers-as-job-generators-but-are-they-really-economists-say-no/2012/03/05/gIQAjfJAsR_print.html) yesterday claiming that a surface transportation bill would not necessarily create jobs, but instead shift investments that are already creating jobs to the transportation industry. However, money invested in essential public works can create thousands jobs across the nation, provide for economic growth, and ensure public safety. The nation’s transportation infrastructure system has an annual output of $120 billion in construction work and contributes $244 billion in total economic activity to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). In addition to the economic benefits, the Federal Highway Administration estimates that every $1 billion invested in the nation’s highways supports 27,823 jobs, including 9,537 on-site construction jobs, 4,324 jobs in supplier industries, and 13,962 jobs throughout the rest of the economy. While Standard and Poor’s has stated that highway investment has been shown to stimulate the economy more than any other fiscal policy, with each invested dollar in highway construction generating $1.80 toward the gross domestic product in the short term. In July 2011, ASCE released an economic study that measures the potential impacts to the economy in 2020 and 2040 if the nation maintains current levels of surface transportation investments. The study, *Failure to Act: the Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure*, found that if investments in surface transportation are not made in conjunction with significant policy reforms, families will have a lower standard of living, businesses will be paying more and producing less, and our nation will lose ground in a global economy. Furthermore, the study found that the nation’s deteriorating surface transportation will cost the American economy more than 876,000 jobs, and suppress the growth of the country’s GDP by $897 billion in 2020. The results also estimate that more than 100,900 manufacturing jobs will be lost by 2020 and that ultimately Americans will get paid less. In contrast, a study from the Alliance for American Manufacturing shows that roughly 18,000 new manufacturing jobs are created for every $1 billion in new infrastructure spending. The nation’s economic health is dependent on a strong infrastructure system. By updating, maintaining, and building our roads, bridges, and transit systems, the nation can create jobs in both the public and private sector, while fostering and growing the United States economy. Therefore, the first step toward a modernized transportation system must include passing a multi-year surface transportation authorization. With the Senate slowly working through a series of non-germane amendments to MAP-21, and the House reassessing their next steps after pulling the American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Act, surface transportation programs continue to face an uncertain future. ASCE hopes that the House and Senate can find a solution and pass legislation in the 112th Congress. In the meantime, surface transportation programs will be subjected to another extension, while American jobs hang on the line. 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email")Congress went home last Friday for a two week recess after punting action on surface transportation another 90 days. Surface transportation programs have been running on a series of extensions for 916 days already, and this 9th extension will continue to add up the count until June 30th. Many in the transportation industry have grown extremely concerned that the House will not take action over the next three months and that programs will have to continue to run on extensions until after the November elections. Frustrations are at a boiling point now as state’s deal with the continued uncertainty coming from Capitol Hill, and as Republicans and Democrats continue to disagree on a path forward in the House. Legislators need to hear from their constituents why passing a new multi-year surface transportation bill is critical and why a continued series of extensions is unacceptable. Use the two week House recess to meet with your representative and tell them how the lack of a new surface transportation bill affects the civil engineering profession, your company, and your community. Share your stories with them in either a local town hall or by scheduling a meeting in a district office. While your Representative is home let’s use this opportunity to explain to legislators why a new bill is critical and let’s not allow their time at home to be a way to escape the needs of our nation’s infrastructure. Over the next 90 days ASCE will continue to urge the House of Representatives to take up and pass a bipartisan surface transportation bill, but with your help the message will really hit home! For continuous updates through June 30th, follow us on Twitter ([http://twitter.com/#!/ascegovrel](http://twitter.com/#%21/ascegovrel)) and Facebook ([http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Save-Americas-Infrastructure/213409032028360?sk=wall](http://www.facebook.com/home.php#%21/pages/Save-Americas-Infrastructure/213409032028360?sk=wall)). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Recess%20Is%20Here%2C%20But%20A%20Surface%20Transportation%20Compromise%20Is%20Not%20Near&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, house of representatives, infrastructure, senate, transportation --- ### [ASCE ENERGIZED FOR LATEST ECONOMIC STUDY](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-energized-for-lastest-economic-study/) **Published:** April 26, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Electricity Infrastructure*](https://www.asce.org/electricity_report/). This report assesses the nation’s aging e[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/ASCE_Energy_Infogra1A0F67F.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/ASCE_Energy_Infogra1A0F67F.jpg)nergy facilities and analyzes how accelerating investments in the nation’s transmission, generation, and distribution systems will prevent unnecessary costs to businesses and household budgets by 2020. This report follows two other economic studies that focused on the [nation’s surface transportation systems](https://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) and the nation’s [drinking water and wastewater systems](https://www.asce.org/water_and_wastewater_report/). ASCE’s[ 2009 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave the nation’s energy system a D+. To better explain how the Report Card’s grades affect America’s economic future, ASCE has produced the *Failure to Act* series of economic reports focused on the real effects on our nation’s economic performance if the nation continues to under invest and defer spending on our energy grid. This report concludes that by extending current investment trends for the nation’s energy assets through 2020, the U.S. would be investing $566 billion but that would still be $107 billion below the needed investments. To close this gap, an additional $11 billion in new funding annually is needed to decrease brownouts and blackouts and save American businesses $126 billion, prevent the loss of 529,000 jobs, and save $656 billion in personal income loss. America’s economic competitiveness would also benefit by protecting $96 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and $10 billion in revenue from U.S. exports. ASCE held a discussion with a panel of experts this morning to release the report and discuss the energy infrastructure needs for the nation. The panel was moderated by ASCE President Andrew W. Herrmann P.E., SECB, F.ASCE, and included two former FERC Commissioners, Jim Hoecker and Curt Herbert Jr.; as well as Otto Lynch, who heads the energy section of the ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, and Samir Succar, a scientist at the Natural Resources Defense Council. For more information on ASCE’s Failure to Act series please visit – [**www.asce.org/failuretoact**](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact) **.** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20ENERGIZED%20FOR%20LATEST%20ECONOMIC%20STUDY&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F04%2FASCE_Energy_Infogra1A0F67F.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20ENERGIZED%20FOR%20LATEST%20ECONOMIC%20STUDY "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20ENERGIZED%20FOR%20LATEST%20ECONOMIC%20STUDY&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, energy, infrastructure, infrastructure report card --- ### [Transportation Conference Committee Kicks Off Talks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transportation-conference-committee-meets-kicks-off-talks/) **Published:** May 9, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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yesterday, with Senate and House conferees taking the opportunity to give opening remarks on what is anticipated to be one of the final hurdles in passing a transportation bill. ![](http://dc.streetsblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/boxerconf.jpg) Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), author of MAP-21 (S. 1813) and chair of the conference committee, began the meeting with a statement highlighting the bipartisan Senate bill. Sen. Boxer stressed that “failure is not an option” and implored members to act quickly in hashing out compromise legislation, setting a target of early June for a deal to be struck. She was followed by Representative John Mica (R-FL), selected as vice-chair of the conference, who also stressed the economic importance of a bill. The issues of Keystone XL, funding and financing options, an amendment stripping EPA of regulatory power over coal ash, and House language streamlining environmental policy still remained the most important issues needing compromise. However, it did appear during many of the remarks there existed support for the RESTORE Act, Senate TIFIA language, as well as the RAMP Act. The RESTORE Act would direct fines from oil companies responsible for the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill to Gulf Coast restoration and clean-up efforts, and the RAMP Act would ensure revenue in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund be dedicated and used solely for harbor maintenance programs. The general feeling throughout the opening statements was far less acrimonious than the House Transportation and Infrastructure markup of H.R. 7, which saw lawmakers bicker over amendments into the early hours of the morning this past February. Throughout the opening statements, the majority of lawmakers around the table stressed how critical it was to work quickly to get this done and how vital a bill is to job creation, with both sides stressing the need to work for the American people. One memorable line came from Representative Nick Rahall, the ranking minority member on the House T&I committee – “we cannot let hard heads get in the way of hard hats”. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Transportation%20Conference%20Committee%20Kicks%20Off%20Talks&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, highway trust fund, house of representatives, infrastructure, senate, transportation --- ### [SURFACE TRANSPORTATION BILL STILL UNCERTAIN](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/surface-transportation-bill-still-uncertain/) **Published:** June 1, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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transportation funding levels, only to have that motion withdrawn late Thursday afternoon on a[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/06/TCCad.jpg)](http://www.transportationconstructioncoalition.org/) technical issue. The motion from Representative Paul Broun (R-GA) would have tied Highway Trust Fund expenditures to estimated gas tax revenues, essentially cutting the nation’s surface transportation program by an estimated thirty percent. By asking that the conference report not exceed $37.9 billion in federal spending in 2012 and $37.5 billion in 2013, there would be approximately $17 billion less in spending than the Senate’s two-year bill and $15 billion less than H.R. 7. ASCE strongly opposed the motion and [sent a letter](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Letter%20on%20Broun%20Motion%20to%20Instruct%20Conferees.pdf?elqTrack=true "Read the letter here") to all Members of the House of Representative urging them to vote against the measure. It is uncertain when Representative Broun will seek a different time to bring up his motion again, although it is expected he will reintroduce it sometime mid to late next week. Meanwhile, conference committee talks are beginning to wear down. Negotiations on the funding title for a new program have yet to commence, while disagreements over streamlining provisions have threatened talks. Committee Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) continues to work toward passing a bill by June 30th, but has urged organizations to continue to push House Republicans on the importance of passing a bill now, as opposed to another extension. The Transportation Construction Coalition, of which ASCE is a member, held its annual legislative fly-in this week. Over 400 representatives of the engineering and construction industry, including some ASCE members and staff, hit Capitol Hill on Thursday to urge their legislators to support a surface transportation bill. Before members went on Congressional visits they heard from Conference Committee Vice-Chairman John Mica (R-FL), House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Nick Rahall (D-WV), and staff from the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. Key Contacts on Thursday got a first-hand briefing on transportation authorization from senior Senate staff actively involved in the current conference committee negotiations. Bettina Poirier, staff director for the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and David Napoliello, senior policy advisor for the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, briefed Key Contacts during a conference call Thursday afternoon, saying that staff and the conferees understand that maintaining the status quo in the form of further extensions of SAFETEA-LU is simply no longer acceptable. They continue to work toward developing a conference report before the current extension runs out June 30, and they remain optimistic that this can happen. 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Urban Development appropriations bill, which passed by voice vote. The bill’s overall total of $51.6 billion in discretionary spending would be $3.9 billion less than fiscal 2012 and $1.9 billion less than the president’s request, however due to the current economic climate the cuts are not too bad. Overall, the House was kind to transportation programs, maintaining investment for highways and making minor increases for the FAA and Amtrak. One of the bigger cuts in the House bill is the zeroing out of the discretionary TIGER program, which provides grants for infrastructure projects that have national or regional significance. The full spending breakdown can be seen here: - **Highways** – Provides $39.1 billion from the Highway Trust Fund to be spent, the same level as last year and $2.7 billion below the President’s request. - **Air** – The FAA would receive $12.6 billion, $91 million above last year’s level. The bill also provides nearly $1 billion for NextGen and rejects the Administration’s proposal for new aviation fees. - **Rail** – The Federal Railroad Administration is funded with $2 billion, which is $384 million above last year’s level and $716 million below the President’s request. This funding includes $1.8 billion for Amtrak, to be primarily used for capital improvements. - **Transit** – The Federal Transit Administration would receive $2 billion, which is $181 million below last year’s level and $546 million below the President’s request. The bill would also provide $1.8 billion for the “New Starts” program. - **Maritime** – The bill includes $338 million for the Maritime Administration, a decline of $12 million from last year and $7 million below the President’s request. - **Safety** – The bill includes $776 million for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a decrease of $23.8 million from last year; $551 million for the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, a decrease of $2.6 million from last year; and $177 million for the Pipeline and Hazardous Safety Administration, an increase of $4 million from last year. The bill will likely be considered on the House floor next week, but knowing Congress things could change! 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Guts%20EPA%20Spending%20on%20Infrastructure%20to%20Curtail%20Regulations&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A House subcommittee has approved a [spending](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Government_spending "Government spending") bill for the [Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)](http://www.epa.gov "United States Environmental Protection Agency") for fiscal year 2013 that seeks to drastically cut back on new federal environmental rules through the simple expedient of imposing major budget cuts on the agency. In years past House [Republicans](http://www.gop.com/ "Republican Party (United States)") used prohibitory language in appropriations acts to bar the EPA from spending money to write or carry out certain rules opposed by business interests. Far easier now to simply eliminate funding for large parts of the agency’s programs. The $28 billion appropriations bill that was marked up in subcommittee on Wednesday provides only $7 billion for the EPA in [FY](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiscal_year "Fiscal year") 2013. This represents a 17 percent cut that would bring environmental funding to a level below the FY 1998 total. The bill caps the number of agency employees at their lowest level since 1992. “The bill reins in funding and out-of-control regulation at the EPA and reduces overall spending for the third year in a row,” according to a press release from Rep. [Mike Simpson](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Simpson "Mike Simpson") (R-ID), chair of the Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee. The bill reduces the EPA’s [Clean Water State Revolving Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clean_Water_State_Revolving_Fund "Clean Water State Revolving Fund") for wastewater infrastructure by $778 million, or more than half from FY 2012, to $689 million, and cuts the [Drinking Water State Revolving Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safe_Drinking_Water_Act "Safe Drinking Water Act") by $89 million to $829 million. “Despite the hyperbole of some of my Republican friends, EPA programs and regulations did not cause this recession, and tying the hands of this important agency certainly won’t get us out — that idea is as fictional as recent reports of EPA drones,” said Rep. [Norm Dicks](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norman_D._Dicks "Norman D. Dicks") (D-WA), senior [Democrat](http://www.democrats.org/ "Democratic Party (United States)") on the [House Appropriations Committee](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_House_Committee_on_Appropriations "United States House Committee on Appropriations"). The bill adopts a new tack by House Republicans, who added numerous amendments to the FY 2012 act that were designed to roll back or limit EPA regulation. The Republican leadership had to pull the FY 2012 bill last year amid a surge of amendments. Republicans were forced to put the EPA spending bill in an omnibus appropriations measure that largely spared the agency from deep cuts. 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**Published:** July 2, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Transportation%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D5d24f8c3-56c5-4d2c-b830-64e670e256f2&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Transportation%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*UPDATE: The [House of Representatives](http://www.house.gov/ "United States House of Representatives") passed the transportation conference report by a vote of 373-52 Friday afternoon. The Senate passed the bill 74-19.* The House and Senate worked vigorously all week to come to a [compromise surface transportation conference report](http://images.politico.com/global/2012/06/preliminary_summary_of_conference_report.html) on Wednesday night. The announcement of a deal came over 1,000 days after the last surface transportation bill, [SAFETEA-LU](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safe%2C_Accountable%2C_Flexible%2C_Efficient_Transportation_Equity_Act%3A_A_Legacy_for_Users "Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users"), expired in September 2009. The conference deal, which runs through the end of September 2014, will keep transportation spending at current levels and extend the authority to collect gasoline taxes through September 2016. The deal will be voted on today, first by the Senate, with the House following shortly thereafter. The bill is expected to pass through both chambers and be signed by the President before the 9th extension to surface transportation programs expires on Saturday. The House and Senate agreement on Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century (MAP-21), will set highway spending at $39.7 billion in fiscal 2013 and $40.3 billion in fiscal 2014. Mass transit formula grants would be set at $8.5 billion in fiscal 2013 and $8.6 billion in fiscal 2014. Additional revenues will mostly come from collecting revenues from changes to federal pensions and moving money from the Leaking Underground Storage Tank trust fund into the [Highway Trust Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway_Trust_Fund "Highway Trust Fund"). The new bill makes significant programmatic reforms, many of which [ASCE](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") has been long supported. The deal consolidates federal programs in an attempt to make them more competitive and streamlines the environmental review process to speed project delivery. The bill also has a focus on performance standards for highway and bridge maintenance, and ties some funding to whether states meet performance goals laid out in the bill. The TIFIA grant program will see a substantial increase to $750 million in 2013 and $1 billion in 2014, a move which ASCE strongly advocated for over the past few months. The TIFIA program will also now operate on a first-come, first served basis, removing evaluation criteria. Next, the Transportation Enhancements program will also see some changes. First, the program will now be called the Transportation Alternative program and each state will set-aside 2 percent of the amount apportioned for their enhancement activities. However, if these funds are not allocated within the state, the state may transfer up to 50% of those funds to other programs. MAP-21 also includes the RESTORE Act language, which would establish the [Gulf Coast](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gulf_Coast_of_the_United_States "Gulf Coast of the United States") Restoration [Trust Fund](http://research.lawyers.com/glossary/inter-vivos-trust.html?WT.mc_id=Zemanta_InText&cid=con:103 "Inter vivos trust"). The trust fund would contain 80% of all penalties paid from parties responsible for the gulf coast oil spill in order to pay for the extensive clean-up efforts. ASCE, through the Water Resources Coalition has been supportive of the inclusion of the RESTORE Act language. Additionally, MAP-21 expands the ability of states to place tolls on any [Federal-aid](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Administration_of_federal_assistance_in_the_United_States "Administration of federal assistance in the United States") facility for any new capacity and removes the Bingaman amendment, which ASCE opposed, that would have reduced highway [formula funds](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Formula_funds "Formula funds") for states that sell or lease toll facilities to private companies. Finally, turning to research, the bill provides $400 million for transportation research and authorizes 35 competitive grants to be provided annually for University Transportation Centers, a move which ASCE supported. We’re happy to see that [Congress](http://www.house.gov/ "United States Congress") came to a bipartisan agreement on surface transportation programs and worked to get a bill done by June 30th. However, it must be noted that this is just a critical first step to raising the grades for our nation’s surface [transportation system](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transport_network "Transport network"). As ASCE has documented, we are not investing nearly enough to bring our roads, bridges, and transit systems to an acceptable condition that will serve our economy in the long-run. Therefore, ASCE will continue to work with Congress on a long-term, reliable funding source to meet these goals. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=State%20Legislators%20Ready%20to%20Tackle%20Transportation&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D75435ca1-9e02-42a8-8694-d4092b880a98&p%5Btitle%5D=State%20Legislators%20Ready%20to%20Tackle%20Transportation "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Last week [ASCE](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") staff had the opportunity to interact with a small group of [state legislators](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_legislature_%28United_States%29 "State legislature (United States)") from around the country who have distinguished themselves as leaders on transportation issues. Through a partnership with the [Council of State Governments (CSG)](http://www.csg.org/), ASCE helped to host a Transportation Policy Academy in [Washington, DC](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.8951111111,-77.0366666667&spn=0.1,0.1&q=38.8951111111,-77.0366666667%20(Washington%2C%20D.C.)&t=h "Washington, D.C.") to talk about the challenges and possible solutions to funding infrastructure at the state level. What we learned is that these state legislators need our help. Most of the legislators participating in the three-day long meeting serve as the chairman of one of the Transportation Committees in their legislature, so they are on the front lines in facing the challenge of funding the improvements needed in their state. They are fully aware of the problems ASCE has been highlighting in our recent [Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/economicstudy/) series, but what they expressed to us is how helpful these reports are in demonstrating to their own constituents the need for infrastructure investment. A prominent [legislator](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legislator "Legislator") from [Connecticut](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=41.6,-72.7&spn=1.0,1.0&q=41.6,-72.7%20(Connecticut)&t=h "Connecticut") said, “We need to convince our constituents that there is a need for our state government to increase its investment in infrastructure. These reports can help us do that.” A legislator from Georgia who has been a leader on the effort there to put a [1% sales tax on the ballot](http://www.connectgeorgia2012.com/moreinfo.php) this summer to fund transportation projects said, “In my district, we need to realize that revenue is necessary to pay for new projects and maintenance of our current system.” During the meeting, lawmakers shared information about what they’ve been doing in their respective states on transportation issues, but they also heard from policy experts and advocates from several groups including ASCE. Their agenda also included a visit to several ongoing projects in [Northern Virginia](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia "Northern Virginia") hosted by the [Virginia Department of Transportation](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=37.5377777778,-77.43&spn=0.01,0.01&q=37.5377777778,-77.43%20(Virginia%20Department%20of%20Transportation)&t=h "Virginia Department of Transportation"), and meetings with [Members of Congress](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Member_of_Congress "Member of Congress") from their respective states. Legislators attended the meeting from Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Louisiana, Maine, Ohio, and Washington. 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transportation bill, MAP-21 (HR 4348), last Friday at the [White House](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.8976694444,-77.03655&spn=0.01,0.01&q=38.8976694444,-77.03655%20(White%20House)&t=h "White House"). The President’s signature comes 1,010 days after the last surface transportation bill, [SAFETEA-LU](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safe%2C_Accountable%2C_Flexible%2C_Efficient_Transportation_Equity_Act%3A_A_Legacy_for_Users "Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users"), expired. The new $118 billion, 27 month piece of [legislation](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Legislation "Legislation") will fund programs until September 2014. ASCE President Andrew Herrmann, P.E., SECB, F.ASCE, was in attendance for this afternoon’s [signing ceremony](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Signing_ceremony "Signing ceremony"). Hundreds of [ASCE Key Contacts](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts/?elqTrack=true) assisted in this effort by responding to Key Alerts asking them to call, email or make visits with their [elected officials](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Official "Official") to let them know how vital this legislation is to the nation’s infrastructure, and to the livelihoods of all [Americans](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.8833333333,-77.0166666667&spn=10.0,10.0&q=38.8833333333,-77.0166666667%20(United%20States)&t=h "United States"). Thanks to all those who helped! For more information on the legislation and to see how your [Senators](http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm "Senators") and [Representative](http://www.house.gov/ "United States House of Representatives") voted on the final surface transportation bill please visit our [“Transportation in Action” page](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Transportation-In-Action/). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Transportation%20Bill%20Signed%20Into%20Law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, house of representatives, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [ASCE Needs Your Help — Give Us Your “Success Stories”!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-needs-your-help-give-us-your-success-stories/) **Published:** July 13, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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currently developing the *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* and we need your help in identifying “Success Stories” – examples of how public and private organizations have addressed specific infrastructure problems with some creativity and determination. While the 2009 Report Card showed there is much work to be done to raise the grades, we know there are countless examples of projects and programs from across the country that demonstrate progress is being made. It is these “Success Stories” that we need your help in telling. We are trying to identify a diverse set of “Success Stories” for each of our report card categories and from each of the 50 states. Do you know of any projects that integrate at least one of these criteria? - Increased federal leadership - Promotion of sustainability and resilience - Develop federal, regional, and state infrastructure plans - Address life-cycle costs and ongoing maintenance - Increase and improve infrastructure investment from all stakeholders [Please use this online form to let us know about Success Stories](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/reportcard/success-story-form/) that we should include in the *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* Feel free to include photos or web links with your submission. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact ASCE at <govwash@asce.org>, or just comment on this post. Thanks! adam [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Needs%20Your%20Help%20%E2%80%94%20Give%20Us%20Your%20%E2%80%9CSuccess%20Stories%E2%80%9D%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Needs%20Your%20Help%20%E2%80%94%20Give%20Us%20Your%20%E2%80%9CSuccess%20Stories%E2%80%9D%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Needs%20Your%20Help%20%E2%80%94%20Give%20Us%20Your%20%E2%80%9CSuccess%20Stories%E2%80%9D%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, economics, energy, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation --- ### [Congressional Budget Office Examines the Proposed National Infrastructure Bank](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressional-budget-office-examines-the-proposed-national-infrastructure-bank/) **Published:** July 16, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Budget%20Office%20Examines%20the%20Proposed%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/4688361239_eb8939f946.jpg)](http://www.flickr.com/photos/talkradionews/4688361239/)Senator John Kerry author of the BUILD Act and Infrastructure Bank proponent Courtesy FlickrTalk Radio News ServiceThe Congressional Budget Office released a report last week analyzing a [national transportation infrastructure bank](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Infrastructure_Reinvestment_Bank), which is a proposal that many on Capitol Hill would like to use in order to boost funding and improve the selection process for projects. The report finds that an infrastructure bank could play a limited role in enhancing investment in surface transportation projects, but that is could create a selection process that would overcome certain barriers to the financing of multi-regional or multimodal projects. The bank would provide financing through loans, and projects would have to include tolls, taxes or other dedicated revenue streams when repaying them. Private and NGO partners, as well as state and local entities, could apply. While this would assist with funding, the report said, only a select number of projects could qualify. [Read more here](http://1.usa.gov/Nkvf3p?elqTrack=true). Senator Kerry (D-MA) introduced the BUILD Act, S. 652, last year, which is a broader infrastructure bank focusing also on water and energy projects. ASCE has endorsed the legislation. In the House Representative DeLauro (D-CT) has also introduced a version of the infrastructure bank with H.R. 402, the National Infrastructure Development Act. ASCE [Policy Statement 532](http://www.asce.org/Public-Policies-and-Priorities/Public-Policy-Statements/Policy-Statement-532---National-Infrastructure-Bank/?elqTrack=true) supports the creation and operation of a national infrastructure bank that can fund transportation, environment, energy, and telecommunications projects of significance. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Congressional%20Budget%20Office%20Examines%20the%20Proposed%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Budget%20Office%20Examines%20the%20Proposed%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congressional budget office, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Dam Safety Bill Introduced in Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dam-safety-bill-introduced-in-senate/) **Published:** July 19, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Dam%20Safety%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Dam%20Safety%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Akaka (D-HI), John Boozman (R-AR), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Mike Crapo (R-ID) introduced the Dam Safety Act of 2012 on June 29. The last bill authorizing spending for the national dam safety program expired on September 30, 2011. The National Dam Safety Program is administered by the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Under FEMA’s leadership, the National Dam Safety Program is dedicated to protecting the lives of American citizens and their property from the risks associated with the development, operation, and maintenance of America’s dams. The new Senate bill will reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program for Fiscal Years 2012 through 2016 at $13.9 million per year including: - $9.2 million per year split among the states, based on the relative number of dams per state, to make improvements in programs identified in the National Dam Safety Program Act; - $1.45 million per year in research funds to identify more effective techniques to assess, construct, and monitor dams; - $1 million per year for a nationwide public awareness and outreach program; - $750,000 per year in training assistance to state engineers; and - $500,000 per year for the National Inventory of Dams. ASCE has been a long time advocate for the National Dam Safety Program. Our nation’s 85,000 dams have the average age of just over 51 years, while nearly 14,000 dams are classified as high hazard. In the 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure the nation’s dams received a grade of D and it was estimated that over $12 billion would be needed to bring our dams into a state of good repair. ASCE is working closely with House and Senate offices to introduce a Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act, which would provide states funding to repair, replace, or rehabilitate high hazard, non-federal dams. The proposed legislation would provide $200 million over five years to fix those dams in the greatest need. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Dam%20Safety%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, infrastructure report card --- ### [Obama Announces Major Port Projects to Be Expedited](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obama-announces-major-port-projects-to-be-expedited/) **Published:** July 23, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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initiative, seven nationally and regionally significant infrastructure projects will be expedited to help modernize and expand five major ports in the United States, including the [Port of Jacksonville](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Jacksonville "Port of Jacksonville"), the [Port of Miami](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Miami "Port of Miami"), the [Port of Savannah](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_Savannah "Port of Savannah"), the [Port of New York and New Jersey](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Port_of_New_York_and_New_Jersey "Port of New York and New Jersey"), and the Port of Charleston. “I am excited to hear the Administration is taking steps to speed up improvements of some of America’s most important infrastructure and our lifeline to international trade – our ports,” said [ASCE](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Society_of_Civil_Engineers "American Society of Civil Engineers") President Andrew W. Herrmann, P.E. In March, President Obama signed an Executive Order to charge the Office of Management and Budget with making the permitting and review process for infrastructure projects more efficient and effective. These are the first seven of the initial 43 projects that will be expedited by the Executive Order – additional expedited infrastructure projects will be announced in the coming weeks. The Obama Administration also announced the establishment of a White House-led [Task Force](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Task_force "Task force") that will consist of senior officials from various White House offices, the [Army Corps of Engineers](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Army_Corps_of_Engineers "United States Army Corps of Engineers"), and the Departments of Transportation, Commerce, Homeland Security, and the Treasury. The Task Force will develop a Federal strategy and coordinated decision-making principles that focus on the economic return of investments into coastal ports and related infrastructure to support the movement of commerce throughout the Nation. For more information on the port projects selected check out the [White House site](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/07/19/we-can-t-wait-obama-administration-announces-5-major-port-projects-be-ex) To read President Herrmann’s full statement, [go to ASCE’s website ](http://www.asce.org/Press-Releases/2012/ASCE-Statement-on-President-Obama-s-Ports-Infrastructure-Announcement/) [![Enhanced by Zemanta](http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=e38b0d55-336c-438e-b509-605f7de1c9e9)](http://www.zemanta.com/?px "Enhanced by Zemanta") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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ports --- ### [Transportation Referenda On Next Week’s Ballot in Georgia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transportation-referenda-on-next-weeks-ballot-in-georgia/) **Published:** July 25, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Transportation%20Referenda%20On%20Next%20Week%E2%80%99s%20Ballot%20in%20Georgia&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2012%2F07%2Fmap41.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Transportation%20Referenda%20On%20Next%20Week%E2%80%99s%20Ballot%20in%20Georgia "Share on 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[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/map41.png)](http://www.t-splost.com/)Georgias 12 Economic Development Regions Click on the map to go to the T SPLOST websiteEach of Georgia’s 12 economic development regions will separately vote on whether to impose a new 10-year Transportation Special Purpose Local Option [Sales Tax](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sales_tax "Sales tax") (T-[SPLOST](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special-purpose_local-option_sales_tax "Special-purpose local-option sales tax")). These referenda will offer Georgians an opportunity to vote for a one percent regional sales tax to fund transportation improvements in every corner of the state. If approved July 31, 2012, the sales tax would generate an estimated $18.67 billion over a 10-year period, which represents a significant investment in Georgia’s transportation infrastructure. If approved, local governments in each region would receive 25 percent of the revenues (15 percent in metro Atlanta) from the sales tax to spend at their discretion on transportation projects. Using a pre-determined formula, the money would be divided among all local governments in that particular region to fund projects such as bike lanes, pedestrian bridges or sidewalks or safety, transit and road improvements. Local governments would control their share of these discretionary funds, and the project list has not been finalized. ASCE recommends that adequate funding for operating, maintaining, and improving the nation’s transportation system be provided by a comprehensive program with dedicated elements at the federal, state, and local levels, including state and local sales taxes. ([ASCE Policy Statement 382 – Transportation Funding](http://www.asce.org/Public-Policies-and-Priorities/Public-Policy-Statements/Policy-Statement-382---Transportation-Funding/)) The Georgia Section of ASCE has been advocating in favor of these referenda. If you live in Georgia please VOTE in general, and please VOTE in support of T-SPLOST. For more information from the Georgia Section on [T-SPLOST visit their website](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-transportation-referenda/): To see the condition of Georgia’s infrastructure check out the [2009 ASCE Georgia Infrastructure Report Card’s website](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Report%20Shows%20Mississippi%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs%20a%20Different%20Approach&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![](/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/MS-RC-Cover-Clip.jpg)](http://msasce.org/reportcard.pdf)2012 Mississippi Infrastructure Report CardLast week, the Mississippi Section Report Card for the state’s infrastructure was featured in a front-page article in the Jackson Courier-Journal and Acey Roberts, P.E., M.ASCE, chair of the Report Card Committee, was interviewed on the Marshall Ramsey show, heard in Jackson on WFMN-FM. Roberts talked about Report Card which gave grades of D for Dams, D, C- for Drinking Water, C for Roads and Bridges, and C for Wastewater, C. Although the grades for Mississippi are either equal to or slightly higher than the nation’s grades, he said current issues must be addressed. “The current path regarding maintenance and funding for our transportation and water systems in Mississippi must be reversed, said Roberts. “We hope that this report will be the first step toward understanding the issues and finding real solutions to bridge the funding gap. Industry experts from public agencies, private firms and non-profit groups led this Report Card effort. To arrive at grades for each area of infrastructure, civil engineering expert volunteers examined the physical condition, capacity and future need, and studied funding sources and trends that impact maintenance and upgrades. The first report of its kind in Mississippi, ASCE’s Mississippi Section released the Report Card at the Mississippi State Capitol Building. To view the 2012 Mississippi Infrastructure Report Card, visit the [ASCE Mississippi Section website](http://msasce.org). View [Clarion-Ledger story](http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120725/NEWS01/207250329/Water-quality-good-surprised-Aging-infrastructure-won-t-keep-way). [Listen to an archive](http://www.supertalk.fm/Sid-Salter/5043194) of the Marshall Ramsey radio show from July 26. 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wastewater, water infrastructure --- ### [Georgia T-SPLOST Referenda – What Happened?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/georgia-t-splost-referenda-what-happened/) **Published:** August 1, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Georgia%20T-SPLOST%20Referenda%20%E2%80%93%20What%20Happened%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Georgia%20T-SPLOST%20Referenda%20%E2%80%93%20What%20Happened%3F "Share on 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The referenda offered Georgians an opportunity to vote for a one percent regional sales tax to fund transportation improvements in every corner of the state. If it had been approved across all twelve regions, the sales tax would have generated an estimated $18.67 billion over a 10-year period, which represents a significant investment in Georgia’s transportation infrastructure. Unfortunately, out of the twelve economic development regions, only three, Regions 7, 8 and 9, the Central Savannah River, River Valley and Heart of Georgia regions respectively, passed the referendum. The good news is that these three regions represent an estimated $1.83 billion dollar investment in infrastructure. The bad news is the other nine regions, including the metro Atlanta region, all rejected the plan, leaving a potential $16.8 billion of infrastructure projects unrealized. [Governor Nathan Deal’s office told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution](http://www.ajc.com/news/transportation-referendum/voters-reject-transportation-tax-1488552.html) he would now take a central role in transportation planning for the state’s metro areas, and he would not support a sequel to Tuesday’s referendum. Only time will tell the future of transportation in Georgia. 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Repair Act of 2012, before Congress left for the August work period. The legislation would establish a program within the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to fund dam rehabilitation and repairs and would award grants for assistance to publicly-owned deficient dams. The program would be a part of the National Dam Safety Program. To address dam deficiencies, the Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act would provide $200 million over five years for the repair, rehabilitation, and removal of publicly owned dams. The proposed legislation would distribute funds to state dam safety agencies based on the number of high-hazard, publicly-owned non-federal dams in the state, with the federal government’s share of any grant not exceeding 65 percent of the total cost of repairs. In the 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure the nation’s 85,000 dams received a grade of “D” and they averaged over 51 years old. ASCE has been working for several Congress’ to see the Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act enacted. Congress should address the estimated $12 billion in needed repairs for the nation’s most critical high-hazard dams. As development downstream from dams continues, more and more dams that were originally built to low or significant hazard levels are now suddenly classified as high hazard. Our nation needs to be making these critical investments into both our federal dam safety program and on a state, and local level, in order to guarantee public safety below dams. 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State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit to talk about policies that work in the real world. State legislators are literally hunting for ideas they can bring home to their communities to help them bolster their local economies and create jobs. Among the key sessions, was a dynamic panel on creating jobs through infrastructure investment. Focused on the reality that construction costs are rising yet states needs to borrow at affordable rates, this session’s speakers discussed both the polices that work and the next wave of potential investments that legislators can focus on now. To start the panel off, ASCE President Andrew Herrmann P.E., M.ASCE began the discussion by highlighting the clear case for investing today using the [Failure to Act economic studies](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) which show the high costs to the US, jobs, and businesses if necessary infrastructure investments are postponed. [Deb Miller](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deb_Miller "Deb Miller"), former Secretary of Transportation, Kansas, now with [Cambridge Systematics](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cambridge_Systematics "Cambridge Systematics"), Inc., and Illinois Senate President [John J. Cullerton](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Cullerton "John Cullerton") highlighted how accountability and clear expectations allowed several key investments to move forward in their states and how these projects supported local businesses and the state’s economic goals. Geoffrey Buswick, Standard & Poor’s, touched on the financing options available and the reality that borrowing options may change as the economy recovers. Through our participation in meetings like this, ASCE is able to interact with leading policymakers from around the country, and particularly those legislators who have been leaders in their states on infrastructure issues. As sates continue to face fiscal challenges it’s encouraging that state legislators like those gathered in Chicago continue to seek solutions to the infrastructure deficit. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Budget%20Office%20Shows%20Concern%20for%20HTF&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) predicts both accounts of the Highway Trust Fund will go broke sometime in FY 2015 unless Congress acts to shore up the fund that pays for surface transportation projects. According to a CBO chart obtained, the highway account will end FY 2012 with $8.7 billion and the transit account with $4.7 billion. The transit account could run dry in late 2014. ASCE has long supported an increase in the gas tax to provide additional revenues for investment in surface transportation systems, a move that has been supported by many economists as consistent with reducing the federal budget deficit. However, the political climate in Washington has not allowed a serious discussion on this matter in some time. More information on the gas tax can be [found here](http://facethefactsusa.org/facts/pump-prices-climb-but-gas-tax-stays-flat/?utm_source=Face+the+Facts+USA&utm_campaign=3bd79c87c5-Fact_of_the_Day8_31_2012&utm_medium=email) and the CBO chart can be viewed on [this site](http://images.politico.com/global/2012/08/120827_cboaugust.html). 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Check%20Out%20Our%20New%20%E2%80%9CFailure%20to%20Act%E2%80%9D%20Economic%20Report%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D6c7ad2f1-9bed-48c6-9480-76d5b5ed718d&p%5Btitle%5D=Check%20Out%20Our%20New%20%E2%80%9CFailure%20to%20Act%E2%80%9D%20Economic%20Report%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Check%20Out%20Our%20New%20%E2%80%9CFailure%20to%20Act%E2%80%9D%20Economic%20Report%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last Thursday, ASCE released its latest “Failure to Act” report on the economic impact of underinvestment in America’s infrastructure. In the report, we’ve projected a significant gap between planned investment and spending needs for the nation’s airports, marine ports, and inland waterways. With ports and inland waterways critical to our nation’s global competitiveness, the report forecasts investment falling $16 billion short of the $30 billion needed through 2020. For airports, there is a projected gap of $19 billion from a total need of $114 billion. Failing to meet the gaps creates a drag on the economy by causing congestion and delays for U.S. businesses that import and export goods, leading to higher transportation costs and causing the price of goods to rise. [Read and download the full report](http://cms.asce.org/Infrastructure/Failure-to-Act/Airports,-Inland-Waterways,-and-Marine-Ports/). The fourth report in the Failure to Act series was released during two events in Washington, D.C., one for media members and another for Congressional staff. Both events were moderated by ASCE President Andy Herrmann, and joined by Virginia Port Authority Executive Director Jerry Bridges, and Rick Calhoun, President of Cargo Carriers. The event on Capitol Hill was highlighted by remarks from Congresswoman Janice Hahn (D-CA), co-chair and founder of the Ports Caucus. Previous Failure to Act reports have analyzed electricity, surface transportation, and drinking water and wastewater. Access the complete series at [www.asce.org/failuretoact](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact). You can view media coverage of the release below: [America’s ailing ports invisible amid the country’s failing infrastructure](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNEl_fZbM4rJCYRj-JpeUsmRB5ROhw&url=http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/americas-ailing-ports-invisible-amid-the-countrys-failing-infrastructure/2012/09/13/ef1be512-fdcb-11e1-8adc-499661afe377_story.html) Washington Post The estimate was presented Thursday in a report by the American Society of Civil Engineers, a professional trade group that has commissioned a series of reports on the gap between current spending on infrastructure and the funding needed to repair or … [Aging Port Infrastructure Threatens 1 Million U.S. Jobs, Says ASCE ](http://www.dredgingtoday.com/2012/09/14/aging-port-infrastructure-threatens-1-million-u-s-jobs-says-asce/)Dredging Today Aging infrastructure for marine ports, inland waterways, and airports threatens more than 1 million U.S. jobs according to a new Failure to Act report from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)… [American Society of Civil Engineers says U.S. jobs threatened by aging ports …](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHPJdS0ecQSglOdT0Y6sHaeoGM5OA&url=http://www.bizjournals.com/birmingham/morning_call/2012/09/american-society-of-civil-engineers.html) Birmingham Business Journal A report by the American Society of Civil Engineers said jobs in the United States will be threatened unless maintenance of aging infrastructure for marine ports and inland waterways is properly funded. [Billions in upgrades needed for ports, waterways, civil engineering group …](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNHmpnOljABrNTUOxyy7H8-mShTs8Q&url=http://www.caller.com/news/2012/sep/13/billions-in-upgrades-needed-for-ports-waterways/) Corpus Christi Caller Times The Failure to Act report, completed by the American Society of Civil Engineers warns that the country needs about $30 billion in infrastructure improvements to accommodate expanded international trade by 2020. That is about $16 billion more than what … [Study shows port funding lax, but Manatee ahead of game](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&usg=AFQjCNG30t0K2b8kddWm2HhFrVaOurK9Rg&url=http://www.bradenton.com/2012/09/14/4199440/study-shows-port-funding-lax-but.html) Bradenton Herald That shortfall could create a drag on the U.S. economy to the tune of 1 million jobs and $700 billion worth of GDP by 2020, according to a report released Thursday by the American Society of Civil Engineers. The group lobbied for the federal government … [![Enhanced by Zemanta](http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=6c7ad2f1-9bed-48c6-9480-76d5b5ed718d)](http://www.zemanta.com/?px "Enhanced by Zemanta") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Check%20Out%20Our%20New%20%E2%80%9CFailure%20to%20Act%E2%80%9D%20Economic%20Report%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D6c7ad2f1-9bed-48c6-9480-76d5b5ed718d&p%5Btitle%5D=Check%20Out%20Our%20New%20%E2%80%9CFailure%20to%20Act%E2%80%9D%20Economic%20Report%21 "Share on 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Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-passes-temporary-spending-bill/) **Published:** September 26, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Passes%20Temporary%20Spending%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Passes%20Temporary%20Spending%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Passes%20Temporary%20Spending%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Early last Sunday, the Senate voted to pass a continuing resolution (CR) that funds the government for the first half of Fiscal Year 2013, which begins October 1. The bill expires March 27, 2013 and will provide $1.047 trillion in discretionary spending, which matches the cap set in the Budget Control Act (BCA) signed in August 2011. The House passed the CR the previous week. The funding will be about $8 billion above current levels and the increase — about 0.6 percent — will be spread across the board for all agencies. However, Congress still must deal with the automatic spending cuts it ordered last year when it required the president to sequester $110 billion in FY 2013 if the House and Senate failed to come up with comprehensive budget cuts. So far, those efforts have failed, and the automatic cuts are scheduled to take effect on January 2. Last week the [Office of Management and Budget](http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb "Office of Management and Budget")(OMB) released a report detailing the across-the-board cuts in the FY 2013 budget under the mandatory sequestration law. “The sequestration would result in a 9.4 percent reduction in non-exempt defense discretionary funding and an 8.2 percent reduction in non-exempt, non-defense discretionary spending,” the OMB reported. Congress exempted certain programs from the automatic cuts in the Budget Control Act –sequestration. Among the infrastructure accounts exempted are the [federal Highway Trust Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway_Trust_Fund "Highway Trust Fund") and the [Airport Improvement Program](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Airport_Improvement_Program "Airport Improvement Program") grants-in-aid. The [National Flood Insurance Program](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Flood_Insurance_Program "National Flood Insurance Program") funding of $171 million in 2013 also is exempt from sequestration. “The administration cannot choose which programs to exempt or what percentage cuts to apply,” the OMB said. If Congress does not take action before January 2nd, among the infrastructure programs to undergo mandatory cuts in 2013 is the Corps of Engineers military construction program, a decrease of $383 million (9.4 percent) from $4.072 billion in the BCA. The Corps’ Civil Works program will be reduced by $505 million from $5.772 billion. These cuts included $150 million in construction, $176 million in operation and maintenance, and $86 million in Mississippi River and Tributaries spending. The State and Tribal Assistance Grants program at the [Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)](http://www.epa.gov "United States Environmental Protection Agency") funds wastewater and drinking-water infrastructure through the State [Revolving Loan Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revolving_Loan_Fund "Revolving Loan Fund") (SRF) programs. The account will be reduced by $293 million (8.2 percent) overall from $3.5 billion. The OMB does not identify how much money will be cut from the wastewater SRF and how much from the drinking-water SRF. The Federal Transit Administration would be cut by $172 million, including $156 million from a total of $1.9 billion for capital investment grants, an 8.2 percent reduction. Customs and Border Protection would lose $19 million of $237 million (8.2 percent) from its construction program. The water program at the Bureau of Reclamation would be cut by $89 million (8.2 percent) from $878 million. A further $302 million from the account’s total of $1 billion would be exempt from sequestration. The National Park Service budget for construction would be cut $13 million from the $156 million in budget authority. Another $126 million would be exempt. The State Department’s embassy construction program of $1.5 billion would be cut by $129 million. Congress has the authority to act before January 2 to eliminate or redistribute some or all of the sequestration requirements for FY 2013 in an effort to reduce spending by $110 billion. The full OMB report can be seen [here](http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/legislative_reports/stareport.pdf). 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of Civil Engineers released the *2012* *Report Card for New Mexico’s Infrastructure*(Report Card). In its newest report, the New Mexico Section graded the state’s infrastructure a C overall, with aviation, rail, road, and solid waste infrastructure worsening since the last report in 2005. The Report Card urges public officials to increase infrastructure investment and keep pace with New Mexico’s rapid growth. “How we get to work, how we raise our families, and how we can build a more sustainable future all depend on infrastructure,” said ASCE President Andrew W. Herrmann, P.E., SECB. “Given that only one of the 10 areas grades above a ‘C,’ we hope this Report Card will serve as a wakeup call that we must do more. Maintaining and modernizing our infrastructure – our roads, bridges, and water systems –should be a top priority to meet the needs of New Mexican families now and in the future.” The Report Card was picked up by numerous media outlets, including the[ Santa Fe New Mexican](http://www.santafenewmexican.com/Local%20News/092112study#.UGSfP7JlSM4), the [Farmington Daily Times](http://www.daily-times.com/ci_21605131/civil-engineers-give-states-infrastructure-c), the [New Mexico Business Journal](http://www.bizjournals.com/albuquerque/news/2012/09/21/nms-infrastructure-gets-c-rating.html), and [KOB Eyewitness 4 News](http://www.kob.com/article/stories/S2774415.shtml). To view the media coverage, please click on the respective link and feel free to share the stories with anyone you know. Only through working together can we hope to improve New Mexico’s infrastructure. 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From transportation bonds in Alaska to a dam repair initiative in Hawaii to a clean water question in Rhode Island, infrastructure has come back into focus. ASCE has identified statewide measures in six states that are of interest to our members and to the civil engineering profession as a whole. ASCE members in Alaska, Arkansas, Hawaii, Maine, Oklahoma, and Rhode Island should be on the lookout for Key Alerts urging action on these important ballot items. For more information on these [you can visit here](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/State-Government-Relations/State-Ballot-Initiatives-November-2013/). Leading up to the election on November 6 we will be highlighting a different ballot item every Wednesday in this blog. Check back next week for a discussion on the $1.3 billion upgrade to state and municipal roads in Arkansas. 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6th](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/pikes-peak-rural-transportation-authority-up-for-renewal-on-november-6th/) **Published:** October 15, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Pikes%20Peak%20Rural%20Transportation%20Authority%20Up%20For%20Renewal%20on%20November%206th&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Pikes%20Peak%20Rural%20Transportation%20Authority%20Up%20For%20Renewal%20on%20November%206th "Share on 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However, one issue in [Colorado Springs, CO](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colorado_Springs%2C_Colorado "Colorado Springs, Colorado") is not difficult whatsoever: the renewal of the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority (PPRTA). Question 5A asks voters in [El Paso County, Colorado](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/El_Paso_County%2C_Colorado "El Paso County, Colorado") to approve the extension of the PPRTA, a one percent tax to improve roads and bridges. The initiative is not a tax increase, but rather a continuation of an already successful program. Currently, the PPRTA funds the construction and maintenance of area road projects. In fact, the Colorado Springs Independent argues “the accomplishments of PPRTA I were huge,” and “the projects now are equally vital, taking care of major needs to existing infrastructure, and improving roads and bridges that our governments no longer have the wherewithal to address.” Civil engineers have taken to supporting the PPRTA. ASCE is releasing the *2012 Report Card for Colorado Springs Infrastructure* this coming Wednesday. In the report, local civil engineers examine the needs of El Paso County and how and why PPRTA is vital for continued infrastructure improvements. So on November 6th, please remember that transportation infrastructure allows us to go to work in the morning, get our children to school safely, and connect to businesses all over the world. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Pikes%20Peak%20Rural%20Transportation%20Authority%20Up%20For%20Renewal%20on%20November%206th&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, state report cards, transportation --- ### [The Clean Water Act Turns 40!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/clean-water-act-turns-40/) **Published:** October 18, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Clean%20Water%20Act%20Turns%2040%21 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Clean%20Water%20Act%20Turns%2040%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [Clean Water Act](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clean_Water_Act "Clean Water Act") is 40 years old this week, and we are all so much better for it because it. As we near the end of 2012, we can look back and say we’ve made remarkable progress on cleaning up the nation’s waters. Forty years ago, people were afraid to swim or fish in our waters, our lakes and our rivers. And quite frankly, we didn’t have the resources to address the issue. In 1972 the Clean Water Act was enacted to regulate the discharge of pollutants into the waters in the United States and established water quality standards. It made it unlawful to discharge any pollutant into navigable waters unless a permit was issued. With this law and the hard work of local governments and engineers, we’ve kept billions of pounds of sewage, chemicals and trash out of our waters. Today’s engineers are doing amazing things and we have benefited from new technology. Urban waterways have gone from being wastelands to being the center of redevelopment and activity. The end result—waters are more swimmable, fishable and sources of [drinking water](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drinking_water "Drinking water") are more protected. And that is something we can all be proud of as stewards of the Nation’s infrastructure. There is not a single location in this country where you cannot go and get a clean glass of water. But 40 years from now, will we be able to make the same statement? I don’t know. We are once again facing a challenge. The United States population is projected to grow 55 percent from 2000 to 2050, which will burden our infrastructure. Population growth, coupled with added development, further strains our system. Face it. Our water and wastewater systems are aging and are overburdened, with many of them built 100 years or more ago. Sadly, we’ve all seen the impact these aging pipes and facilities have on our daily lives. From broken water mains to “boil water” alerts. A recent economic study by the American Society of Civil Engineers found that the gap between what is being spent on [water infrastructure](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrastructure "Infrastructure") and what is needed to meet the nation’s demands will reach $84 billion by 2020. Annual investment in water infrastructure is approximately $36.4 billion. In order to meet the needs of our growing population and ensure we continue to have clean drinking water the annual investment must increase to $91 billion. An estimated $9.4 billion per year between now and 2020 would avoid $21 billion per year in costs to households and businesses. Absent significant funding increases, there are some actions we can all take. If households and businesses adopt sustainability practices such as improved efficiency through process or equipment changes, water reclamation or green infrastructure to address wet weather management, the economic impact could be lessened. 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On Election Day, elected officials find out if their constituents believe they’re doing a satisfactory job, or not. This year on Election Day make sure you get out to vote. On November 6, as you cast your vote for public officials at the national and state levels, you are also probably one of the voters in 39 states that will decide the fact 188 ballot propositions – the most since 2006. While there are many important issues being decided in this election, it is important to note that there is more than $3 billion in bonding for schools and roads on the ballot across the country tomorrow. From $450 million in transportation bonds in question in Alaska, to $300 million for water projects in Oklahoma to $1.5 billion in Arkansas to pay for a four-lane highway system statewide. Please support your community’s needs! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Get%20Out%20The%20Vote%20%28for%20Infrastructure%20Initiatives%29&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** elections --- ### [2012 November Ballot Initiatives](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2012-november-ballot-initiatives/) **Published:** November 9, 2012 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Voters in 39 states were asked to decide 188 ballot propositions – the most since 2006. ASCE members in 5 states -Alaska, Arkansas, Hawaii, Maine and Oklahoma were sent Key Alerts in regards to state-wide ballot initiatives dealing with infrastructure issues in those states. If you live in one of those states did you receive the Alert? Did you pass it along to your peers? Word-of-mouth promotion of an issue is often the most persuasive! **Alaska** **Type: Bonding for Transportation Projects** Voters were asked to give permission to the State to borrow $195.4 million to fund 18 port and port-related transportation projects around the state, and also $254.5 million to finance highway and road projects in different regions. *Result: Passed 57%-43%* **Arkansas** **Type: Sales Tax for Transportation Projects** Voters were asked to implement a half-percent sales tax in the state. This revenue generated from this ballot initiative, also known as Issue 1, would be used to leverage bonds to pay for creating a statewide four-lane grid and adding capacity to the existing four-lane highways statewide.*Result: Passed 57%-43% Result: Passed 58%-42%* **Hawaii** **Type: Bonding for Dam and Reservoir Safety** Voters were asked to authorize the State to issue special purpose revenue bonds and use the proceeds from the bonds to assist dam and reservoir owners to make their facilities compliant with current safety standards. *Result: Failed, Only 49% in favor of While the ‘Yes’ Votes outnumbered the ’No’ votes 49% to 40%, with 11% of the vote leaving the item blank the ballot initiative failed to get a majority of the vote in the state and therefore did not pass.* **Maine** **Question 4 Type: Bonding for Transportation Projects** Voters were asked to give permission to the State to borrow $51.5 million to fund transportation projects around the state which in turn would make the State eligible for at least , $105 million in matching funds. *Result: Passed 72%-28%* **Question 5 Type: Bonding for Water Projects** Voters were asked to give permission to the State to borrow $7.9 million to leverage $39.6 million in federal grants to fund the State Revolving Fund (SRF). *Result: Passed 63%-37%* **Oklahoma** **Type: Bonding for Water Projects** Voters were asked to approve constitutional amendment that creates the Water Infrastructure Credit Enhancement Reserve fund, and authorizes the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) to provide financing to local communities for water infrastructure projects at lower interest rates. *Result: Passed 57%-43%* In addition to these statewide initiatives there were also many local initiatives with a broad impact. Here is a listing of some of the most significant and their results. **Los Angeles County, California:** Los Angeles County weighed in on a 30-year extension of a half-cent transportation sales tax. Measure J is a linchpin of L.A. Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s plans to remake the nation’s premier car centric city. And it would tack another 30 years on Measure R, which was narrowly approved by voters in 2009 and is expected to bring in around $40 billion over its lifetime. *Result: Failed. 65% in favor of-35% against. This measure required 66.66% approval.* **Alameda County, California:** Residents were asked to approve Measure B1, a plan that would extend a current half-cent transportation sales tax and tack another half-cent on top. This would create $7.7 billion over 30 years for a tax that would be employed in perpetuity, though regional project lists would get reevaluated every 20 years. That money would go toward the regional BART system, reinstate bus service cuts during the recession and enact a complete streets policy. *Result: Failed. 66% in favor of-34% against. This measure required 66.66% approval.* **El Paso County, Colorado: Voters were asked to approve a** ten-year renewal of a 0.55% sales tax for the Pikes Peak Rural Transportation Authority. Revenue will be used to support 150 capital projects, approximately 3% of which are transit-related. The current tax is set to expire December 31, 2014. If approved, the tax would be extended until 2024. *Result: Passed 72%-18% **Orange County, North Carolina:** A measure in this Chapel Hill community between Durham and Raleigh could signal the expansion of regional rail. Residents will vote on a half-cent sales tax increase to allow for enhanced bus and light-rail service. Investments could reach $661 million. This would mark the second of three counties needed to link the popular Research Triangle region by transit. *Result: Passed 59%-31%* **Richland County, South Carolina**: Known as the “transportation penny,” this one-cent sales tax increase will go toward major road, bike and greenway projects in a county that includes Columbia. Advocates say it will generate more than $1 billion over the next 22 years *Result: Passed 53%-47%* **Memphis, Tennessee:** Memphis is asking for a one-cent increase in the gas tax to fund the Memphis Area Transit Authority. If approved the move would bring about $3 million per year in additional funding. *Result: Failed. 38% in favor of-62% against.* **Pierce County, Washington:** This Tacoma area measure would add a .3 percent sales tax to salvage public transportation. The county has already cut its bus service by about 40 percent. Without additional revenue, it could slash around 50 percent more. The move could generate $28 million annually. *Result: Still Too Close to Call* [![Enhanced by Zemanta](http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=14b1d5e9-e15c-4072-b213-b01123afbfa5)](http://www.zemanta.com/?px "Enhanced by Zemanta") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2012%20November%20Ballot%20Initiatives&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D14b1d5e9-e15c-4072-b213-b01123afbfa5&p%5Btitle%5D=2012%20November%20Ballot%20Initiatives "Share on 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fortunes they’ve encountered this past year. Members of our office and the infrastructure community in general have reason to be thankful for a great many things that occurred this past year or exist as a part of America’s infrastructure as a whole. Below are some of the items that our staff is thankful for this year. *I’m very thankful for the new HOT lanes in Virginia that will reduce congestion in the Metro-DC area; the excellent job Chris Christie did in responding to Hurricane Sandy; and for the US having one of the cleanest drinking water supplies readily* available. -Adam G. *I am thankful for the DC Metro and the ease with which it allows me to come into work every day. The new Rush Plus service means more trains are coming and going from my location, and it has made my commute so much easier. Getting a seat in the morning is a small joy I will never overlook.* -Clark B. *I am thankful for all of our quality infrastructure, and especially for living near the largest concentration of National Park sites in country, which I will be taking advantage of over the holiday weekend.* -Leslie N. *I am thankful that Congress took the time this summer to pass a surface transportation bill! The funding certainty provided by MAP-21 is critical for planning purposes. (I am also thankful for my new husband!)* -Caroline S. *I am thankful that ASCE’s members have dedicated hundreds of hours of their time to promote infrastructure and release 15 infrastructure report cards this year.* -Brittney K. *I’m thankful that the electric power lines in my neighborhood are buried.* -Martin H. *I am thankful for the clean water, safe roads, flood protection, and electricity that civil engineers make possible every day.* -Brian P. It’s been a busy year, and there’s still more work to be done. We should not lose sight of the challenges ahead in adequately investing America’s infrastructure, but it’s also good to look back during a time for giving thanks. What are you thankful for? Share your thoughts in the comments below. 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Many in Washington are speculating the possibility that the federal gas tax may be reexamined as a revenue option during discussions. Incoming House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) and Ranking Member Nick Rahall (D-WV) have both said publicly that raising the gas tax should be on the table at this time, in order to create a reliable revenue stream for the nation’s surface transportation system. However, outgoing Chairman, John Mica (R-FL),has refuted those comments by declaring that raising the gas tax as this time is too politically charged and therefore will not currently be under consideration. In the meantime, President Obama has recycled an old idea during the fiscal cliff talks by proposing once again a one-time infusion of $50 billion for the nation’s infrastructure. Many House Republicans quickly argued that the expense should not be made as part of a compromised package, including long time infrastructure advocate, and retiring Congressman, Steve LaTourette (R-OH). Talks continue behind closed doors, and President Obama and Speaker Boehner are reported to be personally communicating on ways to avert going over the cliff, including the possibility for a much anticipated but mythical “grand bargain”. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Driving%20Off%20the%20Fiscal%20Cliff&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, infrastructure --- ### [The Big Picture on Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-big-picture-on-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** January 28, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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this week, we saw the big picture consequences of failing to invest in our nation’s infrastructure. With this report, ASCE set out to answer this key question: **What is impact on America’s economic future if we do not invest in our infrastructure today?** With our analysis – based on current investment trends and expecting funding levels, no sector is meeting its full potential – there are significant investment gaps, or funding shortfalls, in every sector we studied (surface transportation, water/wastewater, electricity, and airports, ports, and inland waterways) by the year 2020. The investment shortfalls mean that much-needed maintenance and modernization is not getting done, and our infrastructure systems start to deteriorate further. For the most part, this isn’t something dramatic you will notice overnight, but a gradual worsening of conditions over time. Your commute will become less reliable, your shipments will take longer. You may experience more electrical outages and water issues. And these things cost us something. What we did for this final Failure to Act report was to look at the **combined, interactive effect** of the investment trends in infrastructure between now and 2020. It’s important to note that this wasn’t a simple math problem of combining the costs and impacts of previous studies. Rather, each infrastructure sector is linked to one another. For example, deteriorating conditions on our nation’s roads may shift goods to travel by rail or barge on the inland waterway system. What we found in this new study is that the overall cost to households and businesses of deficient infrastructure grows to $1.2 trillion for businesses by 2020 and $611 billion for households, under current investment trends. Thus, the investment gaps will total $1.1 trillion by 2020, and will grow to $4.7 trillion by 2040. If we don’t address this funding shortfall of $157 billion a year for our nation’s infrastructure, we will be faced with the following by 2020: - A projected loss of $3.1 trillion in GDP, *almost the equivalent of the 2011 GDP of France* - A $1.1 trillion decline in U.S. trade value, *equivalent to Mexico’s GDP* - A loss of 3.5 million jobs in the year 2020 alone, *more than the jobs created in the U.S. over the previous 22 months* - A $2.4 trillion decline in consumer spending, *comparable to Brazil’s GDP* - A drop of $3,100 in disposable income per year, per household And while the investment needed may seem daunting, the real story of this report is that we can’t afford not to. It’s almost impossible to fully separate the sectors –transportation, water, ports, and the electric grid. The cumulative impact of failing to invest over time and the interaction between modes ensures that deficiencies in one sector will have an impact on other sectors. Each of our *Failure to Act* reports demonstrated a common theme – deteriorating infrastructure has a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, negatively affecting business productivity, [gross domestic product (GDP)](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gross_domestic_product "Gross domestic product"), employment, personal income, and international competitiveness. The message is clear: if we don’t invest now, we all end up paying more in the long run. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Big%20Picture%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, infrastructure, infrastructure investment --- ### [ASCE Statement on the President's State of the Union Address](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-presidents-state-of-the-union-address/) **Published:** February 13, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20President%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20the%20Union%20Address&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*The following is a statement from Gregory E. DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding President Obama’s State of the Union address:* “As stewards of our nation’s infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers applauds President Obama’s efforts to improve our country’s ailing infrastructure and get America back to work. Infrastructure is the foundation of our communities, and without it, our businesses, schools, and our everyday lives cease to function. “The President said it himself; we have an ‘aging infrastructure badly in need of repair.’ Simply, we must invest in our roads, bridges, ports, and water systems. This will help us build a 21st Century America for an ever-changing 21st Century economy. [![English: U.S. President delivers the while sta...](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b9/2011_State_of_the_Union_Obama.jpg/300px-2011_State_of_the_Union_Obama.jpg "English: U.S. President delivers the while sta...")](http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2011_State_of_the_Union_Obama.jpg)Courtesy of Wikipedia Commons“In a first-of-its-kind economic report on our failure to invest in infrastructure, ASCE has found that infrastructure investment is inherently linked to our nation’s economic success. [The Failure to Act report](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) found that if we fill our infrastructure funding gap by 2020, the U.S. can eliminate potential drags on economic growth, protect 3.5 million jobs, and protect $3,100 in annual personal disposable income. “President Obama’s ‘Fix-It-First’ plan is a great step toward rebuilding America. Private investment along with political leadership can help our nation grow and create much needed jobs. First class roads, bridges, and ports will lead to first class jobs, homes, and lives for American families. “Rebuilding our nation’s roads, bridges, and water systems is not enough. We must have long-term plans for maintenance and repair, sustainable funding mechanisms that assure reliability, and the political leadership to invest in our own communities. “On March 19th, ASCE will release the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, a comprehensive assessment on the state of our nation’s core infrastructure. In the 2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, ASCE awarded our country a ‘D.’ A ‘D’ is not good enough for our students in the classroom, and certainly not good enough for American families or our economy. “Next month’s Report Card grades will give the country, as well as the President, a clearer picture of where America can improve and offer solutions for how to do just that. The President’s State of the Union address offered a strong vision for investing in our economic foundation and jumpstarting our economy. We look forward to working with the Administration, Congress, and all those who are concerned with our country’s economic future on how we can reinvest in our communities and build the infrastructure America needs to prosper.” [![Enhanced by Zemanta](http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=117e0a96-84a2-4b61-a8ab-81f4e4c4c030)](http://www.zemanta.com/?px "Enhanced by Zemanta") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Federal%20Role%20in%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F02%2FShusterHonFellow-1024x683-270x180.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Federal%20Role%20in%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Federal%20Role%20in%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ShusterHonFellow-1024x683-270x180.jpg) The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held a hearing on Wednesday to [examine the federal role in infrastructure](http://transportation.house.gov/hearing/federal-role-america%E2%80%99s-infrastructurehttp://). The hearing came the day after President Obama proclaimed in his State of the Union address that that nation must make a commitment to fix the infrastructure that we have. Chairman Shuster (R-PA) put together an A-list panel, with US Chamber of Commerce President Tom Donahue, LiUNA President Terry O’Sullivan, and Building America’s Future Co-Chair and former Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell all agreeing that the Federal government must be a key player when it comes to the nation’s infrastructure. The witnesses stated that all funding options, including a gas tax increase, MUST be a part of the conversation because it will be costly to build and maintain the world class infrastructure that is required for continued economic growth. Infrastructure’s relationship to public safety, national security, and economic competitiveness, makes it clear why a strong infrastructure system has always played a critical role to the federal interest. In fact, infrastructure spending and the federal government have a history that dates to Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution that gave Congress the power to “establish post offices and post roads.” The country has expanded significantly since that time, and with it the nation has needed to expand its infrastructure in order to maintain a modern economy. During the 20th Century, the federal government led the way in building our nation’s greatest infrastructure systems from the Intercontinental Railroad, to New Deal programs, to the Interstate Highway System, and the Clean Water Act. Since that time, federal leadership and investment have decreased, and the condition of the nation’s infrastructure suffered. Unfortunately, according to the Congressional Budget Office, the total of all federal spending for infrastructure has steadily declined over the past 30 years. As the Committee begins work in the 113th Congress, our nation’s infrastructure will require significant attention. Congress has not reauthorized a Clean Water Act since 1987, a Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) since 2007, and the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act will expire in September. The National Dam Safety Program has not been reauthorized since it expired in 2010, and, surface transportation programs while authorized through 2014 still require a sustainable revenue source for the Highway Trust Fund to be viable in the future. Each issue also acts as an example for why the federal government must continue to play a role in funding different facets of our nation’s infrastructure. ASCE [submitted a statement](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Testimony-and-Correspondence/Testimonies,-Statements-and-Letters-to-U-S--Congress/) for the hearing, which outlined the economic benefits from a well-functioning infrastructure. ASCE’s Failure to Act reports have found that 3.5 million jobs would be at risk by 2020 if we do not increase investments and that there would be a loss of 3.1 trillion in GDP. Additionally, the current investment shortfall of $1.6 trillion would grow to $2.7 trillion over the next 7 years if we do not increase infrastructure investments now. By improving the nation’s deteriorating infrastructure system both economic and job creation opportunities will be provided, while creating a multi-modal transportation system for the Twenty-First Century. 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Chamber of Commerce") held a [Transportation and Infrastructure Summit](http://www.uschamber.com/issues/transportation/2013-summit) this last Wednesday. The event highlighted the need to invest in our nation’s infrastructure and the effects that those investments have on the economy. The day kicked off with opening remarks from US Chamber President, [Tom Donahue](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Donahue "Tom Donahue"), who pushed [![United States Chamber of Commerce logo.](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/19/US_CoC_Logo.png "United States Chamber of Commerce logo.")](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:US_CoC_Logo.png)United States Chamber of Commerce logo. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)the need to establish a long term, reliable funding mechanism for transportation, but to increase the gas tax in the meantime. House [Transportation and Infrastructure](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_House_Committee_on_Transportation_and_Infrastructure "United States House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure") Chairman, [Bill Shuster](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Shuster "Bill Shuster") (R-PA), followed Donahue’s remarks with a strong endorsement for the federal government’s role in infrastructure and stated that his Committee is looking at all possibilities when it comes to infrastructure revenue options. Throughout the afternoon the Chamber held panels ranging from the federal role in transportation, to the use of [Public Private Partnerships](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public%E2%80%93private_partnership "Public–private partnership"), to economic competitiveness. ASCE’s Failure to Act reports were cited frequently by all of the speakers as a reason why we must be making these transportation investments now if we do not want to risk job losses and a drop in the GDP in the long term. 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an which would create the Office of Infrastructure Investment and the American Infrastructure Fund. The proposal would develop a large scale financing mechanism for transportation, energy, communication, water, and educational infrastructure using a public-private partnership modal. According to Delaney the proposal “will combine investments by U.S. corporations, for which they obtain a tax-credit for overseas earnings repatriation, with low-cost funding and project specific private investment to help build the backbone of our country for the future.” The concept comes after President Bill Clinton once again brought up the idea of an infrastructure bank at the House Democratic Issue Conference earlier this month. ASCE applauds Congressman Delaney for seeking funding for our nation’s infrastructure. Innovative financing such as a National Infrastructure Bank, could provide a fiscally prudent means to begin repairing our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure. Innovative financing techniques can greatly accelerate infrastructure development and can have a powerful economic stimulus effect. The nation must develop and authorize innovative financing programs that not only make resources readily available, but also encourage the most effective and efficient use of those resources. Federal investment must be used to complement, encourage, and leverage investment from the state and local government levels as well as from the private sector. In addition, users of infrastructure must be willing to pay the appropriate price for their use. However, it must be noted that without long-term financial assurance, the ability of the federal, state, and local governments to do effective infrastructure investment planning will remain severely constrained. Therefore, a National Infrastructure Bank, or other mechanisms that allow for the government to leverage private dollars, cannot be the silver bullet. Instead these concepts should be used as one key to increasing infrastructure investments and should be combined with other innovative, as well as historically proven, revenue streams. Therefore, as the 113th Congress works to provide revenue solutions for infrastructure, ASCE will continue to urge that all options remain on the table. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing Congressman Delaney’s bill! 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Will Virginia be next?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-contributes-to-legislative-success-in-wisconsin-will-virginia-be-next/) **Published:** February 21, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week ASCE sent a Key Alert to its members in Wisconsin urging passage of legislation that would allow an amendment to the state constitution to protect transportation funding. The passed measure, [**Assembly Joint Resolution (AJR) 2**](http://hamptonroads.com/2013/02/roads-funding-plan-reached-vote-remains), allows the citizens of Wisconsin to vote on amending the state constitution to protect transportation funds intended for transportation from being “raided” for other uses by the state government. AJR 2 passed the Wisconsin Assembly earlier this month and this past week on February 20, 2013 the state Senate voted 25-8 to amend the constitution. , a move that This ensures this issue will be decided by the citizens of Wisconsin by referendum in November 2014. If passed by the voters voters approve a restriction of such spending, the constitution will be amended, protecting Wisconsin’s transportation funds in that state in the future. Read about the Wisconsin bill[ **here**](http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/senate-sends-to-voters-a-constitutional-amendment-on-road-fund-raids-i08rraq-192104391.html) February 22, ASCE sent a Key Alert to its members that live in Virginia asking them to contact their legislators to support the compromise in favor of multi-year transportation bill that was completed agreed to yesterday. The 100-member House and 40-member Senate have just days to act on the bill. If it fails to garner 51 votes in the House and 21 in the Senate by the time the legislative session ends this Saturday, February 23, one of Virginia’s most pressing problems will again go unaddressed. Read about the Virginia bill **[here](http://hamptonroads.com/2013/02/roads-funding-plan-reached-vote-remains)** What will happen? Find out next week! 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20contributes%20to%20legislative%20success%20in%20Wisconsin.%20%20Will%20Virginia%20be%20next%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** legislation, transportation --- ### [Obama Expands On Infrastructure Proposals](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obama-expands-on-infrastructure-proposals/) **Published:** February 25, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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details](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/02/20/fact-sheet-president-s-plan-make-america-magnet-jobs-investing-infrastru)on his infrastructure plans that were first [![Cherry Avenue bridge is open](http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2601/3838186953_853e2fce81_m.jpg "Cherry Avenue bridge is open")](http://www.flickr.com/photos/75698896@N00/3838186953)(Photo credit: Steven Vance)mentioned during the State of the Union address. The administration released a fact sheet that offers some specifics, however many of the details will still have to wait until the President releases his budget proposal in a few weeks. The announcement this week focused on three items: A “fix-it-first” proposal to repair existing infrastructure before building new projects, a “Rebuild America Partnership” to bring private money off the sidelines through a new bond program, and a continued “modernization effort” to speed up permitting and construction. The President’s plan would immediately invest $50 billion in our nation’s transportation infrastructure, with $40 billion targeted to the most urgent upgrades and focused on fixing our highways, bridges, transit systems, and airports most in need of repair. However, the President’s proposal does not outline a funding source for this infusion. In the past, Obama has said his infrastructure proposals could be paid for by using savings from winding down wars overseas, but that has not been specifically mentioned this time around. We applaud the President for focusing on infrastructure investments and looks forward to working with the administration and Congress on how we can make these much needed investments. We are also hopeful that a long-term funding plan for surface transportation can be implemented that averts insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Another%20Win%20for%20ASCE%20State%20Legislative%20Efforts&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week we **[highlighted a win for ASCE in Wisconsin](http://blogs.asce.org/govrel/2013/02/21/asce-contributes-to-legislative-success-in-wisconsin-will-virginia-be-next/)** and brought up the possibility of success in Virginia. Well, last Saturday, February 23, the Virginia General Assembly ended it’s annual session with passage of a sweeping transportation deal. On the last day of the session, the Senate gave its blessing to a plan that dramatically overhauls the way Virginians will pay for roads, highways and mass transit. As you know, the Virginia Section sent a letter to the Governor and legislative leaders encouraging them to finish the job and pass a transportation plan for the state before the session ends. ASCE also issued a Key Alert to members in Virginia urging them to contact state legislators. Read more about the Virginia deal **[here](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/va-politics/va-lawmakers-approve-landmark-transportation-plan/2013/02/23/712969d8-7de4-11e2-82e8-61a46c2cde3d_story.html)** Let’s take a moment to recognize and congratulate our members for working at the local level! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Another%20Win%20for%20ASCE%20State%20Legislative%20Efforts&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** legislation, transportation --- ### [Continuing Resolution Puts Transportation Funds At Risk](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/continuing-resolution-puts-transportation-funds-at-risk/) **Published:** March 11, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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resolution](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuing_resolution "Continuing resolution") (CR) before March 27 to keep the federal government funded. The House last week passed a continuing resolution which shorts transportation programs by more than $700 million. The House CR does not incorporate the carefully achieved consensus on transportation funding found in [MAP-21](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moving_Ahead_for_Progress_in_the_21st_Century_Act "Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act"). These cuts from MAP-21 levels would amount to eliminating an additional $555 million for highways, $117 million for transit, and $48.5 million for highway safety. H.R. 933, the House bill, essentially freezes all non-Defense government departments and agencies for Fiscal Year 2013 at their FY 2012 enacted levels. To date, the existing six-month continuing resolution has been funding the government at a slightly higher annual rate, with most accounts receiving an increase of six-tenths of one percent. The Clean Water Act State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program would remain at $1.46 billion in FY 2013 and the Safe Drinking Water SRF would remain at $918 million. The bill provides funding authority for the last six months of FY 2013, through September 30, 2013, to allow all government agencies and programs to continue operating during that period, and it generally continues the authorities and conditions on such funding that were included in individual FY 2012 appropriations laws. Departments and agencies would not be allowed to initiate or resume any project or activity that wasn’t funded or authorized for FY 2012. Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) said this week that she is “confident” that the Senate will change the continuing resolution so that it accounts for the increased spending levels provided in MAP-21, but House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman, Bill Shuster (R-PA), has stated that he did not think including the increased levels was worth potentially taking down the entire CR in the House. Boxer and the leaders of the Senate committees that helped write MAP-21, Commerce Chairman Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), and Banking Chairman Tim Johnson (D-SD), wrote House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) on Tuesday to express their “strong disappointment” that the CR doesn’t boost transportation funding. The White House has also come out with a list of issues that the administration would like to see addressed, which includes the transportation changes. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Continuing%20Resolution%20Puts%20Transportation%20Funds%20At%20Risk&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** senate --- ### [Vermont Section Supporting Transportation Funding Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vermont-section-supporting-transportation-funding-plan/) **Published:** March 15, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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proposed transportation funding plan that includes an increase in the state’s gas tax. The Section sent a letter last week to the Governor, legislative leaders and members of the House and Senate Transportation Committees in support. Additionally, ASCE has issued a [key alert ](http://www.capwiz.com/asce/issues/alert/?alertid=62491341&type=ST)on the proposal, asking members to contact legislators in support of the proposal. The $32 million revenue package was approved this week by the House Transportation Committee by a 10-0 vote. The bill moves next to the House Ways and Means Committee, which reviews all tax proposals. Read more: [Burlington Free Press 3/13/13](http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20130313/NEWS03/303130026/House-committee-votes-for-gas-tax-increase?nclick_check=1) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Vermont%20Section%20Supporting%20Transportation%20Funding%20Plan&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Vermont%20Section%20Supporting%20Transportation%20Funding%20Plan "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Vermont%20Section%20Supporting%20Transportation%20Funding%20Plan&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, legislation, transportation --- ### [The Grades Are Out!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-grades-are-out/) **Published:** March 19, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21 "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21 "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The new ASCE 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure is now available at [infrastructurereportcard.org](/) and as a [tablet](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2013-report-card-for-americas/id603625735?mt=8) and [phone app](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2013-report-card-for-americas/id604211030?mt=8) on the iTunes and [Google Play stores](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ASCE.ASCEInfrastructureReportCard2013&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwxLDEsImNvbS5BU0NFLkFTQ0VJbmZyYXN0cnVjdHVyZVJlcG9ydENhcmQyMDEzIl0.). Every four years, ASCE issues the Report Card which evaluates conditions and investment needs for major sectors of infrastructure — including roads, bridges, drinking water systems, ports, mass transit, and the electric grid. This year’s Report Card covers 16 infrastructure categories, and it’s being released as a digital application (or “app”) that includes videos, interactive maps, and other multimedia tools. For the first time, the 2013 Report Card provides information for all 50 states, including examples of initiatives and innovations that are making a difference. For example, Oklahoma created a plan to replace or rehabilitate over 950 structurally deficient bridges between 2013 and 2020. Philadelphia implemented a program to improve resiliency and address combined sewer overflows using green infrastructure, capable of capturing water from all but the most severe storms. Be the first to get the new Report Card at [infrastructurereportcard.org](/), and just as importantly, share the grades in your social and professional networks via [Facebook](http://www.facebook.com/SaveUSAInfrastructure), [LinkedIn](http://www.linkedin.com/groups/American-Society-Civil-Engineers-ASCE-143956/about), and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel)! We hope everyone will be able to use this great product to get even more people involved in the conversation around our nation’s infrastructure. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Grades%20Are%20Out%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure report card, social media --- ### [DeFazio Tackles the Eternal Question…How to Fund the Highway Trust Fund?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/defazio-tackles-the-eternal-question-how-to-fund-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** March 27, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=DeFazio%20Tackles%20the%20Eternal%20Question%E2%80%A6How%20to%20Fund%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=DeFazio%20Tackles%20the%20Eternal%20Question%E2%80%A6How%20to%20Fund%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3F "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=DeFazio%20Tackles%20the%20Eternal%20Question%E2%80%A6How%20to%20Fund%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With each passing day we are getting closer to September 30, 2014, the day when MAP-21, the legislation funding surface transportation programs, will expire. Therefore, even though Congress just passed a surface transportation bill last summer, work already must be underway on the next bill. However, before Congress can pass another surface transportation reauthorization, a new, long-term, sustainable, funding mechanism must be identified for the Highway Trust Fund. Therefore, Members of Congress have been working on innovative solutions to the age old problem, with innovative solutions continuing to come out from Members on both sides of the aisle. One of the more recent proposals comes from Peter DeFazio (D-OR), the Ranking Member of the Highways and Transit subcommittee of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and he does touch upon the federal gas tax. The draft proposal would increase the federal gas tax by about one cent each year, by indexing the current 18.4 cents-per-gallon tax to inflation in construction costs and to increases in auto fuel efficiency standards. According to DeFazio’s office, tying the gas tax to the consumer price index would bring in about $50 billion over 10 years, while tying it to the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Cost Construction Index would yield $150 billion over the same period. The resulting revenue would then be used to back the issuance of $100 billion in bonds that would be paid off in 10 years. At this time the Obama administration has asked DeFazio to provide more details on his proposal and other Members of Congress are listening. Earlier this year Obama once again asked Congress to provide an additional $50 billion for roads and bridges, but has not suggested sources for the money. The DeFazio proposal could potentially provide some of the much needed revenues for the Highway Trust Fund. Next, Chairman of the full Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Bill Shuster (R-PA), has looked at the proposal and maintains his stance that all funding options for the Highway Trust Fund remain on the table. The concept is interesting and ASCE does support both raising the gas tax and indexing it to inflation. We will have to wait and see if the idea is included in a new surface transportation reauthorization as Congress begins work later this year. 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email")](mailto:?subject=DeFazio%20Tackles%20the%20Eternal%20Question%E2%80%A6How%20to%20Fund%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, transportation --- ### [ASCE State Sections Continue Legislative Efforts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-state-sections-continue-legislative-efforts/) **Published:** March 29, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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York and Maryland. ASCE issued a [Key Alert ](http://capwiz.com/asce/issues/alert/?alertid=62544241)this week to members in New York asking them to contact legislators in support of [SB 3942 ](http://assembly.state.ny.us/leg/?bn=S03942&term=2013)which would protect engineers from legal liability when they are performing pro bono services at the scene of a natural disaster. The bill has been referred to the Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs Committee. ASCE’s Maryland Section testified recently in support of a transportation funding bill, [HB 1515](http://mgaleg.maryland.gov/webmga/frmMain.aspx?id=hb1515&stab=01&pid=billpage&tab=subject3&ys=2013RS), that passed the House last week. If enacted, the state’s gas tax would be indexed to inflation, and a sales tax on the wholesale price of gas would be phased in gradually. The bill is now pending in the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. ASCE Sections continue to make their voices heard! 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20State%20Sections%20Continue%20Legislative%20Efforts&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Sections and Branches Lead the Way on the 2013 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sections-and-branches-lead-the-way-on-the-2013-report-card/) **Published:** March 29, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Sections%20and%20Branches%20Lead%20the%20Way%20on%20the%202013%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This March, ASCE released the *[2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* in a brand new format as a tablet and smart phone app during the annual Congressional Fly-In. ASCE members from all 50 states participated in taking the infrastructure message to Capitol Hill and shared the Report Card with their Members of Congress. Members have also been actively continuing to share the Report Card in their local areas by: - Assisting as spokespeople with TV and newspaper interviews like [KARE in Minnesota](http://www.kare11.com/news/article/1017640/391/Minnesota-bracing-for-low-grade-from-civil-engineers?odyssey=tab|topnews|bc|large) and [KIRO in Seattle](http://www.kirotv.com/videos/news/america-gets-d-on-infrastructure-report-card/vtyXq/) - Updating their State Report Cards in 19 states so that local information is available for policymakers and the public - Working with ASCE to write op-eds and letters to the editor about local or state infrastructure like in [the Tennessean](http://www.tennessean.com/article/20130321/OPINION02/130320018/2070?nclick_check=1) and the [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette](http://www.post-gazette.com/stories/opinion/letters/pennsylvanias-infrastructure-is-lacking-680621/) - Updating their websites to include links to the Report Card website and their State and Regional Report Cards As one of our three key initiatives, ASCE is continually working to raise awareness about the need for infrastructure investment and renewal. The Report Card is a key tool you can use to start conversations with policy makers and the public about infrastructure needs in your community. Every Section and Branch can take advantage of resources and opportunities to take the message to their area: 1. At your next meeting, discuss how your Section can use the Report Card to highlight pressing issues in your state or region, and let us know how we can help. The ASCE team who puts together the Report Card is available to answer your questions and work with you on using the message to start conversations at the state and local level so email us at <reportcard@asce.org>. 2. Ask your Board to share the Report Card with their professional networks like LinkedIn and social networks like Facebook with a short story about the infrastructure problems they tackle every day in their jobs. 3. Hold an infrastructure solutions event with other infrastructure stakeholders in your area or have a Section program featuring one of the Report Card Success Story winners from your area; tips and best practices for these events are available on the [Report Card Outreach Toolkit](https://files.asce.org/xythoswfs/webui/_xy-1276498_1-t_JJoAWvHc). 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Sections%20and%20Branches%20Lead%20the%20Way%20on%20the%202013%20Report%20Card "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Sections%20and%20Branches%20Lead%20the%20Way%20on%20the%202013%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, infrastructure report card --- ### [House and Senate Pass Budget Resolutions for 2014](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-and-senate-pass-budget-resolutions-for-2014/) **Published:** April 2, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Budget%20Resolutions%20for%202014&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm1.static.flickr.com%2F7%2F7235553_1c54b3bad4_m.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Budget%20Resolutions%20for%202014 "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Budget%20Resolutions%20for%202014&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Capitol](http://farm1.static.flickr.com/7/7235553_1c54b3bad4_m.jpg "Capitol")](http://www.flickr.com/photos/15131913@N00/7235553)Capitol (Photo credit: rpongsaj)The Senate passed a budget resolution for the first time in four years on March 23 that calls for reducing the federal deficit by $1.85 trillion over 10 years. The Senate also approved provisions in the resolution for Fiscal year 2014 that would restore the $85 billion cut from the Fiscal Year 2013 budget under [the sequestration order](http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/omb/assets/legislative_reports/fy13ombjcsequestrationreport.pdf) issued by the White House this month. After 13 hours of voting on various amendments and early-morning deal brokering in response to frustrated Republicans, the Senate voted to pass the budget by a close 50-49 vote. The resolution is not legally binding but only serves as a guide to the [Senate Appropriations Committee](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Senate_Committee_on_Appropriations "United States Senate Committee on Appropriations"), which must begin writing legislation to fund federal agencies for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2013. Keeping in line with earlier draft language, Senate Budget Chairwoman Patty Murray (D-WA) was able to retain a [$100 billion jobs and infrastructure package](http://images.politico.com/global/2013/03/13/sbc_foundation_for_growth_3_13_13.html) in the fiscal 2014 budget, which includes a $50 billion infusion to fix the nation’s most deficient bridges, airports and transit systems, keeping in line with President Obama’s fix it first concept for infrastructure investment. “The Senate budget tackles our deficit and debt the way the American people have told us they want it done: with a balanced mix of responsible spending cuts and new revenue from the wealthiest Americans and biggest corporations,” the budget document said. The House passed Rep. Paul Ryan’s (R-WI) budget earlier in March. The budget passed with a vote of 221-207. Instead of calling for an overhaul in how we fund infrastructure, the [Ryan budget](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Path_to_Prosperity "The Path to Prosperity") intends for the federal government to only spend what the gas tax brings in rather than continue to supplement the [Highway Trust Fund](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Highway_Trust_Fund "Highway Trust Fund") with general fund transfers. This direction would effectively cut about a third of federal government spending on surface transportation. Currently, the gap between what gets spent out of the Highway Trust Fund and what the trust fund brings in is around $15 billion a year. The House budget also identifies the U.S. Department of Transportation as a department that offers “a number of areas where spending could be cut back responsibly.” It goes on further to state that the federal formula for spending on surface transportation is “distorted, leading to imprudent, irresponsible and often downright wasteful spending.” The House Budget Resolution can be seen [here](http://budget.house.gov/uploadedfiles/2014_budget_resolution.pdf). The Senate Budget Resolution can be seen [here](http://budget.senate.gov/democratic/index.cfm/files/serve?File_id=c951a802-7600-4111-97c9-20bccc9c69d8). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20and%20Senate%20Pass%20Budget%20Resolutions%20for%202014&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, infrastructure, senate --- ### [Obama Expands on Infrastructure Plans](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obama-expands-on-infrastructure-plans/) **Published:** April 8, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) several weeks ago at the Port of Miami to make a renewed push for increased infrastructure investment. The President has been pushing for a more complete set of infrastructure proposals for years and even included the message in his State of the Union this past January. [![English: South façade of the White House, the ...](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/af/WhiteHouseSouthFacade.JPG/300px-WhiteHouseSouthFacade.JPG "English: South façade of the White House, the ...")](http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:WhiteHouseSouthFacade.JPG)Photo credit: WikipediaThe Obama Administration’s latest proposal includes: - A $10 billion **infrastructure bank** focused on national and regional significance, headed by an independent, bipartisan board. - **America Fast Forward bonds**, which would build off the success of Build America Bonds. The bonds would be structured to benefit investors, including pension funds that do not benefit from traditional tax-exempt debt, but the administration says its proposal is close to being revenue-neutral. - An increase in the cap on certain **private activity bonds**. In particular, no cap on the amount issued for water projects and a $4 billion increase up to $19 billion for highway and freight facilities. The bonds could also be used for privately owned airports, port facilities, and mass-transit commuting facilities. - A plan to make **foreign pension plans** tax exempt for infrastructure and other real property assets. Gains on those investments are now taxable at a 35 percent rate, while domestic pension funds are exempt from such taxes. As a result, big pension funds are not investing in the United States according to the administration. - An additional $4 billion injection into **TIGER grants** and the **TIFIA** (Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act) program in FY 2014. Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant funds were already expanded by MAP-21. While ASCE supports President Obama’s continued message of increased investments for infrastructure, his plan does not state how the federal government would pay for the proposal. Without a funding package plan in place the proposal will prove challenging to pass through the current Congress. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Obama%20Expands%20on%20Infrastructure%20Plans&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, infrastructure --- ### [The Panama Canal Expansion and Commerce](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-panama-canal-expansion-and-commerce/) **Published:** April 10, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Committee](http://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=Hearings&ContentRecord_id=138af407-9b48-4734-b602-a390e1f7902a&ContentType_id=14f995b9-dfa5-407a-9d35-56cc7152a7ed&Group_id=b06c39af-e033-4cba-9221-de668ca1978a) held a hearing this afternoon on the expansion of the Panama Canal and the effects that the expansion will have on freight movement in the United States. The issue is one that ASCE has been discussing in depth over the past few months, because the economic impacts could be severe. During the hearing Chairman Jay Rockefeller strongly stated that the United States has “grown accustomed to an ad-hoc approach to maintaining our surface transportation network”. He went on further to state that “this lack of planning and shortsighted thinking doesn’t reflect what our country truly needs: A strategic, long-term vision for rebuilding our transportation system.” Rockefeller finished his opening remarks declaring that without a vision and the ability to make tough choices, that the U.S. will end up burdened with “inadequate infrastructure” as the rest of the world continues investing. With the scheduled expansion of the Panama Canal by 2015, the average size of container ships is likely to increase significantly, affecting the operations at most of the major U.S. ports that handle containerized cargo and requiring both sectors to modernize. Needed investment in marine ports includes harbor and channel dredging, while inland waterways require new or rehabilitated lock and dam facilities. To remain competitive on a global scale, U.S. marine ports and inland waterways will require investment in the coming decades beyond the $14.4 billion currently expected. [ASCE report](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Failure-to-Act/Airports,-Inland-Waterways,-and-Marine-Ports/)s that with an additional investment of $15.8 billion between now and 2020, the U.S. can eliminate this drag on economic growth and protect: - $270 billion in U.S. exports - $697 billion in GDP - 738,000 jobs in 2020 - $872 billion in personal income, or $770 per year for households - Unless America’s infrastructure investment gaps are filled, transporting goods will become costlier, prices will rise, and the United States will become less competitive in the global market. As a result, employment, personal income, and GDP will all fall due to inaction. [ASCE’s full statement for the record can be seen here. ](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Testimony-and-Correspondence/Testimonies,-Statements-and-Letters-to-U-S--Congress/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Panama%20Canal%20Expansion%20and%20Commerce&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Panama%20Canal%20Expansion%20and%20Commerce "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Panama%20Canal%20Expansion%20and%20Commerce&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economics, infrastructure, ports, transportation --- ### [Obama FY14 Budget Proposal Focuses on Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obama-fy14-budget-proposal-focuses-on-infrastructure/) **Published:** April 12, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2014](http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget "FY14 Budget Proposal") this week that calls for spending of $3.77 trillion. The budget plan would reduce the federal deficit by $1.8 trillion over 10 years, the White House said. The FY 2014 budget proposal includes $50 billion for infrastructure investments, including $40 billion to cover what are called “Fix it First” projects; to invest in repairing highways, bridges, transit systems, and airports nationwide; and to provide $10 billion for competitive programs to encourage innovation in completing high-value infrastructure projects. “The budget invests in repairing our existing infrastructure and building the infrastructure of tomorrow, including high-speed rail, high-tech schools, and power grids that are resilient to future extreme conditions,” the White House added. “These investments will both lay the foundation for long-term economic growth and put workers back on the job now.” The president’s budget would reduce spending on other infrastructure, including programs designed to finance improvements to wastewater and drinking-water systems. The budget also seeks to restructure the current Highway Trust Fund by renaming it the Transportation Trust Fund and adding a dedicated funding source for rail. In regards to the Highway Trust Fund solvency, the budget proposes transferring $214 billion over six years to handle the issue and pay for increased outlays in the transportation bill after MAP-21 expires. This could set up the next reauthorization with funding levels 25% higher than its predecessor. However, there is no indication of how the expanded Trust Fund would remain solvent for the long term. The budget plan also includes $40 billion for rail over the next five years, focused on creating new corridors and improving current networks, including Amtrak. As part of the changes, the budget once again proposes to move Amtrak out from under the annual appropriations cycle and instead allow it to receive grants from the new transportation trust fund. For fiscal 2014, Amtrak would receive $2.7 billion, a large increase over last year’s $1.3 billion appropriation. The budget would also allocate $6.6 billion to the Federal Rail Administration, a large increase from the $1.7 billion it received in fiscal 2012. The Federal Aviation Administration would see a small increase under the FY 14 proposal with the President proposing $16.4 billion versus the $15.8 billion enacted last year. However, the capital grants program sees a cut in the Obama proposal with $2.9 billion for the Airport Improvement Program, compared with the $3.4 billion it received in FY13. To account for the cuts, large hub airports would be able to increase the non-federal Passenger Facility Charge; however there is no language on how much these fees can or should be increased. In a statement this week, ASCE Presdient Gregory E. DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, praised the 2014 budget proposal and its focus on investing in America’s transportation infrastructure: “The American Society of Civil Engineers applauds President Obama’s continued push for robust transportation funding, including $50 billion in immediate investments to address highway repair and construction, airports, rail projects and other transportation initiatives. “While this proposal certainly is a step in the right direction to bolster investment levels in transportation, it’s critical that the administration put forth a clear road map with long-term funding solutions. “In the 2013 [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org "2013 Report Card for America's Infrastructure"), we awarded our country a D+. [Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transit/ "2013 Report Card for America's Infrastructure Transit"), [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/roads/ "2013 Report Card for America's Infrastructure Roads") and [aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/aviation/ "2013 Report Card for America's Infrastructure Aviation") all received a dismal grade of D. These grades are unacceptable for our nation and must be backed by dedicated funding sources and innovative solutions at all levels of government if we hope to see improvements. “It’s time for all leaders from all parties to invest in America’s future to assure we have a strong foundation for an ever-changing 21st century economy.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Obama%20FY14%20Budget%20Proposal%20Focuses%20on%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Obama%20FY14%20Budget%20Proposal%20Focuses%20on%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Obama%20FY14%20Budget%20Proposal%20Focuses%20on%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation --- ### [Alabama Needs a State Dam Safety Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-dam-safety-program/) **Published:** April 17, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Engineers. Originally published in the Birmingham News, April 13, 2013.* Alabama continues to be the only state in the country without a state dam safety program. We do not know precisely how many dams we actually have, much less their condition. That is unacceptable for our state and unacceptable for Alabama’s security, public safety, and ultimately the economy. This week, Congressman Patrick Maloney (D-NY) introduced the National Dam Safety Act of 2013. The dam safety re-authorization would provide grants for inspections, research, and public awareness to the 49 states that currently have a dam safety program, meaning Alabama is the only state not eligible for any of these funds. As our nation takes this critical step, it should serve as a stark reminder that, when considering dam safety, our state is woefully behind the rest of the country. In the recently released 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") awarded our country’s infrastructure a D+. The 2013 Report Card is a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s infrastructure across 16 sectors and also includes the amount of investment required to make the necessary improvements. The grades are quite similar to those in most education systems, A’s are great and D’s are poor. Updated once every four years, this year’s Report Card found that America’s infrastructure actually went up from a D grade in 2009. The cost to bring all categories up to a B level by 2020 would cost the nation $3.6 trillion between now and 2020. Despite the improvement, a D+ is unacceptable. We must find ways to raise the grade and act now. The 2013 Report Card awarded our nation’s Dams a D. Currently the average age of the 84,000 dams in the country is 52 years old and the total number of high-hazard dams continues to rise. It is important to understand that high-hazard refers to the strong likelihood of significant economic losses and potential loss of human life if a dam fails. To repair just the nation’s aging, high-hazard dams the Association of State Dam Safety Officials estimates that it will require an investment of $21 billion. While the 2013 Report Card paints a poor picture for the country, it paints an even worse scenario for Alabama in the category of dams. In our state, we cannot begin to calculate our needs because we have no entity responsible for accounting for this critical infrastructure. Alabama’s state legislature should at the very least act to take an inventory of dams in the state and assess their potential risk to life and property. How can Alabama hope to build a 21st century economy when we do not have the regulations in place to secure and protect our communities and neighborhoods? Many states did not enact legislation for dam safety until loss of life and significant property and infrastructure damage occurred. Dam failures have occurred in Alabama, many more near failures have occurred than anyone can account for. Without regulations in place, there is no requirement to report the incidents. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to act before a major disaster occurs. We should learn from the experiences of other states and act swiftly to protect our citizens as well as our economy. Strong infrastructure is linked to a strong economy. Better roads and bridges mean businesses can move goods more efficiently, decreasing costs, and reducing prices. More capable businesses create greater profits, which in turn creates new jobs and opportunities for economic growth. Companies want to do business in states with reliable infrastructure. If they have to worry about roads being closed, ports being unable to move their goods, or the energy grid failing, then businesses will take their jobs elsewhere. And when a dam fails, critical infrastructure is put into jeopardy, costing businesses and Alabamians thousands, while also putting the public at a great, and arguably unnecessary, risk. The state of Alabama is not keeping pace with other states, and the fact that we do not even have the regulatory processes in place to account for our state’s dams is unacceptable. We must take the next step in at least knowing where all of our dams are located and determine their condition. This will by no means change our fortunes overnight, but it will at the very least allow Alabama to compete on the same level as the rest of the country. 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The webinar focused on the 2013 Report Card on America’s Infrastructure and how state governments can use the data contained in the Report Card in order to help improve their local infrastructure. Notable participants included Michigan’s Secretary of Transportation Kirk Stedule who is not only a P.E. but an ASCE member. Visit [CSG’s Knowledge Center ](http://knowledgecenter.csg.org/kc/content/csg-webinar-report-card-americas-infrastructure-april-4-2013 "REport Card Webinar available from CSG")in order to download the audio portion of the webinar and the slides. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Educates%20State%20Officials%20on%20the%20Report%20Card%2C%20You%20Can%20get%20the%20Same%20Information%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** continuing education, infrastructure report card --- ### [Obama’s FY 2014 Priorities STEM Education Programs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/obamas-fy-2014-priorities-stem-education-programs/) **Published:** April 19, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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STEM (Science-Technology- Education-Mathematics) education. The total [STEM education](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/STEM_fields "STEM fields") funding request, across all federals agencies, amounts to $3.1 billion; this represents an increase of 6.7 percent over 2012 funding levels. While the proposed increase is noteworthy, the President’s proposal includes an ambitious reorganization of federal STEM programs. The major components include consolidation or elimination of 114 federal STEM programs. This would bring the total down from 226 to 112. Specifically 78 programs are terminated with funds redirected to other agencies (this totals $176 million). The breakdown by Agency of targeted programs and the expected savings: - [Department of Defense](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.8709888889,-77.0559611111&spn=0.01,0.01&q=38.8709888889,-77.0559611111%20(United%20States%20Department%20of%20Defense)&t=h "United States Department of Defense"): 6 programs (out of 16) – $49.4 million - [National Aeronautics and Space Administration](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.8830555556,-77.0163888889&spn=0.01,0.01&q=38.8830555556,-77.0163888889%20(NASA)&t=h "NASA") (NASA): 38 programs (out of 61) – $47.5 million - [National Institutes of Health](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=39.000443,-77.102394&spn=1.0,1.0&q=39.000443,-77.102394%20(National%20Institutes%20of%20Health)&t=h "National Institutes of Health") (NIH): 9 programs (out of 24) – $27.6 million - [Environmental Protection Agency](http://www.epa.gov "United States Environmental Protection Agency") (EPA): 2 programs (out of 7) – $16.1 million - [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration](http://www.noaa.gov "National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration") (NOAA): 6 programs (out of 15) – $13.0 million - Department of Agriculture (USDA): 6 programs (out of 16) – $10.9 million - Department of Energy: 8 programs (out of 18) – $10.9 million - [Department of Homeland Security](http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=38.9380555556,-77.0822222222&spn=0.01,0.01&q=38.9380555556,-77.0822222222%20(United%20States%20Department%20of%20Homeland%20Security)&t=h "United States Department of Homeland Security"): 1 program (out of 3) – $1.0 million - [Nuclear Regulatory Commission](http://www.nrc.gov "Nuclear Regulatory Commission"): 1 program (out of 3) – less than $0 million Of the $176 million in funds from the 78 terminated programs $100.3 million would be moved to K-12 STEM programing at the Department of Education, $25 million would be moved to the Smithsonian for a new STEM engagement initiative, and o $51.1 million is moved to the NSF for STEM undergraduate education and fellowship programs. The STEM Education Coalition, of which [ASCE](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") is a founder and steering committee member, is currently preparing a response to the Administration’s proposal. While unlikely to comment on the elimination of specific programs, the Coalition, with ASCE’s support, will respond favorably to the proposal. The Coalition strongly supported federal leadership and funding for K-12 math and science programs, however 226 programs across multiple federal agency clearly do not represent a national focus. While agencies like NASA clearly have an educational role to play, the existing 61 programs seem excessive. What does this have to do with infrastructure? Engineers, as the profession most responsible for the nation’s build environment, have a responsibility to ensure that the next generation of engineers will be ready to face the challenges of the future. Our education system is not meeting the needs of our increasingly technological society. Many elementary, middle, and high school students do not receive adequate instruction, inspiration, and information in order to pursue STEM disciplines, such that the possibility of studying engineering at the college level is effectively precluded. Students who have the aptitude to be successful engineers never have an opportunity to develop an interest in this career path. Consequently, too few well-qualified students are pursuing careers in civil engineering. The President’s proposal does face many hurdles, not the least of which is that fact that it needs the consent of Congress. Even before the House and Senate can consider the proposal, each chamber’s authorizing committees will have to weigh in. Given the number and range of departments and agencies involved, Obama will need to gain approval of at least half the Committees in both the House and Senate, a very tall order. However, it is a start. 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That it was first proposed by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin? That Senator Nelson was inspired by campus activism on the late 1960’s? Learn all about the history of Earth Day [here.](http://www.nelsonearthday.net/index.htm "Nelson Earth Day") The first Earth Day led to the creation of the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the passage of the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species Acts. Earth Day went global in 1990, mobilizing 200 million people in 141 countries and elevating environmental issues to the world stage. Earth Day 1990 gave a huge boost to recycling efforts worldwide and helped pave the way for the 1992 United Nations Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. It also prompted President Bill Clinton to award Senator Nelson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1995 – the highest honor given to civilians in the United States – for his role as Earth Day founder. Learn about what ASCE is doing to encourage sustainable civil engineering practices on the sustainability section of the [ASCE Web site.](http://www.asce.org/sustainability/ "ASCE Sustainability") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Happy%20Earth%20Day%20from%20ASCE%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Happy%20Earth%20Day%20from%20ASCE%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Happy%20Earth%20Day%20from%20ASCE%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** sustainability --- ### [ASCE Statement on the Nomination of Mayor Anthony Foxx for Transportation Secretary](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-nomination-of-mayor-anthony-foxx-for-transportation-secretary/) **Published:** April 29, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, president of The [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") (ASCE), regarding the nomination of Charlotte Mayor [Anthony Foxx](http://www.anthonyfoxx.com/ "Anthony Foxx") for [U.S. Transportation Secretary](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Secretary_of_Transportation "United States Secretary of Transportation"): “We are very encouraged by Mayor Foxx’s nomination. Now is the time to reaffirm our commitment to improving our nation’s infrastructure and building a 21stcentury [![English: Anthony Foxx, Democrat, mayor of Char...](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/ce/MayorAnthonyFoxx.jpg/300px-MayorAnthonyFoxx.jpg "English: Anthony Foxx, Democrat, mayor of Char...")](http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:MayorAnthonyFoxx.jpg)Anthony Foxx, Democrat, mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina. Taken during his 2009 campaign for mayor. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)American economy. During Secretary LaHood’s tenure, we saw our nation’s infrastructure grade rise from a D in 2009 to a D+ in our 2013 Report Card. The number of structurally deficient bridges is on the decline and the number of highway fatalities has decreased over the past five years. Yet, it is clear there is much more work to be done. While Secretary LaHood’s efforts have been successful, we urge Mayor Foxx to remember the simple lesson of the 2013 Report Card: where we invest, we see results.” “As mayor of Charlotte, NC, Mayor Foxx has invested in transit infrastructure, helping the city to grow. Likewise, Mayor Foxx has continued to expand *Charlotte Douglas* International Airport, helping to bring in international businesses to the city of Charlotte. Mayor Foxx clearly knows the link infrastructure investment has to economic growth, and we hope he continues to push for similar investments on a national scale. We look forward to working with him to continue to raise the grades for America’s infrastructure. ” In the recently released 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers awarded our nation’s Roads a D, Bridges a C+, Transit a D, Rail a C+, and our Aviation sector a D. Learn more about the facts behind the grades and download the app at [infrastructurereportcard.org](https://infrastructurereportcard.org). \### Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 140,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org). 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Named](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/former-usdot-heads-offer-advice-while-new-appointee-is-named/) **Published:** April 30, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Former%20USDOT%20Heads%20Offer%20Advice%20While%20New%20Appointee%20Is%20Named&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Former%20USDOT%20Heads%20Offer%20Advice%20While%20New%20Appointee%20Is%20Named "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Former%20USDOT%20Heads%20Offer%20Advice%20While%20New%20Appointee%20Is%20Named&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In a serendipitous coincidence, six of America’s former Secretaries of the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) gathered for the [Goode Transportation Policy Conference](http://millercenter.org/conferences/2013/transportation) less than 10 minutes away from the White House where President Obama was announcing his new nominee for Secretary of Transportation, Charlotte Mayor Anthony Foxx. Here’s what the former secretaries had to say both to the new nominee and about the President’s they served: **What advice would these former DOT heads have for the nominee who comes behind them?** **“**Perhaps start with ‘Our Father who art in heaven,’” joked Norman Mineta, Secretary of Transportation from 2001- 2006 under Bush. All six former Secretaries reiterated the same theme – take the lessons you learned from the outside but come to D.C. knowing that the USDOT staff are ready and able to advise on a successful path. Andrew Card, former Secretary of Transportation under President Bush mentioned that keeping peripheral vision as a leader can be challenging but important to achieving the goals you set out. Former Secretary Mary Peters, also under Bush, spoke to the need to set a “north star” for the staff in order to achieve what’s needed in the short timeframe before the next transportation bill. **What conversations did former Secretaries have with their President to set the agenda?** Former Secretary Rodney Slater who lead the USDOT during President Clinton’s mantra of “It’s the economy stupid” said that aligning their agenda to the President’s began with shifting how they even talked about transportation. During a time of reinventing government, the USDOT agenda was about what connected us and what moves us forward as a country emphasizing how we use transportation to connect people to opportunities and how transportation gives us an easy reach to markets, both globally and locally. However, not every Secretary had a direct conversation with the President to set their agenda. After working for President Reagan for years, former Secretary James Burnley knew exactly what the priorities were. However, they worked closely on some interesting discussions that are still relevant today including where the air traffic control division would be spun off of FAA similar to Canada. **Want to find out more?** [Read the President’s Announcement of Foxx](http://www.politico.com/story/2013/04/obama-nominates-anthony-foxx-as-transportation-secretary-transcript-90747.html) [Read the Miller Center’s Reports on Transportation Policy](http://millercenter.org/conferences/2013/transportation) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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--- ### [Senate to Take Up Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-to-take-up-wrda/) **Published:** May 6, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20to%20Take%20Up%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20%28WRDA%29&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fupload.wikimedia.org%2Fwikipedia%2Fcommons%2Fthumb%2F7%2F7f%2FPort_of_Miami_Florida.jpg%2F300px-Port_of_Miami_Florida.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20to%20Take%20Up%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20%28WRDA%29 "Share on 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...")](http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Port_of_Miami_Florida.jpg)(Photo credit: Wikipedia)The Senate is expected to take up the [Water Resources Development Act](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_Resources_Development_Act "Water Resources Development Act") (WRDA) when Senators return to Washington today. At this time, [Majority Leader](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Majority_leader "Majority leader") Harry Reid (D-NV) has said that he will hold a [cloture vote](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloture "Cloture") on the legislation Monday evening. Cloture requires 60 votes and limits debate in order to block an attempt at a filibuster. [ASCE strongly urges the Senate](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Senate%20Letter%20Urging%20WRDA%20Passage%20050113.pdf) to take up and pass S.601, the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2013. ASCE’s 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* graded the nation’s ports a “**C**”, inland waterways a “**D-**”, dams a “**D**”, and levees a “**D-**”. Our nation’s water resources infrastructure is critical to our economy, public safety, and the preservation and enhancement of our environmental resources. In fact, ASCE’s *Failure to Act* economic study on the nation’s marine ports and inland waterways shows that underinvesting in just these two sectors threatens more than 1 million U.S. jobs and $270 billion in U.S. exports by 2020. The current Senate bill makes a strong commitment to our nation’s critical water resources infrastructure and ASCE strongly supports language that: - Creates a National Levee Safety Program; - Reauthorizes the National Dam Safety Program; - Restores trust to the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund; - Creates a new Water Infrastructure Finance Innovations Authority (WIFIA); and - Streamlines the project approval process for water resources projects. During debate ASCE urges the Senate to consider a nine cent increase in the user fee for the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF). The IWTF, which was created in 1978, now funds half the cost of new construction and major rehabilitation of the inland waterway infrastructure. Increasing the user fee on the inland waterways system from 20 cents per gallon to 29 cents is long overdue and will allow for an increase in overall spending on the system. ASCE Key Contacts should reach out to their Senators and urge them to [support WRDA when it reaches the Senate floor](http://capwiz.com/asce/home/). 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Champion of Change](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineer-and-inventor-john-hillman-named-by-white-house-as-transportation-champion-of-change/) **Published:** May 8, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Now imagine all of this being accomplished by one individual – civil engineer John Hillman. In a White House ceremony today, Hillman and 10 other notable individuals were recognized as [Transportation Champions of Change](http://www.whitehouse.gov/champions) for their exemplary work and leadership in developing and implementing transportation technology solutions to enhance performance, reduce congestion, improve safety and facilitate communication across the transportation industry at the local, state and national levels. A structural engineer with more than 27 years of experience, Hillman’s more noteworthy achievements include managing the construction of a 1,263-foot incrementally launched bridge in Puerto Rico and the design and management of the award-winning 35th Street pedestrian bridge over Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, Ill. He has also been the engineer of record for almost every type of bridge structure imaginable, including a cable-stay, an arch, a truss and a suspension bridge, as well as numerous conventional structures. Despite an impressive array of world-class bridge designs, Hillman’s crowning achievement is the invention of the Hybrid-Composite Beam (HCB®), a new type of structural beam developed for use in bridges and other structures. This unique technology is a tied arch of concrete and steel contained in a composite shell that optimizes the structural performance of each material in the composition. What results is an economical structural beam for railroads, highways and marine structures that offers a service life of more than 100 years. The HCB provides for an economical application of advanced composites in infrastructure bridge technology, resulting in bridges that are stronger, safer, lighter, faster to install and much more sustainable than conventional bridge technologies. To date, 24 HCB bridges have been constructed in seven different states, with many more in various stages of planning, design and construction. According to Hillman, he became a civil engineer because he loves building things. He said he gravitated towards bridges because literally and figuratively he gets to help people stay connected. Hillman’s goal with the invention and development of the HCB is to provide a revolutionary bridge technology that not only remedies the state of the nation’s decaying bridges, but also provides a solution to the problem that will reduce the burden of infrastructure rehabilitation costs for future generations. [Here’s a video about other Champions of Change featuring an ASCE Past President, Kathy Caldwell.](http://youtu.be/zGDnsCvNGq8) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The legislation provides [much needed improvements](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) to locks, dams, levees, and other waterway elements across the country through the authorization of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers programs. The first hurdle for the bill, a vote on cloture, proved moot when Senators were able to provide unanimous consent to see the legislation move forward for debate Monday night. The reason for agreement was a manager’s amendment that Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Ranking Member David Vitter (R-LA) put out, resolving some areas of concern that Senators had already voiced. One of the biggest changes in the manger’s amendment ensures revenues collected into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) are used for intended purposes by gradually increasing the authorization level for the Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) spending until an authorization level equivalent to full use is achieved in **2020**. The guarantee for full HMT revenue use, included in the Committee-passed bill, was removed due to the Appropriations Committee’s objection. The manager’s amendment continues to cite that the increased appropriations cannot be achieved if funding is reduced in other areas of the Corps budget, but the point of order related to this provision was also removed. For FY 2014, the appropriation would be $1 billion, with an additional $100,000 provided each fiscal year thereafter. If this agreement is included in the final bill, it would result in a 14-15% increase in funds for FY 2014. At this time [ASCE asks Key Contacts to call their Senators and urge them to support WRDA](http://capwiz.com/asce/home/). [ASCE has been an advocate](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Senate%20Letter%20Urging%20WRDA%20Passage%20050113.pdf) of the legislation and is pleased with several aspects of the bill including: the creation of a National Levee Safety Program, the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, the restoration of trust in the the HMTF, and efforts to streamline the project delivery process. Currently it looks like the bill will come up for a final vote next week, so Senators need to hear from their constituents NOW. 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email")](mailto:?subject=WRDA%20on%20Senate%20Floor%E2%80%A6Call%20Your%20Senator%20Today%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, dams, ports --- ### [Draft Bill Would Change Long Established Peer Review For NSF Research](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/draft-bill-would-change-long-established-peer-review-for-nsf-research/) **Published:** May 13, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Draft%20Bill%20Would%20Change%20Long%20Established%20Peer%20Review%20For%20NSF%20Research&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Draft legislation is being circulated by new [House Science Committee](http://science.house.gov "United States House Committee on Science, Space and Technology") Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) which would require all research funded by the [National Science Foundation (NSF)](http://www.nsf.gov/ "National Science Foundation") to be certified to “advance the national health, prosperity, or welfare” and “secure the national defense” of the United States. The NSF must certify that each funded project is of “the finest quality, is groundbreaking, and answers questions or solves problems that are of utmost importance to society of large.” [![English: , member of the United States House o...](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/63/Lamar_S._Smith%2C_official_Congressional_photo_portrait.jpg/300px-Lamar_S._Smith%2C_official_Congressional_photo_portrait.jpg "English: , member of the United States House o...")](http://commons.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lamar_S._Smith%2C_official_Congressional_photo_portrait.jpg)House Science Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-TX) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)The draft legislation has drawn a vigorous response from the scientific committee. A letter to Smith from six former NSF Directors stated, “ We believe that this draft legislation would replace the current merit-based system used to evaluate research and education proposals with a cumbersome and unrealistic certification process that rather than improving the quality of research would do just the opposite. The history of science and technology has shown that truly basic research often yields breakthroughs – including new technologies, markets and jobs – but that it is impossible to predict which projects (and which fields) will do that. Progress in science requires freedom to explore important questions regardless of where the answers may lead. Over the years, federal funding of basic research, using peer review evaluation, has led to vast improvements in health care, national security, and economic development.” The draft also drew a sharp response from Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) the top Democrat on the Committee. In a letter to Smith, Johnson called the draft legislation “the first step on a path that would destroy the merit-based review process at NSF and intrudes political pressure into what is widely viewed as the most effective and creative process for awarding research funds in the world. It is this process that has supported the growth of the American research university system, and it is this process that has established the American research enterprise as innovation of our age.” [ASCE](http://www.asce.org/ "American Society of Civil Engineers") has joined with other scientific and engineering organizations in a letter to Smith urging him to withdraw the proposed legislation. [A copy of the current draft of the legislation is here](http://news.sciencemag.org/scienceinsider/HQRA13_001_xml.pdf). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Draft%20Bill%20Would%20Change%20Long%20Established%20Peer%20Review%20For%20NSF%20Research&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, national science foundation, stem --- ### [Senate Passes WRDA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-passes-wrda/) **Published:** May 15, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Passes%20WRDA&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE applauds the Senate today for passing the Water Resources Development Act (S. 601). The 83 – 14 vote on final passage caps off a huge bipartisan effort from Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Ranking Member David Vitter (R-LA). The final $12 billion package includes several of ASCE top priorities for WRDA such as the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, the creation of a National Levee Safety Program, the eventual move toward trust in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, and reforms to accelerate project review and delivery. With Senate passage, attention now turns to the House, where things are moving at a slower pace. Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) has said his committee hopes to produce a bill by “summer-ish”, while some Republican aides have said that the committee hopes to take action in June on a WRDA package. For now ASCE is pleased to see that WRDA is out of the Senate and urges the House to not be too far behind. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Washington%20State%20Report%20Card%20Released%20Today%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D8c85f1cd-277b-40a4-95a6-32ff01801491&p%5Btitle%5D=Washington%20State%20Report%20Card%20Released%20Today%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Washington%20State%20Report%20Card%20Released%20Today%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Washington’s transportation [infrastructure](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Infrastructure "Infrastructure") has significant needs according to a new report by the [Seattle Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers](http://seattleasce.org/) (ASCE). The new report, titled the *2013 Report Card for Washington’s Infrastructure,* awarded [Washington State’s](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_%28state%29 "Washington (state)") infrastructure a C due to a lack of planned funding and inadequate maintenance. “We cannot hope to have an A+ economy, with a C level infrastructure,” said James Chae, P.E., M.ASCE, president of the Seattle Section. “Washingtonians need to realize that our ailing infrastructure hurts our wallets and our livelihoods. In fact, travel delays cost Washington State drivers and businesses more than 32 million hours a year, valued at over $1.1 billion annually.” According to the Report Card, Washington’s [roads and transit](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roads_and_Transit "Roads and Transit") systems performed the worst of all evaluated sectors, both returning scores of **D+**. Nine different categories were graded: - **Aviation** earned a **C** grade as aging facilities, cumbersome land-use policies, and a lack of available funds have detrimental impacts on Washington’s aviation system. - **Bridges** were awarded a **C-**, in part due to the nearly 400 structurally deficient bridges in Washington State. 36 percent of Washington’s bridges are past their design life of 50 years. - **[Dams](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dam "Dam")** earned the highest grade in the Report Card: a **B**. However, close to 40 percent of Washington’s dams are categorized as significant or high hazard dams. A large proportion of dams in Washington are over 50 years old, and development downstream of many dams has significantly increased since the dams were built. - **Drinking** **Water** earned a **C-**. While only a small percentage of the state’s population is served by smaller water systems serving 25 people or less, they account for 85 percent of the state’s water systems and are only regulated at the county level. - **Rail** was awarded a **C-**, due to the concerning condition of some congested corridors and short line rails. By 2030, $2 billion worth of improvements are needed and 90 percent of these projects are unfunded. - **Roads** earned one of the lowest grades in the Report Card: a **D+**. The system, much of which was built 50 to 60 years ago, is struggling under increasing traffic and financial pressure. Reduced maintenance has caused an 11 percent increase in state highway paving backlog and a 32 percent decrease in county road paving. - **Schools** were awarded a mediocre grade of **C**, in part due to the fact that by 2018, 56 districts are anticipated to be under capacity by about 50,000 students. During the last decade, districts who attempt to raise capital for school facilities locally have faced a 50% failure rate with voters. - **Solid** **Waste/Hazardous** **Waste** earned a **C**. Over 16 million tons of waste was generated in Washington by citizens, industry, and manufacturing in 2010. - **Transit** earned a **D+** grade, in part due to the pace of transit maintenance and expansion not keeping up as transit competes for scarce transportation dollars at the state and federal level. To learn more, please visit [infrastructurereportcard.org/washington/washington-overview/](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/washington/washington-overview/) [![Enhanced by Zemanta](http://img.zemanta.com/zemified_e.png?x-id=8c85f1cd-277b-40a4-95a6-32ff01801491)](http://www.zemanta.com/?px "Enhanced by Zemanta") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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--- ### [Kansas and Missouri Both Earn C- in New State Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kansas-and-missouri-earn-matching-c-s-in-new-state-report-cards/) **Published:** May 22, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Kansas%20and%20Missouri%20Both%20Earn%20C-%20in%20New%20State%20Report%20Cards&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F02%2FWastewater1-400x400.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Kansas%20and%20Missouri%20Both%20Earn%20C-%20in%20New%20State%20Report%20Cards 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Today marks the release of both the [*2013 Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/missouri/missouri-overview/) and the [*2013 Report Card for Kansas’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kansas/kansas-overview/). Engineers in each state spent the last year analyzing 9 and 11 categories in Kansas and Missouri respectively, assigning cumulative grades of C- for both. [![KS Report Card Cover 2013](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Wastewater1-400x400.png "Wastewater1")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kansas/kansas-overview/) Tom Jacobs, P.E., Report Card Committee Co-Chair for Kansas, accompanied the news by impressing upon elected officials the need to do better. “To our elected officials I only ask this question: is a C- good enough? I certainly hope not. We did not elect you to build a C- state. Our roads, levees, bridges and dams need long-term investment in order to have long-term success.” “Our state’s future is dependent upon whether we can attract businesses and allow them to thrive” said Steve Randolph, P.E., President of the ASCE St. Louis Section. “A C- means that businesses cannot reliably and effectively move goods in an ever-changing global marketplace. If we are serious about creating jobs and building a strong economy, then we must also be serious about investing in our infrastructure.” Each state’s grade was the aggregate of various individual sectors, ranging from Aviation and Energy, to Levees and Wastewater. The grades for each state are broken down as follows: **KANSAS** - **Aviation** earned a **C**. Twenty-five percent of Kansas’ airports with paved runways need improvement. System-wide, only 36 percent of Kansas airports meet the benchmark for clear approaches to the primary runway. - **Bridges** were awarded a **D+**, in part due to Kansas’s nearly 3,000 structurally deficient bridges. Only five states have more structurally deficient bridges than Kansas. - **Dams** earned the lowest grade of a **D-**. Of the state’s 6,087 dams, 230 are classified as high hazard, meaning failure would likely lead to loss of life and significant property damage. - **Drinking** **Water** earned a **C**. Presently, there are no dedicated revenue streams to support the necessary funding to support the Kansas’ Water Plan initiatives. - **Energy** was awarded a **C-**. Kansas ranks in the top ten for crude oil production and has one of the richest natural gas fields in the United States. - **Levees** earned a **C-**, in part due to the fact that there are no consistent standards or regulations governing the maintenance and ongoing inspection of levees in the State. - **Railroads** earned a **C**. Kansas has the sixth largest rail system in the United States. Funding sources for the long-term investments have not been identified yet. - **Roads** earned the highest grade of a **C+**. A decrease in federal and state funding levels has a direct impact on the quality of roads in Kansas, from safety to pavement condition. - **Schools** earned a **C+**. There was a huge expansion in the 1950s where the amount of schools in Kansas more than doubled. These building are now 60 years old and many are in need of major repair or replacement. **[![2013 Report Card for Missouri's Infrastructure](/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/MO-RC-Cover-2013.jpg "Missouri Report Card Release2")](/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/MO-RC-Cover-2013.jpg)MISSOURI** - **Aviation** earned a **C** grade, in part due to the fact that over the next five years, a shortfall of slightly more than $81 million is anticipated for MO’s aviation sector. - **Bridges** was awarded a **C-**.Missouri has 339 functionally obsolete bridges (12 percent of Missouri’s bridge inventory). Missouri has the 19th lowest percentage in the country. - **Dams** received the lowest grade of **D-**. Missouri has 1,588 high hazard dams (meaning failure would likely lead to loss of life and significant property damage), and 3,511 significant or low hazard dams. - **Drinking** **Water** earned a **C-**. Even though Missouri has an abundance of water for serving its communities, its aging water treatment and distribution systems are struggling to keep up with current demand. - **Energy** earned a **D+**. Missouri’s shift away from coal and toward more sustainable energy systems, is requiring increased investment in generation facilities, transmission and distribution networks. - **Inland** **Waterways** was awarded a **D**. Each year the Missouri River carries 8 million tons of cargo, throughout its navigable length. The Mississippi River carries 58 million tons to the mouth of the Missouri River, and 189 million tons to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. - **Levees** were awarded a **C-**. It is estimated that 85 percent of Missouri’s levees are not a part of the National Levee Database. - **Railroads** received a **C**. In order to meet future travel demands, greater funding and much greater support from the State will be necessary. - **Roads** earned a **C**. The last time the state of Missouri passed a piece of transportation funding-related legislation was in 2004. The funding generated by the bill allowed for 2,200 miles of the state’s busiest highways to be smoother and safer, sped up 55 critical highway projects and allowed $1.6 billion in new construction. - **Schools** earned a **C**, in part due to education budget cuts and a lack of long-term funding. - **Wastewater** earned a **C-**. The state of Missouri has a network of established wastewater systems that have been functionally serving citizens for over 50 years in some locations. Follow the links to read more about the [2013 Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/missouri/missouri-overview/) or the [2013 Report Card for Kansas’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kansas/kansas-overview/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Delaney%20Introduces%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Congressman John Delaney today introduced the bipartisan [Partnership to Build America Act](http://delaney.house.gov/information-on-congressman-delaneys-infrastructure-bill). The legislation would finance the rebuilding of our country’s transportation, energy, communications, water, and education infrastructure through the creation of the American Infrastructure Fund (AIF) by using repatriated corporate earnings as well as through utilizing public-private partnerships. The AIF would provide loans or guarantees to state or local governments to finance qualified infrastructure projects and is estimated to leverage an initial $50 billion at a 15:1 ratio, therefore providing $750 million in investment. ASCE strongly supports the Partnership to Build America Act as one way to deal with the nation’s ever growing infrastructure challenges. By creating an infrastructure fund using repatriated corporate earnings, as well as through the use of public-private partnerships, the legislation is creating another innovative financing source for our nation’s infrastructure. It will take innovative financing, to work in partnership with more traditional funding mechanisms in order to raise the grades for our nation’s infrastructure. Furthermore, improving the condition of our nation’s aging roads, bridges, power lines, sewer systems, ports and waterways is critical to protecting 3.5 million jobs according to ASCE’s report, [Failure to Act: The Impact of Current Infrastructure Investment on America’s Economic Future](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). If investments in infrastructure aren’t made at this time, families will have a lower standard of living, businesses will be paying more and producing less and our nation will lose ground in a global economy. The nation’s deteriorating infrastructure will cost the American families $3,100 annually in lost income and suppress the growth of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by $3.1 trillion by 2020. Therefore, it is critical for Congress to continue to find new, and innovative ways, to invest in infrastructure programs. ASCE looks forward to working with Congress on the passage of the Partnership to Build America Act and applauds Congressman Delaney for continuing the conversation on how we invest in the nation’s infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Delaney%20Introduces%20Bipartisan%20Infrastructure%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, infrastructure --- ### [House Subcommittee Grills Amtrak over Federal Subsidies and Operating Losses](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-subcommittee-grills-amtrak-over-federal-subsidies-and-operating-losses/) **Published:** May 24, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials heard testimony on Tuesday from witnesses regarding federal subsidies for passenger rail service provided by Amtrak. Over the past few years, Amtrak’s ridership has increased dramatically, increasing the revenue stream, and reducing reliance on federal subsidies. Despite these improvements coming from the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act (PRIIA), Amtrak was $600 million in the red this past year, and the losses incurred by long-distance rail routes actually increased by 11%. Joseph Boardman, CEO of Amtrak, in detailing some of the major cost drivers for Amtrak, pointed to rising labor costs as a primary factor in Amtrak’s costs. According to his testimony to the Subcommittee, between 50% and 66% of all Amtrak’s costs come from the payment of wages and benefits. These costs are going to continue to increase as Amtrak is currently in negotiation with the unions to provide a 15% pay increase to crewmembers over the next five years. However, revenue is on the uptick for Amtrak. Under PRIIA, the federal government mandated that states would be required to contribute to funding for Amtrak, relieving some of the burden from the federal government. In 2013, states contributed just under $200 million. That amount is projected to increase to over $300 million in 2014. Mr. Boardman heavily emphasized the importance of maintaining funding for long-distance railroads, pointing out that in almost half of the system—223 of the 500 stations and 23 of the 46 states — long-distance railroads are the only rail service provided. Because these routes cross state boundaries and are essential to the cohesion of the whole rail system, Mr. Boardman declared that maintaining them was “clearly a federal responsibility.” Ross Capon, CEO of the National Association of Railroad Passengers, also emphasized the importance of federal subsidies. He pointed out that, even though the Northeast Corridor is one of the only profitable sections of Amtrak, it is at or near capacity, and without government dollars, he predicted a rapid “death spiral” for it were those funds to be removed. Pointed questions came from many members of the committee, including former Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman John Mica. Calling Amtrak a “Soviet style rail system,” Mica suggested that as long as it continued in this fashion, Amtrak would never be able to show a profit. He then pointed out that in many sections of the system, the loss per person to the federal government had actually increased between 2011 and 2012. Representative Hanna followed by asking why if ridership was increasing and demand was inflexible with regards to price, there remained a preference to rely on federal subsidies to maintain low fares instead of raising prices. Ross Capon and Joseph Boardman agreed that prices were high enough currently that any further increase in price would drive passengers away. While challenges remain, the hearing showed that by controlling for its main cost drivers, perhaps Amtrak can keep showing progress towards breaking even. Photo courtesy: http://netrightdaily.com/2011/01/dont-subsidize-amtrak-just-let-the-free-market-work/ [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Subcommittee%20Grills%20Amtrak%20over%20Federal%20Subsidies%20and%20Operating%20Losses&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Subcommittee%20Grills%20Amtrak%20over%20Federal%20Subsidies%20and%20Operating%20Losses "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Subcommittee%20Grills%20Amtrak%20over%20Federal%20Subsidies%20and%20Operating%20Losses&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Can Smart Growth Strategies Save Money for Cities?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/can-smart-growth-strategies-save-money-for-cities/) **Published:** May 30, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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modernize their infrastructure, a new study suggests that smart growth development can help the bottom line. Recently Smart Growth experts compiled results from 17 studies, showing the revenue potential of “smart growth” development strategies. The [new report, *Building Better Budgets: A National Examination of the Fiscal Benefits of Smart Growth Development*](http://www.smartgrowthamerica.org/documents/building-better-budgets.pdf), provided three major conclusions about smart growth development: 1\. It costs about one-third less for upfront infrastructure. [![Courtesy of Flickr/adrimcm](/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Flickr-Smart-Growth.jpg "Flickr Smart Growth")](http://www.flickr.com/photos/adrimcm/5465267335/sizes/l/in/photostream/)Suterbrook Village An Island of Urbanity that Actually Works2\. It saves an average of 10 percent on ongoing delivery of services. 3\. It generates 10 times more tax revenue per acre than conventional suburban development. These advantages to smart growth development primarily came from efficiencies of the design. For example, smart growth tends to decrease the need for more lane miles of road, water and sewer pipes, fewer traffic lights and can decrease the costs of providing services like fire trucks, plows, and police since they all travel less in Smart Growth areas. In Nashville, Tennessee, a survey showed that costs for fire service per house can drop from over $700 to $159. By providing multi-use development, Smart Growth towns also tend to generate an average of ten times the tax revenue per acre when compared to conventional areas due to increased development, in some instances exceeding 1,150 times the per acre revenue. Photo courtesy: [http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/kbenfield/transitoriented\_development\_in.html](http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/kbenfield/transitoriented_development_in.html) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Can%20Smart%20Growth%20Strategies%20Save%20Money%20for%20Cities%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F05%2FFlickr-Smart-Growth.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Can%20Smart%20Growth%20Strategies%20Save%20Money%20for%20Cities%3F "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Can%20Smart%20Growth%20Strategies%20Save%20Money%20for%20Cities%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/national-dam-safety-awareness-day/) **Published:** May 31, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Flood](http://www.nps.gov/jofl/index.htm)[![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Johnstown-Flood.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Johnstown-Flood.jpg), the the result of the catastrophic failure of the South Fork Dam, which was situated 14 miles upstream of the town of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. The dam failed after a period of heavy rainfall, however it was not properly maintained for years and in fact modified in ways that threatened the integrity of the structure. On the afternoon of May 31, 1889 the dam failed after workers spent hours trying to save the structure, releasing 12,000 cubic meters of debris-filled water each second. Towns below the dam were never properly notified of the failure and evacuations never took place, with the result being the loss of 2,209 lives, thousands homeless, and $17 million in damages ($425 million in today’s dollars). Since the time of the Great Flood of 1889 the nation has created the National Dam Safety Program and put an emphasis on emergency action plans and proper dam inspections and regulations. However, ASCE’s 2013 [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)graded the nation’s dams with a D. While we no longer see the sever blunders that lead to the failure of the South Fork Dam in 1889, the average age of the 84,000 dams in the country is 52 years old. With an increasing population and greater development below dams, the overall number of high-hazard dams continues to increase, to nearly 14,000 in 2012. The Association of State Dam Safety Officials estimates that it will require an investment of $21 billion to repair these aging, yet critical, high-hazard dams. Under FEMA’s leadership, the National Dam Safety Program is dedicated to protecting the lives of American citizens and their property from the risks associated with the development, operation, and maintenance of America’s dams. Unfortunately, the National Dam Safety Program expired in September 2011 and Congress has yet to reauthorize this small, yet vital program. Since today is [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](http://blog.fema.gov/2013/05/national-dam-safety-awareness-day-dam.html), which was first established in 1999, it seems like the perfect time to urge Congress to reauthorize the National Dam Safety Program. Congressmen Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) and Chris Gibson (R-NY) introduced the Dam Safety Act of 2013 (H.R. 1489) last month, which would reauthorize the program at $10.5 million annually. ASCE has endorsed the legislation and urges Congress to either pass the bill as a standalone piece of legislation, or include it in a greater Water Resources Development Act. The language was already passed as part of the Senate Water Resources bill, so it is now time for the House to do the same. The nation cannot risk another catastrophic dam failure when preventative measures can easily be taken. 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With over 500 construction, engineering, and equipment experts coming into Washington DC, the plan it to make Members of Congress understand the dire impact on their states, districts and the National economy if Congress fails to take action to address the long term financial solvency of the Highway Trust Fund. Fly In attendees will also tell Congress that a timely reauthorization of MAP-21 must be a priority. Fly In events kicked off yesterday afternoon with a series of high profile transportation speakers. Attendees heard from Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA), House Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA), Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, House Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Nick Rahall (D-WV), and Past Senate Environment and Public Works Ranking Member Jim Inhofe (R-OK). Each spoke about the importance of the nation’s surface transportation system and acknowledged the needs ahead. While no one spoke in detail about how to make up the shortfall for the Highway Trust Fund, it is clear that the issue is will be a top concern as Congress works to reauthorize MAP-21 next year. Secretary Ray LaHood told the crowd that he wants a long-term bill that spends $600 billion, however he went on further to acknowledge that even $600 billion “is just going to scratch the surface” of what the country needs. The secretary also stated that President Obama will offer a way to pay for the 2014 transportation bill after legislation dealing with guns, immigration and the sequester is dealt with. According to LaHood, “the president is going to be big and bold about what his vision is for infrastructure”. 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Infrastructure Report Card. After spending a year diving into the details of the state’s infrastructure – from bridges to beaches to dams – they determined that North Carolina’s infrastructure only deserved a mediocre C grade. Like many areas of the country, North Carolina has some work to do to make sure maintenance gets done, aging parts of the system get a modern overhaul, and the infrastructure keeps up with the state’s growth. The state-wide report examined eleven categories of infrastructure, grading their capacity, resiliency, funding, and reliability. Here’s what they found: - **Aviation** earned a D+, in part due to an estimated $763 million needed to bring all airports in the system to a state of good repair. - **Beaches and Inlets** were awarded a C-. Many shoals and inlets are functioning at significantly less than authorized depths. Continued erosion of federal and state funding has a significant impact N.C.’s beaches and inlets. - **Bridges** earned a C-. North Carolina’s bridges require $281 million more per year in order to make significant strides in raising the grade of North Carolina bridges. - **Dams** earned the lowest grade of a D. Ten percent of North Carolina’s high hazard dams are deficient and only 34 percent have Emergency Action Plans. One-third of North Carolina’s dams are over 50 years old. - **Drinking Water** earned a C+. North Carolina has over 530 public water systems which serve approximately 7.3 million North Carolinians (75 percent of the state’s population). - **Energy** was awarded the highest grade in the report of a B+. North Carolina has a solid foundation of energy and energy infrastructure to meet its current and 20-year planning horizon needs. - **Rail** earned a C+, in part due to only 30 percent of the state’s short lines being able to accommodate new, heavier rail cars. It is estimated that freight rail investment needs over the next 25 years will total $545 million. - **Roads** earned a C. The scale of the state maintained highway network, current economic circumstances, and the trend of reducing the state transportation agency’s resources and personnel have been challenges to providing and maintaining a sustainable quality of service. - **Schools** earned a C. Over 58 percent of North Carolina schools will require renovations in the next five years. Additionally, approximately 10 percent of students are in mobile classrooms. The projected cost to meet facility needs for the next five years is approximately $8.2 billion. - **Stormwater** earned a grade of C-. Most of North Carolina’s population lives in communities that have no dedicated source of funding to improve stormwater quality. Statewide sources of funding such as the N.C. Clean Water Management Trust Fund are being reduced and North Carolina’s communities have fewer and fewer options when trying to address their stormwater improvement needs. - **Wastewater** earned a C. North Carolina has documented a need of over $4 billion of additional wastewater infrastructure investment needs through the year 2030. These funds are needed to replace aging facilities, comply with mandated Clean Water Act regulations, and keep pace with economic development. [Get all the details from the full North Carolina Report Card here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/north_carolina/north-carolina-overview/ "2013 Report Card for North Carolina's Infrastructure"). Interested in seeing how another state ranks? [See ASCE’s full State Report Card list here. ](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Report-Card/State-and-Local-Report-Cards/ "ASCE State Report Card Program")Want to get updates from ASCE on infrastructure issues? 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State Floodplain Managers, National Association of Flood and Stormwater Management Agencies, and the [Nature Conservancy](http://www.nature.org/ "The Nature Conservancy") gathered to discuss the opportunities in the proposed [WRDA](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_Resources_Development_Act "Water Resources Development Act") bill to reduce flood risks and the potential damages from flood disasters. The nation’s dam and levee system is characterized by low system integration, having been constructed in an ad hoc manner, with little to no regard for the effects beyond the immediate applications. Because dams and [levees](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levee "Levee") are often constructed by localities to serve the needs of their constituents, there is no full register of all the existing dams and levees in the United States. Many of the known dams and levees are reaching or exceeding their designed operating age of 50 years, creating a pressing need for a National Levee Safety Program. Recently built dams are constructed to withstand the 100 year flood. However, according to Dr. Professor Mathias Kondolf of U.C.-Berkeley, a house with a 30 year mortgage built in a floodplain area has an aggregate 26 percent chance of being flooded over the course of the mortgage. Since they are living under the protection of a 100 year dam, houses in these areas often do not have flood insurance and have not taken steps to protect themselves, such as elevating the structure, from flood waters. Dr. Kondolf continued on to say that the aim of modern dams is to “filter out the small floods,” but that they do not protect from “the big ones.” In many areas historically prone to flooding and flood damage, the presence of protective structures has actually drawn increased levels of business and personal development. This risk intensification was borne out in areas damaged by [Superstorm Sandy](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Sandy "Hurricane Sandy") and [Hurricane Katrina](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Katrina "Hurricane Katrina") when levees holding back ocean water failed. Floods, in their natural form, are healthy for and necessary parts of an ecosystem. In fact, without the floods of the Mississippi and Missouri rivers carrying silt and material, the Mississippi Delta around which New Orleans is built would not exist. Disaster arises when a dam or levee is built and people are allowed to build and live in what was the floodplain. When a flood does breach the wall, the costs can be astronomical. The hazards out flood disasters can be mitigated by analyzing and appropriately managing flood-vulnerable areas. By adopting policies known in the Netherlands as “room for the rivers,” the effects of floods on human activities can be mitigated. Some recommendations in accord with this are to set levees further back from the main flow of water, thus allowing any flood to proceed more naturally, or to designate areas of land that to be used as flood bypasses during times of high flood waters. However, the availability of these lands during dry times can induce development. All representatives present at Monday’s briefing agreed that, as a rule, “non-structural” approaches such as giving the river room, building houses above flood level, and creating natural drainage channels around cities are best suited to provide long-term protection. Ultimately, WRDA is an essential bill to plan and manage the nation’s waterways and flood preparedness. It is necessary to establish national guidelines for dams and levees, provide money to repair levees, and establish a comprehensive database of levees in the country. Cost-sharing, imposing per-project caps, and creating a national floodplain management plan will allow the legislation to provide the greatest amount of benefit. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Little%20Program%20that%20Could%20%E2%80%94%20If%20Funded&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.zemanta.com%2Fzemified_e.png%3Fx-id%3D6549ee6a-c0ea-4806-8460-4014b0ecca8a&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Little%20Program%20that%20Could%20%E2%80%94%20If%20Funded "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Little%20Program%20that%20Could%20%E2%80%94%20If%20Funded&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [House Science Committee](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_House_Committee_on_Science%2C_Space_and_Technology "United States House Committee on Science, Space and Technology") was quick to take notice of the tragedy that took place in Oklahoma and responded by calling a hearing on less than a week’s notice to review federal efforts to reduce the impacts of windstorms. In addition to the tornado outbreak, the hearing focused on a small government program, the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program or NWIRP. Created with the support of ASCE in 2004, the multi-agency program is designed to coordinate the wind hazards research and mitigation efforts of the [National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)](http://www.nist.gov "National Institute of Standards and Technology"), the [Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)](http://www.fema.gov "Federal Emergency Management Agency"), the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)](http://www.noaa.gov "National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration"), and the [National Science Foundation (NSF)](http://www.nsf.gov/ "National Science Foundation"). The general consensus of the members of the Science Committee and the witnesses was the program could have a major impact in reducing the loss, both terms of human life and economic, from sever windstorms. None of the members of the Committee present, nor any of the three witnesses, opposed the program. However, since its creation in 2004, there has been no appropriated funding for the program and in September of 2009 authorization for the program expired. Efforts to reauthorize NWIRP and its larger, more established, better funded sister program, the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), have been ongoing since 2009. Spanning five years and three Congresses, we are once again facing an uphill battle to reauthorize the two programs and, in the case of NWIRP, fund a program that everyone seems to support. The question seems to be, why? This is the kind of program Congress used to routinely reauthorize on schedule. However, the program, like many others, has become a victim of competing priorities, and a more partisan Congress. There is a long list of reason these two programs have not been reauthorized, most having nothing to do with their merits. The simple fact is, the Federal government annually spends billions on disaster relief, and seemingly baulks at spending millions in an effort to reduce the need to spend the billions. Meanwhile, as efforts get underway to rebuild in More, Oklahoma, if recent history is any indication, it will be rebuilt to the same building codes which existed before the recent tornado, just as was done in 1999 and 2003, with just as predictable of results. As David Prevatt, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE, stated during the hearing, “this is not that complicated, windstorms are possibly the only natural disasters whose impact on humans could be mostly resolved by proper research.” [A full webcast of the hearing is available here](http://science.house.gov/hearing/subcommittee-research-and-subcommittee-technology-joint-hearing-federal-efforts-reduce). 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contract to CycleHop, LLC, to manage the city’s new bike share program that is expected to be rolled out by December 2013. This announcement comes shortly after New York City implemented its own bike sharing program, known as Citi Bike. New York has spread 6,000 bikes across the city, available to the general public for rent. Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan have invested heavily in cycling, installing over 350 miles of new bike lanes throughout the island. Intended to supplement existing transit systems, New York City and Phoenix have designed bike share systems that will give residents a wider variety of options to get around their city, to and from work, and facilitate the community of cyclists growing across the nation. “The bike culture is growing in Phoenix, and the City of Phoenix must play a role in ensuring that our roads are safe and accessible for the cycling community. Residents want choices when it comes to how they get around. The continued development of our light rail system in combination with improving Phoenix’s bike infrastructure will provide sustainable options” said Phoenix City Manager David Cavazos. Across the country, biking is emerging as a safe, cheap, and reliable means of transportation. In New York, there are now a total of over 700 miles of bike lanes, cycling accidents and fatalities are down 75% since 2000, and memberships will cost as little as ten dollars. In many cities with similar programs, membership is high and rapidly expanding. Bikes are typically rented for a flat rate, with charges often beginning after a certain time elapses, typically capping at $25 per day. In addition to Phoenix’s planned project, there are 9 other major cities with bike sharing programs, including Washington DC, New York, Miami, Chicago, and Denver. When New York rolled out its program, Mayor Bloomberg noted that over half of all trips in the city were less than two miles. Giving people an alternative to taxis or personal cars will reduce traffic, reduce wear and tear on the roads themselves, and create jobs associated with the program. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Phoenix%20Joins%20Cities%20Nationwide%20Trying%20Out%20Bike%20Share%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** transportation --- ### [Oklahoma Infrastructure Business and Policy Leaders Come Together](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-policy-leaders-come-together-in-oklahoma-city/) **Published:** June 28, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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America’s Future and former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell joined Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett, ASCE and the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce to praise efforts at the state and local level in addressing infrastructure challenges.](http://www.okcchamber.com/index.php?submenu=ChamberEventVideos&src=gendocs&ref=ChamberEventVideos&category=Newsroom) At the policy forum in Oklahoma City, Rendell and Cornett noted that while leadership on the national level has stalled, governors and mayors across the country are making strides with new laws in four states designed to increase transportation funding this year. Speakers at the forum all agreed that Washington must act on a long-term infrastructure plan in order to keep the U.S. competitive and to improve the quality of life for all Americans. “As a former Governor, I love that states and cities are tackling these tough issues. Prioritizing repairs, building smarter electrical grids, and creating private-public partnerships are all wise investments for communities. But cities and states cannot do it alone,” said Rendell. “Make no mistake, we need the federal government to step up and fund the projects that are regionally and nationally significant. For far too long, the federal government has failed to act. That cost of inaction is tremendous and as a result, we’re falling behind our global competitors.” Policy forums such as these serve as a tremendous opportunity for leaders and experts to share ideas and discuss specific challenges. As you well know, earlier this year, ASCE released the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, which awarded our nation’s infrastructure a D+. Simply, poor roads and bridges drive up the cost of doing business. Likewise, our ailing ports and waterway systems hurt our ability to compete in a global marketplace. It is clear that if we want to stay economically competitive, we must take immediate action. We applaud Mayor Cornett, Governor Rendell, Building America’s Future, the OKC Chamber, and all who came out today to support infrastructure investment. Only through working together and building an impassioned collation can we hope to raise our infrastructure grade, improve our economy, and build sustainable communities for future generations. [Watch the event video here.](http://www.okcchamber.com/index.php?submenu=ChamberEventVideos&src=gendocs&ref=ChamberEventVideos&category=Newsroom) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Oklahoma%20Infrastructure%20Business%20and%20Policy%20Leaders%20Come%20Together&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Oklahoma%20Infrastructure%20Business%20and%20Policy%20Leaders%20Come%20Together "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Oklahoma%20Infrastructure%20Business%20and%20Policy%20Leaders%20Come%20Together&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure report card --- ### [Sprawl is No Joke](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sprawl-is-no-joke/) **Published:** July 1, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Sprawl%20is%20No%20Joke&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")I recently caught this article from The Atlantic, [The Devastating Impact of 30 Years of Sprawl, As Seen From Space](http://www.theatlanticcities.com/neighborhoods/2013/06/devastating-impact-30-years-sprawl-seen-space/5955/). Pretty crazy stuff, huh? Sprawl is one of those things that happen so gradually it is hard to notice in your day-to-day life. This article shows the use of GIF’s just what is happening not only in the United States but in locations around the world. I am not saying that development is bad, OVER development is bad. Poor planning is bad. As long as development incorporates appropriate urban scale and form, diversity of land use and good engineering design to achieve a balance between the interests of the individual, the community and the natural and built environments all should be well. Sustainability also comes to mind. Specifically the idea that, “Infrastructure systems must be designed to protect the natural environment and withstand both natural and man-made hazards, using sustainable practices, to ensure that future generations can use and enjoy what we build today, as we have benefited from past generations”. That comes straight from the [Key Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/overview/key-solutions) section of the [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) I know the civil engineers that I work with keep to those principals, let’s hope every does the world over. 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email")](mailto:?subject=45%20Cities%20Join%20to%20Launch%20Resilient%20Communities%20for%20America%20Initiative&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, the National Press Club hosted the launch of the Resilient Communities for America campaign. Forty-five mayors and county leaders have signed the agreement, pledging to invest to make towns and communities more resilient in the wake of increasingly severe weather. Mayors of many prominent cities such as Denver, San Diego, Washington, D.C., Sacramento, Des Moines, and El Paso have committed themselves to focus on resilience. Salud Carbajal of Santa Barbara County, CA, noted that America “must be able to plan, anticipate, and adapt” to extreme weather to protect our towns. American cities are facing more and more droughts, floods, power outages, and hurricanes. Cities such as Des Moines, Iowa have suffered from strings of alternating severe droughts and floods. They experienced three near-500 year floods in 2010 alone, suffered widespread drought in 2012, and are now in the midst of the wettest season in 140 years of recorded history. Even those communities who for years have made themselves more resilient to brace against tropical storms and hurricanes are in need of greater measures. In light of crumbling seawalls and the need for regular beach nourishment to prevent erosion in many beach communities, coastal areas are more vulnerable than ever to powerful storms. Resilient Communities for America requires signatories to self-impose goals for achieving greater resilience based on their individual situations. However, several partner groups such as the National League of Cities, World Wildlife Fund, and U.S. Green Building Council have agreed to provide free technical resources to the cities in order to achieve their goals. Vulnerable cities are investing in innovative techniques such as salinity barriers to prevent contamination of fresh groundwater, better coordination after disasters, and achieving a balance between growth and environmental responsibility to limit catastrophes. This new program emphasizes coordination, cooperation, and investment at all levels of government. Mr. Anthony said that while local actions need to be taken, a regional and national approach to resilience is essential for success. Cooperation is vital, he says, because these “challenges do not stop at city lines”. 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email")](mailto:?subject=45%20Cities%20Join%20to%20Launch%20Resilient%20Communities%20for%20America%20Initiative&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** water infrastructure --- ### [U.S. Conference of Mayors’ Water Council Is Looking For Every Drop](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/u-s-conference-of-mayors-water-council-is-looking-for-every-drop/) **Published:** July 3, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Conference of Mayors last week to promote our 2013 Report Card, and being in sunny, dry Las Vegas, water was top of mind for many of the mayors in attendance. Besides being confident that their water is the best tasting in the nation, mayors at the U.S. Conference of Mayors Water Council voiced concern at the lack of response to what they see as trends changing the U.S. entire approach to water from policy to practice. Water resources and efficient management were called out as emerging issues that every city should be focusing on. The City of Irving, Texas’ mayor highlighted their city’s ongoing struggle to handle population growth with drought conditions and noted the recent Supreme Court case pitting Texas vs Oklahoma on water rights that will force mayors to become more focused in how to make the most of their resources in the most sustainable manner possible. However Texas isn’t the only place to see drought conditions or limitations on available water sources , mayors from Iowa and others in the midwest also spoke up regarding their long-term struggle with these issues. So how are they making the most of their resources in the most sustainable manner possible? Reuse for grounds- Parks, recreation facilities, and lawns can be set up to use rainwater or greywater rather than sending this back into the water system for treatment. Treat water differently- adding new technology and harnessing nature to handle treatment in an environmentally conscious way or look to R&D to find new processes and methods like changing the order of the processing of sludge so it doesn’t require as many chemicals. Implement technology with competition- Shifting water meters from manual reads to automated reads and using one platform to get several vendors to compete for work combines both technology and competition to meet needs and curb costs. For one city, this saved about $6M! Fix the leaks- almost 30% to 40% of water is lost in many systems and new pressure control valves and other monitoring systems can help bring this number down and save cities money on both operations and lost product. 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email")](mailto:?subject=U.S.%20Conference%20of%20Mayors%E2%80%99%20Water%20Council%20Is%20Looking%20For%20Every%20Drop&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** water infrastructure --- ### [Electrical Transmission 101](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/electrical-transmission-101/) **Published:** July 11, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Emphasized in the presentations were the system limitations faced by our electrical grid, as well as issues regarding generation, transmission, and supply. Currently, our electrical grid is lacking in many areas. It is inadequate to connect rich sources of renewable energy in the central U.S. and offshore to areas of high demand elsewhere. Because of the difficulty in rerouting electricity, there was a general emphasis by the speakers on the need to prioritize system planning and development. . …..The United States is divided into three basic electrical regions. These include the Midwest and Eastern parts of the country, Texas, and West of the Rocky Mountains. The two coasts, due to their high populations, consume the greatest amount of electricity and are particularly vulnerable to any problems in the grid. Blackouts and other grid problems typically arise from issues related to overheating, or disruptions in the system (high summer demand from AC units causing blackouts). Because each region is highly interconnected, structural failures have the potential to create widespread issues that affect millions. . …..Jeff Dennis, Director of Policy Development at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) said that a “robust national electrical system is key to competitive markets”. While the needs are nation-wide, the responsibility for planning, siting, and building the actual infrastructure often falls to state and local governments, further increasing the need for a more integrated system. Electricity prices are driven primarily by system costs, so if investment into our electrical infrastructure is increased, many users could actually see monthly bills fall as the system became more reliable. . …..The needs faced by what Wayne Galli of Clean Line Energy Partners described as “the largest, most complex, machine ever designed by man” are great, but by investing in it now, we can provide stable energy at lower costs for decades to come. 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Particularly disappointing is that in each state seems so close to the finish line. In Texas, the high profile filibuster over abortion legislation during a special session actually derailed several other bills including a proposal that could have dedicated $1 billion annually for road construction and maintenance. Several proposals are still currently receiving consideration in a second special session, and there is hope something may get passed. Some legislators have said they are concerned that voters would view the legislation as a complete solution for transportation funding instead of as a stopgap to keep transportation programs going until a bigger solution can be found. In Washington, the support of the Governor and the business community was not enough to convince Republican Senators to take up a $10 billion package. The proposal, which was passed by the House included a 10.5 cent increase in the gas tax to pay for projects including a replace I-5 bridge over the Columbia River into Oregon. The legislature’s adjournment without approving the package may have doomed the bridge project. Oregon already approved its $450 million portion of the funding plan for the project but without Washington’s portion, it appears unlikely that $850 million in matching federal funds would be forthcoming. Pennsylvania lawmakers adjourned for the summer without passing a $2 billion package that included an increase in the state’s wholesale fuel tax. House members could not agree to the package passed by the Senate and both parties are blaming each other for derailing the bill. The issue may be reconsidered the fall, but legislators on seem to be far apart on how to proceed at this point. Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick vowed Thursday to veto a transportation finance plan supported by the Democratic leaders of the House and Senate if makes it to his desk in its current form. The governor argues that the bill, which includes $500 million in higher taxes on cigarettes and gasoline, does not raise enough money to upgrade and expand crumbling roads, rails, and bridges. He wants legislators to raise the gas tax even higher. Despite these setbacks over the last couple weeks, it’s been an encouraging year at the state level. Legislatures in as many as 18 states have considered increased infrastructure funding, including politically unpopular gas tax increases. Major funding plans have been passed this year in Maryland, Vermont, Virginia, and Wyoming. In many cases the efforts have been bipartisan. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Approves%20Bill%20to%20Fund%20Corps%20of%20Engineers%20in%20FY%202014&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The House approved [a bill](http://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=342114) late last Wednesday that would fund the [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Army_Corps_of_Engineers "United States Army Corps of Engineers") Civil Works programs for Fiscal Year 2014. The bill, (H.R. 2609), calls for spending a total of $4.899 billion for Civil Works for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2013. It includes $1.573 billion for construction, $23 million more than the [House Appropriations Committee](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_House_Committee_on_Appropriations "United States House Committee on Appropriations") approved in June. In June, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a bill with higher funding levels for Civil works programs. The [Senate bill](http://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news.cfm?method=news.view&id=ba47a4ea-f6df-4341-9716-89343ce3e8c6) would provide $5.272 billion, which is $300 million above fiscal year 2013, for the Corps. Corps funding in the Senate bill would include $2.7 billion for operations and maintenance; $1.542 billion for construction; $300 million for the Mississippi River and Tributaries program; $200 million for the regulatory program; and $120 million for investigations. The bill has not been scheduled for action by the full Senate. The Senate bill proposes $1 billion for activities funded by the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, which will be used for improvements to navigation projects, including dredging harbors and channels, repairing dikes and jetties, and disposing of dredge material. The bill also would provide $380 million—$100 million above the president’s request—to carry on current flood control construction work. The House approved amendments by Reps. Steve Scalise (R-LA), Joe Garcia (D-FL), and Stephen Lynch (D-MA) to add $23 million to the Corps’ construction account, increases that were matched by $23 million reductions in other Energy Department and Civil Works program accounts funded in the bill. Also included in the House bill are operation and maintenance programs to be funded at $2.682 billion; $249 million for projects in the Mississippi River and Tributary system; $90 million to study new projects; and $28 million for flood control and coastal emergency programs. The House approved an amendment by Rep. Mike. Kelly (R-PA) to prohibit the use of Corps funds to develop or submit a proposal to expand the authorized uses of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund. The House also approved an amendment by Scalise to prohibit the Corps from using appropriated funds to employ the “modified Charleston method” **within the state of Louisiana** for evaluating wetland losses. The Corps developed the “[modified Charleston method](http://eponline.com/articles/2011/02/01/new-orleans-corps-of-engineers-to-use-modified-charleston-method.aspx)” in 2002 to measure the functional loss of wetlands indirectly by considering the quality of wetland functions of the impacted site weighed against the perceived increases of wetland functions of a mitigation project. ASCE’s [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure gave](http://infrastructurereportcard.org) U.S. inland waterways and ports a grade of D- and C, respectively. ASCE strongly supports investment in our nation’s aging and outdated ports and waterways. [ASCE submitted testimony](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/ASCE_Energy%20and%20Water_3%2029%202013.pdf) to the House Energy and Water Development Appropriations Subcommittee in March outlining recommended funding priorities for FY14. 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Approves%20Bill%20to%20Fund%20Corps%20of%20Engineers%20in%20FY%202014&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Mr. Civil Engineer Goes to Washington](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/mr-civil-engineer-goes-to-washington/) **Published:** July 17, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Baseball’s All-Star break is this week. These and more serve as reminders that we have reached the “mid-point” of the summer. Are your summer advocacy plans in place? If you are an ASCE member, you should start your advocacy plan by signing up for the next [Key Contact Briefing Conference Call](http://www.asce.org/ContentMemberOnly.aspx?id=25769808852 "Key Contact Briefing Conference Call Series") on July 23 with [Rep. David McKinley](http://mckinley.house.gov/ "Rep. David McKinley"), P.E., F.ASCE. An ASCE member since his days as a student at Purdue University, Rep. McKinley represents the 1st District of West Virginia and will join us on July 23 to share his experience as a civil engineer in Congress, and why it’s important for ASCE members to meet often with their elected officials to share the civil engineer’s take on issues. As Congress continues to wrestle with many challenges, ASCE members and infrastructure supporters of all backgrounds should make sure their elected leaders are informed about the conditions of our nation’s infrastructure, and the consequences we face if we continue to neglect its needs. ASCE’s 2013 [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org "Report Card for America's Infrastructure") lays out these points on 16 different categories of infrastructure. In addition, ASCE Sections and Branches have released over 30 state and local Report Cards to provide a more localized picture of infrastructure conditions. This information is valuable when in the hands of decision-makers in Congress as they discuss issues such as the Water Resources Development Act, and the importance of preserving tax exemptions for municipal bonds to improve infrastructure in local communities. Learn how you can help your elected leaders make informed decisions about our infrastructure using ASCE’s [Key Contact tools](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/ "Back Home Visits Materials") by joining Rep. McKinley and ASCE staff on July 23. **[Join us](http://www.asce.org/ContentMemberOnly.aspx?id=25769808852 "Key Contact Briefing Conference Call Series") on July 23 at 1pm EDT/12noon CDT for “Bringing the Report Card to Elected Leaders”, the next [Key Contact Briefing Conference Call](http://www.asce.org/ContentMemberOnly.aspx?id=25769808852 "Key Contact Briefing Conference Call Series"), open to all ASCE members (a member login is required to register for the call.)** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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state report cards --- ### [Mexico Ramps Up Infrastructure Investment Over the Next 5 Years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/mexico-ramps-up-infrastructure-investment-over-the-next-5-years/) **Published:** July 18, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Mexico%20Ramps%20Up%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Over%20the%20Next%205%20Years&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Mexico%20Ramps%20Up%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Over%20the%20Next%205%20Years "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Mexico%20Ramps%20Up%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Over%20the%20Next%205%20Years&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto announced an initiative to fund $300 billion dollars (4 trillion pesos) worth of infrastructure projects through 2018. The money will be used to extend highways, revitalize and extend both passenger and freight rail, and upgrade ports in Mexico to increase capacity and efficiency of handling. “Nobody can doubt that better infrastructure translates into more competitiveness and productivity, which will ignite economic growth and social well-being,” Peña Nieto said. “These are investments that will translate into jobs.” The new plan will bring Mexico’s infrastructure investment up to half a trillion dollars (6.25 trillion pesos) over the space of their last two infrastructure plans. Infrastructure areas slated to receive investment include: - Construct or upgrade 3,361 miles of highways - 6 regional airport upgrades - Several sea ports - 3 intercity passenger railways - New subway line for Monterrey - Light passenger-train system for Guadalajara Recently, Mexico has bypassed passenger rail investment due to systemic delays and low ridership and focused on freight. However, Peña Nieto intends to change that by funding high-speed rail projects across Mexico. His stated goal is to develop infrastructure “the length and breadth of the country.” The funding package will go into effect in 2014. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Mexico%20Ramps%20Up%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Over%20the%20Next%205%20Years&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure report card, rail transportation, surface transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [Highway Trust Fund: Running on Empty](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/highway-trust-fund-running-on-empty/) **Published:** July 23, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Trust Fund (HTF) and the effects its impending insolvency would have on transportation projects nationwide. As it stands, the HTF receives almost 90% of its revenue from taxes on motor fuels. As CAFE standards increase the number of fuel-efficient vehicles on our roadways, less gasoline is purchased and revenue going into the HTF decreases. Making the problem worse is the trend of people moving into cities where personal cars are being abandoned in favor of more practical mass transit, walking, or bicycles. …..Witnesses Polly Trottenberg, Undersecretary for Policy at the USDOT, and Kim Cawley of the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) provided a number of proposals to keep the HTF solvent beyond 2015 when it is anticipated to be unable to pay its bills. Mr. Cawley reported that the HTF will need to increase gas taxes by 10 cents per gallon, receive a $15 billion transfer from General Funds, and cut spending, or some combination of all three in order to continue. Ms. Trottenberg also noted that with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan winding down, there are hundreds of billions of dollars that can be diverted into transportation infrastructure projects instead. Especially given the low interest rates, now is a good time to invest, she said. …..If the Trust Fund does not receive sufficient revenue to fulfill all its obligations to grantees, states will likely face cuts and delays in crucial projects. Several states depend heavily on federal contributions for their transportation and infrastructure project budgets. In many rural or smaller states, federal money can make up over half of a state’s annual budget. With revenues declining, legislators at all levels of government are looking to MAP 21’s streamlining initiatives to reduce completion times and lower costs as part of a many-pronged solution to the crisis. Whatever the solution is, the Highway Trust Fund is in serious need of a long-term fix, not just “another Band-Aid”. …..ASCE also submitted testimony for consideration to the Subcommittee, which may be found here: http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government\_Relations/Testimony\_and\_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Status%20of%20the%20HTF%20072313.pdf [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Running%20on%20Empty&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Running%20on%20Empty "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Running%20on%20Empty&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Can-Do States Who Tackle Infrastructure Are Just What the U.S. Economy Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/can-do-states-who-tackle-infrastructure-are-just-what-the-u-s-economy-needs/) **Published:** July 24, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Can-Do%20States%20Who%20Tackle%20Infrastructure%20Are%20Just%20What%20the%20U.S.%20Economy%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Sometimes you just have to do it yourself. That’s the message some states seem to be sending as federal infrastructure bills like the Water Resources Development Act keep getting sidelined by Congress or only seeing short-term efforts like the MAP-21 Transportation Reauthorization.[ The Metropolitan Policy Program at Brookings has called these states that have decidedly put forward a structure or action plan for infrastructure “Can-Do States” and highlighted these states’ efforts at a recent event.](http://www.brookings.edu/events/2013/07/12-infrastructure-investment) These “Can-Do States” have formed new structures that operate in ways that improve their state’s access to capital or work across departments to streamline and prioritize investments. What are these states doing differently? Start by looking at these models – the government-owned business enterprise model like [Colorado’s High Performance Transportation Enterprise](http://www.coloradodot.info/programs/high-performance-transportation-enterprise-hpte) , or the [offices for public private partnerships like Virginia](http://www.vappta.org/) that work to put together infrastructure financing deals, or initiatives like the [NY Works Task Force ](http://nyworkstaskforce.ny.gov/)that are used to streamline and strategically allocate New York’s capital investment dollars. A[ccording to a new report by McKinsey](http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/americas/us_game_changers), infrastructure investment is one of five big “game changers” that could reboot the U.S. economy to quickly create jobs and deliver a substantial boost to GDP by 2020. They believe that increasing the U.S. annual infrastructure investment by one percentage point of GDP could erase the negative side effects of delayed maintenance, and create up to 1.8 million jobs by 2020. With states already taking the lead on reworking their infrastructure strategies to better select, deliver, and operate like McKinsey’s advising, that 1% of GDP investment could create $600 billion annually by 2030. Infrastructure may be just what every state and the whole U.S. economy needs to really grow again. What could your state do to get more infrastructure investment done with the same budget? 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email")](mailto:?subject=Can-Do%20States%20Who%20Tackle%20Infrastructure%20Are%20Just%20What%20the%20U.S.%20Economy%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** career development, congress, economics, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Chairman Boxer Holds Press Conference on Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/chairman-boxer-holds-press-conference-on-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** July 26, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Committee Chair Barbara Boxer held a press conference (<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZoGpdW2jlo#t=15m27s>) with members of the transportation and infrastructure community to highlight the impending insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Rob Victor, Chairman of ASCE’s Committee for America’s Infrastructure, spoke along with Senator Boxer and other industry representatives about the declining condition of our infrastructure and the consequences of inaction. At the press conference were executives from small, family-owned business and large associations on behalf of hundreds of thousands of members, representing the breadth of groups affected. Discussing the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, Rob Victor emphasized that current funding projections will cost our economy more than 876,000 jobs and individual families over $1,000 per household every year. This includes not only damages directly related to crumbling infrastructure like more frequent car repairs, but also increased cost of living as shipping prices rise, groceries become more expensive, and the cost of commodities jump as companies seek to account for higher costs. Without proper infrastructure funding, our GDP will be suppressed by $897 billion by the year 2020. Senator Boxer expressed her determination to fix the HTF before it is too late. “I don’t want to wait until, you know, midnight. I want to get ready for this. It’s coming in September 2014”. Saying that she was open to many options that could either supplant or complement the gas tax, Senator Boxer however conceded that there was little support on the Hill for a VMT system. After the press conference, chairs of the three relevant Senate committees sent a “[Dear Colleague](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Files.View&FileStore_id=39f606de-aa09-434f-b1af-0f02c56d86ab)” letter to other Senate members, arguing that 3 million jobs would be at risk if Congress fails to find stable funding for the highway trust fund. The letter from Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Chairman of the Commerce Committee John Rockefeller (D-WV), and Chairman of the Banking Committee Tim Johnson (D-SD) was sent out along with a state by [state breakdown](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Files.View&FileStore_id=cf1dfe4e-8e60-4506-a9e0-205fe809f314) of how many jobs would be lost if the Highway Trust Fund is allowed to go bankrupt. The Highway Trust Fund is expected to be exhausted in September of next year. Surface transportation makes up the largest portion of the $1.7 trillion investment gap. If the HTF is allowed to go unfunded, the costs to our economy and families will only accumulate faster. 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speeches](https://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/economy-jobs/) at an Amazon distribution center in Tennessee to propose a cut in corporate tax rates in return for a commitment from Republicans to invest more in programs spurring middle-class jobs. As stewards of our nation’s infrastructure, the ASCE is encouraged by[ President Obama’s proposal](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/07/30/fact-sheet-better-bargain-middle-class-jobs) to direct money from a corporate tax overhaul to help fund America’s infrastructure projects. However, while emphasizing the need to reduce the backlog of [deferred maintenance](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) on highways, bridges, transit systems, and airports nationwide is an important message to come from the President, the message alone will not fix the nation’s infrastructure problems. ASCE President, Gregory E. DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, released the following statement in response to the President Obama’s remarks: *“As stewards of our nation’s infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers applauds President Obama’s proposal to direct money from a corporate tax overhaul to help fund America’s infrastructure projects, with an emphasis on reducing the backlog of deferred maintenance on highways, bridges, transit systems, and airports nationwide. Infrastructure is the foundation of our communities, and without it, our businesses, schools, and our everyday lives suffer.* *“The time to act is now. It’s critical that the administration and congressional leaders put forth a clear, actionable road map with long-term funding solutions. Leaders from all parties must come together to invest in America’s future to assure we have a strong foundation for an ever-changing 21st century economy.* *“The President has said on more than one occasion that we have an ‘aging infrastructure badly in need of repair.’ Despite this statement, little has been done since the president announced his ‘Fix-It-First’ plan to rebuild America in his State of the Union address earlier this year. Simply put, we must invest in our roads, bridges, ports, and water systems. This will help us build a 21st Century America to compete in an ever-changing global economy.* *“In ASCE’s 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s infrastructure across 16 sectors, the nation’s cumulative GPA for infrastructure received a grade of D+. The 2013 Report Card estimates total investment needs at $3.6 trillion by 2020 across all 16 sectors, leaving a funding shortfall of $1.6 trillion based on current funding levels.* *“Private investment along with political leadership can help our nation grow and create much needed jobs. First class roads, bridges, and ports will lead to first class jobs, homes, and lives for American families. Yet rebuilding our nation’s roads, bridges, and water systems is not enough. We must have long-term plans for maintenance and repair, sustainable funding mechanisms that assure reliability, and the political leadership to invest in our own communities.”* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Obama%20Proposes%20Plan%20for%20Infrastructure%20Funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Obama%20Proposes%20Plan%20for%20Infrastructure%20Funding "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Obama%20Proposes%20Plan%20for%20Infrastructure%20Funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** career development, economics, infrastructure --- ### [I-35 W: Six Years After the Bridge Fell](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/i-35-w-six-years-after-the-bridge-fell/) **Published:** August 1, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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collapsed](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=osocGiofdvc "Video of bridge collapse"), killing 13 people, injuring 145, and severing a vital lifeline for many towns. Only 382 days later, the bridge had been replaced and was open to traffic once again. Six years after this tragedy, the question remains whether we have done enough to repair our crumbling infrastructure. Success stories like the rapid reconstruction of the I-35 bridge are widely touted, but isolated incidents are needed less than general trends toward improvement. In an analysis of the nation’s roads and bridges, 1 out of 9 is deemed “structurally deficient”, while in five individual states, more than 20 percent of bridges are rated as such. Since 2000, 22,711 bridges are no longer considered structurally deficient. While this is an improvement, there are concerns that fiscal realities may derail progress. Currently, the Highway Trust Fund is projected to become insolvent in September of next year. The HTF is the primary means by which many states fund infrastructure repair and replacement projects. The I-35 replacement was constructed so quickly in large part due to near-continuous work for 11 months. Without adequate funding for construction projects, the time for completion will lengthen, driving up costs and the impacts on drivers. Bridges are indispensable parts of our infrastructure system. Without safe, reliable, and efficient transportation, we will see the toll taken on the prices of goods and costs to ourselves and others. The average age of the 600,000 bridges in this nation is 42 years, with an estimated $76 billion in needs to address the problems. ASCE’s *Failure to Act* report on the costs of poor infrastructure shows that by 2020, deficient bridges and pavement will cost Americans 58 billion. If left untended, those costs will jump to $651 billion by 2040. So as we approach the 6th anniversary of the terrible happenings on the I-35 W bridge, foremost in our mind should be the state of our infrastructure and if we are really doing enough to maintain our bridges. Individual instances of rapid repair and replacement are necessary, but insufficient. We must continue to fund the Highway Trust Fund and provide governments at all levels the tools they need to keep our infrastructure standing. 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email")](mailto:?subject=I-35%20W%3A%20Six%20Years%20After%20the%20Bridge%20Fell&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, congress, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation --- ### [House Appropriators Postpone Action on EPA Sending Bill to September](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-appropriators-postpone-action-on-epa-sending-bill-to-september/) **Published:** August 1, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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spending bill for the [Environmental Protection Agency](http://www.epa.gov "United States Environmental Protection Agency") for fiscal year 2014 this week, the [House Appropriations Committee](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_House_Committee_on_Appropriations "United States House Committee on Appropriations") decided to delay final action on the controversial bill for more than a month. Committee members voted on several amendments this week and then recessed until September. “With the number of amendments pending, there’s no way we can finish this week,” said Chairman Harold Rogers (R-KY). Congress is scheduled to go on recess Friday until after Labor Day. The committee did act on one amendment supported by ASCE. The amendment by Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) would have restored funding cuts to the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) programs. [![Clean Water Act SRF Appropriations and Safe Drinking Water Act SRF Appropriations graph showing how many Billions were spent each year from 2006 to 2014](/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Graph.jpg "Graph")](/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Graph.jpg) It would have increased the CWA SRF by $1.2 billion to $1.45 billion and the SDWA SRF by $559 million to $909 million for FY 2014—the levels enacted for FY 2013 before the March 2013 sequester. The draft bill would reduce federal spending on wastewater treatment by 82 percent; the cuts to drinking-water infrastructure totaled 61 percent. The amendment was defeated, 27-20, on a party-line vote. Wasserman Schultz said her proposal would prevent cities and counties from suffering from inadequate finances for badly needed upgrades to their wastewater and drinking-water infrastructure. “It is simply unconscionable to leave local communities high and dry,” she said. Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID) urged the committee to defeat the Wasserman Schultz amendment. “The unmet need is about $700 billion,” he said, adding that it would take 300 years at present spending levels to rebuild all of America’s aging wastewater and drinking-water facilities. “We’ve got to find a different way to fund it,” Simpson added. “This \[amendment\] doesn’t address this problem.” Before the committee met, [ASCE raised the alarm](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Testimony-and-Correspondence/Testimonies,-Statements-and-Letters-to-U-S--Congress/) over the massive funding cuts in the bill that would virtually eliminate federal aid to wastewater and drinking-water treatment facilities nationally. The Society recommended that the Committee reject outright the proposed appropriations bill for the Interior Department, EPA, and related agencies. The 2013 ASCE [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), gave America’s wastewater and drinking-water systems a grade of D based on long-ignored investment needs in basic infrastructure. The *Report Card* followed on a 2011 analysis commissioned by ASCE of the economic consequences of failing to invest in wastewater and drinking-water infrastructure. The report*, *Failure to Act: The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Water and Waste Treatment Infrastructure,* concluded that the nation risks the loss of $416 billion in gross domestic product (GDP) by 2020 at current investment rates. American households face $59 billion in increased costs and U.S. businesses will see their costs increase by $147 billion by 2020. This could lead to the loss of 700,000 jobs, according to the ASCE analysis. Meanwhile, the United States will need to invest $384 billion to improve the nation’s drinking-water infrastructure by 2030, according to EPA’s 2011 Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment that was released earlier this year, [http://water.epa.gov/grants\_funding/dwsrf/upload/epa816r13006.pdf](http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/dwsrf/upload/epa816r13006.pdf). In 2010, EPA reported that the total wastewater and stormwater management needs for the nation were $298.1 billion as of January 1, 2008. This amount included $192.2 billion for wastewater treatment plants, pipe repairs, and buying and installing new pipes; $63.6 billion for combined sewer overflow correction; and $42.3 billion for stormwater management. Small communities have documented needs of $22.7 billion. Given the enormity of the problem, the committee’s proposed reductions in America’s wastewater and drinking-water infrastructure run the risk of endangering the nation’s economic strength and the health of its citizens. 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Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA), along with Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment Chairman Bob Gibbs (R-OH), [revealed](http://transportation.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=351138) that the Committee will review and consider **WRRDA** (no, that is not a typo – see below) when Congress returns from recess in September. According to Reps. Shuster and Gibbs, the bill will be marked up shortly after Congress reconvenes September 10, and should hopefully be considered on the House floor in October. Though a draft of the bill is finished, it has not been publicly released as details are still being worked out. This has not stopped many Congressional leaders who have seen it from declaring their support for WRRDA. Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) and House Majority Leader Eric Cantor (R-VA) are two of the more notable names that have thrown their support behind the legislation. The **Water Resources Reform and Development Act** (WRRDA) aims to provide funding to many projects that will enhance and repair our nation’s waterway infrastructure, accelerate the study and review process required before a project can commence, and reduce red tape. According to ASCE’s *Failure to Act* studies, our nation’s waterways face a funding gap of almost $85 billion by 2020 that will result in $200 billion in losses by 2020, and over $2 trillion by 2040. The Senate passed its version of the WRDA bill on May 15. Until the full text of the House’s bill is released, it is unknown how the two versions stack up against each other. ASCE members should contact their Representatives in support of prompt consideration and passage of water resources legislation when the House returns in September. - During August, consider scheduling a Back Home Visit <http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/> with your Representative or look for Town Hall Meetings or other public appearances by your Representative. Visit ASCE’s Back Home Visits page <http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/> for tips and background materials to help you. - Use ASCE’s Click & Connect with Congress advocacy website <http://capwiz.com/asce/issues/alert/?alertid=62713246> to read background and write your Representative in support of water resources legislation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Shuster%20and%20Gibbs%20Announce%20Plans%20for%20House%20to%20Consider%20WRRDA&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, water infrastructure, water resources development act --- ### [ASCE President: Our nation’s infrastructure depends on public and private investment to thrive](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-president-our-nations-infrastructure-depends-on-public-and-private-investment-to-thrive/) **Published:** August 13, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20President%3A%20Our%20nation%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20depends%20on%20public%20and%20private%20investment%20to%20thrive&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*On August 5, 2013, the Wall Street Journal [ran an op-ed](http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324635904578644233086643450.html?mod=itp) that argued against the merits of public investment in infrastructure. The following is a response from ASCE President Greg DiLoreto:* **Our nation’s infrastructure depends on public and private investment to thrive** Larry Schweikart and Burton Folsom’s editorial (*Obama’s False History of Public Investment*, Aug. 6, 2013, page A13) misses a critical point. While entrepreneurs can often drive infrastructure investment, we need both the private and public sectors to play key roles in building and maintaining America’s infrastructure. Our national highway system comprises just 4 percent of all U.S. roads, yet it revolutionized and created entire industries. Today, 40 percent of all highway traffic occurs on this system, 75 percent of heavy truck traffic and 90 percent of tourist traffic. Imagine Amazon or Coca-Cola unable to move goods easily across states. While much of this massive undertaking was planned and funded by the public sector, many private sector firms were hired to execute the work. This critical road system created jobs in the short-term and spurred long-term economic growth. Economic growth necessitates a well-functioning, well-connected infrastructure network. [ASCE’s recent economic studies](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/grade-sheet/economic-implications) found that if the nation continues to invest at the same meager levels in infrastructure, we will see a drop of $3.1 trillion in GDP by 2020 due to the ripple effect deficient infrastructure has on our nation’s economy. Past generations recognized that infrastructure was essential to interstate commerce and a healthy economy. After World War II, Americans built the nation we know today by investing in their communities. Now that bill is coming due. We must modernize and maintain the system we have to keep America at the forefront in order to continue building a strong economic recovery. Gregory DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE President, American Society of Civil Engineers [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20President%3A%20Our%20nation%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20depends%20on%20public%20and%20private%20investment%20to%20thrive&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20President%3A%20Our%20nation%E2%80%99s%20infrastructure%20depends%20on%20public%20and%20private%20investment%20to%20thrive "Share on 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### [Senate Appropriations Committee Looking at Inland Waterways Funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-appropriations-committee-looking-at-inland-waterways-funding/) **Published:** August 19, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Looking%20at%20Inland%20Waterways%20Funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Looking%20at%20Inland%20Waterways%20Funding "Share on 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The committee is considering tossing out the current 20 cent diesel fuel tax, which brings in an estimated $170 million annually to pay for lock, dam, and dredging costs. As currently structured the Inland Waterways Trust Fund does not generate enough income from the fuel tax to pay for the growing needs, a situation that ASCE has raised with Congress during discussions related to the Water Resources Development Act. The Senate FY 14 Energy and Water Appropriations committee report proposes an alternative, modeled after the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, which levies fees on barge operators based on the value of the cargo being transported. The Senate left a proposal to fix the inland waterways tax out of their version of WRDA, due to the constitutional requirement that tax bills originate in the House. The House has yet to introduce their version of WRDA, the Water Resources and Reform Development Act (WRRDA), however the bill is expected to be marked up by the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee at the end of September. ASCE graded the nation’s inland waterways with a grade of “D-” in the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, due to the fact that in many cases, the inland waterways system has not been updated since the 1950s. In fact, more than half of the locks are over 50 years old, while projects to repair and replace these aging locks and dredge channels take decades to approve and complete. ASCE believes that an increase in the waterways user fee is long overdue, and recommends that the current fee be increased to between six and nine cents a gallon, while also tying the fee to the consumer price index. While there is generally a negative outlook on Congressional productivity, it does not necessarily translate to the fate of WRDA. The *National Journal*‘s Billy House reported this week that WRDA should be, relative to other legislation, regarded optimistically <http://www.nationaljournal.com/daily/7-bills-that-could-actually-pass-20130812> [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Looking%20at%20Inland%20Waterways%20Funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Looking%20at%20Inland%20Waterways%20Funding "Share on 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to help ASCE participate in the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) annual Legislative Summit. The meeting is the largest gathering of state legislators held each year and was attended by nearly 5,000 people. One of the things I did there was to exhibit at the meeting with a booth that focused on the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. I, along with other ASCE staff was able to interact with legislators and legislative staff from all 50 states. A special thanks to ASCE members from the Georgia Section who volunteered at this meeting: Janille Smith Colin, Jeffrey Chui, Danielle Elkins, A.M.ASCE, Katherine Gurd, Rick Gurney, P.E., M.ASCE, Rebecca Shelton, P.E., M.ASCE, and Ray Wilke, P.E., M.ASCE. The exhibit hall was a very…interesting… place. Every group under the sun seems to have a presence and everyone is pushing their message out to state legislators. From the National Rifle Association to the American Association for Nude Recreation, The Beer Institute to Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, if you are interested in an issue you can find someone to talk to you and educate you on it. Personally, I had multiple good conversations with state legislators about the condition on their state’s infrastructure and what they can do about it. It was a worthwhile event and I hope that people learned as much from me as I learned from others. NCSL next year is in Minneapolis. If you are in the area you should stop in! 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Attends%20National%20Conference%20of%20State%20Legislatures%20in%20Atlanta&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure report card --- ### [This Week’s Top 5 Infrastructure Stories](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-weeks-top-5-infrastructure-stories/) **Published:** September 6, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Future**](http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/next/tech/infrastructure-moving-faster/) Expanding cities, global businesses, and an interconnected world mean that people need to travel to more places than ever before. Cities cannot prosper in isolation, and businesses cannot thrive if they cannot move goods effectively. As our nation continues to grow, so too must our basic infrastructure. Today, our roads, bridges, and transit systems are not keeping pace with America’s rapid change—meaning we are not positioning ourselves for the future. **[Maine House Majority Leader Backs Infrastructure Investment](http://www.onlinesentinel.com/opinion/jobs-bonds-would-inject-money-into-maine-at-a-crucial-timeresearch-and-development-funds-needed-to-expand-innovation-economy_2013-09-04.html)** Maine wins when we make smart investments in our future. The recent State House approval of a bipartisan jobs and infrastructure bond package was just such a win. Looking ahead, we must next consider funding for research and economic development. **[Afraid of Heights!: Man Looks for Scariest Bridges](http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/31/travel/scary-high-bridges-climbers/index.html?sr=sharebar_twitter)** The United States has seen a golden age of magnificent bridges built since the 1930s, O’Donnell says, and now the nation will likely focus on maintenance. Transportation and civil engineering groups have been warning for years about the consequences of neglecting U.S. bridges. **[Chair of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rides the Future](http://www.theverge.com/2013/9/4/4694938/congressman-hitches-a-ride-in-a-stealthy-self-driving-cadillac)** Google’s not the only entity testing self-driving cars on actual US roads. Today, Bill Schuster (R-PA), the congressman who chairs the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, took a 33-mile trip in an autonomous vehicle built by Carnegie Mellon University and funded by General Motors. The 2011 Cadillac SRX ferried the Pennsylvania congressman from the town of Cranberry to Pittsburgh International Airport earlier this morning, while a cameraman broadcast his journey to the web. [**Infographic: Commuters Have Changed, So Must Our Infrastructure**](http://visual.ly/getting-work-how-commuting-has-changed-last-half-century) The percentage of U.S. workers who drove to work in a private vehicle grew from 62.7 percent in 1960 to 84.4 percent in 2011, according to Census Bureau data. Only around 9 percent commuted using a carpool in 2011, half the percentage of workers that carpooled in 1980. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%E2%80%99s%20Top%205%20Infrastructure%20Stories&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, sustainability, transportation --- ### [FutureStructure – Looking at the Future of Infrastructure and Us](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/future-structure-looking-at-the-future-of-infrastructure-and-us/) **Published:** September 6, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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from our infrastructure in a hyper-connected, modern world? ASCE has partnered with Governing magazine and others to consider what “FutureStructure” means and how we can get there. The goal of FutureStructure is to help public sector leaders think more like system engineers and get past the constraints of today’s often haphazard and siloed approaches. Last week, ASCE headed to Chicago to join the conversation about this new framework for thinking through and solving the infrastructure challenges and possibilities of an integrated, fully connected, and modern future. What does a 21st century city- and community-building approach consist of you may ask? - cities as systems that are connected, well integrated and smarter — with greater responsiveness to community needs; - smart, connected and integrated infrastructure that makes more efficient use of resources and improves the quality of life for the people who use it; - new job skills that will be needed to develop, build, deploy and operate these connected systems Take a look at Governing’s FutureStructure infographic below and weigh in: How do we as infrastructure practitioners take advantage of the possibility of connectivity? 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=FutureStructure%20%E2%80%93%20Looking%20at%20the%20Future%20of%20Infrastructure%20and%20Us&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure report card, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [They’re Back](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/theyre-back/) **Published:** September 10, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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With 22 days remaining in the fiscal year, Congress plans to go all in and be in session for nine of them. Nine days to: [![United States Capitol Building](http://farm9.static.flickr.com/8541/8675963481_609c0eeba9_m.jpg "United States Capitol Building")](http://www.flickr.com/photos/30690694@N05/8675963481)United States Capitol Building (Photo credit: Jack’s LOST FILM) - Avoid a government shut down by passing a FY 2014 budget; - Address the federal debt limit or face a default on federal debt; - Reach agreement on the farm bill which expires September 30th; and - Syria. As is often stated in ads for investment products, past results do not guarantee future performance. However, I think we can go out on a limb here and state that recent Congressional performance is a pretty good indication of how well this will go. And as Congress muddles through these high profile issues, other important issues could continue to be neglected. A laundry list of important infrastructure related, science and research related, and math and science education related issues linger on the back burner. Some of them have been back there for **many** years. Reauthorization of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), addressing the shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund, reauthorization of the nation’s research enterprise including both the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), addressing Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics (STEM) educational programs, reauthorization in the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP) represents a **partial** list of issues Congress needs to address. The last session of Congress, the 112th, was the most unproductive ever (or at least since 1948, when we started measuring these things). Eight months in, the 113th looks like it could be even worse (or better, depending on how you view what Washington should — or shouldn’t — be doing.) Twenty-two bills have been passed by Congress and sent to President Obama for his signature since Congress convened in January. While this torrid pace of inactivity could well continue, ASCE will continue to press Congress on these issues. That message will be louder and more effective, if they hear from you too! 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email")](mailto:?subject=They%E2%80%99re%20Back&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, national science foundation --- ### [WRRDA Up!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrrda-up/) **Published:** September 11, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=WRRDA%20Up%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee introduced the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act](http://transportation.house.gov/WRRDA) (H.R. 3080) with much fanfare today. As the title proves, the bill is one of the most policy and reform focused Water Resources Development Acts (WRDA) to be introduced in the past few decades. Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) and Ranking Member Nick Rahall (D-WV) joined the Water Resources Subcommittee Chairman Bob Gibbs (R-OH) and Tim Bishop (D-NY) to unveil the legislation this afternoon. The bill marks a movement toward bipartisan legislation coming out of the House T&I Committee once again. WRRDA works to consolidate or eliminate duplicative studies, requires concurrent reviews, and streamlines environmental reviews in order to cut the time for project approvals from approximately 15 years on average to 3 years. The legislation also has language that would allow for the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety program, which would include a public awareness component. The legislation however does not create an independent National Levee Safety program, but instead would allow the Corps to assist states in creating their own programs. Additionally, similar to the Senate bill, the House WRRDA bill would incrementally increase expenditures out of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, with the goal to spend 80% of the funds annually by 2020. ASCE is pleased to see that the House is taking the steps necessary to pass a WRDA bill this year and looks forward to working with the Committee to see the bill through until passage. In the meantime mark your calendars for the T&I Committee mark-up of the bill on September 19th! 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=WRRDA%20Clears%20First%20Hurdle "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=WRRDA%20Clears%20First%20Hurdle "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on 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The mark up of the legislation went smoothly with limited debate on amendments. During mark-up several members of the committee provided amendments to speed up the expenditure of funds out of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, however each was withdrawn from consideration after it was made known that they would not pass through the full House. During the hearing Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) drove the message home that “WRRDA is the most policy and reform focused legislation of its kind in the last two decades”. He went on further to state that the “bill contains no earmarks and makes reforms needed to increase transparency, accountability, and Congressional oversight of federal water resources development. At its heart, WRRDA is about jobs and improving America’s competitiveness. A strong water transportation network is critical to keeping pace with other nations that are improving their own infrastructure networks and gaining ground in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.” [WRRDA](http://transportation.house.gov/WRRDA) would seek to increase the amount of money spent from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, require the Army Corps of Engineers to send Congress annual reports on proposed activities, and set up a process to deauthorize $12 billion in programs. It also would include provisions to speed up the environmental review process, such as limiting feasibility studies to three years and federal costs of a study to $3 million, and establishing a process to elevate issues that could delay the process to agency heads. At this point WRRDA has not received much push back from conservative groups that often publicly criticize infrastructure spending bills. In fact, many of those groups, which have the ear of the most conservative members of the House, have praised WRRDA’s reforms, while admitting they would preferred to have seen them go further. This lukewarm reception will benefit WRRDA as it is considered by the House in early October. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=WRRDA%20Clears%20First%20Hurdle "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=WRRDA%20Clears%20First%20Hurdle&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [State Leaders KEEP looking at transportation funding solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-leaders-keep-looking-at-transportation-funding-solutions-and-asce-is-helping-them/) **Published:** September 20, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=State%20Leaders%20KEEP%20looking%20at%20transportation%20funding%20solutions&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=State%20Leaders%20KEEP%20looking%20at%20transportation%20funding%20solutions "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Leaders%20KEEP%20looking%20at%20transportation%20funding%20solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This year we’ve seen policymakers at the state level take the lead on tackling the issue of infrastructure funding as several states moved to increase gas taxes (Massachusetts, Maryland, Vermont, Virginia, and Wyoming). And, this week state leaders are in Kansas City at the [Council of State Governments ](http://www.csg.org/)(CSG) National Conference discussing a variety of issues with transportation and infrastructure high on their list of priorities. Legislators and DOT officials from around the country packed the room for CSG’s Transportation Policy Committee meeting to discuss how states can address infrastructure financing and funding challenges, including challenges with implementation of MAP-21. Dave Nichols, P.E., Director of the Missouri Department of Transportation told attendees that a “lack of action at the federal level has forced states to take matters into their own hands.” [ASCE’s 2013 Report Card ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)was highlighted during the session. Larry Frevert, P.E., a member of ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure which developed the Report Card, spoke to the group about the Report Card and the economic impact of infrastructure investment. Mr. Frevert’s presentation was very well received as he covered a variety of helpful information in the Report Card for state legislators. The CSG Transportation Policy Academy also passed two resolutions during their meeting. The first calls on Congress to pass the next federal surface transportation authorization bill prior to the expiration of MAP-21 on September 30 2104. The second resolution expresses support for a [recent National Conference of State Legislators (NCSL) proposal ](http://www.ncsl.org/documents/standcomm/scnri/Transportation_Funding_PolicySummit2013.pdf)that Congress create a $20 million program to support state level pilot programs to explore transportation funding alternatives to fuel taxes. 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Leaders%20KEEP%20looking%20at%20transportation%20funding%20solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure report card, transportation --- ### [ASCE Testifies Before Senate EPW](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-testifies-before-senate-epw/) **Published:** September 26, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Works](http://www.c-spanvideo.org/clip/4466170&newclip) Committee yesterday about the state of the nation’s surface transportation infrastructure. The hearing entitled “[The Need to Invest in America’s Infrastructure and Preserve Federal Transportation Funding](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Hearing&Hearing_id=367b4cd8-00c7-82d7-d865-91a53d742f4e)” brought together infrastructure heavyweights to discuss revenue solutions for the Highway Trust Fund. During [his remarks](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Testimony%20on%20the%20Status%20of%20the%20HTF%20092513.pdf) Mr. DiLoreto emphasized the need for Congress to identify a long-term funding solution for the nation’s surface transportation programs in order to guarantee increased revenues for the 2014 reauthorization bill. DiLoreto also outlined the current state of the nation’s infrastructure by referencing the[ ](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Testimony%20on%20the%20Status%20of%20the%20HTF%20092513.pdf)[2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)[ ](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Testimony%20on%20the%20Status%20of%20the%20HTF%20092513.pdf)and explained to the panel the economic consequences of inaction. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/DiLoreto-Testimony1.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/DiLoreto-Testimony1.jpg)At the opening of the hearing Chairman Barbara Boxer (D-CA) raised the idea of replacing the gas tax with a “percentage fee that is paid for at the refinery level” and went on further to state that she is leaning toward doing away with the gas tax and replacing in with a sales tax. The suggestion was received with a grain of salt from panelists, who continued to urge that an increase in the gas tax is the fastest way to bring revenues back into the Highway Trust Fund. ASCE and others on the panel believe that all funding options must be considered for the long term viability of the Highway Trust Fund, however if revenue is not raised by 2015 transportation programs across the country will experience a 92% cut. Highways and Transit Subcommittee Chairman and Finance Committee Chairman, Max Baucus (D-MT) spent his time during the hearing to share with the panel that he would like to mark up a tax reform bill this year that would include a fix for the Highway Trust Fund. Baucus also acknowledged that tax reform will likely not happen this year and therefore stated that another temporary transfer from the General Fund might be required. Baucus also made it clear that he thought fixing the Highway Trust Fund “could be an engine that pulls a train here” — in other words, moving as a stand-alone — “because people do want to solve this, and they know it has to be solved.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Testifies%20Before%20Senate%20EPW&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F09%2FDiLoreto-Testimony1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Testifies%20Before%20Senate%20EPW "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Testifies%20Before%20Senate%20EPW&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, transportation --- ### [Government Shutdown Highlights U.S. Inability to Solve Big Problems as Gas Tax Reaches 20th Anniversary](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-highway-trust-fund-headed-toward-bankruptcy-as-gas-tax-reaches-20th-anniversary/) **Published:** October 1, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Government%20Shutdown%20Highlights%20U.S.%20Inability%20to%20Solve%20Big%20Problems%20as%20Gas%20Tax%20Reaches%2020th%20Anniversary&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Reston, Va. — The following is a statement from Gregory E. DiLoreto, P.E., P.L.S, D.WRE, president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding the current government shutdown and the 20th anniversary of the last federal gas tax increase: “Today marks the 20th anniversary since the federal gas tax was last raised to 18.4 cents per gallon in 1993. With the government shutting its doors today, this is a reminder of the pressing need for bipartisan solutions to America’s largest problems. “The shutdown of the federal government will have long-lasting negative effects on America’s already outdated infrastructure. With national parks closed, repair and replacement projects will be put on hold while parks lose needed revenue. We have furloughed one-third of the U.S. Department of Transportation employees, hurting our ability to asses, plan, and respond to needed surface transportation issues. This short-sighted shutdown creates economic uncertainty and halts continuing planning, forcing infrastructure projects to use stop-gap measures for long-term needs. “Regrettably, the shutdown is nothing new. The 20th anniversary of the federal gas tax shows that Congressional inaction has for far too long hurt American families and business. Given the growth and expansion of the U.S. over the last 20 years, one has to wonder the consequences of funding our 2013 infrastructure with 1993 dollars. “According to the Consumer Price Index, the costs of many household items have nearly doubled over the last 20 years. Some examples of the price differences between 1993 and today include: - A loaf of bread: 1993: $0.75, 2013: $1.41 - A pound of coffee: 1993: $2.50, 2013: $5.21 - A new car: 1993: $12,750, 2013: $31,252 “Despite these price increases, the federal gas tax has remained stagnant with no increase over that time. Together, taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel raise more than $30 billion per year, or 85 percent of the revenue flowing into the nation’s transportation spending account. “America’s transportation infrastructure is on a collision course unless Congress takes swift action to approve a long-term revenue solution. The Highway Trust Fund will be bankrupt by 2015 and MAP-21 is set to expire in September 2014. Infrastructure projects are already being put on hold because of the uncertainty of federal funding. “The American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave the nation’s roads a grade of D, and bridges a C+. We found that unless investments are made, the nation’s deteriorating surface transportation will cost the American economy more than 876,000 jobs and suppress the growth of the country’s GDP by $897 billion by 2020. “Much like the government shutdown, our inability to invest in our nation’s infrastructure costs Americans jobs, hurts businesses, and makes life harder for working families. I urge Congress to make funding of surface transportation a priority, develop a long-term funding solution, and most importantly, end the intransigence that has for over 20 years stalled our nation’s economy.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 140,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Government%20Shutdown%20Highlights%20U.S.%20Inability%20to%20Solve%20Big%20Problems%20as%20Gas%20Tax%20Reaches%2020th%20Anniversary&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Government%20Shutdown%20Highlights%20U.S.%20Inability%20to%20Solve%20Big%20Problems%20as%20Gas%20Tax%20Reaches%2020th%20Anniversary "Share on 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### [Shutdown Showdown Continues…](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/shutdown-showdown-continues/) **Published:** October 9, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Shutdown%20Showdown%20Continues%E2%80%A6&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Shutdown%20Showdown%20Continues%E2%80%A6 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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At a press conference yesterday Senate Environment and Public Works Chairman, Barbara Boxer (D-CA), joined transportation stakeholders to stress the effects the shutdown is having on the nation’s critical infrastructure. At this time the shutdown is stalling almost 130 highway and bridge projects in 35 states due to the furlough of more than 90 percent of Environmental Protection Agency employees who are responsible for the expedited review of hundreds of road projects. The expedited review process was a hallmark of last summer’s surface transportation authorization, MAP-21, but the current shutdown is defeating one of the legislation’s primary purposes: streamlining project delivery. Faring better are the nation’s critical lock and dam systems, although that might be debatable to unpaid employees. While hundreds of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers personnel have been furloughed and operations like some of the recreational parks the organization runs are closed, the roughly 240 employees who operate the locks have been deemed essential, meaning they have stayed on the job. Keeping the nation’s lock and dam operators on the job once again illustrates the fact that our nation’s waterways are vital to our economy and overall quality of life. Unfortunately, while the locks remain open, the debate on the government shutdown has delayed any further progress on the Water Resources and Reform Development Act moving through the House. At this point the critical legislation is on the back burner until the shutdown is over and the debt ceiling is raised, meaning we do not expect to see WRRDA pass out of the House before late October or early November at the earliest. ASCE will continue to keep you updated on the impacts of the shutdown as the federal government remains shuttered! 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Washington, D.C., has gone deep to go green. While the new school building has all the outward qualities a student could want – a beautiful theater, a gym and pool, open space, and so much more – the most fascinating part of the school’s renovation is under the football field. Yes, the football field. Designed by [architects at Perkins Eastman](http://www.perkinseastman.com/project_3405944_dunbar_high_school "Perkins Eastman - Dunbar"), Dunbar is the largest urban geothermal system in the District at 850 tons of capacity and is essentially sourcing its heating and cooling from 362 wells dug 460 feet into the core of D.C. Using roof solar panels, two 20,000-gallon cisterns for reusing rainwater for toilet flushing, and radiant heating systems, Dunbar is set to achieve LEED Platinum certification for their new school facility. [Read more about the geothermal well system here.](http://prezi.com/-mz2faxo0aqj/dunbar-high-school/) [Take a photo tour here.](http://www.washingtoncitypaper.com/slideshows/photos/316/the-new-dunbar-high-school) [Watch a video about the history of Dunbar High here.](http://www.pbs.org/video/2365088513/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=D.C.%E2%80%99s%20Dunbar%20High%20School%20Goes%20Deep%20to%20Go%20Green&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=D.C.%E2%80%99s%20Dunbar%20High%20School%20Goes%20Deep%20to%20Go%20Green "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=D.C.%E2%80%99s%20Dunbar%20High%20School%20Goes%20Deep%20to%20Go%20Green&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** stem, sustainability --- ### [Infrastructure This Week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-this-week/) **Published:** October 11, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Infrastructure%20This%20Week "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20This%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The government shutdown continues to loom over our nation’s infrastructure, causing uncertainty, [hurting key services](http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2013/10/the-shutdown-will-slowly-reduce-our-weather-preparedness/280370/), and [further showing the costs of Congressional intransigence](http://thehill.com/blogs/transportation-report/automobiles/326689-push-for-gas-tax-hike-gets-lost-in-shutdown-hoopla#ixzz2h3Sd5uOc). Much like the government itself, our infrastructure has to [get out of the short-term mindset](http://thehill.com/opinion/op-ed/327313-paying-the-price-for-20-years-of-duct-taping-our-infrastructure#ixzz2hEGw0GA7), and start planning for long-term growth. Only then will we find success. The good news is [businesses](http://www.politico.com/story/2013/10/barge-owners-hike-our-tax-to-fix-waterways-98129.html%20) and [local leaders](http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2013/oct/09/facing-risks-challenges-of-future-growth/) are starting to feel the costs of under-investment, and are contemplating ways to plan for future growth. Talk to you next week! 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Infrastructure%20This%20Week "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20This%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** career development, congress, economics, infrastructure --- ### [How Has the Shutdown Affected You?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/how-has-the-shutdown-affected-you/) **Published:** October 11, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=How%20Has%20the%20Shutdown%20Affected%20You%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=How%20Has%20the%20Shutdown%20Affected%20You%3F "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=How%20Has%20the%20Shutdown%20Affected%20You%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Due to the inability of Congress to pass a budget by October 1st, the federal government has been shutdown for 11 days and counting. With negotiations inching forward slowly we need your help! In order to resolve the impasse in Congress ASCE is looking for real life stories about how the shutdown has affected civil engineers. Has a project you are working on been delayed? Have friends, family, or coworkers been furloughed? Is our infrastructure at a greater risk due to the shutdown? Please share your stories with us so that we can take them to Members of Congress and get the government to open its doors again. Send all stories, examples, or harrowing tales to ASCE government relations at <govwash@asce.org> or contact Caroline Sevier, Senior Manager of Federal Government Relations, at 202-789-7852. Don’t forget to include: - Your name, - Where you live, - Where you work, and - What you do (in 20 words or less). 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email")](mailto:?subject=How%20Has%20the%20Shutdown%20Affected%20You%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress --- ### [Riding the Rails Is On the Rise](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/riding-the-rails-is-on-the-rise/) **Published:** October 16, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Rail ridership is continuing to show year-over-year growth, and it’s a trend that doesn’t seems to be changing anytime soon. With the se[cond best year of ridership in the Northeast Corridor (despite Hurricane Sandy’s disruption)](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2013/10/14/amtrak-ceo-touts-record-ridership-for-fy-2013/) and [several other smaller and medium sized cities showing upticks in ridership,](http://dc.streetsblog.org/2013/10/15/smaller-cities-propel-amtrak-ridership-to-a-new-high/) Amtrak appears to be building momentum across the U.S. Rail ridership isn’t the only positive trend we’re seeing with rail. [In the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, rail earned one of the best grades, a C+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/rail/overview)due to an increase of maintenance and strong planning for future needs. In 2010 alone, freight railroads renewed the rails on more than 3,100 miles of railroad track, equivalent to going coast to coast across the U.S. [Check out all the places Amtrak goes here!](http://www.amtrak.com/train-routes) [Find out more about America’s rail network here.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/rail/overview) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Riding%20the%20Rails%20Is%20On%20the%20Rise&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Riding%20the%20Rails%20Is%20On%20the%20Rise "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Riding%20the%20Rails%20Is%20On%20the%20Rise&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Back to Work](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/back-to-work-2/) **Published:** October 17, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Finally, after 16 days, the [federal government shutdown is over](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics-live/liveblog/live-updates-the-government-reopens/?hpid=z2#45172d84-9298-4226-9ae1-b7295ef0e348 "Washington Post shutdown coverage") and things can get back to normal: Americans can once again visit all our National Parks, government workers can be assured of [receiving paychecks](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics-live/liveblog/live-updates-the-government-reopens/?hpid=z2#c4cb499f-9f0a-43e0-b8b1-8bf6741048b8 "federal pay update"), etc. However, it will likely take some time for everything to get back to normal, including lawmakers’ offices dealing with constituent communications. Were you one of the millions of Americans who registered your thoughts on the shutdown with your Representative and/or Senators in the past 2-3 weeks? Or perhaps you actually cared more about a different issue? Honestly, don’t look for a response any time soon. Many lawmakers’ offices have been reduced to just a few senior aides over the past 16 days, and email inboxes and voicemail boxes are still overflowing. Just a few things to keep in mind regarding communicating with your elected officials in Washington, DC: - Congressional offices can barely keep up with the average level of in-bound constituent communications when they are fully staffed ([Congressional Management Foundation](http://www.congressfoundation.org/projects/communicating-with-congress/how-citizen-advocacy-is-changing-mail-operations-on-capitol-hill "Congressional Management Foundation")). The backlog most offices are currently experiencing means that you likely will not see a response to your message soon, if ever. This is less than ideal, but nonetheless is the situation we are in now. Call it an unavoidable consequence of the shutdown. - As always, your message is most likely to be read, and you are more likely to get a quality response, if you write in your own words, instead of copying a form letter someone else has written for you. - If you already know a staffer in a Congressional office, perhaps by meeting with them either in Washington or in a district office or event, email that person directly on an issue, rather than sending your message to the lawmaker’s general inbox through an online system (such as ASCE’s [Click & Connect with Congress](http://capwiz.com/asce/home/ "Click & Connect with Congress")). Communication between citizens and their elected officials remains the bedrock of our system of government. Many polls indicate citizens are more dissatisfied than ever with their representatives, and if you are one of these folks you may be wondering, “Why bother?” Engaging with your elected officials may not fix things overnight, but our situation certainly will not improve without continued communication and involvement from informed citizens. 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**Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On October 27th, the National Geographic Channel presents *American Blackout*, a two-hour programming event that imagines the first two weeks immediately following a catastrophic blackout from a cyber-attack on the United States that takes down the power grid. This movie should serve as a stark reminder about the importance of our electric grid. At ASCE, we are concerned with what we can control, such as investing and upgrading of our mostly antiquated power grid. While the film is indeed impactful, the great news is that we—you, me, and our elected officials—can control the reliability and vitality of our nation’s electricity. In the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, ASCE awarded the nation’s Energy sector a D+. Today, the U.S. relies on an aging electrical grid and pipeline distribution system, some of which originated in the 1880s. While demand for electricity has remained level, the availability of energy will become a greater challenge as the population increases. As part of our efforts to better understand the importance of infrastructure, we conducted a series of economic studies we call “Failure to Act” that look at how underinvestment hurts our economy. Unless the investment gap is filled, blackouts and brownouts will increase costs for households and businesses. If we close the gap in investment (at total of $107 Billion) in our power system, we can protect 529,000 lost jobs and $656 billion in lost personal income by 2020. Solutions for our energy needs are prevalent. We need to be more lenient in the siting of new transmission lines that will relieve congestion and facilitate the transfer of electricity from renewable energy sources as we phase out our backbone of coal fired power plants. We must reduce the long and costly permitting process that unfairly target overhead power lines; when a transmission line can cost up to ten times as much to permit it than it does to build it, we have a problem. And finally, we need political leadership at all levels to have the courage to invest in our systems, assure reliability, and plan for the overall life-cycle costs of this critical infrastructure. Only by working together can we hope to improve our energy grid and avoid an *American Blackout.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20National%20Geographic%20Event%20Offers%20Opportunity%20to%20Reexamine%20Electric%20Grid&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economic study, energy, infrastructure, report card, sustainability --- ### [ASCE Hails Passage of Water Resources Reform and Development Act as Linchpin in Modernizing Nation’s Ports, Inland Waterways, Dams and Levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-hails-passage-of-water-resources-reform-and-development-act-as-linchpin-in-modernizing-nations-ports-inland-waterways-dams-and-levees/) **Published:** October 24, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")**Washington, D.C.** — The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding the passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act by the U.S. House of Representatives: “The American Society of Civil Engineers applauds the bipartisan passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA). The bill promotes economic growth and job creation through policies that strengthen U.S. infrastructure, allowing the nation to remain competitive in the 21st century. “ASCE’s [2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded the nation’s [ports a C](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/ports/overview), [inland waterways a D-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/inland-waterways/overview), [dams a D](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/dams/overview), and [levees a D-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/levees/overview). Our nation’s water resources are critical to our economy, our infrastructure, public safety, and the preservation and enhancement of our environmental resources. In fact, ASCE’s Failure to Act economic study on the nation’s marine ports and inland waterways shows that underinvesting in just these two sectors threatens more than one million U.S. jobs and $270 billion in U.S. exports by 2020. “When signed into law, WRRDA will drastically reduce the time it takes for project approvals by consolidating or eliminating duplicative studies, permitting concurrent reviews, and streamlining environmental reviews. The reforms in the law are not at the expense of environmental quality and will allow for a stronger, safer national water resources infrastructure. In addition, ASCE strongly supports wording in the bill that will incrementally increase expenditures out of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund so that our nation’s ports can remain competitive on a global level. “ASCE is pleased that Congress has collaborated to pass WRRDA and invest in America’s future. This decisive action will ensure that our nation’s ports, waterways, dams and levees receive the funding they require. We look forward to working with the conference committee as it develops a final Water Resources Development Act for the president’s signature.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Hails%20Passage%20of%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act%20as%20Linchpin%20in%20Modernizing%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Ports%2C%20Inland%20Waterways%2C%20Dams%20and%20Levees&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Hails%20Passage%20of%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act%20as%20Linchpin%20in%20Modernizing%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Ports%2C%20Inland%20Waterways%2C%20Dams%20and%20Levees "Share on 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**Categories:** Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economic study, infrastructure, ports, report card, water --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-2/) **Published:** October 25, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F11%2Frefe.png&p%5Btitle%5D=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Unless you fail to check this blog everyday (how dare you!), you should know that the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) passed this week](http://transportation.house.gov/wrrda/) . This is the first water bill to pass Congress in six years, and will help fix our ailing levees, ports, dams, and waterways. This passage was an effort by numerous organizations, and we thank them all immensely. From [media outreach](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-a-budget/329383-infrastructure-bill-an-opportunity-for-bipartisanship) to good ‘ole fashioned grassroots advocacy, the coordinated campaign surrounding WRRDA showed how many in Washington are committed to improving our infrastructure—a positive sign for things to come. WRRDA is a bill that will help our economy and create jobs. A great sign is i[nfrastructure advocates from across the country](http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_24341200/investing-infrastructure-mattersknow) value our issues. This week we [participated in an event in Denver](http://www.betterroads.com/policy-forum-in-denver-focuses-on-infrastructure-investment/) with the local Chamber of Commerce and Building America’s Future titled “Investing in Infrastructure Matters.” Events like these allow us to talk to new groups and build coalitions to[ raise America’s infrastructure grades](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). Obviously, this was a good week for America’s infrastructure, yet regrettably, our problems are too large for just one bill to fix. Now is the time for leadership and action. If you are interested in helping us Raise the Grades, please follow us on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SaveUSAInfrastructure) or [Twitter](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel) and stay up to date on this continuing effort. Have a good weekend. Until next week. 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Transportation and Infrastructure Committee in April to examine the current state of freight transportation in the United States and how improving freight transportation can strengthen the U.S. economy, released its [final report and recommendations](http://transportation.house.gov/sites/republicans.transportation.house.gov/files/documents/FreightReportSmall.pdf) yesterday. The special panel, led by Chairman John Duncan Jr. (R-TN) and Ranking Member Jerrold Nadler ( D-NY), also examined ways to increase the efficiency, safety and overall condition and performance of the nation’s freight network; how technology assists in the movement of freight; and financing options for transportation projects. To examine these issues, the panel held six public hearings and three roundtable discussions; in addition to touring freight facilities in Southern California, the Memphis region, the New York City and Northern New Jersey region, and Norfolk, Virginia. The final report concluded that Congress should: - Establish a national freight transportation policy and designate a multimodal freight network; - Ensure “robust” public investment in all modes of freight transportation and incentivize additional private investment; - Promote the development of projects that improve the movement of goods; - Authorize dedicated, sustainable funding for multimodal freight projects through a grant process; - Identify and recommend sources of revenue to provide investment in the nation’s freight network; - Develo p specific funding options for freight transportation projects prior to Congress’s consideration of the surface transportation reauthorization bill in 2014. ASCE is pleased with the final report and urges Congress to continue to discuss additional revenue options for the Highway Trust Fund. With the Congressional Budget Office anticipating that the Highway Trust Fund will be broke in 2015, the time to figure out how to fund surface transportation programs going forward is **NOW**. While revenue for the Highway Trust Fund continues to fall short, the current lack of infrastructure investment has also weakened or nation’s surface transportation system, as well as critical industries and construction employment. Our inability to keep our infrastructure efficient undermines the U.S. competitiveness and economic strength. ASCE’s [*2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)graded the nation’s infrastructure a “D+” based on 16 categories and found that the nation needs to invest approximately $3.6 trillion by 2020 to maintain the national infrastructure in good condition. The following are the grades and the investment needs by 2020 for the categories related to the movement of freight: - - Air received a grade of D and has an estimated investment need of $134 billion; - Bridges received a grade of C+; - Transit received a D; - Roads received a grade of D, and combined with bridges, and transit, have an estimated investment need of $1.7 trillion; and - Rail received a grade of C+ and has an estimated investment need of $100 billion. By continuing to under invest in our nation’s freight system an ASCE study, *[Failure to Act: the Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/)*, found the nation’s deteriorating transportation system will cost the American economy more than 876,000 jobs, and suppress the growth of the country’s GDP by $897 billion in 2020. [![Improving the Nation's Freight Transportation System - Findings and Recommendations of the Special Panel on 21st Century Freight Transportation](/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/FreightThumbnail1-230x300.png "45 Cities Join to Launch Resilient Communities for America Initiative")](/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/FreightThumbnail1.png)While the bipartisan report does not necessarily break any significant new ground, or specifically recommend new revenue sources for the ailing Highway Trust Fund, it does provide a strong foundation for MAP-21 reauthorization next year. Criticisms of the report for punting the funding solution to the Obama Administration are not unwarranted; however, the report does discuss a number of possible revenue sources, including public-private partnerships and a several freight-specific options, such as customs duties and a freight waybill tax. This bipartisan nature of the discussion on these topics does break new ground in a Congress where new revenue options have been shunned in the past. By laying out the problems with the freight system, as well as the growing concern for a lack of future revenue with a year to go until MAP-21 reauthorization, the report allows the critical conversation to commence. Additionally, it can prove as a critical education tool for new member of Congress who might not be as familiar with the impending insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund in the run up toward next September. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Freight%20Panel%20Comes%20Out%20With%20New%20Report&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [A Jack-O-Lantern School Modernization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-jack-o-lantern-school-modernization/) **Published:** October 31, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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of a jack-o-lantern school modernization. Changing the school from the inside-out, Whatcom now has all the modern conveniences of a new school and (even better) the seismic upgrades to make it resilient to the next earthquake, but it still has the same historical character of the school that was started in 1903. However, almost half of America’s public school buildings are like Whatcom – they’re much older than you might think and built to educate the baby boomers – a generation that is now retiring from the workforce. 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email")](mailto:?subject=A%20Jack-O-Lantern%20School%20Modernization&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** education, infrastructure, school facilities, success story --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure 2](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-2-2/) **Published:** November 1, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%202 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%202&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week was the [one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-foster/one-year-later-hurricane-_b_4173462.html), reminding us that all infrastructure is connected. When we cannot bounce back from unavoidable events, [we hurt our economy](http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2013/10/28/-nobody-wants-topaypoorinfrastructuremadesandysimpactworse.html). One only needs to read the countless stories this week on Sandy to see [the impacts still being felt](http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/10/28/hurricane-sandy-before-and-after.html). As with almost all infrastructure, the question is how we pay for these repairs and who bears the financial burden. As politicians debate these issues, [real families and real businesses](http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/breakout/retirement-delayed-jersey-shore-business-funds-sandy-repairs-134454126.html) continue to fight and overcome from this tragedy. Interestingly, the anniversary of Hurricane Sandy coincides with next week’s upcoming elections. Localities and states continue to struggle with funding our nation’s infrastructure, perhaps best summarized in this quote from [U.S. Conference of Mayors President Scott Smith (mayor of Mesa, AZ)](http://www.politico.com/story/2013/10/head-of-mayors-group-disgusted-by-shutdown-98955.html?hp=l14): “I think there is one thing mayors as a whole are concerned about and that is the seeming lack of commitment and excitement about long-term transportation and infrastructure investments.” Luckily, the great state of Maine is in a position to improve its infrastructure at the ballot box next week. [On Nov. 5, Maine voters will be asked to approve Question 3, which asks whether voters favor a $100 million bond issue for reconstruction and rehabilitation of highways and bridges and for equipment and facilities related to other modes of transportation. This bond would be matched with about $154 million.](http://bangordailynews.com/2013/10/29/opinion/transportation-bond-gives-maine-a-needed-boost/) With the backing of [the Bangor Daily News](http://bangordailynews.com/2013/10/30/opinion/editorials/yes-on-question-3-100-million-for-smooth-roads-fewer-car-repairs-better-maine-economy/?ref=OpinionBox) and other publications, the Question continues to pick up momentum. Hopefully Maine voters will see the direct connection between the Question and their economic future next Tuesday. Till next week. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%202&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, sustainability --- ### [Airline Safety Gets a Dance](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/airline-safety-gets-a-dance/) **Published:** November 4, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Virgin is doing their part to keep safety a priority, using their music video roots to keep us entertained and safe. Say goodbye to videos of the past and say hello to the new way to communicate a safety message. How could you not pay attention? Virgin isn’t the only one putting a fresh face on their safety video. Delta just released a holiday version of their safety video complete with the Abominable Snowman, Santa Claus, Scrooge and Alex Trebek to keep the message fresh throughout the busy holiday travel season. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Airline%20Safety%20Gets%20a%20Dance&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** aviation, education, infrastructure, social media, success story, uncategorized --- ### [Infrastructure Investment Wins at the Ballot Box!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-wins-at-the-ballot-box/) **Published:** November 6, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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in increased investment in their local infrastructure. In Maine voters overwhelming approved Bond Question 3, 72% in favor to 28% opposed. Bond Question 3 gives permission to the State to borrow $100 million to fund transportation projects around the state which in turn would make the State eligible for at least $154 million in matching funds. Proceeds from the sale of these bonds would be administered by the Department of Transportation and would fund at least $49 million for road projects, $27 million for bridge projects and $24 million for multi-modal projects, including facilities and equipment related to ports, harbors, marine transportation, aviation, railroads (both passenger and freight), and transit (public transportation). In Texas Proposition 6 was also approved by a large margin – 73% to 27%. Proposition 6 authorizes the transfer of $2 billion from the state’s Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF or “Rainy Day Fund”) to a State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT). The $2 billion one-time cash infusion will be used with already authorized bonds to provide low interest loans, credit enhancement, interest deferrals, and other financial assistance to projects approved in the State Water Plan. It is expected that the SWIFT will operate as a revolving fund; with repayments funding new loans, the program should provide the financing needed to implement the projects in the 50-year State Water Plan. ASCE supported both of these initiatives through various media channels and Key Alerts to Section members in both states. In Texas, letters to the editor from ASCE members in Texas were picked up by the [Houston Chronicle ](http://www.chron.com/opinion/letters/article/Letters-Clean-water-Cruz-Nolan-Ryan-4914625.php "Houston Chronicle ASCE letter")and [Focus Daily News](http://focusdailynews.com/texas-engineers-say-economic-and-public-health-at-stake-p11318-1.htm "Focus Daily News ASCE letter") and [KLTV](http://www.kltv.com/story/23723021/voters-will-decide-on-2-billion-water-plan-in-november "KLTV ASCE video") in East Texas ran a video spot in which ASCE member Vik Verma, P.E., was highlighted. In Maine, two newspapers, the [Morning Sentinel ](http://www.onlinesentinel.com/opinion/OUR-OPINION-Bond-projects-an-investment-in-states-future-.html "Morning Sentinel ASCE")and the [Bangor Daily News ](http://bangordailynews.com/2013/10/30/opinion/editorials/yes-on-question-3-100-million-for-smooth-roads-fewer-car-repairs-better-maine-economy/?ref=OpinionBox "Bangor Daily News ASCE")each ran supportive editorials that cited the 2012 Report Card for Maine’s Infrastructure. The voters in both of those states have shown that infrastructure investment is a priority. So should you! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Investment%20Wins%20at%20the%20Ballot%20Box%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** elections, infrastructure, state, state report card, transportation, water --- ### [EPA Reports on the Importance of Water to the U.S. Economy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/epa-reports-on-the-importance-of-water-to-the-u-s-economy/) **Published:** November 7, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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released a new report titled [“The Importance of Water to the U.S. Economy.”](http://water.epa.gov/action/importanceofwater/upload/Importance-of-Water-Synthesis-Report.pdf) The report concludes that, as a nation, we do not currently reflect water’s true worth in the economy. A great example is the fact that communities across the country are low-balling the cost of clean, safe tap water. Simply, the rates you and I pay for water are too low. Of course, no one likes hearing that, but if we want the water to keep flowing, we are going to have to price water as the critical resource that it is. As with any utility, the concern is that when it is undervalued, “business-as-usual” will eventually be unsustainable. In the [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), ASCE gave both Drinking Water and Wastewater a “D” grade. These two grades were largely due to the fact that America’s pipes and sewers are sometimes nearly a century old. As one can see, this aging means that the need is growing while the utility itself does not bring in enough money to finance its own operation. This topic is not new to ASCE. In our series of economic reports, titled [Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Failure-to-Act/Water-and-Wastewater/), we found that if America continues down our current path, with no new investments in water infrastructure, we will lose $416 billion in GDP by 2020 due to increased costs and loss of worker productivity. [Households and business would bear the burden, losing $59 billion and $147 billion respectively over that time span](http://www.asce.org/uploadedImages/Infrastructure/Failure_to_Act/Bridging-the-Water-Gap-Infographic-High-Res.jpg). By 2020, the average family budget would be squeezed by $900 as water rates rise and personal income falls. The lesson of Failure to Act is the same as we see in the EPA report: the cost of inaction is unacceptable. [EPA Assistant Administrator Nancy Stoner says](http://water.epa.gov/action/importanceofwater/) the main findings of their report are: 1) Water is absolutely fundamental to the U.S. economy 2) Water value and competition will rise, and 3) Decision-makers in the private and public sectors need more information. The first two conclusions are well taken, and worth repeating; however, the final conclusion does not go far enough. There is ample information—from ASCE, from the EPA, and from other groups—that explains why water is undervalued. What the public and private sector needs is awareness. Replacing the nation’s antiquated pipes will require significant local investment, including higher water rates. Just as with fixing a leaky roof in your home, the longer we wait, the more it will cost. The EPA’s report should serve as yet another call to action for all levels of government to invest in our water infrastructure now. 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email")](mailto:?subject=EPA%20Reports%20on%20the%20Importance%20of%20Water%20to%20the%20U.S.%20Economy&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economic study, infrastructure, jobs, report card, water --- ### [Public Opinion Shows Americans Open to Bus Rapid Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/public-opinion-shows-americans-open-to-bus-rapid-transit/) **Published:** November 12, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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THINKS survey](http://news.hntb.com/news-releases/bus-rapid-transit-attracts-new-riders-and-drives-economic-development.htm), which polled a random nationwide sample of 1,127 Americans. The conclusion: Americans are open to new approaches to public transportation, such as bus rapid transit. But what is ‘bus rapid transit’? Simply, it is a new way of thinking about community bus service. According to HNTB, “Bus rapid transit is a lower-cost, more easily implemented alternative to a rail-based commuter transit system, yet still includes many popular features of rail-based public transportation, such as routes that are clearly laid out and run on a frequent and reliable schedule. BRT systems also often include low-emissions vehicles, electronic and/or automatic payment methods, and real-time arrival and departure updates.” In the [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, Transit earned a “D.”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transit/) The Report Card found that 45% of American households lack any access to transit, and millions more have inadequate service levels. However, Americans who do have access have increased their ridership 9.1% in the past decade. Clearly, as demand for transit service increases, the question becomes how can cities, states, and communities meet this new challenge. HNTB’s study is encouraging in that it shows more and more Americans are seeing the connection between infrastructure investment and economic growth. Hopefully this trend will continue and we can all work together to raise our infrastructure grades. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Public%20Opinion%20Shows%20Americans%20Open%20to%20Bus%20Rapid%20Transit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, jobs, report card, transportation --- ### [America’s Infrastructure Crisis Isn’t Overstated](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/americas-infrastructure-crisis-isnt-overstated/) **Published:** November 14, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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probably stay home. When a contractor tells you that your roof is caving in, you should probably move out. When the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) tells our country that our infrastructure rates a D+, you should probably ask how we can raise the grade. The [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) was released earlier this year, highlighting our country’s infrastructure needs. Due to a growing backlog of infrastructure projects, by the year 2020, United States infrastructure needs face a funding shortfall of $1.6 trillion dollars. Last week, [James Pethokoukis](http://www.aei-ideas.org/author/jpethokoukis/ "View all posts by James Pethokoukis"), a conservative blogger for the American Enterprise Institute, wrote a post that argued that [American infrastructure is doing just fine](http://www.aei-ideas.org/2013/11/actually-america-doesnt-have-a-trillion-dollar-infrastructure-crisis/). In fact, he argues three points to make his case: 1\) Our public investment is equal to “peer” nations, as thus, adequate, 2\) Public construction spending has been the same since 1993, and 3\) Private industry can solve all of these problems alone. The argument that since our public investment is on par with Canada, Germany, and Australia, and that we should be unconcerned, is only valid if all of these counties share similar issues and similar history. Most of America’s infrastructure was built after WWII. These investments of the 20th century spurred our nation’s economic boom and made us a global power. Today, quite simply, that tab is coming due. Australia currently spends 2.4% of GDP on capital investment, compared to 0.60% by the U.S. Canada’s federal government investment in infrastructure is approximately 2.9% of GDP. And though our percentages of GDP spent on infrastructure are indeed comparable to Germany, in 2011, Germany adopted a five-year, $52 billion federal Framework Investment Plan for infrastructure. The question facing our country is are we going to maintain our 20th century foundation while making new investments for a prosperous 21st century. This is a unique challenge. America’s economy must lead the world, and as such, the foundation of that economy—our infrastructure—should lead the way. If we are going to build a sustainable infrastructure network for the 21st century, we also should not take pride in the fact that our investments are unchanged from 1993. Imagine living on the salary you made in 1993 today. Our economy and our nation have both grown since then. The fact that we have maintained the same level of construction spending should serve as a wakeup call to our leaders that we are not doing enough. Roads, bridges, and water systems only cost more to repair and maintain the longer we wait. In addition to the obvious costs of inaction, our aging infrastructure’s effects on our economy continue to grow. In preparation for their Report Card, [ASCE conducted a series of economic analyses](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) to see the effects our ailing infrastructure has on businesses and families. ASCE found that if our country continues on our current investment path between now and 2020, the U.S. will lose: - $3.1 trillion in GDP, almost the equivalent of Germany’s entire GDP - $1.1 trillion in U.S. trade value, equivalent to Mexico’s GDP - 3.5 million jobs, more than the jobs created by the America Recovery and Reinvestment Act - $2.4 trillion in consumer spending, comparable to Brazil’s GDP - $3,100 in annual personal disposable income Given these impacts, it is easy to see that America is already paying for its D+ infrastructure system. Investment would create long-term jobs, spur growth, and increase America’s standing in the global economy. Some of this investment will undoubtedly come from the private sector. Private investment is an essential part of repairing America’s infrastructure. We are seeing public-private partnerships help businesses and families alike, such as the [495 Express Lanes here in the D.C. area](http://www.freeenterprise.com/infrastructure/public-private-partnerships-action-part-i-roads). Yet, as one can see, the size and scope of our problems are massive. The private sector can’t do it alone. During the 20th century, the federal government led the way in building our nation’s greatest infrastructure systems, from the New Deal programs to the Interstate Highway System and the Clean Water Act. Since that time, federal leadership has decreased, and the condition of the nation’s infrastructure has suffered. We need a strong national vision to fix our ailing infrastructure. Long-term planning, combined with long-term funding, will allow our communities to plan for the future and face the challenges of an ever-changing economy. We agree that infrastructure is an underpriced commodity. Too often, our roads, pipes, and waterways are out-of-sight, out-of-mind. We must embrace the reforms put forth in [MAP-21](http://www.freeenterprise.com/infrastructure/highway-and-transit-bill-one-step-forward-two-more-go) and the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act](http://www.freeenterprise.com/infrastructure/united-house-passes-critical-water-resources-legislation) that will increase efficiencies, cut red-tape, and deliver projects faster. For the U.S. economy to be the most competitive in the world, we need a modernized infrastructure system to support it. No one disagrees with the notion that we must invest as efficiently and intelligently as possible, but the only way of being able to ever do so is by acknowledging the breadth and costs of the problem at hand. *Brian Pallasch, CAE is Managing Director of Government Relations & Infrastructure Initiatives for the America Society of Civil Engineers. Janet Kavinoky is Executive Director for Transportation & Infrastructure at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Vice President for the Americans for Transportation Mobility Coalition.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Crisis%20Isn%E2%80%99t%20Overstated&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Crisis%20Isn%E2%80%99t%20Overstated "Share on 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Shortly after agreeing to go to conference Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY) introduced a motion to instruct conferees on the National Dam Safety Program reauthorization. The motion to instruct conferees asks, but cannot require, House conferees to take a certain negotiating position during the WRDA conference. In this case, the motion to instruct conferees would cede to the Senate’s authorization of the dam safety program in S. 601, which provides at $9.2 million in grants, $500,000 for the National Dam Inventory, $1 million for public awareness, and $1.45 million for research. ASCE strongly supports incorporating the Senate dam safety language and worked closely with Congressman Maloney’s office to garner support for the measure. The motion received praise from both sides of the aisle during debate and the final vote for the motion was 347 – 76. The House also selected 28 conferees for the WRDA conference that will now begin. The House appointed 16 Republicans and 12 Democrats from both the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Natural Resources Committee. The conferees are: Bill Shuster (R-PA) John Duncan (R-TN) Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) Sam Graves (R-MO) Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) Candice Miller (R-MI) Duncan Hunter (R-CA) Larry Bucshon (R-IN) Bob Gibbs (R-OH) Richard Hanna (R-NY) Daniel Webster (R-FL) Tom Rice (R-SC) Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) Rodney Davis (R-IL) Doc Hastings (R-WA) Rob Bishop (R-UT) Nick Rahall (D-WV) Peter DeFazio (D-OR) Corrine Brown (D-FL) Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) Tim Bishop (D-NY) Donna Edwards (D-MD) John Garamendi (D-CA) Janice Hahn (D-CA) Rick Nolan (D-MN) Lois Frankel (D-FL) Cheri Bustos (D-IL) Grace Napolitano (D-CA) The Senate agreed by unanimous consent on Oct. 31 to launch conference negotiations. The bills would authorize navigation, flood control and wetland restoration projects. Both versions were passed with bipartisan support in their respective chambers. ASCE urges Congress to conference the Water Resources Development Act quickly. Additionally, ASCE hopes to see a final package that expedites the regulatory and environmental review process, creates a national levee safety program, increases money spent out of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, and reauthorizes the National Dam Safety Program. At this time the biggest difference between the House and Senate bills are on how to select Army Corps of Engineers projects that will be authorized for funding as well as the creation of a national levee safety program, which the Senate bill would create, while the House bill would not. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=California%20DOT%20Issues%20Proposal%20Rule%20for%20Fracking&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=California%20DOT%20Issues%20Proposal%20Rule%20for%20Fracking "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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The California Department of Conservation (DOC) has issued a proposed rule that would govern the petroleum industry’s use of hydraulic fracturing and other methods of recovering oil and natural gas from shale thousands of feet below the Earth’s surface. Technically recoverable shale oil resources in the continental 48 states amount to 23.9 billion barrels. The largest shale oil formation in the U.S., however, is the Monterey—Santos play in southern California, which is estimated to hold 15.4 billion barrels or 64 percent of the nation’s total shale oil resources, a potentially enormous energy supply. But because most shale gas and shale oil wells are only a few years old, their long-term productivity is untested, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Consequently, the long-term production profiles of shale wells and their estimated ultimate recovery of oil and natural gas are uncertain. Nevertheless, the California DOC is getting ready for the increased use of deep oil and gas recovery through a comprehensive set of regulations required by the state legislature in September. The DOC’s proposal was released on the same day the law was signed. [The DOC has established a web site for the rule](http://www.conservation.ca.gov/Index/Pages/Index.aspx). The rule would govern all forms of well stimulation treatment, including hydraulic fracturing. Another key exploration technology, “acid well stimulation treatment,” also would be regulated. Acid stimulation, called acidizing, typically involves the injection of high volumes of hydrofluoric acid, a powerful solvent, into the oil well to dissolve rock deep underground and allow oil to flow up through the well. Conventional hydraulic fracturing, in which water and other chemicals are pumped at high pressure to create fissures in the rocks, reportedly does not work well in many parts of the Monterey Shale—a rock formation known for its complexity and low permeability, which makes hydraulic fracturing less effective. As proposed, the DOC rule would require a permit for well operations; reports of third-party water tests to be provided to all property owners and tenants near the well; pressure testing of all well tubing for at least 30 minutes before well stimulation; monitoring of all wells during and after operations; storage and handling requirements for all treatment fluids; and public disclosure of “the trade name, supplier, concentration, and a brief description of each additive contained in the wells stimulation fluids.” The rule also would require public disclosure of all sources, volumes, and specific composition of all water used in well stimulation and the disclosure of all disposal of well treatment fluids. These requirements track with [ASCE Policy Statement 539, Hydraulic Fracturing](http://www.asce.org/Public-Policies-and-Priorities/Public-Policy-Statements/Policy-Statement-539---Hydraulic-Fracturing/). The ASCE Government Relations Department will analyze the proposed rule in detail and provide the Society’s official comments to the DOC by the January 14, 2014, deadline. ASCE members in California with professional expertise in oil and gas exploration and water-quality issues are urged to visit the DOC web site to determine whether they should comment on the rule as practicing civil engineers. 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Members of our office and the infrastructure community in general have reason to be thankful for a great many things that occurred this past year or exist as a part of America’s infrastructure as a whole. Below are some of the items that our staff is thankful for this year related to our mission. - A successful spring release of our 2013 Report Card and for our members who have tirelessly worked to spread the word in their communities. - The House and Senate are conferencing a Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) bill. - The 2013 Legislative Fly-In participants who helped us reach the goal of having all 50 states represented. - The wonderful variety of State Public Affairs Grants (SPAG) projects that ASCE will be able to fund this year. - The fact that both Maine and Texas passed ballot initiatives this past November greatly increasing infrastructure investment in their states. - All of the state legislators we were able to educate on ASCE’s issues at the National Conference of State Legislators this past summer. - The leadership shown on infrastructure from both sides of the aisle. Infrastructure is the rare issue where the Chamber of Commerce, American Enterprise Institute, labor unions, and environmental organizations all agree and want the same things. At ASCE, we look forward to working with all of them and more in the new year and are excited for what 2014 has in store. It’s been a busy year, and there’s still more work to be done. We should not lose sight of the challenges ahead in adequately investing America’s infrastructure, but it’s also good to look back during a time for giving thanks. 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email")](mailto:?subject=On%20Infrastructure%2C%20Funding%20is%20the%20Challenge&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In a recent op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Philip Howard, of the small-government reform group Common Good, said that when it comes to U.S. infrastructure, [“funding is not the challenge.”](http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303789604579195592650374168) Where to begin? Funding is an immense, complicated, and ever-changing challenge facing our country’s roads, bridges, water systems, dams, and other infrastructure. Our inability to fund our infrastructure hurts our economic competitiveness, meaning fewer jobs for American families. In the [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home), we found that the U.S. faces a $1.6 trillion infrastructure investment need by 2020. We found that unless our infrastructure investment trajectory changes, the United States will lose 3.5 million jobs and $3.1 trillion in gross domestic product by 2020. Simply, funding our infrastructure and funding for future needs is a colossal challenge—a challenge we are not currently meeting. But don’t just take our word for it. [Thomas Donohue](http://money.cnn.com/2013/10/21/news/economy/business-gas-tax/), president of the United States Chamber of Commerce, has repeatedly come out in support of raising the federal fuel tax in order to boost federal transportation funding. [The American Enterprise Institute](http://www.aei.org/events/2013/12/11/strife-in-the-fast-lane-how-to-solve-americas-17-trillion-transportation-problem/?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=web&utm_campaign=112613), a prominent conservative think-tank, is so concerned about our lack of infrastructure funding that that are hosting a policy discussion this December to share policy ideas to fill our funding gap. Howard’s main argument seems to be that we need to reduce red-tape. Obviously, over-stressed bureaucracy hurts our ability to move projects forward. As we recently saw with[ the passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act](http://blogs.asce.org/asce-hails-passage-of-water-resources-reform-and-development-act-as-linchpin-in-modernizing-nations-ports-inland-waterways-dams-and-levees/), Congress and state legislatures all over the country are working to make the infrastructure process more efficient. Reforms to streamline project delivery are a key part of the equation. However, reforms aren’t enough to cover the investment shortfall we face by 2020, particularly for transportation. In 2015, about one year from now, the Highway Trust Fund will be bankrupt. The Fund supports road, bridge, and mass transit projects across the country. The Fund provides millions of dollars annually to repair and strengthen the economic foundation of our nation. If we fail to act, U.S. highway and transit programs will sustain a 92% cut. If this is not an immediate and pressing funding challenge, then what is? Downplaying the impact of funding on our infrastructure is shortsighted. The longer we wait to act and create sustainable funding mechanisms for our infrastructure, the more it will cost. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=On%20Infrastructure%2C%20Funding%20is%20the%20Challenge&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=On%20Infrastructure%2C%20Funding%20is%20the%20Challenge "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=On%20Infrastructure%2C%20Funding%20is%20the%20Challenge&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Funding, highway trust fund, report card --- ### [Blumenauer Proposes Gas Tax Increase](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/blumenauer-proposes-gas-tax-increase/) **Published:** December 4, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Blumenauer%20Proposes%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Blumenauer%20Proposes%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on 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legislation](http://blumenauer.house.gov/press-releases/blumenauer-joined-by-leaders-in-transportation-commerce-labor-construction-to-introduce-update-act-to-fund-infrastructure/) that would incrementally raise the 18.4-cents-per-gallon federal gas tax to 33.4 cents-per-gallon. Blumenauer’s proposal, the Update, Promote, and Develop America’s Transportation Essentials (UPDATE) Act, increases the gas tax by 15 cents, which is in line with a proposal that was included in the 2011 Simpson-Bowles budget reform recommendations. ASCE joined the Congressman at a press conference this morning in support of the legislation. The nation’s infrastructure is facing an increasing number of challenges. In ASCE’s [2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home), a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure across 16 sectors, the cumulative GPA for the nation’s infrastructure rose slightly to a D+ from a D in 2009. The 2013 Report Card estimates total investment needs at $3.6 trillion by 2020 across all 16 sectors, leaving a funding shortfall of $1.6 trillion based on current funding levels. The federal gas tax has not changed in twenty years and for the past five years revenue streams have fallen far short of what is needed to address America’s infrastructure needs. However, the problems of the past five years are small in comparison to the 10-year shortfall projected by Congressional Budget Office. To prevent bankruptcy of the Highway Trust Fund in 2015, federal surface transportation investment would have to be zeroed out for that year. This is an unacceptable path. By gradually increasing the gas tax by 15 cents through the UPDATE Act and also establishing a competitive grant program to fund vehicle miles traveled pilot programs through a separate piece of legislation call the Road User Fee Pilot Project, Congressman Blumenauer’s bills will once again provide our nation’s surface transportation with long-term, sustainable revenue for the years to come. It will take this bold leadership to ensure that the Highway Trust Fund can support our needed infrastructure improvements and continue to grow the economy. ASCE [looks forward](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/2012/ASCE%20Endorsement%20of%20UPDATE%20Act.pdf) to working with Congressman Blumenauer and he works to advance infrastructure funding in Congress. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Blumenauer%20Proposes%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Congress Headed for a Fight on Science](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-headed-for-a-fight-on-science/) **Published:** December 5, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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issue. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chair Lamar Smith (R-TX) has circulated [draft legislation to reauthorize and replace the America COMPETES Act](http://science.house.gov/sites/republicans.science.house.gov/files/documents/HHRG-113-SY14-20131113-SD002%20.pdf). Entitled the “Frontiers in Innovation, Research, Science, Technology Act of 2013” or FIRST Act, the draft is the reported first of two bills that would reauthorize key civilian research programs of the federal government. The COMPETES Act, or the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act of 2007, was first passed in 2007 and reauthorized in 2010 by large bipartisan margins. The proposed legislation authorizes and directs a wide range of activities of federal agencies and offices including the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Department of Energy, and the National Science Foundation (NSF), essentially the bulk of the nation’s non-medical, civilian research and development. On the Senate side, the Commerce, Space and Transportation Committee held a hearing on November 6th, while no draft legislation has been circulated by the Senate, Senators on both sides of the aisle stressed the importance of research and development and voiced strong support to continuing in the spirit of the COMPETES Act. [In contrast, a November 13th hearing of the House Science Committee’s Subcommittee on Research and Technology proved far more contentious.](http://news.sciencemag.org/funding/2013/11/house-hearing-skates-over-big-disagreements-nsf-reauthorization) The hearing focused on the draft legislation which contains a proposal that would require the National Science Foundation (NSF) to justify every grant it awards as being in the “national interest”. The provision would require the NSF to document how its basic-science grants benefit the country. The bill defines includes an expansive definition of natural interest that includes six goals: economic competitiveness, health and welfare, scientific literacy, partnerships between academia and industry, promotion of scientific progress and national defense. Those criteria are in line with a ‘broader impacts’ assessment that the NSF already requires scientists to include in their grant applications. But the bill would place an extra requirement on NSF program directors by requiring them to publish justification for each grant award on the foundation’s website. The science, engineering, and technology communities remain concerned that the proposal would disrupt the long time peer-review method of making research grants and replace it with federal employees making grant decisions. Science Committee staffers have told science community groups that the proposed language is necessary to gain support or at least preempt opposition from some conservative lawmakers who object to funding of social science research and some research they see as “silly or unnecessary”. While NSF acknowledges that they need to improve communicating the merits of grants across the board – they stand by their assertion that through the widely accepted peer-review process, NSF funds the best science. ASCE supports a quick re-authorization of the nation’s civilian research and development programs, and joins with science, engineering, and technology organizations, universities, and corporations in expressing concern with the House proposal to alter the peer review method of grant selection. The draft has also been criticized for a lack of vision and merely being a list of items the Majority believes need to be corrected. The bottom line is that the controversy will likely join the long list of issues that progress has slowed or stopped. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Headed%20for%20a%20Fight%20on%20Science&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** COMPETES Act, science --- ### [Lighting Airports Runways with LEDs Saves Big for Raleigh](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/lighting-airports-runways-with-leds-saves-big-for-raleigh/) **Published:** December 9, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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can work today, and what if it’s as simple as switching out the lights? The replacement of the entire airfield electrical system at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) represents the first major air carrier airport in the United States to complete a full airfield conversion to FAA-certified LED airfield lighting. Beginning in 2008, the $20 million, two-year project replaced roughly 230 signs and 3,200 bulbs lighted with incandescent lighting — everything from taxiway edge and centerline lighting to runway centerline lights, obstruction lights, touchdown zone lights, runway end identifier lights, and elevated and in-pavement guard lights — with LED technology. The transition will save approximately $400,000 per year in energy and maintenance costs, including labor and parts. With AIP funds covering 75 percent of Phase One and North Carolina state funds and federal stimulus funds combining for Phase Two, maintenance savings alone are expected to recoup the airport’s portion of the project’s cost within 18 months. [Find out more here on RDU’s website.](http://www.rdu.com/authority/conservation.html "RDU") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Lighting%20Airports%20Runways%20with%20LEDs%20Saves%20Big%20for%20Raleigh&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Lighting%20Airports%20Runways%20with%20LEDs%20Saves%20Big%20for%20Raleigh "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Lighting%20Airports%20Runways%20with%20LEDs%20Saves%20Big%20for%20Raleigh&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Airports, energy, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, solutions, transportation --- ### [An Invitation: ASCE’s Congressional Fellow Program Accepting Applications](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/an-invitation-asces-congressional-fellow-program-accepting-applications/) **Published:** December 16, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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It’s safe to say the man had a point. For the past 18 years, ASCE has selected a member as part of ASCE’s Congressional Fellow program and allowed them to work and learn on Capitol Hill. A year later, as most return to their lives as civil engineers, ASCE has gained a member who understands what Congress does, how it does it, and how it works (and why it sometimes does not). Congress, on the other hand, has gained a better understanding of real world issues and perhaps a better understanding of the impact – good and bad – of its actions. Consider this is your invitation to leave the orderly world of engineering behind for a year and be immersed in the decidedly unordered world of the United States Congress. More plainly, in honor of the recent passing of Lou Reed, ASCE is looking for a member interested in taking a walk on the wild side. ASCE’s Congressional Fellow spends one year working as a Congressional staffer. To date, eighteen ASCE members have served as an ASCE Congressional Fellow; all emerged from the experience unscathed, and even, encouraged by their experience. The ASCE Fellows join with more than 30 colleagues from 22 other engineering and scientific organizations to bring engineering and scientific advice to members of Congress. Since its founding by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) in 1973, the Congressional Fellows Program has had several objectives. First and foremost has been to create a cadre of Congressional staffers who understand science and engineering and enhance the capabilities of Congress to deal with those issues. A second objective has been to develop a group of scientists and engineers who understand Congress and who will return to help the science and engineering community improve its ability to impact public policy. The third objective has been to expose members of Congress and their staffs to the ways of thinking in scientific and engineering fields. The final objective has been to make it easier for the general scientific and engineering community to deliver messages to Congress. The Congressional Fellowship is open to any ASCE member who is a U.S. citizen. Factors to be weighed by the selection committee include advanced degrees, registration as a Professional Engineer, involvement in ASCE, public policy experience and professional experience. Additionally, the selection committee must also be sensitive to possible conflicts of interest. If you think you have what it takes, and want to see what Mr. Churchill was talking about, then please apply. It is said that Congress is where extremely smart people work to make something happen and equally smart people work to make sure it doesn’t. As engineers, we like to think that the solution to the equation 1+1 is not negotiable, no matter how hard some may try. So, if are you interested in watching the sausage being made and are ready to dive head first into the very epicenter of our 237 year old experiment in self-government, then you might be ready to be an ASCE Congressional Fellow. The deadline for the 2014-2015 Fellowship is March 7, 2014. Please take the time to learn more about the [Congressional Fellows program](http://www.asce.org/congressional-fellows/) or contact Martin Hight, Senior Manager, Government Relations at <mhight@asce.org>. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Countdown%20Begins%20%E2%80%93%20Our%20Federal%20Funding%20for%20Transportation%20May%20Run%20Dry%20Next%20Year&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Transportation is a key issue in 2014 as the Highway Trust Fund will be insolvent by 2015 and MAP-21 is set to expire in September. In some states, transportation projects are already being put on hold because of the uncertainty of future federal funding. The [UPDATE Act introduced by Rep. Earl Blumenauer ](http://blumenauer.house.gov/uploads/12.2.13%20UPDATE%20Act%20of%202013.pdf)(D-OR) is just one of several current proposals regarding infrastructure funding supported by ASCE. To date, the motor fuels user fee (gas tax) has proven to be an efficient, reliable, and fair method of funding our nation’s surface transportation programs. At present, the federal motor fuels tax generates revenues that are reserved for investment in highway and public transportation improvements through the Highway Trust Fund. However, the 18.4 cents per gallon federal gas tax has not been adjusted since 1993 and has lost one-third of its purchasing power over the last 17 years. According to the Consumer Price Index, the costs of many household items have nearly doubled over the last 20 years. Some examples include: - A loaf of bread: 1993: $0.75, 2013: $1.41 - A pound of coffee: 1993: $2.50, 2013: $5.21 - A new car: 1993: $12,750, 2013: $31,252 Despite these price increases, the federal gas tax has remained stagnant with no increase over that time. Presidents Reagan, Bush, and Clinton all raised the gas tax during their administrations. To have the same buying power today as it did in 1993, [the gasoline tax would have to be 30 cents per gallon and the diesel tax 39 cents per gallon](http://apps.itd.idaho.gov/Apps/MediaManagerMVC/NewsClipping.aspx/Preview/69979). The proposed 15 cents per gallon increase in the UPDATE ACT would cost the average driver less than $3 per week. Meanwhile, as we’ve noted, our insufficient surface transportation system will cost the average American family $1,060 per year by 2020. One does not need to use a calculator to see that this increase would save American families in their pocketbook, boost American business, and help grow our economy. Since the passage of Transportation Equity Act (ISTEA) in 1998, the Highway Trust Fund has been fire-walled for use on only surface transportation projects—eliminating concerns of bureaucratic misuse. This is simply a question of will—the will to invest in our communities, our cities, and our states. When it comes to infrastructure, we can either pay now or pay more in the future. The ASCE economic study, [Failure to Act – The Economic Impact of Current Investment Trends in Surface Transportation Infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/report-card/economic-study/), showed that in 2010, deficiencies in America’s roads, bridges, and transit systems cost American households and businesses roughly $130 billion. The study found that by 2020, the nation’s poor surface transportation infrastructure would cost each American family $1,060 per year. That is a lot of money. At ASCE, we support fixing our future problems now, not only to save money, but to begin building a modern economy for a modern world. So, as you travel for Christmas and the New Year, please do us a favor and fill up your gas tank. It might be the best way to save money this holiday season. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Countdown%20Begins%20%E2%80%93%20Our%20Federal%20Funding%20for%20Transportation%20May%20Run%20Dry%20Next%20Year&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, roads --- ### [Meet IP3, the New P3 Where Citizens Are the Owners](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/meet-ip3-the-new-p3-where-citizens-are-the-owners/) **Published:** December 19, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Privatization](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/AEI-Road-Privatization-230x300.jpg "AEI Report")](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/AEI-Road-Privatization.jpg)If you follow the infrastructure financing debate about how America is going to fund our future infrastructure needs, you have probably heard the term P3 or public-private partnership discussed as an innovative financing structure to utilize private investment in public infrastructure. However, with the release of the [American Enterprise Institute’s new report, Road Pricing and Asset Publicization,”](http://www.aei.org/files/2013/12/10/-road-pricing-and-asset-publicization_12592596596.pdf "AEI Report") there is a new angle for the debate – the **investment public-private partnership (IP3).** So what exactly is this IP3? Here’s how the report’s authors explain it: “The IP3 recognizes that you not the federal government or a private company—own roads that have already been built. And it offers you an annual payment for investing in them…. Under an IP3, a private company pays a public partner (like a state) a large upfront cash payment (called a concession) for the right to operate and collect toll revenue from an existing road network for a certain period of time. The IP3 locks away most of that concession payment—and most of the toll revenue—in a protected investment fund that pays an annual dividend to all households in the newly priced region. That helps offset the additional costs they will face from tolls, while recognizing that citizens are the true owners of the roads.” America’s roads are definitely in need of repair so the more new ideas that are debated that’s all the better including P3s,[ gas tax changes and fixes](http://blogs.asce.org/blumenauer-proposes-gas-tax-increase/), and [all the others](http://www.asce.org/Public-Policies-and-Priorities/Public-Policy-Statements/Authorization-of-the-Nation-s-Surface-Transportation-Funding-Program--A-Blueprint-for-Success/). While P3s are only one potential solution among the many, one thing is for certain – it’s time to start debating before [the Highway Trust Fund is broke](http://blogs.asce.org/americas-infrastructure-crisis-isnt-overstated/) and many states lose half of their highway and bridge funding. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Meet%20IP3%2C%20the%20New%20P3%20Where%20Citizens%20Are%20the%20Owners&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, P3, roads, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Celebrating Infrastructure Successes in 2013](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/celebrating-infrastructure-successes-in-2013/) **Published:** December 27, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Here are a few that really made our year: [![RC app](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/RC-app.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/RC-app.jpg)**1.** The **[2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20131220-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=1417&elq=8df5bd62714a41a983b3d36f6e7d0437 "Report Card for America's Infrastructure")** was launched in March as a tablet and smartphone app gaining more traction with the media and decision makers than ever before and was even mentioned by President Obama during a “Rebuilding America” event at the Port of Miami. **2.** **[S](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20131220-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=13834&elq=8df5bd62714a41a983b3d36f6e7d0437 "Colbert Report")[tephen Colbert showcased the uptick in America’s Report Card grades as a “Tiny Triumph” on the Colbert Report](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20131220-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=13834&elq=8df5bd62714a41a983b3d36f6e7d0437 "Colbert Report")** in April taking the infrastructure message to a whole new audience. **3.** [The ](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Report-Card/State-and-Local-Report-Cards/ "State Report Cards")**[Water Resources Development Act](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20131220-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=15722&elq=8df5bd62714a41a983b3d36f6e7d0437 "Water Resources Development Act")** which will greatly help our ports and inland waterways deal with their pressing needs is currently in the hands of a House and Senate conference committee, and we hope to see it enacted early in 2014 (stay tuned!). [It’s not too late to tell your member of Congress that this should be on Congress’ 2014 to-do list. Email them right here with a few clicks.](http://capwiz.com/reportcard/home/ "Email Congress") **4. Major infrastructure funding legislative initiatives took off in several states** including Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Vermont, Wyoming, Texas, and Maine. **5. Several new bills were**[ **introduced that would start improving the nation’s infrastructure**](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20131220-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=16037&elq=8df5bd62714a41a983b3d36f6e7d0437 "Bills in Congress"): The Partnership to Build America Act (H.R. 2084), which could re-shape the way infrastructure in the United States is financed; the UPDATE Act (H.R. 3636), which would increase investment in transportation infrastructure through an increase in the federal gas tax/user fee; the BRIDGE Act (S. 1716)/National Infrastructure Development Bank Act (H.R. 2553), both of which would facilitate infrastructure investment through creation of a national infrastructure bank. [![NC RC cover](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/NC-RC-cover-232x300.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/NC-RC-cover.png) **6. [Five states – North Carolina, Oklahoma, Kansas, Missouri, and Washington – put out state-based Infrastructure Report Cards](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Report-Card/State-and-Local-Report-Cards/ "State Report Cards")** challenging their state’s leaders to get to work on the infrastructure issues in their area. Thanks for your support in making these happen and we look forward to making 2014 an even bigger year for infrastructure! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Celebrating%20Infrastructure%20Successes%20in%202013&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** app, media, report card, state, state report cards, transportation, water --- ### [Infrastructure Is the Missing Ingredient to Healthy School Lunches](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/whats-the-missing-ingredient-to-healthy-school-lunches-infrastructure/) **Published:** December 30, 2013 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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requirements**. That’s right – the majority of America’s schools need to fix their school’s infrastructure problems in order to serve up healthy school lunches every day. Here’s a few of their key findings: [![school kitchen top 5 needs](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/school-kitchen-top-5-needs.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/school-kitchen-top-5-needs.jpg) [![infra schools kitchens](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/infra-schools-kitchens.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/infra-schools-kitchens.jpg) [![financial resources to make chg to school kitchens](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/financial-resources-to-make-chg-to-school-kitchens.jpg "OverviewInfographic_WebFinal")](/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/financial-resources-to-make-chg-to-school-kitchens.jpg) Find out more about America’s school infrastructure needs in the [Schools section of the](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/schools/overview "Schools") [*2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/schools/overview "Schools"). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Is%20the%20Missing%20Ingredient%20to%20Healthy%20School%20Lunches&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Schools **Tags:** infrastructure, infrastructure investment, report card, schools, state --- ### [Georgia's Infrastructure Is On Our Mind](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/georgias-infrastructure-is-on-our-mind/) **Published:** January 8, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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small](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2014GARC-cover-small.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/2014GARC-cover-small.jpg)The *[2014 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure ](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/ "2014 Report Card")*will be released next Monday, January 13th, in the South Wing of the State Capitol on the very first day day of Georgia’s legislative session. Highlighting the infrastructure needs across the state, the Report Card will provide a new GPA for Georgia’s infrastructure as well as new grades for specific areas — Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Parks and Recreation, Ports (new), Rail (new), Roads, School Facilities, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Transit, and Wastewater. Check back [here ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/georgia/georgia-overview/)on the 13th to find out what grades Georgia earned in the [*2014 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure*](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/)! If you’re a supporter of Georgia’s infrastructure and in the Atlanta area, we invite you to join us for the Report Card release event: **WHAT:** News conference for the release of the *2014 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure* **WHO:** American Society of Civil Engineers, Georgia Section Speakers: Georgia State Representative Ed Setzler Kat Gurd, President of the Georgia Section of ASCE Daniel Agramonte, Co-Chair of Report Card Committee **WHEN:** Monday, January 13, 2014, 11:30 AM **WHERE:** [State Capitol South Wing](http://gba.georgia.gov/events-calendar) Georgia State Capitol Building 206 Washington St SW Atlanta, Georgia 30334 **WHY:** Infrastructure has a direct impact on our lives every day—from the water we drink, to the schools our children attend and to the roads and rails we travel. Infrastructure is vital to our economy, security, recreation and safety. Will Georgia’s infrastructure systems make the grade? 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testify")](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/)Georgia’s infrastructure has failed to improve over the last five years. In a new report, titled the [*2014 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure*](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/ "GA Report Card"), the Georgia Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) awarded the state’s infrastructure a “C,” a grade unchanged from their 2009 Report Card. The lowest grade awarded was a “D-”, which went to the state’s dams and transit systems. The *Report Card’s* highest grade, a “B,” was given to Georgia’s energy and rail systems. Georgia’s growing population combined with cutbacks in infrastructure funding resulted in many of the low grades. Specifically, the Report Card finds that Georgia is lagging in sustainable investment, including: - Georgia ranks 49th in the nation in per capita transportation funding. - Georgia is among the lowest in the country in transit spending per resident. According to the American Public Transportation Association’s 2010 Survey of State Funding for Public Transportation, Georgia spent just $0.63 per person in 2008. In comparison, New Jersey spent $119.52, Illinois spent $40.43, and North Carolina spent $7.94 per person in the same year. - Georgia’s Safe Dams Program has faced over a 50% cut in staff since 2003, with each safety official now expected to oversee over 1,000 dams, or five times the national average. - MARTA is the largest transit agency in the country to not receive state funding support for operations - Georgia’s state motor fuel excise tax—which funds surface transportation projects—is one of the lowest in the United States “From the Atlanta airport to the Port of Savannah, Georgia is a major player in the global economy” said Kat Gurd, President of the ASCE Georgia Section. “This Report Card shows that our connections to that economy are ailing, hurt too often by underfunding and increasing congestion. If we want to be the gateway to Southeastern commerce, we must deepen the Port of Savannah, increase our transportation funding, and modernize our infrastructure. ” State civil engineers awarded the state’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of “C”, based on 14 categories. A team of volunteer civil engineers assessed hundreds of public records over the course of the past year to complete the Report Card. Category grades included: bridges (C-), roads (C-), dams (D-), aviation (C+), drinking water (C+), energy (B), parks and recreation (D+), rail (B), ports (C+), schools (C+), stormwater (D+), transit (D-), wastewater (C+), and solid waste (C+). “One only needs to look at the Kia manufacturing plant in West Point to see how infrastructure can make a huge impact,” said Dan Agramonte, PE, Co-Chairman of the Infrastructure Report Card Committee. “Kia moved to Georgia to take advantage of the I-85 corridor. The new plant brought thousands of jobs to Georgia, and resulted in much, new business and auto suppliers moving to Georgia to leverage Kia’s new location. These businesses—and hundreds like them—are in Georgia because of our infrastructure, and now is the time to invest to make sure they stay and help us attract more like them.” The Georgia Report Card was created as a public service to the citizens and politicians of the state to inform them on the infrastructure needs in their community. By using school report card letter grades, civil engineers have used their expertise to condense complicated data into easy to understand analysis. State level report cards are modeled after the[ national *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of D+. ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) To view the full version of the *2014 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure* please visit [www.ascega.org](http://www.ascega.org). [![An overview of different sections of Georgia's report card.](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/reportcard34.jpg "House Energy & Commerce Committee Holds Infrastructure Hearings")](http://www.ascega.org/georgia-report-card/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Georgia%E2%80%99s%20C%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F01%2Freportcard44.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Georgia%E2%80%99s%20C%20Infrastructure "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Georgia%E2%80%99s%20C%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** dams, grades, infrastructure, report card, state, transit, transportation, water --- ### [Statement on President Obama’s State of the Union from the American Society of Civil Engineers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/statement-on-president-obamas-state-of-the-union-from-the-american-society-of-civil-engineers/) **Published:** January 28, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Over, P.E., president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding President Obama’s 5th State of the Union address this evening: “Tonight, President Obama reminded us all that ‘America does not stand still.’ Regrettably, for too long, the same cannot be said of America’s infrastructure. As the President spoke this evening on ways to boost our economy and create jobs, he urged Congress to move the Water Resources Reform and Development Act across the finish line and to pass a transportation bill this summer. We strongly agree that these pieces of legislation cannot wait. “For America’s roads and bridges, 2014 must become a ‘year of action.’ If we cannot find a solution for the impending insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund, state transportation departments will face huge cuts in capital funding by the end of this year and fall farther behind with a growing backlog of projects. “No one needs convincing that America’s infrastructure needs work. The American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave the nation’s infrastructure a “D+”. We found that unless new investments are made, the nation’s deteriorating surface transportation will cost the U.S. economy more than 876,000 jobs and suppress our GDP by $897 billion by 2020. Because, as the President said, ‘first-class jobs gravitate to first-class infrastructure.’ “Maintaining and modernizing our infrastructure is one of the essential roles of government. From Franklin Roosevelt to Ronald Reagan, building the networks that connect our families and businesses to one another has long been a bipartisan issue. Now more than ever is the year to commit to reliable, long-term funding source for our transportation system.” ##### *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Statement%20on%20President%20Obama%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20the%20Union%20from%20the%20American%20Society%20of%20Civil%20Engineers&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Statement%20on%20President%20Obama%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20the%20Union%20from%20the%20American%20Society%20of%20Civil%20Engineers "Share on 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Presses Congress to Act on Transportation Funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-governors-coalition-presses-congress-to-act-on-transportation-funding/) **Published:** January 31, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Bipartisan%20Governors%20Coalition%20Presses%20Congress%20to%20Act%20on%20Transportation%20Funding&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Bipartisan%20Governors%20Coalition%20Presses%20Congress%20to%20Act%20on%20Transportation%20Funding "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Bipartisan%20Governors%20Coalition%20Presses%20Congress%20to%20Act%20on%20Transportation%20Funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, [17 Governors signed a letter urging congressional members to act to find a long-term revenue solution for the Highway Trust Fund and avoid a potential nationwide transportation funding crisis](https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B6BkVs83eGGnRDh2S09Na0RKRUk/edit). The Highway Trust Fund, the funding mechanism that drives our nation’s investment in transportation infrastructure, is facing its fifth revenue shortfall since 2008. Motor fuel and truck excises supporting the Highway Trust Fund have not been adjusted in 20 years. As a result, the trust fund will be insolvent by the end of the year. “If Congress does not act to address this shortfall, we expect Federal support of highway and transit projects led by state transportation departments will cease in October,” said North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory. “Without renewed federal funding, states are left in a very serious financial crisis that impacts public safety and local economies,” McCrory added. Added Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber, “Investment in our transportation system is part of the backbone of a strong national economy. The Federal Government should do all it can to avoid the insolvency of the Federal Highway Trust fund. These dollars directly fund construction and maintenance projects, and provide needed construction jobs in states across the country.” On January 14, Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin (R-OK), testified before Congress in her capacity as Chairman of the National Governor’s Association and urged Congress to take action. “States need federal funding stability and certainty to pursue long-term planning and project delivery,” said Governor Fallin. “All funding options must be on the table for evaluation because existing resources are no longer adequate,” she added. The following 17 governors signed the letter urging congress to act: Governor Mike Beebe (D-AR), Governor John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Governor Neil Abercrombie (D-HI), Governor Patt Quinn (D-IL), Governor Martin O’Malley (D-MD), Governor Mark Dayton (DFL-MN), Governor Steve Bullock (D-MT), Governor Pat McCrory (R-NC), Governor Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Governor Jack Dalrymple (R-ND), Governor John Kitzhaber (D-OR), Governor Tom Corbett (R-PA), Governor Lincoln Chafee (D-RI), Governor Dennis Daugaard (R-SD), Governor Peter Shumlin (D-VT), Governor Jay Inslee (D-WA) and Governor Scott Walker (R-WI). ASCE is an active member of the National Transportation Coalition, a bipartisan group of governors and transportation advocates working together to push Congress to take immediate action on vital federal highway legislation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Bipartisan%20Governors%20Coalition%20Presses%20Congress%20to%20Act%20on%20Transportation%20Funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, Funding, governors, highway trust fund, leadership, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: What is the State of Our Union, Really?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-what-is-the-state-of-our-union-really/) **Published:** February 2, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20What%20is%20the%20State%20of%20Our%20Union%2C%20Really%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Super Bowl ([or the first mass-transit bowl as we like to call it](http://www.usatoday.com/videos/sports/nfl/2014/01/30/5048011/)) wasn’t the only required TV viewing this week . The State of the Union drew more than [33 million viewers](http://www.deadline.com/2014/01/fnc-leads-cable-news-as-sotu-viewing-choice/) listening to President Obama’s agenda for the country. Here at ASCE, we were pleased that President Obama laid out goals of “[rebuilding our roads, upgrading our ports, unclogging our commutes](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/29/us/politics/state-of-the-union-address-text.html?_r=3)” and [hope that Congress responds by finalizing WRRDA and passing a transportation bill.](http://blogs.asce.org/statement-on-president-obamas-state-of-the-union-from-the-american-society-of-civil-engineers/) ENR has an [excellent overview](http://enr.construction.com/policy/washington_observer/2014/0129-obama-urges-hill-action-on-infrastructure-bills.asp) of the response from the major players of infrastructure. Looking locally, the [*Detroit Free Press* chimed in](http://www.freep.com/article/20140129/NEWS06/301290141/7-initiatives-from-State-Union-could-impact-Michigan) with ways that a focus on infrastructure could help Michigan. Prior to his speech, our friend Rep. Blumenauer [authored](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rep-earl-blumenauer/the-crumbling-state-of-th_b_4673421.html) his thoughts Monday on how “If we do not act now to maintain and repair our infrastructure, we will face much higher costs in the future, not just for the country, but for families on a daily basis,” echoing ASCE’s concerns from our [Failure to Act studies](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). It seems infrastructure investment was on everyone’s lips this week. The call for investing in infrastructure is timely for many reasons: First: [![Capture](/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Capture-300x173.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/Capture.jpg) Beyond that, the [recent chemical contamination of West Virginia’s water ](http://www.npr.org/2014/01/29/268201454/how-industrial-chemical-regulation-failed-west-virginia) has led to a larger conversation about [water quality](http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/01/29/268386617/scientist-to-w-va-lawmakers-im-not-drinking-the-water) and the infrastructure that delivers it and [disposes of it](http://www.kjonline.com/news/Baby_wipes_cause_Maine_sewer_utilities_big__expensive_woes_.html). Also this week, there was also some talk of the [power grid’s vulnerabilities](http://theweek.com/article/index/255510/forget-hackers-squirrels-are-a-bigger-threat-to-americas-power-grid) (which received [a D+ in the 2013 ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/energy/overview)*[Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/energy/overview)).* Even MetLife Stadium is [taking precautions](http://www.nj.com/super-bowl/index.ssf/2014/01/super_bowl_2014_videos_woody_johnson_wants_snow_metlife_prepared_for_blackout.html) to ensure last year’s blackout is not repeated this Sunday. Finally, we are going to keep praying for all of our friends in Atlanta. Certainly this was a horrific situation, and [hopefully all of us can learn how to avoid such a thing in future](http://www.cnn.com/2014/01/30/us/atlanta-ice-how-it-happened/). So, what is the State of Our Union’s Infrastructure, really? I guess you could say we’re working on it. 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infrastructure](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/04/ray-lahood-gas-tax_n_4725270.html) received a lot of [attention](http://qz.com/173492/one-of-the-biggest-threats-to-americas-future-has-the-easiest-fix/#/h/44897,3/). But the [data](http://www.forconstructionpros.com/news/11305536/us-dot-projects-highway-trust-fund-shortfall-in-mid-august-2014) and [projections](http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43884-2014-02-Highway_Trust_Fund.pdf) of the Highway Trust Fund served as a call to action. In a [special report](http://thehill.com/special-reports/transportation-february-6-2014/197605-a-bill-that-bridges-the-partisan-divide) published by *The Hill*, ASCE Executive Director Pat Natale [explained the necessity of a long-term highway bill](http://thehill.com/special-reports/transportation-february-6-2014/197603-failure-to-pass-long-term-highway-bill-could). Sen. Warner [offered](http://thehill.com/special-reports/transportation-february-6-2014/197605-a-bill-that-bridges-the-partisan-divide#ixzz2sYVLLpoZ) further explanation of the BRIDGE Act, which, if passed, would “help states and localities access billions of additional dollars in private-sector capital that remains parked on the financial sidelines.” As we know, transportation infrastructure is not the only sector in need of funding and repairs. Mary Lyman explained “[robust infrastructure investment is absolutely critical](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-environment/197438-we-need-infrastructure-to-suit-the-energy-boom)” to ensure energy independence. A Senate subcommittee recognized the need for [greater regulation of water supplies](http://www.times-standard.com/statenews/ci_25059159/congress-wv-spill-reveals-inadequate-regulations), to combat events similar to those in [West Virginia](http://www.npr.org/2014/02/03/271128020/in-the-wake-of-spill-west-virginians-still-dont-trust-their-tap). [This *New York Times* piece](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/27/nyregion/inside-citys-water-tanks-layers-of-neglect.html?ref=health&_r=0) also offers an incentive to implement greater precautions based on experiences with New York City water tanks. Our Past President, Andrew Herrmann sat down with *Risk Management* *Magazine* to discuss the high cost of ignoring [America’s aging bridges](http://www.rmmagazine.com/2014/02/01/a-bridge-too-far-repairing-americas-aging-infrastructure/) (and all infrastructure). *The Washington Post* conducted an experiment in the most efficient way to commute, and concluded that currently [no one really wins](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2014/02/03/when-commuting-nobody-really-wins/). Gov. Scott Walker of Wisconsin announced a surplus budget. In response, James Bowen, a Madison, Wis. political blogger, suggested [investing in infrastructure](http://www.jsonline.com/blogs/purple-wisconsin/243979591.html) based on ASCE’s Wisconsin state facts. Action may not be easy, but as BlueGreen Alliance’s David Foster explains, it is certainly [beneficial](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/david-foster/putting-prosperity-within-reach_b_4702547.html), as it will bring “big [rewards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/bridges/success-stories).” Now let’s all get to work on making those “rewards” come true. 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The Riverbank Filtration Tunnel and Pump Station project at the B.E. Payne Treatment Plant was developed in Louisville to exceed new regulations that took effect in 2012 by the Safe Drinking Water Act. This new video explains how this innovative project works to harness nature to better serve their community. The project includes combining a gravity tunnel with wells as a source for drinking water, making the Louisville Water Company the first water utility in the world to do so. The project uses the Riverbank Filtration process—a “green supply” purification method using natural filtering of a riverbank to remove contaminants. By using a natural filtration process, the project saves the state money and will result in fewer water main issues. To learn more about the project, visit the project [profile](http://www.louisvilleky.gov/LWC/WaterQuality/RiverbankFiltration.htm "Riverbank Filtration") or this [article](http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20140211/NEWS01/302110051/Louisville-looks-expand-riverbank-filtration-clean-drinking-water-ward-off-major-spills?nclick_check=1 "Courier Journal"). If you’d like to know more about Kentucky’s infrastructure, [get a great summary of the issues here in their Infrastructure Report Card](http://www.kyasce.org/pdf/report%20card/combined%20report.pdf "KY Report Card"). 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Highway Trust Fund “[will have insufficient revenues to meet obligations](http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43884-2014-02-Highway_Trust_Fund.pdf)” unless a sustainable revenue source is found. Among those voicing concerns is [Tennessee](http://www.tennessean.com/article/20140209/NEWS0201/302090048/TDOT-nation-face-threat-federal-funding-cuts?nclick_check=1). As a precaution, TDOT prepared two 2015 budgets: one with federal funding, budgeting $1.8 billion and another without, budgeting $900 million. [Minnesota](http://www.beaumontenterprise.com/news/article/Minn-Democrats-to-unveil-transit-funding-plan-5222498.php) also grappled with the [transportation funding gap](http://finance-commerce.com/2014/02/road-to-nowhere-hearing-grapples-with-transportation-funding-gap/) through a hearing that included testimony from ASCE’s own Brian Pallasch, who [spoke on the consequences](http://www.kaaltv.com/article/stories/S3319032.shtml?cat=10151) of underinvestment. Delaware Gov. Markell proposed an increase to the gas tax that would be tied to inflation. Though it was met with criticism from the state legislature, this editorial aptly points out [highways don’t pay for themselves](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/02/13/tough-decisions-ahead-on-highway-projects/5466945/). Idaho’s Transportation Department’s Scott Stokes warned that the state relies heavily on federal funding for its department’s budget. Stokes predicted “[At current funding levels \[bridges\] will have to last 120 years, two to three times their expected life](http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2014/feb/10/future-fed-cuts-could-crim-idahos-transportation-budget/),” given the current funding trajectory. Michigan is facing a [more immediate funding crisis](http://www.mininggazette.com/page/content.detail/id/456120/Mich--official--Potholes-could-be-worse-than-ever.html?isap=1&nav=5014), due to the frequent snowfall. To put it into perspective, snowplows were needed on the southwest part of the state’s roads for 67 straight days, a doubly costly endeavor because money is needed to fund the plowing and to repair the roads afterward. *The Daily Iowan* called to raise the state’s gas tax in an [editorial](http://www.dailyiowan.com/2014/02/10/Opinions/36521.html), explaining the “tax would generate $230 million annually, money that can be used to substantially upgrade Iowa’s roadways and would close the state’s $215 million annual shortfall in road funds.” On the federal level, Ohio Reps. Tim Ryan and Dave Joyce, called upon their colleagues to [revitalize infrastructure](http://www.cleveland.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/five_things_we_agree_this_cong.html) and create jobs in the process. The U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee held a hearing Wednesday to consider the best funding options for the Highway Trust Fund. Sen. Boxer said her goal is to have a “[five- or six-year bill](http://www.northjersey.com/news/245236011_Raising_gas_tax_is_best_way_to_fund_US_highways__Donohue_says.html?c=y&page=1).” This week demonstrates the need for a sustainable funding source is gaining attention. Now the next step is finding a solution and taking action. 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States](http://direstates.com/ "Dire States: The Drive to Revive America's Ailing Infrastructure") tour, Dan McNichol made a stop at ASCE headquarters in his vintage Hudson today. Dan’s been on the road since last October sharing the message of America’s aging infrastructure. His 1949 Hudson (nicknamed Mrs. Martin after the original owner) is the perfect metaphor to get the message across. Structurally solid, yet with rust and fading green paint along the edges showcasing years of neglect, you understand that this car has outlived its useful life. It’s functionally obsolete like many of the bridges and roads it’s traveled upon. “The people in Detroit, they get it. They’ve seen the decline.” Dan shared stories of some of the memorable moments along the way with the ASCE staff that came out to meet him. He told us of a small town in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, struggling with a dam that was leaking, driving the water level seriously low. “The town took responsibility for that dam. They taxed themselves and raised the $10 million they needed for the repair.” During his tour, Dan spoke with officials of state departments of transportation, chambers of commerce and many college and university community members. He quoted statistics from ASCE’s [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ "Report Card for America's Infrastructure") to help inform his audiences. Dan was inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm of the students, and touched to hear the memories of the old-timers who reminisced about the glory days of America’s infrastructure. He felt strong support to rebuild our infrastructure from everyone he met. Dan’s story is a great way to help promote the impact of civil engineering in our communities. To learn more about the lessons Dan learned along the way, watch his interview below. It’s the first segment in our new 12-part video series, ASCE Interchange. Watch for a new episode each month — see them at [asce.org/interchange](http://www.asce.org/interchange). *ASCE Interchange is brought to you by **Contech Engineered Solutions**, a leading provider of site solutions for the civil engineering industry. Contech’s portfolio includes bridges, drainage erosion control, retaining wall, sanitary, stormwater and wastewater treatment products. For more info, visit [www.ContechES.com](http://www.ContechES.com "Contech Engineering Solutions") or call 800-338-1122* For more tips promoting the Report Card, view the online[ outreach toolkit](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/ASCE-Outreach-Toolkit/ "ASCE Report Card Outreach Toolkit"). Interested in doing more with the Report Card but want to speak with someone from the Infrastructure Initiatives team before you get started? Email [ASCE](mailto:reportcard@asce.org) or call 202-789-7850. Have you tapped into the collective memory in your community? Are there local events where you can help share the story of why we need to come together to restore our nation’s infrastructure? Is there a good symbol in your community you can build the story around? 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email")](mailto:?subject=Aging%20Hudson%20Symbolizes%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** ASCE Interchange, Dire States, infrastructure, Report Card for America's Infrastructure --- ### [Moving toward a safe, seamless transportation system](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/moving-toward-a-safe-seamless-transportation-system/) **Published:** February 19, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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National Transportation Practice at HNTB Corporation.* It’s time for America to get moving with needed investments in our infrastructure system. A [recent survey from HNTB Corporation](http://news.hntb.com/news-releases/moving-toward-a-modern-resilient-transportation-system.htm) shows Americans are looking for a new transportation vision and are ready to get behind leaders who have the courage to promote a workable plan paid by user fees. Yet many Americans also believe the issue is only pushed to the forefront after a structural failure (38 percent) or natural disaster (37 percent) has caused destruction. Unfortunately, it doesn’t stay in the news for long. We’ve often seen that played out in the media, whether it’s an emergency closure due to safety concerns, such as the original 80-year-old Lake Champlain Bridge connecting Crown Point, N.Y., and Chimney Point, Vt., in 2009; an accidental impact and resulting damage, such as the collapse of a portion of Interstate 5 over the Skagit River near Mount Vernon, Wash., last year; or the devastation wreaked by modern natural disasters, such as in the Northeast during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Such acute damage and resulting closures threaten communities’ safety and economic healthy, vividly reminding us of the importance of maintaining the nation’s infrastructure. ![Do you think construction of physical infrastructure in the U.S. is typically done? 31% Before a natural disaster to prevent damage - 69% After a natural disaster to repair damage](/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/AT_Mobility_graphics_105146-1024x614.jpg) In fact, nearly 2 in 3 (65 percent) Americans fear a local infrastructure failure will occur within a year, and 1 in 5 (20 percent) are “extremely concerned” about a potential failure. Perhaps more striking for those of us in the transportation industry, 9 in 10 think at least one mode of U.S. transportation needs a spark of innovation and nearly half (47 percent) believe physical infrastructure damage is more likely to be caused by lack of maintenance than age, faulty construction or even a natural disaster.portion of Interstate 5 over the Skagit River near Mount Vernon, Wash., last year; or the devastation wreaked by modern natural disasters, such as in the Northeast during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. Such acute damage and resulting closures threaten communities’ safety and economic healthy, vividly reminding us of the importance of maintaining the nation’s infrastructure. Most Americans want the nation’s transportation network and key infrastructure facilities to be improved, yet we’ve struggled to identify a compelling vision that will drive future state and federal investments and spur future growth. Clearly identifying the risks associated with inaction and underinvestment does resonate with the majority of the country. Perhaps another, more positive lynchpin for our vision of America’s transportation future is focusing on how we can make all of our transportation options work better as a system, or what we call multimodalism. Many Americans are unhappy with local transportation options because they don’t work together as well as they should. More than half (53 percent) think it’s difficult to access different modes of transportation. Better scheduling and seamless transferability would push drivers to leave their cars behind and hop aboard transit more often. Nearly 2 in 3 (63 percent) Americans think the modes of transportation in their area need to be more efficient. We need to get better at preparing for the future before our needs become acute. Envisioning a multimodal system where American’s transportation choices maintain safety and become seamless and sustainable can encourage the support we need to fund vital infrastructure priorities at the federal, state and local levels. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Moving%20toward%20a%20safe%2C%20seamless%20transportation%20system&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Winter Weather Gets People Thinking About the Cost of Underinvestment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-winter-weather-gets-people-thinking-about-the-cost-of-underinvestment/) **Published:** February 21, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Winter%20Weather%20Gets%20People%20Thinking%20About%20the%20Cost%20of%20Underinvestment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Perhaps between Disney’s box office hit Frozen and the [Sochi Olympics](http://www.sochi2014.com/en) you feel as though you’re living in a winter wonderland. Or perhaps it’s because you actually are, given this year’s [record snowfall](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capital-weather-gang/wp/2014/02/19/punishing-u-s-winter-has-pundits-pointing-fingers-forecasters-begging-for-mercy/) in cities across the country. In addition to the snow days and need for shovels and boots, this winter has done a number on roads across the country. Cities are [running out of salt](http://www.npr.org/2014/02/17/275899324/got-road-salt-cities-across-the-country-are-running-out-of-it), [pothole](http://www.wfsb.com/story/24749888/pothole-problems-plague-roads-ahead-of-storm)-dodging could be an Olympic sport, and finding places to mound all that snow is proving a [challenge](http://www.waow.com/story/24748342/2014/02/18/snow-removal-it-needs-to-go-somewhere). This all comes as state DOTs are already worried about funding as the Highway Trust Fund is on a path to [insolvency](http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/economy/report/2014/02/20/84314/understanding-the-highway-trust-fund-and-the-perils-of-inaction/). The weather’s impact doesn’t end with Americans’ commutes. The [electric grid](http://www.nationaljournal.com/policy/insiders/energy/how-safe-and-reliable-is-america-s-electric-grid-20140218) has also taken a hard hit, with tens of thousands [still without power](http://www.usatoday.com/story/weather/2014/02/18/thousands-still-without-power-south-carolina-georgia-ice-storm/5580887/) in Georgia and South Carolina. The cold weather has also ravaged pipes, including in Iowa, where there has been a [record number of water main breaks](http://www.myabc5.com/story/24731259/record-number-of-water-main-breaks) in the past six weeks. As all of these problems become more than the sum of their parts—especially true as infrastructure works as a system—this piece in a California paper asks if “[our nation can handle freaky weather](http://www.lompocrecord.com/news/opinion/editorial/preparing-for-a-very-long-winter/article_523ed626-953e-11e3-b397-0019bb2963f4.html?mode=print)?” Meanwhile, [West Virginia’s](http://www.seattlepi.com/news/science/article/W-Va-governor-State-of-emergency-to-end-soon-5245434.php) chemical spill last month continues to draw concerns about the [safety of drinking water](http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2014/02/140217-drinking-water-safety-west-virginia-chemical-spill-science/) across the country. The weather’s impact on infrastructure (and the media attention surrounding it) has certainly shown the need for funding and attention for our nation’s roads, electric grid, water pipes, and much more. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Winter%20Weather%20Gets%20People%20Thinking%20About%20the%20Cost%20of%20Underinvestment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, Electric Grid, highway trust fund, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Statement on President Obama's Proposed Transportation Plan from ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/statement-on-president-obamas-proposed-transportation-plan-from-asce/) **Published:** February 26, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): “President Obama’s proposed $302 billion transportation plan is an encouraging step forward in addressing the impending cliff our nation faces this year with the Highway Trust Fund. When the Highway Trust Fund becomes insolvent later this year, road and bridge projects will cease, payments will stop, and the shockwaves throughout our economy will be significant. “As if the President’s proposal weren’t momentum enough, we were also happy to see a transportation proposal from House Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp. Both the President’s proposal and Chairman Camp’s proposal offer a much-needed fix for the Highway Trust Fund. Ultimately, America’s transportation system needs long-term, sustainable revenue sources, but we are encouraged by this bi-partisan effort to identify funding before it is too late. For state DOTs, local governments, and transit agencies across the country, it’s difficult to plan a large-scale project if you don’t know how much funding there will be or if the project can even be completed. “The American Society of Civil Engineers supports an ‘all options on the table’ approach to funding the Highway Trust Fund. Any comprehensive transportation plan must be focused on modernizing our infrastructure network in order to build a 21st century economy. Failing to do this will hurt our economy and impact our competitiveness around the world. “It is our hope that the President and Congress will work together to make their solutions a reality, and we look forward to working with them on this critical issue.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Statement%20on%20President%20Obama%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Transportation%20Plan%20from%20ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Statement%20on%20President%20Obama%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Transportation%20Plan%20from%20ASCE "Share on 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level continue to seek transportation funding solutions. Already early in 2014, several state legislatures are considering proposals to increase revenue or dedicate more funds to transportation projects. While a proposal to increase **New Mexico**’s gas tax by 3-cents per gallon failed to pass before the legislature adjourned this week, several other proposals around the country are still very much alive. In **Delaware**, Gov. Jack Markell has proposed to raise the state gas tax by 10 cents per gallon, and the proposal also includes a provision that would automatically trigger future additional increases to keep pace with inflation. **Idaho** truckers are calling for an increase in the state’s gas tax to fund much needed road improvements. They have pitched the bill on grounds Idaho should get started on tackling an estimated annual $262 million backlog of road and bridge projects. The **Indiana** state department of transportation wants lawmakers to approve an early release of $400 million saved in a special trust fund created last year which they hope to spend on highway projects. Meanwhile, legislation to allow Marion County (Indianapolis) and six surrounding counties to ask voters to approve local tax increases to fund transit continues to move through the legislature. **Iowa** lawmakers have taken the first step to act on a proposal to incrementally increase the gas tax by a total of 10-cents per gallon over the next three years. The bill recently passed a House subcommittee and is likely to continue to receive serious consideration. In a new poll, more **Michigan** residents say they would rather see the state spend a nearly $1 billion budget surplus on roads than provide income tax relief as some lawmakers in Lansing want to do, The Detroit Free Press reported. Meanwhile, in remarks to a joint meeting of the House and Senate Appropriations committees this week, Gov. Rick Snyder, while recognizing the need for comprehensive transportation funding, recommended a one-time cash infusion from the general fund of $254 million in 2015 to shore up the state’s infrastructure. In **Minnesota**, local leaders are urging the legislature to act this year. A group of the state’s mayors and other city officials are call for state legislators to should invest in transportation this year because it is the key to economic competitiveness for all communities. More than 70 Minnesota counties have also adopted resolutions in support of a comprehensive transportation funding package in 2014. Proposals are pending in both the **Missouri** House and Senate that would implement a temporary 1-cent sales tax increase with the new revenues dedicated to transportation. And, in the past week in **Utah,** the state Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee voted unanimously to send legislation to the full Senate that would index the state gas tax to the per gallon price of gasoline. These efforts obviously show the emerging importance of infrastructure investment at the state level. As one can see, these efforts include both Blue and Red states, proving that investment is indeed a bipartisan issue. 2014 is a critical year for transportation funding, and we hope these state efforts continue the momentum toward modernizing our nation’s infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Legislatures%20Continue%20to%20Charge%20Ahead%20with%20Transportation%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Funding Conversations Get a Front Seat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-funding-conversations-get-a-front-seat/) **Published:** February 28, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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stories have been trickling out about the financial cliff the Highway Trust Fund is heading toward, with too few conversations about finding solutions, given the importance of the topic. This week that shifted. President Obama [called attention to the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2014-02-26/obama-seeking-300-billion-for-roads-railways) and the need for investment during a trip to Minnesota, by proposing a $302 billion transportation plan. During his speech, he stressed the link between transportation infrastructure and job creation. Furthermore, Rep. Dave Camp also announced his plan for a corporate tax overhaul, which would [dedicate $162.5 billion to the Highway Trust Fund over the next eight years](http://www.eenews.net/stories/1059995218). [ASCE](http://blogs.asce.org/statement-on-president-obamas-proposed-transportation-plan-from-asce/) and several [other infrastructure advocates](http://thehill.com/blogs/transportation-report/infrastructure/199434-advocates-encouraged-by-obama-camp-transportation) are encouraged by both proposals, and look forward to being part of the discussion. Rep. Bill Shuster, chair of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, was also “[encouraged](http://usa.streetsblog.org/2014/02/27/shuster-encouraged-by-obamas-transportation-funding-announcement/)” by both plans. As states, including [Alabama](http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20140227/NEWS/302270032/Bentley-s-road-program-get-second-mortgage-?nclick_check=1), [Rhode Island](http://www.valleybreeze.com/2014-02-25/pawtucket/dot-projects-hold-while-state-awaits-federal-action) and [North Dakota](http://www.prairiebizmag.com/event/article/id/17948/), continue to plan for a lack of federal dollars, it is essential to find a sustainable funding solution. Meanwhile in Wisconsin, a [bipartisan group in the state legislature](http://www.jsonline.com/news/opinion/toll-roads-could-be-the-answer-for-wisconsin-b99212476z1-246969081.html) began exploring the idea of [toll roads](http://host.madison.com/news/opinion/editorial/talk-of-toll-roads-encouraging/article_05d51d72-a05b-5c3c-83e2-9481d230bc8c.html). *The* *Washington Post* celebrated the other well-known form of funding’s 95th birthday with “[A (Very) Brief History of the State Gas Tax](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/govbeat/wp/2014/02/25/a-very-brief-history-of-the-state-gas-tax-on-its-95th-birthday/).” And in a similar spirit, the *National Journal* wrote about how Oregon, the state which originated the gas tax, now may be [the one to find its replacement](http://www.nationaljournal.com/magazine/oregon-test-drives-a-new-way-to-pay-for-roads-20140220). Discussions on funding are beginning to take center stage, an indication of progress in the quest to fund the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Funding%20Conversations%20Get%20a%20Front%20Seat&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, Toll Roads --- ### [New Report Estimates $200B Needed to Fix America’s Schools](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-estimates-200b-needed-to-fix-americas-schools/) **Published:** March 7, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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This report echoed the school facilities findings of the *2[013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/schools/overview "2013 Report Card")* and showed the estimated need to bring school facilities into good repair was almost $200 billion. The report also estimates that on average about $4.5 million will need to be spent per school needing repairs. While the needs are significant, the findings also highlighted some positive changes – 60% of the sampled schools reported to have long-range educational facilities plans and 39% of schools have major renovations and modernization work planned in the next two years. While the study represents only a sample of America’s schools, it is encouraging to see the U.S. Department of Education release this much needed data on America’s schools. [Read the new report here](http://nces.ed.gov/pubsearch/pubsinfo.asp?pubid=2014022 "Condition of America's Public School Facilities"). 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by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Report%20Estimates%20%24200B%20Needed%20to%20Fix%20America%E2%80%99s%20Schools&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Schools **Tags:** condition, infrastructure, school facilities, schools --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Investment Gets New Advocates](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-investment-gets-new-advocates/) **Published:** March 9, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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businessman all have in common? You may have thought this was a joke, but in fact it’s what happened this week in the news, as the call for infrastructure investment came from some unexpected spokespersons. Comedian Jim Gaffigan assessed Los Angeles’ infamous congestion problems while stuck in traffic at 10:30 on a Wednesday night. > “Maybe if we do nothing about the traffic problem it will go away?” – Los Angeles > > — Jim Gaffigan (@JimGaffigan) [March 6, 2014](https://twitter.com/JimGaffigan/statuses/441459832949067776) While Gaffigan’s tweet isn’t entirely accurate—[LA has been working to ease congestion](http://www.governing.com/topics/transportation-infrastructure/gov-inside-los-angeles-quest-to-fight-traffic-congestion.html)—everyone has experienced a frustrating traffic jam and pondered what could be done to fix it. Kip Moore, a rising country singer, [joined](http://www.forconstructionpros.com/press_release/11322855/case-partners-with-country-star-kip-moore) with CASE Construction Equipment to [promote infrastructure investment](http://www.betterroads.com/kip-moore-ceca/), particularly in underserved communities. The president of C&J Bus Lines, a private professional motor coach company located in New Hampshire, [advocated for an increase in the gas tax](http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20140302-OPINION-403020329), as the state legislature considers it. The op-ed received praise from another resident, [who agreed that the need for maintenance was worth the cost](http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20140306-OPINION-403060366). Bill Chameides, blogger on Huffington Post and dean of Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment, also made compelling arguments, pointing out that “[while Americans seem ever eager to get the latest iPhone … we seem behind the curve when it comes to basic upkeep](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bill-chameides/us-transportation-driving_b_4905792.html)” of our nation’s infrastructure. The piece then moves on to discuss the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.dot.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker) and the search for a reliable funding mechanism, an issue also explored [ in an interview on Boston NPR](http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2014/03/03/crumbling-transportation-infrastructure). Furthering the case on the need for investment, the U.S. Department of Transportation [released a report](http://www.dot.gov/briefing-room/new-department-transportation-report-highway-transit-conditions-points-need-more) last Friday assessing aging infrastructure, and urging spending to fund improvements. In a *Wall Street Journal* [article about the report](http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304071004579411530955347204?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702304071004579411530955347204.html), ASCE’s Casey Dinges echoed the report’s findings, stating “Just the status quo is not going to work” when it comes to funding. As the [discussion for funding the Highway Trust Fund continues](http://www.nationaljournal.com/policy/insiders/transportation/302-billion-can-we-get-there-20140303), it’s nice to see a wide range of advocates for the cause. 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Here a few of the top level findings of the report: - In 2012, the nation’s 401 parks attracted more than 280 million visitors. - National parks generated more than $26 billion in economic activity in 2012; visitors spend on hotels, convenience stores, outfitters and other businesses - Secondary effects, like employees spending money at local businesses, brought in an additional $15.4 billion - Every $1 from Congress results in $10 of economic activity - Estimates now reach $11 billion for the nation’s parks maintenance backlog - Of the 50 states, California’s parks brought in the most visitor spending – $1.5 billion [Read the full report here](http://www.nature.nps.gov/socialscience/docs%5CNPSVSE2012_final_nrss.pdf). 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As the fund continues to decline, the DOT will be slowing its funding programs, limiting the funding dollars states rely upon to help pay for projects though matching dollars. This week Arkansas announced [10 projects will not move forward](http://www.arkansasmatters.com/story/d/story/ahtd-pulls-10-projects-over-highway-trust-fund-wor/39628/ZDWFobEO-UixlUPSz9GJHA) in anticipation that the federal matching funds won’t be available, and G[eorgia shared similar concerns.](http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/6/article/96804/) The financial cliff the Highway Trust Fund is moving toward won’t just impact roads and bridges. Despite what the name might suggest, it also funds mass transit, which [Americans are frequenting more](http://www.star-telegram.com/2014/03/10/5635010/americans-riding-public-transit.html?rh=1) than in the past few years, according to research the American Public Transportation Association shared this week. Finding the funding to fix the Trust Fund is obviously at the crux of the debate. In a Colorado paper, the editorial board reminds readers “[there is a cost to letting our highways turn to rust and dust](http://www.reporterherald.com/opinion/editorial/ci_25315652/editorial-americas-infrastructure-deficit)” and that communal investment in infrastructure is better than the alternative, which is individual investment in vehicle maintenance and the cost of time spent in traffic. After the winter we’ve seen, vehicle maintenance is certainly a concern because [potholes](http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2014/03/tim_skubick_when_you_hit_a_gia.html) have been problematic enough that Michigan (a particularly hard-hit state, but likely not alone in this) predicts the [process to fill them will last until June](http://www.wzzm13.com/story/news/local/2014/03/12/potholes-by-the-numbers/6342985/). New Jersey is even considering a [raise in the gas tax](http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/economy/potholes-push-gas-tax-increase-in-nj) specifically to fund pothole repairs. If [Congress](http://theweek.com/article/index/257851/no-congress-is-not-done-for-the-year) was looking for a metaphor for the current state of the Highway Trust Fund, or yet another reason to act, then [stories like these](http://www.myfoxdc.com/story/24953206/huge-pothole-causes-delays-on-interstate-270) lend themselves nicely. Similarly, the [tragic explosion in New York](http://www.forbes.com/sites/brighammccown/2014/03/12/tragic-explosion-in-new-york-highlights-needs-for-infrastructure-improvements/) highlighted the need for investment, just days after a [report estimated the city needs $43.7 billion](http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article/20140311/ECONOMY/140319969/citys-infrastructure-repair-pegged-at-47b) to bring the quality of its infrastructure to a respectable level. *Rolling Stone* is even advocating for infrastructure investment, as it lists [crumbling water pipes and roads](http://m.rollingstone.com/politics/news/six-ways-america-is-like-a-third-world-country-20140305) as one reason America is like a third-world country, echoing [Joe Biden’s remarks](http://m.rollingstone.com/politics/news/six-ways-america-is-like-a-third-world-country-20140305) last month. As the Highway Trust Fund’s numbers continue going in the wrong direction, at least the [awareness of the issue](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/steven-fulop/hate-your-commute-read-th_b_4941839.html) increases. Hopefully, getting attention is the first step in fixing the Trust Fund. 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No Problem. Make Your Voice Heard.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/not-in-d-c-no-problem-make-your-voice-heard/) **Published:** March 18, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Not%20in%20D.C.%20No%20Problem.%20Make%20Your%20Voice%20Heard.&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Not%20in%20D.C.%20No%20Problem.%20Make%20Your%20Voice%20Heard. 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Not%20in%20D.C.%20No%20Problem.%20Make%20Your%20Voice%20Heard.&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Can’t travel to Washington for the ASCE’s Annual Legislative Fly-In this week? You can still participate through the Fly-In @ Home. Here are some great ways you can interact with Members of Congress in from your state: - Attend a town hall or other local events with elected officials. Visit your representative’s website or check local newspapers for announcements. - Schedule a Back Home Visit with your lawmaker. Members of Congress will be in their home states and districts March 17-21. Call their District or Washington office today to set up a time to meet with them and [see our tips on effective Back Home Visits](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/). [](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/) - Organize your own legislative day in your state capitol. - Write your legislators through the [Click and Connect with Congres](http://capwiz.com/asce/home/%20)s on our top issue of transportation authorization and funding. Influencing elected officials and increasing investment in infrastructure starts at the local level! Identify infrastructure success stories in your community as well as current needs and communicate them to your elected officials who make decisions impacting investment at the state and federal levels. Only by uniting our voices can we make an impact. Good luck. 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Not%20in%20D.C.%20No%20Problem.%20Make%20Your%20Voice%20Heard.&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [DOT Secretary Foxx Calls for New, Long-term Thinking on Infrastructure Investment at ASCE Legislative Fly-In](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dot-secretary-foxx-calls-for-new-long-term-thinking-on-infrastructure-investment-at-asce-legislative-fly-in/) **Published:** March 19, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Today, Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx spoke in front of over 200 civil engineers outside of Washington, D.C. Secretary Foxx spent his time urging ASCE members to tell their Members of Congress about America’s infrastructure needs and how the impending insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund will hurt our nation’s economy and global competitiveness. Secretary Foxx thanked the civil engineers for their work, saying “you are the ones that do the work in helping America’s infrastructure.” As part of ASCE’s ongoing efforts to advocate for sustainable, long-term infrastructure investment, the ASCE Legislative Fly-in allows civil engineers from across to country to come together and make their voice heard in Congress. Of note, the Secretary focused his time explaining the consequences of America’s infrastructure deficit. The Secretary mentioned that “there is massive uncertainty…about how we’re going to meet the growing needs of our country.” As ASCE members know all too well, this uncertainty hurts our ability to plan in the long-term and fix our pressing infrastructure needs. To conclude his remarks, the Secretary said that projects are already being put on hold due to the dwindling Highway Trust Fund. He argued that Congress must get off of its “extension addiction,” and create a long-term solution to boost our economy and leave future generations a better country. As ASCE members head to Capitol Hill, we are excited to have the Secretary as an ally in advocating for a long-term, sustainable solution to closing America’s infrastructure deficit. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=DOT%20Secretary%20Foxx%20Calls%20for%20New%2C%20Long-term%20Thinking%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20at%20ASCE%20Legislative%20Fly-In&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Anthony Foxx, highway trust fund, infrastructure --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: One Year Anniversary of the Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-one-year-anniversary-of-the-report-card/) **Published:** March 21, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20One%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")One year ago this week, we released our 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. Our nation’s D+ infrastructure grade is an important piece of data to share as we advocate for infrastructure investment, especially as the United States approaches the Highway Trust Fund’s financial cliff later this year. Over the past year, ASCE and the [Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) have had more than 16,000 media mentions, a majority of which discuss the findings of the Report Card, including the grades of 16 infrastructure sectors covered in the Report Card and the $3.6 trillion investment needed by 2020. We are proud that nearly every day the hard work of our Report Card Committee members earns the attention of the media and the public. To celebrate a successful year of coverage and meaningful conversations here is a compilation of a few of our favorite media mentions. [Daily Rundown](http://www.msnbc.com/the-daily-rundown/new-report-card-gives-america%E2%80%99s) [Colbert Report ](http://www.colbertnation.com/the-colbert-report-videos/425692/april-22-2013/tiny-triumphs---infrastructure---river-pollution) [Washington Post](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2013/03/19/good-news-americas-infrastructure-is-now-5-percent-less-shoddy/) [Huffington Post live ](http://live.huffingtonpost.com/r/segment/america-gets-d-on-infrastructure-report-card/5142232f2b8c2a4401000128) [New York Times ](http://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/19/us/engineers-report-small-gains-in-nations-infrastructure.html?_r=2&) [NPR ](http://www.npr.org/2013/03/19/174767342/upgrading-americas-failing-infrastructure-could-cost-1-6-trillion) [Fast Company ](http://www.fastcodesign.com/3027671/dear-america-please-fix-your-crappy-infrastructure?partner=rss) 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20One%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, infrastructure report card --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: The High Cost of Insufficient Funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-the-high-cost-of-insufficient-funding/) **Published:** March 28, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[TRIP](http://www.tripnet.org/) issued a report on the condition of North Carolina’s roads, bridges and traffic conditions. The bottom line: [traffic is bad](http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/03/25/4792701/charlotte-drivers-spent-40-hours.html#.UzLoas5bMu0) and the [poor condition of roads costly](http://wfdd.org/post/north-carolina-motorists-bear-cost-deficient-roadways). [ As the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* shows us](http://www.starnewsonline.com/article/20140326/articles/140329690), this TRIP report, along with one [released this week in Minnesota](http://www.startribune.com/local/blogs/252479051.html), is a microcosm of the state of our nation’s roads, bridges and infrastructure as a whole. While former Secretary of Transportation [Ray LaHood predicts a short-term extension of MAP-21](http://www.nationaljournal.com/policy/insiders/transportation/lahood-predicts-short-term-extension-of-transportation-law-20140324), states are making other plans as the [Highway Trust Fund’s money dwindles](http://www.forconstructionpros.com/news/11359333/highway-trust-fund-figures-show-earlier-shortfall). For example, in Nebraska, [a bill allowing bond financing for road projects](http://www.yankton.net/news/state_ap_ne/article_990c80b2-4bcc-53e8-94c5-912b20afeee9.html) pushed through a filibuster to advance the bill. A [Rhode Islander considered an infrastructure bank](http://www.golocalprov.com/business/gary-sasse-can-a-state-infrastructure-bank-help-rebuild-ri/) as a way to provide funding. Similarly, Secretary of the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, Mike Hancock, wrote “[the real issue is not whether drivers want to pay tolls; it’s whether drivers want to keep paying the price of lost time, lost productivity and daily highway hazards with the corridor as it is](http://www.cincinnati.com/story/opinion/contributors/2014/03/24/opinion-price-time-lost-traffic/6855773/),” as explanation for why Kentucky and Ohio need new funding tools and a fix for the Trust Fund. Pleads to fix the Trust Fund did not end there. A south [Florida mayor visited Washington to ask for funding](http://www.cbs12.com/news/top-stories/stories/vid_14361.shtml). The Georgia DOT prepared motorists for a continued bumpy ride because of the [lack of funding to repair the Dawsonville Highway bridge](http://www.gainesvilletimes.com/section/6/article/97296/) and the state’s Chamber [urged congressional action in response](http://www.peachpundit.com/2014/03/25/eorgia-chamber-urges-congressional-action-on-transportation-issues/), [along with 30 other states’ Chambers of Commerce.](http://www.betterroads.com/31-state-chambers-push-for-5-year-transportation-bill/) The National Lieutenant Governors Association [also asked Congress to take action in a unanimous](http://www.bigislandvideonews.com/2014/03/26/lt-gov-tsutsui-takes-national-transportation-funding-crisis/), bipartisan resolution. And [even members of the Canadian government are asking Congress for highway funding](http://www.ktoo.org/2014/03/24/alaska-highway-money-easy-sell-congress/). A California columnist noted “[Sadly, America’s crumbling infrastructure is like the weather: Everyone complains, but nobody does anything about it](http://www.sacbee.com/2014/03/25/6245233/bruce-maiman-priorities-are-not.html#storylink=cpy).” Here’s hoping the states above get what they asked for and that sentiment doesn’t ring true much longer. There’s [no free ride on infrastructure](http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20140323_There_s_no_free_ride_on_infrastructure.html). The North Carolina and Minnesota TRIP reports prove it, as does everyone’s unique but shared experience of traffic during a commute. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20The%20High%20Cost%20of%20Insufficient%20Funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, MAP-21, TRIP --- ### [New Report Card for Illinois' Infrastructure Shows Progress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-card-for-illinois-infrastructure-shows-progress/) **Published:** April 2, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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RC](/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/Cover-2014-IL-RC.jpg "A Record-Breaking Thanksgiving")](http://www.isasce.org/index.php/report-card/ "2014 IL Report Card")The *[2014 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure](http://www.isasce.org/index.php/report-card/ "2014 IL Report Card")* was released today by the Illinois Sections of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) at the Illinois Statehouse. A panel of professional civil engineers throughout the state graded each infrastructure category according to the following eight criteria: capacity, condition, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, resilience, and innovation.. In 2010, the infrastructure grade for Illinois was a D+, reflecting delayed maintenance and underinvestment across most categories. In the *[2014 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure](http://www.isasce.org/index.php/report-card/ "2014 IL Report Card"),* the state’s infrastructure G.P.A. jumped to a C- showing the progress made with leadership and solid infrastructure programs. Over the past four years since the *2010 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure*, leaders at the state level and in Illinois’ cities—large and small—have started to make some steps to rebuild their aging infrastructure. Programs such as CREATE have started unclogging rail and traffic bottlenecks and the *Illinois Jobs Now!* effort by the state provided $31B to start fixing Illinois’ biggest infrastructure problems. These efforts have paid off and both the Rail and Drinking Water grades have gone up since the last Report Card. Plans like Chicago’s commitment to replace and repair aging water pipes shows how “thinking big” can create even bigger results. But while some of the grades have gone up, Illinois’ infrastructure isn’t a B student yet. Aging infrastructure and delayed maintenance have taken their toll. Illinois’s average bridge is 40 years old which is close to retirement age for a bridge, Chicago has been replacing water pipes put in when Ulysses Grant was President, and more and more people and goods spend time stuck in traffic on Illinois’ roads and rails. **Let’s Raise the Grades** Illinois’s infrastructure touches almost every aspect of citizens’ daily life—from your neighborhood roads, to your phone, to the community school, to the new south suburban airport. In 2014, we need to be visionary but realistic about our infrastructure. We need to continue replace our oldest infrastructure but also begin to think of our infrastructure as an entire system in need of sustainable funding. We have to make collaborative and smart decisions, while assuring that safety remains our top priority. We can continue to tackle Illinois’ infrastructure needs by asking our leaders to take on these 3 Key Solutions that would help and raise Illinois’s grades: **1. State and local governments should work together to create smart, efficient transportation systems that meet the changing needs of Illinois’s communities. We cannot just repair the investments of the past, but we need to build systems for a 21st century Illinois.** **2. Create sustainable funding to maintain all new and planned investments in Illinois’s water systems. Simply replacing old pipes with limited or no plans for operation and maintenance will only lead to similar problems for future generations.** **3. Invest in networks that will lessen the costs of doing business in Illinois, including inland waterways, rail, and airports. As the economy continues to expand, Illinois needs world-class infrastructure to compete with other states for new businesses and manufacturing.** Read the full *[2014 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure here.](http://www.isasce.org/index.php/report-card/ "2014 IL Report Card")* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** Illinois, infrastructure, report card, solutions, transit, transportation, vision, water --- ### [Half of States Have a Gas Tax Policy That's a Decade Old](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/half-of-states-have-a-gas-tax-policy-thats-a-decade-old/) **Published:** April 3, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Economic Policy (ITEP) released a new chart this week clearly showing how long it’s been since many states have changed their gas tax policy. In about half the states, it has been a decade or more since they’ve changed their gas tax policy in spite of the changing costs for materials, machines, or projects overall. While a minor policy like indexing or switching to a “variable-rate” tax may seem small, consider what we all learned from the hit movie [Office Space ](http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Office_Space "Office Space")– even a fraction of a penny can add up to a lot over time. If we’re going to keep up with America’s growth, we need to start counting our pennies a bit differently. [![States Gas Tax Increases](/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/yearssinceincrease.jpg "Legislation Advocates for Resilient Re-Building")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/yearssinceincrease.jpg) Here’s a few of the other key findings from this chart: • Twenty-four states have gone a decade or more without an increase in their gas tax rate. • Sixteen states have gone two decades or more without a gas tax increase. • Seven states have not seen an increase in their gas tax rate since the 1980’s or earlier: Alaska, Virginia, Oklahoma, Iowa, Mississippi, South Carolina, and Tennessee. • Among the thirty-two states levying a “fixed-rate” gas tax, the average length of time since the last gas tax increase is 17.2 years. • Most states levying a more sustainable “variable-rate” gas tax, by contrast, have seen their gas tax rate rise some time in the last twelve months [Read the full ITEP report here.](http://www.itep.org/pdf/gastaxincreases0414.pdf "ITEP ") 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email")](mailto:?subject=Half%20of%20States%20Have%20a%20Gas%20Tax%20Policy%20That%E2%80%99s%20a%20Decade%20Old&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, policy, state, tax, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Continued Cause to Fix the Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-continued-cause-to-fix-the-trust-fund/) **Published:** April 4, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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the worst in recent memory, thanks to the particularly harsh winter. The [freezing, thawing, plowing and salting](http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/03/31/3420895/potholes-infrastructure-winter/) certainly did not help the D grade roads received in the 2013 *Report Card*. In the hard-hit Midwestern states, the hope of [filled-in potholes](http://www.crookstontimes.com/article/20140331/NEWS/140339962/10059/NEWS) and [more funding for roads](http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20140330/BLOG200/303309962/other-voices-road-funding-plan-needs-fixing) is a daily conversation. This harsh winter was not just frustrating for drivers, it was also untimely as the Highway Trust Fund continues to run out of money, [with one estimate now as early as July 1](http://globegazette.com/mcpress/news/local/supervisor-fudge-on-owis-to-keep-young-adults-here/article_fe518d32-687f-535d-83db-e1a4840bd716.html). One blogger referred to it as a “[triple layer cake of crisis](http://my.firedoglake.com/brucemcf/2014/03/30/sunday-train-our-trebly-broken-highway-funding-system/).” And while referencing cake may seem to sugarcoat it, he certainly did not as he outlined the trebly broken system. Nor did Deputy Secretary of Vermont Department of Transportation Sue Minter, [who testified in Congress](http://bignews.biz/?id=1341122&keys=TRANSPORTATION-FUNDING-RUNNING-OUT) this week on the [impact the impending shortfall would have on states](http://digital.vpr.net/post/lack-funding-could-halt-state-highway-projects). The *New York Times* presented the [view of prominent companies](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/04/us/agreement-on-interstate-repair-needs-but-not-on-how-to-pay-for-them.html?_r=0) that see the value in more road funding, and prefer an increased gas tax to tolls. A Huffington Post blogger also called on Congress to act on the Highway Trust Fund focusing on its [impact on mass transit riders](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/-william-lynch-iii/protect-our-mass-transit_b_5070600.html?utm_hp_ref=new-york&ir=New+York). As Minter said, state DOTs are being put in a precarious position, exemplified in the search for funding for the [Brent Spence Bridge](http://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/politics/2014/03/30/congress-ride-rescue-brent-spence-bridge/7099509/) that connects Ohio and Kentucky. This bridge is a vital link between two communities, and leads to a larger discussion about [bridge safety across the country](http://www.bizjournals.com/sanantonio/blog/2014/04/bridge-safety-report-hits-home-for-san-antonians.html), as one in nine of our nation’s bridges are structurally deficient. If you’re interested in learning more about the Highway Trust Fund’s funding concerns, AASHTO put together an [excellent resource](http://fleetowner.com/fleet-management/aashto-releases-tool-help-decipher-highway-trust-fund-funding-concerns), “[Nations at a Crossroads](https://invest.transportation.org/),” and you can find [a list of valuable data sources here](http://www.betterroads.com/educate-yourself-and-your-elected-officials/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Continued%20Cause%20to%20Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, Mass Transit, Potholes --- ### [Congress Looks to Learn Lessons from Canada’s P3 Experience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-looks-to-learn-lessons-from-canadas-p3-experience/) **Published:** April 10, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure Committee looked to our northern neighbor Canada for advice on the federal role for public-private partnerships (P3) holding a panel hearing on the *International Experience with Public-Private Partnerships*, chaired by U.S. Rep. John Duncan (R-TN). Experts from the Canadian financing market were brought in to share their perspective on how their 200+ P3 projects have gone and what they consider to be the best practices of their federal and state framework. Kicking off the discussion, however, was Rep. John Delaney (MD-06) who is sponsoring a bipartisan bill that is gaining support –[ The Partnership to Build America Act (H.R. 2084) ](http://delaney.house.gov/information-on-congressman-delaneys-infrastructure-bill)relating directly to P3s. The Partnership to Build America Act would create an infrastructure fund using repatriated corporate earnings and then utilize financing tools like public-private partnerships. The bill has gained the support of 60 House co-sponsors (30 Republicans and 30 Democrats) in the House and a companion, bipartisan Senate bill by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Roy Blunt (R-MO). If this were passed, it’s estimated that at least 25% of the projects financed with the new fund would use a P3 model. The panel of expert witnesses had many suggestions for what made the Canadian model successful for structuring P3s. However, it was Dr. Larry Blain, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Partnerships British Columbia, who suggested the following four benefits of performance-based infrastructure that should inform the U.S. structure: 1. **Planning discipline and preparation**. Performance-based infrastructure projects require comprehensive and long-term definition, costing and risk assessment. Many pitfalls are avoided before a shovel hits the ground. 2. **Certainty**. Projects are on or under budget, and on or ahead of schedule, and key risks are assumed by the private partners. This is a key benefit of performance-based, financially-motivated contracting. 3. **Life-cycle asset management**. In a performance-based approach the private partners have to maintain and rehabilitate the asset over 15-30 years, and they have to leave the asset in the required condition or face financial penalties. 4. **Efficiencies and innovation**. Competition and the profit motive can lead to startling results, where the winning proposal provides solutions that the public owner never contemplated. Mr. David Morley, Vice President, Business and Government Strategy, Infrastructure Ontario, also described how their organization’s **procedural transparency** would also benefit the P3 structure and could be a 5th element to add to this list. Finally, Mr. Cherian George, Managing Director, Global Infrastructure and Project Finance, Fitch Ratings, and Dr. Matti Siemiatycki, Associate Professor, Geography and Program in Planning, University of Toronto, argued for prioritizing **risk allocation** that balances the needs of both the public interest and the private investors. Perhaps with these six ideas, the Committee may be more able to find the same balance that has made Canada a leader in the P3 arena. [Watch the full hearing and find the full written testimony of the panel here. ](http://transport.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=374815) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20Looks%20to%20Learn%20Lessons%20from%20Canada%E2%80%99s%20P3%20Experience&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20Looks%20to%20Learn%20Lessons%20from%20Canada%E2%80%99s%20P3%20Experience "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Looks%20to%20Learn%20Lessons%20from%20Canada%E2%80%99s%20P3%20Experience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Canada, congress, Delaney, hearing, House, infrastructure, P3, public-private partnership --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Reasons to Keep Advocating for Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-reasons-to-keep-advocating-for-investment/) **Published:** April 11, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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New York Times* presented a series of reasons “[We Should Be in a Rage](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/04/10/opinion/blow-we-should-be-in-a-rage.html?src=twr&_r=0)” and among them were—you guessed it—because of the state of our nation’s infrastructure. These grievances, along with suggestions and productive dialogue to change it, appeared in print across the country this week. In Mississippi, one writer named [legislators’ neglect](http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20140410/OPINION/304100002/Legislators-neglect-impairs-state-s-highway-system?nclick_check=1) as the reason for low grades, and given that the state legislature once again [passed on increasing the state gas tax](http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20140409/COL1008/304090036/States-explore-options-road-bridge-repair-funding?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Home|p), the frustration is understandable. For, as the [Mayor of San Diego](http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/apr/10/mayor-faulconer-infrastructure-budget/) [demonstrated](http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/apr/10/mayor-faulconer-infrastructure-budget/), improving infrastructure takes time and money. [Infrastructure provides a better quality of life](http://innovationtrail.org/post/quality-life-infrastructure-investment-key-urban-renewal), and as the decision-makers continue to appreciate its significance, [new ideas](http://www.saukvalley.com/2014/04/09/mayor-emanuel-promotes-new-infrastructure-thinking/a7tuup8/) for [funding are being implemented](http://enr.construction.com/infrastructure/transportation/2014/0414-penndot-pushes-on-with-p3-plan-to-replace-614-bridges.asp). The desire to have [long-term plans](http://www.cdispatch.com/opinions/article.asp?aid=32478) is also a promising development, especially as it could help combat the issues many states—including [Oregon](http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/04/7_reasons_why_oregon_transport.html) and [Wisconsin](http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2014/apr/9/transportation-department-faces-shrinking-revenue/)—are currently facing. The watershed law Pennsylvania enacted last fall is proving the [value of a strong transportation bill](http://www.delcotimes.com/opinion/20140407/editorial-harrisburg-gets-one-right-on-transportation-bill). Such legislation is unfortunately still often only discussed and debated and not enacted, including this week in [Illinois](http://www.myjournalcourier.com/news/editorial-home_top-opinion/919899/Our-view:-Infrastructure) and [Indiana](http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/editorial/editorial-invest-in-infrastructure-starting-in-nwi/article_76c97ce0-ff42-5974-965f-4b14dc9cf058.html). New transportation legislation is also currently just a goal at the federal level. However, on Thursday Sen. Boxer and fellow senators [announced](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=34677&t=Senators-Pledge-Support-for-Long-Term-Highway-Bill-Focus-on-Freight) the Environment and Public Works Committee’s commitment to a [six-year bill](http://blogs.rollcall.com/wgdb/boxer-and-vitter-have-a-tentative-deal-on-the-next-highway-bill/?dcz=) to replace MAP-21, the current law authorizing the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/highwaytrustfund/). While only the start of a long process, this at least means state DOTs can rest a little easier, and continue with transportation projects and the [jobs that come with them](http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-04-10/how-congress-will-keep-america-employed-road-work.html). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Reasons%20to%20Keep%20Advocating%20for%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, MAP-21, P3 --- ### [Statement from The American Society of Civil Engineers Urging Immediate Congressional Action to Avert Highway Trust Fund Insolvency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/statement-from-the-american-society-of-civil-engineers-urging-immediate-congressional-action-to-avert-highway-trust-fund-insolvency/) **Published:** April 16, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Statement%20from%20The%20American%20Society%20of%20Civil%20Engineers%20Urging%20Immediate%20Congressional%20Action%20to%20Avert%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Insolvency&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Reston, Va.** – The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/) (ASCE) regarding [the U.S. Department of Transportation’s report](http://www.dot.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker) issued yesterday on the future of the Highway Trust Fund: “The report issued this week by the U.S. Department of Transportation outlines an ominous picture for the Highway Trust Fund and is not good news for America. “We’re at a critical crossroad. Projections indicating that the Highway Trust Fund will now become insolvent by the end of August, underscore ASCE’s sense of urgency that Congress must act now to find long-term sustainable funding for the nation’s transportation system. “ASCE’s economic reports have found that our deteriorating transportation infrastructure will cost the American economy more than 876,000 jobs and suppress the growth of our GDP by $897 billion by the year 2020. Furthermore, the nation’s surface transportation systems are facing a funding gap of about $94 billion a year with our current spending levels. “As more and more states are forced to put crucial transportation projects on hold due to the uncertainty of federal funds, the nation’s surface transportation will continue to deteriorate, causing a negative ripple effect throughout our economy. Roads and bridges won’t be maintained, businesses will suffer and jobs will be lost. “ASCE urges Congress to take immediate action to identify long-term revenue solutions for the Highway Trust Fund to avert this impending crisis.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. ASCE’s [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), graded America’s cumulative GPA for infrastructure at a D+. The Report Card app for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2013-report-card-for-americas/id603625735?ls=1&mt=8) and [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ASCE.ASCEInfrastructureReportCard2013) devices includes videos, interactive maps and info-graphics that tell the story behind the grades, as well as key facts for all 50 states. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/) and follow us on Twitter, @[ASCETweets](https://twitter.com/ascetweets) and @[ASCEGovRel](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Gets%20Media%20Attention&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Gets%20Media%20Attention "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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But this week Wednesday, the search query garnered nine pages of hits, and the option to “explore in depth” 166 articles. What did these articles say? And why does it matter? Well, the articles report what those following closely already knew: [Congress is giving states the transportation blues](http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=303379451). Less reported, while [perhaps more newsworthy](http://www.forbes.com/sites/beltway/2014/04/14/congress-fiddles-while-bridges-crumble/) for the people who specifically seek out the Highway Trust Fund in the news, the [USDOT announced its latest projections](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2014/04/15/usdot-highway-fund-almost-too-low-to-pay-bills/?tid=hpModule_308f7142-9199-11e2-bdea-e32ad90da239) on when the money will run short, currently [predicted as the end of July](http://www.dot.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker). This latest warning comes as Transportation Secretary Foxx bus tours across eight states, raising awareness of what he refers to as “[clearly a crisis](http://time.com/64461/us-highway-trust-fund-broke/).” Several states progressed with transportation project legislation this week including [Connecticut](http://www.courant.com/news/connecticut/hc-i-84-funding-0416-20140415,0,1900356.story), [Massachusetts](http://boston.cbslocal.com/2014/04/15/billions-approved-for-massachusetts-transportation/) and [Virginia](http://www.wvec.com/news/Six-year-transportation-plan-for-Virginia-released-today-255456341.html), but without reliable funding for the Highway Trust Fund, it’s unclear how realistic these proposals are. Many cities are [considering public-private partnerships (P3s) as an alternative](http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-rt-us-usa-infrastructure-publicprivate-20140414,0,7034299.story). As the president emeritus of Harvard wrote this week “[now is the time](http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2014/04/11/idle-workers-low-interest-rates-time-rebuild-infrastructure/UIYHNLdzN0frz0VMVkTS1K/story.html)” to find the funding and rebuild our nation’s infrastructure. A great first step to do that is to fix the Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Gets%20Media%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, P3 --- ### [Highway Trust Fund 101: What You Need to Know](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/highway-trust-fund-101-what-you-need-to-know/) **Published:** April 24, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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exponential negative consequences for our economy. What? When? Why? Find out how it can be fixed and what you can do to help. **What is the Highway Trust Fund?** The Highway Trust Fund is how Congress provides federal funding for transportation projects. It was created in 1956 to build the Interstate Highway System and now provides funding for roads, bridges, and transit projects across America. The Fund is paid for by the federal motor fuels taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel. Historically, federal highway funding has accounted for approximately 45 percent of what state DOTs spend on highway and bridge capital improvements. **Why Does the Federal Government Pay for Roads, Bridges, and Transit?** The U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause ([Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3](http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/articlei#section8)) grants Congress the power to establish “post roads” and to regulate commerce “among the several states,” allowing the federal government to invest and maintain roads, bridges, and transit. These constitutional responsibilities formed the basis for the U.S. government to play a significant role in our nation’s transportation and infrastructure system. Outside of U.S. law, Adam Smith–seminal economist and often cited as the ‘father of modern economics”–cited infrastructure investment as one to the “three duties” in his famous “The Wealth of Nations”: *“…the duty of erecting and maintaining certain public works and certain public institutions, which it can never be for the interest of any individual, or small number of individuals, to erect and maintain; because the profit would never repay the expense to any individual or small number of individuals, though it may frequently do much more than repay it to a great society.”* **What is the Gas Tax?** The first federal gas tax was established in 1932 (1 cent/gallon). The gas tax was tied to the Highway Trust Fund in 1956 via The Highway Revue Act and the creation of the Interstate Highway System. The federal gas tax has been raised a number of times since, including by Presidents Reagan, George H.W. Bush, and Clinton. The last time the U.S. federal gas tax was raised was 1993 to 18.4 cents per gallon. It was not been raised in over twenty years. **How is the Fund Doing?** The U.S. Department of Transportation projects that the Highway Account of the Highway Trust Fund will run out of money for new projects as early as July. For the 10 year window, 2015-2024, the cumulative shortfall in the highway and mass transit accounts of the HTF will be over $170 billion. According to the Congressional Budget Office, to prevent insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund in 2015, federal surface transportation investment would have to be cut by 92 percent that year. **Why is the Highway Trust Fund Quickly Becoming Insolvent?** The Fund is paid for by the federal gas tax. The gas tax has not been raised in over twenty years. Many items have doubled or tripled their cost since 1993. For example, a new car cost $12,750 in 1993, yet in 2013 a new car cost $31,252. The easiest explanation is that we are trying to build a 2014 infrastructure system with 1993 dollars. This is obviously an untenable formula. **How Does the Insolvency Affect Me?** Almost half of capital investments made by states on our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems are supported by the federal highway and transit programs administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Already, infrastructure projects are being [slowed ](http://krqe.com/2014/04/22/road-projects-in-jeopardy-when-federal-fund-runs-dry/)or [stopped ](http://www.wksu.org/news/story/38944)because of the uncertainty surrounding the Highway Trust Fund. Any delay in reimbursement from FHWA will prevent states from being able to pay contractors in a timely manner. Contractors who rely on prompt payment from the state won’t be able to pay their employees and suppliers. Disruptions to this process have the potential to send unwelcome shockwaves throughout our economy, decreasing spending, hiring, and damaging any ability to plan for future projects. **We Knew this Was Coming, Right?** Oh yes. As far back as 1997, Congress was moving money from the General Fund into the Highway Trust Fund. Recently, in 2008, Congress moved $34.5 billion to the trust fund from the general fund to keep it solvent. **So Why Haven’t We Fixed it Before Now?** One word: Politics. In order to make the Trust Fund solvent, Congress would need to find a long-term, sustainable solution. Because of how the Fund is currently structured, [according to commentators such as Matt Yglesias](http://www.slate.com/articles/business/moneybox/2013/12/blumenauer_gasoline_tax_hike_oregon_congressman_wants_higher_fuel_taxes.html), the easiest way to do that would be to raise the gas tax to a modern rate and tie the rate to inflation. This would raise needed revenue and assure that future insolvencies would not occur. Obviously, given the climate of fiscal restraint as well as the escalating cost of gasoline over the last twenty years, raising the gas tax has been politically impalpable. And, since any solution outside of raising the gas tax would have to involve dramatically restricting the funding mechanism of the Trust Fund, such proposals have been unable to move forward. **What Can I Do?** We have to tell Congress to act now. We are [using #FixTheTrustFund across all of our social media platforms](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel) to spread our message the letting the Trust Fund become insolvent is unacceptable. We have also set up a [Legislative Action Center](http://capwiz.com/asce/issues/alert/?alertid=63189696), where you can send you Congressman a message about how the Highway Trust Fund is going to affect you. Good luck and let’s #FixTheTrustFund [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20101%3A%20What%20You%20Need%20to%20Know&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20101%3A%20What%20You%20Need%20to%20Know "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20101%3A%20What%20You%20Need%20to%20Know&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Constitution, gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: If not now, when?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-if-not-now-when/) **Published:** April 25, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Highways Committee Chairman Rep. David Campbell, D-Nashua, \[New Hampshire,\] said. “If not 4.2 cents, what amount? If not today, when?”](http://www.unionleader.com/article/20140423/NEWS06/140429619) With those words of encouragement and a vote, New Hampshire’s legislative branch sent a bill to Gov. Maggie Hassan raising the Gas Tax by 4.2 cents. The governor has said she would sign the bill. Rep. Campbell’s words are ones that apply not only in New Hampshire, but across the country. Finding funding, [making the decision to invest,](http://www.telegram.com/article/20140423/LETTERS/304239992/1055/newsrewind) is a slow going process, but the Highway Trust Fund’s clock is ticking. Michigan [Governor Rick Snyder also applauded “constructive” strides](http://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/Gov-Snyder-Calls-House-Road-Funding-Plan-Constructive/22622/) this week in road funding legislation for his state. States taking positive steps is promising, but without a sustainable funding mechanism for the Highway Trust Fund, will it be enough? The [Tennessee DOT commissioner warned](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/2014/04/23/tdot-chief-warns-shrinking-federal-funds/8062413/) this week that the shrinking federal funds will significantly hurt the state’s transportation. In addition to concerns, there were also suggested solutions. One came from U.S. Sen. Carper of Delaware, who [discussed his proposal to ensure the Highway Trust Fund keeps up with current and future needs](http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20140422/NEWS35/304220038/Raise-gas-tax-to-bolster-highway-fund-key-Del-lawmaker-says?odyssey=tab|mostpopular|text|DW&nclick_check=1), by raising the tax gas and eventually tying it to inflation. Rep. Bill Shuster, while not outlining a plan, also [discussed the importance of fixing the Highway Trust Fund](http://triblive.com/neighborhoods/yourmonvalley/yourmonvalleymore/5995834-74/transportation-shuster-progress#axzz2zoQbfkGa) at an event in his home state of Pennsylvania. Interested in a few more reasons that it’s time to [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fixthetrustfund&src=typd)? [Gaebler.com](http://www.gaebler.com/News/Small-Business-Finance/Highway-Trust-Fund-Insolvency-May-Impact-Economic-Recovery-900000608.htm), [The Atlantic Cities](http://www.theatlanticcities.com/commute/2014/04/key-saving-nations-transportation-program/8928/) and [Bloomberg](http://www.bloombergview.com/articles/2014-04-23/u-s-on-highway-to-flunking-out) all offer excellent viewpoints on the topic. As ASCE President Randy Over said “[We’re at a critical crossroads](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/04/24/nations-bridges-need-work/8091313/).” So if not now, when? 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Washington, D.C.** —The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., president of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on the GROW AMERICA Act: “We need bold leadership at all levels of government if we are going to solve America’s infrastructure deficit, and today’s four-year draft bill from the U.S. Department of Transportation appears to be a positive step. We welcome efforts to create more robust infrastructure investments that move our country away from simply maintaining the funding and investments of the past. We also applaud the continued streamlining of project approval processes so we can deliver projects on time and on budget, and improved project financing. “The title of the draft bill could not be more appropriate – maintaining and modernizing our nation’s infrastructure enables thriving interstate commerce, job creation, and will quite literally ‘GROW’ America. “Inaction or continued short-term solutions will continue to cost American families and businesses. When our roads prevent trucks from getting from Point A to Point B to deliver goods, our nation suffers. When our ports can’t keep pace with the realities of international commerce, our nation falls behind. Deficient roads, bridges, and ports hurt our GDP, our ability to create jobs, our disposable income, and our competitiveness with other nations. ASCE estimates that deficient and unreliable surface transportation will cost each American family $1,090 a year in personal disposable income by the year 2020. “Any reauthorization of MAP-21 must be focused on modernizing our transportation infrastructure network in order to build a 21st century economy. The American Society of Civil Engineers, representing more than 145,000 civil engineers, believes the authorization should focus on three goals for surface transportation: expanding infrastructure investment and finding sustainable revenue solutions for the Highway Trust Fund; continuing the meaningful reforms started in MAP-21; and positioning our nation to build strategically for the future. “ASCE is disappointed that long term sustainable revenue sources for the Fund were not identified, and we urge Congress to take immediate action to identify long-term revenue solutions for the Highway Trust Fund to avert this impending insolvency crisis. “We look forward to a more thorough review of the proposal, and it is our hope that the Administration and Congress will work together to advance the policy and the funding needed to keep our transportation system working for our economy.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* \##### [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D= "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Due?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/how-much-would-you-owe-if-everyones-infrastructure-bill-came-due/) **Published:** April 29, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=How%20Much%20Would%20You%20Owe%20If%20Everyone%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Came%20Due%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F04%2FBloomberg.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=How%20Much%20Would%20You%20Owe%20If%20Everyone%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Came%20Due%3F "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=How%20Much%20Would%20You%20Owe%20If%20Everyone%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Came%20Due%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[Bloomberg took the opportunity to calculate your infrastructure bill for you based on where you live. See what you would owe for roads, safe drinking water, and airport infrastructure if every one in every state had to pay their bill today.](http://media.bloomberg.com/bb/avfile/rOFW60DH17VU) [![Bloomberg](/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bloomberg.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Bloomberg.jpg) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=How%20Much%20Would%20You%20Owe%20If%20Everyone%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20Came%20Due%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** aviation, bill, infrastructure, rank, roads, water --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: White House offers bill to GROW AMERICA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-white-house-offers-bill-to-grow-america/) **Published:** May 2, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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session](http://www.rollcall.com/news/hawkings_as_congress_returns_for_9_week_slog_5_areas_are_ripe_for-232441-1.html), but it was not a member of the legislative branch who introduced legislation to fund transportation projects. Instead, the U.S. DOT and President Obama followed up on a promise from earlier this year to propose a [$302 billion transportation budget](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america), titled GROW AMERICA (which stands for Generating Renewal, Opportunity, and Work with Accelerated Mobility, Efficiency, and Rebuilding of Infrastructure and Communities throughout America). Don’t worry, you won’t be tested on the anagram at the end of this post. However, despite a step toward a possible funding option for the Highway Trust Fund, to guarantee it doesn’t become insolvent during the height of summer road construction, [*Time* suspects you didn’t even hear about it.](http://time.com/83073/barack-obama-transportation-republicans/) There was some coverage, but it was not splashed across the top of news websites, nor did it get a breaking news app push notification or email (at least not from any I use. If yours did let me know and I will gladly convert). Most notable to the news media was the [administration’s proposed shift in current law regarding tolls on interstate freeways](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/5-things-to-know-about-highway-tolling/2014/04/30/97987b6a-d075-11e3-b812-0c92213941f4_story.html). It is an [alternative to raising the gas tax](http://www.ktrh.com/articles/houston-news-121300/interstate-tolls-12306631) that [will offer additional revenue](http://www.bondbuyer.com/issues/123_82/obama-highway-bill-oks-interstate-tolls-1061994-1.html), though the law makes it an option for states, rather than a federal mandate. So could the GROW Act be the answer to preventing [Washington’s next cliff](http://www.politico.com/story/2014/04/highway-trust-fund-infrastructure-106217.html)? Or will [Congress put a pothole in its path](http://blogs.post-gazette.com/news/the-roundabout/41326-will-congress-put-a-pothole-in-the-path-to-better-transportation) to better transportation? Several states, [including Iowa](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2014/04/30/road-construction-projects-face-federal-fiscal-cliff/8499339/) and [Utah](http://www.heraldextra.com/news/state-and-regional/utah/highway-trust-fund-shortage-could-cost-utah-m/article_b2b737dc-93cf-5fad-8b38-b6cbc8d3a3fc.html), continue to fear the Highway Trust Fund’s insolvency. And a [Nevada paper urged that the country needs a plan](http://www.rgj.com/story/opinion/editorials/2014/05/01/editorial-funding-plan-needed-fix-infrastructure/8537543/). Both [Rep. Dina Titus](http://www.rollcall.com/news/its_time_for_smart_growth_and_planning_commentary-232580-1.html?pos=lopilr) and [Rep. Bill Shuster](http://www.rollcall.com/news/americas_transportation_system_is_foundation_of_american_competitiveness-232528-1.html) wrote in *Roll Call* this week about the importance of maintaining our infrastructure. It is time to transform these words into actions to #FixtheTrustFund. 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It's Infrastructure Week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-best-thing-about-next-week-its-infrastructure-week/) **Published:** May 6, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FASCE_Reportcard_AppIcon-transparent.png&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FASCE_Reportcard_AppIcon-transparent.png&description=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/ASCE_Reportcard_AppIcon-transparent.png "FullReport-MN2")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/ASCE_Reportcard_AppIcon-transparent.png)Indeed, May 12 to 16th is officially Infrastructure Week. It’s a week built for talking about trains, planes, and automobiles and all the ways they get from point A to point B. [If you’re in or around D.C., Infrastructure Week is already packed with events to collaborate and learn from industry leaders, and, of course, to raise the question – what’s next for infrastructure in the U.S.? ](http://www.infrastructureweek2014.com/infrastructure-week-2014-homepage/calendar/ "Infrastructure Week Calendar") [If you’re elsewhere, check out the webinars and livestreamed events and feel free to join the Twitter traffic with #RebuildRenew.](http://www.infrastructureweek2014.com/infrastructure-week-2014-homepage/calendar/ "Infrastructure Week Calendar") Yes, some might say it’s a bit wonky, but most people haven’t taken ten seconds to imagine their life without infrastructure. So, in honor of Infrastructure Week, let’s consider our lives if we erased the seamless, connected, and capable infrastructure systems we take advantage of every day: - If there was no road or transit, you’d be walking almost everywhere…. Yes, you…walking….everywhere. - If there were no pipes, you’d be trekking your water bucket to the nearest well or river. The “watering hole” would no longer be your local sports bar. - If there wasn’t electricity, let’s just say 99% of American entertainment vanishes, and please don’t mention the cringe-worthy threat of a summer without air conditioning. - If there weren’t airports, that international vacation you’ve been planning all year is going to take all your vacation days just to get there. It wouldn’t hurt us to take a big step back and remind ourselves how infrastructure makes our lives possible. [We even have an infographic here at ASCE that does just that. ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#e/how-we-use-infrastructure "How We Use Infrastructure Graphic")Wherever you are next week, we hope you’ll take a second to [share on our Facebook page ](https://www.facebook.com/SaveUSAInfrastructure "Save America's Infrastructure Facebook")how the infrastructure in your community is working for you, or could use some TLC. **Where to Find Us During Infrastructure Week** Want to know more about[ Infrastructure Week 2014? Find out more here.](http://www.infrastructureweek2014.com "Infrastructure Week 2014") We’re tweeting up an infrastructure storm [@ascegovrel ](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel "Twitter")and following the conversation with #RebuildRenew Want to keep up to speed on infrastructure issues? [ Sign up here to get updates.](http://message.asce.org/2013-Report-Card-Signup "Infrastructure Friends") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FASCE_Reportcard_AppIcon-transparent.png&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Best%20Thing%20About%20Next%20Week%3F%20It%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #RebuildRenew, infrastructure, Infrastructure Week, leaders, social --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Finding Funding for the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-finding-funding-for-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** May 9, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Finding%20Funding%20for%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Senate Finance Committee held a hearing this week on [“new routes for funding and financing highways and transit.](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/205319-cbo-highway-bill-requires-18b-per-year-or-15-cent-gas-tax-hike#ixzz30xAN3TCT)” This effort included warnings from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) that $13 to $18 billion will be needed each year to maintain the current funding levels the Highway Trust Fund provides. [Sen. Boxer (D-CA) responded with a promise to have her bill out next week](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/205327-boxer-promises-highway-bill-next-week). As elected officials continue to explore options and offer solutions, including a proposed change to the [TIGER Grant program](http://usa.streetsblog.org/2014/05/07/gop-appropriations-bill-would-turn-tiger-into-a-roads-program/), [warnings continue](http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2014/05/03/transportation-projects-across-state-could-halted-congress-fails-act/NuxwZCw7lphNZVSk0iDjtO/story.html) of[ what is at stake](http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/05/06/3434486/sp-infrastructure/). (Spoiler alert: [it’s a lot](http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2014/05/07/Warning-Bumpy-Road-Ahead-Highway-Drivers).) This issue [affects all Americans](http://indiancountrytodaymedianetwork.com/2014/05/07/road-happiness-starts-better-roads) and [it’s a ‘toll’](http://blog.al.com/spotnews/2014/05/traffic_mike_may_1.html) we’re all paying for in [one way or another](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). So how exactly did we get here? [Vox has an explanation in six charts.](http://www.vox.com/2014/5/6/5683822/the-us-highway-funding-crisis-in-six-charts) This week also saw some discussion on raising the gas tax (from the media, not so much from politicians) including [CNBC](http://www.cnbc.com/id/101652280), [CNN Money](http://money.cnn.com/2014/05/05/news/economy/gas-tax-highway-funding-shortfall/) and [Al Jazeera America](http://america.aljazeera.com/watch/shows/inside-story/articles/2014/5/5/how-can-the-u-s-reviveitscrumblinginfrastructure.html). *The Washington Post* offers a great explanation of how [inflation, not efficiency](http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/inflation-not-efficiency-is-eroding-the-highway-trust-fund/2014/05/05/b27dda92-d228-11e3-a714-be7e7f142085_story.html), has led us to this [transportation funding cliff](http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2014/05/08/highway-trust-fund-is-running-on-fumes/). And the discussion of [tolls as a funding mechanism](http://www.theatlanticcities.com/commute/2014/05/how-tolls-could-help-prevent-us-transportation-crisis/9051/) continued from last week, an option that may be [more appealing to Congress during an election year](http://www.click2houston.com/news/money/Should-you-pay-a-higher-gas-tax/25811632). Discussion is vital, but we need continued leadership and action to secure a reliable funding mechanism. As states, including [Oregon](http://www.oregonlive.com/commuting/index.ssf/2014/05/rew_study_shows_5_reasons_why.html), brace for transportation projects without federal funding dollars from the Highway Trust Fund it is time to [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23fixthetrustfund). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Finding%20Funding%20for%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, roads, TIGER Grants --- ### [ASCE Statement on the Senate EPW Committee’s Proposed Transportation Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-senate-epw-committees-proposed-transportation-bill/) **Published:** May 14, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")**Washington, D.C.** —The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., President of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on [the bipartisan Senate Environment & Public Works Committee’s newly proposed MAP-21 Reauthorization legislation](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Majority.PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=7e3bffa4-bf37-5a0c-a56c-71bb81bf0ddf&Region_id=&Issue_id=): “The proposed MAP-21 reauthorization legislation from Chairman Boxer and Senator Vitter is yet another positive step to improve our economy and raise the grades on the nation’s surface transportation infrastructure. While the proposed long-term bill is encouraging, whether or not it becomes law rests entirely in the hands of Congress. Senators Boxer and Vitter know that American families and businesses need a long-term transportation bill to provide the certainty they are looking for. The question remains whether Congress will assure economic certainty, or discard this new proposal for a short-term bill that will only hurt our ability to plan for the future. “[Senator Boxer’s proposal continues a lot of the positive work we saw under MAP-21](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Files.View&FileStore_id=1e3c777c-8d48-49f0-b9b6-2e725470a1bb). We must continue to increase project flexibility and accelerate projects for delivery. The more efficient and effective we can be, the greater the opportunity for raising our nation’s infrastructure grades. Likewise, we must continue to focus on how we can increase movement of goods by modernizing the investments of the past for a new economy. “ASCE has been saying for months that we must fix this problem immediately with a long-term, sustainable revenue solution in order to keep America competitive. “Regrettably, while the bill may reflect political realities, it does not go far enough in addressing [our country’s investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/grade-sheet/americas-infrastructure-investment-needs). By maintaining our current funding levels, we are maintaining[ America’s D+ infrastructure grades](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). ASCE’s *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* shows that our nation needs a renewed investment strategy for a new century. “We applaud the leadership exhibited by Senators Boxer and Vitter to start the discussion to solve this problem. Now the question becomes: how are we going to pay for it? ASCE supports an all options on the table approach to addressing the insolvency crisis with the Highway Trust Fund. Our challenges are too vast and the costs are too great for us to continue with the status-quo. America’s economy cannot afford for the Highway Trust Fund to become insolvent—now is the time for action.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* \##### [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20EPW%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Transportation%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20EPW%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Transportation%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20EPW%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, senate, surface transportation --- ### [Infrastructure Week: Share with Your Elected Officials](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-week-share-with-your-elected-officials/) **Published:** May 14, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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And also officially National Transportation Week, as designated by [Presidential proclamation](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/05/09/presidential-proclamation-national-defense-transportation-day-and-nation "The White House"). So what are you doing to celebrate? Planning your next visit with your elected officials would be a good start. ASCE has lots of [resources for members and infrastructure advocates](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/ "Back Home Visits") to use when planning a visit to discuss infrastructure issues with your elected officials. ASCE members should be sure to check out the recording of our [Key Contact Briefing Call](http://www.asce.org/ContentMemberOnly.aspx?id=25769808852 "Key Contact Briefing Call") with Rep. David McKinley (R-WV), F.ASCE. On the call, Rep. McKinley shares what he values when speaking with constituents. (You will need your ASCE member login to access this page. Scroll down to “Previous Calls”.) Even if you’re not an ASCE member, check out ways you can get involved in advocating for infrastructure through our [“Take Action”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/ "Take Action") page. Many members of Congress are active on social media, so get involved in discussions on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel "ASCE Government Relations"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/SaveUSAInfrastructure?fref=ts "Save America's Infrastructure Facebook") and other outlets to draw attention to infrastructure concerns in your local area. To find out which members of Congress are making the most of social media to connect with their constituents, check out the Congressional Management Foundation’s recent [Gold Mouse Awards](http://www.congressfoundation.org/news/blog/1063-113th-congress-gold-mouse-awards-for-citizen-engagement-on-social-media "CMF Gold Mouse Awards"). Use the hashtag #RebuildRenew to join the discussion. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20Senate%20Conference%20Report%20on%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Washington, D.C.** — The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) regarding the conference report on the Water Resources Reform and Development Act by the U.S. Senate: “Today’s release of the conference report on the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) represents a major victory in providing the necessary funding to modernize the nation’s ports, inland waterways, dams and levees. The bill promotes economic growth and job creation through policies that strengthen U.S. infrastructure, allowing the United States to remain competitive in the 21st century. “ASCE’s [2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded the nation’s ports a C, inland waterways a D-, dams a D, and levees a D-. Our nation’s water resources are critical to our economy, our infrastructure, public safety, and the preservation and enhancement of our environmental resources. In fact, [ASCE’s Failure to Act economic study on the nation’s marine ports and inland waterways ](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Failure-to-Act/Airports,-Inland-Waterways,-and-Marine-Ports/)shows that underinvesting in just these two sectors threatens more than one million U.S. jobs and $270 billion in U.S. exports by 2020. “WRRDA will drastically reduce the time it takes for project approvals by consolidating or eliminating duplicative studies, allowing concurrent reviews, and streamlining environmental reviews. The significant reforms in the law are not at the expense of environmental quality and will allow for a stronger, safer national water resources infrastructure. In addition, ASCE applauds the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, the strengthening of the Levee Safety Initiative, and the efforts to put the trust back into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund so that our nation’s ports can remain competitive on a global level. “ASCE is pleased that Congress has collaborated on a final conference report on WRRDA to invest in America’s future. This decisive action will ensure that our nation’s ports, waterways, dams and levees receive much-needed funding. We look forward to the final vote next week and the legislation being signed into law by the president.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society.* \### [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20Senate%20Conference%20Report%20on%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, dams, infrastructure, levees, ports, water, wrrda --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Infrastructure Week Delivers on its Name](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-infrastructure-week-delivers-on-its-name/) **Published:** May 16, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Week](http://www.infrastructureweek2014.com/) lived up to its name! In addition to the events marking the occasion and furthering the conversation on emerging solutions, innovative approaches and best practices, [President Obama](http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/obama-to-call-for-spending-to-improve-nations-roads-and-rails/2014/05/14/17cfa310-db77-11e3-bda1-9b46b2066796_story.html?tid=hpModule_ba0d4c2a-86a2-11e2-9d71-f0feafdd1394), Vice President Biden, Secretary of Transportation Foxx and Congress all spoke over the past few days on the need for investment. On Wednesday, [President Obama](http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2014/05/14/obama-to-gop-tear-down-this-bridge-and-pay-for-a-new-one/) took his message to the Tappan Zee Bridge, a major thruway for New Yorkers, [highlighting his plan to get projects moving faster while remaining on budget](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/05/14/remarks-president-building-21st-century-infrastructure). Meanwhile, in Cleveland against the backdrop of a rail car repair shop, Vice President Biden [shared a similar plea](http://www.timesunion.com/news/article/In-Cleveland-Biden-urges-infrastructure-spending-5478133.php), citing the *Infrastructure Report Card’s* estimate [that the U.S. needs to invest $3.6 trillion by 2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) to get our nation’s infrastructure GPA up to a B. Secretary Foxx also warned of the perils of inaction regarding the Highway Trust Fund, saying “[We cannot meet the needs of a growing country and a growing economy by simply maintaining our current level of effort.](https://enr.construction.com/yb/enr/article.aspx?story_id=id:aK18xL9qKFs5LA0ttBN0Fbo_qeT6zhefVFHfiaSNNSOrrZ8bE_ftAddF46Ek4a_8rGNAzukDX51X1i0-LI0Zrg%2A%2A)” The remarks from the administration did not fall on deaf ears, as Chairman Boxer and Sen. Vitter released a [bipartisan bill to authorize six years](http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/sns-wp-blm-news-bc-senate-highway12-20140512,0,3584929.story) of highway and transit programs on Monday that [passed out of the Environment & Public Works Committee on Thursday](http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702304547704579563850969366242?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702304547704579563850969366242.html). [Could infrastructure be the new political buzzword?](http://www.marketplace.org/topics/economy/why-infrastructure-may-be-new-political-buzzword) Or [will congressional gridlock derail it](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/the-nations-infrastructure-another-victim-of-congressional-gridlock/)? Hopefully the trend continues into action, as [failure to act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) comes at a [high cost of its own](http://live.wsj.com/video/grading-the-safety-of-america-bridges/85B0CB05-0D5C-4BFD-BB8C-16DC172EE01D.html#!85B0CB05-0D5C-4BFD-BB8C-16DC172EE01D), including a [loss of as many as 700,000 jobs](http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2014/05/14/700000-Jobs-Risk-If-Highway-Trust-Fund-Falters). As *The Baltimore Sun* points out, a short-term bailout “[defeats the purpose of the trust fund](http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bs-ed-transportation-20140513,0,6741211.story).” It is time for a reliable funding mechanism that will pave the way to a Highway Trust Fund [equipped with 2014 dollars, rather than 1993 ones](http://blogs.asce.org/highway-trust-fund-101-what-you-need-to-know/). The Highway Trust Fund and transportation-based infrastructure, however, were not the only sectors getting attention during Infrastructure Week. The [details of WRRDA](http://transportation.house.gov/wrrda/conference.htm) were [agreed upon](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/206253-lawmakers-file-conference-report-on-82b-water-bill-agreement) and the bill will be sent to the President for his signature next week. Secretary Foxx also honored the [Champions of Change in Transportation](http://www.dot.gov/fastlane/champions-change-transportation-are-building-ladders-opportunity), reminding us that improving infrastructure, fixing the Highway Trust Fund and passing legislation like WRRDA is ultimately about helping people. These [11 individuals](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/05/12/white-house-honors-champions-change-transportation) each offer innovative solutions to improve transportation in their communities and exemplify the great work that can help improve citizens’ lives through transportation projects. Hope you all had a great Infrastructure Week, too! 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Florida Weighs In](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/what-happens-to-states-when-the-highway-trust-fund-runs-dry-florida-weighs-in/) **Published:** May 18, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FHTF-DOT-image.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FHTF-DOT-image.jpg&description=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Depletion of the Federal Highway Trust Fund- What Could it Mean for Florida?** ***An Exclusive Interview with FDOT State Secretary Prasad by Steve Lubinski, PE, CWI, LEED-AP*** Miami-Dade ASCE conducted an exclusive interview on May 6, 2014 with Florida’s Secretary of Transportation and head of FDOT, Ananth Prasad. The Federal Highway Trust Fund (funded by the Federal Gas Tax) provides 30% of Florida Department of Transportation’s funding, but the fund is in danger of becoming insolvent in 3 months or less according to the Congressional Budget Office estimates. Capitol Hill gridlock could make insolvency a reality if they don’t act (as shown in the chart below from USDOT).**[![HTF DOT image](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/HTF-DOT-image.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/HTF-DOT-image.jpg)** **MD-ASCE: Miami-Dade ASCE thanks you for this opportunity. Can you discuss the magnitude of the problem with the Federal Highway Trust Fund?** AP: As you know it’s a problem. The Federal Highway Trust Fund will run out of money in July or August, so Congress will have to find a way to keep it solvent and come up with around $9 Billion. But then the bigger picture going forward is that the receipts coming into the Federal Highway Trust Fund are actually less than the outlays are for project commitments. With all of the projects from state Departments of Transportation the current shortfall would be around $15 Billion next year. First Congress will have to get $9 Billion for the Federal Highway Trust Fund to be solvent for the remainder of this federal fiscal year, and then going beyond, we need to either extend MAP 21 at the current funding level plus add an additional infusion of $15 Billion+ until a more permanent solution is arrived at by having higher revenues to support the program or reduce the program to the level of the revenue. **MD-ASCE: A big reason why the Highway Trust Fund revenues are not keeping pace with our needs is that cars have become much more efficient than 20 years ago. Are there other causes?** AP: Yes. The other issue is that the Federal Highway Gas Tax has not been raised since 1993 or indexed to inflation. When you look at the cars you drove in the mid 1990s, the car that you drive today is more fuel efficient. Also, what a dollar could buy in 1993 is not what a dollar can buy in 2014. So you have two things going against you, the first thing is the purchasing power of the gas tax which hasn’t changed since 1993 (inflation), and the second is your fuel efficiency. Hence we have this crisis that is getting more acute lately because of better fuel efficiency standards. **MD-ASCE: Has FDOT received any correspondence from USDOT about the possible insolvency?** AP: No. However, USDOT Secretary Foxx has made some comments in general briefings with us during federal highway and USDOT national meetings, but no formal correspondence sent out, nor any correspondence about the possibility of slowing down reimbursements to the states. With this federal program, we have to spend money, then seek reimbursement from them (USDOT). **MD-ASCE: Has FDOT begun working on any contingency plans on what to do if the Federal Highway Trust Fund does become insolvent in July or August?** AP: Our contingency plan is that we are only dependent on federal funds to the tune of about 30% of our programs. So, unlike other states as shown in a newspaper article, we are one of the few states that do not have to rely as heavily on federal funds. So what we’ve been doing is carrying a higher balance in our trust fund so that if we don’t get reimbursed (by the federal government) timely, then we can still continue to pay our bills to contractors. I would say that since Florida only relies on the federal government for 30%, and Florida revenues are a little robust, so we carry a higher balance in our Florida trust fund. I think we could survive an insolvent Federal Highway Trust Fund for 3-6 months without any negative impact, but beyond that you’re going to have a tangible impact that you can’t avoid. **MD-ASCE: What do you think will happen in Washington D.C. after July or August?** AP: Beyond July or August there is a big election coming up nationally so I’m cautiously optimistic that they will put more money in to make the fund solvent until next year, then after the fall elections are done the Congress would likely begin debating a much more robust highway bill and how to fund it. Policy frameworks are easy, but the bigger issue is how do you get funding? **MD-ASCE: Has FDOT made any plans for projects that would be protected if the Federal Highway Fund does become insolvent?** AP: Safety and preservation is first. The second thing would be public-private partnership projects. Those have to be protected. So we’ll walk through the list. We have a game plan for doing this. Obviously safety and preservation, then public-private partnerships, then we’ll start looking at projects that could be deferred and projects that are based on other things that are happening in a region that we don’t want to negatively affect. **MD-ASCE: In South Florida we have many big projects planned during this timeframe like the 826-836 interchange, managed lanes for Palmetto and I-75, I-95 Express phase 2.** AP: 826-836 would be one of the last things affected since it is a project already under construction. **MD-ASCE: And the other examples?** AP: The reality is that is that for projects like the express lanes on the Palmetto and I-75 where construction has not begun, we may have to delay the project a few months. But we would not delay an ongoing project of that magnitude like 826-836. We would look at projects that are about to start and maybe push out the start date a little bit, and not take on new projects until the situation stabilizes. Ongoing construction projects…. I don’t foresee that they would be impacted. **MD-ASCE: The USDOT site has a sub-account listed for mass transit, which projected it to remain solvent only until late 2014. How might mass transit be affected?** AP: We would have to look at prioritizing critical services, not taking on new things, and maybe scale back on some things. It’s like if tomorrow someone said you now need to live off only 70% of your income, then you’d have to make some choices. For the next 3 months you need to live off 70% of your income, you’d prioritize, you defer some things. **MD-ASCE: What are some things the public might notice if the federal transit account becomes insolvent?** AP: I’m sure the service levels would be affected. If you don’t have the money, you can’t run the same services….frequency of buses or trains, so you’d see diminished or less frequent service that you’d have to work around. Hopefully they will fix the shortfall. I think right now there is more of a focus (in Washington) on a short-term fix. I don’t believe there is enough support for increasing the gas tax, so the folks in D.C. they may have to look at other options of maybe cutting things that aren’t as relevant in the 21st century. **MD-ASCE: What are some other things you think Floridians should know?** AP: We need to continue investing in infrastructure. At the state level we are doing it. At the federal level their role should be proportionate with the amount of funding they provide. We need to deliver projects in a more cost-efficient way, while making sure we balance it within model impacts, historical impacts, social impacts, and economic considerations. All those things need to be balanced. If we do that, we can deliver projects in the most cost-efficient way. **MD-ASCE: What is your take on the last legislative session in Tallahassee?** AP: Our budget is robust. The legislative session just ended and the legislature just passed the budget to fund the transportation at record levels, which obviously the Governor has been very supportive of….our investment in ports, aviation, and transportation. Investments in transportation are the foundation for economic development and activity. If we are looking to attract businesses to come to the state and wanting businesses in the state to grow, they are going to ask: what’s our quality of life, quality of education, and quality of infrastructure. [Read the full interview here in their May newsletter. ](http://www.miamidade-asce.org/#!communications/cl25 "Miami Dade newsletters") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FHTF-DOT-image.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=What%20Happens%20To%20States%20When%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Runs%20Dry%3F%20Florida%20Weighs%20In "Share on 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Vermont Leadership Make Lake Champlain Bridge Project Success](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-york-and-vermont-leadership-make-lake-champlain-bridge-project-success/) **Published:** May 22, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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This means leadership at the federal, state, and local levels of government, by businesses and individuals, to communicate the importance of our nation’s infrastructure, to craft innovative solutions that reflect the diverse needs of the nation, and to make the investments the system needs. By employing strategies to use every dollar more efficiently and by deploying creative solutions to infrastructure development such as public–private partnerships, we can implement the right projects on time at the right price. **A Leadership Success Story** In 2009, civil engineers deemed the Lake Champlain Bridge, connecting Crown Point, New York, to Addison, Vermont, as structurally unsafe, and authorities closed the bridge. By December 2009 it was concluded that the bridge could not be repaired, and the nearly 100-year-old landmark was demolished, removing a key route for area residents. [![SS-chartruse](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)Construction began in June 2010 to install a new 2,200 foot long bridge. Despite a harsh winter and spring, construction crews completed the bridge in less than two years, limiting the social and economic impacts. The main arch span was prefabricated off-site, floated by barge to the already constructed approach spans, and then lifted into place. The new bridge also took into account public safety concerns and Complete Streets engineering by including pedestrian and bicycle lanes. The $76 million project was co-led by the New York State Department of Transportation and the Vermont Agency of Transportation, with costs shared equally. The Lake Champlain Bridge [demonstrates the positive impact](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLY5_Fdtgyg&lr=1) when states, agencies, and the public work together. [Find more success stories from your state in the *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20York%20and%20Vermont%20Leadership%20Make%20Lake%20Champlain%20Bridge%20Project%20Success&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FLake-Champlain-Bridge-Project-NY-VT.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20York%20and%20Vermont%20Leadership%20Make%20Lake%20Champlain%20Bridge%20Project%20Success "Share on 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Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-commends-u-s-senate-and-house-of-representatives-on-passage-of-water-resources-reform-and-development-act/) **Published:** May 22, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20commends%20passage%20of%20%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20commends%20passage%20of%20%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act "Share on 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Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding the final passage today of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act by the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives: “Today’s congressional passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) is a defining moment for the nation’s ports, inland waterways, dams, levees and clean water infrastructure. The bill will provide significant funding — $12.3 billion over ten years — to modernize critical infrastructure while also promoting economic growth and job creation. “ASCE’s 2013 [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded the nation’s ports a C, inland waterways a D-, dams a D, and levees a D-. Since the release of our 2013 Report Card, we’ve urged Congress to pass water resources legislation that would revitalize these languishing sectors. After seven years with no legislative action to modernize the nation’s water resources, this bill will definitively move the ball forward to help raise the grades on America’s infrastructure. “ASCE applauds Congress for its decisive and bipartisan action in getting WRRDA over the finish line. This bill will ensure that our nation’s ports, waterways, dams and levees receive the funding they require so that the United States remains competitive in the 21st century. We look forward to the legislation being signed into law by the president in the coming days.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. ASCE’s [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), graded America’s cumulative GPA for infrastructure at a D+. The Report Card app for [Apple](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2013-report-card-for-americas/id603625735?ls=1&mt=8) and [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ASCE.ASCEInfrastructureReportCard2013) devices includes videos, interactive maps and info-graphics that tell the story behind the grades, as well as key facts for all 50 states. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org) and follow us on Twitter, @[ASCETweets](https://twitter.com/ascetweets) and @[ASCEGovRel](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel).* \### [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20commends%20passage%20of%20%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20commends%20passage%20of%20%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20commends%20passage%20of%20%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20and%20Development%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, dams, infrastructure, levees, ports, water, water infrastructure, wrrda --- ### [This Week In Infrastructure: A lot to Celebrate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-a-lot-to-celebrate/) **Published:** May 23, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=This%20Week%20In%20Infrastructure%3A%20A%20lot%20to%20Celebrate&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=This%20Week%20In%20Infrastructure%3A%20A%20lot%20to%20Celebrate "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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As always, this important holiday allows us to pause and remember those who dedicated and sacrificed their lives for our country. So to our members who served in the military, and to all our active and veteran members of the armed forces we are grateful for your service. At ASCE, we are pleased that the [Water Resources & Reform Development Act](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/206850-how-we-build-infrastructure-and-keep-america-competitive) (WRRDA) conference committee report was voted on and [approved by the House](http://lubbockonline.com/local-news/2014-05-21/federal-water-legislation-passes-house-heads-senate#.U34InnaejYg) on Tuesday and the [Senate on Thursday](http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB10001424052702303749904579578282700990164?mg=reno64-wsj&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticle%2FSB10001424052702303749904579578282700990164.html). The bill, which [authorizes $12 billion in water projects](http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/congress/house-approves-12-billion-plus-water-bill/2014/05/20/27916366-e062-11e3-9442-54189bf1a809_story.html), [now moves to the White House](http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/206992-senate-sends-water-infrastructure-bill-to-obamas-desk) for the president’s signature. It is also important to note that while we so often talk about the gridlock in Washington, WRRDA passed with remarkable bipartisan support. Given the holiday weekend and unofficial start of summer travel, our friends at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) released a report about Americans’ tendency to “[Travel Like a Local](http://www.apta.com/resources/reportsandpublications/Documents/APTA-2014-Summer-Survey-Report.pdf)” while visiting a city. However, the unofficial start of summer also marks that we are inching closer to the Highway Trust Fund’s insolvency. Hopefully, passing WRRDA can serve as a springboard to further infrastructure legislation for transportation infrastructure. As [Americans hit the road this weekend](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/05/16/aaa-memorial-day-travelers/9169251/), a reliable funding source for the Highway Trust Fund may be far from most drivers’ minds, but what won’t be is sitting in traffic or avoiding potholes, reminders of the [failure to act and its consequences](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/report-card/economic-study/). Suggestions about ways to [fix the upcoming insolvency](http://blogs.dcvelocity.com/reverse_logistics/2014/05/map-21-reauthorization-bill-term-and-the-effects-on-transportation-logistics.html) continue, including from the American Trucking Association (ATA) this week, which announced [support for indexing the federal fuel tax to inflation](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=35031&t=ATA-Backs-Indexing-Fuel-Tax-to-Inflation-Adding-%E2%80%98Highway-Access-Fee-to-Fund-Infrastructure). On The Huffington Post, an Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) analyst also [encouraged fixing the gas](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/carl-davis/fix-the-gas-tax-before-ex_b_5364880.html) tax to reflect current costs. Have a safe and fun holiday weekend! And feel free to take the opportunity to advocate to [\#fixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23fixthetrustfund) and [\#RebuildRenew](https://twitter.com/hashtag/RebuildRenew?src=hash) while you’re stuck in traffic (just don’t tweet while driving, please). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20In%20Infrastructure%3A%20A%20lot%20to%20Celebrate&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, wrrda --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Investment Ensures Infrastructure Effectiveness](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-investment-ensures-infrastructure-effectiveness/) **Published:** May 30, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure is to keep people safe as they live their lives. This is realized in the millions of people who successfully drive or take public transit to work each day; in the clean water that comes out of the tap; and the safety offered by dams. But unfortunately we know that sometimes this goal is not achieved. This week we are reminded of this as [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](http://www.damsafety.org/news/?p=9c143954-013c-42cf-87c8-8a105c80e8dd) remembers the [unnecessary loss of life in Johnstown, Penn. 125 years ago](http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=316690782). [When we invest](http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Columns/2014/05/23/Congress-Blowing-Huge-Opportunity-Rebuild-America), we [are less likely to experience these tragedies](http://www.tcdailyplanet.net/blog/david-schultz/potholes-infrastructure-and-jim-oberstar), as it ensures that infrastructure succeeds in what it was designed to do. The [Water Resources Reform & Development Act](https://enr.construction.com/engineering/subscription/LoginSubscribe.aspx?cid=28377) (WRRDA) reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program is one step that offers this assurance, but there is still [more that must done](http://www.business2community.com/sustainability/potholes-jarring-glimpse-infrastructure-needs-surface-0895557#!RToxm). This is also true of the Highway Trust Fund. [Road conditions are a factor in one in three U.S. traffic fatalities](https://invest.transportation.org/). As the Trust Fund moves toward insolvency in the next few months, states will have less funding to repair roads or start new projects. This will be [hard on commuters, summer road travelers and the economy](http://www.newsobserver.com/2014/05/23/3883617/north-carolinas-crumbling-infrastructure.html). As Vermont Rep. Peter Welch said, “[potholes don’t fix themselves](http://www.reformer.com/state/ci_25854984/welch-highlights-highway-funding-dilemma).” Whether you’re paying for it in gas taxes, [tolls](http://www.forbes.com/sites/realspin/2014/05/28/interstates-arent-free-so-lets-lift-the-ban-on-tolling-them/), or time idling in your car, you are paying for it. It is time to [\#fixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/hashtag/fixthetrustfund) so we can benefit from investment, rather than suffer the [consequences of inaction](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). 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The Highway Trust Fund is Running Out of Money Because We Waste Money** Thanks to the [Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/publications/publicroads/01novdec/legacy.cfm) ([ISTEA](http://www.apta.com/gap/policyresearch/Documents/ISTEASummary.PDF)), first passed in 1991, transportation projects are planned, developed and executed efficiently while utilizing innovation. Grades in the *Report Card* prove that when we invest in infrastructure, we see results. The *2013 Report Card saw improvement in six infrastructure sectors that benefited from private investment, targeted efforts from cities and states, or a one-time federal funding boost. Communities oftentimes know best where money will be best utilized, and the Highway Trust Fund allows many transportation project decisions to be made on the state and local levels. For example, federal funding eligibility for bicycle lanes is a concern in many places. Since there is a growing national share of bicycle and pedestrian fatalities that needs to be addressed through better road design and other proven countermeasures, the Highway Trust Fund allows a community to identify this need on its own roads and decide how to best design bike lanes for that community. **2. The Federal Government Should Get Out of the Infrastructure Business and Let States Make Their Own Decisions** The Highway Trust Fund is designed to assist states in paying (historically about 45 percent) for transportation projects for many reasons, and it is a system that has served the country well. The cost of transportation projects is a huge expense and states do not have the funding to go this alone. The U.S. Constitution’s Commerce Clause ([Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3](http://www.law.cornell.edu/constitution/articlei#section8)) grants Congress the power to invest and maintain roads, bridges and transit. From the Interstate Highway System (keyword: Interstate) to our ever-expanding electrical grid, infrastructure is indeed a national issue that must be addressed through a national vision. **3. The Current Gas Tax Rate is Perfect and Does Not Need to Be Changed** The Highway Trust Fund is how Congress provides federal funding for transportation projects. It was created in 1956 to be funded by the federal gas tax. The U.S. Department of Transportation projects that the Highway Account of the Highway Trust Fund will run out of money for new projects as early as July. According to the Congressional Budget Office, to prevent insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund in 2015, federal surface transportation investment would have to be cut by 92 percent that year. The gas tax is not tied to inflation and hasn’t been raised in more than 20 years. We are trying to run a 2014 transportation system on 1993 dollars. Consider that the cost of many items has doubled or tripled since 1993. For example, a new car cost $12,750 in 1993, whereas in 2013 a new car costs on average $31,252. The purchasing power of the federal gas tax is not what it once was. This is obviously an untenable formula that must be addressed. **4. We Can Just Raise Enough Revenue Through Tolls and Public-Private Partnerships (P3s).** Tolls and P3s can be successful sources of revenue, and are a part of the overall solution, but neither is a silver bullet in finding a sustainable long-term funding source. Historically, federal highway funding has accounted for approximately 45 percent of what state DOTs spend on highway and bridge capital improvements. Quite simply, the federal government must lead on the issue of funding. For the 10 year window, 2015-2024, the cumulative shortfall in the highway and mass transit accounts of the HTF will be over $170 billion. This is too large a figure for anyone to expect to be filled by tolling and P3s. While as House T&I Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) has said “the private sector continues to show significant, growing interest in investing in infrastructure,” they cannot be a substitute for federal investment and federal leadership. The key is finding a long-term, sustainable funding source. P3s and tolls are pieces of the puzzle, and when partnered with a sustainable revenue stream, can help ensure reliable revenue for the Highway Trust Fund. **5. We Don’t Have Enough Revenue Because People Are Driving Less** Over the past two years, [vehicle miles traveled (VMT) actually increased](http://www.slideshare.net/artba/artba-memo-to-transport-l-as-on-truth-behind-vmt-march-2014); in 2012 by 0.3 percent and in 2013 by 0.6 percent. While there was a downturn in vehicle miles traveled after 2007, this decrease coincided with the recession. As the economy continues to improve, more employees will return to work, increasing VMT. Furthermore, the U.S. population grows each year by just under three million people, and the number of licensed drivers also grows by two million people. It is estimated that this trend in population growth will lead to an [increase of 25 billion VMT annually](http://www.slideshare.net/artba/artba-memo-to-transport-l-as-on-truth-behind-vmt-march-2014). **6. Raising the Gas Tax Would Hurt Economic Growth** In our [Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) economic studies, ASCE explored the consequences of continued underinvestment in infrastructure. Ultimately, the studies [concluded](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/report-card/economic-study/) that our deteriorating infrastructure will cost the American economy more than 867,000 jobs in 2020 and suppress the growth of our GDP by $897 billion by 2020. Per household, the cost of deficient surface transportation will cost $1060 per year. To simplify, a homeowner can either fix a leaky roof now or wait for his or her home to eventually cave. Clearly, the former is much more cost effective. Our nation’s infrastructure needs to be tended to and funded now, or we will all continue to pay for it in a multitude of ways at much higher costs. **7. The Gas Tax Isn’t Raising Enough Money Because Cars are More Fuel Efficient** Between 2012 and 2022, [gas tax revenues will decrease by less than 1 percent](http://switchboard.nrdc.org/blogs/dlovaas/how_cbo_got_it_wrong_on_fuel_c.html), ($2.5 billion) the CBO estimates. The issue at hand is not really fuel efficiency, but rather that the gas tax has not been increased since 1993. In the 20 years since, it has lost more than a third of its value because of inflation. Fuel efficiency will become more of a problem as fuel efficiency technology continues to advance in the coming decades, but in the near term it is less of a problem than often stated. **8. We Can Afford to Do a Short-Term Bill and Maintain the Status Quo** Not this time. The 2012 surface transportation law, MAP-21, temporarily preserved levels of federal highway and public transportation investment by supplementing existing Highway Trust Fund revenues with other federal resources. Since 2008, over $52 billion has been transferred from the General Fund to the Highway Trust Fund to keep it solvent. MAP-21’s funding will run out as the Highway Trust Fund becomes insolvent weeks, or more likely months, before the law intended the money to end. Attempting to “Band-Aid” the Trust Fund once again will only result in this becoming a recurring issue. States, planners, and engineers cannot plan needed infrastructure projects without committed funding. As the impending insolvency demonstrates, [there is currently not enough revenue to support the system](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america/htf-letter-to-state-dots). Furthermore, the 2013 [*Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded our nation’s infrastructure at a D+. Clearly that status quo is not enough in helping the U.S. build a 21st century infrastructure capable of competing on a global scale. **9. Congress Cannot Get Big Things Done Because Everything Turns in to a Partisan Fight** In the words of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, [“Infrastructure spending is popular on both sides.”](http://time.com/83073/barack-obama-transportation-republicans/) In the past year transportation legislation and funding ideas have come from both Democrats and Republicans. Notably, Rep. John Delaney’s (D-MD) Infrastructure Bank bill was proposed with an equal number of [Democrat and Republican co-sponsors](http://delaney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delaney-introduces-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill). [Sen. Vitter (R-LA) and Sen. Boxer (D-CA)](http://blogs.rollcall.com/wgdb/boxer-and-vitter-have-a-tentative-deal-on-the-next-highway-bill/?dcz=) have worked closely to craft a six-year highway bill, which passed out of committee with a unanimous bipartisan vote. And [Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI) proposed a tax reform bill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/199331-rep-camps-tax-reform-bill-includes-126b-for) which included $126 billion for transportation projects in an effort to close the Highway Trust Fund shortfall. Efforts from both sides of the aisle, and the recent bipartisan support that led to the passage of the Water Resources Reform & Development Act (WRRDA), prove that there is support for infrastructure investment in both parties. Furthermore, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce continues to support [ raising the gas tax](http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-02-12/gas-tax-boost-best-way-to-fund-highway-bill-donohue-says.html), stating it is the “simplest and most straightforward” option to fund a long-term highway bill. Without question, infrastructure is a bipartisan issue that has seen encouraging proposals on both sides. Given that this is an area where Congress can agree, now is the time to work together and get something done. **10. We Don’t Have the Money to Fix The Problem** The Highway Trust Fund will become insolvent in only a couple months, meaning the federal government will slow or stop sending checks to state DOTs this summer. The economic consequences of not being able to pay contractors and employees will send shockwaves throughout our economy. This is going to happen. The notion that we simply cannot find a long-term, sustainable revenue source is false. The costs of inaction and allowing the Highway Trust Fund to cease funding for needed repairs and maintenance are immense. [Americans are already paying for the cost](http://money.cnn.com/2013/02/12/news/economy/infrastructure-spending/) of our nation’s D+ infrastructure. American families and businesses are losing money and time. Congested roads cost an estimated $101 billion per year in wasted time and fuel, and driving on roads in need of repair costs motorists an average of $324 per year in vehicle repair and operating costs. We can either invest now or pay a whole lot more in the years ahead. The lesson is clear: [We can’t afford *not* to act](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/report-card/economic-study/). 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Michael Bennet of Colorado reflected this week on the significance of the grand opening of the Denver Union Station. His thoughts included discourse on the “[foresight and generosity](http://www.journal-advocate.com/sterling-columnists/ci_25878050/building-americas-future)” of past generations to build highways and waterways that serve us today. He then implores his community—and us all—to consider what our legacy will be in ensuring such important infrastructure is built and maintained for future generations. [If this legacy was decided all upon our current funding situation](http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/congress-detours-from-common-sense-on-the-looming-highway-trust-fund-shortfall/2014/06/04/a5f4aa6c-eb64-11e3-9f5c-9075d5508f0a_story.html), it would not be good. As *FiveThirtyEight* puts it, “[The United States has an infrastructure problem](http://fivethirtyeight.com/features/why-we-still-cant-afford-to-fix-americas-broken-infrastructure/).” Other reports are equally scathing. In [Iowa the headline starts with the word troubles](http://kimt.com/2014/06/03/troubles-with-transportation-funding/)—never a good sign. An article written in Hawaii describes how [Congress’ inability to act could undermine the state’s transportation](http://www.civilbeat.com/2014/06/inaction-congress-undermine-transportation-hawaii/). Just a year ago, the Skagit River Bridge collapsed in Washington state. This [event illustrated the need for investment](http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2014/06/02/3671175/unhappy-with-lack-of-transportation.html), but unfortunately seems like a distant memory in these [discussions](http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/editorials/2014/06/04/will-take-bold-steps-keep-nation-infrastructure-maintained/fxrUzNmr3KmNOG2CObbekN/story.html). Congress is “[scrambling](http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress/highway-funding-crisis-has-lawmakers-scrambling-20140602)” to find a [solution](http://blog.tstc.org/2014/06/03/whats-the-difference-grow-america-act-vs-map-21-reauthorization/) before the Highway Trust Fund starts seeing red ([in late July or early August](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=35130&t=AASHTO-Presses-Congress-to-Act-on-Highway-Trust-Fund-Crisis)), and while that’s better than doing nothing, the hope is that lawmakers make it [a priority, and offer a multi-year bill](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tony-dutzik/the-transportation-crisis_b_5433444.html) that is designed to [support today’s needs](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/02/opinion/americas-highways-running-on-empty.html?_r=0). On Thursday Sen. Wyden made positive remarks suggesting that these hopes could be fulfilled. The Senator from Oregon described a Senate Finance Committee meeting as “[a productive discussion](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/208337-wyden-wants-transportation-funding-in-place-by-july#.U5Ck-fyIAK0.twitter)” on finding funding for both the near and long term, and is committed to finding a sustainable solution to [\#fixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?q=fixthetrustfund). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Searching%20for%20Sustainable%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund --- ### [Watch Live- Big Victory for America's Infrastructure With WRRDA Signing](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/watch-live-big-victory-for-americas-infrastructure-with-wrrda-signing/) **Published:** June 10, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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WHITEHOUSE.GOV](http://www.whitehouse.gov) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Watch%20Live-%20Big%20Victory%20for%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20With%20WRRDA%20Signing&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F06%2FWRRDAsign2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Watch%20Live-%20Big%20Victory%20for%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20With%20WRRDA%20Signing "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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[launched](http://www.gobytrucknews.com/asce-launches-fixthetrustfund/123) [FixtheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). The campaign encourages parents, businesses, commuters, and consumers to connect with Congress and ask for a long-term, sustainable funding solution for the Highway Trust Fund. Our plea to Congress was echoed by our friends during the [Rally for Roads](http://www.forconstructionpros.com/news/11519520/rally-for-roads-presses-congress-to-save-the-highway-trust-fund-establish-long-term-transportation-bill) on Wednesday. The rally brought together road builders, construction unions and equipment manufacturers in support of transportation project funding. Sen. Barbara Boxer of California and Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, who chair the Environment & Public Works and Finance committees respectively, spoke at the event in support of fixing the Highway Trust Fund. The two are key members working on the next transportation bill. Sen. Boxer again confirmed her commitment to passing a bill this summer, saying “We can’t build roads or sign up for important projects if we have a three-month patch.” ASCE Executive Director Pat Natale also shared [ASCE’s call for action](http://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/fix-the-trust-fund) in a guest post on the USDOT’s blog, *Fast Lane*. In a microcosm of our nation’s need to invest more in roads and bridges, the [Michigan state legislature failed to pass a much-needed roads funding bill](http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20140612/NEWS/140619936/senate-adjourns-for-summer-leaving-michigan-roads-unfunded). Stephen Henderson of *The Detroit Free Press* wrote about his (and many others’) [frustrations](http://www.freep.com/article/20140611/COL33/306110172/Michigan-roads), as Michigan potholes continue to be a constant battle for drivers months after winter’s end. It is not just Michiganders who are frustrated and willing to invest in infrastructure. AAA released research this week demonstrating that [drivers are willing to pay more for better roads](http://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/americans-willing-pay-more-fix-roads-survey-n130011). This can also be seen in [the diverse group](http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/crystal_lake_cary/community/chi-ugc-article-diverse-group-urges-leaders-to-solve-highway-2014-06-11,0,2274578.story) of people rallying around finding funding for the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.betterroads.com/htf-101-how-the-highway-trust-fund-works/). The growing urgency is also being felt by many states, including [Oregon](http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2014/06/odot_postpones_road_improvemen.html), [South Dakota](http://wnax.com/news/180081-transportation-official-says-highway-bill-needs-passing/), [Georgia](http://www.peachpundit.com/2014/06/12/transportation-funding-are-public-private-partnerships-the-answer/), [Idaho](http://www.mtexpress.com/index2.php?ID=2007152407#.U5sDl3btLYg), [Minnesota](http://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2014/06/federal-highway-trust-fund-running-empty-minnesota-transportation-advocates-), and [Iowa](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/2014/06/11/highway-plan-approval-comes-warning-funding/10312387/). While [discussions continue](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/10/us/politics/plan-to-refill-highway-fund-stokes-conflict-in-congress.html?_r=0) in Congress, a [set path and long-term bill](http://www.rollcall.com/news/solutions_to_highway_fund_shortfall_in_the_slow_lane-233677-1.html?pos=hln) are still not a certainty as the deadline looms. Now is the time to [contact your legislators](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/tell-your-elected-leaders/). Visit [FixtheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and [share the videos and facts to educate](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/whats-the-problem/) your friends and family on how to [take action](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/), too. 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email")[President Obama last week signed a $12.3 billion water resources bill that will modernize critical water infrastructure](http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2014/06/10/president-obama-signs-water-resources-reform-and-development-act-and-honors-borinque) while also promoting economic growth and job creation. The Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA) authorizes 34 new Army Corps projects, establishes a new loan financing program, strengthens levee and dam safety programs and codifies new reforms to the project review process. There are a number of significant victories for ASCE and the nation’s infrastructure. The legislation is the first major water resources bill in seven years and is being applauded by organizations across the spectrum. [ASCE’s 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)graded the nation’s ports a C, [inland waterways a D-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/inland-waterways/), dams a D, and levees a D-. ASCE lobbied Congress to pass the bill and is particularly supportive of the Levee Safety Initiative and The National Dam Safety Program. The national Levee Safety Initiative will promote consistent safety standards, create levee safety guidelines and provide funding assistance to states for establishing participating levee safety programs. WRRDA authorizes $395 million to support levee safety initiatives and $70 million over five years for dam safety. Once funded, these programs will provide critical resources necessary to improve the safety of the nation’s dams and levees. The bill also solves long standing expenditure issues in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF). WRRDA authorizes that 100% of funds collected by the HMTF to be allocated to the intended purpose (dredging the nation’s ports and harbors) by 2025. Previously only a fraction of funds collected by the fund were used to support port and harbor programs. The bill also allocates 10% of HMTF expenditure for emerging harbors. WRRDA makes a number of changes to the popular Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) and creates a new water financing pilot program similar to TIFIA for surface transportation projects. The new SRF provisions provide loan flexibility, lower interest rates and extended repayment periods of 30 years. SRF funds may also now be used to implement watershed plans, water conservation, stormwater recapture, and for technical assistance to small and medium treatment works. A significant win for the engineering community is the requirement for the use of the Brooks Act qualifications based selection for A/E services or an equivalent State qualifications-based requirement (as determined by the Governor of the State when using SRF fund). ASCE has worked to include this provision for over 10 years. The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) is intended to increase flexibility for non-federal interests and leverages private sector investments to increase the effect of federal funding. The new WIFIA program can be used for traditional clean water and drinking water project, and also will provide assistance to projects with the goal of reducing flood damage; restoring aquatic ecosystems; improving inland and intracoastal waterway navigation systems. Finally, the bill includes new reforms at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that codifies a new internal expedited project delivery process that limits feasibility studies to 3 years at a cost of no more than $3 million in federal funding. ASCE applauds Congress for their bipartisan work passing WRRDA. We look forward to working with appropriators to ensure these programs and projects are properly funded. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Everything%20You%20Need%20to%20Know%20About%20the%202014%20Water%20Resources%20Reform%20Development%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** clean water, dams, economy, levees, sustainability, water, waterways, wrrda --- ### [New Congressional Proposal Offers Gas Tax Increase Tied to Inflation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-congressional-proposal-offers-gas-tax-increase-tied-to-inflation/) **Published:** June 18, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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from the Hill today on transportation. [Senators Bob Corker (R-TN) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) are floating a plan to increase the gas tax](http://www.murphy.senate.gov/download/murphy-corker-htf "Plan to increase the gas tax") twice by increments of six cents, and then index the gas tax to inflation so it’s a sustainable revenue source. Here’s a statement from ASCE President Randall Over, P.E. : “The proposal issued today by Sens. Murphy and Corker to increase the federal gas tax as a way to provide needed long-term funding for the Highway Trust Fund is an encouraging step to improve our economy and raise the grades on the nation’s surface transportation infrastructure. “With the Highway Trust Fund expected to become insolvent in a matter of months, now is the time for action. The nation’s surface transportation challenges are too vast and the costs are too great for us to continue with the status-quo. “We applaud the bold leadership exhibited by Sens. Murphy and Corker for offering a meaningful proposal to help solve this problem, and look forward to working with them as this plan moves through the Senate.” To learn how you can get involved to fix the Highway Trust Fund visit ASCE’s new website [FixtheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org "Fix the Trust Fund"). 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Congressional%20Proposal%20Offers%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase%20Tied%20to%20Inflation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, Corker, gas tax, Murphy, statement, transportation --- ### [Will Pennsylvania's Infrastructure Make the Grade?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/will-pennsylvanias-infrastructure-make-the-grade/) **Published:** June 19, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"ASCE_Brochure—OR2019_nomarks")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PARC-bar.png) **Infrastructure has a direct impact on our lives every day—from the water we drink, to the schools our children attend and to the roads and rails we travel.** **Join us for one of ASCE’s release events for the [![PARC 2014 logo](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PARC-2014-logo.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PARC-2014-logo.jpg)Wednesday, June 25, 2014** **Harrisburg –** 9:45 AM**,** Harrisburg Amtrak Station, Transit Park lot, 815 Market St, Harrisburg, PA 17048. News conference and reception featuring: - **State Senator John Rafferty, Jr., Chairman of Senate Transportation Committee** - **Harry Campbell, Pennsylvania Executive Director, Chesapeake Bay Foundation - **Randall Over, ASCE National President** - **Jason Bowes, ASCE Central PA Section President** **Philadelphia –** 11 AM, 30th Street Station, 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104. News conference featuring: - **Darin Gatti, Chief Engineer, Philadelphia Streets Department** - **Jeffrey Knueppel, Deputy General Manager, SEPTA** - **Lester Toaso, District Executive, PennDOT District 6-0** **Pittsburgh –** 11 AM, South Shore Riverfront Park, 2705 S. Water St. Pittsburgh, PA 15203 (Monongahela waterfront below the Hofbräuhaus). News conference featuring: - **Daniel Cessna PE, PennDOT Engineering District 11, District Executive** - **Dennis Davin, Allegheny County, Director of Economic Development** - **Bill Flanagan, Allegheny Conference on Community Development Executive Vice President, Corporate Relations** **Allentown/Lehigh Valley Area –** 10 AM**,** PennDOT, 1002 Hamilton Street, Allentown, PA 18101. News conference featuring: - **Michael W. Rebert, P.E., PennDOT Engineering District 5, District Executive** - **Becky Bradley, Executive Director of the Lehigh Valley Planning Commission** - **Aurel Arndt, General Manager, Lehigh County Authority, Allentown, PA** **RSVP to** [**reportcard@asce.org**](mailto:reportcard@asce.org) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Will%20Pennsylvania%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Make%20the%20Grade%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F06%2FPARC-bar.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Will%20Pennsylvania%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Make%20the%20Grade%3F "Share on 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From [USA TODAY’s editorial urging lawmakers to set aside gimmicks in favor of sustainable funding](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2014/06/17/highway-trust-fund-gas-tax-editorials-debates/10708791/) solutions to [a bipartisan proposal to raise the gas tax 12 cents](http://money.msn.com/business-news/article.aspx?feed=AP&date=20140618&id=17711903). In an unprecedented bipartisan effort, Sen. Bob Corker (R-Tenn.) and Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) proposed the [ idea ](http://www.businessinsider.com/highway-trust-fund-solution-gas-tax-hike-corker-murphy-2014-6)to ensure funding that can [afford current and future infrastructure costs](http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2014/06/18/bipartisan-plan-to-raise-key-tax-for-the-first-time-in-more-than-two-decades/), as it would tie the user fee to inflation. Sen. Wyden of Oregon also announced progress on his efforts to fix the Highway Trust Fund. His [$10 billion plan would offer a six-month extension](http://online.wsj.com/articles/sen-wyden-building-support-for-highway-trust-fund-plan-1403048937) to provide time to pass a long-term bill and [authorize the spending](http://www.postindependent.com/opinion/11757681-113/transit-cliff-transportation-per). As [states](http://www.nationaljournal.com/policy/insiders/transportation/how-should-states-prepare-for-a-shortfall-20140616) are starting to put projects on hold because of the uncertainty, this will at least potentially ensure some of those projects could continue while a decision is met. Many states, including [Oregon](http://www.statesmanjournal.com/story/news/politics/state-workers/2014/06/17/audit-odot-losing-funding-highway-bridge-projects/10690125/) and [Mississippi](http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-opinion/2014/06/federal_highway_fund_depletion.html), voice concerns of the impending loss of federal funds. The sharing of ideas and demonstration of bipartisanship are promising indications that the states will continue to receive federal dollars. Every day, [news](http://canton-ct.patch.com/groups/bernard-kavaler--ctbythenumberss-blog/p/aging-bridges-considerable-disrepair-are-significant-challenge-in-ct-nationwide7441819938) stories of the [poor condition of our nation’s infrastructure](http://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2014/06/16/Black-holes/stories/201406130039) appear. But in the problem lies an [opportunity to do better](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/209093-improve-americas-infrastructure-quickly-yes-we-can) and [build a stronger economy](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/whats-the-problem/the-economic-impact/). The key is finding long-term sustainable funding solutions, whether through the[ gas tax](http://blogs.asce.org/new-congressional-proposal-offers-gas-tax-increase-tied-to-inflation/) or another option, it’s time to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Bipartisan%20Ideas&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [Pennsylvania Earns 7 Poor D Grades in New Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/pennsylvania-earns-7-poor-d-grades-in-new-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** June 25, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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logo](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PA-RC-combined-logo.png)](http://www.pareportcard.org/ "PA Report Card") Today, civil engineers from across Pennsylvania released a new [*Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure*](http://www.pareportcard.org/ "PA Report Card") giving 16 grades for the state’s infrastructure. Here’s how Pennsylvania’s infrastructure ranks from worst grades to best: **Roads D-** **Wastewater D-** **Drinking Water D** **Transit D** **Bridges D+** **Inland Waterways D+** **Stormwater D+** **Dams C-** **Levees C-** **Schools C-** **Energy C** **Solid Waste C+** **Ports C+** **Hazardous Waste B-** **Parks and Rec B-** **Freight Rail B** The Report Card found that Pennsylvania faces immense challenges to maintaining and modernizing infrastructure throughout the state: - Pennsylvania has the highest percentage of structurally deficient bridges in the country. Of the Commonwealth’s more than 22,000 bridges, nearly one in four are considered structurally deficient. - Pennsylvania has the most combined sewer overflows (CSOs) of any state. - The Commonwealth must invest $28 billion over the next 20 years to repair existing wastewater systems, meet clean water standards and build or expand existing systems to meet increasing demands - Pennsylvania’s 1.3 traffic fatalities per 100 million miles of travel is significantly higher than the national average (1.1). The 2014 Pennsylvania Report Card provides three recommendations to move Pennsylvania forward: 1. **KEEP UP THE MOMENTUM FOR BETTER INFRASTRUCTURE:** In 2013, Pennsylvania’s officials showed leadership by passing a transportation package that will start putting the roads, bridges, and transit systems back into working order. 2. **AFFIRM PUBLIC SAFETY AS GOVERNMENT’S #1 JOB:**Whether it’s repairs to bridges, ensuring safe drinking water, or keeping up on dam safety inspections, public safety must always be the first priority as leaders budget and plan for the future. Ensuring infrastructure is resilient and online 99.9% of the time will keep communities safe and the economy thriving. 3. **STOP WASTING MONEY BY WAITING:** Of the 7 infrastructure categories with D grades, all of these deal with transportation and water systems, and much of the repairs and long-term funding are being short-changed. Waiting will only lead to larger issues that will disrupt lives and cost even more when the bill comes due. Pennsylvania must look at the full cost of decisions and then put savings to use. To raise Pennsylvania’s grades, the Commonwealth’s leaders need to keep up momentum started by the Act-89 for transportation and start working on the state’s other infrastructure issues. Congress also needs to keep the momentum going from the passage of water resources reform and focus on [fixing the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/ "Fix the Trust Fund"). Pennsylvania has done their part to fix and fund their transportation network and so should Congress. 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Benoit, P.E., M.ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-darren-m-benoit-p-e-m-asce/) **Published:** June 26, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fwashington.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fwashington.jpg&description=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*Darren M. Benoit, P.E., is an active member of the New Hampshire Section of ASCE. He works as a senior transportation manager for McFarland Johnson, Inc. In his role, he works on highway projects in Concord, New Hampshire and with clients throughout New England as a technical lead on projects.* *As a Key Contact for almost five years, Darren has advocated on a variety of issues, including an increase to the state gas tax to fund investments in transportation infrastructure. New Hampshire successfully passed a modest gas tax increase last month, making it the first state to sign a gas tax increase into law this year, a helpful mechanism for funding transportation projects.* *If you are interested in becoming involved in ASCE’s Key Contact program and promoting the profession through advocacy, you can* [*learn more information and sign up at asce.org*](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/)*.* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** Although I had been peripherally aware of state and national transportation issues, the focus of my advocacy work began when I accepted a volunteer position as the New Hampshire Section Government Relations Chair. My first [Fly-In](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/ASCE-s-Annual-Legislative-Fly-In/) was the start of building stronger relationships with our federal congressional delegation. After attending, I also accepted the role to lead an update to our state’s [*Infrastructure Report Card*](http://ascenh.org/uploads/docs/2011-ASCE-ReportCard.pdf). **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** Each year seems to bring its own challenges. At the national level, it is often advocating for the reauthorization of major bills such as the Surface Transportation or Aviation Investment Acts. At the state level we work closely with other professional societies to evaluate legislation being proposed. There is a lot more variation at that level including changes that would affect our licensing, liability issues, infrastructure funding bills, and more recently trying to protect engineers when they are called upon during disaster relief. **What levels of government have you focused your efforts on?** **Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there? Do you offer your expertise beyond that of a traditional citizen lobbyist for the public’s benefit?** My focus has been primarily on the state and federal levels. We are a small state with limited resources so we have to focus where we can have the most impact. A single long-term relationship can make a significant difference on the federal level. At the state level partnering with other engineering societies can help identify key legislation for our businesses and for infrastructure, allowing the individual groups to focus on the key issues. Each year we provide written testimony and oral testimony on select bills which I would see as the traditional advocacy, but I think our most effective measures are in communication. The optimum is to build a two-way relationship with your state and federal representatives such that they reach out to you to provide information on issues. This has included providing support at press conferences, providing names of professionals who can participate in conference calls, and provide the information needed for them to argue your point. One of the best tools we can provide our legislators is an updated Report Card at both the state and federal level. It has been a universal tool often cited in other documents, in congress, and even in the governor’s State of the State address. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** The first year is normally the hardest. The Report Card is [a great framework if your state has one](http://www.asce.org/infrastructure/report-card/state-and-local-report-cards/). Most have references to show the source and date of the information that can be updated if it has become stale. Over time I have built a network of professionals within the private, municipal, and state sectors that can provide up-to-date information in a very short amount of time. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** First, communication is key. Stay in contact with legislative contacts regularly instead of waiting for that single most critical issue. Posting articles on social media platforms, like Facebook, so other ASCE members are aware of the issues is also beneficial. Second is collaboration. There are many related professional groups that have common ground and can pool resources. Public works officials, contractors, and non-engineering groups often share our views and can provide a solid support base. Third is to not get discouraged. Stay positive and work long term. Billions of dollars in infrastructure investment is going to take a lot of discussion before headway will be made. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** This is an area where all types of personalities are present. Learning to communicate better with a broad variety of people is a skill that transcends all people and professions. **What has been challenging about being an advocate?** Trying to maintain that pesky day job. The intensity of a career in engineering allows for limited time to dedicate to advocacy. **What methods have you found effective in working through those challenges**? Collaboration. When I can’t attend a hearing personally, having others who can see that my written testimony is submitted is a great benefit. Building a Government Relations Committee that can spread the work is also important. **What sort of pitfalls or setbacks have you encountered?** **And how did you overcome them?** Most times compared to the oppositions’ lobbyists we are underfunded, have less time, and are volunteers. We also typically have less political experience and are not as politically connected. At best, we are still trying to get citizens to decide to invest more money in our infrastructure. We prepared a consistent message based upon facts and prepared for long debate. Define success in smaller increments. Most of our issues are cyclical and require regular attention to continue to make progress. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts?** The relationships built along the way. At first it may not feel like you are making a difference, but consistently being involved builds credibility. **Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** After the effort to publish the State Report Card, it was very rewarding when state officials began to cite or quote from the document. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference?** Certainly! The education of the next generation in advocacy. I am inspired by the number of younger members willing to reach out to their legislators and some to even testify in front of the legislature in support of the bills. Advocacy is not a natural extension of our training as engineers. A number of these younger engineers have joined me at the Fly-In and have started building their own relationships at the state and federal levels. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** Jump in with both feet, don’t get discouraged, and learn from others who have more experience in advocacy. Other like-minded organizations often have lobbyists who can help show you the ropes and ASCE-National has been an amazing resource for ASCE-NH. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Darren%20M.%20Benoit%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** New Hampshire, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** advocacy profile, infrastructure, New Hampshire --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: A Highway Trust Fund Patch Proposal](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-a-highway-trust-fund-patch-proposal/) **Published:** June 27, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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just [nine weeks away](http://ipadstopwatch.com/countdown-clock-embed-full-screen.html#date=1409284800000&title=The+Trust+Fund+Runs+Out+In&msg=Countdown+not+set), Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden offered a $9 billion plan as a short-time fix. If passed, this six-month funding proposal would give Congress time to find a long-term, sustainable funding source for the Highway Trust Fund. However, [not all members are pleased with the option](http://www.chattanoogan.com/2014/6/24/279095/Corker-Says-Americans-Should-Be.aspx) of [relying on quick fixes and patches](http://www.livingstondaily.com/article/20140623/OPINION01/306230011?odyssey=mod|mostcom). The funding mechanisms themselves are also being heavily debated, as some have rallied around Senators Corker’s and Murphy’s [suggestion to raise that gas tax 12 cents](http://www.nationaljournal.com/policy/insiders/transportation/a-gas-tax-hike-for-real-this-time-20140623) and tie it to inflation. [*The Los Angeles Times* offered context to the last time the gas tax was raised over 20 years ago](http://www.latimes.com/opinion/editorials/la-ed-highway-trust-fund-20140623-story.html)*.* The *Pittsburgh Post-Gazette* declared that “[a bump at the pump might be worth more than failing roads](http://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2014/06/25/Highway-safety-A-12-cent-hike-in-the-federal-gas-tax-is-a-fair-plan/stories/201406230012),” in an editorial written the same day that ASCE members in Pennsylvania released their *Infrastructure Report Card* [giving the state seven Ds](http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2014/06/25/pa-infrastructure-grades-suffer-due-to-poor-roads-bridges/), including the [roads and bridges](http://www.pareportcard.org/) sectors. [Pleas continue from mayors and governors](https://www.uschamber.com/blog/mayor-governor-agree-highway-funding-should-be-bipartisan-issue), explaining how the Highway Trust Fund’s shortfall would stunt local economies and hurt transportation projects. These concerns come as DOT Secretary Foxx wrote a letter to local elected officials cautioning that the [Mass Transit Account also faces insolvency](http://www.fta.dot.gov/documents/Dear_Colleague_Letter_Sec_Foxx_highlights_impending_shortfall.pdf) before the end of the year. If you believe the American people deserve better, [take action](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/) by writing to your members of Congress and signing the petition voicing that we are counting on them to fix the Trust Fund. 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email")[![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DSC_0141-1024x680.jpg "Philadelphia Report Card Release Event")](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZnp2A3zqz4&feature=youtu.be) [Watch clips from the release events speakers here, courtesy of Urban Engineers.](http://youtu.be/kZnp2A3zqz4 "PA Report Card Video") - **[Engineers grade Pa.’s infrastructure: C-minus](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNGQ4-SgSOqRMi8nfQcDk4rRBFRHCg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778543346785&ei=f1qrU7C5O6SDmAKhhIHABg&url=http://www.philly.com/philly/business/20140626_Engineers_grade_Pa__s_infrastructure__C-minus.html)** – Philly.com - **[Engineering Group Gives Low Marks to Pennsylvania Infrastructure](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNHZeKf-ajsnHNuI9cIdDgBw7yEppg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=f1qrU7C5O6SDmAKhhIHABg&url=http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/06/25/engineering-group-gives-low-marks-to-pennsylvania-infrastructure/)** -CBS Local – Philly - **[Pa. Infrastructure Grades Suffer Due To Poor Roads, Bridges](http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2014/06/25/pa-infrastructure-grades-suffer-due-to-poor-roads-bridges/)** – CBS Local – Pittsburgh - **[State’s civil engineers give roads a D- in latest “report card” – ](http://www.post-gazette.com/local/region/2014/06/25/State-s-civil-engineers-give-roads-a-D-in-latest-report-card/stories/201406250151)**Pittsburgh Post Gazette - **[Pennsylvania earns seven D’s in engineers’ infrastructure report card – ](http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2014/06/pennsylvania_earns_seven_ds_in.html)**The Express-Times - **[Pennsylvania’s new infrastructure report card averages to a C minus – ](http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/06/pennsylvanias_infrastructure_r.html)**Pennlive.com - **[Civil engineers give Pennsylvania low marks on infrastructure report card – ](http://www.wfmz.com/news/news-regional-lehighvalley/civil-engineers-give-pennsylvania-low-marks-on-infrastructure-report-card/26668890)**WFMZ - **[State Report Card: Pa. Nearly Fails in Bridges, Water, Roads – ](http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com/news/local/State-Report-Card-Pa-Nearly-Fails-in-Bridges-Water-Roads-264674501.html)**NBC 10 Philadelphia - **[Pennsylvania’s new infrastructure report card averages to a C minus](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNGIEEt5cKaiPOxEFOEAXQhiGkbVJw&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=f1qrU7C5O6SDmAKhhIHABg&url=http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/06/pennsylvanias_infrastructure_r.html)** -The Patriot-News - **[Civil engineers: More infrastructure spending is needed](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNHlT7MeETb1eeW00ddBk3bmvLIaiw&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778543107286&ei=0u2rU5CdOsPFmQKnvIHYCA&url=http://www.mcall.com/news/local/mc-engineers-road-report-20140625,0,5483251.story)** – Allentown Morning Call - **[Grades not good in engineers’ study of Pa.’s infrastructure](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNHla2tKsyUfwPC9GOE85gjW3pK-OQ&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=0u2rU5CdOsPFmQKnvIHYCA&url=http://www.wfmz.com/news/engineers-grade-pennsylvanias-infrastructure/26662340)** – WFMZ Allentown - **[Commonwealth infrastructure reaches almost an ‘F’](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNH5QWecAE_gEPrq_QtIoEvB9jjnUQ&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=LIurU6DIHKK0mQKz0ICICQ&url=http://fox43.com/2014/06/25/commonwealth-infastructure-reaches-almost-an-f/)** -FOX43.com - **[Report: 1 in 4 PA bridges structurally deficient](http://fox43.com/2014/06/25/report-1-in-4-pa-bridges-structurally-deficient/#axzz35gTBkMgs) –** Fox 43 - **[Pennsylvania earns seven D’s in engineers’ infrastructure report card – ](http://www.lehighvalleylive.com/breaking-news/index.ssf/2014/06/pennsylvania_earns_seven_ds_in.html)**Lehigh Valley Live - **[Pennsylvania gets seven D’s in infrastructure report – ](http://www.cpbj.com/article/20140625/CPBJ01/140629860&source=RSS)**Central Penn Business Journal - **[Engineers grade Pa.’s infrastructure: C-minus –](http://investing.businessweek.com/research/markets/news/article.asp?docKey=600-201406251804KRTRIB__BUSNEWS_55694_16057-1)** Bloomberg Businessweek - **[State infrastructure gets a C-minus grade](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNHj8zdurpfEAbNCNp_Le1gKFRaZTg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&ei=Jb2rU_jyIOO1mQKo0oCQAw&url=http://www.delcotimes.com/general-news/20140625/state-infrastructure-gets-a-c-minus-grade)** – Delaware County Daily Times - **[Pa.’s infrastructure barely makes the grade](http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNH2AJQ51a6CdhDD22muYls3rAHNQg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778543053849&ei=0u2rU5CdOsPFmQKnvIHYCA&url=http://www.newsworks.org/index.php/local/item/69667-pas-infrastructure-barely-makes-the-grade?linktype%3Dhp_topstory)** – Newsworks.org 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Sometimes%20It%E2%80%99s%20Best%20to%20Look%20Beneath%20You%3A%20A%20Successful%20Geothermal%20Project%20at%20Portland%20International%20Jetport&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![PDX](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/PDX.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/state-facts/maine "Portland Airport") [**Commit to Success**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/overview/key-solutions "Vision for Infrastructure") America’s infrastructure needs a national commitment to bring existing infrastructure into a state-of-good-repair, and in the long term we must modernize and build in a targeted and strategic manner. This means leadership at the federal, state, and local levels of government, by businesses and individuals, to communicate the importance of our nation’s infrastructure, to craft innovative solutions that reflect the diverse needs of the nation, and to make the investments the system needs. By employing strategies to use every dollar more efficiently and by deploying creative solutions to infrastructure development such as public–private partnerships, we can implement the right projects on time at the right price. **[Airport Finds Sustainable Success Underground](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/state-facts/maine "Report Card - Maine Success Story")[![SS-chartruse](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)** The centerpiece of the Portland International Jetport’s $75 million terminal expansion project was the installation of a geothermal heating and cooling system that reduces operating costs and emissions. A creative first in the airport industry, the $3 million project was able to make use of a $2.5 million Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Voluntary Airport Low Emissions (VALE) grant. The system will maintain a constant temperature inside the terminal building by injecting heat into the ground during the summer and taking heat out of the ground during the winter. The system has 23 miles of high-density polyethylene piping and 120 ground wells that reach as deep as 500 feet. The system moves more than 475 gallons of water per minute with a 125 horsepower pump. The new systems replace an oil-fired system and will save $160,000 in operating costs and prevent the emission of 1,000 tons of carbon per year, promoting both healthier infrastructure and alternative energy. [Find more success stories from your state in the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home "Report Card - State") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Sometimes%20It%E2%80%99s%20Best%20to%20Look%20Beneath%20You%3A%20A%20Successful%20Geothermal%20Project%20at%20Portland%20International%20Jetport&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F06%2FPDX.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Sometimes%20It%E2%80%99s%20Best%20to%20Look%20Beneath%20You%3A%20A%20Successful%20Geothermal%20Project%20at%20Portland%20International%20Jetport 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Maine, report card, success, sustaina --- ### [Highway Fix Still Uncertain as USDOT Puts State Agencies on Notice](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/highway-fix-still-uncertain-as-usdot-puts-state-agencies-on-notice/) **Published:** July 1, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Highway%20Fix%20Still%20Uncertain%20as%20USDOT%20Puts%20State%20Agencies%20on%20Notice&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Highway%20Fix%20Still%20Uncertain%20as%20USDOT%20Puts%20State%20Agencies%20on%20Notice "Share on 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The U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx [announced](http://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/dot-plans-highway-trust-fund-cash-management-procedures) plans for slowing reimbursements to states from the traditional twice a day method to every other week, starting on August 1 due to the low balance in the Fund. The U.S. Department of Transportation [cites](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america/dot-guidance-cmp-htf) on average that states will see a 28 percent drop in federal transportation dollars due to delayed payments. This piecemeal approach to funding federal highway projects may put many current projects on hold, slow down the advertisement of new projects, or even cancel proposed projects. Meanwhile, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee held a [meeting](http://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=0c30732e-5056-a032-5227-f9928e933c39) last week to approve a necessary [fix](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) to the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) [crisis](http://www.dot.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker), but it quickly devolved into an ideological tussle over two things: taxes and spending. The only thing that became clearer after the committee meeting was how far apart Democrats and Republicans are in their preferred solution to the ailing federal transportation [program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/map21/). Solutions spanned a list of items ranging from those that wanted to add more money for transportation, like [raising](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/politics/2014/06/27/carper-proposes-gas-tax-increase/11445377/) the gas tax and establishing an infrastructure finance [authority](http://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=8627b0e2-cdd5-4fba-baa0-35cc2cd6f6bf), to those that wanted to change parts of the current program, like [eliminating](http://articles.mcall.com/2014-06-26/news/mc-toomey-casey-transportation-bill-20140626_1_transportation-projects-transportation-spending-toomey) bicycle infrastructure and allowing states to [opt-out](http://www.ideastream.org/news/feature/62828) of the federal program. Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Ranking Member Orrin Hatch (R-UT) have pledged to try and navigate this divide and work together in order to reach agreement when Congress returns on July 7. The two sides could agree on less controversial [ideas](http://finance-commerce.com/2014/06/u-s-senate-panel-to-consider-highway-infusion/) like changes regarding mortgage reporting and pension plans, and efforts to generate funds from those who owe federal taxes, and stave-off a fiscal crisis this year. ASCE is urging the public to visit FixTheTrustFund.org and tell members of Congress to stabilize the Highway Trust Fund and prevent a shutdown of federal highway and public transportation investments across the country. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Highway%20Fix%20Still%20Uncertain%20as%20USDOT%20Puts%20State%20Agencies%20on%20Notice&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: POTUS Calls on Congress to Fix the Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-potus-calls-on-congress-to-fix-the-trust-fund/) **Published:** July 4, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Highway Trust Fund got a lot of attention this week, with the help of some [bad news for states](https://www.ccjdigital.com/dot-tells-states-highway-funding-restrictions-coming-aug-1-unless-congress-acts/) and a [speech by President Obama](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/02/us/obama-urges-funding-for-infrastructure-projects.html). While standing in front of the Key Bridge on Tuesday, appropriate for the week of Independence Day as it is named after [Francis Scott Key](http://www.smithsonianmag.com/ist/?next=/history/the-story-behind-the-star-spangled-banner-149220970/), the [President urged Congress to fix the Trust Fund](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel/status/484040174670991360). That same day USDOT Secretary Foxx sent a letter to his state counterparts. Unfortunately, [as warned for many months](http://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/dot-plans-highway-trust-fund-cash-management-procedures), he notified states that [funding from the federal government will slow](http://www.transportation.gov/grow-america/highway-account-cmp-letter-to-state-dots) starting the first week of August as the HTF reaches shortfall levels. From [Virginia](http://fairfaxnews.com/2014/07/connolly-highway-trust-fund-shortfall-threatens-virginia-commuters/) to [Kentucky](http://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2014/07/02/kentucky-road-projects-delayed-federal-shortfall/12109265/), [Indiana](http://wlfi.com/2014/07/02/area-planners-have-eyes-on-highway-trust-fund-deadline/) to [Hawaii](http://khon2.com/2014/07/02/are-hawaii-road-projects-in-jeopardy/) to [Louisiana](http://www.myarklamiss.com/story/d/story/loss-of-federal-funding-could-halt-ne-louisiana-ro/27657/-NspcfMJyEyl69yjRl18Lg), state DOTS are preparing for fewer and smaller reimbursements. It is not just DOTs that [suffer](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/07/02/stateline-highway-funds/12056037/) because of an insolvent Highway Trust Fund. It puts [877,000 jobs at risk](http://time.com/2946869/obama-highways-congress/). [Commuters](http://wtvr.com/2014/07/03/your-commute-could-get-even-worse/) will also likely spend more time sitting in traffic. So as the [Highway Trust Fund runs out of gas](http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/federal-highway-fund-risk-running-gas/), what is there to do? Rep. Blumenauer sat down with *The Washington Post* to [discuss his proposal to raise the gas tax and other options his state is pioneering](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2014/07/02/why-we-need-to-raise-the-gas-tax-and-then-get-rid-of-it/) to ensure a long-term, sustainable funding source. Every day Americans have a say too. After all, that is what the Declaration of Independence was affirming. Share your thoughts with those who represent you in Washington at [fixtheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/) before heading off to your barbeques and fireworks. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20POTUS%20Calls%20on%20Congress%20to%20Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Missourians Asked to Vote “Yes” on Sales and Use Tax Increase](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/missourians-asked-to-vote-yes-on-sales-and-use-tax-increase/) **Published:** July 8, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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5, Missourians go to the polls to weigh in on the future of the state’s transportation fund. Rather than enacting a temporary fix through an incremental gas tax hike, the Missouri Legislature put the matter in the hands of constituents in the form of [Constitutional Amendment 7](http://capwiz.com/asce/issues/alert/?alertid=63273346&type=CU&show_alert=1) which will appear on the August 5 ballot. If passed, the constitutional amendment will increase the sales and use tax three-quarters of one percent for a period of 10 years. This increase will establish a dedicated funding source not only for the state wide transportation system but, also county and city roads. With the exception of everyday expenses like, food, gas, utilities, or home and car payments, an additional three-quarter of one percent tax will be added to the existing state sales and use tax. In fact, during this 10-year period the state will be prohibited from raising the gas tax! It is estimated the proposed sales tax increase could lead to $5.4 billion over the lifetime of the tax — approximately $600 million of which will be diverted to county and city transportation projects. To put this into perspective, the Missouri DOT Long Range Transportation Plan estimates that over the next 20 years, Missouri has at least $70 billion of infrastructure projects requested throughout the state, but only $17.3 billion of available funds are expected to be available. A “yes” vote will ensure a reliable and sustainable source of revenue for the Missouri’s transportation fund. When August 5th arrives we ask that voters remember this: ✓ Money from the tax will only be spent on the improvement of roads, bridges, and other priority transportation projects in Missouri. ✓ 90% of the revenue will fund priority transportation projects, statewide, through the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). ✓ 5% will be given to counties and 5% given to cities for local transportation projects. ✓ All projects completed through MoDOT will be voted on by the Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission and completion will be constitutionally guaranteed. ✓ This sales tax will only apply to non-essential items, specifically exempted are: groceries, gas, utilities, mortgage and car payments, healthcare, prescription drugs, education, and retirement savings. ✓ Creating the tax through a constitutional amendment prevents future politicians from diverting funds to non-transportation spending. In anticipation of the additional funding, MoDOT has even updated its [project list](http://www.modot.org/movingforward/). Failure to increase the sales tax will mean status quo when it comes to Missouri’s transportation infrastructure. For this reason it is critical Missourians vote “yes” on Constitutional Amendment 7 and help lawmakers direct much needed funds toward maintaining, and improving, statewide transportation systems. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Missourians%20Asked%20to%20Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20on%20Sales%20and%20Use%20Tax%20Increase&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Missouri, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** ballot, economy, Missouri, state government, transportation, vote --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: House and Senate Plans](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-house-and-senate-plans/) **Published:** July 11, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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on the agenda. The Senate Finance Committee offers a [bipartisan proposal](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/11/us/highway-trust-fund.html?_r=0) by Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon and Sen. Orrin Hatch of Utah. The House Ways and Means Committee [marked up a bill Thursday morning](http://blogs.rollcall.com/218/house-eyes-highway-trust-fund-extension-vote-next-week/?dcz=), which is expected to be voted on by the full chamber next week. However, [either bill](http://blogs.rollcall.com/218/highway-trust-fund-gop-plan-default/?dcz=) would take some [reconciliation](http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2014/07/10/highway-funding-drive-hits-immediate-bumps/) to pass through the other chamber. More critically, [neither bill provides a long-term, sustainable funding solution](http://blogs.rollcall.com/hawkings/highway-trust-fund-politics-not-polic/?dcz=). These discussions take place with a backdrop of the DOT warning a [28 percent reimbursement cut for states](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/211441-foxx-states-will-face-28-percent-cut-if-road-fund-goes-bankrupt). “Slower and lower payments,” as Secretary Foxx warned, are [concerning states](http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2014/07/schumer_interstate_81_overhaul_could_be_delayed_by_gridlock_over_highway_trust_f.html) to varying degrees. While some states have contingency plans that will allow projects to continue, the [federal government’s role as a partner in transportation is crucial](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/the-fix/wp/2014/07/07/why-the-highway-trust-fund-is-running-out-of-money-in-5-graphs/). Vice President Biden echoed this belief on Wednesday, while among government and business officials, including several ASCE members, when he urged Congress to act, both to prevent a shortfall and toward a long-term bill. He noted that [historically transportation funding was a bipartisan issue](http://www.naplesnews.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-roadblocks-ahead_96094899) which [benefits everyone](http://theweek.com/article/index/264332/how-congress-can-create-jobs-reduce-uncertainty-and-repair-roads-in-one-fell-swoop). Congress is in session for a few more weeks before August recess. [Encourage your senators and representative](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/) to continue working toward a [long-term, sustainable solution ](http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2014/07/08/as-highway-funds-dwindle-industry-sees-bumpy-road-ahead)to [fix the Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) because investing in transportation [infrastructure ensures mobility](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/211476-reframing-infrastructure-its-really-mobility), a benefit to the economy. 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email")[![SS-chartruse](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/SS-chartruse.jpg)Aging buildings and energy costs are two of a school’s most concerning issues, but not for Warren County, Kentucky’s Richardsville Elementary School after a sustainable redesign that now has the school selling energy *back* to the grid. But it hasn’t always been this way. Until Richardsville Elementary School was rebuilt in 2010, classes were held in an obsolete 60-year-old building with dismal lighting and no handicapped access. Because of a local bipartisan initiative to use green building policies to provide cost savings, Richardsville was rebuilt to use only one-quarter the energy of an average school, tackling both issues of age and energy at once. The Warren County school system estimates that due to these policies focused on conserving energy in construction and operations, the savings exceeded $7 million, which was credited for avoiding teacher layoffs in a tough economy. Additionally, the school’s 2,700 rooftop solar panels produce enough power for the school district to actually sell electricity back to the grid, while geothermal pumps provide heating and cooling by using the earth’s underground temperature. Other technologies like lighting reflectors and motion sensors in rooms improve energy use throughout the school, and students and teachers are encouraged to understand and utilize the building in their learning and explain how renewable energy works and conservation really work. [Find more success stories from your state in the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home "Report Card - State") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Elementary%20School%20Has%20Energy%20to%20Sell%20Back%20to%20the%20Grid&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F05%2FSS-chartruse.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Elementary%20School%20Has%20Energy%20to%20Sell%20Back%20to%20the%20Grid "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Elementary%20School%20Has%20Energy%20to%20Sell%20Back%20to%20the%20Grid&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [ASCE Statement on the House Plan to Maintain the Highway Trust Fund for Only 9 More Months](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-house-plan-to-maintain-the-highway-trust-fund-for-only-9-more-months/) **Published:** July 15, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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Regrettably, their efforts also created a new, looming disaster next May. Punting on America’s infrastructure deficit will not fix the problem, and in fact will only create greater economic uncertainty. Congress needs to get serious about America’s future rather than creating more unnecessary turmoil. “America’s businesses, laborers, engineers, and manufacturers have been urging Congress for well over a year to find a long-term, sustainable solution to our country’s surface transportation issues. States and cities cannot plan for the future if funding is only going to be approved on a crisis by crisis basis. Imagine the challenges of building your home if you were unaware of where your money was coming from or when you could use it—that is the current case for America’s infrastructure. “The band-aid put on the Highway Trust Fund today ensures that we must limp along rather than take proactive steps to create a solid economic foundation. By maintaining current funding, we are solidifying funding levels that have given the [U.S. an infrastructure grade of D+ in ASCE’s Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). Does Congress not think America deserves better than a barely passing grade? “This moment is the best opportunity in a generation to solve America’s infrastructure deficit. Now is the time for a renewed investment in our nation’s infrastructure. We need bipartisan leadership from Congress and the White House to pass a long-term, reliable funding solution that will give states and cities the ability to plan for the future.” \### *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20House%20Plan%20to%20Maintain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20for%20Only%209%20More%20Months&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20House%20Plan%20to%20Maintain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20for%20Only%209%20More%20Months "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20House%20Plan%20to%20Maintain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20for%20Only%209%20More%20Months&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** ASCE, bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [5 Graphics Every Pennsylvania Driver Should See](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/5-graphics-every-pennsylvania-driver-should-see/) **Published:** July 17, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infographic1](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic1.png "Infrastructure Investment Wins Big at the Ballot Box")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic1.png) [![PA RC bridges infographic2](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic2.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic2.png) [![PA RC bridges infographic3](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic3.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic3.png) [![PA RC bridges infographic4](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic4.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic4.jpg) [![PA RC bridges infographic5](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic5-1024x634.png "2019 Puerto Rico Report Card Final")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PA-RC-bridges-infographic5.png) In 2013, Pennsylvania stepped up to start addressing these problems with a transportation funding package, but even with it, there’s still more work to be done than the funding that’s available. Also, if [Congress fails to come up with their promised funding by the end of August](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/ "Fix the Trust Fund"), this could set Pennsylvania back in spite of trying to catch up on their transportation needs. Pennsylvania has done their part, Congress should really get to work on theirs. Want to find out more about Pennsylvania’s other infrastructure? [Start with the 2014 Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure!](http://pareportcard.org/ "2014 PA Report Card") *Images created by Jason Forbes of [McCormick Taylor](http://www.mccormicktaylor.com/)* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=5%20Graphics%20Every%20Pennsylvania%20Driver%20Should%20See&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F07%2FPA-RC-bridges-infographic1.png&p%5Btitle%5D=5%20Graphics%20Every%20Pennsylvania%20Driver%20Should%20See "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=5%20Graphics%20Every%20Pennsylvania%20Driver%20Should%20See&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Pennsylvania, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, bridges, congress, Pennsylvania, report card --- ### [ASCE Statement on the Build America Investment Initiative](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-build-america-investment-initiative/) **Published:** July 17, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Build%20America%20Investment%20Initiative&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Build%20America%20Investment%20Initiative "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Build%20America%20Investment%20Initiative&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Washington, D.C. — The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president, ASCE on the Build America Investment Initiative: “Today’s action by President Obama to launch the *Build America Investment Initiative* comes at a critical time as we witness Congress still debating how to provide a long-term, sustainable solution to the federal Highway Trust Fund. While private sector financing can by no means replace public funding, states and localities urgently need all of the best tools available to provide transportation solutions for their communities. “The newly-created Build America Transportation Investment Center can play a vital role in sharing best public-private partnerships (P3s) practices and encouraging more states to utilize P3s to a greater degree, thereby creating a more robust U.S. market and attracting private sector investment in our nation’s transportation infrastructure. “ASCE looks forward to working with the Obama Administration to positively implement this action in the coming weeks and months. ASCE supports a comprehensive funding and financing program for operating, maintaining, and improving the nation’s transportation system, which includes P3s, infrastructure banks, bonding and other innovative financing mechanisms. If utilized appropriately, these financing mechanisms can help leverage available transportation funding and play an important role in delivering projects and managing assets effectively.” \### *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Build%20America%20Investment%20Initiative&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Build%20America%20Investment%20Initiative "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Tuesday, the House of Representatives [passed a short-term bill to keep the Highway Trust Fund up and running until May 2015](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/house-approves-highway-trust-fund-patch/). While Democrats were hesitant about the proposal, ultimately the bill passed with bipartisan support, 367-55. [In a statement](http://blogs.asce.org/asce-statement-on-the-house-plan-to-maintain-the-highway-trust-fund-for-only-9-more-months/) commenting on its passage, ASCE reiterated the need for a long-term, sustainable funding solution. A wide variety of groups urged Congress in a letter to “[avoid the immediate transportation cliff and improve the long-term fiscal condition of the Highway Trust Fund](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/htf_multi-industry_support_letter.pdf).”. The diverse list of co-signers, from the National Retail Federation to the civil rights organization NAACP, and ASCE to Smart Growth America, [underscores the potential detriment of inaction](http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/14/politics/5-things-highway-trust-fund/). Meanwhile, newspaper editorial boards continue to rally around the idea to increase the gas tax. Most notably this week [*The New York Times*](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/07/16/opinion/16wed1.html?_r=0) and [*Bloomberg*](http://www.bloombergview.com/articles/2014-07-16/enough-with-the-highway-spending-gimmicks) offered compelling arguments for raising the user fee to ensure it has the buying power of the 2014 dollar. Even comedian Jon Stewart of *The Daily Show* weighed in with his views on the [subject](http://thedailyshow.cc.com/videos/46mu9k/shabby-road). The White House also focused much of its week on infrastructure investment, releasing a report to support its [Rebuild America campaign](http://www.whitehouse.gov/rebuild-america). > Good infrastructure has a ripple effect: Job creation ✓ Less road congestion ✓ More reliable travel times ✓ [pic.twitter.com/dhzBo2Whfp](http://t.co/dhzBo2Whfp) > > — Vice President Biden (@VP) [July 15, 2014](https://twitter.com/VP/statuses/489074996883361792) On Thursday, President Obama visited Delaware’s I-495 bridge to announce the administration’s new [public-private partnership funding initiative](http://blogs.rollcall.com/the-container/public-private-partnerships-obama/?dcz=), the [Build America Transportation Investment Center](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/07/17/fact-sheet-building-21st-century-infrastructure-increasing-public-and-pr). This “one-stop shop” will [connect state and local governments with private financing options](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2014/07/17/obama-unveils-new-transportation-department-center-as-the-two-parties-spar-over-infrastructure/). This week the [media discussed the Highway Trust Fund frequently](https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&gl=us&tbm=nws&authuser=0&q=Highway+trust+Fund&oq=Highway+trust+Fund&gs_l=news-cc.3..43j0j43i53.3754.5748.0.5956.18.6.0.11.11.1.399.785.4j0j1j1.6.0...0.0...1ac.1.HdHfnVcaD-w), and the topic will likely remain in the headlines into next week as the Senate prepares to act on a program extension. Therefore, there is still much work to be doing to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). Join that effort by [contacting Congress](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/) now and encouraging long-term, sustainable legislation. 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We Know the Answer](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/is-our-infrastructure-making-the-grade-we-know-the-answer/) **Published:** July 22, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A few weeks ago, [a new report from CG/LA Infrastructure and Autodesk offered a six-point plan](http://static.autodesk.net/dc/content/dam/autodesk/www/campaigns/making-the-grade/bim-making-the-grade-report-en.pdf) to address the dismal D+ grade from our [2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). As Rep. John Delaney (D-MD) put it, “there are real economic costs associated with our infrastructure gridlock. This is a domestic emergency.” Throughout the new report, we see many parallels between the six recommendations and both the [Vision and Key Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/overview/key-solutions) offered in our Report Card: leadership at all levels of government, promoting sustainability and resilience, and making sure that we have comprehensive plans in place to make the best decisions on how to spend our limited dollars. Perhaps the most critical point between the two reports is that we need to view all of the recommendations through the lens of an interconnected infrastructure system. It’s not about choosing a sector to prioritize first – whether that be roads, water, or our energy grid. Unfortunately, our maze of agencies and jurisdictions that deal with infrastructure policy are most often set up that way. In order to keep the momentum going to raise the grades, we are going to have to embrace a holistic method of infrastructure planning that recognizes that the system is only as good as its weakest link. Our water treatment plans rely on vast quantities of energy. Our ports rely on reliable roads and railroad connections to move goods off the docks to your local store. We know that long-term planning, leadership, and innovation are the answers. We have examples of [cities and states that are tackling ambitious projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/state-facts/california) across our infrastructure modes, but we need more of this type of leadership. Only then will we have an infrastructure system ready to support a growing 21st-century economy. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Is%20Our%20Infrastructure%20Making%20the%20Grade%3F%20We%20Know%20the%20Answer&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, leadership, report card --- ### [How Your State Funds School Construction](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/how-your-state-funds-school-construction/) **Published:** July 24, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")[![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/image_13_schools-1024x1024.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/image_13_schools.jpg)In every community across the U.S. is a school building. They’re used for learning, libraries, sports, and feeding kids, but they’re also used for community meetings, school programs, and in emergencies. Each one of these schools is different, and so it’s probably not a surprise that they’re all funded differently. The Pennsylvania Department of Education recently put together a summary of how all the states fund their capital planning projects like new buildings and modernizations in their [Planning and Construction Workbook: A Report to the General Assembly. ](http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/http;//www.portal.state.pa.us;80/portal/server.pt/gateway/PTARGS_0_123531_1334610_0_0_18/PlanCon%20Report%20May%202013.pdf)Here is what they found: Alabama: The Alabama Department of Education provides annual grants to school districts. Alaska: The Alaska Department of Education and Early Development provides debt reimbursement and grant funding for individual projects. Arizona: The Arizona School Facilities Board, through use of the Building Renewal Fund, provides project level grants on a competitive basis for capital improvements to existing facilities. The state also provides formula driven grants for new construction. Arkansas: The Arkansas Division of Public School Academic Facilities and Transportation provides funds directly to local school districts for qualifying new construction, renovation, or alteration projects. California: The state distributes facility funding directly to the local school districts through matching grants and reimbursements for individual projects. Generally, funds are distributed on a first come, first served basis, based on eligibility for funding, as determined by projected unhoused students for new construction and age of facilities for modernization. Colorado: The Colorado Department of Education provides matching grants to local school districts on a competitive basis through the BEST program. The state’s minimum match is determined using several measures of school district wealth in comparison with statewide averages, as well as bond election effort and success over the past decade. Connecticut: The Connecticut Department of Education provides matching grants to local school districts, with the state share (between 20 and 80 percent) determined by relative district wealth ranking. Delaware: The Delaware Department of Education provides funding to local school districts for specific projects. The share of state support for public school facilities ranges from 60 to 80 percent and is determined by using an ability construction ratio that looks at the relative property wealth of a school district. D.C.: The District of Columbia provides the Office of Public Educational Facility Modernization (OPEFM) capital funds for building improvements to the schools within the District of Columbia’s Public School system. Florida: The Florida Department of Education provides monthly disbursements to local school districts based on available revenues, which are allocated by statutory formulas. (In January of 2012, Florida temporarily halted funding for all school construction projects due to lack of available resources. As a result of this decision, funding for projects was discontinued and schools and colleges were asked to return $250 million to the state until a solution could be identified and agreed upon.) Georgia: The Georgia Department of Education provides reimbursements to school districts for approved facility projects, with the state facility funding level set by formula in state law. Hawaii: The Hawaii Department of Education pays directly for local facility projects. Prioritization and state funding allocation is determined based on school building age and condition, as well as student demographics, building health and safety and maintenance needs. Idaho: The Idaho Department of Education provides local school districts with facility assistance in the form of bond repayment subsidies, allocations for maintenance and emergency funds. Illinois: The state provides grants to local schools districts for approved projects, with an automatic set‐aside of 20 percent of available state school construction funds allocated to Chicago Public Schools. The level of state funding depends upon district wealth and project type. Indiana: Indiana provides no funds for school district capital outlay. Iowa: The Iowa Department of Education provides grants to local school districts using a per pupil allocation formula. An equalization formula is used to distribute aid, with lower wealth school districts getting a higher share of state facility support. Kansas: The Kansas Department of Education provides funding to local school districts for individual approved projects through three funding streams: bond and interest aid, capital outlay aid and new facilities weighting. Kentucky: The Kentucky School Facilities Construction Commission provides annual appropriations to local school districts for facility funding through three primary funding sources. Louisiana: Louisiana provides no funding for school capital outlay projects. Maine: The Maine Department of Education provides reimbursements to local school districts for capital projects, with funding determinations made based on building condition. Maryland: Maryland provides direct payments to vendors and reimbursements to local school districts. Massachusetts: The Massachusetts School Building Authority provides matching reimbursement funds to cities, towns and regional school districts for individual projects. Project funding is determined based on building condition and overcrowding, with funds going to the neediest projects first. The state aid matching percentage varies depending on district wealth, with up to 80 percent of project costs covered for low‐wealth districts. Michigan: Michigan provides school districts with loans (which must be repaid) to assist in making debt service payment on their qualified bonds. Minnesota: The Minnesota Department of Education provides facility funding to local school districts through three primary mechanisms: Operating Capital Revenue as a component of the general education funding formula, Debt Service Equalization Aid and Maximum Effort School Aid loans. Mississippi: The Mississippi Department of Education provides funds to local school districts for approved projects with the amount determined by project type and square footage. Missouri: Missouri provides no funding to local school districts for capital projects. Montana: The Montana Office of Public Instruction pays local school districts’ debt service, with state funding dependent on district wealth. Nebraska: Nebraska provides no financial support to local school districts for capital outlay. Nevada: Nevada provides no funding to school districts or public charter schools for capital outlay. New Hampshire: New Hampshire provides reimbursements to school districts for approved capital projects. State funds are allocated based on community wealth equalization and the number of towns that utilize the school. New Jersey: The New Jersey Department of Education provides project‐level funding to Regular Operating Districts, while Abbott districts are managed by the state with funds paid directly to contractors. New Mexico: The New Mexico Public School Facilities Authority provides matching grants to local school districts for capital outlay as determined based on state‐established facility adequacy standards. The amount of the state match is based on district wealth. New York: The New York Department of Education provides school districts with reimbursements for specific projects with state funds allocated based on district wealth and need. North Carolina: The North Carolina Department of Public Infrastructure provides annual grants to school districts based on average daily membership and tax rate (higher tax rate qualifies for more state funds). North Dakota: North Dakota provides no regular funding for capital outlay, although recently there have been one‐time appropriations of grant funds to local school districts for capital improvements. Ohio: The Ohio School Facilities Commission provides matching grants to local school districts based on a legislative formula and rank of the district on the equity list. Oklahoma: Oklahoma provides no funding to school districts for capital outlay. Oregon: The Oregon Department of Education provides no funding to local school districts for capital outlay. However, the State Department of Energy has in the past provided $10 million annually for school energy conservation. Pennsylvania: The Pennsylvania Department of Education provides reimbursements to local school districts for approved school construction projects. Rhoda Island: The Rhode Island Department of Elementary and Secondary Education provide annual reimbursements to local school districts for approved capital projects. State facility funds are distributed first come, first served, based on need as determined by a community wealth index. South Carolina: The South Carolina Department of Education provides reimbursements to school districts for approved capital projects, with funding levels determined by a formula that considers need and economy of the school district. South Dakota: South Dakota provides no funding to local school districts for capital outlay. Tennessee: Tennessee provides annual capital funds to local school districts through a formula as part of the Basic Education Program (BEP) funds. Texas: The Texas Education Agency provides debt assistance to local school districts for capital projects through the Existing Debt Allotment (EDA) and Instructional Facilities Allotment (IFA) programs. State funds are allocated by statutory formula, with funding determinations made based on district wealth. Utah: Utah provides annual non‐matching grants to local school districts based on formula. Vermont: Vermont provides reimbursements to local school districts for approved projects. State reimbursement levels depend on project type. Virginia: Virginia provides no grants to counties and cities for their public school capital projects. However, the state does permit the local municipalities to use the state’s credit rating and it provides some school construction funds at subsidized interest rates to school districts that meet program criteria. Washington: Washington provides reimbursements to local school districts for approved projects. The level of state funding is determined by building condition and need for new space, with a funding formula based on maximum construction cost allocation. West Virginia: The state provides reimbursements directly to individual approved capital projects. The School Building Authority evaluates projects for funding using established criteria that includes health and safety, reasonable travel time, regional planning, adequate space for projected enrollment, history of efforts to pass local bond issues, regularly scheduled preventative maintenance, and efficient use of funds. Wisconsin: The state provides no facilities funding to local school districts. Wyoming: The Wyoming School Facilities Commission (SFC) provides non‐matching grants to local school districts for approved capital projects. Project funding is determined by combining scores from a facility condition assessment, educational functionality, and capacity to create a prioritized needs index that identifies the most critical projects across the state. The SFC pays the full cost of all projects it funds – no local match is required. 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"Share by email")This week, ASCE’s inaugural Shale Energy Engineering Conference was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It included three days of plenary panels, technical sessions and a visit from the Commonwealth’s Governor, Tom Corbett. In his remarks, Governor Corbett reminded the audience that 10 years ago the United States was an importer of natural gas, and today, those pipelines are literally being reserved- with Pennsylvania leading a movement to export gas abroad. Gov. Corbett went so far as saying the rapidly growing natural gas industry in the United States “can change the geopolitics of the world.” But the Governor also issued a stark warning that engineers must be stewards of the environment saying “we look to you to be the guardians of how to do it right.” ASCE President-Elect, Bob Stevens said the Conference allows for diverse stakeholders to come together and focus on “growing working relationships across the industry,” specifically pointing out that there were multiple organizations that create shale extraction standards presenting together, including the American Petroleum Institute and National Council of State Legislators. The Marcellus Shale Coalition estimates energy companies have invested more than $500 million on road upgrades in the region, proving that our infrastructure future cannot be solely focused on one sector over another. America’s energy future is in the hands of many, including civil engineers, and it is a responsibility Conference attendees showed that they relish. 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email")The [Senate will vote](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/213001-reid-highway-vote-likely-tomorrow-or-the-next-day) early next week on the House’s bill to [extend funding to the Highway Trust Fund](http://blogs.asce.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-the-house-approves-a-highway-trust-fund-patch/) until May. The upper chamber is poised to [debate and vote on the bill and four amendments to it](http://democrats.senate.gov/2014/07/23/agreement-on-highway-and-transportation-funding-act/#.U9FGmEDtLYg), including the [Carper-Corker-Boxer Amendment](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/politics/2014/07/23/carper-fights-lasting-highway-fund-solution/13074793/), which ASCE supports. If passed, the amendment would shorten the funding extension, thus requiring Congress to revisit the topic by December and make a [decision to pass a long-term, sustainable bill](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2014/07/21/highway-trust-fund-congress-roads-bridges-your-say/12972125/) for the Highway Trust Fund. This would shorten the length of uncertainty for states, and allow for better planning of transportation projects. Maryland’s Senators authored an op-ed on [the value in a multi-year transportation bill](http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/oped/bs-ed-transportation-funding-20140723,0,484137.story#ixzz38OIxjOGe), again detailing the benefit of longer term transportation funding laws. Vice President [Joe Biden tried his hand at the White House White Board video series](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/213155-biden-uses-white-board-to-push-for-highway-funding) to [explain once again](http://www.whitehouse.gov/rebuild-america) the [value in infrastructure investment.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iap8kpHRsA) While it [can often seem Congress](http://www.usnews.com/opinion/economic-intelligence/2014/07/23/congress-highway-trust-fund-plan-is-just-a-gimmick) is “[riding on four flat tires](http://blogs.post-gazette.com/news/the-roundabout/41946-u-s-transportation-system-on-unsustainable-course),” as the *Pittsburgh Post-Gazette* says, there was an encouraging announcement from another part of the federal government, The Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced [$10 billion in private funding for rural infrastructure investment](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/white-house-announces-10b-fund-for-rural-infrastructure/). Next week’s Senate actions will provide clearer next steps in the quest for a long-term, sustainable bill to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20All%20eyes%20are%20on%20the%20Senate%E2%80%A6%20for%20next%20week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, White House --- ### [ASCE Statement on the Senate Passage of H.R. 5021 to Sustain the Highway Trust Fund until December](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-statement-on-the-senate-passage-of-h-r-5021-to-sustain-the-highway-trust-fund-until-december/) **Published:** July 29, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20Passage%20of%20H.R.%205021%20to%20Sustain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20until%20December&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Washington, D.C.** —The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) Over, P.E., President of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on the passage of H.R. 5021 in the U.S. Senate: “This evening, the United States Senate assured that road, bridge, and transit projects, along with countless American jobs, will be preserved until at least December 2014. We also congratulate the bipartisan majority of Senators who helped pass the [Carper-Corker-Boxer amendment.](http://crfb.org/blogs/carper-corker-boxer-amendment-gimmick-free-highway-funding-patch) This amendment will help our economy and put us on a path to actually fixing the Highway Trust Fund this year. “The Senate made a number of smart choices today. By rejecting Senator Lee’s ‘devolution’ amendment, a bipartisan Senate strongly reaffirmed the federal government’s role in America’s transportation future. We know that we cannot build a modern infrastructure system capable of meeting the demands of a 21st century economy without a national vision, and we are pleased to see so many Senators feel the same. “It is now up to the House to act and immediately pass the Senate bill. For some time now, the American Society of Civil Engineers has been urging Congress to [\#FixTheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fixthetrustfund&src=tyah). Through social media, blogs, videos, press interviews, and even a website—[www.fixthetrustfund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/)—the key word the entire time has been ‘fix.’ Today, the Senate decided that they want to fix the Trust Fund in 2014. “Americans are tired of seeing Congress hem and haw when it comes to making tough choices. Our nation’s infrastructure deficit is not going away until our leaders find the courage to address America’s changing needs. Infrastructure is the backbone of our national economy, and by moving from stop-gap to stop-gap, Congress is only injecting greater uncertainty into an already fragile economic recovery. The time to fix the Highway Trust Fund is now. “Congress and the White House, Republicans and Democrats, all must come together to find a real solution to the Highway Trust Fund over the next five months. If we truly want to fix the Trust Fund, we need vision and leadership that is capable of looking beyond partisan divides and instead look for answers for renewed investment in America’s future.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit [www.asce.org](http://www.asce.org/)* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20Passage%20of%20H.R.%205021%20to%20Sustain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20until%20December&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Statement%20on%20the%20Senate%20Passage%20of%20H.R.%205021%20to%20Sustain%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20until%20December "Share on 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transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Action Packed](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-action-packed/) **Published:** August 1, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Between the [water main break on UCLA’s campus](http://www.nbcnews.com/watch/nightly-news/water-main-break-floods-ucla-campus-313715267988), the two [Senate](http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-07-29/senate-approves-11-billion-plan-for-highway-trust-fund.html) votes, and [House](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/213964-house-rejects-senate-transportation-bill) vote to patch the Highway Trust Fund, the high cost of the [failure to act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) was obvious this week. [D+ infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), the overall grade in ASCE’s 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, is in part because of the aging pipes, roads, bridges, and train tracks in the United States. The way to improve the grades is to invest, which would include repairing and [replacing infrastructure that has reached the end of its useful life](http://www.knoe.com/story/26146869/century-old-pipe-break-points-to-national-problem). The [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/whats-the-problem/) is a crucial funding mechanism in raising the grades of roads, bridges and transit. States depend on the federal government to be a partner in funding transportation projects, and unfortunately the long-term status of the Highway Trust Fund is still uncertain. Last week, the House approved a bill that would provide funding to the Highway Trust Fund until May. This week Tuesday, the [Senate passed a similar bill](http://washingtonexaminer.com/what-you-should-know-about-the-federal-highway-bill/article/2551475), with one crucial difference: the funding would last until December, thus ensuring that Congress would be required to revisit the Highway Trust Fund before the close of the year, and hopefully pass a long-term bill with sustainable funding. Because the two bills were at odds, the House then revisited the legislation on Thursday and voted to remain with the original bill it passed last week. Later that day, the [Senate passed the House’s original bill](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/08/01/us/senate-approves-veterans-health-care-bill.html?_r=0), averting the USDOT’s slowing its payments to states, and the[ bill will now be sent to the White House for the President’s signature](http://www.politico.com/story/2014/07/senate-clears-highways-transit-patch-punting-the-issue-until-may-109620.html). The bill provides a patch that will sustain the Highway Trust Fund through May. However Congress still has not passed legislation that includes a long-term, sustainable funding solution. [Without this](http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2014/jul/27/how-fight-congress-could-hurt-nevadas-economy/), [state DOTs will have difficulty moving forward on projects](http://www.svherald.com/content/submitted/2014/07/26/384689), and [Congress will still be focused on averting funding crises](http://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-politics-leave-highway-trust-fund-running-on-empty/article_935c223d-5243-54b6-954c-59f8fe2d957e.html), rather than ensuring opportunity for long-term growth through surface transportation projects. Behind every improvement of a Report Card grade and every filled in pothole, there is economic growth and improved commutes. Ultimately that is what this debate is about: improving Americans’ quality of life. While your Congressional members are back home during August recess, take the opportunity to [visit or attend a local town hall](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/), and ask your elected lawmakers to [\#fixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/). [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Action%20Packed&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, Drinking Water, highway trust fund --- ### [Statement on the Congressional Passage of the 10 Month Patch to the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/statement-on-the-congressional-passage-of-the-10-month-patch-to-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** August 1, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Statement%20on%20the%20Congressional%20Passage%20of%20the%2010%20Month%20Patch%20to%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Washington, D.C.** —The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) Over, P.E., President of The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on the passage of short-term funding to the federal Highway Trust Fund.: “We thank Congress for passing the short-term patch to the Highway Trust Fund. This legislation will protect thousands of jobs and avert an economic calamity for a few more months. While this legislation is certainly better than nothing, all it actually does is reset the countdown clock for May 2015. “ASCE urges Congress to return from the August recess ready to find real solutions to fix the Highway Trust Fund. There is adequate time before Congress adjourns in 2014 to identify long-term, sustainable funding sources for the nation’s surface transportation program. We shouldn’t wait until May 2015 to solve America’s infrastructure problems.” *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. For more information, visit* [*www.asce.org*](http://www.asce.org/)*.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Statement%20on%20the%20Congressional%20Passage%20of%20the%2010%20Month%20Patch%20to%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Statement%20on%20the%20Congressional%20Passage%20of%20the%2010%20Month%20Patch%20to%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Statement%20on%20the%20Congressional%20Passage%20of%20the%2010%20Month%20Patch%20to%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, transportation --- ### [Missourians Reject Sales Tax for Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/missourians-reject-sales-tax-for-infrastructure/) **Published:** August 6, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure fund from revenue earned through three-quarters of a cent sales tax increase. Constitutional Amendment 7 was dismissed in a 59% to 41% vote. “We are very disappointed in the result, but the people have spoken and we respect that.” Stephen Miller, chairman of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission, commented. “As we have seen for the past several years, I think Missourians have a clear understanding that more resources need to be invested in our transportation infrastructure, but there just isn’t any consensus on how to pay for it. We need to continue working toward that end.” The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) Long Range Transportation Plan estimates that over the next 20 years, Missouri has at least $70 billion of infrastructure projects requested throughout the state, but only $17.3 billion of available funds are expected to be available. Had the measure passed it would have made an estimated $5.4 billion available over the next 10 years for state and local transportation projects. In fact, in July MoDOT release a list of “priority projects” that would have received funding with the revenue generated by the tax increase. The future of this list remains to be seen. Dave Nichols, director of the Missouri Department of Transportation, “We will continue our focus on safety, maintaining our roads and bridges, and providing outstanding customer service with the resources we have.” If Missourians wish to “raise the grade” on roads and bridges, adequate revenue must be collected and allocated to maintain and improve the state’s transportation infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Missourians%20Reject%20Sales%20Tax%20for%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Missouri, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Funding, infrastructure investment, Missouri, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Get Noisier!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-get-noisier/) **Published:** August 8, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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the Highway Trust Fund last week, Transportation Secretary Foxx asked Americans to “[get a little noisier](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/214523-dot-chief-wants-noisier-transportation-funding-debate-during-recess)” on the issue. You can take Sec. Foxx up on his request at [FixtheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/take-action/). Newspapers across the country featured articles, op-eds, and letters to the editor voicing concerns about [Congress’ punt last week and encouraging action](http://www.kyforward.com/our-town-square/2014/08/tom-block-house-and-senate-approved-short-term-funding-of-highway-trust-fund/) for a [long-term, sustainable solution](http://www.theherald-news.com/2014/08/06/another-view-highway-robbery-congress-passes-another-short-term-fix-to-fund-road-projects/awhsa13/?page=1). There are plenty of good reasons and sound arguments to share when discussing the [value](http://www.bloombergview.com/articles/2014-08-03/congress-we-know-what-you-did-this-summer-nothing) in a fix to the Highway Trust Fund. [Instead of short-term gimmicks](http://www.syracuse.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/08/congress_should_raise_the_gas_tax_to_replenish_the_highway_trust_fund_editorial.html), there [is growing support for an increased gas tax](http://onlineathens.com/local-news/2014-08-05/increased-gas-tax-could-improve-state-infrastructure-officials-say) because of the [value it would create](https://bangordailynews.com/2014/08/04/opinion/editorials/what-if-congress-set-an-example-for-maine-solved-the-nations-highway-funding-problem/) through [investment in roads and bridges](http://www.thehour.com/opinion/letters/infrastructure-priorities-key-to-our-economic-future/article_ec39ba54-7fad-5f60-9b18-68b4fc6f0399.html). A Highway Trust Fund that has adequate funds ensures that state DOTs can plan projects and leads to modern and innovative infrastructure. Northeastern University researchers [shared technology that would help eradicate potholes](http://www.fastcoexist.com/3033500/fast-cities/the-end-of-potholes). Ideas like this one are a great example of where infrastructure is heading, and a [healthy Highway Trust Fund](http://flatheadbeacon.com/2014/08/07/short-term-fix-highway-trust-fund/) makes those innovations all the more likely. [Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/roads/overview) and [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/bridges/overview) are not the only infrastructure sectors that are crying out for investment either, as evident from the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure’s* [D+ GPA across 16 sectors](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home). In the past week, the need for investment in the drinking water and wastewater sectors has been particularly apparent because of the [water main break at UCLA](http://www.usnews.com/news/us/articles/2014/08/05/pipe-break-that-flooded-ucla-tied-to-corrosion) in California and the [unsafe drinking water in the Toledo, Ohio area](http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2014-08-03/ohios-4th-largest-city-has-no-drinking-water). Infrastructure works as an interconnected system, making investment in every sector critical for the others as well. While your elected lawmakers are back home during August recess, take the time to “get noisy” and [engage with them](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Back-Home-Visits-Materials/) about the value in infrastructure investment. When the “noise” is a [dialogue armed with economic stats](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/), it can create a compelling argument to [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23fixthetrustfund) and invest in all sectors of infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Get%20Noisier%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, gas tax, highway trust fund, water infrastructure --- ### [Harnessing the Natural Process for Clean Water in Colorado](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/harnessing-the-natural-process-for-clean-water-in-colorado/) **Published:** August 20, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Water](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Aurora-Water.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Aurora-Water.png) **Let’s Envision the Infrastructure for Tomorrow** America’s infrastructure needs a national commitment to bring existing infrastructure into a state-of-good-repair, and in the long term we must modernize and build in a targeted and strategic manner. This means leadership at the federal, state, and local levels of government, by businesses and individuals, to communicate the importance of our nation’s infrastructure, to craft innovative solutions that reflect the diverse needs of the nation, and to make the investments the system needs. By employing strategies to use every dollar more efficiently and by deploying creative solutions to infrastructure development such as public–private partnerships, we can implement the right projects on time at the right price. Below is a brief success story that shows how we can do this effectively. **Water Success Story: Harnessing the Natural Process for Clean Water** During 2003, the city of Aurora, Colorado, was months from needing to ration water to maintain a dwindling supply decimated by a severe drought. With a municipal water system serving 300,000 people on the brink of collapse, city leaders developed the Prairie Waters Project to ensure that it was capturing all the water the city currently owns in wells near the South Platte River’s bank for use by Aurora residents. The water collected is piped 34 miles to a new purification facility near the Aurora Reservoir that combines natural purification with advanced engineering solutions. The facility is designed to work in conjunction with the project’s natural purification area, where water percolates with the natural sand and gravel found along the river. Because this process purifies the water naturally, there is no waste that must be discharged back into the river, and it greatly reduces the demand on more energy-intensive filtration. Colorado’s volatile water market makes purchasing additional water resources time-consuming and expensive. Not only is the project cost-effective through developing already owned water resources, but other design and operation features work together to maximize the use of city funds. The Prairie Waters Project delivers water to the city fast and on time, and uses water from the South Platte River, which will be available even when other supplies are low. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Harnessing%20the%20Natural%20Process%20for%20Clean%20Water%20in%20Colorado&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Colorado, Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Colorado, drought, energy, infrastructure, Prairie Waters Projec, purification, water --- ### [The Highway Trust Fund Deserves More Than a Patch](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-highway-trust-fund-deserves-more-than-a-patch/) **Published:** August 25, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Fund](http://blogs.asce.org/highway-trust-fund-101-what-you-need-to-know/) seems to have waned since Congress passed a 10-month funding patch in July. However, [May will be here before we know it.](http://ipadstopwatch.com/countdown-clock-embed-full-screen.html#date=1433044800000&title=The+Trust+Fund+Runs+Out+In&msg=Countdown+not+set) There is still more work to be done to keep transportation projects across the country funded and our elected leaders need to start having real discussions about long-term sustainable revenue sources now. In the 2013 [*Infrastructure Report Card,*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) roads received a grade of D, bridges a C+, and transit a D grade. Without long-term investments, America’s transportation systems will continue to limp along with patchwork repairs. ASCE Managing Director of Government Relations, Brian Pallasch, spoke to Bloomberg BNA reporter Heather Caygle as part of the Eye on the Hill series about the state of America’s transportation infrastructure. [Watch the interview here](http://www.bna.com/eye-hill-asces-v17179894055/) to learn more about the importance of infrastructure investment and the need to [\#FixTheTrustFund.](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Deserves%20More%20Than%20a%20Patch&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Deserves%20More%20Than%20a%20Patch "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Deserves%20More%20Than%20a%20Patch&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund --- ### [ASCE Members Advise Federal Government on Water Information Programs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-members-advise-federal-government-on-water-information-programs/) **Published:** September 2, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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D.WRE, and Robert Schreiber, P.E., BCEE, D.WRE participated in [the Advisory Committee on Water Information](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20140822-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=19336&elq=cdac13dd31e249878696903d3a704c0b "The Advisory Committee on Water Information") (ACWI) annual meeting last month in Reston, Virginia. The advisory committee’s mission is to improve water information for decision making for natural resources management and environmental protection. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is the primary federal agency charged with overseeing the committee. Anne Castle, [Assistant Secretary for Water and Science](https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CB4QFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.doi.gov%2Fwhoweare%2Fannecastle.cfm&ei=4tr9U472Fs_4yQT614DgDQ&usg=AFQjCNEZPMUBAIH7qdUxZ-Bv5U2ZT3VzTg&sig2=0ZQ_SWXYFxCPcB7LvPLTYg&bvm=bv.74035653,d.aWw) at USGS, challenged the committee last week to begin focusing on building out a new project called the [Open Water Data Initiative](http://acwi.gov/acwi-minutes/acwi2014/Open_water_data_proposal_to_acwi-7-21-14.pdf) (OWDI). The initiative seeks to compile water metadata into to a central database that is open to the public. Currently, water data is collected using various standards and is often stored on a specific project website, in a state database or withheld by a single agency. The hope is OWDI will standardize the collection practice and make the data open and easy to access through the central database. The OWDI is one of several open data initiatives currently being pursued by the Administration. In May 2013, President Obama signed [Executive Order 13642](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2013/05/09/executive-order-making-open-and-machine-readable-new-default-government-) “Making Open and Machine Readable the New Default for Government Information” to increase public accessibility to scientific data collected by the federal government. OWDI is modeled after the Open Climate Initiative. ASCE will continue to support important open government initiatives, particularly those that increase the public’s ability to access scientific data. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Advise%20Federal%20Government%20on%20Water%20Information%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** science, USGS, water, Water Resources --- ### [Join the #WaterWorks Thunderclap to Show Your Support for Water Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/join-the-waterworks-thunderclap-to-show-your-support-for-water-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** September 3, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Yet, in the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, drinking water and wastewater both received D grades. On Wednesday, Sept. 10, ASCE will join other water leaders as part of the Value of Water Coalition to share the importance of water with White House and Congressional leaders. If you’re not here in DC, you can still show your support and let Congress know that water should be their priority. Consider joining our Thunderclap on social media – you just need to sign up by next Monday. Thunderclap is a tool that lets a message be heard when we all say it together. When you join the [**\#WaterWorks**](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23waterworks&src=typd) Thunderclap, you and fellow supporters will share the exact same message at the exact same time, spreading an idea across Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr that cannot be ignored. The goal is to trend in social media. By joining, you’re allowing Thunderclap to share a single message on your behalf. This is only the case when you click the red button on the campaign page to support with Twitter, Facebook, or Tumblr. After the campaign is complete, Thunderclap won’t post any additional messages. Visit [here ](https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/15381-waterworks-for-jobs-economy?locale=en)to help the Value of Water Coalition meet its goal and spread the message through [Thunderclap on Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr.](https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/15381-waterworks-for-jobs-economy?locale=en) The message in the blue box is what will appear on your own social media pages. Just click the red boxes to share the message. It will automatically go out on September 9, 2014 at 12:00pm EST. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Join%20the%20%23WaterWorks%20Thunderclap%20to%20Show%20Your%20Support%20for%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** Drinking Water, thunderclap, wastewater, water, Water Resources, Water Works --- ### [Summer Travel Boom as Americans Hit the Road](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/summer-travel-boom-as-americans-hit-the-road/) **Published:** September 5, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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snowiest winter on record, it appears based upon latest [data](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/travel_monitoring/14juntvt/14juntvt.pdf) from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) that Americans traveled on our roadways in force this spring and early summer. Vehicle miles traveled (VMT), a common measure of roadway use, hit its highest level in six years between July 2013 and June 2014. The first half of 2014 saw the fourth-highest mileage number ever since the FHWA first began collecting VMT information nearly eight decades ago. While dipping VMT has had its benefits for [transit ridership](http://www.apta.com/mediacenter/pressreleases/2014/Pages/140310_Ridership.aspx) and environmental air quality, the uptick is particularly good news for the [ailing](http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43884-2014-08-HighwayTrustFund.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-20140829-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF), which provides state and local governments with money for transportation. A decrease in VMT during the end of 2007 following the Great Recession came at a [time](http://www.cbo.gov/publication/45416) when highway and transit spending was exceeding revenues in the HTF. Since 2010, as the economy has [improved](http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2014/08/28/second-estimate-gdp-second-quarter-2014), VMT has been slowly inching upward. However, this latest FHWA data suggests that VMT and the gasoline taxes that are collected remains a viable way to generate user fees for the HTF to dedicate towards transportation improvements. The real problem appears to be the annual [decrease](http://www.transportationissuesdaily.com/the-culprits-in-eroding-the-federal-gas-tax-purchasing-power-in-1-slide/decline-of-gas-tax-purchasing-power/#!prettyPhoto) in purchasing power of user fees as a result of Congress’ [inability](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/214535-biden-rips-congress-for-short-term-highway-bill) to raise rates in order to maintain necessary federal investments in infrastructure. Congress should be encouraged by this latest report on the health of American mobility and use it as an opportunity to [\#FixTheTrustFund.](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Summer%20Travel%20Boom%20as%20Americans%20Hit%20the%20Road&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Summer%20Travel%20Boom%20as%20Americans%20Hit%20the%20Road "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Coast Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers. [**The Report Card gave the County’s roads a grade of D+ grade and bridges received a grade of C-.**](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/ASCE-Humboldt-County-CA-Report-Card-FINAL1.pdf "2014 Humboldt Report Card") According to the new report, Humboldt County’s locally owned roads and bridges need five times the current investment simply to maintain their current condition. “The grades are disappointing, but not surprising to Humboldt County’s citizens who drive these roads and bridges,” said Yoash Tilles, president, ASCE North Coast Branch. “This impacts our community’s economy, safety and daily life. It is time to make the investment to improve our transportation infrastructure.” Among the key findings of the report: - The Tribes, Cities and the County need five times its current funding to maintain the locally-operated roads and bridges at their current condition. - In Humboldt County, the average condition of roads is assessed as mediocre. - The locally-owned 170 bridges within Humboldt County received the average rating of mediocre. - The number of lives lost in car accidents in Humboldt County is approximately double the state rate according to the California Highway Safety Plan for 2014. - To improve roads and bridges, $426 million must be invested over the next 10 years. “The Report Card for Humboldt County’s locally owned transportation infrastructure gives us a benchmark for where we are at, and a path forward for where we need to go,” said Tom Mattson, director, Humboldt County Public Works. “The County is dedicated to continually improving the quality of life for residents and strengthening the local economy.” “Transportation infrastructure is crucial, as it is a lifeline to the rest of the state during a disaster,” said R.C. Doby Class, director, City of Arcata Public Works. “Isolation of the county makes resiliency and redundancy essential components for residents’ safety.” “The tribes who live in Humboldt County depend on quality transportation infrastructure,” said Sandi Tripp, director, Karuk Tribe Department of Transportation. “The average grades demonstrate more must be done to keep our community safe and thriving.” A team of 37 volunteers, including civil engineers, representatives from the Karuk, Hoopa, Yurok tribes, Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria, and public and private transportation experts from the City of Arcata, City of Fortuna, City of Arcata, City of Blue Lake, City of Trinidad, and the County, and Humboldt State University Environmental Resources Engineering students analyzed public records over the past year to complete the Report Card. The ASCE North Coast Branch intends to release reports grading additional infrastructure sectors in the future. **[Get the 2014 ASCE Report Card for Humboldt County’s Infrastructure here. ](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/ASCE-Humboldt-County-CA-Report-Card-FINAL1.pdf)** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[WRRDA ](http://blogs.asce.org/asce-commends-u-s-senate-and-house-of-representatives-on-passage-of-water-resources-reform-and-development-act/)makes a number of changes to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program administered by EPA and recently developed guidance for its regional offices on how to implement the new provisions. One of the major changes is that all architectural/engineering (A/E) contracts under the CWSFR must now comply with federal or state-approved Qualifications-Based Standards (QBS). ASCE has advocated for QBS provisions to apply to the SRF program for over a decade and applauds the new WRRDA language. QBS provisions ensure the government and citizens who rely on critical infrastructure receive the best possible A/E services based on competence, qualification, background and track record of competing firms, subject to negotiation of a fee that is fair and reasonable. QBS procedures were originally established by the Brooks Architect-Engineers Act of 1972. Our three comments to EPA were straight forward: - Follow the letter of the law and ensure that A/E contracts under the CWSRF are backed by federal or state approved QBS provisions. - Ensure firms are ranked based first on qualification. Cost must be negotiated during the second step of the procurement process. - Require all projects co-mingled with SRF funds to also be subject to QBS provisions. If you would like to see ASCE’s full letter to the EPA, [click here](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Government_Relations/Testimony_and_Correspondence/ASCE%20letter%20to%20EPA%20on%20QBS%20for%20WRRDA14%281%29.pdf). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Participate%20in%20White%20House%20Summit%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")As a part of what the White House has deemed its “[Year of Action](http://www.whitehouse.gov/year-of-action)” campaign to move policy ideas and initiatives forward in the face of Congressional gridlock, the Obama Administration recently held an [Infrastructure Investment Summit ](http://treas.yorkcast.com/webcast/Catalog/Full/24be9752034f414495be3f87736ee8f821)aimed at soliciting ideas on how to better leverage available financing to deliver projects in the transportation, water, telecommunications and energy sectors. Participants included cabinet secretaries from the departments of Treasury, Transportation and Commerce as well as leaders from industry, finance, philanthropy and state and local government. Two ASCE members, Anthony Bartolomeo, P.E., F.ASCE who is chairman of the Society’s [Industry Leaders Council](http://www.asce.org/Industry-Leaders-Council-(ILC)/About-the-Industry-Leaders-Council/) and Robert Victor, P.E., F.ASCE who chairs ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure which produced the Society’s national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ "Infrastructure Report Card"), participated in the day-long summit with Bartolomeo moderating a small breakout session with Treasury Secretary Jack Lew and Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx in attendance. The goal of the meeting was to identify barriers to accelerating private investment in the US infrastructure network and develop strategies to further deploy the billions of domestic and foreign dollars currently sitting on the sidelines. The summit will inform an interagency report on the topic which is due for delivery to President Obama on November 14, 2014. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/admin-financing-300x217.jpg)](http://www.treasury.gov/press-center/press-releases/Documents/Expanding%20our%20Nation%27s%20Infrastructure%20through%20Innovative%20Financing.pdf "US Treasury report on infrastructure financing") Using the summit as a platform for announcement, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) [declared](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/217097-dot-announces-950m-loan-to-fla-highway-project) a $950 million TIFIA loan would be provided for the Orlando, Florida Interstate 4 highway project, which signifies the biggest TIFIA loan to date for a public private partnership (P3). USDOT also announced that it had cleared efforts by Pennsylvania DOT to utilize a $1.2 billion private activity bond allocation to replace more than 500 small bridges within a P3 arrangement. USDOT has recently launched the Build America Transportation Investment Center which released at the summit model P3 contract provisions in order to better assist project sponsors with the guidance and technical assistance necessary to complete highway toll concession arrangements. The topic of P3s is certain to receive further attention in the weeks ahead as the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure is [slated](http://transport.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=367010) to release a bipartisan report on the topic which will inform their work on accelerating private sector investment in infrastructure. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Participate%20in%20White%20House%20Summit%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** financing, infrastructure, Obama Administration, transportation --- ### [Investment in Water Infrastructure Works](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/investment-in-water-infrastructure-works/) **Published:** September 12, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Lately, there have been several events drawing attention to the water sector’s significance, including the [water main break at UCLA](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/07/29/water-main-break-ucla/13342473/), [algae in Toledo drinking water](http://www.cleveland.com/nation/index.ssf/2014/09/toledo_water_woes_stir_call_fo.html), and [drought in California](http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/california-drought/california-drought-could-claim-quarter-rice-crop-n200326). Water infrastructure deserves our attention and investment for many reasons, beyond the most recent media attention. This week, ASCE co-hosted Water Works!, a day of events highlighting the economic value in the water sector. The legislative day in Washington, D.C. included the release of a report, which emphasizes the economic impact of water, wastewater and storm water utilities. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/photo1-225x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/photo1.jpg)Rep Bob Gibbs Mayor Kevin Faulconer and Sen Ben Cardin sharing their thoughts on the importance of water infrastructure for our economy The report, [*National Economic & Labor Impacts of the Water Utility Sector*](http://waterworkscampaign.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/National-Economic-Labor-Impacts-Water-Utility-Exec-Report.pdf), reveals the sector supports $524 billion in economic activity. Furthermore, in the next decade the utilities will include 289,000 jobs. Congressional leaders and public officials shared their thoughts on the importance of investment in infrastructure during a press briefing, which emphasized the bipartisan agreement of water infrastructure investment. “Water infrastructure is a priority we cannot allow to remain unaddressed,” remarked Rep. Tim Bishop, Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Water Resources and the Environment, as a call to action to “build on the accomplishments of WRRDA.” The importance of the water sector was underscored in Sen. Ben Cardin’s comments, as he pointed to the sector’s role in public safety and job growth. Rep. Bob Gibbs, Chair of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and the Environment echoed those sentiments, and noted that the aging infrastructure is costing us millions of dollars as valuable water is being lost each day through leaky pipes and breaks. Following the press briefing, a panel of local water leaders shared their water infrastructure investment success stories. The conversation centered around ensuring safe, reliable and affordable water. Wednesday’s events showcase the continuous effort and conversation surrounding improving the nation’s [D grade water infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/drinking-water/overview). You can get involved and increase the ripple effect by [learning more about the report](https://event.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1042867&sti=vow) and utilizing the data to showcase the economic benefits of water infrastructure investment. As Mayor Kevin Faulconer of San Diego said at the event, “There is no better time to invest.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Works&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F09%2Fphoto1-225x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Works "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Investment%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Works&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economy, jobs, Water Works, wrrda --- ### [ASCE Applauds U.S. House T&I Committee’s Bipartisan Report on Public-Private Partnership](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-applauds-u-s-house-ti-committees-bipartisan-report-on-public-private-partnership/) **Published:** September 17, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20House%20T%26I%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Bipartisan%20Report%20on%20Public-Private%20Partnership&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) regarding the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s special panel report, *[Public-Private Partnerships: Balancing the Needs of the Public and Private Sectors to Finance the Nation’s Infrastructure](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/p3_panel_report.pdf),* on the use of Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) to improve the nation’s infrastructure: “Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) are a valuable form of financing for infrastructure projects. They have proven effective in projects across multiple sectors of infrastructure, as evident in the report released today. Similar to last week’s Infrastructure Investment Summit hosted by the Obama Administration, which ASCE members attended, bipartisan conversations like this one are crucial in ensuring we are leveraging all the potential dollars available to modernize our nation’s infrastructure. This special panel’s efforts indicate strides are being made in the dialogue. “ASCE agrees with the report’s assessment that P3s are not the silver bullet to address our nation’s infrastructure investment deficit. The nation needs a boost in traditional funding, as well. In the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, our nation received a D+ GPA. That grade indicates we have a large investment need; one that requires leadership on all levels on government. The U.S. Congress must continue to strive for sustainable, long-term funding sources to improve and maintain our infrastructure. It should begin by addressing the Highway Trust Fund’s insolvency before the end of this year. By doing so, Congress will shorten the uncertainty for states as they plan transportation projects.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20House%20T%26I%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Bipartisan%20Report%20on%20Public-Private%20Partnership&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20House%20T%26I%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Bipartisan%20Report%20on%20Public-Private%20Partnership "Share on 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on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Applauds%20U.S.%20House%20T%26I%20Committee%E2%80%99s%20Bipartisan%20Report%20on%20Public-Private%20Partnership&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, P3s --- ### [State Legislators Invited to Dream Big!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/csg-invited-to-dream-big/) **Published:** September 23, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[Council of State Governments](http://www.csg.org/index.aspx) (CSG) Transportation Policy Academy. ASCE has been a regular sponsor of these forums that bring state legislative leaders together to discuss transportation issues and the challenges they are facing in their respective states. In addition to a presentation on the 2013 [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), the event also featured a luncheon presentation on plans for an IMAX movie *Dream Big!*, which ASCE and the ASCE Foundation are pursuing to put engineering dramatically in the public eye. Lawmakers from Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont and Washington were in attendance. [![CSG-roof](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/CSG-roof-300x225.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/CSG-roof.jpg)State Legislators visit ASCEs Washington office during the recent CSG Policy Academy L R Rep Curtis King R Washington Rep Patricia Higgins D New Hampshire Rep Jay Roberts R Georgia Sen Mike Vehle R South Dakota Rep Diane Lanpher D Vermont Rep Ryan Yamane D Hawaii Sen Ernie Harris R Kentucky Sen Jim Smith NP Nebraska Rep William Brawley R North CarolinaCSG regularly brings state legislators who are transportation policy leaders in their states together to tackle key issues. Participants toured transportation megaprojects in Northern Virginia including newly opened stations on the silver line of the Metro. Other participants and speakers in the meeting included the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Trucking Association, Center for American Progress, Heritage Foundation, Bipartisan Policy Center, Maryland Department of Transportation, Virginia Department of Transportation, and Transportation for America. Over the past couple years, state legislators and Governors have taken the lead on addressing the need for transportation financing with several states passing major initiatives since 2012. 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Legislators%20Invited%20to%20Dream%20Big%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** CSG, dream big, state government, transportation --- ### [Advocate Profile: Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., M.ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-marsia-geldert-murphey-p-e-m-asce/) **Published:** September 24, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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*Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., M. ASCE is the incoming chair of ASCE’s Public Policy Committee. As president and CEO of Sequoia Engineering & Environmental, Inc. she is responsible for overall management, development and growth of firm specializing in geotechnical engineering, environmental documentation & permitting, construction engineering and public involvement.* *If you are interested in becoming involved in ASCE’s Key Contact program and promoting the profession through advocacy, you can* [*learn more information and sign up at asce.org*](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/)*.* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** Many years ago at an ASCE conference I heard about the Key Contact program and felt it would be a great way to stay well-informed of legislation affecting our profession. However, I must confess initially I was not the most dedicated at reaching out to my legislators. As I advanced in my career, I began to see the effect certain legislation had on our profession and business and I became more engaged both at the local and state level. [![MGM](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/MGM-iPhone-868-225x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/MGM-iPhone-868.jpg)Marisa Geldert Murphey on the steps of the US Capitol during the March 2014 Fly In**What levels of government have you focused your efforts on? Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there?** Instead of focusing on a certain level of government, I simply stay appraised of proposed bills, executive orders and amendments that affect my livelihood and our quality of life. I try to keep other people informed which is much easier with social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. People are busy and want to focus on what they know, the workings of the government at any level can be intimidating or at times frustrating. So I want to make sure I increase the pool of knowledge and get as much information out to my network as possible. I have had several people in the industry thank me for keeping them up to date. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** I am usually made aware of state and federal issues by ASCE’s Government Relations staff. I am always impressed with how quickly they will hear of proposed language, especially at the state level. Effective advocacy does require research. I review the language of the proposed bill and any position or summary papers out there. I reach out to my network of legislators, staffers and lobbyists to understand the intent, benefits and potential pitfalls of any proposed rules or legislation. I share my feedback and make sure they understand the impacts good and bad. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** I have learned a couple things over the years. A small group of concerned citizens can actually make a difference. I have also learned that it is critical to stay informed and become involved. Well-meaning legislation can quickly pass through without a thorough understanding of the impacts to small business or our profession. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** Absolutely, while most people would think advocacy is about persuasion, I believe it is about credibility and character, and I believe my involvement has enhanced my credibility in the industry. My advocacy work has also refined my listening and communication skills. **What has been challenging about being an advocate? What methods have you found effective in working through those challenges? What sort of pitfalls or setbacks have you encountered? And how did you overcome them?** The greatest challenge is understanding the political dynamics, particularly at the federal level. You cannot go into this being single-minded, you have to understand the broader interests at stake. The other challenge is the slow rate of progress, it can be very frustrating, and this requires stamina and patience. Some of the pitfalls I have encountered are simply the lack of political will to make tough decisions. I try to understand where the resistance is coming from, find common ground and form alliances around those areas we can agree on, and slowly gain traction from there. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts? Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** The most rewarding moments are when hard-fought-for legislation passes, with meaningful language still intact. The most memorable experience for me was sitting at ASCE’s Washington, DC office recently while in town for the Transportation Construction Coalition (TCC) Fly-in and watching footage of the President signing the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) into law. It was very fitting that I happened to be there with the ASCE Government Relations staff witnessing that signing, they worked very hard on our behalf for that legislation. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference?** Yes, our legislators want to hear from their constituents. Many people complain about the influence lobbyists have in Washington, however, they have never contacted their legislators. I have worked with legislators requesting endorsements of amendments beneficial to the civil engineering profession, so I know my efforts are making a difference. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** The most important step is [sign up as a key contact at ASCE](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/). The Government Relations staff are your boots on the ground and will keep you informed. Consider becoming an advocate champion within your Section or Branch to inform members and colleagues in your area. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Marsia%20Geldert-Murphey%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** advocacy profile --- ### [New ASCE Report Offers Recommendations to Maximize Transportation Project Funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-asce-report-offers-recommendations-to-maximize-transportation-project-funding/) **Published:** September 30, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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the majority of transportation industry practitioners’ agreement that the full cost of a project—including long-term operation and maintenance—should be considered in decision-making, only 48 percent of practitioners said their agencies could effectively predict future costs, according to a survey released as part of a new report by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the Eno Center for Transportation (Eno). State and federal funding for transportation projects is stagnant, yet *Maximizing the Value of Investments Using Life Cycle Cost Analysis* finds that currently most transportation funding is invested without considering long-term operating costs. To improve decision making, the report gives a series of policy recommendations on how to implement Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), a process which ensures total costs related to an asset— including the cost to operate the infrastructure in the future—is accounted for. “Considering the full cost of a project throughout its lifespan is essential if we want to make the best investment with the limited funding available,” said Pat Natale, Executive Director, ASCE. “There is a clear desire to use this more in the transportation industry. Now is the time for our policymakers to incentivize using LCCA to ensure we choose the right project and design options.” “Far too often not enough analysis goes into transportation investment decisions as the emphasis is placed on upfront costs rather than long-term costs and benefits,” said Eno President and CEO Joshua Schank. “Both local and federal planners and policymakers can make a difference in the future of this country’s transportation and infrastructure network by implementing life cycle cost analysis.” According to the report’s survey of industry decision-makers, operation and maintenance costs are pressing concerns. Yet, less than half of respondents had an “operations plan” as part of the planning process. Life cycle cost analysis considers these costs associated with a project and can help inform which projects are selected, to ensure the best use of funding. Through case studies, the report also finds that: - Using data-driven analysis can save agencies money by improving project selection. In Denver, the use of life cycle cost analysis saved the Regional Transit District $300 million. - The private sector can play an important role in incorporating life cycle cost analysis in project design and selection, as it already is a leader in considering operation and maintenance costs. - There is an opportunity for the federal government to provide more incentives to tie agency performance to funding. The report was released at a Capitol Hill briefing today that featured a panel of industry experts, including Greg Nadeau of the Federal Highway Administration, Beth Osborne of Transportation for America, and Christopher Stone of Clark Nexsen, an engineering firm based in Virginia. To view the full report, visit [www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Life-Cycle-Cost-Analysis-Report](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Life-Cycle-Cost-Analysis-Report). 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Value of Investments Using Life Cycle Cost Analysis](http://www.asce.org/Infrastructure/Life-Cycle-Cost-Analysis-Report/).* The report, released yesterday at a Capitol Hill briefing, surveyed industry practitioners and policymakers on their current use of life cycle cost analysis (LCCA), and their beliefs on what role it should play in the decision-making process. It also features six case studies that demonstrate the benefits of implementing LCCA. While almost all those surveyed said it should be part of the process, only 59% said it was currently being used. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_7045-300x200.jpg "Colorado")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/DSC_7045.jpg)Greg Nadeau Beth Osborne Joshua Schank Eno Pat Natale ASCE and Chris Stone all offered their perspectives on the value of LCCA Photo by Neshan H NaltchayanUsing LCCA is an “emerging and significant topic,” said Greg Nadeau, acting administrator of the Federal Highway Administration. He was one of the industry experts that shared unique perspectives on the report and how LCCA can benefit transportation project planning during yesterday’s event, [which you can watch in-full on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dXhgsdbW35A&feature=youtu.be). Nadeau pointed to the need for maximizing investment as the nation faces constrained budgets and aging infrastructure. Beth Osborne from Transportation for America, and ASCE Industry Leaders Council member Christopher Stone, president of Clark Nexsen, shared viewpoints from different perspectives on the current use of LCCA in the industry and the value of increasing its implementation. Osborne believes using LCCA will become easier very quickly, as greater implementation will lead to a discovery that the data needed is already in existence in unexpected places. To help support civil engineers as they incorporate LCCA into decision-making, Stone shared that a course to train leaders in LCCA is critical, as it will reduce the barriers to entry. This report is only a step in incorporating LCCA more broadly. As Nadeau concluded: “This is an iterative process. We will never just rest on our laurels.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Maximizing%20the%20Investment%20in%20Transportation%20Projects&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F10%2FDSC_7045-300x200.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Maximizing%20the%20Investment%20in%20Transportation%20Projects "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Maximizing%20the%20Investment%20in%20Transportation%20Projects&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, LCCA, life cycle cost analysis, life cycle costs, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [21-Year-Old Gas Tax Rate Still Holding Up America’s Roads & Bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/21-year-old-gas-tax-rate-still-holding-up-americas-roads-bridges/) **Published:** October 1, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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following is a statement from Randall (Randy) S. Over, P.E., F.ASCE, president of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), regarding the 21st anniversary of the last federal gas tax increase: “Today the federal gas tax’s 18.4-cent rate turns 21. While this is a rite of passage for American college students, this milestone is a sad reflection on Congressional inaction when it comes to our transportation system. According to the Consumer Price Index many household prices have nearly doubled in the past 21 years. - A loaf of bread cost: 1993: $0.75, 2014: $1.39. - A pound of coffee: 1993: $2.50, 2014: $5.16. “Meanwhile, without an increase to the gas tax, it has lost 38 percent of its purchasing power. “We elect our lawmakers to make the tough decisions. However, modernizing our nation’s infrastructure has taken a backseat to partisan politics. America’s more than 600,000 bridges do not have time for such antics. In the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, our roads, bridges, and transit received mediocre grades of a D, C+, and D respectively. These disappointing grades are no surprise. We are trying to fund 2014 infrastructure using 1993 dollars. Because of a lack of political will, the Highway Trust Fund—the federal fund that pays for roads, bridges, and transit—is heading toward insolvency once again. “Even though Congress hit the snooze button until May 2015, there is still an opportunity for the 113th Congress to pass a bill that provides a long-term solution for transportation infrastructure funding. With these short-term gimmicks, states are unable to effectively plan future projects to modernize our aging roads, bridges, and transit. Americans deserve better. This Congress still has the opportunity to fix the Highway Trust Fund, by passing a long-term bill with a sustainable funding solution before the end of the year. Our economic future depends on reliable infrastructure with reliable funding—not band-aids and duct tape.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=21-Year-Old%20Gas%20Tax%20Rate%20Still%20Holding%20Up%20America%E2%80%99s%20Roads%20%26%20Bridges&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=21-Year-Old%20Gas%20Tax%20Rate%20Still%20Holding%20Up%20America%E2%80%99s%20Roads%20%26%20Bridges "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=21-Year-Old%20Gas%20Tax%20Rate%20Still%20Holding%20Up%20America%E2%80%99s%20Roads%20%26%20Bridges&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, gas tax, highway trust fund, roads, transit --- ### [The Time is Now to Invest in Airports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-time-is-now-to-invest-in-airports/) **Published:** October 2, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In fact, the surprise usually is that a flight makes it to its destination on time (or if the travel gods are feeling particularly generous, you might make it to your destination a few minutes early). Some of this is beyond anyone’s control: weather patterns and airplane mechanical problems to name a few. But part of this problem is most certainly self-imposed. Inadequate investment in the nation’s aviation system has real consequences, beyond simply making you a few minutes late for check-in at your arriving hotel. In ASCE’s *[2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* the Society gave a grade of “D” to the aviation sector. Our *[Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/)* report highlights the sobering reality that this lack of aviation sector investment has on the broader U.S. economy: a projected $313 billion in loss of GDP by 2020 and 350,000 fewer jobs throughout the economy by 2020. The Society’s dedication to this issue does not stop with economic reports, but rather this data is the gateway to engaging elected officials to act on solutions to these problems. That is why ASCE recently joined with aviation sector stakeholders, such as [airports](http://aci-na.org/) and [state legislators](http://www.ncsl.org/), to supports an increase in the passenger facility charge (PFC) cap which would allow airports to raise necessary funds locally for improving the nation’s aviation infrastructure. Funds raised through PFCs are only eligible for use at the airport in which they were collected and can be used on projects to preserve or enhance the safety, security and capacity of the national air transportation system. This funding solution is expected to be under consideration when Congress turns its attention crafting to a broader Federal Aviation Authorization (FAA) reform bill early next year. Until then, you can show support for an improved aviation system by writing your Members of Congress [here](http://www.airportsunited.com/#!action-center/cqti) and using the hashtag #AirportsUnited to help spread the message. It’s time to take human error related to political gridlock out of the equation when it comes to getting travelers to their destinations safely, on-time and hopefully with a little less stress. 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email")Texans have an opportunity to increase their state transportation funding coffers when they go to the voting booth on November 4. Proposition 1 is a statewide ballot measure that will dedicate a portion of the state’s oil and gas tax collections to the State Highway Fund. If the measure passes, $1.7 billion could be transferred to the fund in the first year alone. This would prove a significant step toward meeting the funding needs of many transportation projects. The measure, a constitutional amendment, reads as follows: *“The constitutional amendment providing for the use and dedication of certain money transferred to the state highway fund to assist in the completion of transportation construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation projects, not to include toll roads.”* A “yes” vote will ensure a reliable source of transportation funding without the creation of new taxes, tolls or user fees. When you talk with a neighbor about the election, remember this: ✓ Designated funds can only be used for construction, maintenance, rehabilitation, and acquiring right-of-way for public roads. ✓ If approved by voters, 50% of the money currently destined for the state’s Economic Stabilization Fund, or Rainy Day Fund, would be redirected to the State Highway Fund. ✓ The proposition also calls for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to identify $100 million in savings to reduce long-term debt. ✓ Calls for the creation of a 10 person committee (5 State Senators, 5 State House members) to determine a “sufficient balance” for the Economic Stabilization Fund. Ultimately, voting yes is choosing to invest in mobility for Texas and a stronger economy. The measure is currently supported by the ASCE Texas Section in conjunction with the larger [Move Texas Forward](http://movetexasforward.com/) Coalition. Move Texas Forward is committed to improving Texas infrastructure and keeping roads capable of supporting the growth of the state. The coalition is made up of engineering societies and associations, Chambers of Commerce, transportation councils/coalitions, as well as oil and gas industry organizations. While it will not solve all of Texas’ transportation funding challenges, making funds available to the State Highway Fund is just one step in the right direction for Texas. For this reason, ASCE encourages Texans to vote “yes” on Proposition 1 in November. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Texans%20Must%20Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20on%20Designating%20Revenue%20to%20State%20Highway%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2014 Election, 2014BallotInitiatives, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [ASCE Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-seeks-nominations-for-outstanding-civil-engineer-advocate-of-the-year/) **Published:** October 7, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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You could be our next [Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Outstanding-Civil-Engineer-Advocate-of-the-Year-Award/)! If you are one of the many [ASCE Key Contacts](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/) actively building relationships with and educating your elected leaders on issues important to the civil engineering profession, we would like to recognize your efforts. - Nominate an individual (including yourself!) - Nominate a group (such as a Section, Branch, or Younger Member Group) [Details and nomination forms are available from the ASCE website](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Outstanding-Civil-Engineer-Advocate-of-the-Year-Award/). Nomination submission deadline is October 17, 2014. This will be the first time we have honored an outstanding advocate within the ASCE membership. So why now? The civil engineering profession is profoundly affected by decisions made by Congress and by state legislatures. If individual civil engineers don’t work to inform their elected officials about issues so they can make informed decisions, then our world suffers: bureaucracy becomes more complicated, bad programs are continued, good programs go under-funded. [Many ASCE members](http://blogs.asce.org/tag/advocacy-profile/) are already out there talking to legislators and advocating for issues such as [investing in infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org "2013 Report Card for America's Infrastructure"), [building sustainably](http://blogs.asce.org/category/sustainable-engineering/), and [raising the bar ](http://blogs.asce.org/category/the-leadership-imperative/)for the profession. If this describes you, someone you know, or even your Section, Branch or other ASCE group, submit a nomination–submissions accepted through October 17, 2014. Winners will receive recognition at the annual ASCE Legislative Fly-In, March 24-26, 2015 in Washington, DC. Questions? Contact ASCE Government Relations [via email](mailto:govwash@asce.org) or call 202-789-7850. 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The passage of Question 1 would be a step backward for the state, causing roads and bridges to fall into further disrepair. The Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section has endorsed the Committee for Safer Roads and Bridges campaign and ASCE joins them in urging a “**NO”** vote on Question 1 on November 4th. If the “**Yes**” votes pass the ballot measure, it would **eliminate** the requirement that the state’s gasoline tax: (1) be adjusted every year by the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index over the preceding year, but (2) not be adjusted below 21.5 cents per gallon. If the “**No”** votes defeat the measure, Massachusetts will see **no change** to the gas increases established by the Transportation Finance Act of 2013 and retain the ability to more adequately meet its infrastructure needs. Our aging infrastructure can’t wait. Experts say that far too many of Massachusetts bridges are structurally deficient, with many more becoming functionally obsolete. Not only is public safety put at risk when critical transportation funds are cut, but it also impedes economic growth. A safe and reliable transportation system that enables us to move goods and services and commute to work is the backbone of our economy. Repealing the indexing feature of the state’s gas tax would be a step backward. Allowing the gas tax to remain linked to the consumer price index will: - Ensure the gas tax keeps up with need. We went 22 years without an increase in our gas tax causing us to fall behind other states and our roads and bridges to deteriorate. - Enable Massachusetts to invest wisely in the creation and maintenance of infrastructure. - Provide a more stable revenue stream so Massachusetts will not have to burden commuters and other motorists with tolls. - Keep Massachusetts competitive in the national and global economy. - Create jobs by maintaining a steady revenue stream that can fund investments in transportation. Massachusetts is already woefully behind in preserving infrastructure, ranking 31st in the nation for the number of structurally deficient bridges – the top 10 of which carry a total 1.2 million cars each day. Don’t allow the state to fall further behind both putting drivers at risk and increasing the cost of repairs. A vote “No” in November will allow Massachusetts to retain a projected $1 billion in dedicated transportation revenue over the next decade. Fifteen other states are already indexing their gas tax to inflation. Why not Massachusetts? 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Release Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/arkansas-and-vermont-to-release-infrastructure-report-cards/) **Published:** October 12, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Arkansas%20and%20Vermont%20to%20Release%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Cards&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F10%2F2014-Vermont-RC-Cover-Small.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Arkansas%20and%20Vermont%20to%20Release%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Cards "Share on 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Montpelier. The report will review the impact of Tropical Storm Irene on Vermont’s bridges, dams, drinking water, wastewater, roads and solid waste and assess the current condition today. Report Card Committee Chair Amanda Hanaway-Corrente, PE, MBA, will present the new Report Card grades and findings, and the keynote speaker, Sue Minter, the Deputy Secretary of the Vermont Agency of Transportation will highlight Vermont’s progress in rebuilding stronger after the storm. [RSVP here to attend the event](http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&oeidk=a07e9wbh2cu10408d6b&llr=eg8ueflab&elq=e4f995911f524b048eaf966f4d292c38&elqCampaignId=3738 "RSVP to attend the event"). [![AR RC Cover](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/AR-RC-Cover.jpg)](http://www.arasce.org/content.php?page=ASCE_Infrastructure_Report_Cards)The Arkansas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will release the *2014 Report Card for Arkansas’ Infrastructure* next Thursday during the ASCE Arkansas Annual Conference in Little Rock. The report includes an evaluation of Arkansas’ roads, bridges, transit, drinking water, wastewater, levees, and dams. A presentation the Report Card findings will be presented by Aaron Robinson, PE PS M.ASCE, and a keynote will be delivered the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department Director, Scott Bennett. [Attend the conference and release event](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20143&elq=e4f995911f524b048eaf966f4d292c38 "Attend the conference and release event"). 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ballot measure that will provide a dedicated source of funding to California’s water supply infrastructure. This includes much needed public water system improvements, surface and groundwater storage, drinking water protection, recycling and advanced water treatment technology among other eligible projects. California is the midst of a severe, multi-year drought and has an aging water infrastructure system. This ballot measure is a fiscally responsible step toward meeting the state’s overall water needs. It secures California’s water future by keeping family farms and businesses productive, stimulates the economy through the construction of new facilities needed to store, deliver, and treat water. A “yes” vote will ensure a reliable source of funding and prioritize investment in state water infrastructure projects. ASCE recognizes that America’s drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater systems are aging or failing and must be upgraded or expanded to meet increasing federal and state environmental requirements. These requirements have created a crisis that is beyond the means of local communities to solve and for which federal assistance is clearly justified. Not meeting the investment needs of the next 20 years risks reversing the environmental, public health, and economic gains of the last three decades. A “yes” vote will ensure funding for key public benefits: water quality, flood control and the preservation of natural habitat. When you talk with a neighbor about the election, remember this: ✓ Provides safe drinking water for all communities. ✓ Expands water storage capacity as a means of managing and preparing for drought. ✓ Invests in water conservation, recycling and improved local water supplies. ✓ Increases flood protection. ✓ Secure and safeguard California’s water supply without raising taxes. The measure is currently supported by ASCE Region 9 and a number of professional societies, members of the business community, conservation groups, and leading state politicians. Support a comprehensive state water plan by voting “yes” on [Proposition 1](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/california) in November. 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bonds](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/hawaii)” will be sold as a means of generating financial assistance to dam and reservoir owners to aid in improvements or maintenance to ensure compliance with safety standards. Amendment 5, a constitutional amendment, will read as follows: *“Shall the State be authorized to issue special purpose revenue bonds and use the proceeds from the bonds to offer loans to qualifying dam and reservoir owners to improve their facilities to protect public safety and provide significant benefits to the general public as important water resources?.”* A vote “**for**” will allow the legislature to issue “special purposes revenue bonds” that will provide needed assistance to owners without placing an undue burden on the state. A similar measure was defeated by voters in 2012. In order to take effect the measure must not only win a majority of votes on this proposal but, must also win a majority of all voters in this election. This makes it ever more critical to ensure funds are available to assist all dam/reservoir owners. To ensure additional funds can be made available to improve Hawaii’s dams and reservoirs, protect public safety and preserve important water sources, remember this when you vote: ✓ Special Purpose Revenue Bonds will not create an additional burden for the state or taxpayers. ✓ Both public and private entities will have an opportunity to seek out special purpose bonds. ✓ The measure will have no effect on current or future tax rates or spending levels. ✓ Breaches not only create a public safety risk but, can cause significant damage to infrastructure in the surrounding area. Ensuring funds are available for dam and reservoir improvement is in the public interest. Amendment 5 is supported by the ASCE Hawaii Section in addition to local Chamber of Commerce and a number of agricultural and land use groups. It is also one of 15 legislative proposals endorsed by the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources in 2014. Preserve the integrity of dams and reservoirs throughout the state by supporting this important ballot measure! 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Infrastructure](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/2014-Vermont-RC-Cover-Small-231x300.jpg)](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=17659&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6)The latest ***Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure*** showed a slight improvement in their overall GPA to a “C.” The 2014 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure is an update from 2011, when the state received a “C-” cumulative grade. The Report Card assessed bridges (C), dams (C), drinking water (C-), wastewater (D), roads (C-), and solid waste (C+). After Tropical Storm Irene damaged the state’s infrastructure backbone in 2011, Vermont made significant investments through catch-up and emergency funding. In addition, the state’s most recent transportation funding package provided close to $700 million for transportation infrastructure, the largest transportation infrastructure investment in state history. There have also been programmatic changes. Road fatalities have been cut nearly in half since 2006 due to changes made using the Strategic Highway Safety Plan. Led by Amanda Hanaway-Corrente, P.E. who chaired the effort and Vermont Section President-Elect Jessica Clark Louisos, P.E., the Report Card was released at a luncheon in Montpelier, which included a keynote from Sue Minter, deputy secretary at the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTRANS) and David Mears, commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation. “Vermont is poised to grow our economy as we continue to make investments into our infrastructure. The transportation funding that was signed into law in June is one example of how the state continues to focus on innovation and jobs,” said Minter. Media coverage of the event included the [Burlington Free Press](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20252&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "Burlington Free Press") and [WCAX](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20262&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "WCAX"). **[Read the full Vermont Report Card](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=17659&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "Read the full Vermont Report Card")** [![](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/IMG_8508_crop-300x228.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/IMG_8508_crop.jpg) [![Vermont RC Chair Release](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Vermont-RC-Chair-Release-190x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Vermont-RC-Chair-Release.jpg)[![IMG_8512_lighter](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/IMG_8512_lighter-300x225.jpg "New Study: U.S. Mayors Prioritize Infrastructure Investment to Drive Post-COVID-19 Economic Recovery")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/IMG_8512_lighter.jpg) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure, Vermont, Wastewater **Tags:** bridges, dams, grade, infrastructure, report card, roads, transportation, Vermont, wastewater, water --- ### [Infrastructure in Arkansas Earns D+](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-arkansas-earns-d/) **Published:** October 17, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20Arkansas%20Earns%20D%2B&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F10%2FAR-RC-Cover-234x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20Arkansas%20Earns%20D%2B "Share on 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Arkansas’ infrastructure received a cumulative GPA of “D+” in the 2014 Report Card for Arkansas’ Infrastructure. The seven infrastructure categories evaluated in the report include: **Roads (D+)** **Drinking water (D+)** **Transit (D+)** **Levees (D)** **Dams (D)** **Bridges (C+)** **Wastewater (C+)** The report noted that Arkansas has the 12th largest highway system in the nation, as well as the second highest traffic fatality rate in the country as of 2010. In addition, the state has 214 wastewater treatment facilities that will need upgrades and improvements in the next 20 years. The Report Card, the first for Arkansas, was released during the annual ASCE Arkansas Section Conference and included a keynote address by Scott Bennett, director of the Arkansas State Highway and Transportation Department. The report was featured in both the [Arkansas Democrat-Gazette](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20249&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "Arkansas Democrat Gazette") and the [Times-Record](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20250&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "Times Record"). The effort was led by Aaron Robinson, P.E., based in Jacksonville, Arkansas. **[Read the full Arkansas Report Card](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141017-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20251&elq=018cdc21e5424dc2b43c084b283b01b6 "Read the full Arkansas Report Card")** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20Arkansas%20Earns%20D%2B&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F10%2FAR-RC-Cover-234x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20Arkansas%20Earns%20D%2B "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Protect%20Wisconsin%E2%80%99s%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund%20%E2%80%94%20Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20on%20Question%201%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On November 4, Wisconsin voters will be asked to decide how the state can spend its transportation dollars. [Question 1](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/Wisconsin) will appear on the ballot statewide and if passed, will ensure that revenue allocated to the Transportation Trust Fund will not get transferred in to the state’s general fund. A vote “**for**” will ensure a reliable source of transportation funding without the creation of new taxes, tolls or user fees. It will also change the state of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation from a statutory agency to one provided for by the state’s constitution. Prevent the diversion of Wisconsin’s transportation funding for non-transportation purposes. When going to the polls on November 4, remember this: - A “lock box” will be created ensuring funds will be deposited into the Transportation Fund and only be able to be used for transportation-related purposes. - All taxes and fees related to motor vehicles, aircraft, and railroads collected after December 31, 2010 would now be deposited into the Transportation Trust. - The measure will elevate the Department of Transportation from a statutory agency to a constitutional agency. - The measure does not create additional taxes or user fees. Up to now, transportation dollars have often been transferred into the general fund to invest in non-transportation projects. These funds have never been paid back preventing the state from investing in much needed maintenance and improvements. While it is not the answer to all of Wisconsin’s infrastructure revenue needs, vote “yes” to put Wisconsin back on track by “locking up” the Transportation Trust. This midterm election, voters in several states have the opportunity to ensure funding for transportation is designated, [including in Maryland](//cqrcengage.com/asce/maryland). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Protect%20Wisconsin%E2%80%99s%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund%20%E2%80%94%20Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20on%20Question%201%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2014BallotInitiatives, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [ASCE Participates in White House Event on Building Green Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-participates-in-white-house-event/) **Published:** October 22, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20White%20House%20Event%20on%20Building%20Green%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) invited ASCE to participate and join a new working group called the Green Infrastructure Collaborative. The Collaborative is a broad network of federal agencies, NGO’s, and private sector entities focused on promoting and implementing green infrastructure across government and in the private sector. ASCE members and staff attended the first of several meetings this month at the White House to share and build knowledge around green infrastructure technologies and policy issues from the perspective of various stakeholders. In particular, ASCE has committed to conducting research and providing information on stormwater best management practices, low-impact development, and focusing attention of environmental and water resources engineers on sustainable development principles. See [ASCE’s full commitment](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20136&elq=681ebdde02114d059971201b90a96df3 "ASCE's full commitment") along with other participating organizations, including the federal government. Also on this month, CEQ released a fact sheet related to building community resilience by strengthening America’s natural resources and supporting green infrastructure. The fact sheet is part of an ongoing effort to focus on resilience following a [Presidential Executive Order on Climate Preparedness](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20137&elq=681ebdde02114d059971201b90a96df3 "Presidential Executive Order on Climate Preparedness") issued last November. A number of important announcements were revealed in the fact sheet, including the results of a new U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) screening-level vulnerability assessment tool for coastal projects, which finds that roughly one third of USACE coastal projects are vulnerable to climate change. View more of the [actions announced in the fact sheet](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20154&elq=681ebdde02114d059971201b90a96df3 "Actions announced in the fact sheet"). [![ASCE member, Charles Rowney (center) with Shannon Cunniff, Environmental Defense Fund (left) and Susan Gilson, National Association of Flood & Stormwater Management Agencies (right)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Green-Infrastructure-event-300x225.jpg "ASCE Water infographic")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Green-Infrastructure-event.jpg)ASCE member Charles Rowney center with Shannon Cunniff Environmental Defense Fund left and Susan Gilson National Association of Flood Stormwater Management Agencies right[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20White%20House%20Event%20on%20Building%20Green%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, sustainability --- ### [Vote “For” Question 1!: Protect Maryland’s Transportation Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vote-for-question-1-protect-marylands-transportation-trust-fund/) **Published:** October 23, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Vote%20%E2%80%9CFor%E2%80%9D%20Question%201%21%3A%20Protect%20Maryland%E2%80%99s%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![car door and key](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/car-door-and-key-300x296.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/car-door-and-key.jpg) [Wisconsin](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/Wisconsin) voters aren’t the only ones who will be asked to decide how the state can spend its transportation dollars. On November 4, Maryland voters will also head to the polls to address this very issue. [Question 1](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/maryland) will appear on the ballot statewide and if passed, will ensure that revenue allocated to the Transportation Trust Fund will be used exclusively for the construction and maintenance of highways as well as related transportation purposes. The measure offers the strongest possible protection for the Transportation Trust Fund by prohibiting future transfers to the general fund. Up to now, legislative remedies have not been enough to stem the “raiding” of Maryland’s transportation coffers. Only a constitutional amendment can ensure that major funds are available for current and future road and transit improvements. A vote “**for”** provides a reliable source of transportation funding without the creation of new taxes, tolls or user fees as it hinders the diversion of Maryland’s transportation funding for non-transportation purposes. When voting, remember this: - A “lock box” will be created ensuring funds will only be able to be used for transportation related purposes. The only override is a declared fiscal emergency **and** a three-fifths vote in both houses. - You will prevent further raiding of the state’s transportation dollars. Over $1 billion has already been diverted from local transportation projects and never refunded. - The measure will have no effect on current or future tax rates or spending levels. - Ensuring funds are available for construction and maintenance of state and local roads will help reduce congestion, improve safety and reliability, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy. Until July 1995, Maryland had a clear revenue sharing measure in place that designated how the Trust would be funded. In 2014, voters are once again being asked to “lock” the state’s critical transportation fund and prevent transportation dollars from being used for general purposes. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Invest%20in%20a%20Louisiana%20Infrastructure%20Bank&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Invest%20in%20a%20Louisiana%20Infrastructure%20Bank "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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This is a critical step towards establishing the Louisiana Infrastructure Bank as it creates a mechanism to allocate funds that will provide the state with safer roads and stimulate local economies. A “yes” vote on [Amendment 4](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/louisiana) will authorize the allocation of state funds to an infrastructure bank for eligible transportation projects and prompt the state legislature to take necessary steps toward the Bank’s creation. Louisiana has a severely underfunded infrastructure which has resulted in deteriorating roads and unsafe driving conditions for its residents. While this amendment would not create the infrastructure bank itself, it is the initial step toward improving road conditions. A vote in support of the infrastructure bank will ensure funds are available to improve road conditions throughout the state. When casting your vote on November 4, remember this: ✓ The current fuel tax is not keeping up with the growing costs of maintaining Louisiana’s roads. ✓ Louisiana needs a dedicated revenue stream to improve current conditions. ✓ The measure will allow the state to fund transportation project without increasing taxes or fees. ✓ Investing in infrastructure projects creates jobs and stimulates the local economy. ASCE supports the creation and operation of a state infrastructure banks. Such a bank would leverage public funds and private dollars to invest in infrastructure – transportation, water resources, environment, energy, telecommunications, and public facilities projects. The Louisiana Section of ASCE is also supportive of Amendment 4. To help Louisiana take a step in the right direction the Section has pledged their support of the “[4 for the Roads](http://www.4fortheroads.com)” campaign. “4 for the Roads” is a movement to educate Louisiana citizens of the importance of passing Constitutional Amendment 4. Organizations driving the campaign include engineering societies, transportation associations and contractor groups. The time is now to establish a funding source to ease traffic congestion and repair the state’s roads and bridges. Vote “yes” on November 4! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Vote%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Invest%20in%20a%20Louisiana%20Infrastructure%20Bank&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2014BallotInitiatives, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: SOS for Depleting Infrastructure Funds: The Time to Act is Now!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-sos-for-depleting-infrastructure-funds-the-time-to-act-is-now/) **Published:** October 24, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20SOS%20for%20Depleting%20Infrastructure%20Funds%3A%20The%20Time%20to%20Act%20is%20Now%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With the elections a little under two weeks away, a recent drop in oil prices and a [current D+ report card in infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home), now is an opportune time for America to focus on transportation and infrastructure funding. The [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) is not only crucial for funding roads, bridges and transit, but necessary for states to partner in funding transportation projects. Our country needs to invest $3.6 trillion to make the necessary improvements in our infrastructure by 2020 with a current budget forecast of $2 trillion that [leaves a $1.6 trillion gap](http://trenchlessonline.com/index/webapp-stories-action/id.3001/title.u.s.-market-is-ripe-for-infrastructure-investment,-arcadis-report-finds). So what is the connection between declining oil prices and the trillion dollar gap in federal funding? According to [USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2014/10/19/oil-prices-raise-gas-tax-iran-russia-editorials-debates/17587803/), raising gas taxes while the prices are lower would be “the most painless way to begin addressing a problem that cannot be avoided much longer.” With gas prices down about 15 percent nationwide, Americans are paying an average of $3.14 a gallon, which is about [20 cents per gallon cheaper](http://www.forbes.com/sites/christopherhelman/2014/10/22/in-which-states-are-gasoline-prices-falling-fastest/) than this time last year. Despite legislators’ adversity to implementing a gas tax increase, the realization that we can pay now or pay more later is starting to be more widely recognized. This year six legislatures, including [Louisiana](http://www.sulphurdailynews.com/article/20141016/NEWS/141019791/10082/NEWS), [Maryland](http://www.myeasternshoremd.com/news/kent_county/article_e4134f44-4137-503a-8a32-93fc2f9d8055.html), [Missouri](http://swtimes.com/elections/election-2014-3rd-district-candidates-infrastructure-isis-minimum-wage), [Rhode Island](http://www.browndailyherald.com/2014/10/21/state-infrastructure-falls-flat/), [Texas](http://impactnews.com/houston-metro/katy/november-proposition-aims-to-drive-road-funding_1/) and [Wisconsin](http://biztimes.com/article/20141016/BLOGS/141019857), have placed actions on the November ballot to [increase spending on roads, bridges and other transportation infrastructure](http://www.chicagotribune.com/sns-wp-blm-news-bc-bg-editorial-gastax17-20141017-story.html). States like [Texas](http://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/transportation/article/Texas-roads-need-more-than-Prop-1-supporters-say-5835546.php) are proposing to transfer a portion of the state’s oil and gas production tax revenues to the State Highway Fund. Likewise in New Jersey, [State Transportation Commissioner Jamie Fox said](http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2014/10/report_transportation_commissioner_says_tax_hike_needed_to_fix_roads_and_bridges.html), “Anyone who thinks we’re going to get this done without a tax is just mouthing”. Governor Chris Christie, initially opposed to raising a gas tax, has warmed up to the idea given the [urgency of funding shortages](http://www.njbiz.com/article/20141022/NJBIZ01/141029905/State-transportation-chief:-Gas-tax-hike-may-be-necessary). Unless we increase the gas tax to match 2014 inflation, slightly raising the gas tax alone will not provide enough funds to build the roads and rails necessary to foster [economic growth.](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2014/10/19/oil-prices-raise-gas-tax-iran-russia-editorials-debates/17587803/) While [ASCE supports raising the gas tax](http://blogs.asce.org/21-year-old-gas-tax-rate-still-holding-up-americas-roads-bridges/) as a significant measure to generate funding, we recognize that a variety of measures are needed to provide long-term, sustainable funding that will [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20SOS%20for%20Depleting%20Infrastructure%20Funds%3A%20The%20Time%20to%20Act%20is%20Now%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2013 State Report Card, Gax tax, highway trust fund --- ### [Enhance Rhode Island’s Mass Transit Systems — Vote “Yes” on Question 6](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/enhance-rhode-islands-mass-transit-systems-vote-yes-on-question-6/) **Published:** October 29, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Rhode Island voters will be asked to invest in transit improvements to make travel, and commuting, easier. Passing this measure will allow the State of Rhode Island to issue bonds and notes to fund enhancements and renovations to mass transit hub infrastructure throughout the State of Rhode Island to improve access to multiple intermodal sites, key transportation, healthcare, and other locations. This new vision for travel in Rhode Island would benefit not only the system’s current users but also attract a new generation of users who value transportation choice and convenience. Ultimately, reliable transportation and livable, walkable communities are needs that all Rhode Islanders can relate to; our families, our industries, and our economy depend on them. On Tuesday, remember these key facts about Question 6: ✓ It increases the accessibility of transportation, increasing access to health care facilities and other locations. ✓ Improved mass transit will reduce congestion on our roads, making commutes quick and safer ✓ Funding will allow Rhode Island to leverage infrastructure funding from federal and private partners. ✓ Improvement to the transit system will lead to more jobs and economic development. Rhode Island deserves a 21st Century mass transit system. Create job opportunities and increase economic development by passing Question 6! 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Her extensive work with ASCE set her apart from the competition.](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Amanda-Conway-Picture1-300x200.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Amanda-Conway-Picture1.jpg)Amanda being honored as Vermonts 2011 Young Engineer of the Year Her extensive work with ASCE set her apart from the competition*Amanda Hanaway-Corrente, PE, MBA, is a member of the Vermont section. She works at the University of Vermont (UVM) Transportation Research Center (TRC) as the New England Transportation Consortium (NETC) Coordinator. She also represents the UVM TRC as the Vermont Agency of Transportation (VTRANS) Research Advisory Committee (RAC) Liaison, ensuring strong communication between UVM and VAOT on various research initiatives. Amanda chaired the committee that produced the [2014 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure](http://www.vtasce.org/report-card/), which was released October 16. She also chairs the Vermont Raise the Bar Committee.* *Amanda has a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from UVM, a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Rhode Island, and a Professional Engineering License in the State of Vermont. Her professional engineering license is in the field of transportation engineering as she has designed many roads, roundabouts, and parking lots prior to becoming involved in transportation research.* *If you are interested in becoming involved with ASCE’s Key Contact Program and promoting the profession through advocacy, [learn more information and sign up at asce.org. ](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/Key-Contact-Program/)* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** My first employer out of college was Stantec. I worked out of their South Burlington office and was strongly encouraged to get involved with engineering societies in Vermont. I started with ASCE, but have also held positions on the Board of Directors for the Vermont Society of Professional Engineers. I have attended several meetings for the Society of Women Engineers, Vermont Society of Engineers, and American Council of Engineering Companies as well. **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** Lately, my two major focal points have been the 2014 update to the Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure and the Raise the Bar initiative, since I am the chair of both committees in Vermont. Earlier this year I attended the annual ASCE Fly-In event on Capitol Hill, which had us focusing on the surface transportation reauthorization and the Water Resources Reform and Development Act. **What levels of government have you focused your efforts on?** I am currently trying to expand my network at the local, state, and federal levels. Opportunities that I use to accomplish this goal include: - Attending various conferences on behalf of the UVM, TRC and ASCE, taking each as an opportunity to meet people who affect change on a national level. For example, I attended the [Annual ASCE Fly-In Event](http://www.asce.org/Government-Relations/Key-Contact-Program/ASCE-s-Annual-Legislative-Fly-In/) earlier this year. - Acting as a research liaison for my office with the Vermont Agency of Transportation, which provides the opportunity to make connections on the state level. - Staying involved with several engineering societies in Vermont in an effort to stay on top of local and state issues. - Attending events such as “The Day Under the Dome “at the Vermont Statehouse, which provides an opportunity to network with our legislators. Most of my government relations activities are focused on State and Federal employees and appointees that do work in the field of transportation. The Vermont Section of ASCE just added the Government Relations Representative position to their Board of Directors last year. At this point, I am trying to learn who the various players are before crafting a specific plan or focus with respect to outreach and advocacy. One thing I have done to learn more is to reach out to several people with experience in advocacy to serve on committees with me. These folks have been instrumental in helping develop advocacy plans and mentoring me as a Government Relations Representative. I was recently interviewed by [Vermont Public Radio for the release of the 2014 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure](http://digital.vpr.net/post/vermont-earns-c-quality-infrastructure) on October 16th. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** The ASCE website is an excellent tool. I can always find PowerPoint presentations, guidelines, and other documents that help me get up to speed with the issues and how to advocate on their behalf. ASCE National has support staff for both the Raise the Bar Initiative and the State Infrastructure Report Cards. This staff is always very responsive to requests, and they have a lot of tools that might not even be on the website. I also use the Vermont Section Board of Directors and Regional Governors as a resource for a lot of issues. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** Prior to volunteering as the Vermont Section Government Relations Representative, I had limited knowledge about how the Legislature and Congress worked on a local, state or national level. I worked almost entirely in my silo of transportation engineering, design, and research. I am now much more familiar with the schedule, players, and processes associated with the Legislature and Congress. I am currently working with a committee to pass new legislation in the State of Vermont with respect to the Raise the Bar Initiative, and that committee includes a member of the Vermont House of Representatives. I have learned that having a member of the Legislature on your team is tremendously helpful for being an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist; their insight is invaluable. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** Absolutely! Chairing two committees at once really sharpens my communication skills and efficiency. We try to accomplish the most amount of work with the least amount of effort, especially since we are all volunteering our time. The volunteers come from all over Vermont, so communication has to be done in a way that keeps everyone in the loop at all times and does not exclude anyone. With every ASCE Event I attend I expand my network to include more professionals in my industry. Since my job is focused on linking needs with available resources, having a diverse network is essential. **What has been challenging about being an advocate? And how did you overcome them?** My biggest challenge is trying not to push people too much. You have to remember that your fellow Section Board of Directors and committee members are all volunteering their time too. Sometimes personal matters come up and a Board Member has to back down from a committee, so the rest of the committee binds together to absorb the work. It is important to balance workloads among the committee members and push the goals of the committee forward, without burning people out. I try to be reasonable about expectations and not over commit the committee to unfeasible tasks and deadlines. At times where setting high effort, quick turnaround goals are necessary, it is important that the entire committee agree to the necessity before setting tasks and deadlines. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts? Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** The most rewarding aspect of being involved with ASCE is a sense of confidence in my abilities. I was very young when I was President of the Vermont Section, which provided me experience on how to manage a team before I was ever offered a role in management at my job. When I was finally offered a job in management, I had developed the experience to accept and fulfill my new management role confidently. The most rewarding moment of my career was being named Vermont’s 2011 Young Engineer of the Year. I am fairly certain that my work with ASCE set me apart from the other nominees. The very next year, the Vermont Section won the *Outstanding Section & Branch 2012 Award* for small sections. I remember the exact moment I found out that we had won: For the last few years, the Vermont Section has been hosting a Toys for Tots drive as our December Event. I was standing by the bar during the social hour of the event when one of our ASCE Regional Governors came up and told me the news. I immediately raised my fist in the air and jumped with delight, bumping into the man standing behind me and spilling most of his drink. I was so excited because I had worked really hard on filling out the application, a responsibility the Board of Directors had entrusted me with. Our section deserved the award and I found it so rewarding to be able to facilitate the effort to obtain it. In 2013, we won the *Outstanding Section & Branch Award* again, using the 2012 application as a template. Since then, my most recent memorable moment is being selected as a member to profile in ASCE’s new Advocacy Profile Spotlight! Moments like those remind me why I work so hard. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference? How?** I am sure that my efforts have made a difference in various ways, but the one example that stands out to me is being able to mentor young engineers. I am constantly offering help to college students and young engineers move forward in the professional world. There are so many career options for civil engineers and it can be scary when you are first starting out. The myriad of connections I have made in the engineering world through ASCE make me a valuable resource to these young engineers. I help them with resumes, mock interviews, which engineering companies exist, what the companies do, what would be the best fit based on the individual student, what certifications they should be working towards, etc. I have even helped students make regional and national connections. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** First, I would tell them that getting involved with ASCE was the most valuable thing I have done for my career. Then I would ask some pointed questions to help them determine what type of advocacy work would be best suited for them. I would also recommend them to get support from their employer. The value of being involved with ASCE is completely transferable to the work environment. If you can align your contributions to ASCE with work for your employer, the work’s value is increased significantly. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Amanda%20Hanaway-Corrente%2C%20PE%2C%20MBA&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Vermont **Tags:** 2014 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure, advocacy profile, Advocate, raise the bar, transportation, Vermont --- ### [Rock the Vote for Infrastructure on Nov. 4](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rock-the-vote-for-infrastructure-on-nov-4/) **Published:** October 31, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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mark](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Check-mark-150x150.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Check-mark.jpg)Have you ever taken the bus to work? Driven across a bridge? Turned on the faucet for a drink of water? You may have even noticed that some of these roads and bridges are in need of some TLC. Perhaps, you’ve heard news stories about how water becomes scarce at the time of drought, or the opposite, that dams might breech due to epic rains. If any of this sounds familiar to you, Tuesday’s election is your chance to tackle your local infrastructure challenges head on! [Statewide ballot measures](http://blogs.asce.org/tag/2014ballotinitiatives/) affecting everything from roads and bridges to water infrastructure needs will be put in your hands in at least eight states and many more localities. Here’s a rundown of what you could see in your neck of the woods: - [California](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/california)’s Proposition 1 asks voters to authorize the sale of bonds to invest statewide water supply infrastructure improvements. In a time of severe drought California needs you to vote “yes” to improve water storage, water quality, and reclamation. - [Hawaii](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/hawaii) voters will be asked to authorize “special purpose revenue bonds” to provide public and private dam and reservoir owners with financial assistance to maintain and improve structures. Voting “yes” on Question 4 will make this possible. - [Louisiana](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/louisiana) needs a “yes” vote on Amendment 4 to authorize the allocation of state funds to an infrastructure bank for eligible transportation projects and prompt the state legislature to take necessary steps toward the Bank’s creation. This is your chance to improve current road conditions and make your daily commute safer! - [Massachusetts](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20147&elq=1b38b6e388fd4e28a8147bbfe24c008e "Massachusetts ballot initiative") needs a “no” vote on Question 1 to maintain the gas tax indexing component of the gas tax increase enacted in 2013. Allow the gas tax to remain linked to the Consumer Price Index and ensure a projected $1 billion of dedicated transportation revenue will be made available over the next decade to modernize roads and bridges. - [Maryland](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/maryland)’s Question 1 needs your “yes” vote to ensure that revenue allocated to the Transportation Trust Fund will be used exclusively for the construction and maintenance of highways as well as related transportation purposes. - [Rhode Island](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/rhodeisland)’s Question 6 will allow the State to issue bonds and notes to fund enhancements and renovations to mass transit hub infrastructure. Vote “yes” will not only improve access to key transportation sites, healthcare, and other locations but, also stimulate the local economy by creating new jobs. - [Texas](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20141010-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=20149&elq=1b38b6e388fd4e28a8147bbfe24c008e "Texas ballot initiative") needs a “yes” vote on Proposition 1 to have funds from the state’s “rainy day” coffers and a portion of the state’s oil and gas tax revenues allocated to a dedicated fund for transportation projects. This measure creates a dedicated fund for the construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of Texas’ roadways, and calls for the creation of a commission to identify Texas Department of Transportation savings. - [Wisconsin](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/Wisconsin) voters, like Maryland, are faced with a Question 1 that will prevent revenue allocated to the Transportation Trust Fund from being transferred into the state’s general fund. Vote “yes” to ensure transportation revenue earned by the state is used as intended! In addition to these statewide measures, many localities will see ballot questions that hit even closer to home. Here are a few that ASCE members have been advocating for: - Voters in [Humboldt County, California](http://www.humboldtgov.org/1299/Sample-Ballot-Options), and a few of its independent cities, will be asked to establish or raise sales taxes for various public works projects. - In Colorado residents in the Pikes Peak region will be asked to invest in stormwater infrastructure by voting to create and fund the [El Paso Regional Drainage Authority](http://www.pikespeakstormwater.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/Resolution-and-Final-Ballot-language.pdf). - The [City of Wilmington, North Carolina](http://www.wilmingtonnc.gov/city_manager/special_projects/2014_transportation_bond) ballot will ask citizens to approve a 2-cent property tax increase (about $40 per year for a $200,000 home) to improve the utility and safety of roads and sidewalks. Improvements include realigning intersections, adding traffic signals, and crosswalks. - In [Greenville County](http://www.greenvillecounty.org/roadscommission/), South Carolina, ballots will include a 1% “sales and use” tax increase to fund road and bridge improvements as well as crosswalks and pedestrian trails.</span. Elections are decided by those who show up. Take the time on Tuesday to make your opinion heard. Get out and vote for clean water, safer roads and bridges, improved public transit and dam safety! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Rock%20the%20Vote%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Nov.%204&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2014BallotInitiatives, gas tax, infrastructure, water infrastructure --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Getting Infrastructure Projects Moving Through the Ballot Box](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-the-nitty-gritty-facts/) **Published:** November 1, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Getting%20Infrastructure%20Projects%20Moving%20Through%20the%20Ballot%20Box&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With Election Day around the corner, ballot initiatives related to infrastructure will give voters a chance to help shape our nation’s future. The economic, environmental and public safety issues on each state’s ballots underscore ASCE’s strategic initiative: improving our nation’s infrastructure. [Infrastructure is the backbone of our economy](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kim-glas/getting-to-a-b-is-worth-it_b_6055954.html). The roads and bridges we drive on, the water we drink, the schools we attend and the power systems we rely on are aging badly and in need of repair. [ASCE’s 2013 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) shows that our nation’s backbone—infrastructure—is in serious need of investment to bring it into good condition. In [The Huffington Post blog](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kim-glas/getting-to-a-b-is-worth-it_b_6055954.html), Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance wrote, “Without a world-class infrastructure, we will not be able to compete in the global marketplace. Resilient infrastructure systems mean we can keep our communities healthy and safe. And, fixing and modernizing these systems is an economic opportunity we cannot afford to pass up.” As this blog illustrates, clearly more advocacy groups realize the domino effect that failing infrastructure has on our nation’s economy and the welfare of all Americans. Without infrastructure in a state of good repair, our nation’s most essential resources are at serious risk. NPR recently exposed how much water is currently being wasted as a result of aging infrastructure. [According to NPR](http://www.npr.org/2014/10/29/359875321/as-infrastructure-crumbles-trillions-of-gallons-of-water-lost), researchers have estimated aging pipes, broken water mains and faulty meters have resulted in enough wasted drinking water to rise 300 feet above Manhattan. And the [American Water Works Association](http://www.awwa.org/) added, “nationwide, the amount of water that is lost each year is estimated to top 2 trillion gallons.” According to the [Center for Neighborhood Technology](http://www.cnt.org/2013/11/18/the-case-for-fixing-the-leaks-release/) (CNT), every year we lose enough water due to aging infrastructure to, “swallow several major American cities whole.” These are [startling statistics](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/drinking-water/overview) that cannot be ignored. In light of increased media focus on the state of our nation’s infrastructure and the consequences of continuing to delay much-needed investment, political leaders are speaking out for solutions. In Vice President Joe Biden’s [recent speech](http://thehill.com/policy/finance/222147-biden-build-build-build) for increased infrastructure spending, he said that Americans need to, “Build, build, build….we always have to build. That’s who we are.” Biden noted that such building would pay off with jobs and growth in manufacturing. When it comes to our nation’s infrastructure, there is more at stake than detoured commutes and increased traffic. Infrastructure is a vital part of our everyday lives and is the [foundation that drives our economy](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). Election season is a time to not only reflect on its importance but also to [make your voices heard at the ballot box](http://blogs.asce.org/rock-the-vote-for-infrastructure-on-nov-4/) to change it for the better. 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Getting%20Infrastructure%20Projects%20Moving%20Through%20the%20Ballot%20Box&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2013 Report Card, infrastructure, water, water infrastructure --- ### [Big Wins for Infrastructure on Election Day](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/big-wins-for-infrastructure-on-election-day/) **Published:** November 5, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Yes](/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Infrastructure-Yes-300x300.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Infrastructure-Yes.png)Leading up to yesterday’s election ASCE brought you information on many [statewide ballot measures](http://blogs.asce.org/tag/2014ballotinitiatives/). ASCE staff worked with our dedicated members on the ground in California, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Texas, and Wisconsin. The issues being put to the test ranged from roads to water and addressed improvements to aging structures, compliance with safety ordinances, or preventing the diversion of dedicated revenue. Now that ballots have been counted, infrastructure has emerged victorious in six of eight states. [California](http://ww2.kqed.org/news/2014/10/23/proposition-1-california-water-bond), [Hawaii](http://westhawaiitoday.com/news/decision-2014/bonding-judgeship-measures-pass-county-clerk-term-ok-d), [Maryland](http://www.capitalgazette.com/news/elections/bs-md-state-ballot-questions-20141104,0,7232117.story), [Rhode Island](http://wpri.com/2014/11/04/ri-voters-approve-all-4-bond-referendum/), [Texas](http://www.brownsvilleherald.com/news/local/article_ac18dc36-64a6-11e4-af57-0017a43b2370.html), and [Wisconsin](http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/voters-approve-state-transportation-fund-amendment-b99382155z1-281551851.html), all overwhelmingly voted to take steps forward in addressing their state’s needs. A win for infrastructure is a win for the residents and businesses in the state. Whether it’s improvements to the water system, mass transit investment or designating dedicated road funding, [everyone benefits from well-maintained infrastructure](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). Maryland and Wisconsin voters have successfully prevented their Trust Funds from being raided for general use while Texas established an infrastructure funding that will draw from oil and gas taxes as well as borrow from “rainy day” coffers. Commuting should soon be a bit easier in Rhode Island as a significant investment in mass transit will now be made with the hopes of alleviating congestion and improving accessibility. Investing in improvements to transportation and transit infrastructure benefits both individuals and businesses as it makes travelling safer, moving goods easier, and extends the utility of existing infrastructure. Hawaii Dam and Reservoir owners will benefit from the ability to request financial assistance as they maintain and repair structures to ensure compliance with Hawaii’s safety standards. Californians can now be better prepared for the extreme drought conditions they’re currently experiencing by investing in projects that will improve water storage and reclamation, and also improve quality and access to clean water in certain parts of the state. In other states, increasing the investment in infrastructure was unsuccessful. Voters in [Louisiana](http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/11/voters_approve_amendments_reje.html) and [Massachusetts](http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2014/11/04/massachusetts-voters-weigh-gas-tax-indexing/jvI6PvaacfOfLNkbolMYRI/story.html) chose to continue with the status quo; the lack of serious investment in aging infrastructure could end up costing the state and its residents more in the long run. [Poor road conditions](http://tripnet.org/state-info-reports.php?state=Louisiana), like those that exist in Louisiana, are not only costly to repair but, are also burdensome to commuters as it wears on their car. A little bit of investment now could mean a significant amount of savings in the long run. Massachusetts voters opted not to ensure a steady revenue stream for the maintenance of and improvement to state bridges and roads by repealing their gas tax’s link to the consumer price index. Pass or fail, we hope that Tuesday’s results will bring renewed interest during the 2015 state legislative session in building and maintaining infrastructure systems that reflect the growing needs of residents and its economy. Ideally this momentum will also carry through to our nation’s capital and lead Congress to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and address other sectors of our infrastructure in critical need of attention. Join us on Thursday, November 13, 2014 for a free eLearning Webinar [What Civil Engineers Need to Know About 2014 Elections](https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/registrations/new?cid=f7jkgfd50e4y), which will further dive into this topic. 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With the nation’s [pressing infrastructure needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) and limited federal funds available, ASCE is pleased that many states are finding creative ways to pay for infrastructure improvements through other means. With six states successfully passing ballots to fund infrastructure, it’s clear that many Americans are tired of underinvestment and want to see [initiatives](http://blogs.asce.org/big-wins-for-infrastructure-on-election-day/) to improve infrastructure in their communities. In [Maryland](http://www.capitalgazette.com/news/elections/bs-md-state-ballot-questions-20141104,0,7232117.story) and [Wisconsin](http://www.jsonline.com/news/statepolitics/voters-approve-state-transportation-fund-amendment-b99382155z1-281551851.html), voters approved a transportation “lockbox” to secure funds for infrastructure needs. In [Texas](http://www.bizjournals.com/houston/news/2014/11/05/voters-pass-prop-1-securing-billions-in-funding.html), oil and gas taxes will be used as a source for transportation funding. [Rhode Island](http://www.browndailyherald.com/2014/11/04/voters-weigh-ballot-measures/) passed an initiative allowing the sale of bonds to fund renovations to mass transit and [California](http://www.turlockjournal.com/section/12/article/27869/) passed an initiative that will improve water security for the state. Even in [Michigan](http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/politics/elections/2014/11/05/michigan-gov-rick-snyder/18574223/), where there was no infrastructure-related ballot initiative, Governor Rick Snyder announced his plan to raise at least $1 billion in new revenues for road repairs through fuel taxes and fees before the end of the year. [Joseph Kane](http://fleetowner.com/fleet-management/will-state-transportation-referendums-impact-national-policy), a researcher with the Metropolitan Policy Program said, “The public sees the impact of transportation on their lives every day and so the attention this issue is receiving at the ballot box shows their growing awareness of problems.” Though several states are making proactive strides to improve infrastructure through investment, not all states are willing to take these steps. [Massachusetts](http://www.bna.com/extras-excise-massachusetts-b17179910969/) voters repealed gas tax indexing, which would have provided critical funding for transportation in the state. [Louisiana](http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/11/voters_approve_amendments_reje.html) also rejected a ballot initiative which would have created an infrastructure bank. ASCE President, Bob Stevens, Ph.D., P.E., said, “By failing to increase revenue or protect funding, these states are continuing with the status-quo, which is unacceptable. Leaders at all levels of government are now tasked with finding solutions to the infrastructure deficit.” Ballot measures to improve state infrastructure are steps in the right direction but are not enough without long-term, sustainable funding at the federal level. Voters demonstrated they want more investment in infrastructure. Now it’s time for Congress to respond to that plea and [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Election%20Results%20Signify%20Shift%20in%20Americans%E2%80%99%20Willingness%20to%20Invest%20in%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2014BallotInitiatives, infrastructure, transportation, water --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Bipartisanship Needed to Get Infrastructure Improvements Rolling](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-bipartisanship-needed-to-get-infrastructure-improvements-rolling/) **Published:** November 14, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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ASCE hopes that the new Congress will respond to our [nation’s infrastructure needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) with compromise and urgency before May, when the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) will once again become insolvent. In order to make progress in revitalizing infrastructure, bipartisan compromise between the White House and Congress is necessary. ASCE Senior Managing Director, Casey Dinges, told [*Wired*](http://www.wired.com/2014/11/new-congress-finally-fix-crumbling-infrastructure/) that there are reasons to be optimistic that the new Congress will address infrastructure spending. Among these are the decrease in gas prices, lack of recent productivity and existing Congressional support for funding infrastructure. According to Dinges, even the conservative [US Chamber of Commerce supports](https://www.uschamber.com/blog/its-time-raise-federal-gas-tax) raising the gas tax as a “smart, fair and achievable way” to meet funding needs. Representative John Delaney is hopeful for bipartisan support when it comes to improving our infrastructure. In [*The Hill*](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/223937-the-low-hanging-fruit-on-bipartisanship), Delaney points to the [Partnership to Build America Act (PBAA)](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/maryland-congressman-delaney-gains-bipartisan-traction-on-infrastructure-funding/2014/01/20/04d67cfc-7fa6-11e3-9556-4a4bf7bcbd84_story.html), which has support from Republicans and Democrats, as an innovative financing tool to create a large-scale infrastructure fund that is funded by selling infrastructure bonds to private companies, rather than increasing taxes or additional spending. Congressman Delaney noted that the PBAA would be a solid step towards infrastructure improvement that “brings together good ideas from both sides of the aisle.” Bipartisanship, compromise and collaboration are key if we are going to address our nation’s infrastructure needs and [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel). 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email")[![pipe](/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pipe-300x207.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pipe.jpg)Corroded Cast Iron Water Pipe 75 100 Years Old Cascade MT Source Great West Engineering Inc**Montana’s Water Pipes Could Stretch From Billings to Miami – Roundtrip** [Montana has approximately 700 public water systems and over 5,300 miles of water distribution and transmission piping, a longer stretch than driving roundtrip from Billings to Miami.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/wastewater/) **Some Pipes Under Original Montana Plots Might Be Original Too** [Some of the older and more established communities in Montana have pipes that date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s and much of the pipe has never been replaced. It is not uncommon for the pipelines in originally established areas to have clay tile pipe that has cracked or failed.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/drinking-water/) **Montana’s Rough Roads Are Rough On Budgets** [46% of major roads in Montana are in poor to mediocre condition and 40% of gravel roads are in poor or failed condition. These rough roads cost each Montanan approximately $292 to $484 per year in extra maintenance costs depending on their area’s roads.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/transportation/) **Montana School Buildings Need Some T.L.C.** [A bottom-to-top statewide school facilities review revealed that 66% of schools showed signs of damage and wear, as well as environmental needs such as HVAC, roof, and electrical issues.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/schools-2/) **Old Dams Don’t Necessarily Have to Be Inspected** [The overall condition of Montana’s dams is difficult to track because 75% do not have periodic engineering inspections and are not required to have operation permits.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/dams/) **Transit Funding Recently Spiked** [Several agencies benefited from over $15 million in Federal recovery investments in 2009, which essentially doubled short-term transit funding in the state.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/transit/) **Montana’s Trash Ends Up In Less Places** [Since 1993, significant improvements have occurred within Montana’s solid waste infrastructure and operations, including a reduction from over 300 facilities statewide to just 31.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/solid-waste/) **Replacing Montana’s Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Could Cost More than 500 Bobcat Stadiums** [Current estimates to completely replace Montana’s entire water and wastewater infrastructure are estimated to range between $12 billion and $15 billion, or in other terms, more than 500 Montana State University’s Bobcat Stadiums.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/drinking-water/) Find out more about the inaugural [*Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/montana-overview/)! 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email")](mailto:?subject=8%20Things%20Worth%20Knowing%20About%20Montana%E2%80%99s%20C-%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Montana, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools **Tags:** dams, infrastructure, Montana, pipes, report card, schools, water --- ### [ASCE Past President Andy Herrmann To Talk Infrastructure with 60 Minutes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/6-asce-past-president-andy-herrmann-to-talk-infrastructure-with-60-minutes/) **Published:** November 21, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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ASCE Past President Andrew W. Herrmann, P.E. SECB, F.ASCE, [will discuss the state of our nation’s bridges during primetime TV on CBS’ *60 Minutes* via a helicopter tour of Pittsburgh](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/wDHgIRBoeP_q4gHkLL0kheu_bLmCiFD9/preview-falling-apart/). [60 Minutes Video – The roads and bridges Americans drive on every day are in dire need of repair or replacement](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/wDHgIRBoeP_q4gHkLL0kheu_bLmCiFD9/preview-falling-apart/) As the Highway Trust Fund heads once again toward insolvency, *60 Minutes* chronicles the need for increased investment across the U.S. with interviews from former Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Rep. Earl Blumenauer. Each with a unique perspective on infrastructure, all these guests will echo the same message: [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) with a long-term, sustainable funding solution. Host a viewing party, set your DVR, and tell your friends and family to tune in at 7:30 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT to see ASCE tell the story behind our nation’s bridges. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Past%20President%20Andy%20Herrmann%20To%20Talk%20Infrastructure%20with%2060%20Minutes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 60 minutes, bridges, highway trust fund, infrastructure, Report Card for America's Infrastructure, roads --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Thankful for Ramped-Up Media Interest in Infrastructure Renewal](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-thankful-for-ramped-up-media-interest-in-infrastructure-renewal/) **Published:** November 21, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Thankful%20for%20Ramped-Up%20Media%20Interest%20in%20Infrastructure%20Renewal&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With holiday travel underway and harsh weather already arriving in [some regions](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/21/nyregion/snowstorm-western-new-york.html?_r=0), the state of our nation’s highways will become even more apparent as thousands of Americans take to the roads to visit family and friends during the Thanksgiving holiday. However, our [current D+ in infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) and lack of sufficient funding for the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) don’t promise improvement without Congress taking intentional measures to provide long-term, sustainable funds. Every year, drivers sit idling in traffic for [34 hours longer than they need to](http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/mailbag/stop-gridlock-in-dc-fix-gridlock-on-roads/article_e7d450b2-d482-566b-b9a1-8459b91ed735.html) because of unnecessary congestion. Congestion is not only aggravating it also costs Americans approximately $101 billion each year in wasted gas. The media recognize that Band-Aids and temporary fixes to the nation’s surface transportation will no longer suffice. More and more media coverage is making the case for a long-term, sustainable funding solution and advocating for increasing revenues. A recent article from [*USA Today*](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2014/11/16/lame-duck-obama-congress-republicans-democrats-editorials-and-debates/18977533/) stated that funding our highways should be among Congress’ top five priorities for the year’s end. And the public overwhelmingly agrees. [According to a recent NBC News/Wall Street Journal poll](http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCEQqQIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fonline.wsj.com%2Farticles%2Fwsj-nbc-poll-finds-americans-want-parties-to-work-together-1416439838&ei=-LpvVJqoDbiUsQSarIG4Dg&usg=AFQjCNEME0atRE8lCKDiUnUc5NWLs-jSDg&sig2=PCUspaWVfB3sGdJnTYknCQ&bvm=bv.80185997,d.cWc&cad=rja), Americans indicated they support increased infrastructure investment for roads and highways even more strongly than tax reform. “This issue affects every community, every user of our system, whether they’re driving, whether they’re using transit in some way,” said [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/11/19/foxx-says-transportation-uncertainty-hurting-country/19281157/), “And I don’t see how we can get through this in a good way as a country without Congress coming to the table and actually passing a long-term transportation bill.” Media coverage in [Tennessee](http://www.tennessean.com/story/opinion/contributors/2014/11/19/failing-transit-system-needs-long-term-solution/19232381/), [Delaware](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/2014/11/19/delaware-states-need-funding-highways/19293887/) and [Wisconsin](http://www.wausaudailyherald.com/story/news/politics/2014/11/18/wisconsin-gov-scott-walker-751m-transportation-budget-will-be-changed/19225855/) each highlighted their state’s need for lasting solutions to revitalize their aging infrastructure. And this past week, ASCE members in Montana released their state’s inaugural [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/2014-Report-Card-for-Montanas-Infrastructure.pdf), giving Montana an overall infrastructure grade of C-. With winter weather bearing down, increased holiday travel and growing media attention, [including ASCE Past President Andy Herrmann’s Nov. 23 interview with *60 Minutes*](http://blogs.asce.org/6-asce-past-president-andy-herrmann-to-talk-infrastructure-with-60-minutes/) focusing on our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure, Congress should act now to [\#FixtheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel). 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bridges” with *60 Minutes*’ Steve Kroft](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/falling-apart-america-neglected-infrastructure/) to highlight America’s aging bridges in a segment that aired Sunday, Nov. 23. [Falling apart: America’s neglected infrastructure](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/falling-apart-america-neglected-infrastructure/) Herrmann was among several experts interviewed for the piece, including former Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). While each guest brought different experiences, they all agreed on one thing: the need for increased funding. One in nine bridges in the U.S. are structurally deficient and the gas tax, last increased in 1993, simply cannot fully-fund a 2014 transportation network. As Herrmann said, “It all comes down to funding.” It is now up to Congress to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) with a long-term, sustainable funding solution that will address our aging infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Past%20President%20Flies%20Over%20Pittsburgh%20on%2060%20Minutes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, highway trust fund, Report Card for America's Infrastructure, roads --- ### [Higher Gas Taxes Will Help Michigan Build a 21st Century Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/higher-gas-taxes-will-help-michigan-build-a-21st-century-infrastructure/) **Published:** December 4, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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cloned, we were excited by the release of IE 4, and ASCE hadn’t yet released its first *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. It is also the last time Michigan increased its gas tax to the current 19-cents per gallon. The diesel tax rate has been in effect since 1984. The time is now for the state legislature to take action. [HB 5477](http://www.legislature.mi.gov/%28S%28fqglev3yibzkgx451axjwwug%29%29/mileg.aspx?page=GetObject&objectname=2014-HB-5477) was approved by the Michigan Senate on November 13th. It’s now the Michigan House’s turn to send this measure to the Governor’s desk**.** This bill will gradually increase the fuel tax to 15.5% through 2018. Governor Rick Snyder (R) has been [actively urging the legislature](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2014/12/01/michigan-gov-rick-snyder-tours-metro-detroit-freeways-roads/19731173/) to send him an infrastructure funding bill. The [2009 Michigan Report Card](http://www.michiganreportcard.com/) gave the state’s roads and bridges a “D” grade. While this might be within range of the national average, roads in poor conditions cost the average Michigander about $538.96 in extra vehicle repairs and general operating costs. This is an almost 10% increase since the 2009 assessment. If enacted, drivers will see a gradual increase in the state gas tax over the next four years, which results in additional road and transportation project funding. Michigan needs the additional tax revenue to maintain and improve its roads. Signing this transportation bill into law would also: - The initial 3.5% increase to 9.5% per gallon could result in an immediate $205 million in additional revenue. When the tax is in full effect in January 2019 an estimated $1.25 billion in revenue will be generated. - The tax will be calculated based on a flat rate of $2.81 over the next several years rather than being fixed to the consumer price index. This will help ensure a more steady increase in revenue, at 2% per year for 3 years, through 2019. - Anticipated revenue will be allocated to the Michigan Transportation Fund (MTF) and should only be available to for use on transportation related projects. ASCE supports [increasing funding](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/) for operating, maintaining, and improving the transportation systems. An increase in Michigan’s gas tax will help the state take a step in the right direction. While it will not result in “great” roads overnight, it has the potential to make the roads “better” and helps generate the revenue needed to give Michigan the infrastructure system it deserves. If Michigan wants to “raise the grade” on roads and bridges, it needs to maintain and improve its transportation infrastructure. By increasing its gas tax, Michigan will be able to improve its roads, which will protect public health and safety as well as the [economic viability of the state](http://thecenterformichigan.net/the-citizens-agenda-for-the-economy/). [Contact your state representative today](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=70493) to make additional funds available to improve transportation infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Higher%20Gas%20Taxes%20Will%20Help%20Michigan%20Build%20a%2021st%20Century%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, roads, transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Final Push in 2014 for Highway Trust Fund Fix](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-final-push-in-2014-for-highway-trust-fund-fix/) **Published:** December 5, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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failures, drivers frustrated with abysmal road conditions and increased media attention to our nation’s aging infrastructure have rattled Americans and driven more states to pursue raising their gas tax as a way of fixing the Highway Trust Fund. This past Tuesday, a massive power failure left large sections of [Detroit](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/12/02/aging-power-systems-detroit/19801935/) in darkness. According to the [2013 Report Card,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/energy/overview) our energy infrastructure scored a D+, largely due to the fact that the nation’s transmission and distribution systems, including 400,000 miles of electricity lines, have long outlived their life spans and desperately need maintenance. Much of the energy infrastructure dates back to the World War II era and some of it was constructed in the 1880s. According to the [Yuma Sun](http://www.yumasun.com/opinion/detroit-another-sign-that-work-is-needed-on-u-s/article_e8e96440-7c03-11e4-9eb2-e33de487b144.html) paper, Detroit is in the midst of a $200 million upgrade to the power grid to help modernize it. If it takes $200 million to properly upgrade the power grid to one city, it is going to be a “tremendous undertaking to modernize the nation’s power grid.” ASCE would like to see partnerships at the state, local and federal levels to make these repairs happen. At the federal level some bipartisan cooperation around the gas tax has increased despite Congress being in the lame-duck session. As reported in [The Hill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/225602-ronald-reagan-used-to-sell-gas-tax-hike), Rep. Tom Petri (R-Wis.) and Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.) joined together, standing alongside a [life-sized cutout of President Reagan](http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/latest-national/latest-national-news/57337-congressmen-blumenauer-petri-reagan-call-on-congress-to-raise-the-gas-tax-fully-fund-transportation-infrastructure.html), to reiterate support for the 1982 gas tax and to inspire lawmakers to raise the gas tax before the next Congress. ASCE supports this bipartisan proposal to raise the federal gas tax indexed with inflation and hopes it will continue to gain momentum. Meanwhile, an increase to the gas tax continues to be a topic of conversation. The [White House Business Roundtable](http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/12/03/remarks-president-business-roundtable) referenced Andy Herrmann’s interview on [60 Minutes](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/3ODvMZc1SAwSguZBM1MdCO60JgwTo2a9/falling-apart-america-s-neglected-infrastructure/) in the context of needing a sustainable funding solution to our nation’s infrastructure as soon as possible. Even [President Obama](http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/2014/12/05/Obama-Says-China-s-Infrastructure-Puts-US-Shame) weighed in this week on the state of the nation’s infrastructure when he said, “It makes no sense that we have a first class economy with a second class infrastructure.” In comparison with countries like China, our infrastructure puts us to shame. Congress is running out of time this year to pass meaningful legislation to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). Let’s hope they decide not to once again kick the can down the road and into 2015. 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ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-shawn-kelley-ph-d-p-e-m-asce/) **Published:** December 11, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F12%2FSean-Kelley-headshot-240x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F12%2FSean-Kelley-headshot-240x300.jpg&description=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Sean Kelley headshot](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Sean-Kelley-headshot-240x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Sean-Kelley-headshot.jpg) *Shawn Kelley Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE is an active member of the Vermont section. He works as a firm shareholder for Geo**Design**, Inc. a consulting firm headquartered in Middlebury, CT, providing geotechnical, construction, and environmental engineering consulting services to the design and construction industry. He works in the Windsor, VT office managing civil engineering projects related to geotechnical engineering. He specializes in earth retention and slope stabilization projects, deep and shallow foundation design, geotechnical instrumentation, and in-situ soil testing.* *Kelley is currently a Region 1 Governor and the Past-President of the Vermont Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). He serves on the Committee on Education (COE) for ASCE National and previously was a committee member on the Committee on Geographic Units (CGU). He is a member of the intersociety committee on Raise the Bar in Vermont. He is corresponding member on the Raise the Bar committee for ASCE and a corresponding member on Leadership Training committee for ASCE. He is also the Legislative Committee Chairperson for ACEC/VT.* *Kelley received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, master’s degree in geotechnical engineering and Ph.D. in geotechnical engineering from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.* *If you are interested in becoming involved with ASCE’s Key Contact Program and promoting the profession through advocacy, learn more information and sign up at asce.org/keycontacts.* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** When I moved to Vermont in 2004, I became actively involved in the Vermont Section of ASCE. I have served on various board-level positions and as president of the Section in 2007-2009. After attending a few workshops for section and branch leaders as well as the president and governors forum, I became aware of ASCE’s government relations department and understood the importance of this advocacy. After attending an ASCE National Fly-In, I became “hooked” by the excitement and exhilaration of seeing the political process in action. I also loved how easy it was to connect with my legislators and their staff. **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** Funding for infrastructure is always a highlight. Vermont may be a small state but it has many large infrastructure projects that need federal funding. It is very easy to talk with our VT delegation because they understand the issues and they want to help. The VT Statehouse has an open door policy and any constituent is welcome to come, meet and mingle with their legislator in the hallway. **What levels of government have you focused your efforts on? (Local, State, Federal). Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there?** I wanted to focus on the state level because VT legislators are easily accessible. As I stated, the Vermont Statehouse has an “open door” policy that is informal and welcoming. State legislators are always willing to talk and listen. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** I rely on the work that ASCE National has done on the Federal level. On the local level, I track legislative bills that are related to civil engineering using the Vermont legislative bill tracking system that is on the state’s website. I have generated an on-going list of the bills, the sponsors for each bill, and the stage the bill is in within the legislative process. This list shows me where we can provide input to state legislative committees, send emails to state legislators, or contact state agencies to ask how we can help support important bills. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** It is a long process and persistence and perseverance is key. The legislative process does not happen overnight and some topics are very controversial. For example, raising the gas tax to fund infrastructure projects is always a heated discussion. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** I believe communicating with legislators in oral and written form has improved my communication skills. **What has been challenging about being an advocate?** Time management, especially when a bill “gets hot” on the state legislative floor. **What methods have you found effective in working through those challenges?** I try to maintain a balance between work, volunteering and personal life, which can be difficult. It is definitely a balancing act. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts?** Meeting new people and developing an extensive network of contacts. **Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** There was a large effort a few years back while I was working with ACEC/VT section in getting the State of Vermont contracting terms for consulting engineers updated. The old terms required consultants to indemnify the state for all acts, errors and omissions. As we know, professional liability insurance for engineers does not cover these types of terms. Through our efforts with the Agency of Administration and working with a local state legislator, we were able to get those terms updated so that only negligent acts, errors and omissions are part of the indemnification clause when contracting with the state on engineering design projects. **Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference?** **How?** Yes, especially with updating the indemnification terms in the standard state contract for engineering design services. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** Do your best to stay updated on current activities with government. ASCE does a great job with the key contact program and “This Week in Washington,” which provides information on the federal and state levels. The amount of information can be overwhelming because so many issues are being discussed in Congress and within each state’s government, but if you focus on a few select topics, it is more manageable. It is important to be willing to provide support when needed if you are on a government relations committee (sometimes at a moment’s notice, depending on the voting stage of bill). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocate%20Profile%3A%20Shawn%20Kelley%2C%20Ph.D.%2C%20P.E.%2C%20M.%20ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: All the Reasons to Fix the Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-all-the-reasons-to-fix-the-trust-fund/) **Published:** December 12, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20All%20the%20Reasons%20to%20Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Photo Credit: Steven Pisano](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/14973353348_7f78c80222_k-300x198.jpg "asce-DeneckeTransmissionLine")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/14973353348_7f78c80222_k.jpg)Photo Credit Steven PisanoReports on transportation investment and its overall benefits to the economy provide incentive for Congress to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) as state lawmakers make their own push for infrastructure investment. On Tuesday, the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) and the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) released the [2015 Bottom Line Report](http://bottomline.transportation.org/ataglance.html), which thoroughly evaluated our nation’s transportation investment needs in relation to our overall economy. According to the report, an estimated $163 billion annually over a six-year period is needed to fix our aging surface transportation. Currently only $83 billion is invested in roads and bridges and only $17.2 billion is invested in public transit. These dramatic investment discrepancies underscore the need for immediate action. Not only does investing in our public transportation benefit those who use it, but such investment also supports our economy by creating jobs. The study from the [Transportation Construction Coalition](http://www.slideshare.net/artba/ihs-global-insight-study-final), “Approximately 62 percent of the jobs created from federal highway and mass transit investment are outside the construction industry—service industries such as business, education, health.” Likewise, “every $1 in federal highway and mass transit investment increases the nation’s GDP between $1.80–$2.00.” [As ASCE has been saying for years](http://www.asce.org/failure_to_act_economic_studies/), investing in federal highway and mass transit will reap benefits beyond improving our daily commutes. A recent article in online publication, [Mobility Lab,](http://inthecapital.streetwise.co/channels/real-estate-investors-pay-attention-to-18-hour-cities-millennials-and-infrastructure-in-2015/) indicated that aging infrastructure also impacts the real-estate market, as road and transit conditions affect where renters and homeowners choose to live. Due to Congress’ lack of progress in fixing the Highway Trust Fund, several states are addressing their infrastructure needs by [considering gas tax increases](http://www.marketwatch.com/story/heres-why-us-states-are-mulling-a-tax-on-gas-as-oil-prices-crater-2014-12-11). [NPR](http://www.npr.org/2014/12/08/369373660/gop-leaders-gas-tax-hike-could-fuel-fixes-to-bad-roads-and-bridges) cited a growing number of Republicans across the country who are realizing that raising the gas tax may be the key to funding infrastructure. In [Michigan](http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2014/12/group_of_southeast_michigan_go.html), Gov. Rick Snyder is calling on lawmakers to double Michigan’s gas tax over time to raise more than $1 billion. Gas tax increases are also on the table for states like [Georgia](http://onlineathens.com/general-assembly/2014-12-08/transportation-funding-rises-top-georgia-legislative-concerns), [New Jersey](http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2014/12/nj_voters_no_to_gas_tax_yes_to_hudson_river_rail_tunnel_years_after_christie_nixed_one.html), [Utah](http://www.standard.net/Government/2014/12/11/Gas-tax-will-likely-be-reworked-in-2015-says-Top-of-Utah-legislator.html), [South Carolina](http://www.thestate.com/2014/12/10/3865315_editorial-sc-needs-a-new-plan.html?rh=1) and [South Dakota](http://www.argusleader.com/story/news/2014/12/06/plan-bad-roads-includes-taxes-fee-increases/20036649/). With gas prices are at their lowest level in four years, states are motivated to seize this opportunity to raise money while they can. Though action on the state level to increase infrastructure funds is encouraging, the best thing for our nation and our economy is [to fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and increase the national gas tax to match inflation. To learn more about what’s happening in your state and our country, download our newly updated [2013 Infrastructure Report Card app ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grades/)for your Android/iOS Tablet. A smart phone version will be available soon. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20All%20the%20Reasons%20to%20Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure investment, infrastructure report card --- ### [State Legislators Come Together to Discuss Infrastructure Issues](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-legislators-come-together-to-discuss-infrastructure-issues/) **Published:** December 15, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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around the country gathered in Washington, DC last week to share innovative solutions to the pressing problems facing states, and infrastructure issues were among the topics they tackled. During National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) annual [Fall Forum](http://www.ncsl.org/meetings-training/forum.aspx), several sessions focused on infrastructure issues that are facing state policymakers. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx told those in attendance that long-term, bipartisan solutions are needed to address the nation’s infrastructure needs. Lawmakers heard from representatives of the National Association of Regulatory and Utility Commissioners about resiliency efforts in the states to protect critical infrastructure during natural disasters. Rep. Linda Harper-Brown of Texas led a discussion on how states can utilize public-private partnerships to finance transportation infrastructure projects by understanding various revenue and financing approaches, and evaluating the policy implications and potential benefits and risks of partnering with the private sector. Another session focused on managing water concerns through hydraulic fracturing. The session educated legislators on how this process works, what chemicals are used and what this means for water quality in the states, as well as what legislatures are doing to protect water quality. NCSL’s [National Resources and Infrastructure Committee](http://www.ncsl.org/ncsl-in-dc/standing-committees/natural-resources-and-infrastructure.aspx) developed these sessions. The committee is one of nine NCSL Standing Committees that educates Congress and federal agencies about state concerns and serves as a forum for state legislators and legislative staff to learn about and share information regarding programs and initiatives in other states. In particular, this committee has jurisdiction over state and federal energy, environment, agriculture and transportation programs, legislation, regulations and policies. As we have seen in recent years, the lack of action by Congress on infrastructure issues has resulted in the states continuing to take the lead, and meetings hosted by NCSL and the Council of State Governments (CSG) provide valuable venues for state policymakers to exchange information and ideas on these critical issues. ASCE has maintained partnerships with both of these organizations to help serve as a resource for state legislators during these discussions. 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Legislators%20Come%20Together%20to%20Discuss%20Infrastructure%20Issues&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, state government --- ### [Nevada Report Card Reveals a $15B Infrastructure Problem](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nevada-report-card-reveals-a-15b-infrastructure-problem/) **Published:** December 16, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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cover](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/NV-RC-cover-232x300.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ASCE-2014-NV-Report-Card12.16.14-FINAL.pdf)During the past twenty years Nevada experienced one of the largest growth surges in the country and then one of the worst downturns from late 2008 through 2013. This roller coaster economy decreased funding levels and preventive maintenance suffered leaving many infrastructure systems underfunded. Hardest hit may be school facilities in both rural communities and cities. Nevada’s funding for maintaining schools stagnated and left a funding shortfall of over $5 billion during the next 5 to 10 years. The [*2014 Report Card for Nevada’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ASCE-2014-NV-Report-Card12.16.14-FINAL.pdf "Report Card for Nevada's Infrastructure"), released today by the Nevada Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), gave the state’s infrastructure a grade of “C-.” The Report Card identifies more than 15 billion in needs across Nevada’s critical infrastructure sectors over 20 years, including: Dams and Flood Control: - With the majority of funding for flood management coming from local gas and sales tax initiatives, there continues to be projected funding shortfalls upwards of $400 million. - The state has 158 high hazard dams, which could lead to loss-of-life or significant property damage if dam failure occurs. - The state budget for high hazard dams is nearly half the national average. Aviation: - In 2005, $500,000 of investments were made in aviation through the Nevada Aviation Trust Fund, resulting in an economic impact of over $20 million. However, since that time no state funding has been allocated into the Trust Fund to leverage federal funding. Roads: - The Nevada Department of Transportation maintains 5,300 miles of state highways, which include many rural roadways within Nevada. - Current funding levels provide only 60 to 70 percent of the required funding to maintain state highways. Schools: - In Clark and Washoe Counties, 45 percent of schools are more than 30 years old. - In other counties throughout the state, there are schools with campuses over 100 years old. - Every dollar held back from school operation and maintenance budgets escalates emergency repair budgets 400 percent. “As the state’s economy continues to rebound, we must make investments in our infrastructure to match,” said Chuck Joseph, P.E., Chair of the Nevada Report Card. “Many of the grades in today’s report are lower than seven years ago. That’s unacceptable and it’s time to commit ourselves to addressing the needs of our roads, drinking water, dams and schools.” “The condition of our infrastructure plays a huge role in making our state a great place to raise a family or own a business,” said Debra March, councilwoman, City of Henderson. “Our roads, schools and water pipes need attention and investment to keep our community thriving.” “Our state’s aging infrastructure comes at a cost to Nevada’s families and businesses. As our economy rebounds, now is the time to invest in infrastructure to keep the momentum going,” said Jim Caviola, Neighborhood Economic Development Corporation. Read the new Report Card for Nevada’s Infrastructure here. 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Infrastructure collapses, like the water main break in DC, remind us that failing infrastructure is fragile and unpredictable—and should be continuously maintained to help prevent a crisis. [On Tuesday in Washington](http://www.washingtonian.com/blogs/capitalcomment/local-news/metro-was-a-nightmare-because-dcs-water-infrastructure-is-terrible.php), D.C., a 12-inch water main ruptured below ground, flooding three subway lines and damaging the streets above it. According to DC Water, the pipe was 61 years old, a relatively young pipe among a system with a median age of 79 years. Some pipes in the system even date back to the Civil War era. [DC’s drinking water infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/district_of_columbia/dc-overview/) requires $1.6 billion in upgrades over the next 20 years and the sewer system needs $2.5 billion in fixes. [There are 240,000 water main breaks per year](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Our_Initiatives/Infrastructure/Content_Pieces/failure-to-act-water-wastewater-report.pdf) and one every two minutes in the United States because of aging pipes. The DC water main break, which affected both the metro rails and streets above, [shows the domino effect of one piece of infrastructure’s impact on others](http://blogs.rollcall.com/the-container/broken-water-main-highlights-infrastucture-weaknesses/?dcz=). DC is not the only place where aging infrastructure has shouted for investments. This week, the Nevada Section of ASCE released its [state Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nevada/nevada-overview/), where the overall grade was a C-. The report points to the state’s great transportation and infrastructure needs to be discussed in next year’s legislation session. In an [op-ed piece](http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20141217/OPINION04/712179919) from Vermont, the author called for stronger dam legislation, citing the Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure’s data. Due to increasing visible need for infrastructure repair, more and more states are taking action to fund infrastructure projects through various measures. In [Washington](http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20141216/BLOG13/141219271), Gov. Jay Inslee unveiled a 12-year, $12 billion transportation proposal, which would be paid for with fees and a new carbon pollution charge. States like [Michigan](http://www.wwmt.com/news/features/top-stories/stories/Lawmakers-rushing-to-reach-road-deal-as-time-ticks-away-64156.shtml), [Tennessee](http://www.dnj.com/story/news/2014/12/16/middle-tn-mayors-seek-state-transportation-revenue/20492101/) and [North Carolina](http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2014/12/16/slight-increase-for-n-c-gas-tax-coming-jan-1.html) are also pushing for transportation funding at the state level. Though action on the state level to increase infrastructure funds is encouraging, the best thing for our nation and our economy is to [fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and increase the national gas tax to match inflation. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Michigan%20Legislature%20Defers%20to%20the%20Public%20on%20Gas%20Tax&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F12%2F9237041694_71bd6c1823_q.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Michigan%20Legislature%20Defers%20to%20the%20Public%20on%20Gas%20Tax "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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The House and Senate initially passed differing transportation funding measures. Both would have increased investment in Michigan roads however, the funding methods were [vastly different](http://www.michiganvotes.org/2014-HB-5477). With neither chamber willing to accept the other’s proposed solution, both plans were scrapped to make way for an alternative solution. The bipartisan deal brokered with hours left to spare on December 18, the final day of the session, will put a sales tax increase, from 6% to 7%, among other funding measures, in the hands of Michigan voters in a May 2015 election. In addition to the creation of the ballot measure the law also: - Increases vehicle registration fees by eliminating the 10% discount made available to new car buyers during their first three years of ownership. - Raises registration fees for commercial trucks, hybrid and electric vehicles. - Designates a portion of the additional revenue for transit. Friday’s vote means that Michiganders who head to the polls in May will be asked to vote on the following: *A PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE STATE CONSTITUTION TO ELIMINATE SALES AND USE TAXES ON GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL, ALLOW AN INCREASE IN THE SALES TAX RATE, DEDICATE REVENUE FOR SCHOOL AID, AND REVISE ELIGIBLE SCHOOL AID USES.* *The proposed constitutional amendment would:* - *Eliminate all sales or use taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel used in motor vehicles operated on public roads or highways beginning on October 1, 2015;* - *Allow an increase in the sales tax rate from 6 percent to 7 percent;* - *Activate other laws dedicating additional revenue for transportation purposes, including repair of roads, streets, and bridges;* - *Require state funds for school aid to be used exclusively for financial assistance for public school districts, community colleges, and career and technical education and related scholarships; and* - *Dedicate a portion of use tax revenue for school aid purposes.* *Should this proposal be adopted? YES \[ \] NO \[ \]* ASCE supports [increasing funding](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/) for operating, maintaining, and improving the transportation systems. While it is not the immediate increase we would have wanted the legislature to enact, ASCE does favor an all-options on the table approach and would encourage Michigan voters to vote “yes” on this critical measure. Carey Suhan, P.E., president of the Michigan Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) had this to offer: *“After last year’s harsh winter wreaked havoc on Michigan’s already aging and pothole-laden roads, Governor Snyder and the state legislature made positive, bipartisan strides today toward securing additional funding to improve the state’s roads and bridges. Now it is up to the voters to take the final step in May and approve the sales tax increase, which will raise $1.2 billion a year to invest in our transportation system.”* As we head into yet another winter, we encourage you to consider how you will cast your ballot come spring. “Yes” votes in May will take critical steps toward rehabilitating and modernizing Michigan’s infrastructure! 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The recently updated 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* highlights 20 new successful projects and initiatives that each improve our nation’s dams, bridges, roads, drinking water delivery system and other infrastructure. One such groundbreaking project is the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission’s Water Safety Improvement Program. While utilities nationwide are grappling with aging infrastructure, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) is making prudent and sustainable investments in their regional water system. For nearly a century, the Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System has been providing 2.6 million residents and businesses in the San Francisco Bay Area with reliable, high-quality drinking water. Not only is the system past its useful life, but major pipelines cross over three of the nation’s most active fault lines, making the system vulnerable to interruption in the event of an earthquake. For the SFPUC, rebuilding the water system was a race against time. The Water System Improvement Program (WSIP) launched in 2004 to make the water system more reliable and seismically safe. The $5 billion capital program is one of the largest infrastructure programs in the country, consisting of more than 80 projects in seven California counties. With the WSIP over 80% complete, the Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System is already significantly more redundant and seismically reliable due to the miles of new pipelines and critical tunnels installed to ensure water delivery within 24 hours of an earthquake. The WSIP also includes the Tesla Treatment Facility, which uses ultraviolet-light arrays to disinfect and treat water and is the largest ultraviolet treatment plant in California, as well as the five-mile long Bay Tunnel, which will be the very first tunnel under the San Francisco Bay. Through the WSIP, the SFPUC has invested $300 million in habitat restoration and watershed protection. The WSIP has been nationally recognized as an award-winning program, receiving 26 honors from the American Society of Civil Engineers, American Public Works Association, and others. With this program, the SFPUC has been able to improve system redundancy and service delivery for future generations. Check out the other infrastructure success story case studies by downloading the tablet app for your [Android device](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ASCE.ASCEInfrastructureReportCard2013) or [iPad](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/2013-report-card-for-americas/id603625735?ls=1&mt=8). The update also includes the latest state data and updated videos, charts and graphs. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=San%20Francisco%20Strengthens%20Water%20Pipelines%20Against%20Earthquake%20Vulnerabilities&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FRC-ap-Adv02.png&p%5Btitle%5D=San%20Francisco%20Strengthens%20Water%20Pipelines%20Against%20Earthquake%20Vulnerabilities "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=San%20Francisco%20Strengthens%20Water%20Pipelines%20Against%20Earthquake%20Vulnerabilities&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, Report Card for America's Infrastructure --- ### [Dams in 26 States Are Getting Some TLC](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dams-in-26-states-are-getting-some-tlc/) **Published:** December 30, 2014 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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perhaps one of the most unsung wins for infrastructure in 2014. The 2014 Farm Bill that Congress passed in the summer provided USDA with $262 million to distribute to states for rehabilitating dams. The funding provided [rehabilitation assistance for 150 dams](http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/landscape/wr/) in 26 states. This increased the typical annual investment in rehabilitation 20 times over! Dam infrastructure’s role in flood management, water supply, and agricultural productivity is critical to the economy. Here’s a quick breakdown of the Watershed Rehabilitation assistance by state: | **Project Name** | **Assistance Provided** | |---|---| | Arizona | $98,137,300 | | Texas | $33,842,975 | | Oklahoma | $26,420,000 | | West Virginia | $14,200,099 | | Utah | $12,655,000 | | Pennsylvania | $11,380,500 | | Massachusetts | $8,976,000 | | Nebraska | $7,515,236 | | Virginia | $7,285,000 | | Mississippi | $5,675,000 | | Colorado | $2,940,000 | | New York | $2,900,000 | | Tennessee | $2,300,000 | | Kansas | $1,751,000 | | Oregon | $1,374,000 | | Kentucky | $1,163,000 | | Ohio | $708,000 | | New Mexico | $600,000 | | Wyoming | $543,103 | | Connecticut | $450,000 | | Arkansas | $445,500 | | North Dakota | $294,000 | | Nevada | $280,000 | | Idaho | $249,000 | | Georgia | $225,000 | | New Hampshire | $50,000 | See if you recognize the Watershed Rehabilitation Projects in your state that are getting some TLC: AR: Muddy Fork of Illinois River AZ: Apache Junction-Gilbert AZ: Buckeye AZ: Florence AZ: Fredonia AZ: Guadalupe AZ: Magma AZ: White Tank Mountains AZ: Whiter Tank Mountains AZ: Williams Chandler CO: Boxelder Crk CO: Boxelder Crk WS CO: Franktown – Parker CO: Franktown-Parker Tributaries of Cherry Creek CT: Norwalk Site-2 GA: Little River GA: Palemetto Creek GA: Sallacoa ID: Montpelier Creek Dam KS: Little Walnut-Hickory KS: Muddy Creek KS: North Sector Upper Walnut KS: Rock Creek (Butler) KS: Spring Creek (Reno) KY: East Fork Clarks River KY: Red Lick Creek MA: Su-As-Co MS: Big Sand Creek Structure MS: Chiwapa Creek MS: Richland Creek ND: Tongue River NE: Indian Creek NE: Oak-Middle Creek Trib. of Salt Creek NE: Upper Big Nemaha NE: Upper Salt & Swedeburg NH: Site 8 So Br Dam (Baker Site 8) NM: Hackberry Draw NM: Santa Cruz Arroyo NV: Peavine Mountain NY: Conewango Creek NY: Ischua Creek Watershed NY: Little Choconut Creek Watershed NY: Little Choconut; Finch Hollow; and Trout Brook NY: Nanticoke Creek Watershed OH: Chippewa Creek OH: Margaret Creek OH: Upper Hocking OK: Barnitz OK: Cottonwood OK: Fourche Maline OK: Quapaw OK: Rock Creek OK: Sallisaw OK: Sallisaw Creek OK: Upper Black Bear OK: Upper Clear Boggy Creek OK: Upper Elk Creek OK: Washita – Barnitz Creek OK: Washita – Fort Cobb Laterals OR: Cooper Creek OR: Plat I PA: Brandywine Creek PA: Conneautville Dam PA: Greene-Dreher PA: Marsh Creek PA: Mill Creek PA: Mill Run PA: Neshaminy PA: Two Mile Run TN: Mary’s and Dan TN: Pine Creek TX: Calaveras Creek TX: Chambers Creek Trinity River TX: Lower Brushy Creek TX: Lower Plum Creek TX: Lower Running Water Draw TX: Martinez Creek TX: Olmitos & Garcias Creeks TX: Plum Creek TX: Trinity – Cedar Creek TX: Trinity – East Fork above Lavon TX: Trinity – East Fork above Lavon TX: Trinity – Mountain Creek TX: Trinity – Mountain Creek TX: Trinity River East Fork above Lavon TX: Trinity River East Fork above Lavon TX: Upper Brushy Creek TX: Williams Creek UT: American Fork – Dry Creek UT: Ferron UT: Glenwood UT: Monroe-Anabella UT: Santaquin UT: Warner Draw UT: Warner Draw Watershed VA: Cherrystone Creek VA: Johns Creek VA: Mountain Run VA: Pohick Creek VA: Potomac – South River VA: Potomac – Upper North River WV: Brush Creek WV: Potomac – New Creek – Whites Run WV: Upper Deckers Creek WV: Wheeling Creek WY: North Fork Powder River WY: North Fork Powder River Find out more at the [USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service](http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/landscape/wr/ "USDA NRCS"). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Dams%20in%2026%20States%20Are%20Getting%20Some%20TLC&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, dams, Farm Bill, safety, states --- ### [2014 ASCE Government Relations Year in Review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2014-asce-government-relations-year-in-review/) **Published:** January 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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profession. From the passage and enactment of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act in the spring and early summer, to the [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org "FixTheTrustFund") campaign throughout the summer, and state and local ballot initiatives supporting infrastructure investment this fall, we have much to celebrate.* # [![Gr-Legislative](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Gr-Legislative-150x150.jpg "masthead-2021asce-railroad")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Gr-Legislative.jpg)Federal Issues ## Passing the water resources reform & development act ASCE provided critical support leading to the enactment of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA). **Highlights** - Created a levee safety program - Solves long standing expenditure issues with the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund - Makes a number of long-sought changes to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund - Creates a new water infrastructure nancing program (WIFIA) ## Reauthorizing map-21 & highway trust fund [![400 x 400](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/400-x-400-150x150.jpg "background-asce-transit_0001_Transit-1_WSP")](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org) As a result of the society’s efforts, an immediate crisis to the Highway Trust Fund was averted and the program was extended until May 2015. Further effort will be necessary in 2015 to urge Congress to identify additional revenues to provide multi-year funding and project certainty. [![gr-Randy](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Randy-150x150.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Randy.jpg)ASCE President Randy Over, P.E., F.ASCE, with US Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony FoxxTo help educate elected off icials and the public, check out [FixTheTrustFund.org](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). ASCE participated in the Rally for Roads in June where members visited their members of Congress and promoted the #FixtheTrustFund message. We continued to promote our priorities for re-authorization of the federal surface transportation programs, including: - Increasing program funding and financing available to deliver projects - Focusing on freight to improve national economic competitiveness - Streamlining the environmental review process in a responsible way # [![gr-State](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-State-150x150.jpg "masthead-asce-railroad-darker")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-State.jpg)State Issues ## States Leading the Way Transportation infrastructure financing was again one of the top issues facing states in 2014, and ASCE played a key role in supporting measures across the country. ASCE actively supported the gas tax increase passed in New Hampshire during the 2014 session. Several transportation and infrastructure ballot measures that ASCE supported were approved by voters on Election Day. Measures that passed include: - California (bond measure to improve the state’s water storage and delivery system) - Hawaii (sale of special use bonds for dam and reservoir improvements) - Maine (water bond measure) - Maryland (“lockbox” for state Transportation Trust Fund) - Rhode Island (bonds to invest in transit infrastructure) - Texas (proposal to divert rainy day fund towards road improvements) - Wisconsin (constitutional protection “lockbox” for state transportation fund). ASCE Sections led the way by delivering legislative testimony in Minnesota (infrastructure funding) and Washington (continuing education and infrastructure funding), and producing legislative advocacy days in the capitols of Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, and Vermont. ## Partnering with Sections & Other Groups ASCE actively collaborated with Sections on issues in Alabama (dam safety), Illinois (opposition to erosion of QBS), New York (bridge investment), and New Jersey (passage of Good Samaritan legislation). [![gr-Sam](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Sam-150x150.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Sam.jpg)AK Representative Sam Kito PE MASCE and Dale Nelson PE FASCE assisted in presenting ASCE issues to state legislators at the NCSL meeting in Anchorage AKASCE continued our valuable partnerships with the Council of State Governments (CSG) and the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), through participation in forums that bring state legislative leaders together to discuss transportation issues and the challenges they are facing in their respective states. ## Raising the Bar State GR staff provided ongoing support to the Raise the Bar Committee, and assisted in government relations planning in several potential Raise the Bar target states. # [![gr-ReportCard](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-ReportCard-150x150.jpg "slideout-ASCE-railroad_0004_Intermodal-Bridge")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-ReportCard.jpg)Infrastructure Initiatives ## Growing the State Report Card Program ASCE volunteers worked, with help from ASCE staff, to release 8 state and local Infrastructure Report Cards in 2014 that have received unprecedented media coverage in their communities. - [Arkansas](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/arkansas/arkansas-overview/) - [Humboldt County (CA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/california/california-overview/) - [Georgia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/georgia/georgia-overview/) - [Illinois](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/illinois/illinois/) - [Montana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/montana/montana-overview/) - [Nevada](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nevada/nevada-overview/) - [Pennsylvania](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/pennsylvania/pennsylvania-overview/) - [Vermont](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vermont/vermont-overview/) From media interviews to billboards to legislative events, 100+ ASCE members volunteered with our Report Card efforts. ## Maximizing The Value Of Transportation Investments ASCE teamed with the Eno Center for Transportation to promote the bene ts of looking at life cycle costs early in transportation planning, producing a joint report, [“Maximizing the Value of Investments Using Life Cycle Cost Analysis”](http://www.asce.org/life_cycle_cost_analysis_report/). The report was released at a packed event on Capitol Hill with Federal Highway Administration leaders. ## Focusing on Business Leaders We are reaching the business community with our infrastructure message. ASCE partnered on two events this year with the St. Louis Chamber of Commerce and Georgia Chamber of Commerce to highlight the Report Card and infrastructure’s critical link to economic growth. # [![gr-Grassroots](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Grassroots-150x150.jpg "slideout-ASCE-railroad")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-Grassroots.jpg)Grassroots Advocacy *Calling Attention to Advocacy Efforts by Individual ASCE Members* ## [Key Contact Program](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts) - New Advocacy Pro les series on the ASCE Roundup highlighted member involvement in activities at the local, state and federal levels - Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year Awards honored members who went above and beyond for ASCE’s issues ## [Legislative Fly-In](http://www.asce.org/legislative_fly-in/) [![ASCE members from Florida take part in the 2014 Legislative Fly-In in Washington, DC](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Florida-group-w-credit-300x168.jpg "slideout-ASCE-_0002_Drinking Water 2_WSP")](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Florida-group-w-credit.jpg)ASCE members from Florida take part in the 2014 Legislative Fly In in Washington DC - 185 participants from 43 states - Meetings with over 200 Congressional offi ces - Additional ASCE members participated in the Transportation Construction Coalition Fly-In in June 2014 with over 200 members from our transportation industry coalition partners # [![gr-News](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-News-150x150.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/gr-News.jpg)Media Engagements ## 2014 Highlights 8,807 mentions in all 50 states and 15 countries around the world, including 5,969 Report Card mentions 347 stories appeared in major media outlets/wire services including: USA Today, LA Times, NBC News, CBS News, ABC News, Fox News, Chicago Tribune, NY Daily News, Time Magazine, NPR, Washington Post, MSNBC, U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, Reuters, AP and others ## Media Major Highlights - [NBC Nightly News](http://www.nbcnews.com/watch/nightly-news/water-main-break-floods-ucla-campus-313715267988 "NBC Nightly News") (7/31/14) interview with Casey Dinges - [Marketplace radio](http://www.marketplace.org/topics/economy/fixing-aging-infrastructure-can-cost-billions "Marketplace radio") (Aug. 2014) interview with Greg DiLoreto about aging water infrastructure following water main break near UCLA campus - [60 Minutes](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/wDHgIRBoeP_q4gHkLL0kheu_bLmCiFD9/preview-falling-apart/ "60 Minutes") interview with Andy Herrmann about the state of nation’s bridges – 11/23/14 [![60-minutes](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/60-minutes1-300x176.jpg)](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/wDHgIRBoeP_q4gHkLL0kheu_bLmCiFD9/preview-falling-apart/) Download [](/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/year-in-review-gr-2014.pdf)[2014 Government Relations Year in Review](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/year-in-review-gr-2014-FINAL.pdf) as a PDF to print out or share with colleagues. 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20Year%2C%20New%20Congress%2C%20New%20Hope%20for%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F01%2F2907001404_f9f16c34e9_o-224x300.jpg&description=New%20Year%2C%20New%20Congress%2C%20New%20Hope%20for%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Pin it with 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mlhradio](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2907001404_f9f16c34e9_o-224x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/2907001404_f9f16c34e9_o.jpg)Photo credit mlhradioIt’s a new year, and with a new Congress in session, there is hope that a federal funding solution for infrastructure can soon be reached. Congress has given us reasons to be optimistic, with more bipartisan support for infrastructure funding buzzing at the federal level. Upon reflecting on the past year’s [infrastructure challenges](http://publicradiotulsa.org/post/outset-2015-consideration-americas-unsettlingly-poor-and-worsening-infrastructure), ranging from [water main failures](http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2015/01/05/water-leaks-a-constant-battle.html) to increased [highway congestion](http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/mailbag/stop-gridlock-in-dc-fix-gridlock-on-roads/article_e7d450b2-d482-566b-b9a1-8459b91ed735.html) and a renewed focus on [bridge disrepair](http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/video/wDHgIRBoeP_q4gHkLL0kheu_bLmCiFD9/preview-falling-apart/), many lawmakers from both political parties are pressing for funding solutions which no longer rule out a possible [gas tax increase](http://www.wkrg.com/story/27761909/federal-gas-tax-increase-being-considered--). Senate Republican Environment and Public Works Chairman James Inhofe [indicated more open mindedness toward raising the federal gas tax](http://blogs.wsj.com/washwire/2015/01/08/senate-republicans-higher-gas-taxes-are-on-the-table/) to solve our transportation infrastructure deficit. Inhofe said that “everything is on the table,” and that his top priority is passing a long-term transportation bill. [Senator John Thune (R-S.D.) also agreed](http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/228833-key-gop-senator-says-gas-tax-hike-possible) that Republicans should leave the door open for a gas tax increase, but defended it as a “user fee,” which ensures each driver pays his or her fair share. In addition to discussing a gas tax increase, legislators are carefully considering other options to fund infrastructure. [Senator Bernie Sanders](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=36959&t=Sen-Sanders-to-Introduce-Infrastructure-Bill) (I-Vt.) plans to [introduce a bill](http://www.gobytrucknews.com/new-infrastructure-bill-coming/123) in the new session of Congress to “authorize $1 trillion in spending over several years to rebuild the nation’s roads and bridges and invest in other infrastructure modernization projects.” [Speaker of the House John Boehner noted](http://blogs.rollcall.com/218/boehner-leaves-door-open-on-gas-tax-proposal/?dcz=) that figuring out how to fund the highway bill is an important priority for this year. State governments are also starting the new year with plans to fund infrastructure. [Virginia](http://wavy.com/2015/01/01/new-year-brings-higher-gas-tax-in-va/), [Pennsylvania](http://www.goerie.com/pa-gas-tax-increase-set-for-jan-1) and [North Carolina](http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/nc-gas-tax-increases/njd5N/) have all recently increased their state gas taxes to help fund state transportation projects. In [Minnesota](http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/opinion/columns/3646976-senators-view-new-year-offers-new-opportunity-progress), Sen. Amy Klobuchar plans to work across party lines to help pass a long-term transportation bill that will fund projects in her state. While state-level funding efforts are worthwhile, in order to meet the [necessary infrastructure investment needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home), we need a long-term, sustainable federal funding solution. Hopefully Congress can compromise on a funding solution before the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) goes insolvent again in May. 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Cissé](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/9239073967_dfe98e37a0_z-300x202.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/9239073967_dfe98e37a0_z.jpg)Photo Credit Ousseynou CisséWith Congress mapping out transportation plans for the upcoming year and the increasing need for infrastructure investment, it is critical that lawmakers work expeditiously and in a bipartisan manner to address our nation’s dire [infrastructure needs.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home) ASCE applauds the Obama Administration’s announcement this week on increasing private investment to infrastructure through its Build America Investment Initiative. [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/obama-administration-outlines-30-year-transportation-plan/2015/01/12/b15daf6a-9a60-11e4-a7ee-526210d665b4_story.html) revealed that the White House’s 30-Year Transportation Plan will address funding needs in light of the nation’s rapid population growth and aging infrastructure. Fox indicated, “We must make our solutions as big as our problems” and warned that “not having a plan is the same as having a plan to fail.” A recent [New York Times](http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/11/opinion/sunday/raise-the-gas-tax-to-fix-americas-roads.html?_r=2) article restated the spiral effects of our country’s insufficient road and transit systems. These subpar transit systems cost our country billions in increased delays, extra fuel costs and auto repair bills. Not to mention poor road conditions contribute to about [one-third of all traffic fatalities](http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/docs/economic_analysis_of_transportation_investments.pdf), or about 10,000 deaths a year. With time running out to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/), we hope that members of Congress will work together to pass legislation that will provide long-term sustainable funding for America’s surface transportation systems. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Increased%20Optimism%20for%20Infrastructure%20Funding%20Fix&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, report card --- ### [Infrastructure Quotes from the State of the Union](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-quotes-from-the-state-of-the-union/) **Published:** January 22, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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of](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/That’s-why-the-third-part-of-300x225.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/That’s-why-the-third-part-of.png)The State of the Union is the time for some of the most pressing issues of the day to be highlighted, and infrastructure certainly made the list in the 2015 State of the Union. Here is what the President had to say about America’s infrastructure: **We gave our citizens schools and colleges, infrastructure and the Internet, tools they needed to go as far as their efforts and their dreams will take them. That’s what middle-class economics is: the idea that this country does best when everyone gets their fair shot, everyone does their fair share, everyone plays by the same set of rules.** **\_\_\_\_** **That’s why the third part of middle-class economics is all about building the most competitive economy anywhere, the place where businesses want to locate and hire.** **21st century businesses need 21st century infrastructure: modern ports, and stronger bridges, faster trains and the fastest Internet.** **\_\_\_\_** **Democrats and Republicans used to agree on this. So let’s set our sights higher than a single oil pipeline; let’s pass a bipartisan …** **… infrastructure plan that could create more than 30 times as many jobs per year and make this country stronger for decades to come.** **Let’s do it. Let’s get it done.** **\_\_\_\_** **Now, the truth is when it comes to issues like infrastructure and basic research, I know there’s bipartisan support in this chamber. Members of both parties have told me so.** **Where we too often run onto the rocks is how to pay for these investments. As Americans, we don’t mind paying our fair share of taxes, as long as everybody else does too.** **\_\_\_\_** **That’s why the third part of middle-class economics is all about building the most competitive economy anywhere, the place where businesses want to locate and hire.** **21st century businesses need 21st century infrastructure: modern ports, and stronger bridges, faster trains and the fastest Internet.** [Listen to the full 2015 State of the Union address here.](www.whitehouse.gov/sotu "SOTU") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure, President, SOTU --- ### [Capitol Hill Buzzing with Infrastructure Funding Proposals](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/capitol-hill-buzzing-with-infrastructure-funding-proposals/) **Published:** January 23, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Capitol%20Hill%20Buzzing%20with%20Infrastructure%20Funding%20Proposals&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F01%2F13859755804_3f99bf33c8_z1-300x200.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Capitol%20Hill%20Buzzing%20with%20Infrastructure%20Funding%20Proposals "Share on 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sustainable funding solution for our nation’s infrastructure is within grasp. As both parties of Congress struggle to agree on how infrastructure should be funded, our nation’s infrastructure continues to decline. Almost one-third of our roads are in poor or mediocre condition and more than 40 percent of urban highways are congested. One in nine bridges is structurally deficient, and nearly a quarter are functionally obsolete. Restoring our nation’s infrastructure into a good state of repair will require nearly $3.6 trillion in investment by 2020, leaving us $1.6 trillion short based on current funding levels. In his [State of the Union address](http://time.com/3675705/full-text-state-union-2015/), President Obama declared that Congress needs to pass a bipartisan infrastructure plan that will create more than 30 times as many jobs per year and strengthen the country’s economy. The president also proposed a [change in the tax code](http://www.sunherald.com/2015/01/20/6028134_infrastructure-on-obamas-state.html?rh=1) to encourage the private sector to invest in infrastructure through low-interest municipal bonds. Though President Obama’s push for infrastructure funding through tax reform is encouraging, many believe that our infrastructure funding needs require a different course of action. [AAA CEO Robert Darbelnet announced](http://newsroom.aaa.com/tag/robert-darbelnet/) in a statement Tuesday that, “The president’s proposal to leverage corporate tax reform or private investment structures to support transportation funding would provide a welcome shot in the arm for our nation’s infrastructure, but this will not provide a sustainable fix to the looming funding crisis at hand.” In the House of Representatives, Cong. John Delaney and Pennsylvania Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick have co-sponsored [The Partnership to Build America Act](http://www.wfmd.com/articles/wfmd-local-news-119935/congressmen-delaney-fitzpatrick-introduce-infrastructure-bill-13169778). This bipartisan act will establish a $50 billion infrastructure fund generated by bond sales which will loan money to state and local governments to repair infrastructure. While these proposals for infrastructure funding are certainly promising, the Highway Trust Fund is headed toward insolvency in a matter of months. It’s critical that members of Congress work together to pass legislation that will provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#Fix the Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) before the money runs out. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Capitol%20Hill%20Buzzing%20with%20Infrastructure%20Funding%20Proposals&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure investment --- ### [Virginia's Infrastructure Struggle for Status Quo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginias-infrastructure-struggle-for-status-quo/) **Published:** January 23, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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growing pains, but none are as striking or obvious as the traffic gridlock across the state. So, would you be surprised that the Virginia Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers gave roads a D grade in their new [*2015 Report Card for Virginia’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/2015-Report-Card-for-Virginia-Infrastructure-Brochure1.pdf "VA Report Card")[![VA RC](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/VA-RC-234x300.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia/virginia-overview/)? While some big steps were taken by the legislature in 2013 to bring renewed funding to transportation, may end up only keeping the status quo of transportation troubles across the state whether by car or transit. Another growing pain issue for Virginia is there are a lot of dams in the state (1,789 to be exact) and the number of people that now live behind old dams has increased with the growth of the state. The majority of dams were constructed between 1950 and 1975, making the average age more than 50 years old. With an increasing population, more houses and businesses are now below dams which means there’s more risk for damage and lives being lost if there was a failure. The good news is that Virginia has made a lot of progress in identifying and educating owners on how to fix dams that are considered high-hazard, but the bad news is that 141 of these high-hazard dams do not meet current dam safety standards, resulting in a grade of [C for Virginia’s dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia/dams/ "Dams"). Growth is also affecting schools as localities try to keep up with growing schools in some areas and older school maintenance in localities that seem to be losing students and residents. Not only is Virginia growing, but its infrastructure is also starting to show its age with basic services like [water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia/drinking-water/ "water"), [wastewater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia/wastewater/ "wastewater"), and [stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia/stormwater/ "stormwater")representing the old infrastructure bones of the cities. Virginia’s 2,830 public water systems providing drinking water to more than 7 million Virginians, and the Report Card found that many of these systems are 70 years or older and require significant asset renewal in the immediate future. The bad news is that funding is slim – from 2000 to 2012, the state only saw $200 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, which is less than 10% of the commonwealth’s total investment needs. Wastewater needs have jumped 45%, and best estimates show $1 billion is needed to control overflows that pollute local waters. Also, stormwater systems are equally old, and surveys show about one-third of the infrastructure is older than 50 years and much of the remainder was built 25 to 50 years ago. While every bit of funding helps, the reality is Virginia’s water systems are only getting older each day and each dollar available is being split between trying to fix yesterday’s problems and today’s. Growth and age are like a one-two punch to Virginia’s infrastructure causing a real struggle to maintain an acceptable level of infrastructure service for the state. Virginia’s C- infrastructure shows the Commonwealth is barely maintaining the status quo, and without significant change, it will be a struggle to maintain even the current gridlock of roads and frequent water pipe breaks without new solutions. In the Report Card, they give 3 solutions to raise Virginia’s grades: 1\. **Increase Leadership in Infrastructure Renewal**: Virginia’s infrastructure is the responsibility of all our leaders. We need bold leadership and a vision for how strategic infrastructure investment can improve the current status quo. 2\. **Promote Sustainability and Resilience**: Today’s infrastructure must meet the state’s needs in the best and worst of times, and also protect and improve the environment and our quality of life. 3\. **Develop Comprehensive Strategies**: Virginia should prioritize and execute infrastructure strategies that put our investments where they are needed most, according to well-conceived plans that focus on comprehensive solutions that provide a good return on investment. The Virginia legislature is just getting started, and there is no better time for them to take a second look at the infrastructure they are responsible for than now with a fresh update from the civil engineers who work on the state’s infrastructure every day. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Virginia%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Struggle%20for%20Status%20Quo&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Virginia, Wastewater **Tags:** dams, infrastructure, resilience, schools, stormwater, sustainability, Virginia, wastewater, water --- ### [The Power of a Coalition](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-power-of-a-coalition/) **Published:** January 26, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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courtesy Shutterstockcom*The following is a guest post by Kevin M. Burke, President and CEO of Airports Council International-North America.* Prior to joining Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) as its president and CEO in January 2014, I spent 13 years at the helm of the American Apparel & Footwear Association. In my role at AAFA, I traveled frequently, visiting manufacturers across the world. One thing that always struck me was that in many developing countries, their airports were exceptional facilities. The U.S. is home to far and away the world’s safest commercial aviation system, of which our airports play a fundamental part. But making sure that our airports continue to connect passengers and cargo shippers safely, securely, and efficiently to opportunities throughout the world requires fresh thinking in how we invest in upgrading and modernizing aging facilities. Here in the U.S., we have a spate of infrastructure and capital improvement projects ready to tackle at airports of all sizes—from our smallest regional airports to our largest international hubs. All told, there are [more than $71 billion in projects necessary in the next few years](http://www.aci-na.org/sites/default/files/2013_capital_needs_survey_report.pdf) just for us to keep pace with increasing capacity demands and the intended lifespan of current facilities. As other modes of transportation are well aware, though, it’s one thing to identify that we need to make investments in infrastructure, and another challenge entirely to agree on how to fund these projects. That’s where the power of a coalition emerges. For airports, our fiscal course is set by FAA Reauthorization, which is reviewed by Congress every five years. With 2015 being such a year, our efforts actually began in earnest in the summer of 2014, with the launch of [AirportsUnited](http://www.airportsunited.com/) and the bringing together of not just our traditional airport partners, but also allies across a broad spectrum of interests and industries. To date, [the AirportsUnited Beyond the Runway coalition](http://www.airportsunited.com/#!partners/c22a5)—of which we’re proud to call ASCE a member—is more than 20 strong, ranging from travel and tourism to construction and engineering. By joining together under the same banner, we share a dynamic, unified voice on behalf of U.S. airports and [the tremendous economic contribution they make](http://www.aci-na.org/sites/default/files/economic_impact_of_commercial_aviation_2013.pdf). We’ve got our work cut out for us over these next several months, but as our coalition can readily attest, a global leader deserves world-leading infrastructure, and U.S. airports are no exception. 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Senator%E2%80%99s%202020%20Vision%20For%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Aging infrastructure, [graded at a D+ national GPA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), is no secret. In fact, [it is the news each and every day](https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&gl=us&tbm=nws&authuser=0&q=infrastructure&oq=infrastructure&gs_l=news-cc.3..43j0j43i53.1340.2709.0.2822.14.4.0.10.10.0.58.200.4.4.0...0.0...1ac.1.iGrI_qt5tng). From a [water main break that hindered a morning commute in DC](http://www.wjla.com/articles/2014/12/metro-service-suspended-in-d-c-due-to-water-main-break-109837.html), to the potholes that inhibit safe driving, Americans across the country are experiencing inconveniences and challenges because of deficient roads, bridges, water pipes and other infrastructure. Furthermore, we have an investment shortfall across our major infrastructure sectors of just over $200 billion a year. Underinvesting in these vital systems costs us more in the long run. Today, [Sen. Sanders shared his bill as a vision to better fund infrastructure](http://thehill.com/opinion/op-ed/230808-lets-rebuild-america) and address the backlog of needs. As the new ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, Sen. Sanders is taking the o[pportunity to introduce a $1 trillion, five-year plan for the nation’s infrastructure](http://www.budget.senate.gov/democratic/public/index.cfm/blog?ID=3d1eef89-1dcb-491b-8f10-5cf22fd9c313). The measure would inject an additional $75 billion a year into the Highway Trust Fund, create a national infrastructure bank and expand financing and grant programs. Additionally, it would fund freight and passenger rail improvements, airports, water projects, ports and inland waterways and national parks, along with broadband and electric networks. ASCE’s Casey Dinges joined the Senator from Vermont to share our vision of what needs to happen to improve our nation’s infrastructure. During his remarks, Casey said “By taking steps to invest in our nation’s infrastructure, [the U.S. can protect $3.1 trillion in GDP](http://www.asce.org/failure_to_act_economic_studies/), $1.1 trillion in U.S. trade value and 3.5 million jobs and a little over $3,000 a year per family. Without these investments, infrastructure – the backbone of our nation’s economy – will continue to decline and Americans will pay the price.” With the need to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) looming ahead, this bill is a positive step in the conversation and a good reminder that inaction is not an option. 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Senator%E2%80%99s%202020%20Vision%20For%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, aviation, bridges, report card, roads, transportation --- ### [States Head to the Hill to Talk Transportation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-head-to-the-hill-to-talk-transportation/) **Published:** January 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works hosted U.S. DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx, the governors of Alabama and Vermont, and the South Dakota DOT secretary to discuss the need to [fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). Sec. Foxx told the committee, “Gridlock in Washington is now creating gridlock on Main Street.” In his testimony, he identified the challenges of operating a federal program that continually has short-term policy and funding extensions, concluding that these tactics are “Literally killing \[the states\] will to build.” The state representatives offered their unique perspectives on how short-term surface transportation bills hinder their ability to effectively plan and executive projects. Gov. Robert Bentley (AL-R) talked about [why the federal government needs to continue as a trusted partner](http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/01/gov_bentley_pitches_congress_o.html) “so that states can plan for and make infrastructure improvements,” and emphasized that “A long-term federal transportation reauthorization will provide certainty,” connecting transportation investment to economic development. Gov. Peter Shumlin (VT-D) focused on [how smaller states, such as his, have fewer funding resources](http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/story/news/politics/2015/01/28/shumlin-small-states-need-transportation-bill/22489497/) and therefore depend on the federal government to fund projects through the Highway Trust Fund. He stated that “When there is uncertainty about funding…we’re in a terrible position of having to dig for cash that we didn’t anticipated we would need” or putting projects on hold. South Dakota DOT Secretary Darin Bergquist echoed the two governors’ sentiments, [speaking about the challenges specifically in his state caused by a smaller population and longer winter](http://www.argusleader.com/story/news/2015/01/28/highway-funding-states-alone/22487475/). “States cannot do it alone,” he said. “We need a strong federal program.” This hearing is one in a series centered around the Highway Trust Fund and the law that governs it – MAP-21 – [which is set to expire in May if Congress does not act](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Head%20to%20the%20Hill%20to%20Talk%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, surface transportation --- ### [Advocate Profile: Steve Randolph](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/advocate-profile-steve-randolph/) **Published:** January 30, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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America.](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Randolph_ASCE-200x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/Randolph_ASCE.jpg)Randolph speaking at Repair America Infrastructure Roundtablean event sponsored by the BlueGreen Alliance and Repair America*Steve Randolph P.E. is an active member of ASCE’s St. Louis section, where he is currently the section president. He is an Environmental Project Manager at Horner & Shifrin, Inc., a multidisciplinary engineering firm in St. Louis, Mo. As a project manager, he is responsible for planning and executing environmental engineering projects according to schedules and budgets. His specialty areas include storm water management, flood studies, and water distribution.* *Randolph received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Washington University in St. Louis, and his MBA in finance from Webster University in St. Louis, Mo.* *If you are interested in becoming involved with ASCE’s Key Contact Program and promoting the profession through advocacy, learn more information and sign up at asce.org/keycontacts.* **How did you become interested in and get involved in advocacy for your profession?** I’ve always had an interest in politics and seriously considered political science as a major in college. Joining the St. Louis Section’s Government Relations Committee seemed a perfect way to meld my interest in politics to my profession of civil engineering. Also, becoming a Key Contact was one of the earliest and easiest ways to get started in this area. **What issues have you highlighted/focused on when communicating with your legislators?** I’ve pretty much stuck to issues that are in line with the Society’s initiative to raise the grades on America’s infrastructure such as surface transportation, the Highway Trust Fund and the Water Resources Reform and Development Act. In my home state of Missouri, I was involved in our State Infrastructure Report Card and participated in a legislative drive-in where our group lobbied for a bill that would fund transportation infrastructure with three-quarter cent sales tax. I’ve also had a couple of letters to the editor and op-ed pieces published in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. **What levels of government have you focused your efforts on? (Local, state, federal) Is there something that prompted you to focus your efforts there?** My efforts have been at state and federal level. That seems to be where most of the funding originates. On the federal level, I’ve participated in three legislative ASCE Fly-Ins and participated in local events by Missouri’s Senators Claire McCaskill and Roy Blunt. I also keep in touch with my Congressman Lacy Clay’s Legislative Counsel, Pauline Jamry. Last November, I represented ASCE at an event called, “Repair America Infrastructure Roundtable.” This was an event sponsored by the BlueGreen Alliance and Repair America to inform the public about the importance of infrastructure investment as it relates to our nation’s economy and job creation. I’m currently working with ASCE’s Government Relations staff to help set up a joint breakfast meeting sponsored by ASCE, the St. Louis Chamber of Commerce and the Associated General Contractors of St. Louis. Building America’s Future is providing former Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood as the keynote speaker. We will present our State Report Card at the event and have a panel of local experts to discuss the importance of infrastructure funding to the local economy. Hopefully it will also promote the proposed three-quarter cent sales tax issue that I mentioned earlier. **Do you offer your expertize beyond that of a traditional citizen lobbyist for the public’s benefit (i.e. media interviews)?** I did a couple of newspaper interviews when we rolled out the Missouri State Infrastructure Report Card but nothing beyond that. **How do you gather information and prepare to do your advocacy work?** The issue briefs distributed at the legislative ASCE Fly-Ins are a great source of information as are the weekly “This Week in Washington” email newsletters. The ASCE, Politico and Washington Post websites are also great resources for federal issues. ASCE’s Government Relations Staff in Washington, D.C. is invaluable. Whenever I’ve asked them for help, they are always ready, willing and enthusiastic to assist. On the state and local level, our local newspaper, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, is my main resource. ASCE’s State Government Relations Staff is top-notch and always eager to help. **What have you learned through your activities as an ASCE advocate and citizen lobbyist?** I’ve become much more aware of the inextricable link between infrastructure and the economy. You cannot have a thriving economy without first-class infrastructure. I’ve also learned that our legislators want to hear from their constituents. My encounters with my state and federal representatives as well as their staff have always been pleasant and friendly. **Has the experience helped you improve skills you utilize personally or professionally?** Yes. I believe that I’ve become a more effective communicator, especially in face-to-face meetings. Also, I believe that I’ve become more proficient with time management. Incorporating these volunteer activities with my job and family obligations has forced me to allocate my time more efficiently. **What has been challenging about being an advocate? What methods have you found effective in working through those challenges? What sort of pitfalls or setbacks have you encountered? And how did you overcome them?** The hardest part is just getting started. You need to fight the urge to sit on the couch and be a spectator. It helps to have colleagues that share your interest because you can encourage one another and provide support. Randy Perkinson of the St. Louis Section was a great mentor on my first legislative ASCE Fly-In. He really helped me navigate my way on Capitol Hill and through the meetings with legislators and staff. The St. Louis Section’s Government Relations Committee also provides leadership and support. Dennis Boll, our Committee Chairperson, is passionate about infrastructure advocacy and his enthusiasm is contagious. Having younger members involved also helps to work through challenges because you assume a mentorship role that keeps you engaged. For example, our legislative drive-in included two of our Section’s younger members, Alison Graves and Kyle Klues. This was their first time meeting with their state legislators and it was a lot of fun guiding them through the experience and providing advice when requested. One setback for the St. Louis Section occurred when one of our U.S. Congressional Representatives (Rep. Russ Carnahan-D) lost his bid for reelection in 2012. We had established a good working relationship with Rep. Carnahan and his local staff and had engaged them in discussions to arrange a series of speaking engagements in the St. Louis area to promote infrastructure investment. Unfortunately, due to redistricting by the state legislature, Rep. Carnahan’s district was redrawn so that he would have to run against another Democrat (Rep. Lacy Clay) in the primary and Rep. Carnahan was defeated. Our plans grinded to a stop and we have yet to get them rolling again. We’ve made some overtures to Rep. Clay’s office but have yet to create the same working relationship with Mr. Clay that we had with Mr. Carnahan. We’re considering changing our strategy with Representative Clay to try and engage him on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) issues rather than infrastructure. Indications from his staff indicate that STEM is a topic on which he may be more interested. **What have you found rewarding about your efforts? Have you felt that your efforts have made a difference? How? Is there a particularly memorable experience you can share?** My advocacy efforts are rewarding to me because I do think they make a difference. I think it’s easy to sit back and criticize our politicians and the legislative process but I don’t think that’s a very effective way to promote change. I’ve found that the idea of infrastructure investment has bipartisan support but that both sides don’t always agree on how to fund the investment. I think it helps that ASCE supports all manners of investment and is open to a variety of methods including user fees, tolls and public-private partnerships. I think that helps our voices be heard when we talk about infrastructure issues. My most memorable experience was my first legislative ASCE Fly-In (2012). It was my first trip to Washington D.C. and I was excited to finally visit our nation’s capital. That year, on the first day of the ASCE Fly-In, there was an event called “Rally for Roads” taking place on the National Mall. ASCE members that were in D.C. that morning were encouraged to attend. Randy Perkinson and I had an early-morning flight that day and arrived in Washington with just enough time to catch a cab and make it to the rally. Arriving at the National Mall, under the shadow of the Washington Monument and joining the hundreds of people gathered there in support of the transportation bill was invigorating. **What advice would you give to someone interested in getting involved in advocacy?** Jump in, the water’s fine. Start with becoming a Key Contact and subscribe to ASCE’s, “This Week in Washington.” Volunteer for your Branch or Section’s Government Relations Committee. I think once you get started, you won’t want to stop. 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@jonathanweisman, New York Times economic policy reporter](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Obama-budget-232x300.jpg)](http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget "Link to the Obama FY16 budget")Photo of the cover of President Obamas FY16 Budget photo credit Twitter image via Jonathan Weisman *The New York Times* economic policy reporter**Transportation** Today’s fiscal year 2016 (FY16) budget release by President Obama was particularly generous to infrastructure programs. The President is proposing a $478 billion, six-year surface transportation (MAP-21) reauthorization proposal titled the [GROW AMERICA Act](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america "GROW AMERICA Act") paid for by taxing companies’ overseas profits. The bill length is historically similar to other long-term highway & transit bill authorizations, and the funding amount would be enough to plug the projected annual $13 billion Highway Trust Fund shortfall and grow the program by more than $10 billion over the next six years. While Obama’s budget does not call for an increase in the gasoline tax, as some members of Congress have [proposed ](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2015/01/11/corker-calls-federal-gas-tax-hike/21603217/ "Gas tax news story")and ASCE [supports](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/authorization-of-the-nation-s-surface-transportation-funding-program--a-blueprint-for-success/ "ASCE policy"), if enacted, this proposal would allow for increased program certainty for the short-term while Congress continues to debate identifying a long-term, sustainable funding fix the program. The tax piece of this plan would establish deemed repatriation at a 14% tax rate for existing overseas earnings and end tax deferral going forward with a 19% tax on future offshore corporate profits. The budget also calls for the establishment of a number of tax incentives and tax-credit bonds as part of the President’s Rebuild America Partnership which was launched last year and is focused on ways to increase the amount of private capital invested in US infrastructure. The budget calls for the creation of an independent National Infrastructure Bank to support infrastructure projects of national and regional significance, and creates America Fast Forward Bonds and tax-exempt Qualified Public Infrastructure Bonds to help state and local governments attract new sources of capital for infrastructure projects. ASCE has and will continue to work with the Obama Administration to help shape this public-private partnerships (P3) initiative. **Environment, Energy and Water Resources** As a part of President Obama’s continued effort to address climate change, the budget invests heavily in resilience and preparedness programs. The budget notes that the federal government has incurred over $300 billion in direct costs due to extreme weather and fire over the last decade. The budget creates two new coastal resilience programs aimed at help reduce the risks of climate change to ecosystems and communities. The budget also provides $20 million for the Climate Resilience Toolkit. The budget provides tax credits for clean energy programs like wind and solar and over $4 billion to help states implement the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) carbon emissions mandate known as the Clean Power Plan. The budget bolsters EPA’s overall spending by 9% to $8.6 billion, but cuts $54 million from the State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs, leaving $900 million for drinking water and $1.4 billion for clean water. The budget provides $4.7 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers Civil Works Program, focusing on investments that will yield high economic and environmental return or address a significant risk to public safety, but cuts the operation & maintenance program by $199 million. Finally, the budget includes the Administration’s legislative proposal to reform the laws governing the Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF), including an annual per vessel fee to increase the amount paid by commercial navigation users enough to meet their share of IWTF-funded activities. The additional revenue would help finance future capital investments in these waterways, which are part of the Nation’s freight transportation infrastructure. **STEM Education** The President’s budget provides more than $3 billion on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, a 3.6% increase over 2015 enacted levels. The budget provides strong support for STEM education, including a new $125 million competitive program to promote the redesign of America’s high schools by integrating deeper learning and student-centered instruction, with a particular focus on STEM-themed high schools that expand opportunities for girls and other groups underrepresented in STEM fields. **Research** The President’s budget request includes a significant increase in proposed research funding, noting that US long-term economic competitiveness depends upon continued robust investment in research and development (R&D). The budget provides a 6 percent increase for R&D, including significant investments in basic research and advanced manufacturing technology. Among the specifics the budget provides the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science with over $5.3 billion and the National Science Foundation (NSF) with over $7.7 billion. The budget also provides $755 million for the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) laboratories. The budget increases total funding for these three key basic research agencies by $700 million over the 2015 level, bringing the total to $13.8 billion. 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seem that a long-term outlook for our transportation system is not top-of-mind. However, the U.S. Department of Transportation yesterday started a conversation to get Americans talking about where our transportation network should go in the next 30 years. The Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, joined Google’s Eric Schmidt for a Google Talk to discuss these challenges and opportunities. [Watch the full conversation](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dBA-D4mbd-I), which includes questions ranging from pedestrian safety to high-speed rail. Sec. Foxx also introduced the draft of *[Beyond Traffic: A Blue Paper,](http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Draft_Beyond_Traffic_Framework.pdf)* which is now available for [review and open for comments](http://www.dot.gov/beyondtraffic). During the drafting process, ASCE members shared their ideas during visioning workshops. The blue paper identifies three strategies to decrease traffic and enhance our transportation system. [Sec. Foxx shares them in his letter to the reader](http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Draft_Beyond_Traffic_Framework.pdf) (p.iii-vi): - Take better care of America’s legacy transportation systems - Build what is new and necessary, while considering how it can adapt in the future - Use technologies and better design approaches that will maximize our old and new transportation assets These key strategies will require a greater investment in transportation infrastructure and more adaptive policymaking by all levels of government. The paper assesses transportation trends for how we move people and goods and fund transportation projects, looks at the implications for seven transportation systems in the U.S., and offers suggestions for shaping the future of transportation. Take the opportunity to [learn about where the U.S. DOT envisions](http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/Draft_Beyond_Traffic_Framework.pdf) transportation will go and [contribute your own thoughts, expertise and experiences to the process](http://www.dot.gov/beyondtraffic). 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email")](mailto:?subject=USDOT%20Proposes%20We%20Move%20Beyond%20Traffic&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Airports, highway trust fund, Mass Transit, ports, rail transportation, transportation --- ### [ASCE Endorses an UPDATE to the Gas Tax](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-endorses-an-update-to-the-gas-tax/) **Published:** February 5, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Change Order")](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Road-Gas-Tax.jpg)Twenty-two years ago ‘I Will Always Love You’ was the top song on the Billboard charts, a loaf of bread cost $0.75, and *Unforgiven* won the Oscar for Best Picture. A lot has changed since then, yet the gas tax rate that funds our transportation system has remained the same. Yesterday, the American Society of Civil Engineers stood with Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) in support of a bill that would change that. Rep. Blumenauer, along with more than 20 cosponsors, introduced the “Update, Promote, and Develop America’s Transportation Essentials” (UPDATE) Act. UPDATE offers a long-term, sustainable solution to fix the Highway Trust Fund by increasing the gas tax to recoup the purchasing power it has lost due to inflation since 1993. The bill proposes the gas tax to be raised 5 cents per year for the next three years, then tie it to inflation. With one in nine bridges in the U.S. structurally deficient and congestion on 42 percent of America’s urban highways, our country is in need of an increased investment in our transportation system. ASCE’s Executive Director Tom Smith joined representatives from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American Trucking Associations, and other groups to support the bill. In his remarks, Smith said: “The federal motor fuels tax, which funded the creation of America’s Interstate Highway System, hasn’t been increased in over 20 years and has lost more than one-third of its purchasing power. Essentially, we’re trying to pay for 2015 infrastructure with 1993 dollars. “This bill will provide long-term, sustainable funding to meet identified needs and revitalize our nation’s transportation network for decades to come.” Without Congressional action, the [Highway Trust Fund](https://fixthetrustfund.org/)’s authorization expires in May, and the funding will run out in the summer—during the height of road construction improvement season. Rep. Blumenauer’s bill would ensure the trust is restored in the Highway Trust Fund, by allowing states to effectively plan long-term projects knowing the federal government will be a continued partner in funding. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Endorses%20an%20UPDATE%20to%20the%20Gas%20Tax&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, surface transportation --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Federal Funding Proposals Outline Roadmap for the Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-federal-funding-proposals-outline-roadmap-for-the-future/) **Published:** February 6, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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AMERICA act](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america) and testimonies of transit needs in the media, our nation’s beleaguered infrastructure is getting some much-needed attention. One blaring example of the our nation’s urban transit needs is evident in James Robertson’s now viral story of walking 21 miles as part of his commute to and from work in Metro Detroit due to lack of transit. While this is an extreme case, Metro Detroit’s transit options have become fewer over the last five years. [The Detroit Free Press](http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/contributors/2015/02/04/transit-fixes-metro-detroit/22874021/) reported that tens of thousands of Detroit residents have limited or zero access to public transit that meets their core needs, echoing the Report Card’s assessment that 45 percent of households don’t have access to transit. According to the Detroit Free Press, the cascading effect of transit needs is critical as, “cities live and die on their ability to move their citizens around.” In May, Director of [Michigan DOT, Kirk Steudle,](http://fox17online.com/2015/02/02/mdot-director-explains-what-happens-if-proposition-1-passes-or-fails/) has the opportunity to begin addressing this need along with the state of the roads by passing Proposition 1 which will remove the sales tax from gas and allow the fuel tax to be raised, in order to provide for transit needs and “stop the decline” of Michigan’s roads. Infrastructure is a problem across the nation. America’s roads are now [ranked no. 16](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/231855-dot-chief-30-year-transport-analysis-a-wake-up-call) in the world, behind countries such as Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Portugal. The [USDOT’s 30 Year Transportation Plan Blue Paper](http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/The%20Blue%20Paper_0.pdf) compares our nation’s infrastructure quality, broken down by sector, with that of the world’s. It also projects how failing to invest in our infrastructure, as the country’s population continues to increase, will affect the daily lives of every American. It is startling to think that by 2045 traffic conditions like that in Los Angeles could be the reality of every city. It is clear that transportation issues, whether traffic gridlock, transit shortages or bridge closures, are a direct result of lack of maintenance and funding. Obama’s [GROW AMERICA Act](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america), and a $478 billion, six-year surface transportation (MAP-21) re-authorization proposal, are encouraging steps to address this but does not provide the long-term, sustainable funding that our surface transportation system requires. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Federal%20Funding%20Proposals%20Outline%20Roadmap%20for%20the%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** DOT, highway trust fund, transit --- ### [Chime in on Wednesday to Fix the Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/chime-in-on-wednesday-to-fix-the-trust-fund/) **Published:** February 9, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23FixTheTrustfund&src=typd)and modernize America’s roads, bridges, and transit, USDOT Sec. Foxx and Transportation & Infrastructure Chairman Bill Shuster are heading to Twitter for a bipartisan “townhall” to discuss surface transportation. The town hall, a first of its kind, will be Wednesday, Feb. 11 after Sec. Foxx concludes his testimony in from of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, around 12 p.m. ET. [![stuckintraffic](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/stuckintraffic-300x150.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/stuckintraffic.png)Now it’s up to you to ask your questions about transportation investment and voice your support for a long-term funding solution. To get the conversation rolling, here are some key facts from the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* that would make great tweeting material. To join in the conversation, use [\#StuckInTraffic](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23StuckInTraffic&src=tyah) anytime between now and Wednesday. - One in nine U.S. bridges is structurally deficient. - 45% of Americans don’t have access to public transportation. - 42% of major urban highways are congested, costing the economy $101B a year. - 32% of America’s major roads are in poor or mediocre condition. - Americans spend nearly a week’s worth of vacation time—34 hours—stuck in traffic each year. - If we don’t improve our transportation infrastructure, each family’s budget will lose $1060 a year by 2020. - If we don’t improve our transportation infrastructure, America will lose 877,000 jobs by 2020. No matter what you contribute, the important thing is that they know people are listening and expecting them to come up with real solutions to fix the Highway Trust Fund. Mark your calendar to join in for this historic event! 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and their economic impact could be a glimpse of things to come if we fail to modernize our freight transportation network to meet growing demands. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE), Chairman of the subcommittee, opened the hearing saying “To grow the economy and create new jobs, we need an efficient and reliable intermodal transportation network.” The testimony of representatives from BNSF, Cargill, the Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors (CAGTC), and infrastructure consulting firm Moffatt and Nichol, demonstrated the need for a strong intermodal transportation system that works together to move goods along the supply chain. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), ranking member of the subcommittee, commented that “No region is an island” as he reiterated the importance of investing in infrastructure that effectively moves freight. During the testimony, Mr. John Greuling, representing the CAGTC pointed to how much more other countries, such as China and Canada, are investing in their transportation networks. The subcommittee’s exploration of this topic demonstrates the growing understanding that our infrastructure works as a system whose condition has huge implications for the nation’s economy. [ASCE’s Failure to Act economic study on Airports, Inland Waterways and Marine Ports](http://www.asce.org/airports_inland_waterways_and_marine_ports_report/) found that with a $15.8 billion investment per year until 2020, the U.S. can protect $270 billion in U.S. exports, $687 billion in GDP and 738,000 jobs annually. Congress should identify additional ways that freight mobility investments can be prioritized and funded to ensure that America’s economy can compete in the global marketplace. A [fix to the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and increased investment levels for our nation’s transportation system would go a long way towards achieving this goal. 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Mike](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/3686420816_881aa5547c_b-300x214.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/3686420816_881aa5547c_b.jpg)Photo Credit MikeIt is not a news flash that America’s infrastructure needs serious attention and investment. In light of increased attention to our nation’s surface transportation needs, many states are proposing increasing the gas tax to fund transportation. In addition, there has been an uptick in the [number of news stories](https://twitter.com/Transport/timelines/563804089616965634) highlighting the need to be more strategic in the way we fund infrastructure. After chunks of concrete fell this week from a [bridge on the DC Beltway in Maryland](http://www.wboc.com/story/28086455/concrete-falls-from-i-49595-bridge-previously-ruled-structurally-deficient) onto a moving vehicle, Manager of Public and Government Affairs at AAA Mid-Atlantic said “this is yet another reminder of why transportation funding in Maryland is so critically needed.” This incident prompted [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx](http://wtop.com/sprawl-crawl/2015/02/transportation-secretary-funding-needed-help-nations-run-bridges/) to underscore the necessity of providing funding to maintain and repair the nation’s bridges. [Pennsylvania’s](http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/print-edition/2015/02/13/pa-bridges-get-worst-marks-in-u-s.html) bridges have also received media attention lately, with 22 percent of the state’s bridges classified as structurally deficient, making it the highest percentage in the country. In an effort to fund their aging transportation infrastructure, more and more states are considering gas tax increases. [Iowa](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2015/02/10/iowa-gas-tax-hike-advances/23186083/) is proposing a 10-cent gas tax hike that would generate close to $215 million a year for Iowa’s road system. [Utah](http://fox13now.com/2015/02/12/proposal-to-increase-gas-tax-in-utah-moves-closer-to-becoming-law/) is recommending a bill to raise diesel fuel by 10 cents per gallon for road and bridge maintenance. [Georgia](http://savannahnow.com/opinion/2015-02-07/editorial-pumped-about-gasoline-taxes) is considering a $1 billion transportation funding plan that would steer gasoline tax revenue toward asphalt and concrete repairs. Though increasing state-level gas taxes is a step in the right direction, long-term, sustainable federal funding is critical to restore the nation’s infrastructure, as the states need the federal government to continue being a trusted partner in transportation projects. [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/232462-dot-chief-to-house-do-something-on-transport-funding)told Congress this week that temporary funding patches do not provide enough money for states and local governments to finance “badly needed long-range construction projects,” noting that the Obama administration has proposed a measure to spend $478 billion over the next six years. As states continue to make decisions with limited budgets, one tool that can help them make the most of the investment is life cycle cost analysis. [Vox](http://www.vox.com/2015/2/10/8012211/infrastructure-crumbling-more-spending) recapped a study by [Smart Growth America](http://www.smartgrowthamerica.org/documents/repair-priorities-2014.pdf), reaching similar conclusions to ASCE’s *[Maximizing the Value of Investment Using Life Cycle Cost Analysis](http://www.asce.org/life_cycle_cost_analysis_report/)* report*.* Increased investment is essential in maintaining our transportation system in a state of good repair. By using effective planning tools such as life cycle cost analysis coupled with an increased investment, America will be better equipped to modernize its transportation system. Regardless of states’ efforts to fund transportation infrastructure, the Highway Trust Fund is headed towards insolvency in a matter of months. If there is no fix it will be detrimental to every state and our economy It’s imperative that members of Congress work together to pass legislation that will provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#Fix-the-Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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We hope you’ll join our effort and be a friend to America’s infrastructure! 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American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will release the inaugural **2015 Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure** on Tuesday, February 24. The report includes evaluations of Iowa aviation, rail, inland waterways, roads, bridges, dams, levees, drinking water, wastewater, electrical energy, and solid waste. ### News conference on release of the 2015 Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure ### WHO: American Society of Civil Engineers – Iowa Section ### Speakers: - Joe Spradling, P.E., president, Iowa Section ASCE - Aaron Granquist, P.E., author and member, Report Card Committee - Director Debi Durham, Iowa Economic Development Authority ### WHEN: Tuesday, February 24, 2015 at 10:30 am ### WHERE: Wallace Building Auditorium, 502 E 9th Street, Des Moines, Iowa [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, economy, infrastructure, Iowa, report card, roads, transportation, water --- ### [What Does the Foxx Say?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/what-does-the-foxx-say/) **Published:** February 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=What%20Does%20the%20Foxx%20Say%3F&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F02%2FDave_Jeremy_Secretary-Foxx-300x225.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=What%20Does%20the%20Foxx%20Say%3F "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=What%20Does%20the%20Foxx%20Say%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[While it might not be as amusing as this, ](%20https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jofNR_WkoCE,)this week U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said that a quality transportation network is important to the future of the nation and he urged Congress to quickly adopt a multi-year surface transportation bill. Secretary Foxx did so as he rolled through a few southern states in a bus he named the Grow America Express, a nod to the name of the[ Obama Administration’s surface transportation authorization bill](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america/fact-sheets/overview). Foxx made visits to multiple states to promote the administration’s plan, at times accompanied by Vice President Joe Biden in both North and South Carolina. [![Pictured from L to R: David Crombie, E.I., A.M.ASCE (ASCE Tallahassee Branch Vice President), USDOT Secretary Anthony Foxx, and Jeremy Clark, P.E., M.ASCE (ASCE Tallahassee Branch President)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Dave_Jeremy_Secretary-Foxx-300x225.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Dave_Jeremy_Secretary-Foxx.jpg)Pictured from L to R David Crombie EI AMASCE ASCE Tallahassee Branch Vice President USDOT Secretary Anthony Foxx and Jeremy Clark PE MASCE ASCE Tallahassee Branch PresidentAlong the way, ASCE region, section and branch leaders met with the Secretary and reminded him of the importance that civil engineers place on a well-funded, multi-year transportation bill. On his trip, the Secretary made time to meet with civil engineering students at Florida A&M University and underscored to them the significance of robust public infrastructure investment to their future profession. ASCE members greeted Secretary Foxx and participated in events with Vice President Biden at the following locations: - Tallahassee, FL: David Crombie, E.I., A.M.ASCE (ASCE Tallahassee Branch Vice President) and Jeremy Clark, P.E., M.ASCE (ASCE Tallahassee Branch President) - Charleston, SC: Chuck Black, P.E., M. ASCE (ASCE South Carolina Section, Eastern Branch Director) - Columbia, SC: Edward Owens, P.E, M.ASCE (ASCE South Carolina Section President) and Petrina Butler, P.E., M.ASCE (ASCE Upstate South Carolina Branch President) and Jennifer Muster, P.E.,M.ASCE (ASCE Upstate South Carolina Branch) - Charlotte, NC: Daniel Bridges, P.E, M.ASCE (ASCE North Carolina Section President) - Raleigh, NC: Robert Cagle, P.E, F.ASCE (ASCE Region 4 Governor) - Washington, DC: Veronica Davis, P.E, M.ASCE (ASCE Transportation Policy Committee member) and Robert Victor, P.E, F.ASCE (ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure member) Next week, Congress returns to Washington where the Beltway debate will refocus on the need for a long-term transportation bill. Legislators will have to determine a way to pay for the measure, with at least $13 billion more required annually for deposit in the [federal Highway Trust Fund](https://fixthetrustfund.org/) to avoid road, bridge and transit construction cuts. ASCE staff and members will continue to engage lawmakers in the District as well as back home in an effort to generate more attention on the need for an urgent fix on this issue. 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On Wednesday morning in Los Angeles a [water main broke](http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-ln-water-main-break-floods-hollywood-hills-neighborhood-submerges-vehicles-20150218-story.html) that was installed in 1926, causing flooding and damage to nearby buildings and roads. According to The Times’ analysis of LA Department of Water and Power (DWP) data, Los Angeles’ system of water pipes has averaged nearly 1,200 leaks a year since 2010, and water main leaks and breaks occur on average about three times a day across the city. Vice President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx recently returned from a tour through [five states](http://www.wsoctv.com/news/news/local/vice-president-biden-transportation-secretary-foxx/nkD2N/) to promote the Grow America Act, which would invest $478 billion in infrastructure across the nation. It would be partly paid for through a one-time tax on currently untaxed corporate earnings, is considered by Biden and Foxx to be a bipartisan funding initiative and critical to economic growth and job creation. In absence of federal funding solutions, many states have come up with innovative ways to fund local transportation infrastructure. Aside from raising state gas taxes, which [Iowa](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2015/02/19/committees-ok-gas-tax-increase/23701923/) and [Utah](http://www.sltrib.com/home/2199311-155/house-proposes-gas-tax-hike-that-isnt) legislatures are in the process of doing, there have been innovative technologies to help improve safety and make trips easier. For example, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has [created an app](http://kstp.com/article/stories/S3710337.shtml) that would assist the visually impaired to get around the city by navigating them and helping them avoid construction sites, as many are left to navigate the cities by foot due to lack of sufficient transit[\[MB1\]](https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#14ba9175fb3c0bd1__msocom_1) In [Los Angeles](http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/New-Mobile-App-Lets-Bus-Riders-Pay-Fare-and-Buy-Passes--292279101.html), a new app was launched to allow riders to pay for the commuter buses via their mobile phones with the aim of promoting more ridership on public transit. Regardless of innovative transportation improvements and state gas taxes, The Highway Trust Fund is headed towards insolvency in a matter of months. It’s imperative that members of Congress work together to pass legislation that will provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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The report includes evaluation of Utah’s bridges, canals, dams, drinking water & supply, hazardous waste, levees, roads, solid waste, transit, and wastewater & stormwater. **WHAT:** Press Release of the *2015 Report Card for Utah’s Infrastructure* **WHO:** Utah Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers David Eckhoff, P.E., PhD, American Society of Civil Engineers Andrew Gruber, Executive Director, Wasatch Front Regional Council Ari Buening, COO, Envision Utah **WHEN:** Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2015, 10 a.m. **WHERE:** Utah State Capitol Presentation Room, First Floor, Salt Lake, UT **WHY:** Infrastructure has a direct impact on our lives every day—from the water we drink, to the roads and rails we travel. Infrastructure is vital to our economy, security, recreation and safety. Will Utah’s infrastructure systems make the grade? [Can’t attend but want to see the Report Card tomorrow? 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– Iowa and Utah. [Iowa’s Report Card ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iowa "Iowa Report Card")showed one good B grade, seven mediocre Cs, and three poor Ds for the state’s infrastructure. Iowa’s roads earned a C- while bridges earned one of the lowest grades of D+. [Utah’s Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/utah "Utah Report Card") earned good B+ grades for transportation categories but lower C and D grades for water and water resource infrastructure like drinking water, dams, and canals. Both Report Cards recommended leaders take action to supplement their current funding sources to meet both today’s issues and tomorrow’s needs. Both state legislatures have been actively discussing their state’s transportation challenges with bills in both states being debated. Yesterday, Iowa legislators took rapid action passing bipartisan legislation through both the Senate and the House and sent the bill to the Governor’s desk. Today, Iowa’s Governor signed the bill marking a significant victory for improving transportation in the state. In Utah, a bill has been introduced that would raise 10 cents for every gallon of gas sold in Utah and provide an additional $237 million for transportation over the next two fiscal years. Many of Utah’s bridges will soon come to the end of their lifespan. The same goes for roads, many of which cannot keep pace with the increase in the number of motorist. Will Utah’s legislators take action before their session ends to ensure a good transportation system for the state’s future? [![Iowa Rail shape logo](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Iowa-Rail-shape-logo1.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Iowa-Rail-shape-logo1.png) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Utah%20and%20Iowa%20Poised%20to%20Tackle%20Transportation&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FUtah-shape-logo-small11.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Utah%20and%20Iowa%20Poised%20to%20Tackle%20Transportation "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Transportation%20Investment%20Has%20a%20Promising%20Moment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Two state report cards releases, legislation passed to raise Iowa’s state gas tax, and promising discussions on federal transportation funding, give us reasons to be optimistic about the future of our nation’s infrastructure. After a week-long recess, House Republicans Reid Ribble of Wisconsin, Tom Reed (NY) and Democrats Dan Lipinski (Ill.) and Bill Pascrell Jr. (NJ) sent a bipartisan letter that included signatures from 284 representatives to House Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) and Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) regarding their mutual support for a long-term, sustainable transportation funding solution. Though an exact funding solution has not yet been agreed upon, it is encouraging to see growing bipartisan support to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). Aside from individual state’s steps toward addressing infrastructure needs and funding, there has been more dialogue at the federal level calling for a long-term, sustainable funding solution. [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/233863-transportation-chief-sees-moment-for-highway-bill) spoke to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) on Wednesday regarding the need for Congress to pass a long-term bill that meets the needs of a “growing 21st century America,” saying that “there is a moment that is shaping up here for something good can happen.” [Iowa](http://www.kcci.com/news/gas-tax-increase-votes-expected-tuesday/31430594) lawmakers already took swift action to improve the transportation grades by raising their gas tax by 10 cents per gallon for the first time since 1989. The gas tax increase, which goes into effect Sunday, March 1, will provide an additional $215 million annually for Iowa’s network of bridges and roads that are in need of repair. [Iowa](http://whotv.com/2015/02/24/iowas-infrastructure-graded-c-in-asce-2015-report-card/) also released their state infrastructure report card, which gave them an overall grade of C-, with solid waste being the highest ranked and levees and electrical energy ranking the lower. Though Iowa has a lot of work to do still, their GPA reveals great progress. [Utah](http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/feb/24/civil-engineers-to-release-report-on-utah-infrastr/) also released their state report card this week, giving them an overall GPA of C-, with roads and bridges being in the best shape and levees and canals being in the worst shape. The [Utah Transportation Coalition](http://www.good4utah.com/story/d/story/utah-transportation-coalition-rallies-at-utah-stat/67550/YBwrlWgF50Gq4LiH2qR8-w) has rallied for the legislature to boost transportation funding through a gas tax to anticipate maintenance needs for the growing population. These state initiatives and federal actions signal a shift in the tide to restore our nation’s infrastructure. It is more critical than ever before that Congress work together to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Transportation%20Investment%20Has%20a%20Promising%20Moment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocates](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/outstanding-civil-engineer-advocates/) **Published:** February 28, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Outstanding%20Civil%20Engineer%20Advocates "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Outstanding%20Civil%20Engineer%20Advocates&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")For the first time, ASCE is formally recognizing an individual member and a team who are dedicated to saving America’s infrastructure and promoting ASCE’s [Priority Issues](http://www.asce.org/priority_issues/) through building relationships with lawmakers. The [Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year Award](http://www.asce.org/advocate_award/) winners, Darren Benoit and the Louisiana Section, will be recognized for their achievements at ASCE’s [Legislative Fly-In](http://www.asce.org/legislative_fly-in/), an annual two-day event where ASCE members promote the civil engineering profession to their state’s U.S. Congressional representatives. **[Darren Benoit](http://blogs.asce.org/advocate-profile-darren-m-benoit-p-e-m-asce/),** of New Hampshire, has advocated on surface transportation, dam safety, and other issues at both the state and federal levels. Among his most notable accomplishments in years of building relationships with lawmakers and educating the public, Darren testified in front of the New Hampshire state legislature about the need for an increased investment in transportation funding. Last year, New Hampshire’s representatives and senators responded by raising the state’s fuel tax for the first time in two decades. In 2011, he led the New Hampshire Section of ASCE in its release of the *[Report Card for New Hampshire’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-hampshire/)* and has again taken the lead on updating the report. The[ **Louisiana Section**](http://www.lasce.org/) of ASCE began its advocacy efforts for better infrastructure throughout the state with the release of the *[2012 Report Card for Louisiana’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/louisiana/)*. To follow up on the efforts of the Report Card, which gave the state’s infrastructure a GPA of “C-,” the Section joined forces with other like-minded groups to hold the first-ever Infrastructure Awareness Day at the state capitol. The event included a luncheon with lawmakers to discuss the importance of infrastructure and the need for increased investment. Four days later, state Sen. Robert Adley testified on his proposal to better fund transportation. Similarly, state Rep. Karen St. Germain has since proposed legislation that would transfer vehicle sales tax revenue to transportation, boosting investment by more than $400 million a year. Darren and the [Louisiana Section](http://www.lasce.org/), along with all our Key Contacts, represent ASCE’s Priority Issues to America’s lawmakers. Congratulations to Darren and the Louisiana Section for being our inaugural [award](http://www.asce.org/advocate_award/) winners. Keep up the great work! 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](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/oliver-infrastructure-movie4-300x171.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/oliver-infrastructure-movie4.jpg)HBOs Last Week Tonight with John Oliver proposed a movie on the importance of infrastructure maintenanceIowa’s transportation investment as funded by the state gas tax FINALLY received a 10-cent raise last week, which went into effect yesterday. The last time it had seen an increase before that? 1989. To put that in perspective: [the Bachelor who has been bringing Iowa a lot of attention](http://abc.go.com/shows/the-bachelor/cast/bachelor-chris-soules) the past two months celebrated his eight birthday that year. If you’re thinking “Wow, it’s embarrassing for Iowa to not increase the investment in so long, while the cost of everything has essentially doubled in that time,” chances are your state is not doing much better. Nor is the federal government’s leadership on this, as nationally the last raise came in 1993. During their legislative sessions, [a lot of state lawmakers are considering if and how to make a bigger investment in infrastructure](http://www.governing.com/topics/transportation-infrastructure/gov-low-gas-prices-deteriorating-roads-fuel-push-for-gas-tax-hikes.html). In part, it’s because the short-term patches for the Highway Trust Fund make it hard for states to effectively plan for transportation projects. But it is also because states have followed suit of our federal lawmakers and put infrastructure on the back burner for too long. [A lot is at stake. From economic growth to safety to time with our families.](http://www.asce.org/failure_to_act_economic_studies/) As John Oliver pointed out on HBO’s Last Week Tonight (warning HBO foul language included), infrastructure isn’t “sexy” and maintenance even less so. If Edward Norton and Steve Buscemi are willing to highlight our nation’s infrastructure needs and labor and business can come together on this issue, too, then Congress can also certainly find a way to [\#FixTheTrustFund.](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Excitement%20of%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F03%2Foliver-infrastructure-movie4-300x171.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Excitement%20of%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=HBO%20comedy%20program%2C%20new%20rail%20legislation%20bring%20hope%20for%20infrastructure%20renewal&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")When our nation’s infrastructure woes become the source of comedic entertainment on a major cable channel—it underscores that the problem must be addressed. Fortunately, action on Capitol Hill pressing for funding legislation and transportation reform is already underway. It is not news that our nation’s roads, bridges and transit need maintenance, but when popular television shows bring these issues to light, they become harder to ignore. [John Oliver’s HBO episode](http://www.bustle.com/articles/67322-john-oliver-makes-infrastructure-in-america-un-unsexy-with-his-own-blockbuster-movie-video) (containing adult content) featuring our nations “roads, bridges, dams … basically anything that can be destroyed in an action movie,” showcases deteriorating infrastructure conditions in a comedic yet effective manner. He highlights the widespread need for all areas of America’s infrastructure to be addressed, reminding us of daily water main breaks, cracks in bridge support beams and other evidences of needed infrastructure repair. Secretary Foxx took center stage on the issue this week, speaking to the Senate Commerce Committee and [promoting the Obama Administration’s funding plan](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=37545&t=Watch-Secretary-Anthony-Foxx-Testify-Before-Senate-Panel-on-Budget) for a six-year, $478 billion surface transportation bill which would be funded through a new tax on overseas corporate earnings. In addition to surface transportation, [Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael](http://atwonline.com/air-traffic-control/huerta-wants-stability-and-flexibility-faa-reauthorization) [Huerta](http://atwonline.com/air-traffic-control/huerta-wants-stability-and-flexibility-faa-reauthorization) urged lawmakers to create stable, long-term funding and “operational flexibility” in reauthorizing legislation set to be debated in Congress this year. Huerta underscored the Obama Administration’s support for raising passenger facility charges (PFCs) to $8.00 per leg, per flight which is in line with ASCE’s policy recommendation. This funding would go towards airport modernization and traveler experience upgrades. On Wednesday, the House of Representatives passed by an overwhelming margin [(316-101)](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll112.xml), [bipartisan legislation](http://ti.house.gov/prria/) that would reauthorize national passenger rail programs for a four-year period. The bill seeks to reform Amtrak by reducing costs, creating greater accountability and transparency, leveraging private sector resources, and accelerating rail project delivery. “The Passenger Rail Reform and Investment Act will vastly improve commuter and passenger rail systems across the country, helping save American families’ time and money in transportation costs,” said Jeff Denham, chairman of the hazardous materials subcommittee of the transportation and infrastructure committee. While funding legislation for aviation and Amtrak is encouraging, it is still critical that Congress work quickly to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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from the Congressional Budget Office (CBO)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/CBO_HTF_Projection_March2015_redline-1024x429.jpg)](http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43884-2015-03-HighwayTrustFund.pdf "CBO HTF projections March 2015")Latest projection of federal Highway Trust Fund solvency from the Congressional Budget Office CBOOn Monday, the [Congressional Budget Office (CBO)](http://www.cbo.gov/sites/default/files/cbofiles/attachments/43884-2015-03-HighwayTrustFund.pdf "CBO HTF projections") released its latest projections on the fiscal health of the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF). The HTF is the main source of federal money for road, bridge and transit projects and has been facing fiscal challenges for a number of years. Last summer, Congress [provided ](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/house-passes-stop-gap-bill-to-fund-transportation/2014/07/15/fe65537c-0c2f-11e4-b8e5-d0de80767fc2_story.html "2014 vote by Congress on HTF")a temporary infusion of cash that will run out, as CBO projects, sometime in October or November of 2015. However, the HTF needs a solid cash cushion to maintain its timely payment process to state departments of transportation for work completed, so any fix to the crisis would need to occur before then, likely by September. This CBO outlook underscores the sense of urgency among stakeholders who are urging members of Congress to act now on surface transportation programs, before they approach a May 31 legislative deadline. ASCE is urging Congress to provide more robust federal funding levels and greater multi-year program certainty in order to accelerate road, bridge and transit projects and move the needle on our nation’s transportation infrastructure deficit. Join ASCE by telling Congress we need a long-term, sustainable solution for the Highway Trust Fund by[ sending a letter to your U.S. Senators and Representative](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=76273). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Action%20to%20Fix%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Needed%20by%20This%20Summer&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, highway trust fund, infrastructure, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [Infrastructure’s Latest Buzz Word: Resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructures-latest-buzz-word-resilience/) **Published:** March 11, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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a project or program to respond adaptively to threats such as storm surge or extreme weather and bounce back from disasters—are attracting new attention and challenging the engineering profession to design for a changing world. As much of our infrastructure in the U.S. reaches the end of its design life and development abroad continues to soar, this is a critical and opportune time to rethink the way traditional infrastructure is designed and built. Governments are now teaming up with private industry and nongovernmental organizations (NGO’s) to ensure infrastructure is fit for the future. Numerous international, private sector and government sponsored initiatives now require developers to demonstrate sustainability, resilience and adapting to potential impacts of climate change in the project design. One such example is the United Nations’ (UN) new effort. Last week Boston hosted the UN’s U.S. launch of the [RISE Initiative](http://www.preventionweb.net/rise/), a new platform intended to bring together nontraditional stakeholders, such as the insurance industry and civil engineers to the resilience and financing discussion. Housed under the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, the RISE Initiative seeks to ensure that infrastructure investments are risk-sensitive. That requires better transparency, coordination and information sharing among all players in infrastructure development, including policy-makers, engineers, financiers and insurers. Resilient projects may require developers to incorporate design elements that are more costly at the outset, but increase the durability of the project long-term. ASCE recently released a report on [life-cycle cost analysis](http://www.asce.org/life_cycle_cost_analysis_report/), which explores the benefits of considering the lifetime cost of a project, rather than just the initial cost to build it. Following Superstorm Sandy, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) increased its focus on making our infrastructure more resilient. It hosted a [Rebuild-By-Design](http://www.rebuildbydesign.org/what-is-rebuild-by-design/), a design competition in partnership with the Rockefeller Foundation. The competition began by soliciting the best ideas for rebuilding in the Sandy-affected region. Teams then refined projects to ensure high levels of sustainability and resilience, with winning projects receiving grants for implementation. HUD recently launched a second competition, [the National Disaster Resilience Competition (NDRC)](http://www.huduser.org/portal/CDBGRDR.html) which is similar to Rebuild-By-Design, but open nationwide to natural disaster affected areas with $1 billion at stake. The RISE Initiative and HUD competitions are just two examples of the strides being made to build infrastructure more resilient, and therefore better poised to bounce back after extreme weather events. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%E2%80%99s%20Latest%20Buzz%20Word%3A%20Resilience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** resilience --- ### [This Week in Infrastructure: Water Infrastructure Incurs More Attention](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/this-week-in-infrastructure-water-infrastructure-incurs-more-attention/) **Published:** March 13, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Incurs%20More%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Amidst the visible need for highway, bridge and pothole repairs, we often forget the growing needs of our nation’s water infrastructure. According to [ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/drinking-water/)’s Report Card, there are 240,000 water main breaks per year and trillions of gallons of water are lost each year due to “leaky pipes, broken water mains and faulty meters.” Cities throughout the nation, including [Toledo](http://www.toledoblade.com/Opinion/2015/03/09/Water-woes-part-2-the-main-issue.html) and [Philadelphia](http://www.phillymag.com/news/2015/03/08/water-main-breaks-philadelphia/), are dealing with water main breaks and struggling to pay for the upkeep and improvements of their water infrastructure. In the past 30 years, Philadelphia has had between 439 and 1,316 water main breaks per year. These types of water issues underscore the need for significant investment. To combat this growing problem, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) established the [Global Smart Cities Challenge](http://www.nist.gov/cps/global-city-teams-challenge-workshop.cfm), [which will showcase](http://3blmedia.com/News/Smart-Water-Infrastructure-Challenge) wireless networks’ ability to power every day solutions for large utility problems. Using wireless sensor technology, water utilities can proactively locate and fix leaks, monitor decreases or increases in water pressure and monitor video feeds which ensure security for critical water distribution infrastructure. In addition to drinking and wastewater infrastructure, America’s waterways are also in need of investment and maintenance. Waterways Council Inc. (WCI), a group that advocates for modernizing the national system of ports and inland waterways, is [pushing for more federal funding](http://www.agri-pulse.com/Congress-urged-to-boost-funding-for-US-ports-waterways-03112015.asp) for the Army Corps of Engineers, which is chiefly responsible for building and maintaining water infrastructure. In a letter they sent to the House and Senate, WCI and more than 40 organizations advocated for increased funding to address maritime transportation emphasizing that, “we must maintain our navigation channels and inland waterways for safe and efficient freight.” WCI and other inland waterways stakeholders are hoping for successful allocation of [WRRDA](http://transportation.house.gov/wrrda/) funding and sound use of the increased revenue to the trust fund. Ultimately, water infrastructure needs just as much attention as our transportation infrastructure. Nevertheless, it is still critical that Congress work quickly to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=This%20Week%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Incurs%20More%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, water infrastructure, water resources development act, waterways --- ### [Lt Governors Talk Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/lt-governors-talk-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** March 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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ASCE’s Executive Director Tom Smith participated in a panel discussion with Robert Atkinson from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation to help Lt. Governors tackle this important issue. Lt. Governors from 18 states were in attendance this week to hear from policy leaders on a variety of issues, but clearly infrastructure is front and center on their priority list. The panel discussion, entitled “Infrastructure Investment Conversation: How soon and how?,” tackled a variety of possible policies that states are considering particularly to address transportation financing such as tolls, vehicle miles travelled fees, and of course increases in fuel taxes. NLGA has acknowledged that infrastructure is critical to the economy and that 21st century jobs require a 21st century infrastructure – from ports and roads to rail and aerospace. The state and territories second-in-command understand the potential consequences of delays or underinvestment in infrastructure improvement. The Lt. Governors spent their meeting time in Washington focusing on solutions they can take back home to address this important issue in their state. 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Budget FY16This week the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate majorities unveiled their fiscal year 2016 (FY16) budgets. Traditionally, passing a budget in Congress is a particularly partisan endeavor with most all members in the majority voting in favor of their budget, and all the minority members voting against it. Should this Congress pass a budget in the coming weeks, it will not have to go to President Obama for his signature as budgets are self-imposed restrictions on Congressional spending. However, occasionally Congress has increased funding levels for certain programs despite the budget instructing them not to do so. These proposals offer some insight into what transportation funding levels might look like in the coming year. Disappointing for transportation was that both the House and Senate budgets assumed that road, bridge and transit spending would be limited to incoming revenues to the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF). This is a problem as the HTF has been facing fiscal pressure over the years and is forecast to require $13 billion in additional revenues in FY16 just to maintain current spending levels. Which is why ASCE supported a House Budget Committee amendment by [Congresswoman Kathy Castor (D-FL)](http://castor.house.gov/) that would have maintained current spending levels for surface transportation. Unfortunately, the amendment failed in committee by a vote of 14-22. Better for transportation in the House and Senate budgets is the creation of what is known as a “reserve fund” for the HTF, which would allow the tax committees to determine how best to fill the trust fund hole in a way that is deficit-neutral. These ways could include raising taxes (including the federal gasoline tax), cutting spending, or transferring other government funds to transportation. ASCE called for and supported the creation of this HTF reserve fund, however in order to increase spending for other infrastructure sectors, like water, dams and levees, a broader Infrastructure Reserve Fund is also needed. Senate Budget Committee [Ranking Member Bernie Sanders (I-VT)](http://www.sanders.senate.gov/) introduced such an amendment in committee, which ASCE supported, but unfortunately that too was defeated on a party-line vote. Earlier this year, ASCE [endorsed ](http://blogs.asce.org/senators-2020-vision-for-americas-infrastructure)legislation introduced by Senator Sanders that would increase funding for our nation’s transportation, water and other infrastructure sectors. The Senator is expected to offer other infrastructure-related amendments on the Senate floor when the budget is up for a vote there next week. The debate over the last few days on the budget has crystallized one key fact on transportation spending: the vast majority in Congress believe that we should be investing more in transportation but there is not yet widespread bipartisan consensus on exactly how to pay for it. ASCE needs your [help ](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/)to tell Congress to work quickly to identify a long-term, sustainable funding solution that would #FixTheTrustFund before the legislative deadline of May 31, 2015. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Budgets%20Represent%20Priorities&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [Ice Cream Funding for Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ice-cream-funding-for-roads/) **Published:** March 20, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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trust Fund and need for a sustainable transportation solution is accelerating at the federal level and inspiring states to take more action. In Michigan, residents have responded to their road needs by creating a [pothole challenge](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2015/03/08/pothole-problems-metro-detroit-freep/24614693/) to identify the worst potholes in the state. One creative business entrepreneur even invented a [pothole ice cream](http://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/dining/sylvia-rector/2015/03/17/michigan-pot-hole-ice-cream/24897935/) flavor to generate awareness about road funding needs, and plans to donate 1 percent of sales from the product to the state for repairs . Come May 5, voters will be asked to consider [Proposal 1](http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/03/prop_1_gov_rick_snyder_to_answ.html), which among other things would boost the state sales tax to 7 percent to eventually generate an extra $1.2 billion annually for roads. Congress’ [2016 fiscal budget](http://blogs.asce.org/budgets-represent-priorities/) release, which proposes levying a onetime toll on untaxed foreign earnings currently sitting overseas and using the proceeds to pay for infrastructure projects, has generated more federal dialogue on transportation needs. During [National Journal’s](http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress/the-country-s-infrastructure-problems-are-clear-the-solutions-aren-t-20150319) “Running on Empty: Tackling America’s Infrastructure Crisis” event on Thursday in Washington, D.C., Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster discussed our transportation funding needs in relation to the new budget proposals. “I feel confident that we will do a long-term bill, a five- or six-year bill,” Shuster said, “because both sides of the aisle, both sides of the Capitol, both ends of Pennsylvania Avenue, everybody’s talking about a long-term bill.” Though raising the federal gas tax is not on the immediate horizon for many states, several states have benefited from gas tax raises to generate transportation funding. [ASCE](http://www.joc.com/regulation-policy/congress-expected-%E2%80%98kick-can%E2%80%99-again-highway-funding-solution_20150319.html) [Senior Managing Director Casey Dinges](http://www.joc.com/regulation-policy/congress-expected-%E2%80%98kick-can%E2%80%99-again-highway-funding-solution_20150319.html), reported that 11 states, both conservative and liberal, have raised their fuel taxes since 2013. Recently [South Dakota](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/236066-south-dakota-hikes-gas-tax) signed legislation to increase its 22-cent gas tax by six cents starting April 1. While the decision regarding long-term, sustainable transportation funding must be made at the federal level, the outcome of the decision affects each American. [Congressman John Delaney](http://maryland.realestaterama.com/2015/03/18/delaney-asks-constituents-to-share-their-infrastructure-stories-ID0572.html) invited Maryland residents to share how America’s infrastructure has affected their daily lives. He wants Congress to understand how “long commutes, unsafe bridges and overcrowded ports, railways and airports have a direct impact on people’s lives, on their businesses, on the amount of time we all are able to spend with our loved ones.” Our nation’s infrastructure needs are great, and every day from Main Street to Wall Street Americans are paying the price. It is critical that Congress work quickly to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). --- [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Ice%20Cream%20Funding%20for%20Roads&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F6621444233_d109d69b26_z1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Ice%20Cream%20Funding%20for%20Roads "Share on 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"Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F6621444233_d109d69b26_z1.jpg&description=Ice%20Cream%20Funding%20for%20Roads "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Ice%20Cream%20Funding%20for%20Roads "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Ice%20Cream%20Funding%20for%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, roads --- ### [States Stepping Up](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-stepping-up/) **Published:** March 24, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Stepping%20Up&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A growing number of states are taking action during their legislative sessions to increase investment in transportation. This trend is in vogue for several reasons. First, many states that have taken action have done so after years of kicking the can down the road. For example, [Iowa’s 10-cent increase](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2015/02/25/iowa-gas-tax-branstad/23990671/) is the first boost since 1989. In that time, the cost of most other goods has nearly doubled. Yet, Iowa was trying to fund 2015 roads and bridges on 1989 dollars. That underinvestment was costing the state’s economy in other ways, [as a recent assessment by TRIP demonstrated](http://tripnet.org/docs/IA_Transportation_Challenges_TRIP_Release_021815.pdf). Iowa’s roads and bridges are costing each Iowan $2 billion in additional vehicle operating costs, lost time and fuel due to traffic congestion, and financial costs from traffic accidents. Thanks to the increased revenues, the state will begin addressing many of its needs. Second, bipartisan action reflects the increasing understanding that deferring maintenance in the face of a funding deficit hurts economic competitiveness. Utah, [another state that passed gas tax increase legislation this session](http://www.deseretnews.com/article/865624244/Lawmakers-increase-gas-tax-allow-local-increases-for-tranportation.html?pg=all), is expected to have huge population growth in the coming decades. To meet future needs, as well as address a projected funding shortfall, that state needed to increase its investment. Investing in roads and bridges has historically been a place of agreement from both sides of the aisle, and that trend continues this year. Another reason we have seen action is that [people are sick of potholes](http://www.philly.com/philly/opinion/inquirer/20150322_The_Pulse__Pave_the_way_to_better_U_S_.html) and sitting in traffic and are becoming increasingly vocal about their desire to have safe, well-maintained roads and bridges. In the [press release South Dakota Gov. Daugaard issued after signing his state’s gas tax increase into law](http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=17375), he emphasized that maintaining roads and bridges is one of the fundamental functions of government. The more lawmakers hear from constituents on the need for better roads and bridges and greater access to transit, the more likely they are to make it a legislative priority. Several other states are poised to take action this year that would better fund transportation. In legislative action, [Idaho](http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/03/18/3705289/idaho-house-committee-endorses.html), [Georgia](http://www.11alive.com/story/news/politics/2015/03/20/transportation-bill-squeaks-through-georgia-senate/25091239/) and [Washington](http://www.issaquahreporter.com/news/294745341.html) are all considering and compromising on bills that would address each respective state’s needs. Also on the horizon are [Minnesota](http://www.mprnews.org/story/2015/03/23/pugmire), [North Carolina](http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/article15617726.html) and [Nebraska](http://www.theindependent.com/news/state/nebraska-gas-tax-increase-for-bridges-voted-out-of-committee/article_2bacb683-0ede-58fb-9a6d-cdaed6050121.html). In [Michigan](http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/story/28587686/breaking-down-proposal-1), voters will head to the polls on May 5th to decide on a ballot measure that would increase funding for the Great Lakes state’s transportation network—a measure endorsed by many influential groups, [the Governor](http://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/editorials/2015/03/20/edit-gov-answers-prop-gripes/25101101/), and the *[Detroit Free Press](http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/stephen-henderson/2015/03/21/proposal-roads-michigan/25116857/)*. All of this action at the state level, however, cannot take the place of the federal government’s essential role in transportation investment. To continue the momentum of this year’s state action—[along with the trend of the past few years](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/211152-state-gas-tax-increases-take-effect)—[the U.S. Congress needs to find a long-term, sustainable solution to fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/stephen-henderson/2015/03/21/proposal-roads-michigan/25116857/). If they fail to act, o[ur nation’s economic competitiveness is in jeopardy](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) and states will be stuck with a much larger tab, or an even longer backlog of projects. 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=States%20Stepping%20Up "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Stepping%20Up&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, state government --- ### [Two Year Anniversary of the Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/two-year-anniversary-of-the-report-card/) **Published:** March 27, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Two%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F2013RC-logo-black-vert1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Two%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Two%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Two years ago this month, we released our 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Our nation’s D+ infrastructure grade is critical to share as we advocate for infrastructure investment, especially given the Highway Trust Fund is headed toward insolvency this summer. Over the past year, ASCE and the [Report Card ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)have received more than 24,000 total mentions since its release in 2013. In 2014 alone, there have been over 9,000 media mentions in all 50 states and 15 countries around the world. The majority of these mentions discuss the findings of the Report Card and the $3.6 trillion investment needed by 2020. We are proud that every day the hard work of our members earns the attention of the media and the public. To celebrate a successful year of coverage and meaningful conversations here is a compilation of a few of our favorite media mentions. CBS News—[part 1](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/construction-delays-cause-traffic-serious-headaches-for-commuters/) and [part 2](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/federal-state-regulations-delay-much-needed-repairs-on-american-bridges/) [CBS-60 Minutes ](http://www.cbsnews.com/videos/falling-apart-americas-neglected-infrastructure/) [HBO-John Oliver Show](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wpzvaqypav8) [CSPAN ](http://www.c-span.org/video/?323541-4/washington-journal-casey-dinges-us-infrastructure) [NBC Nightly News](http://www.nbcnews.com/watch/nightly-news/water-main-break-floods-ucla-campus-313715267988) [Marketplace Radio](http://www.marketplace.org/topics/economy/fixing-aging-infrastructure-can-cost-billions) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Two%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Two%20Year%20Anniversary%20of%20the%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2013 Report Card, highway trust --- ### [ASCE Members Meet With US Lawmakers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-members-meet-with-us-lawmakers/) **Published:** March 30, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FH4_24821.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers "Share on 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Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FH4_24821.jpg&description=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")“Let’s win this for our country,” proclaimed ASCE President Robert D. Stevens, PhD, PE to a room of nearly 200 ASCE members who descended on the nation’s capital to encourage members of Congress to fix the Highway Trust Fund last week. The group visited Washington, D.C. as part of the 15th annual ASCE Legislative Fly-In, which offers the opportunity for ASCE members to engage with their elected representatives and senators about the policy issues that impact civil engineers. The two-day event included briefings on federal legislative issues, including the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) appropriation process and the need for Congress to pass a long-term transportation bill this year. To further the conversation on transportation, attendees were addressed by the U.S. Department of Transportation Under Secretary for Policy, Peter Rogoff on Tuesday evening and Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) on Wednesday morning. [![](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150324_asce_1062-300x200.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150324_asce_1062.jpg)USDOTs Peter Rogoff addresses the group Photo Credit David HathcoxRogoff thanked the group for making the journey to Washington to highlight this important issue, remarking “No one is closer to infrastructure than you and your colleagues.” He then outlined the reasons America needs a bolder plan for the future to meet the demands of a growing population. Despite the major maintenance needs in addition to needs to account for future growth, the transportation network is, as Rogoff put it, “starved for funds.” Rogoff warned that with 32 short-term extensions, local and state leaders tend to stop planning long-term projects, which can take many years of planning and building. “When you have 32 short term extensions people lose their vision. Why would you plan a project…if you don’t know the federal government will pay its bills eight months hence?” he asked rhetorically. This is why it is so important to [fix the Highway Trust Fund](www.fixthetrustfund.org) in a way that increases funding: so that we can move beyond the status-quo, and start shaping the future of our transportation network. For example, Rogoff pointed to the Administration’s GROW AMERICA Act, which increases funding for public transit to ensure it can be upgraded to meeting growing demand. The administration is pushing hard for an increase in investment, because they believe that given the political challenges facing this legislation at the end of it there should at least be positives to show for it. “It is no victory to maintain current levels of spending,” said Rogoff. Ultimately, Rogoff had cautious optimism that there could be a multi-year bill passed this year. “Mayors and governors are starting to sound off this is no way to run this program. You can say it with even more credibility,” he concluded. Congressman Blumenauer (D-OR) shared an equally compelling message. The $3.6 trillion investment need estimated by ASCE is “within our capacity and … will repay for itself” he said, adding that it would bring down the deficit in the long term. Blumenauer highlighted many benefits that would result from increasing investment in transportation, including reducing time wasted sitting in traffic, enhancing quality of life for every family, and creating jobs in a range of opportunities. The Congressman earlier this year proposed the [UPDATE Act](http://blogs.asce.org/asce-endorses-an-update-to-the-gas-tax/), HR 680, which would raise the rate of the gas tax by five cents for the next three years then tie it to inflation to address the funding deficit in the Highway Trust Fund. When he introduced the bill, he had 20 co-sponsors and endorsements from many organizations, including ASCE. He acknowledged that many of his colleagues are wary of repercussions from voting for a tax increase. To help them find the political courage, Blumenauer told the Fly-In attendees to reassure them that there is sufficient political cover. “Ninety-eight percent of the legislators that voted to increase the gas tax \[on the state level\] got re-elected in 2014. Make it clear that what ends the career is allowing the country to fall apart if they can’t meet the needs of your community,” said Blumenauer. As further evidence of the historically bipartisan nature of infrastructure investment, Blumenuaer recounted when President Reagan called on Congress to more than double the gas tax in his 1982 Thanksgiving address. Congress responded by doing so when they returned to Washington after the holiday. In conclusion, Blumenauer shared that he counts on ASCE for continued support on this issue and to help get a bill passed: “I hope we’ll be at a signing ceremony in the future for a six-year re-authorization.” [![](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150325_asce_1368-300x200.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/20150325_asce_1368.jpg)Senator Susan Collins meets with her ASCE constituents from Maine Photo credit David HathcoxThe 200 ASCE members in attendance then headed to Capitol Hill to meet with members of Congress and their staffs of 46 states and the District of Columbia. Following the meetings, the group reconvened at a reception in the U.S. Capitol Cannon Caucus Room featuring a [*Dream Big!: Engineering Wonders of the World*](http://www.dreambigfilm.org/) theme in anticipation of the ASCE-sponsored IMAX film coming out next year. ASCE members and Congressional staffers were able to continue their conversations from the afternoon while networking and having some fun taking photos in front of a green screen photo booth, which then transformed the background into iconic infrastructure backdrops. During the proceedings, Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA) were both presented with awards naming them Honorary Fellows of the Society. Sen. Boxer was selected in honor of her more than 30 years of public service, which includes 24 in the U.S. Senate. As Chairwoman of the Environmental and Public Works Committee, she led the effort to enact the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) and the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). Rep. Bill Shuster earned ASCE’s recognition for his efforts as an eight-term member of the House of Representatives. As Chairman of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, he helped shepherd the passage of MAP-21 and steered the effort to enact WRRDA. Including last week’s inductees, there have only been 38 Honorary Fellows named by the Society. Also recognized during the Fly-In were the winners of the inaugural Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year awards, recognizing an individual and group who went above and beyond in advocating for ASCE’s issues in the past year. [This year’s winners were Darren Benoit of New Hampshire and the Louisiana Section. ](http://blogs.asce.org/outstanding-civil-engineer-advocates/) The two days encapsulated the resolve the American Society of Civil Engineers has to encourage Congress to [fix the Highway Trust Fund](www.fixthetrustfund.org) with a long-term, sustainable solution. To contribute in this effort, [sign up to be a Key Contact today.](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FH4_24821.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Meet%20With%20US%20Lawmakers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** advocacy, fly-in, highway trust fund --- ### [It's Time Again to GROW America](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/its-time-again-to-grow-america/) **Published:** April 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Logo](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/GrowAmerica_FullLogo_seal_border-506-300x103.png)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggt4enJGhug "GROW America video") During a recent interview with *Politico*’s Mike Allen, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx [noted ](http://www.politico.com/multimedia/video/2015/03/playbook-lunch-with-gina-mccarthy-and-anthony-foxx.html)that the nation’s transportation system is “in a huge ditch.” Yesterday, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) unveiled its idea on how to get America out of that ditch with their GROW America proposal. If the name sounds familiar, it’s because that was the original title of the previous federal surface transportation program proposal unveiled by the Obama Administration last year. The key difference this year is that the Administration has identified a specific funding source, taxing overseas corporate profits, to pay for the $478 billion, six-year bill. The GROW America [proposal](http://www.dot.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/GROW_AMERICA_Overall_Fact_Sheet.pdf), among other things, would: • Increase the nation’s overall investment in transportation by 45%, with a 29% increase in highway spending and a 76% increase in transit spending; • Provide $18 billion for a multi-modal freight program that strengthens America’s exports and trade; • Include $28.6 billion for passenger rail programs; • Double funding for the TIGER competitive discretionary grant program and create a new $6 billion highway and transit competitive grant program; and • Double the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program which encourages utilization of innovative financing mechanisms. USDOT published a state-by-state [impact ](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america/state-by-state)of the benefits of GROW America investment which included ASCE Report Card data on state needs and economic impacts. The GROW America Act is an important legislative marker that seeks to define the debate about the need to increase federal infrastructure investment in order to meet current and future capacity and maintenance challenges. Funding certainty is important to states for delivering projects, as the six-year time frame supports, but of additional importance is the need to increase overall federal funding. The current revenue rates have not risen since 1993 and since that time the cost to deliver projects has increased. Since 1993, in real terms, the average federal highway dollar has lost over a third of its purchasing power. Please urge your members of Congress to [act ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=76273)now to grow the federal surface transportation program and fix the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20Again%20to%20GROW%20America&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, report card, transportation --- ### [ASCE Recognizes Lawmakers' Infrastructure Leadership](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-recognizes-lawmakers-infrastructure-leadership/) **Published:** April 2, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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leaders dedicated to investing in our roads, bridges, water pipes, levees and other infrastructure. Two such lawmakers who exhibit bold leadership and resolve to improve our nation’s infrastructure are Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Congressman Bill Shuster (R-PA). In recognition of both lawmakers’ efforts to prioritize infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers inducted Sen. Boxer and Rep. Shuster as Honorary Fellows. A rare distinction, only 38 individuals have been bestowed this honor, including these most recent inductees. Sen. Boxer distinguished herself as a champion for infrastructure over the course of her more than 30 years of public service, which includes 24 in the U.S. Senate. As Chairwoman of the Environment and Public Works Committee, she led the effort to enact the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) and the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21). [![](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/BoxerHonFellow-300x200.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/BoxerHonFellow.jpg)Sen Boxer with ASCE members after receiving her award David Hathcox for ASCE[![](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ShusterHonFellow-300x200.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ShusterHonFellow.jpg)Congressman Shuster with ASCE members David Hathcox for ASCESimilarly, Rep. Bill Shuster earned this recognition for his efforts as an eight-term member of the House of Representatives. As Chairman of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, he helped shepherd the passage of MAP-21 and steered the effort to enact WRRDA. Both honorees were recognized by ASCE last week during the 15th annual Legislative Fly-In. Both Congressman Shuster and Sen. Boxer exemplify the type of leadership we need to successfully improve our nation’s “D+” infrastructure. Thanks to their leadership and vision, Congress has started to address the backlog of investment needs. Both lawmakers will continue to play an important role in future infrastructure legislation, starting with the need to find a long-term, sustainable solution to fix the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Recognizes%20Lawmakers%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20Leadership&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Transportation Knows Neither Red Nor Blue](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transportation-knows-neither-red-nor-blue/) **Published:** April 3, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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gas tax, our nation’s infrastructure funding needs are being addressed more intentionally. However, with the federal surface transportation bill ([MAP-21](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/map21/)) expiring at the end of May, Congress is running out of time to pass a sustainable funding solution. In [Michigan](http://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2015/03/31/anthony-foxx-detroit-economic-club-transportation-secretary-rick-snyder-roads/70721146/), standing alongside Governor Rick Snyder, DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx pitched the [Grow America Act](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america) that would tax corporations’ overseas profits and gasoline to raise $478 billion over six years for road and transit improvements. Gov. Snyder is campaigning for a proposal to raise more than $1 billion for statewide road improvements in Michigan. Both of these transportation bills seek to efficiently fund underinvested roads. In response to Foxx and Snyder’s propositions and to motivate bipartisan cooperation to find a sustainable funding solution, Rep. Debbie Dingell noted that, “We don’t have Democratic or Republican potholes.” Democratic and Republican legislators in [several states](http://www.taxjusticeblog.org/archive/2015/01/12_states_could_raise_gas_taxe.php#.VR7hwo5BEsK) throughout the country have either made or proposed gas tax increases. According to [*The Atlantic*](http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2015/03/how-red-states-learned-to-love-the-gas-tax/389084/), Republican governors in [Utah](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/235827-utah-increases-gas-tax), [Iowa](http://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/opinion/readers/2015/03/31/use-gas-tax-revenue-fix-deteriorating-roads-first/70705286/), [Georgia](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/237709-georgia-hikes-gas-tax), [Michigan ](http://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/2015/03/28/fuel-tax-sales-tax-road-repairs/70558632/)and [South Dakota ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/236066-south-dakota-hikes-gas-tax)have proposed gas tax increases. In Utah, a Republican state senator, Kevin Van Tassell, said that the gas tax, “might be dying but it’s not dead and it’s probably the cheapest and most effective tax we have to administer and collect.” Clearly governors of both parties are realizing that raising their gas tax is a necessary step to funding aging infrastructure. These state and federal propositions are steps in the right direction for restoring our nation’s infrastructure. Given the Highway Trust Fund’s impending insolvency, it is more critical than ever that Congress work together to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund.](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Transportation%20Knows%20Neither%20Red%20Nor%20Blue&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F3964702326_844293301e_o1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Transportation%20Knows%20Neither%20Red%20Nor%20Blue "Share on 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=8%20Amazing%201940s%20American%20Infrastructure%20Images "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F04%2Fchicagodecember1942construction-265x203.jpg&description=8%20Amazing%201940s%20American%20Infrastructure%20Images "Pin it with 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Color*](http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/bound-for-glory/exhibition-items.html "Bound for Glory") exhibition of newly digitized color images taken of 1940s America, several show the infrastructure that people made their livings working on and that helped grow the country. The photographs are by famed photographers such as John Vachon, Jack Delano, Russell Lee, and Marion Post Wolcott and “mark a historic divide in visual presentation between the monochrome world of the pre-modern age and the brilliant hues of the present. They change the way we look—and think about—our past.” ![View in a departure yard at Chicago and Northwestern Railway Company's Proviso yard at twilight. Chicago, Illinois, December 1942. Reproduction from color slide. Photo by Jack Delano. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/chicagodecember1942construction-265x203.jpg) ![A welder who works in the round-house at the Chicago and Northwestern Railway Company's Proviso yard. Chicago, Illinois, December 1942. Reproduction from color slide. Photo by Jack Delano. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/awelder-268x203.jpg) [![Welder Mike Evans at Proviso yard of the Chicago and Northwest Railway Company Chicago IL April 1943 Photo by Jack Delano Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Welder-Mike-Evans-at-Proviso-yard-of-the-Chicago-and-Northwest-Railway-Company-Chicago-IL-April-1943-Photo-by-Jack-Delano-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Welder-Mike-Evans-at-Proviso-yard-of-the-Chicago-and-Northwest-Railway-Company-Chicago-IL-April-1943-Photo-by-Jack-Delano-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [![Switchman throwing a switch at Chicago and Northwest Railway Company Proviso yard Chicago, Illinois, April 1943. Photo by Jack Delano. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Switchman-throwing-a-switch-at-Chicago-and-Northwest-Railway-Company-Proviso-yard-Chicago-Illinois-April-1943.-Photo-by-Jack-Delano.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Switchman-throwing-a-switch-at-Chicago-and-Northwest-Railway-Company-Proviso-yard-Chicago-Illinois-April-1943.-Photo-by-Jack-Delano.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [![Rebuilt caboose at Proviso yard Chicago IL April 1943 Photo by Jack Delano Prints and Photographs Division Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Rebuilt-caboose-at-Proviso-yard-Chicago-IL-April-1943-Photo-by-Jack-Delano-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Rebuilt-caboose-at-Proviso-yard-Chicago-IL-April-1943-Photo-by-Jack-Delano-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [![Shasta dam under construction. California, June 1942. Reproduction from color slide. Photo by Russell Lee. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Shasta-dam-under-construction.-California-June-1942.-Reproduction-from-color-slide.-Photo-by-Russell-Lee.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Shasta-dam-under-construction.-California-June-1942.-Reproduction-from-color-slide.-Photo-by-Russell-Lee.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [![TVA's Douglas Dam TN June 1942 Photo by Alfred T Palmer Prints and Photographs Division Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/TVAs-Douglas-Dam-TN-June-1942-Photo-by-Alfred-T-Palmer-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/TVAs-Douglas-Dam-TN-June-1942-Photo-by-Alfred-T-Palmer-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [![Road cut into the barren hills which lead into Emmett. Emmett, Idaho, July 1941. Reproduction from color slide. Photo by Russell Lee. Prints and Photographs Division, Library of Congress](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Road-cut-into-the-barren-hills-which-lead-into-Emmett.-Emmett-Idaho-July-1941.-Reproduction-from-color-slide.-Photo-by-Russell-Lee.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Road-cut-into-the-barren-hills-which-lead-into-Emmett.-Emmett-Idaho-July-1941.-Reproduction-from-color-slide.-Photo-by-Russell-Lee.-Prints-and-Photographs-Division-Library-of-Congress.jpg) [Photos courtesy of the Library of Congress Bound for Glory Exhibition](http://www.loc.gov/exhibits/bound-for-glory/exhibition-items.html "LOC Bound for Glory") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure, rail, road, train, transportation --- ### [Michigan Must Say Yes to Safer Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/michigan-must-say-yes-to-safer-roads/) **Published:** April 8, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Michigan%20Must%20Say%20Yes%20to%20Safer%20Roads&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FIMG_00531.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Michigan%20Must%20Say%20Yes%20to%20Safer%20Roads "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Michigan%20Must%20Say%20Yes%20to%20Safer%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In Michigan, a common saying is “there are two seasons: winter and road construction.” Rough winters and underinvestment for the past 50 years have led the Great Lakes state to have some of the worst roads in the nation. And while construction season may seem constant during the warmer months, the truth is currently the state cannot keep up with meeting the needs to maintain or improve roads and bridges. The continual underinvestment has led to a backlog of needs and safety issues. Gov. Rick Snyder has been advocating for the past few years that something needs to be done to change the state’s trajectory. Last December, in an eleventh hour deal, the state legislature decided to punt the decision to the voters. In just under a month, the option to increase funding for roads will be considered at the polls. If passed, Proposal 1 would raise $1.2 billion a year to be invested exclusively into transportation. As I drove around my hometown last week, this seemed like a no-brainer. [![The intersection of 12 Mile and Drake has many deep and wide potholes.](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IMG_0051-225x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IMG_0051.jpg)The intersection of 12 Mile and Drake has many deep and wide potholesI’ve included a couple photos, but it does not fully do the problem justice. Many roads are in such bad shape that debris lines the shoulders of the street, rubble that is a byproduct of the potholes and gaping cracks in the pavement. The same month state lawmakers devised Prop 1, TRIP released a study revealing poor roads were costing the average Michigan driver $539 a year —and remember it’s the Motor City, people love their cars and many work for the auto industry. In some areas the extra vehicle operation costs that include accelerated vehicle depreciation, additional repairs, increased fuel consumption and tire wear costs drivers as much as $851 a year. **Here is how Proposal 1 works:** - Raise the state sales tax rate by one penny, from 6 percent to 7 percent - Implement a series of laws that exempt fuel from the sales tax, then impose a higher fuel tax whose revenue would be used exclusively for transportation - Raise vehicle registration fees to increase transportation funding **More importantly, here is what it will do:** - Raises $1.2 billion each year to increase investment in transportation—bringing Michigan more in line with the transportation investment of neighboring states - Ensure every penny raised at the gas pump goes to improving Michigan’s roads, bridges and public transit - Protect taxpayers by getting road builders to give warranties on the roads they build ASCE joins a wide range of groups in supporting Proposal 1. From [Gov. Snyder ](http://woodtv.com/2015/03/29/to-the-point-gov-snyder-on-prop-1/) to [*The Detroit Free Press*](http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/editorials/2015/03/14/proposal-michigan-endorsement/70306716/), [Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan](https://www.facebook.com/saferoadsyes/photos/a.912685635438036.1073741828.906301109409822/944556022250997/?type=1&theater) to [Mlive.com](http://www.mlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2015/04/vote_yes_on_proposal_1_for_roa.html), and [*The Detroit News*](http://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/editorials/2015/04/01/edit-vote-yes-prop/70789412/) to [the Small Business Association of Michigan](http://www.saferoadsyes.com/coalition/). Tell your friends, family, and neighbors to vote “Yes” on May 5th so that the condition of Michigan’s roads and bridges can start improving. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Michigan%20Must%20Say%20Yes%20to%20Safer%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Michigan, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, Michigan, roads, surface transportation, transit --- ### [Water main breaks, power outage and a thinning hourglass for federal highway funds](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-main-breaks-power-outage-and-a-thinning-hourglass-for-federal-highway-funds/) **Published:** April 10, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure is interconnected and greatly impacts our daily lives and national economy. The highway and transit policy and expires 51 days from today so it is critical that Congress act quickly to find a sustainable, long-term funding solution. Aging water infrastructure causes a water main break once every two minutes. On Wednesday, a 12-inch water main broke in [New York City](http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2015/04/08/west-village-water-main-break-reroutes-no-1-train/), forcing the evacuation of 500 people from a train and shutting down the surrounding trains and streets in the process. In [California](http://www.forbes.com/sites/trangho/2015/04/04/irresistible-investment-opportunities-gushing-from-californias-epic-water-crisis/), the current water shortage crisis due to drought will require the state to spend $39 billion to meet its population’s drinking and, dry weather and a large population, means that they need to spend $39 billion to meet its population’s drinking water needs. Water infrastructure, including locks and dams, are critical to facilitating trade. According to the [National Journal](http://www.nationaljournal.com/energy/despite-white-house-cuts-appropriators-look-to-lock-down-some-dam-money-20150408), more than $200 billion worth of goods are shipped every year on massive barges crawling along major rivers and tributaries. But the aging locks and dams built nearly a century ago are hindering ships’ ability to transport goods efficiently. “Just imagine what that does for commerce—if you’re shipping a product down the river and it just stops,” ASCE Past President Greg DiLoreto said. “There’s a real economic tie to the condition of this infrastructure.” In addition to water infrastructure, electric infrastructure also needs maintenance and attention. On Tuesday, a widespread power outage in [D.C. ](http://www.dailysabah.com/americas/2015/04/07/major-power-outage-hits-white-house-capitol-in-washington-dc)and the surrounding area affected many government buildings, four surrounding museums and select subway stations. Water and electricity infrastructure are crucial to our nation’s economy and trade and impact the daily life of all Americans. The highway and transit policy expires in less than two months. It is important that Congress work together to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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Modifications](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/seven-states-say-yes-to-gas-tax-modifications/) **Published:** April 13, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Seven%20States%20Say%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Gas%20Tax%20Modifications&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F04%2FGas-Pump-300x300.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Seven%20States%20Say%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Gas%20Tax%20Modifications "Share on 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These states used a variety of available revenue sources to raise money for their aging roads and bridges. No matter what sort of package these states put together, the common thread was that they all included an adjustment of the gas tax. ASCE supports an [all options on the table approach](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/) to ensuring transportation infrastructure receives adequate funding. States that followed suit and pushed through funding measure that included gas tax increases include: - **Georgia** – Governor Nathan Deal signed [a $1 billion transportation funding package](http://savannahnow.com/news/2015-04-01/ga-governor-says-he-will-sign-transportation-funding-proposal) approved by the General Assembly on March 31. The bill converts the current state sales tax on gas to an excise tax set at 26-cents per gallon for passenger vehicles and 29-cents per gallon for commercial vehicles among other fee increases. Despite the size of the package, it is estimated that much of the newly generated revenue will be directed toward the maintenance and improvement of existing roads. - **Idaho** – Idaho extended its legislative session for [the purposes of addressing its](http://www.idahostatesman.com/2015/04/10/3743045_idaho-conference-committee-recesses.html?rh=1) funding shortfall. After pushing through competing proposals, the two chambers came together in a last-minute conference committee to achieve a 7-cent increase effective July 1, 2015 and a combination of increase user fees and access to available funds from future budget surpluses. While a great stride for Idaho, unfortunately, this bill will only generate an estimated $94 million of the $262 million in additional funding the state needs. (This bill is currently awaiting Governor Butch Otter’s signature.) - **Iowa** – The first and fastest to act on an increase to their gas tax. While the vote was many years in the making, both chambers consented to raising the gas tax by 10-cents per gallon within a matter of hours. [Governor Terry Branstad signed it into law](http://theiowarepublican.com/2015/branstad-signs-gas-tax-increase/) the next day and four days later more money was being raised for transportation projects. The revenue generated by this increase will be used to fund the maintenance of Iowa’s structurally deficient bridges and provide an additional revenue stream for transportation projects at the local level. - **South Dakota** – Governor Dennis Daugaard signed into law a [6-cent per gallon gas tax increase](http://www.kdlt.com/news/local-news/Governor-Signs-Measure-That-Includes-April-1-Gas-Tax-Hike/31854180) effective on April 1. It is estimated the increase in the gas tax and other motor vehicle fees will generate $85 million a year for state and local transportation projects. The measure also creates a “local bridge improvement grant fund” through which some of the newly generated revenue will be distributed. - **Utah** – Utah was the second state to approve a [gas tax increase in 2015](http://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2015/04/02/mgk-governor-signs-final-bills-tax-increases-criminal-justice-reform-veteran-matters/#.VSbAaPzF90o). The increase goes into effect January 1, 2016. It will also continue to increase in future years using a system similar to the state’s sales tax. The bill also imposes a 12% tax on the wholesale price of gas when the price of gas reaches $2.45 a gallon and the overall gas tax rate been capped at 40-cents. Utah has made a number of positive investments in its transportation systems in recent years and this increase will ensure the state can plan accordingly for wear-and-tear and meet the needs of the growing population. Next up for these states is creating their project lists and allocating the newly raised revenue toward maintenance and construction. Since nearly 20 years have lapsed since the last gas tax increase for many of these states the increase simply allows the Department of Transportation to plan, and purchase, using 2015 dollars. We’re hopeful the states will be able to reap immediate benefits that will make future increases to the gas tax easier to push through. This gas tax question also posed interesting challenges this session for two states that took action to prevent projected reductions from this revenue stream included Kentucky and North Carolina. In each state the formula for calculating the gas tax would have resulted in dramatic drops come the July 1 adjustment date. Each state’s legislature took action to preserve current levels of funding in order to allow time to develop a longer term, more sustainable funding option. Here’s what they did: - **Kentucky** –The legislature here [voted to freeze its gas tax](http://www.wtvq.com/story/d/story/kentucky-freezes-gas-tax-at-26-cents-per-gallon/74873/NJAwWJB2B0S1WgLbuHSjDQ) at 26-cents per gallon. While this is about a 1.5-cent per gallon decrease, it avoids a projected 5.1-cent per gallon decrease in upcoming months. The legislature also used this measure to modify its funding formula in the hopes of preventing future dips. - **North Carolina** – In a single day, [the legislature passed and the Governor signed](http://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/politics-government/article17043191.html) a 1.5-cent decrease in its gas tax effective April 1 and a reduction to 34-cents per gallon by January 2016. While this will not raise funds immediately, like Kentucky’s freeze, this measure will prevent a dramatic drop in the rates later this year. A new formula for calculating the gas tax will take effect on January 1, 2017 and is expected to result in additional revenue, in the form of a projected 2% increase per year, for the state’s Highway Trust. These states bring the total to 14 states since 2013 who have taken critical steps toward raising additional funds for transportation. With so much activity we ask ourselves [“Who will be next?”](http://blogs.asce.org/raising-revenue-for-infrastructure-who-will-be-next/) Well, among the states we are watching closely are Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Washington. Of course, we are hopeful the legislatures who are still weighing how to vote on transportation funding bills will cast a vote to keep up with their neighbors. 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legislative session has seen a high level of activity from states ](http://blogs.asce.org/seven-states-say-yes-to-gas-tax-modifications/)attempting to modify their gas tax to keep up with their infrastructure needs. We’re keeping a close eye on the nearly 40 states that are still in session and hopeful they will vote “yes” for infrastructure time and again. Among the states to watch closely are Michigan, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, South Carolina and Washington. All have hinted they might take action this year. Here’s what to expect and watch for: - **Michigan** has put its [funding decision in the hands of voters](http://blogs.asce.org/michigan-must-say-yes-to-safer-roads/). They’re being asked to go to the polls on May 5th to raise the sales tax by 1% and increase vehicle registration fees. The legislature doesn’t adjourn until December so in the event the ballot measure fails, the state lawmakers will likely head back to the drawing board. - **Nebraska’s** legislature is [two rounds of voting](http://www.omaha.com/news/legislature/higher-nebraska-gas-taxes-a-step-closer-to-reality-as/article_19e43eb7-48b6-5d0a-8bf5-bda4922a205b.html) away from a phased in 6-cent per gallon increase. The bill may meet opposition from the Governor, if it clears the legislature. Its next hurdle would then be a veto override. - **New Jersey** is in the unusual position of having to raise revenues to preserve its [Transportation Trust Fund](http://www.northjersey.com/news/legislative-budget-officer-n-j-treasurer-agree-on-forecast-differ-on-spending-1.1299029) The fund is expected to run dry sometime this summer and will indeed impact the way The Garden State maintains its highways and bridges. - **South Carolina** has a number of proposals on the table. More importantly than the number of options being considered is the fact that [the Legislature and the Governor](http://news.heartland.org/newspaper-article/2015/03/28/haley-rejects-gas-tax-hike-proposal) will need to find common ground when it comes to raising additional revenue for roads. In her State of the State Address, Governor Nikki Haley indicated she would support no more than a 10-cent per gallon tax increase and only if there were offsets in other areas to keep the state competitive with its neighbors. - **Washington** state’s legislature has [proposed an 11-cent per gallon increase](http://www.dispatchnews.com/2015/03/11/plan-with-11-cent-gas-tax-increase-advances/) as part of a larger transportation funding package that would also increase a number of driver fees. With a projected adjournment date just around the corner, April 26, hopefully they will finish their work with decisive action for transportation investment. Other states that have funding packages in the works are Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Minnesota, Montana and New Hampshire. Each of these legislatures has circulated a number of legislative proposals to raise revenue for transportation. They also all have committed to improving infrastructure on the whole. Whether it’s investing in transit ([Connecticut](http://www.newstimes.com/local/article/Malloy-proposes-transit-authority-for-train-6138073.php)), a large scale public works proposal ([Minnesota](http://www.mprnews.org/story/2015/04/07/public-works-package)), or take two at a gas tax increase ([Missouri](http://www.landlinemag.com/Story.aspx?StoryID=28837#.VSv_K_zF90o)), hopefully these states [will join the movement](http://blogs.asce.org/seven-states-say-yes-to-gas-tax-modifications/) and act before closing up shop at the statehouse. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Raising%20Revenue%20for%20Infrastructure%3A%20Who%20will%20be%20next%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, Save America's Infrastructure, South Carolina, Washington **Tags:** Michigan, Nebraska, New Jersey, South Carolina, state, state government, Washington --- ### [Water Week Focuses on Efficiency Technologies, Aging Infrastructure and Value of Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-week-focuses-on-efficiency-technologies-aging-infrastructure-and-value-of-water/) **Published:** April 15, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")We are in the midst of this year’s [Water Week](http://www.waterweek.us/), which includes a marathon four-day affair in Washington, DC that brings water wonks from across the country together to discuss trending water issues with lawmakers and regulators. The week kicked off with a presentation by [Robert Glennon](http://rglennon.com/speaking/press-kit/bio/), author of *Unquenchable: America’s Water Crisis and What to Do About It.* Glennon’s message of how to build a sustainable water future resonated with many in town from the arid west, especially those from California, which is facing the worst drought in 1200 years. As an additional challenge, as illustrated by [this map](http://www.epa.gov/watersense/our_water/tomorrow_beyond.html) from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),the nation’s fastest growing areas also have some of the highest per capita water use, which will further strain water resources throughout the country. Strain placed on the nation’s aging water infrastructure, graded a “D” in the ASCE [*Report Card for Americas Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*,* can lead to serious measures, including rationing or higher service rates. Water Week attracts a diverse group of stakeholders, including the most well represented industry [clean water agencies](http://www.nacwa.org/) (utilities that treat wastewater). With higher demand on aging systems, strict regulatory mandates, financially stretched rate-payers and the threat of extreme weather, clean water utilities across the country are grappling with major demand, financing, capital upgrade and operations and maintenance issues. These obstacles are pushing utilities to find cost-effective and efficient solutions for treatment and to look for sound ways to best use their end product. For the first time in the history of Water Week, the [Water Reuse Association](https://www.watereuse.org/association) was a major sponsor. The organization is the primary trade group for reclaimed water, which with minimal purification can be used for irrigation or with special purification can be placed back into service. As is almost always the case, much of the discussion this week came back to one theme: how to pay for needed infrastructure upgrades. Utilities can increase rates, rely on federal government loans, issue bonds or seek private funds. While rate increases are unpopular, many argue that we under value and under pay for water services in the U.S., a concept that the [Value of Water Coalition](http://thevalueofwater.org/) is trying to change. For traditional finaicincing, the [State Revolving Fund](http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/cwsrf/cwsrf_index.cfm) (SRF) program remains popular, but new eligible activities approved in the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act](http://blogs.asce.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2014-water-resources-reform-development-act/) (WRRDA) means the competition for dollars will be greater than ever. Competition for SRF funds may be exacerbated if projects rely on the fund to round out project financing due to the current [prohibition on tax-exempt bonds in WIFIA](http://www.awwa.org/resources-tools/public-affairs/press-room/press-release/articleid/3293/water-leaders-to-congress-free-wifia-from-tax-exempt-bond-prohibition.aspx). It’s encouraging to see that when the water industry comes to DC to make the case for more federal support, they do so by showcasing a plethora of new technologies for water efficiency and plans to make their communities water cleaner and better for the environment. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Week%20Focuses%20on%20Efficiency%20Technologies%2C%20Aging%20Infrastructure%20and%20Value%20of%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** Drinking Water, wastewater --- ### [Ideas to Fix the Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ideas-to-the-fix-the-trust-fund/) **Published:** April 17, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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before last summer’s extension ends on May 31. A few members of Congress wasted no time upon their return to the Hill to start raising this issue and offering their solutions. On Thursday a bipartisan group of House members filed legislation to increase the federal gas tax to match inflation in order to finance our much-needed transportation investment. The [Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/239095-bill-filed-to-index-gas-tax-to-inflation)would increase the gas tax to recoup its purchasing power, thus generating $27.5 billion that can be used to pay for nearly two years’ worth of transportation. In the release announcement explaining what prompted the lawmakers to propose this solution, Reps. Jim Renacci (R-Ohio), Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.), Reid Ribble (R-Wis.), and Dan Lipinski (D-Ill.) explained “We refuse to pass on the liability of our deteriorating roads and bridges to our children and grandchildren. The longer we wait to fix our crumbling infrastructure, the more it will cost in the long-run,” in a [joint statement](http://thebrowndispatch.com/) about the bill. On April 15, Representative Delaney and Representative Hanna wrote a [letter ](http://delaney.house.gov/news/press-releases/delaney-and-hanna-write-to-house-leaders-urging-long-term-highway-fix)to their fellow members of Congress emphasizing the importance of committing to a long-term sustainable funding bill and supporting their bill, the [Infrastructure 2.0 Act t](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/625)hat has bipartisan support to repatriate overseas capital for domestic infrastructure repairs. On the Senate side, Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) and Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) have a bill to replenish the Highway Trust Fund, also through repatriation. All three of these efforts exemplify that infrastructure has historically been a bipartisan success, and that finding a solution to federal transportation investment is no different. Finding a long-term federal transportation funding solution affects each state and its ability to effectively plan projects. According to the [U.S. Department of Transportation](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2015/04/15/gas-tax-highway-bill-unions-boxer/25848153/), Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee and Wyoming have already postponed transportation projects because of funding delays. With 44 days until the highway and transit policy expires, it is crucial these conversations lead to action that ensures a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Ideas%20to%20Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, surface transportation --- ### [What You Don't Know About Vermont's Dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/what-you-dont-know-about-vermonts-dams/) **Published:** April 20, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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knows exactly what the condition of these structures is. Just as much as poor condition, it’s the lack of information that poses a risk to Vermont. This is the lesson Jessica Louisos, a civil engineer with the Waterbury firm Milone & MacBroom and a co-author of the [Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vermont/vermont-overview/ "VT Report Card") by the American Society of Civil Engineers, shares in a [new PBS interview](http://www.vermontpbs.org/newsguy "PBS Vermont Dams video"). 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email")](mailto:?subject=What%20You%20Don%E2%80%99t%20Know%20About%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20Dams&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure, Vermont **Tags:** dams, legislation, report card, Vermont --- ### [Education Bill on the Move](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/education-bill-on-the-move/) **Published:** April 21, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Education%20Bill%20on%20the%20Move "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Education%20Bill%20on%20the%20Move&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Exposing students to a science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) curriculum is an essential part of making sure we are prepared for our future infrastructure needs, as it ensures that the next generation has civil engineers who can continue to be stewards of our nation’s infrastructure. Currently, the U.S. Congress is considering an education bill that would play a role in defining the STEM curriculum. The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee last week approved, by an unexpected unanimous vote, the Every Child Achieves Act. The bill was a compromise worked out between Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Ranking Democrat Patty Murray (D-WA) and would reauthorize and amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), replacing the previous version best known as “No Child Left Behind.” NCLB has proven to be controversial and since 2006 efforts by Congress to move to the next reauthorization have failed. The approval last week by the HELP Committee is the first positive move in some time. As approved the bill would continue to require the current level of testing in reading, math, and science, but it would allow states to set up their own accountability systems. Essentially [the law continues to measure the academic progress of students](http://www.help.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/?id=99d8cec3-ad6b-4d2d-8306-9a3a8a511ae2&groups=Chair), but restore to states the responsibility for deciding what to do about improving student achievement. The compromise nature of the measure means that few policy stakeholder groups are fully satisfied with the bill in its current form. Consideration by the full Senate, which hasn’t yet been scheduled, is likely to spark some partisan fireworks over issues ranging from school vouchers to the level of the power the U.S. Department of Education should have when it comes to ensuring schools are improved for disadvantaged students. [To foster an appreciation and understanding of Stem at the K-12 level](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-377---science/), one of ASCE’s 2015 Federal Priority Issues, based on a survey of members and adopted by the Board of Direction, is STEM education. Toward that end, ASCE is a member of the [STEM Education Coalition](http://www.stemedcoalition.org/), a Coalition which is comprised of more than 500 business, professional and education organizations, with the goal of improving U.S. achievement in STEM subjects. Since ESEA is the single largest federal legislation dealing with K-12 education, it is the Coalition goal to make sure that any reauthorization makes STEM education a priority. ASCE and its allies in the STEM Coalition score a victory during the bill’s consideration when a Coalition-endorsed amendment sponsored by Senators Al Franken (D-MN), Mark Kirk (R-IL) was adopted by a 12-10 vote. The amendment provides each state with formula-based funding to support partnerships between local schools, businesses, universities, and non-profit organizations to improve student learning in STEM subjects. Each state would choose how to spend and prioritize these funds, which can support a wide range of STEM activities from in-depth teacher training, to engineering design competitions, to improving the diversity of the STEM workforce. As mentioned above, the legislation faces hurdles ahead. Providing the measure can gain full Senate approval, there is still the matter of the House of Representatives. The House Education and Workforce Committee approved their version of ESEA reauthorization, H.R. 5, the Student Success Act on a strictly partisan vote. However, on the House floor, the bill stalled after conservative groups objected that the bill did not go far enough to cut programs and pull back federal involvement in education. Provided the full Senate can approve its version of the reauthorization, it is clear that the only way forward is for the House Republican leadership to accept Democratic support in order to move the bill to the White House. 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outdated infrastructure conditions, lawmakers and members of Congress are raising their voices to find sustainable funding solutions. With just 37 days until our current transportation funding extension expires, several states and industries are making their case for investment. In [Michigan](http://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/mike-thompson/2015/04/22/michigan-proposal-1-roads-road-repair/26140127/), harsh winters and lack of repairs have left only 17 percent of the roads in good condition, costing vehicle owners an additional $132 in damage costs each year. Since [Michigan](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2015/04/20/road-report-michigan-funding/26083971/)’s “largest economic sectors-manufacturing, agriculture and tourism-are highly reliant on an efficient and well-maintained transportation system,” addressing transportation needs is critical to the state’s economic well being. In response to the great investment need, Proposal 1, an amendment that would raise the state sales tax from 6 percent to 7 percent, would help pay for road repair among other things. Infrastructure impacts every sector of our economy —including our nation’s agriculture. A recent [article ](http://www.nationaljournal.com/congress/house-transportation-committee/getting-from-farm-to-table-20150422)in National Journal explored the challenges farmers and ranchers face in getting their products to markets both here and overseas through waterways, rails, roads and ports. In order to support our nation’s agriculture, locks and dams need to be rebuilt, roads need to be resurfaced, trains need new tracks and ports need modernization and stable labor relations. This week the U.S. Senate held [two hearings](http://www.banking.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Hearing&Hearing_ID=b3b20830-1400-4413-9a20-6649b93dac9a) on the federal transit program. During the hearings, the Banking Committee heard from transit stakeholders and Acting Federal Transit Administration Chief Therese McMillan on the need to provide additional funding for capital grants to match the growth in transit projects seeking funding. The Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Subcommittee also held a hearing on the Obama administration’s fiscal year 2016 (FY16) budget request, which includes the surface transportation re-authorization [GROW America proposal](http://www.dot.gov/grow-america). During the hearing, Foxx addressed questions about GROW America’s ability to ensure long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund. In response to criticisms that the act would not ensure long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund, Foxx pointed to the hope that visible infrastructure improvements might motivate lawmakers to secure a long-term federal funding solution. These state and federal propositions are steps in the right direction for restoring our nation’s infrastructure. Given the Highway Trust Fund’s impending insolvency, it is more critical than ever that Congress work together to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund.](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Another%20packed%20week%20in%20Washington&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F9399891758_95d970a640_z1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Another%20packed%20week%20in%20Washington "Share on 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email")[![ASCE-Infra-Week-Promo](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ASCE-Infra-Week-Promo.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ASCE-Infra-Week-Promo.png) The national week dedicated to highlighting the critical importance of investing in and modernizing America’s infrastructure systems, and the essential role infrastructure plays in our economy is May 11-15. The third-annual [Infrastructure Week](http://infrastructureweek.org/) includes more than 30 events around the country from Alaska to Louisiana to New York. A few of the events include: - MONDAY in Washington, D.C. – Infrastructure Week Launch: Breaking through to the Future - TUESDAY in Cleveland, OH – Follow the Flow: Celebrating Clean Water Investments in the Cleveland Metro - WEDNESDAY in Pittsburgh, PA – Pittsburgh on the Move and[ Infrastructure Advocacy Day](http://infrastructureweek.org/schedule/event-schedule-5/?elqTrackId=73373BCA877E2B3AA32CEE5DC0B70E07&elqTrack=true) in Washington, D.C. - THURSDAY in New Orleans, LA – Infrastructure Delivers More Than You Think with Tour of Port NOLA - FRIDAY in Washington, D.C. – Building Resilience through New Financing Vehicles Visit [www.infrastructureweek.org](http://infrastructureweek.org/) to view the full calendar of events and follow on Twitter at [@RebuildRenew](https://twitter.com/rebuildrenew) and [\#RebuildRenew.](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23RebuildRenew) 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email")](mailto:?subject=Be%20a%20Part%20of%20Infrastructure%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Ports, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, planes, ports, report card, roads, states, trains --- ### [Majority of Americans Say Yes to Gas Tax Increase to Fund Transportation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/majority-of-americans-say-yes-to-gas-tax-increase-to-fund-transportation/) **Published:** April 30, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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how to best [fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/), often times lawmakers shy away from the most direct funding source: a raise to the federal gas tax. Its last increase was in 1993, and since that time it has lost a third of its purchasing power. While many states have taken bipartisan action in the past few years to better fund their roads, bridges, and transit using this method, federal lawmakers have continued to be reluctant as previous research has indicated opposition to an increase. However, [a new research](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/240527-poll-voters-would-support-10-cent-gas-tax-hike) poll shows that a majority of voters would support an increase to the gas tax, so long as it goes toward better transportation infrastructure. [The study, released by the Mineta Transportation Institute,](http://transweb.sjsu.edu/project/1328.html) found 69 percent of respondents willing to pay a 10-cent per gallon increase for improved road maintenance. In addition to supporting an increased investment in roads and bridges, two-thirds of respondents also agreed that some gas tax revenues should go toward transit, as most people want good public transit service in their state. As Congress must act by May 31 to reauthorize the surface transportation law, this new study demonstrates that voters support finding the needed funding through an increase to the gas tax. While the 10-cent increase tested in this research would not grow our system in the future, it can act as a springboard to improve America’s roads, bridges, and transit. The bottom line: Americans want better transportation and they are willing to pay for it. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Majority%20of%20Americans%20Say%20Yes%20to%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase%20to%20Fund%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, gas tax, highway trust fund, public transit, roads --- ### [Highway Trust Fund Insolvency: 30 Days and Counting](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/highway-trust-fund-insolvency-30-days-and-counting/) **Published:** May 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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From highways to transit to ports, our nation depends on infrastructure to thrive. Though federal lawmakers are once again looking toward a short-term funding patch for the beleaguered Highway Trust Fund, ASCE continues to advocate for a long-term, sustainable funding solution. There have been several bills proposed by legislators in the past few months. The [Update Act ](https://www.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/3636)and [Repatriation bill ](http://www.bondbuyer.com/news/washington-infrastructure/paul-to-offer-bill-to-fund-highways-through-repatriation-1069794-1.html)are two proposals that have garnered considerable media attention. In [USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2015/04/30/temporary-tax-would-finance-highway-trust-fund/26644347/), Rep. Paul Ryan lauded the Repatriation bill, aimed at lowering the tax rate on overseas profits earned by U.S. corporations and using the tax revenue for the Highway Trust Fund, as part of a permanent reform going from a worldwide system to a “more internationally competitive exemption system.” ASCE supports these bills to fund surface transportation; however neither proposal has gained significant traction or bipartisan consensus on Capitol Hill. According to a recent [poll ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/240527-poll-voters-would-support-10-cent-gas-tax-hike)by Mineta Transportation Institute, 71 percent of voters would be willing to pay a dime more than the current 18.4 cents-per-gallon gas tax if the money is spent on “projects to maintain streets, roads and highways.” In contrast to funding patches, raising the federal gas tax would be a stable source of [direct funding ](http://blogs.asce.org/majority-of-americans-say-yes-to-gas-tax-increase-to-fund-transportation/)for transportation [infrastructure](http://upstatebusinessjournal.com/takeaway/overcoming-the-failure-to-act/). While things at the federal level seem to have stalled, in [Michigan ](http://michigandistilled.org/2015/04/29/transportation-funding-an-exciting-future-is-within-reach/)voters will soon vote on [Proposition 1](http://michigandistilled.org/2015/01/29/transportation-funding-howd-we-get-here/), which would increase the state sales tax by 1 percent to generate around $1.2 billion a year for roads and at least $107 million annually for public transit and passenger rail. These state and federal propositions are steps in the right direction for restoring our nation’s transportation infrastructure. Given the Highway Trust Fund’s impending insolvency, it is more critical than ever that Congress work together to pass legislation to provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Insolvency%3A%2030%20Days%20and%20Counting&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund --- ### [Michigan Back to Square One to Fix Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/michigan-back-to-square-one-to-fix-roads/) **Published:** May 6, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Roads](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Michigan-Roads-225x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Michigan-Roads.jpg)On May 5 voters from Detroit to Marquette resoundingly opposed the idea of a change to the state constitution invest in better and safer roads. In an 80% to 20% vote Michiganders opted to consider “Plan B” rather than enact a slight increase in sales and fuel taxes that would have raised $1.3 billion for road maintenance and improvements. Ensuring adequate investment in Michigan’s roads has been a long time goal for Gov. Rick Snyder. He had this to offer after yesterday’s poll results came in: *“It’s essential that making Michigan’s infrastructure safer remains a top priority. While voters didn’t support this particular proposal, we know they want action taken to maintain and improve our roads and bridges. We appreciate that this bipartisan plan was supported by so many groups – business leaders and unions, public safety officials and local governments, teachers, and the list goes on. I plan to work with my partners in the Legislature on a solution that gives Michigan residents the safe roads they need and deserve and bolsters our growing economy.”* No matter what path is used to move Michigan forward, the sentiment from voters and policymakers alike is that something must be done to improve roads. There is general consensus that the state must act now. In this vein the Governor and legislators have [begun to get to work](http://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/2015/05/05/proposal-one-michigan-road-fail-alternatives-plans/26947533/) on a viable alternative to Proposition 1. There are currently 10 plans in varying stages of development that could help Michigan meet it transportation infrastructure needs. Options range from vehicle-miles traveled to toll roads to a gas tax increase that would focus exclusively on fuel (rather than packaged together with other tax code changes as appeared on Tuesday’s ballot). While defeat is never an easy pill to swallow, the time is now to regroup and continue to urge action. ASCE’s Michigan Section along with a number of municipal, agriculture and business groups [came together to advance the idea of road funding](http://www.saferoadsyes.com/) and will extend their campaign until a solution is achieved. Carey Suhan, PE, President of the Michigan Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers also offered these thoughts on the rejected ballot measure: *“Michigan’s roads and bridges are among the worst in the nation because of underinvestment for the past five decades. As civil engineers, we witness the challenges of trying to run a 21st century transportation network using an outdated funding source. Unfortunately, Michigan voters chose to continue this trend in underinvestment, meaning our state will continue to have poor road conditions. It is now up to our elected leaders to offer another solution to improve Michigan’s roads, bridges and public transit.”* The current condition of Michigan’s roads and bridges was recently assessed by TRIP, a private nonprofit organization that researches, evaluates and distributes economic and technical data on surface transportation issue, found that Michigan’s underinvestment in recent years has resulted in further deterioration of its roads – there’s been a 23% increase in the percentage of major roads in poor condition. What’s scarier is this number is projected to increase to 53% by 2025 if the state and localities cannot keep up with regular maintenance and improvements. If Michiganders want smoother and safer roads in the years to come, adequate revenue must be collected and allocated to maintain and improve the state’s transportation infrastructure now. [With many other states taking action recently](http://blogs.asce.org/seven-states-say-yes-to-gas-tax-modifications/), Michigan will only fall further behind if lawmakers do not implement another plan quickly, Investing in better roads mean safer daily commutes and a brighter future for the state’s economy. 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be maintaining the status quo. [Last week, leaders in the U.S. House of Representatives began touting “flat funding” as an accomplishment](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/240303-gop-chairman-highway-funding-likely-to-remain-flat) that Congress must work to achieve. But it’s flat out not. Here are some of the things that will happen if Congress simply continues the status quo over the next few years, [from ASCE’s economic study on transportation](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/): - It will cost each American family’s budget $1,060 every year through at least 2020 - America will lose more than 876,000 jobs by 2020 - 234,000 jobs will force workers to take paycuts in 2020 - S. exports will drop by $28 billion in total by 2020 - America’s GDP will underperform by $897 billion in total by 2020 Short-changing transportation has a devastating ripple effect on our economy. With so much at stake, increasing our investment into transportation by fixing the Highway Trust Fund is the best choice for all Americans. The benefits of growing the surface transportation program go far beyond protecting those parts of the economy noted above. By increasing investment, we can start modernizing our transportation network so that it’s something Americans can again be proud of. Fewer potholes, less congestion, fewer deficient bridges, fewer off-loaded trains. Safer commutes, more time to spend with your family, better transit options. [![ASCE--Rough-Road-Infographic--highres](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ASCE-Rough-Road-Infographic-highres-1024x791.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ASCE-Rough-Road-Infographic-highres.jpg)A multiyear bill that continues the same amount of funding we’ve had since 2005 through SAFETEA-Lu is the opposite of aspiration. It will not help improve our low Report Card grades for surface transportation, and will do little to strengthen the economy. However, there is a way to not only fill the funding hole of the Highway Trust Fund but also grow the system. By increasing the federal gas tax, we can start investing in the projects America needs to have in place in order to continue to compete globally in the21st century. Every state has dozens of new construction projects that they would like to make a reality if they only had increased investment from all levels of government. Here’s our chance. To fill the current federal funding gap and grow the federal Highway Trust Fund to address current documented needs, Congress should raise the gas tax by at least 20 cents. This would be the first increase since 1993, and the bump would recoup what has been lost due to inflation and increase funding. For the average driver, it will cost about $187 more a year\*. In contrast, right now each motorist is paying $324 a year in additional repairs and operating costs. In addition, Americans spend an average 34 hours a year stuck in traffic, costing the U.S. economy $101 billion in wasted fuel and lost time annually. It’s a savings for your wallet by staying out of the auto mechanic shop. It’s an even bigger savings as it protects that $1,060 mentioned above. There is a lot at stake if we merely continue with the same level of funding of the past 10 years for the next five. It will hurt your personal finances, hurt our already aging transportation system and do little to benefit our economy. Let’s increase our investment so that Congress truly fixes the Trust Fund in a way that allows us to modernize our transportation system. [Join ASCE in telling your Senators and Representative](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=76273) that you expect their leadership in passing a long-term, sustainable fix to the Highway Trust Fund that includes an increased investment to modernize the transportation system. *\*calculated based on 18 gallon tank x 20 cents x 52 fill-ups a year (once a week)* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Ticks Louder](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-clock-ticks-louder/) **Published:** May 8, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=The%20Clock%20Ticks%20Louder&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F05%2F7040323901_5e1d3d08e9_z-300x201.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=The%20Clock%20Ticks%20Louder "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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If you’re thinking this is de ja vu from last summer, you’re not alone. > [\#TBT](https://twitter.com/hashtag/TBT?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) to a year ago when we heard a year would give “the space” to do a long-term bill. It’s time to [\#fixthetrustfund](https://twitter.com/hashtag/fixthetrustfund?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) [pic.twitter.com/x5dzY4IGFf](http://t.co/x5dzY4IGFf) > > — Senator Tom Carper (@SenatorCarper) [May 7, 2015](https://twitter.com/SenatorCarper/status/596350053507145728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) In [Missouri](http://semotimes.com/2015/05/semo-needs-new-roads-now/), the state gas tax has not been raised in 20 years, despite construction costs rising by 200 percent. Because Missouri has 1,600 bridges that are more than 75 years old, lack of funding is a growing issue. After an emergency bridge closure disrupted traffic flow this week, [Governor Jay Nixon](http://fox4kc.com/2015/05/07/mo-gov-jay-nixon-calls-for-more-highway-funding/) encouraged lawmakers to pass a bill that would increase the tax on motor fuels by 1.5 cents and the diesel tax by 3.5 cents. Without action, the governor said Missouri won’t have enough revenue to match federal dollars, which means the state will not see needed repairs, resulting in more traffic, and fewer jobs. In [Nebraska](http://www.omaha.com/news/legislature/hours-after-final-passage-ricketts-vetoes-gas-tax-increase/article_ce4d3acc-f4d4-11e4-baed-9779df608ed8.html), the unicameral legislature passed a 6-cent gas tax increase over four years, [Legislative Bill 610](http://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=25305), Gov. Ricketts promptly vetoed the bill, which now returns to the legislature for a likely override. In [Michigan](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/241311-michigan-voters-reject-gas-tax-hike), Proposition 1, which would have increased the state gas tax and raised $1.3 billion for road maintenance, was vehemently [rejected](http://blogs.asce.org/michigan-back-to-square-one-to-fix-roads/), leaving Michiganders left with poor road conditions and back at the drawing board to increase investments. On a positive note, in [Washington](http://www.seattletimes.com/opinion/editorials/legislature-needs-to-reach-consensus-on-transportation/) state, both the House and Senate have passed separate bills to increase state transportation funding. The House plan gives Sound Transit authorization to ask voters for up to $15 billion to extend its light-rail system, and House democrats want to continue using some sales-tax revenue collected from construction projects for the general fund. The Senate plan would authorize up to $11 billion, and would funnel that money back to transportation projects. Right now there is no certainty over which plan will prevail. Both plans include similar highway, bridge and pedestrian projects and raise about $15 billion over 16 years by gradually increasing the gas tax to 11.7 cents. Next week is Infrastructure Week, which could not come at a more opportune time as Congress has 22 days until the highway and transit policy expires. It is crucial these conversations lead to action that ensures a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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[Infrastructure Week](http://www.infrastructureweek.org) is finally upon us. To kick off the week, Vice President Joe Biden and Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx are discussing the economic impact of our country’s deteriorating infrastructure systems at “America on the Move: Investing in America’s Economy” the morning of Monday, May 11 at 9:15 ET. [Tune in to the webcast to hear the conversation.](http://about.bgov.com/events/america-on-the-move-investing-in-americas-economy/) In addition to Monday’s kickoff event, there’s a slew of things happening around the country. Here are a few sponsored by ASCE: - Congressional Briefing: Investing in America’s Flood Infrastructure, Monday, May 11 at 3:30 p.m. Rayburn House Office Building B-318, Washington DC - *2015 Report Card for Arizona’s Infrastructure* release, Wednesday, May 13 at 11:30, 2000 Rio Salado Parkway, Tempe, AZ 85281 - [Pittsburgh on the Move](http://www.iop.pitt.edu/Infrastructure2015/), Wednesday, May 13 at 3 p.m., Carnegie Mellon University, Porter Hall Room 100 - Alaska Municipal Light & Power’s Most Energy Efficient Plant: A Look Behind the Construction Fence at Alaska’s Resilient and Sustainable Energy Infrastructure Wednesday, May 13 at 10 a.m., Juneau, AK - Infrastructure Delivers More Than You Think: Tour Port NoLa, Thursday, May 14 at 9 a.m, 1350 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA You can also join in from anywhere by sharing the message of Infrastructure Week as part of the virtual [Rally to Rebuild America](https://media.gractions.com/5F2CC4A307745258C68DFB629216C4C9493B586D/c20ef1cb-7101-463b-ba5d-19b49978ad50.pdf) with your social networks using #RebuildRenew. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=We%E2%80%99re%20Telling%20You%20First%20%E2%80%94%20the%20Save%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20App%20Is%20Here%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Iowa Key Facts](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Iowa-Key-Facts1-154x300.png)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Iowa-Key-Facts1.png)While around these parts it’s infrastructure 24/7/365, national [Infrastructure Week](http://www.infrastructureweek.org) now in its third year is a great opportunity to highlight the importance of infrastructure to the economy and the great strides being made to prioritize investment and renewal into our roads, bridges, ports, water pipes and other infrastructure. As part of Infrastructure Week, today ASCE is releasing a new phone app. Help save America’s roads, water pipes, airports, and more by telling your elected officials to get to work on raising America’s infrastructure grades. Whether it’s an issue in your state or nationally, the new app will remind you when it’s critical for your elected leaders to hear from you. Enter your zip code to find out how many structurally deficient bridges there are in your county and how your state compares to the nation overall. The app for [iPhone ](https://appsto.re/us/J7ia7.i)and [Android ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.asce.reportcard&hl=en)includes infographics, videos, national and state data, and news. It then enables you to take all that information and do something about it in the Action Center. Through the app you can contact your elected leaders with just a few taps and let them know that you expect their leadership in making infrastructure renewal a priority. Our nation’s infrastructure most recently received a “D+” in the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* This app gives you the opportunity to share the stats of our aging infrastructure with your social networks and elected leaders, to help increase awareness of these often “out of sight, out of mind” issues. So download the new app right now for your [iPhone ](https://appsto.re/us/J7ia7.i)or [Android ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.asce.reportcard&hl=en)phone and join in (or continue) the effort to save America’s infrastructure as a way to celebrate Infrastructure Week from anywhere. 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Today the state has about 6.6 million people, but Arizona’s population by 2035 could be as high as 10.5 million people which is a lot more people who will be using the water infrastructure and traveling on the same roads. With such explosive growth, comes opportunities and challenges to keep up. The opportunities – new businesses arriving, increased productivity, and new jobs for workers – are there, but so are the challenges – congestion, having to expand existing infrastructure, and keeping up with maintenance for new and old assets. Arizona’s benefited from keeping ahead of it’s growth challenges in the past by adding new aviation facilities, growing the interstate network, and adding transit options that have outperformed their ridership estimates. Look at what has happened in just Maricopa county as the greater Phoenix area has grown: [![Freeway Opening Dates - This map shows the initial opening dates for segments of the regional freeway system. It also includes the planned opening dates for future freeways, including the South Mountain Loop 202 and the Loop 303 in the West Valley](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Slide1.jpg "5850091892_28a57b4229_b")](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Slide1.jpg)Investing in infrastructure has been well-timed and helped ease the growing pains of the state, especially in the Phoenix, but what about the future? To review the condition and needs of the state’s infrastructure both now and for the future, ASCE released the [*2015 Report Card for Arizona’s Infrastructure*](http://blogs.asce.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/AZ-Report-Card-5.13.15-FINALWEB2.pdf "AZ Report Card") on Wednesday as part of national Infrastructure Week. The Report Card assessed nine categories, giving the state an overall grade of “C.” While faring better than the nation’s infrastructure as a whole, the report reveals that the state’s infrastructure needs attention both for today and the future to keep up with growth. Here is a short video that explains the challenges facing Arizona’s infrastructure: // The state anticipates a significant population increase in the coming decades, so maintaining and modernizing infrastructure will be crucial to meet the needs of Arizona’s communities in the future. The Report Card offers five key solutions to raise the grades and prepare Arizona for the future: 1. 1. **We need infrastructure every day so we have to keep it working with good maintenance.** Maintenance is the every day work you just have to do to keep things moving, and Arizona’s infrastructure needs it. Sometimes it’s all about the basics, and maintenance is the basic first step to good infrastructure. 2. 2. **Investing in infrastructure has allowed Arizona to grow, and investing in smart projects will keep it growing.** Arizona has seen exciting new infrastructure projects over the last decade become selling points for the state and bring in new residents and businesses. New investments in critical corridors and freight connections can lead to new opportunities. Let’s keep this going! 3. 3. **Every community’s leaders should order an infrastructure health check-up.** Just like your body, infrastructure is a system. The water pipes and roads and railways are the arteries that keep the state moving so it’s worth asking – how is your area’s infrastructure doing? Just like a physical, infrastructure needs regular evaluations. 4. 4. **Borrowing from infrastructure funds just means you’ll pay more tomorrow.** Arizona’s leaders have to make tough budget choices, but not using infrastructure dollars for needed projects today will lead to more expensive project costs down the road and infrastructure that hinders growth rather than supports it. 5. 5. **Planning for Arizona’s future starts today with sustainable choices, innovative investments, and resilience.** Arizona’s projected growth is both an opportunity and a challenge. It will require continued focus by the state’s leaders to adopt sustainable practices and innovate to be competitive. [See the Report Card Infographic – Every Citizen Uses Infrastructure](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ASCE-AZ-Report-Card-Infographic-Every-Citizen.pdf) [Read the Report Card brochure](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ASCE-AZBrochure_FINAL.pdf "AZ Report Card Brochure") [Download the full Report Card](http://blogs.asce.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/AZ-Report-Card-5.13.15-FINALWEB2.pdf "AZ Report Card") [See the Report Card Grades Summary Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/ASCE-AZ-Report-Card-Infographic-Grades-.pdf "Infographic") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure **Tags:** Arizona, growth, infrastructure, invest, roads, smart, water --- ### [Infrastructure Needs Crescendo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-needs-crescendo/) **Published:** May 15, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Needs%20Crescendo&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Needs%20Crescendo "Share on 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"Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Infrastructure%20Needs%20Crescendo "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Infrastructure%20Needs%20Crescendo "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by 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After an [Amtrak train derailed ](http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/13/us/philadelphia-amtrak-train-derailment/)on along the Northeast Corridor Tuesday night killing eight and injuring over 200 people, our nation’s rail infrastructure was thrust into the spotlight. Despite the exact causes for the derailment, which are still unknown, the incident prompted a national conversation about the need to increase investment into our infrastructure. Outlets including [International Business Times](http://www.ibtimes.com "International Business Times") ,[CNBC ](http://video.cnbc.com/gallery/?video=3000379231&play=1)and [Slate ](http://www.slate.com/blogs/the_slatest/2015/05/13/philadelphia_trainwreck_northeast_regional_crash_shines_light_on_amtrak.html)discussed the derailment in the context of our aging infrastructure needs, quoting ASCE’s [Infrastructure Report Card ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/rail/overview)recommendation to “improve passenger rail in dense urban corridor markets and as an alternative to air and automobile travel for intercity markets.” Even if poor rail conditions didn’t cause the derailment, ASCE agrees that a better-funded and maintained system could have prevented it. According to the [Philadelphia Business Journal](http://www.bizjournals.com/philadelphia/news/2015/05/14/northeast-corridor-starving-for-investment-after.html), Amtrak is expected to “quadruple its total ridership by 2040,” yet the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee cut [Amtrak funding](http://www.politico.com/story/2015/05/amtrak-budget-house-panel-crash-117904.html) by $252 million this week. While derailments like Tuesday’s have numerous causation factors, infrastructure increased investment is necessary to modernize the system regardless. In addition to Amtrak, 11 to 13 cars from a [freight train](http://www.post-gazette.com/local/city/2015/05/14/Freight-train-derails-in-Hazelwood-pittsburgh/stories/201505140271) derailed on Thursday in Pittsburgh, Pa., causing traffic backups. Though this incident did not cause any injuries, the damage expenses reflect the need for better investment upfront. The [Washington Post](http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-high-cost-of-delaying-infrastructure-repairs/2015/05/14/dd033556-f1a7-11e4-90bc-afe06f530791_story.html) explores the cost of delaying infrastructure repairs and contrasts it with the opportunity investing in infrastructure creates. point to the need for a long-term, sustainable funding solution as Improving the current planning and funding process would not only necessary for maintenance but a way to enhance our nation’s competitiveness, sustainable footprint and create up to an estimated 2 million jobs, the author argues. The [Arizona Report Card](http://blogs.asce.org/arizonas-growth-makes-infrastructure-a-smart-investment/) advocates for keeping infrastructure in a state of good repair because of how important it is to our daily lives. Further, the report underscores the need to invest in smart projects that will support Arizona’s expected population growth and make the state even more economically competitive. Due to infrastructure needs becoming more visibly apparent, states like Arizona have released a state infrastructure report card to carefully evaluate their nation’ infrastructure needs. For Arizona, the infrastructure report card helps them determine which infrastructure sectors need the most investment. From DC’s Metro delays on Monday morning, to state DOTs warning what is at stake if Congress does not fix the Highway Trust Fund , this week shows it’s time for Congress to come together in a bipartisan fashion and Given the Highway Trust Fund’s impending insolvency, it is more critical than ever that Congress work together to pass legislation to that provides a sustainable, long-term funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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solution](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/punt-277x300.jpg)](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/punt.jpg)Congress decides to punt on finding a long term transportation funding solution To use a common football analogy, this week Congress [decided](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/asce-supports-highway-and-transit-extension.pdf) to “punt” on finding a long-term highway and transit funding solution and reauthorizing federal surface transportation programs. In football, the purpose of punting is for a team to be in a better strategic position following a failed offensive effort. Congress might need to be reminded of this because their action this week did nothing to get them closer to identifying a long-term solution to increase transportation investment. Their failure to deliver on this important objective harms the nation and will lead to more potholes, overcrowded transit cars, and more deficient bridges. The U.S. House of Representatives has already [approved ](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll249.xml "House Extension Vote Tally")a measure to extend the current highway and transit program until July 31, 2015, and the U.S. Senate will soon follow suit. This sets-up a similar dynamic as we saw last summer, where the federal Highway Trust Fund will approach bankruptcy at the same time that programs to build roads, repair bridges and improve transit systems will expire. This means that at the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) contingency planning will begin on how to soon slow down payments to states for project work completed and, if Congress fails to do anything by the end of July, plans will be in place for the possibility of an August highway and transit department shutdown. More importantly, the extension means that states and localities will pull back even further in their planning and delivery of projects amidst this summer uncertainty. This represents the state of affairs when Congress shirks its responsibility to provide states budget certainty and adequate funding to meet the mobility needs of their residents and local businesses. Over the next 11 weeks, ASCE will be urging Congress to find a real and lasting solution that will allow America to modernize our roads, bridges, and transit systems. We can’t do this alone; we need your help and voice in this policy debate to ensure that members of Congress feel the pressure on the need to act. Please take a moment and [write ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=76273 "ASCE Action Alert")you members of Congress and tell them that they need to fix the Highway Trust Fund and act to improve the nation’s transportation system. It’s fourth and inches and time for Congress to run a play that gets this issue across the goal line. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Punts%20on%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Improvements&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [Trust Fund Patches Won't Patch Potholes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trust-fund-patches-wont-patch-potholes/) **Published:** May 22, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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received yet another short-term extension this week. Congress has “[punted](http://blogs.asce.org/congress-punts-on-highway-transit-improvements/)” once again on passing a long-term highway and transit funding solution until July 31, 2015. This [short-term patch](http://cdn.govexec.com/interstitial.html?v=2.1.1&rf=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.govexec.com%2Foversight%2F2015%2F05%2Fcongress-cant-solve-infrastructure-crisis%2F113278%2F) is just the latest of temporary solution over the past six years. [The Atlantic ](http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2015/05/highway-trust-fund-congress-infrastrcture/393653/)discussed Congress’ short-term patch response to extending the Highway Trust Fund another two months as a bipartisan issue. Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) told the [Huffington Post](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/05/19/inhofe-highway-trust-fund_n_7316414.html) that his own party was to blame for the absence of long-term solution and that a “true conservative” would support federal spending for roads and bridges. With funds dwindling, states are worried about the lack of federal funding for summer construction projects, announcing that construction projects like the [Ashford Avenue Bridge Project](http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2015/05/19/ashford-avenue-bridge-highway-trust-fund/) and $36 million worth of projects in [Montana ](http://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-fuelish-indecision-congress-slows-state-road-work/article_b42cfece-6a1a-5f34-9402-88858dfcb3f0.html)could suffer if the Federal Highway Trust Fund expires. [Wisconsin Public Radio](http://www.wpr.org/engineering-group-amtrak-crash-highlights-precarious-infrastructure-situation) used the recent Amtrak derailment to underscore the importance of addressing our nation’s infrastructure needs. ASCE’s Senior Managing Director Casey Dinges, who spoke on the program, stressed the importance of learning from past infrastructure calamities, noting that, “those events do capture the public’s attention, and regardless of the causes of some of these incidences, it does create an opportunity for people to talk about infrastructure needs.” With Memorial Day approaching May 25, our highway, bridge and aviation infrastructure will be put to the test. [AAA Mid-Atlantic](http://www.capitalgazette.com/opinion/our_say/ph-ac-ce-our-say-20150521,0,246063.story) expects more than 800,000 area residents to be traveling at least 50 miles between Thursday and Monday, which is the most for any Memorial Day weekend in a decade. The increased number of vehicles on the nation’s deteriorating highways will undoubtedly also have safety implications. According to [ASCE’s Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/roads/), roadway conditions are a significant factor in approximately one-third of all U.S. traffic fatalities and cost the U.S. economy $230 billion each year. In addition to roads, air transportation is also in need of tremendous investment and modernization. The House of Representatives released a [report ](http://mica.house.gov/uploads/Airports%20in%20Crisis%20W-Mica%20Edits%202%20FINAL.pdf)of U.S. airports, showing how they have failed to keep up with passenger capacity needs. The report highlights the significant challenges airports face during peak travel periods and delays due to inclement weather. Despite these unresolved [issues](http://finance.yahoo.com/news/aviation-agency-unveils-messaging-system-195348126.html), passenger fees continue to rise.[ Upgrade My Airport](http://upgrademyairport.com/) has released a petition to persuade Congress to upgrade our airports. Because infrastructure affects each one of us every day it is critical that Congress feels the pressure to come up with a long-term, sustainable funding solution and pass a multiyear bill by the end of July. If you want to get involved, please [write ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=76273)to members of Congress why they need to fix the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Trust%20Fund%20Patches%20Won%E2%80%99t%20Patch%20Potholes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2013 Report Card, aviation, highway trust fund, roads --- ### [Win One (Gas Tax) for the Gipper](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/win-one-gas-tax-for-the-gipper/) **Published:** May 27, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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1983](/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/Reagan-Signs-the-Surface-Transportation-Assistance-Act-300x176.jpg)](https://www.enotrans.org/wp-content/uploads/wpsc/downloadables/Reagan-Devolution-The-Real-Story-of-the-1982-Gas-Tax-Increase.pdf "Eno Center for Transportation report")President Reagan Signs the Surface Transportation Assistance Act January 6 1983Summer reading lists of those in Washington, D.C. policy circles tend not to reflect titles that rank highly on the *New York Times* bestseller list. Case and point is a new work by Eno Center for Transportation senior fellow Jeff Davis, titled “[Reagan Devolution: The Real Story of the 1982 Gas Tax Increase](https://www.enotrans.org/wp-content/uploads/wpsc/downloadables/Reagan-Devolution-The-Real-Story-of-the-1982-Gas-Tax-Increase.pdf "Eno Center report").” In the piece, Davis provides an excerpt from Reagan’s Saturday, Nov. 27, 1982 radio address where the president stated, “What we’re proposing is to add the equivalent of five cents per gallon to the existing federal highway user fee, the gas tax. That hasn’t been increased for the last 23 years. The cost to the average motorist will be small, but the benefit to our transportation system will be immense.” Reagan signed the gas tax bill on January 6, 1983. Much of that lore is known and has been repeated in recent years by ASCE and others as a symbol of leadership that existed during a time of heightened bipartisan understanding. However, Davis paints a more nuanced view, supported by primary documentation from President Reagan’s Simi Valley library and conversations with former Reagan staffers. The truth is that when it came to transportation, Reagan was both a pragmatic bipartisan deal cutter and limited government ideologue at the same time and certain policies, such as the enactment of the 1982 gas tax hike, bring this to light. The rubber met the road so to speak when following his 1982 State of the Union address where Reagan announced grand plans to block-grant a large portion of the federal budget including transportation programs to the states, Davis outlines that, “Negotiations with state governors and city and county officials over the specifics went poorly,” and Reagan was forced to abandon those efforts. Echos of the debate between raising the gas tax and devolving the federal program to the states ring as current today as they did in 1982. While the faces have changed and the party positions might be a bit altered, the national challenge that faced President Reagan and Congressional Democrats remains the same: How can the nation improve its transportation system and raise revenue for this cause in a way that can generate bipartisan support from federal, state and local lawmakers.? With the looming deadline of July 31 hanging over the fate of the current federal transportation program, let’s hope that today’s decision makers dive into this summer read and get to work on a solution quickly to [\#FixtheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Win%20One%20%28Gas%20Tax%29%20for%20the%20Gipper&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, Reagan, transportation --- ### [Dam Safety Deserves Awareness](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dam-safety-deserves-awareness/) **Published:** May 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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storms in [Texas ](http://www.nbcnews.com/news/weather/texas-floods-dozens-rescued-state-struggles-record-rain-n366436)and [Oklahoma ](http://photos.denverpost.com/2015/05/25/photos-record-rainfall-flooding-cause-havoc-in-texas-oklahoma/#1)are testing the strength of many dams this week. Our thoughts are with those affected, and it is hoped that there are no dam failures contributing to the challenges these communities face. Such failures have had dire effects; it was this same week back in 1889 when the worst dam failure in U.S. history occurred – known as the Johnstown (Penn.) Flood – when the South Fork Dam failed killing more than 2,200 people. On Sunday – May 31st –we commemorate this day as National Dam Safety Awareness Day to remind ourselves of the lessons learned after that failure. As we approach [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](http://www.fema.gov/about-national-dam-safety-program), it’s important to take a minute to underscore the state of dam infrastructure across the nation, [given a “D” grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dams/) in the Infrastructure Report Card. Dams are an extremely important part of this nation’s infrastructure—equal in importance to bridges, roads, airports, and other major components of the infrastructure. [They can serve several functions at once](http://www.livingneardams.org/), including water supply for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and community use; flood control; recreation; and clean, renewable energy through hydropower. However, dams also pose a tremendous potential hazard to downstream residents and infrastructure, so dam owners and regulators must observe proper safety methods to maintain these important functions and minimize downstream risk. Could the South Fork Dam failure happen today? Advances in dam safety engineering practices and regulation coupled with emergency action planning make living near a dam safer. Historically, dams that failed had some deficiency, which caused the failure. These dams are typically termed deficient. Currently, there are about 4,400 deficient dams in the U.S. There are dams with this classification in nearly every state. (A majority of states and federal agencies define a deficient dam as one that has been found to have hydraulic or structural deficiencies that leave it more susceptible to failure.) Lagging behind is the number of deficient dams that have been repaired. The Association of State Dam Safety Officials ([ASDSO](http://www.damsafety.org/)) has determined that it could cost up to $18 billion to rehabilitate the back-log of non-federal (those subject to state regulation) high-hazard potential dams that need repair. High–hazard potential dams, should they fail, would most likely cause loss of life and significant economic losses. To help address these investment needs, the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy_Programs/Content_Pieces/WRDA-Brief.pdf) reauthorized the National Dam Safety Program. While ASCE and ASDSO have made advances to promote dam safety programs, increase awareness, provide training, and fund rehabilitation initiatives, there are still significant financial shortfalls. [Tell congressional appropriators to fully fund the WRRDA authorized programs](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=82149). It should not take another Johnstown or a dam failure in Texas and Oklahoma to raise awareness to fund these essential safety programs. *This post is co-authored by Lori Spragens, executive director of [ASDSO](http://www.damsafety.org/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Dam%20Safety%20Deserves%20Awareness&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FDams-Featured.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Dam%20Safety%20Deserves%20Awareness "Share on 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deterioration of our country’s once world-class infrastructure. It’s been our position for a while that the primary threat to America’s infrastructure is [a shortfall in investment.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/grade-sheet/americas-infrastructure-investment-needs) However last week ASCE published a new paper highlighting an emerging critical stressor engineers aren’t yet prepared to address: the impacts of extreme weather caused by climate change. [*Adapting Infrastructure and Civil Engineering Practice to a Changing Climate*](http://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784479193?utm_campaign=GR-20150529-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua)**,** a new report, authored by [ASCE’s Committee on Adapting to a Changing Climate](http://www.asce.org/climate-change/committee-on-adaptation-to-a-changing-climate/) (CACC), is rich with information documenting the challenges of climate change to the engineers who design and maintain our nation’s infrastructure. The committee comprises more than a dozen leading engineers from across multiple sectors that spent two years compiling science data and formulating recommendations for civil engineers to recognize and—adapt infrastructure to—the threats of climate change. The committee identifies two major challenges of climate change to the engineering practice: - The absence of regional and local climate models. A vast majority of current climate science is performed at the global scale. Engineers require more localized models to effectively design infrastructure. The authors suggest increased research and science across disciplines to better understand likely regional climate scenarios and develop scalable localized models. - Current engineering practice utilizes historic data to design infrastructure (known as stationarity). Instead, the authors suggest incorporating future climate trends into infrastructure design and adopt low-regret, adaptive approaches. Engineering practices are designed—by function—to be methodical and that often that means slow to adapt. Implementing the paradigm shift suggested by the authors will require cooperation across multiple sectors and may include changes in coursework for engineering students, new safeguards in professional licensing and insurance, policies that encourage or require climate adaptation design, and new innovative project financing structures. Finally, better climate models, leadership at all levels of government and sufficient funding will be critical to the success of saving America’s Infrastructure. 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setting new bounds on the reach of federal water jurisdiction. The “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS) rule is more than 20 years in the making. Uncertainty stemming from three Supreme Court decisions left the two primary agencies responsible for implementing the rule—the Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corp of Engineers—with no choice but to write new guidance on when the federal government could require a permit for projects that impact water they may eventually reach traditional jurisdictional waters. After years of reviewing and developing science to support the underlying rule the two agencies released a draft for public comment in April of 2014. Following significant backlash against the rule, the agencies twice extended the public comment period, eventually receiving more than one million public comments. ASCE held a special webinar on the proposed rule with top administration officials; one of nearly 300 stakeholder meetings the agencies undertook. [ASCE submitted public comments urging key changes to the rule](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Home_Page/Content_Pieces/Federal_State_Issues_List/asce-comments-wotus.pdf) with input from technical committees. After nine months of reviewing comments and rewriting the rule, EPA and the Corps published a final rule last week. ### How the New Rule Stacks Up EPA and the Corps received a lot of feedback (and criticism) on the draft rule. ASCE was among the commenters, striving to provide constructive feedback that would lead to a clearer rule for engineers working on water resources projects. The final rule addresses eight of the nine areas ASCE made recommendations, making significant and substantive changes urged by ASCE and other stakeholder groups. Here are a few of the changes: - The draft rule regulates all tributaries “without qualification,” in the agencies own words. ASCE urged a more refined definition of tributary that provides clarity on descriptive characteristics of upstream tributary features. The new rule underscores that jurisdictional water must demonstrate “volume, frequency, and duration of flow sufficient to create” a bed, bank and ordinary high water mark. References to flow were previously not included in the draft rule. - Under the draft rule “adjacent” waters were defined as those “bordering, contiguous or neighboring” traditional navigable waters. ASCE and other stakeholders expressed concern with the potentially broad definition of neighboring. The new rule sets bright-line rules on when an adjacent body of water is considered neighboring. The final rule provides that neighboring waters are those that are: - Within 100 feet of the ordinary high water mark - Located in the 100-year floodplain and not more than 1,500 feet from the ordinary high water mark - Located within 1,500 feet of the high tide line - Riparian Areas and Floodplains. The final rule spends multiple page recognizing concerns comments expressed over the terminology associated with riparian areas and floodplains. To clarify the final rule accepts the recommendation of ASCE to adopt the standard FEMA 100 year flood plain map widely used and recognized in the civil engineering practice. - ASCE expressed concern with the term “uplands” used in the draft rule when referring to construction of ditches. The final rule eliminates the term “uplands.” - Stormwater control features. Many ASCE members expressed concern that the new rule would bring under jurisdiction stormwater control features, such as municipal separate storm systems or green infrastructure features. The rule addresses at length the concern ASCE raised with regard to stormwater control features such retention ponds, gutters and rain gardens. The final rule specifically excludes “stormwater control features constructed to convey, treat or store stormwater that are created in dry land.” ASCE will continue to urge that EPA and the Corps continue to encourage the use green infrastructure. ASCE supports many of the brightline tests, exclusions and clarifications adopted in the final rule at the urging of the stakeholder community. Looking forward we will monitor and review forthcoming implementation guidelines stemming from the rule. Finally, ASCE plans to provide member education opportunities in the coming week focused on the practical implication of the rule for project managers on the ground. 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transportation infrastructure is back on. At this point, lawmakers are in agreement that our infrastructure needs serious attention, yet Congress is in gridlock on finding a long-term solution. Underinvestment in infrastructure does not only lead to a growing backlog of maintenance, but also a drag on the economy. If Congress does not increase investment in the next long-term surface transportation bill, our aging roads, bridges and transit will become an even greater drag on our [economy](https://www.enotrans.org/eno-brief/the-perils-of-flat-funding). A recent article in the [Wall Street Journal ](http://blogs.wsj.com/experts/2015/06/04/how-a-decaying-infrastructure-hurts-u-s-manufacturing/)explains how poor transportation infrastructure harms businesses, who rely on roads and highways to transport goods in a timely, cost-effective way. This article discusses how road congestion affects businesses by hindering the movement of supplies and lengthening workers’ daily commutes. An effective supply chain relies upon a reliable transportation network, which in turn bolsters the economy. Legislation to raise the federal gas tax, like the bipartisan [Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/1846), would index the gas tax to future inflation and provide Congress strong incentive to bring our transportation costs and revenue under control by creating an automatic revenue increase if Congress fails to act in a year. In a recent [CNBC op-ed](http://www.cnbc.com/id/102727268), Reid Ribble explained that the only way to address our $16 billion annual shortfall is to either cut costs or raise revenues, making a federal gas tax increase the most attractive option. [Business Insider](http://www.businessinsider.com/this-new-transportation-bill-could-finally-solve-americas-infrastructure-problem-2015-6) emphasized that the Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act is supported by a diverse group of organizations that rely on infrastructure to do business, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, The American Trucking Association and The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). On another note, states are flexing their creative muscles to come up with ways to fund their infrastructure needs. In [Oregon](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/243610-oregon-to-tax-drivers-by-the-mile-for-roads), ODOT has created a new program called [OReGO](http://www.myorego.org/), which will be the first tested vehicle miles traveled program in the nation. Volunteers will be charged 1.5 cents per mile and will be offered a tax credit reimbursing them for the 31-cent-per-gallon Oregon gas tax. Though Oregonians are excited about this new program, they remain resolved that the federal government find a long-term, sustainable funding solution. With time once again running out, it is critical that Congress feels the pressure to come up with a long-term, sustainable funding solution and passes a multi-year bill by the end of July. If you want to get involved, please write your members of Congress and let them know why America needs a fix to the [Highway Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Final%20Inning%20for%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20Fix&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [WRRDA One Year Later](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrrda-one-year-later/) **Published:** June 18, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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It was the first major water resources bill Congress passed in nearly seven years. Historically, major water resources bills were signed on a two year cycle, but partisanship and a ban on congressional earmarks made the legislation increasingly difficult to pass. Below are some of the major provisions of the law and how far along they have come in the last year. **Levee and Dam Safety Programs** WRRDA reauthorized the National Dam Safety Program and establishes a Levee Safety Initiative. The Dam Safety Program was last authorized in 2006 and the levee program expands an existing program beyond federally owned levees. WRRDA authorizes $13.9 million annually for the dam program which provides grants to states for activities such as inspections, training programs and public safety awareness campaigns. The levee program is authorized at $79 million annually and charges FEMA and the Army Corps to inventory the estimated 10,000 miles of levees across the country and develop consistent guidelines for designing, building, operating and maintaining the vital flood control structures. For both programs, we recommend full congressional appropriation. While new appropriations are negotiated, the Corps and FEMA should rely on WRRDA authorization and existing funds to set these up. **Water Infrastructure Finance Innovative Authority** WRRDA establishes a new lending program called the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Army Corps of Engineers for major water resources projects. The program works cooperatively with the Department of Treasury and is modeled off the popular transportation lending program TIFIA. EPA has so far embraced the program and has held a series of [informational webinars](http://water.epa.gov/grants_funding/cwsrf/upload/WIFIA-04-01-15-Webcast.pdf) on its progress and is reportedly hiring staff to oversee the program. The 2015 omnibus appropriations bill gave EPA $2.2 million in administrative costs to get the program up and running and the recently released [FY16 draft House EPA appropriations bill](http://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hrpt-114-hr-fy2016-interior.pdf) provides $4.2 million over two years. The Army Corps has yet to provide any public information on their efforts to start the program and recent Corps appropriations bills make no mention of the program. One thing we’re keeping an eye out on are efforts to remove the prohibition on using tax-exempt bonds to fund the 51% of project cost not eligible for funding through WIFIA. **Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and Inland Waterway Trust Fund** Arguably two programs to make the most headway following the passage of WRRDA are the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) and Inland Water Way Trust Fund (IWTF). WRRDA provided important fixes to these two programs desperately needed to meet demands placed on our on waterway transportation systems. First, WRRDA set new target appropriations for the HMFT, which both the [House](http://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/hrpt-114-hr-fy2016-energywater.pdf) and [Senate](http://www.appropriations.senate.gov/sites/default/files/hearings/FY2106%20Energy%20and%20Water%20Development%20Bill%20BILLS-114hr2028rs.pdf) hit in their FY16 funding bills. Previously Congress only appropriated a fraction of the funds collected back into related O&M activities. On the inland side, the biggest progress made since WRRDA was actually a result of a [late 2014 December bill](https://www.congress.gov/113/bills/hr5771/BILLS-113hr5771pcs.pdf) that extended numerous tax benefits set to expire at the end of the year. Stuffed in that bill was a 9-cent increase to the barge diesel fuel user fee which funds the IWTF. The increase was widely supported by the inland waterway community. **Clean Water State Revolving Fund** WRRDA made several changes to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). The new CWSRF provisions provide loan flexibility, lower interest rates and extended repayment periods of 30 years. CWSRF funds may also now be used to implement watershed plans, water conservation, stormwater recapture, and for technical assistance to small and medium treatment works. Reports from the field show the expansion of eligible activities are being utilized. ASCE and other stakeholders also advocated for Qualifications Based Selection (QBS) requirements in the update, which were ultimately adopted in [EPA’s implementation guidance](http://lw.acec.org/userfiles/file/WRRDA%20--%20SRF%20guidance%20from%20EPA.pdf) to its regional offices. **Army Corps of Engineers Project Prioritization** Identifying water resources projects ripe for federal investment in the era of earmark bans has proved to be a headache for Congress and the Army Corps of Engineers. To comply with the self-imposed ban, WRRDA Sec. 7001 requires the Corps produce an annual project list for Congress which outlines potential new authorizations. Because the list originates with the Administration rather than with Congress, the process complies with the earmark ban. The Corps released its [first report in February](http://www.usace.army.mil/Portals/2/docs/civilworks/Project%20Planning/wrda/2014/proposals/sec_7001_final.pdf), which was front and center at a [House Transportation and Infrastructure committee hearing last week](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=398876). According to testimony by Rep. Gibbs, Congress envisioned a process where nonfederal sponsors would recommend projects to the Corps, which would be included in the list so long as the federal government had some jurisdiction over the project. The issue is only 19 of the 114 projects identified by nonfederal sponsors were included in the report—the rest were relegated to an appendix and according to some congressional lawyers are therefore not eligible for funding. It’s likely Congress will provide cleared instructions on 7001 in the next WRRDA; in the meantime all eyes are on the Army Corps and White House Office of Management and Budget, which also has oversight over the list. **Conclusion** As described above, a lot has been done in the last year since WRRDA was signed. While this may help tick up the ASCE *Report Card for Americas Infrastructure* Cumulative Grade of D+, much work lay ahead. There is still a $60 billion backlog of projects at the Army Corps and skepticism remains that WRRDA’s public private partnership can help reduce that backlog. President Obama’s [proposal for new public infrastructure financing ](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2015/01/16/fact-sheet-increasing-investment-us-roads-ports-and-drinking-water-syste)still needs support in Congress. We hope Congress will [stick to its goal](http://www.politico.com/story/2013/10/wrda-water-bill-98763.html) of passing a WRRDA every two years. In the meantime, they should appropriate funds for the programs that were authorized in the last WRRDA 2014. 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email")](mailto:?subject=WRRDA%20One%20Year%20Later&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, levees, wrrda --- ### [The Taxman Cometh](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-taxman-cometh/) **Published:** June 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2015.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/CBO-HTF-impact-2015.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/CBO-HTF-impact-2015.jpg)Congressional Budget Office CBO projected balance of the federal Highway Trust Fund HTF as of March 2015 which indicates HTF insolvency by September 2015This week the focus of Congressional tax committees was on how to properly fund our nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. The federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is supported by current federal gasoline tax receipts, which have failed over time to keep up with current federal transportation spending. Therefore, the HTF is facing an $8 billion shortfall for the remainder of this calendar year, and is expected to face a $90 billion shortfall over the next six years. A main reason for this discrepancy is that the federal gas tax rate has not been increased since 1993, not even to account for inflation or construction cost pressures. The HTF is slated to be insolvent later this summer (see CBO chart above) and if the tone and tenor of the House and Senate hearings were any indication, Congress has a lot of work to do in short order to avoid this looming crisis. There was no consensus outlined in either hearing on a solution and member views ranged from supporting a 15-cent per gallon gas tax increase, to taxing foreign corporate earnings, to eliminating all current transit spending from the trust fund. In the [House hearing](http://waysandmeans.house.gov/event/39839645/), Ways & Means Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) noted that, “We \[Congress\] like doing six-year highway bills; that’s our goal … we need to find a real, long-term solution \[to the HTF crisis\].” Congressman Renacci (R-OH) made mention of his [bill ](http://renacci.house.gov/index.cfm/2015/4/bipartisan-group-of-lawmakers-introduce-long-term-solution-to-address-highway-trust-fund "BRIDGE Act")that would index the current gasoline tax to inflation, among other actions, which ASCE supports. Renacci said, “Short-term fixes are not the answer. We need to have a user fee program and we need to do something long-term.” Committee Democrats were vocal in their support for a fix, with Ranking Member Sander Levin (D-MI) stating, “All options should be on the table, except doing nothing.” In the [Senate](http://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=eb4ae915-5056-a032-527c-b909d3290bfd), Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-UT) and Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) agreed on the urgent need for a funding fix. “As chairman of this committee I will solve this problem,” said Senator Hatch. Senator Wyden went on to say, “You cannot have big league economic growth with little league infrastructure.” ASCE provided a [written statement for the record](http://blogs.asce.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Senate-Finance-ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record-061815.pdf) to Senate Finance where we outlined our preference for an immediate increase in the federal motor fuels tax while remaining open to all options Congress would like to consider to increase revenues to the HTF. There was broad consensus during both hearings that user fees should support the future program and that the principle that “those who use the roads should pay for their upkeep” should be maintained. The American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) this week unveiled a new [study ](http://www.artba.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/How-a-Gas-Tax-Increase-Affects-the-Retail-Pump-Price-June-2015-ARTBA-Study-FINAL-2.pdf "ARTBA gas prices, gas tax study")that concluded that a 15-cent per gallon gas tax increase would be a relatively insignificant pricing factor in the retail cost of gasoline. Tax committees are slated to take another look at funding and financing options next week, as the July 31 deadline for action looms larger. tell your social networks about why Congress must #FixTheTrustFund and [write ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833 "Write Congress")your members of Congress and urge them to act now to solve this problem. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Keeping%20the%20U.S.%20from%20Driving%20into%20Potholes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) was set up in 1956 to fund the build and maintain a transportation network nationwide. Today, it is the national bank account for roads, bridges and transit that reimburses states for eligible projects. Inaction by Congress has put the Highway Trust Fund in jeopardy, and with a month left before the temporary funding fix runs out on July 31st, Congress is nowhere near to closing a deal to generate sustainable revenue for the nation’s highway, bridge, and transit systems – investments vital to the health of our recovering economy. #FixTheTrustFund is a call to action to solve this transportation problem today.* This week Congress is slated to step up hearings on transportation. Here’s what we’ll be watching in national campaign to #FixTheTrustFund this week: **June 23, 10 a.m**.: Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee markup of a fiscal 2016 transportation spending measure. ([Listen live](http://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings-and-testimony/subcommittee-markup-fy16-transportation-housing-urban-development "Listen live")) **June 24, 9:30 a.m**.: Senate Environment and Public Works Committee to mark up the Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy, or DRIVE, Act. ([Info](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Hearing&Hearing_ID=104dee76-e2e3-9b33-fd8c-4cb1a7ecaf7d)) *What to watch for*: With the current strong bipartisan consensus, we expect the mark-up to go smoothly. That action will put pressure on the other authorizing committees and the Senate Finance Committee to secure their pieces of the bill before the July 31 legislative deadline. The Senate the Finance Committee will hold a [hearing ](http://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=571670eb-5056-a032-52b2-d8407a6f4374)on private sector investment and public-private partnerships with the former Indiana governor Mitch Daniels and current Colorado DOT chief [Shailen Bhatt](https://www.codot.gov/about/executive-director). Ranking Member Ron Wyden (D-OR) is expected to highlight his [new bipartisan bill ](http://www.finance.senate.gov/newsroom/ranking/release/?id=27efdfd3-33b3-4524-9cde-0ef0bc875a95)that would expand tax-exempt private activity bonds and create a new federal infrastructure tax credit. June 24, 2 p.m.: House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures hearing on the “taxation of the repatriation of foreign earnings as a funding mechanism for a multiyear highway bill.” ([Info](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Hearings.Hearing&Hearing_ID=104dee76-e2e3-9b33-fd8c-4cb1a7ecaf7d)) *What to watch*: Across the Capitol in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Select Revenue Measures will hold a [hearing ](http://waysandmeans.house.gov/event/chairman-reichert-announces-hearing-on-repatriation-of-foreign-earnings-as-a-source-of-funding-for-the-highway-trust-fund/)on the prospect of taxing U.S. corporate foreign earnings – otherwise known as repatriation – for deposit in the HTF, which the Obama Administration supports. This funding fix does not have unanimous support on either the Republican or Democratic side of the aisle, so expect some [internal party disagreement](http://www.wsj.com/articles/firms-back-tax-reformjust-not-obamas-1422924735)s on this as a solution along with some opposition from large, multinational corporations who will be on the hook to pay the tax. **June 24, 2 p.m**.: House Transportation and Infrastructure Highways and Transit Subcommittee hearing on “Meeting the Transportation Needs of Rural America.” ([Watch live](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=399165)) **June 25, 10 a.m.**: Senate Finance Committee hearing on exploring ways that private financing could back infrastructure projects. ([Info](http://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=571670eb-5056-a032-52b2-d8407a6f4374)) **Help Us #FixTheTrustFund** 1\. Tell Congress that it’s time to [fix the Highway Trust Fund](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) and increase our investment into transportation before the July deadline. 2\. If you’re in MD, OR, CO, TX or WI, attend a Town Hall Meeting this week and ask your Member of Congress about their ideas on how to fix the Highway Trust Fund. | 6/24/2015 | Rep. Harris (R-MD-1) | This meeting is conducted by telephone.For more information on this meeting, follow this link: vekeo.com/event/congressman-andy-harris-06242015/?awesm=vekeo.buzz\_t1u/ | **Starts at 6:45 pm** | |---|---|---|---| | 6/27/2015 | Sen. Wyden (D-OR) | Hood River Valley Adult Center2010 Sterling Dr.Hood River, OR 97031 | **Starts at 1:00 pm** | | 6/27/2015 | Rep. Perlmutter (D-CO-7) | Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage4900 Kipling St.Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 | **Starts at 10:00 am** | | 6/27/2015 | Rep. Sessions (R-TX-32) | Richland CollegeGarland Campus675 West Walnut StreetGarland, TX 75040-5023This meeting requires an RSVP. Register online.For more information on this meeting, follow this link: sessions.house.gov/index.cfm/june-town-hall | **Starts at 11:00 am** | | 06/28/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th ) | Brookfield Public Safety Building 2100 North Calhoun Road Brookfield, WI 53005For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) | **Starts at 7:00 pm** | 3\. Stay tuned to our [Facebook ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fixthetrustfund-this-week-keeping-the-us-from-driving-into-potholes/www.facebook.com/SaveUSAInfrastructure)and [Twitter ](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel)accounts for the most up-to-date news and information surrounding the HTF debate. 4\. Download the “Save America’s Infrastructure” phone app, and email or call your Senators and Representative, directly from your phone. It’s available on [Android ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.asce.reportcard&hl=en)and [Apple ](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/save-americas-infrastructure/id989892323?mt=8). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Keeping%20the%20U.S.%20from%20Driving%20into%20Potholes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, congress, economy, highway trust fund, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [Senate Committee Passes Surface Transportation Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-committee-passes-surface-transportation-bill/) **Published:** June 24, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Committee%20Passes%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FDRIVEAct.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Committee%20Passes%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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The DRIVE Act was unveiled earlier this week by EPW Committee leaders Chairman James Inhofe (R-OK), Ranking Member Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Subcommittee Chairman David Vitter (R-LA) and committee member Senator Thomas Carper (D-DE). The bill would increase funding levels for highway programs by approximately $2.5 billion per year. The responsibility to identify how to pay for that increase, along with the annual Highway Trust Fund shortfall of $15 billion, belongs to the Senate Finance Committee. Tomorrow the Finance Committee will hold a hearing on transportation financing, where in testimony to the Committee ASCE [underscored](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Senate-Finance-ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record-062515.pdf) the importance of public support for funding as necessary to improving future financing opportunities. While Finance is still determining how they would like to pay for the DRIVE Act, in a recent [interview ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dWjm3sJYjc "ASCE/Inhofe interview")with ASCE, Chairman Inhofe noted that he believes that General Fund revenues plus dollars from any corporate repatriation tax changes could address the funding gap. In addition to Finance, there are a few other Senate committees that need to act before the July 31 deadline to approve their transportation policy pieces, like transit and driver safety items. ASCE sent a [support letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ASCE-Supports-DRIVE-Act.pdf) to Senate leaders in favor of the DRIVE Act and President Bob Stevens issued a statement where he said, “The DRIVE Act achieves many of the goals that we as civil engineers believe must be addressed in the next surface transportation reauthorization and accomplishes these goals in a bipartisan fashion.” Some of the policy items contained in the DRIVE Act that ASCE supports include: - Increased program funding over a six-year period; - Multi-year program certainty that will help states and localities better plan and deliver projects; - Prioritizing funding for bridge maintenance and repair; - A focus on Interstate Highway System maintenance; - Establishment of a new freight program, funded at $2 billion annually, to improve goods movement; - Establishment of a new competitive grant program for large highway projects; - Increased accounting and reader-friendly reporting of how Highway Trust Fund dollars are spent; - Accelerated project delivery reforms aimed to improve collaboration between agencies and create deadlines for agency action(s); - An option for rural areas to bundle small projects such as bridges to increase efficiency; - Encouragement of agencies on resilience planning and natural disaster risk reduction; - Expanding tolling to be available for use on all new Interstate Highway System lane construction projects; - Creating a new intelligent transportation systems grant to accelerate technology deployment; and - Providing grants to states for continued and expanded pilot testing of future road user fee collection systems. From now until the July 31 deadline, ASCE will need your [help i](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)n keeping the pressure on Congress to move quickly and approve the DRIVE Act as well as a sustainable, long-term funding proposal that will #FixTheTrustFund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Committee%20Passes%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, roads, senate, transit, transportation --- ### [Special Sessions Tackle State Infrastructure Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/special-sessions-tackle-state-infrastructure-needs/) **Published:** June 25, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")[![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ph111.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ph111.jpg)With summer upon us, many state legislators are finding themselves stuck in “summer school” in order to hammer out bills to address growing infrastructure needs. With the exception of a few states who meet year-round, most state legislatures will convene anywhere from 60 to 100 days. Unfortunately, this year many of states with short sessions now find themselves working well into the summer months in order to reach common ground on bills that will fund surface transportation in their state. Whether is sticking it out at the state house beyond their required adjournment date or being called back by the Governor until a deal is reached, a healthy handful of states find themselves working tirelessly to find a solution. Our summer watch list includes: California, Illinois, Maine, Oregon, South Carolina, and Washington. - **California**’s Governor Jerry Brown called for [a two week special session](http://www.capradio.org/articles/2015/06/16/brown-to-call-special-sessions-as-part-of-budget-deal/) to focus on the state’s investment in transportation infrastructure. With the state facing a number of competing proposals—and needs—the hopes is to develop a long-term and sustainable funding solution. From high speed rail to road repair, Governor Brown is looking to the legislature to deliver a package that will improve public safety and secure the state’s economic future. - **Illinois** finds itself in [an extended regular session](http://wqad.com/2015/06/17/illinois-budget-talks-stall-countdown-to-cuts-begin/) as it moves to reach a balanced budget that includes transportation and water infrastructure funding. At present the legislature is delivering budget bills in piecemeal fashion as it finds itself at an impasse with the Governor’s Office. The 2016 fiscal year begins on July 1, 2015 and without a budget in place Governor Rauner has indicated program cuts would begin to take effect. Up to now, it is expected the Department of Transportation will not be affected. - **Maine**, like Illinois, finds itself in the middle of a larger budget battle. The most [recent proposal](http://www.pressherald.com/2015/06/19/legislature-completes-override-of-lepage-budget-vetoes/) was met with a number of vetoes (and later veto overrides) including the separate highway and transportation budget. Governor LePage removed $2.9 million in line items from the state’s transportation that will require additional votes in the state Senate to be restored. This after a number of promising bills that would have established study commissions to assess the overall condition of the state’s surface transportation systems did not advance. - **Oregon** with its Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) program set to start July 1, 2015 the legislature is still in discussions with Governor Kate Brown over funding $200 million in roads repairs through a 4-cent gas tax increase. With [rumors a deal is near](http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2015/06/senate_gang_of_eight_members_p.html) we expect that Oregon legislators will be among the first to head back their home districts. - **South Carolina**’s legislature burned the midnight oil in Columbia and reached that will [allocate an additional $216 million](http://www.thestate.com/news/state/south-carolina/article25409560.html) to fund county road maintenance and repairs beyond the $71 million already distributed among counties from their portion of the state gas tax. The transportation budget also includes the potential for $500 million in state bonds for large highway projects. The bill has been sent to Governor Nikki Haley for signature as legislators prepare to return home for the summer. - **Washington** State’s legislature has already push through and received Governor Inslee’s approval on the operating portion of the Department of Transportation’s budget. The legislature nearing the end of its second special session, has [again stalled](http://union-bulletin.com/news/2015/jun/19/state-transportation-bill-talks-stall/) when it comes to reaching agreement on a funding measure. While there was consensus for the package that included a 11.7 cent per gallon gas tax increase during the regular session, discussion that would lead to revenue generation for highways, bridges, and ferries, have been put in a holding pattern behind larger budget negotiations. Now that the heat of summer has arrived the heat is on to get these lawmakers back home. As they look to neighboring states that have already taken action (and adjourned until next year), we fully expect legislators in these states will also make strides when it comes to meeting their infrastructure needs. We will watch as they work furiously to ensure that there is no disruption in state operations come July 1 and know they will diligently make necessary investments in maintaining and improving the condition of infrastructure in their state. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Special%20Sessions%20Tackle%20State%20Infrastructure%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, state government, transportation --- ### [Momentum to DRIVE up infrastructure funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/momentum-to-drive-up-infrastructure-funding/) **Published:** June 26, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Momentum%20to%20DRIVE%20up%20infrastructure%20funding "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Momentum%20to%20DRIVE%20up%20infrastructure%20funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With a new surface transportation re-authorization bill on the table, the process to pass a long-term bill before Congress’ July 31 deadline is materializing. This week the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee passed a six-year, $278 billion surface transportation reauthorization bill called the [Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy (DRIVE) Act](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/245971-senate-panel-approves-275b-transportation-plan). This bipartisan bill would increase funding for highway programs by approximately $2.5 billion per year. The Senate Finance Committee held a [hearing](http://www.finance.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=571670eb-5056-a032-52b2-d8407a6f4374), which explored federal, state and local financing options for road, bridge, and transit projects. After Congress returns from the Independence Day recess, it is possible that additional Senate committees will act to put the final pieces of the transportation bill into place before the July 31 deadline. Funding the bill is the key challenge, with no consensus yet on where to come up with the approximately $100 billion necessary to fund the DRIVE Act. While Congress is working on funding a long-term bill, more states are being affected by the lack of certainty. As a reminder of why our country desperately needs to increase investment into the program, The [Washington Post](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/wp/2015/06/25/why-driving-on-americas-roads-can-be-more-expensive-than-you-think/) featured [TRIP](http://tripnet.org/)’s latest analysis on the best and worst road conditions in the nation, showing that 28 percent of our nation’s roadways are in “poor” condition. Drivers in six states plus the [District of Columbia](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/are-the-districts-roads-really-the-worst-in-the-country/2015/06/25/d8966e38-1b6f-11e5-93b7-5eddc056ad8a_story.html) can expect to pay well over $600 a year in extra vehicle upkeep costs due to bad roads, and drivers in Oklahoma and California will pay up to $760 per year. These dire road needs nation-wide demonstrate it’s time for us to modernize our transportation network, and further prove that states cannot wait for Congress to act. Several states are struggling to fund much-needed state infrastructure projects and taking infrastructure funding matters into their own hands. In Arizona, [Phoenix ](http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/powerpost/wp/2015/06/25/phoenix-mayor-cities-adjusting-to-less-federal-money-for-transportation/)Mayor Greg Stanton discussed how he recognizes that improving infrastructure will take all levels of government—and that Congress must do its part by passing a multiyear surface transportation bill., In [Maryland](http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/jun/25/larry-hogan-maryland-governor-announces-funding-pl/), Governor Hogan announced that the state would allocate $1.97 billion for road, bridge and highway improvement projects, emphasizing that “building, maintaining and fixing Maryland’s roads and bridges is our top transportation priority.” Similarly, [Arkansas](http://swtimes.com/news/state-news/arkansas-highway-officials-pull-six-projects-bid-opening)’ and [Delaware](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/traffic/2015/06/24/political-gridlock-puts-deldot-funding-peril/29217911/)’s local state construction projects are stalled due to uncertainty of federal highway funding. With the July 31 deadline quickly approaching, it is more critical than ever to [urge ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)Congress to pass a sustainable, long-term funding proposal that will [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Momentum%20to%20DRIVE%20up%20infrastructure%20funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund --- ### [#FixTheTrustFund This Week: Time to Talk to Congress While They’re Home](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fixthetrustfund-this-week-time-to-talk-to-congress-while-theyre-home/) **Published:** June 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")*The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) was set up in 1956 to fund the build and maintain a transportation network nationwide. Today, it is the national bank account for roads, bridges and transit that reimburses states for eligible projects. Inaction by Congress has put the Highway Trust Fund in jeopardy, and with a month left before the temporary funding fix runs out on July 31st, Congress is nowhere near to closing a deal to generate sustainable revenue for the nation’s highway, bridge, and transit systems – investments vital to the health of our recovering economy. #FixTheTrustFund is a call to action to solve this transportation problem today.* **Send a Request Today to Meet with Your Members of Congress in July:** Congress is home and now is the perfect time to request a meeting in the District or find a town hall event they’re hosting near you. [Here are some helpful hints and how to set up a “back home” meeting](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy_Programs/Content_Pieces/back-home-visit-how-to.pdf). If you can’t meet in person, send your member of Congress [a quick letter about the Highway Trust Fund](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) or give their office a call and ask for the staff that handles transportation. [Look up their number and get talking points here](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?2&engagementId=107612). **Hear Senator Inholfe’s take on Congress’ role in fixing the Highway Trust Fund**: In this [video](http://blogs.asce.org/paving-the-way-to-a-new-surface-transportation-bill-insights-from-senate-committee-chair-inhofe/?utm_campaign=Comm-20150626-ASCEnews%20Weekly&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=89585B4E4CB4DAA620C819445F4173EA&elq=e28d0af7959e45459de0f0322bbe2e48&elqCampaignId=4848&elqaid=12113&elqat=1), Senator Inholfe talks with ASCE Senior Managing Director Casey Dinges on the government’s role in infrastructure as well as what we can do to help. Here are two latest blog posts on [ Congress’s agenda on the bill,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/momentum-to-drive-up-infrastructure-funding/) and [policies on the table](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/senate-committee-passes-surface-transportation-bill/). Here is a list of town hall events to tell them to [fix the Trust Fund](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833). | 6/29/2015 | Rep. Loudermilk(R-GA-11th) | Kennesaw City Hall Council Chambers 2529 J.O. Stephenson Ave. Kennesaw, GA 30144For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [loudermilk.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=234](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/loudermilk.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=234) **Starts at 6pm** | Town Hall Meeting | |---|---|---|---| | 6/29/2015 | Rep. Roe (R-TN-1) | Memorial Park Community Center510 Bert St. Johnson City, TN 37601 For more information on this meeting, follow this link: roe.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=397878 **Starts at 6pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/29/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Brookfield Public Safety Building 2100 North Calhoun Road Brookfield, WI 53005For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) **Starts at 7 pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/29/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Greenleaf City Hall 20523 North Whittier Drive Greenleaf, ID 83626For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 7:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/29/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Notus City Hall 375 Notus Road Notus, ID 83656For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 6pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Boise Public Library Marion Bingham Room, Third Floor 715 South Capitol Boulevard Boise, ID 83702For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 11am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | M ountain Home City Hall 160 South Third East Street Mountain Home, ID 83647For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 1:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Sessions (R-AL) | A bbeville Town Hall 116 Kirkland Street Abbeville, AL 36310For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.dothaneagle.com/blogs/inside\_page/jeff-sessions-holding-town-hall-meetings-in-the-wiregrass/article\_6c6b63e4-1c1e-11e5-b6aa-df2f5bd0867a.html ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.dothaneagle.com/blogs/inside_page/jeff-sessions-holding-town-hall-meetings-in-the-wiregrass/article_6c6b63e4-1c1e-11e5-b6aa-df2f5bd0867a.html)**Starts at 10:30am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Amash (R-MI-3rd) | Caledonia Township Offices 8196 Broadmoor Ave SE Caledonia, MI 49316**Starts at 5:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Bost (R-IL-12th) | DuQuoin City Hall 28 South Washington St. DuQuoin, IL 62832**Starts at 3:30 pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Boyle (D-PA-13th) | Episcopal Church of Our Savior 821 Homestead Avenue Jenkintown, PA 19046**Starts at 6:30 pm** | Climate Change Town Hall | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Cartwright (D-PA-17th) | Fox Hill Firehouse 50 2nd Street Plains, PA 18702**Starts at 6:30 pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Fredonia Public Library Lafferty Room 807 Jefferson Street Fredonia, KS 66736**Starts at 3pm** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Memorial Building Alliance Room 101 South Lincoln Avenue Chanute, KS 66720**Starts at 1:15pm** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Columbus Chamber Building Community Room 320 East Maple Street Columbus, KS 66725**Starts at 11:30AM** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Womack (R-AR-3rd) | Barling Senior Citizen Center 1605 M Street Barling, AR 72923For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [womack.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=398544](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/womack.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=398544) **Starts at 8:30am** | Coffee with your Congressman | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. McClintock(R-CA-4th) | El Dorado County Board of Supervisor’s Chambers 330 Fair Lane Placerville, CA 95667**Starts at 6pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep.McSally (R-AZ-2nd) | T ucson District Office 4400 East Broadway Boulevard Suite 510 Tucson, AZ 85711**Starts at 4:30pm** | District Open House | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Jackson Village Hall N168 W20733 Main Street Jackson, WI 53037For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 1pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Oconomowoc City Hall 174 East Wisconsin Avenue Oconomowoc, WI 53066For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 7pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Addison Town Hall 127 1st Street Allentown, WI 53002For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 11am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Kewaskum Village Hall 204 1st Street Kewaskum, WI 53040For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) **Starts at 10am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Newburg Village Hall 614 Main Street Newburg, WI 53060For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) **Starts at 9am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 6/30/2015 | Rep. Zinke (R-MT-At Large) | Rising Mountains Assisted Living Center 225 Coverdell Rd. Bigfork, MT 59911**Starts at 4pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Lincoln County Community Center Jerry Nance Hall 201 South Beverly Street Shoshone, ID 83352For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 2 pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Ketchum City Hall 480 East Avenue North Ketchum, ID 83340For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 9:30 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Sen. Crapo(R-ID) | Blaine County School District Community Campus, Minnie Moore Room 1050 Fox Acres Road Hailey, ID 83333For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 11 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Sen. Lankford (R-OK) | Town Hall 123 S. Main St. Hennessey, OK 73742**Starts at 10:15am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Bilirakis(R-FL-12th) | West Pasco Government CenterSuite 150 8731 Citizens Drive New Port Richey, FL 34654 **Starts at 5:30pm** | Veteran Town Hall | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-2nd) | Central Georgia Technical College Building H, Room 111 3300 Macon Tech Dr. Macon, GA 31206VA Secretary Bob McDonald will be in attendance. **Starts at 12pm** | Veterans Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Bost (R-IL-12th) | Waterloo Fire Department 223 North Main St. Waterloo, IL 62298**Starts at 6pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Bucshon (R-IN-8th) | Evansville District Office 420 Main Street Suite 1402 Evansville, IN 47708Constituents can make appointments by calling the number provided. **This meeting requires an RSVP.** RSVP by phone at (812) 232-0523 Starts at 1:30pm | Office Hours | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Emmer (R-MN-6th) | Ace Bar and Grill 423 East Germain Street St. Cloud, MN 56304For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [emmer.house.gov/coffee ](https://ssl.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/emmer.house.gov/coffee)**Starts at 7pm** | Coffee With Your Congressman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Townhall Center 125 West 5th Avenue Garnett, KS 66032**Starts at 2pm** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Coffey County Library Meeting Room 410 Juniatta Street Burlington, KS 66839**Starts at 3:45pm** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | City Hall Commission Room 123 South Main Street Fort Scott, KS 66701**Starts at 10am** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Jenkins(R-KS-2nd) | Pleasanton City Hall Council Chambers 1608 Laurel Street Pleasanton, KS 66075**Starts at 11:30 am** | Coffee With Your Congresswoman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Rothfus (R-PA-12th) | Hank’s Custard Shop 2210 3rd Avenue New Brighton, PA 15066**Starts at 4pm** | Ice Cream With Keith | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Rothfus (R-PA-12th) | Cole Cafe 1718 Mount Royal Boulevard Glenshaw, PA 15116**Starts at 8:30 am** | Coffee with Keith | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Sullivan Village Hall 500 Madison Avenue Sullivan, WI 53178For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 11:30 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Helenville Fire Hall N4737 North Helenville Road Helenville, WI 53137For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 10:45 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Nashotah Village Hall N44W32950 Watertown Plank Road PO Box 123 Nashotah, WI 53058For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) **Starts at 9am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Palmyra Village Hall 100 Taft Street Palmyra, WI 53156For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/) **Starts at 1pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5th) | Johnson Creek Village Hall 125 Depot Street Johnson Creek, WI 53038For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/ ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/sensenbrenner.house.gov/contact/)**Starts at 10am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Torres (D-CA-35) | Rialto Senior Center1411 S. Riverside Ave. Rialto, CA 92376 **Starts at 5pm** | Congress On Your Corner | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Womack (R-AR-3rd) | Centerton City Hall Courtroom 290 Main Street Centerton, AR 72719**Starts at 8:30am** | Coffee with the Congressman | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Zinke (R-MT-At Large) | Glacier Bank 222 Dewey Avenue Eureka, MT 59917**Starts at 9 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/1/2015 | Rep. Zinke (R-MT-At Large) | Lincoln County Library Public Meeting Room 220 West 6th Street Libby, MT 59923**Starts at 12:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | **7/2/2015** | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Burley Public Library 1300 Miller Avenue Burley, ID 83318For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 2pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Heyburn City Offices 941 18th Street Heyburn, ID 83336For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 3:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Murtaugh City Park Wally’s Park Pavilion 3325 Murtaugh Road Murtaugh, ID 83344For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 11:30am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | T & T Cafe 195 Rock Creek Road Hansen, ID 83334For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 10 am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Markley (D-OR) | VFW Hall 205 1st Street East Huntington, OR 97907**Starts at 1:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Markley (D-OR) | Harney County Senior and Community Service Center 17 South Alder Avenue Burns, OR 97720**Starts at 7pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Markley (D-OR) | Adrian Schools Cafeteria 305 Owyhee Street Adrian, OR 97901**Starts at 11am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Wyden (D-OR) | Gr ant County Regional Airport 72000 Airport Rd. John Day, OR 97845**Starts at 4pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Sen. Wyden (D-OR) | Mitchell Community Hall108 S. Nelson Mitchell, OR 97750 **Starts at 12pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Rep.BishopJr. (D-GA-2nd) | National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Heritage Hall 1775 Legacy Way Columbus, GA 31903VA Secretary Bob McDonald will be in attendance. **Starts at 8am** | Veterans Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Rep. McClintock(R-CA-4th) | Tuolumne County Administration Center Board of Supervisors Chambers 2 South Green Street Sonora, CA 95370**Starts at 5:30 pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/2/2015 | Rep. Rothfus (R-PA-12th) | Pine Grill Restaurant 800 North Centre Avenue Somerset, PA 15501**Starts at 10 am** | Coffee With Keith | | 7/3/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Ucon City Council Chambers 3787 East 112 Street North Idaho Falls, ID 83401For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 9:30am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/3/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Ashton Community Center 925 Main Street Ashton, ID 83420For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 11:30am** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/3/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Rigby Senior Citizens Center 391 Community Lane Rigby, ID 83442For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764) **Starts at 4:30pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/3/2015 | Sen. Crapo (R-ID) | Island Park EMS Building 4329 Library Road Island Park, ID 83429For more information on this meeting, follow this link: [www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release\_full.cfm?id=360764 ](https://asce.capwiz.com/asce/admin/kl/www.crapo.senate.gov/media/newsreleases/release_full.cfm?id=360764)**Starts at 2pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/3/2015 | Sen. Wyden | Josephy Center for Arts and Culture403 N. Main St. Joseph, OR 97846 **Starts at 2pm** | Town Hall Meeting | | 7/4/2015 | Rep. Sherman (D-CA-30th) | Warner Center Park 5800 Topanga Canyon Boulevard Woodland Hills, CA 91367**Starts at 6:30pm** | Constituent Services Booth | | | | | |---|---|---| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | **Download ASCE’s New Save America’s Infrastructure App** for [iPhone](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20150529-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&utm_campaign=GR-20150515-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=24271&elq=ee32c7eca2dc43e89addb2891c196da1&elqaid=11852&elqat=1&elqTrackId=A4DD4936448CDA7B3A939A70E253C519&elq=0bff935fa9cc45af98cc6ea62fdd3617&elqCampaignId=4712&elqaid=11931&elqat=1) and [Android](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20150529-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&utm_campaign=GR-20150515-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=24272&elq=ee32c7eca2dc43e89addb2891c196da1&elqaid=11852&elqat=1&elqTrackId=55D516F285342DDF1523E63DD4DD6655&elq=0bff935fa9cc45af98cc6ea62fdd3617&elqCampaignId=4712&elqaid=11931&elqat=1). The app will remind you with a notification when it is most important for Congress to hear from you making it easier than ever to respond to Key Alerts wherever you are. It also provides infrastructure news, a quick reference to the *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* grades, and facts worth knowing about your state’s infrastructure. [Get the free app here!](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-20150529-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&utm_campaign=GR-20150515-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=24271&elq=ee32c7eca2dc43e89addb2891c196da1&elqaid=11852&elqat=1&elqTrackId=A4DD4936448CDA7B3A939A70E253C519&elq=0bff935fa9cc45af98cc6ea62fdd3617&elqCampaignId=4712&elqaid=11931&elqat=1) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23FixTheTrustFund%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20to%20Talk%20to%20Congress%20While%20They%E2%80%99re%20Home&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Can you hold your own on our infrastructure quiz? Let’s find out!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/14681-2/) **Published:** July 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F07%2FInfrastructure-I.Q.-preview-7.21-1024x208.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21 "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F07%2FInfrastructure-I.Q.-preview-7.21-1024x208.jpg&description=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21 "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[“Test your Infrastructure I.Q.”](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/quiz/ ""Test your Infrastructure IQ"") is a quiz to help you learn more about our nation’s infrastructure. The quiz is a fun, interactive tool and covers 16 categories of American infrastructure: energy, schools, public parks & recreation, transit, roads, rail, ports, inland waterways, bridges, aviation, wastewater, solid waste, levees, hazardous waste, drinking water and dams. If you get a question wrong, you can find the answer and maybe learn a few other facts as well. What are you waiting on? [It’s time to test your infrastructure I.Q.!](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/quiz/) [![Infrastructure I.Q. preview 7.2](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Infrastructure-I.Q.-preview-7.21-1024x208.jpg)](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/quiz/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Can%20you%20hold%20your%20own%20on%20our%20infrastructure%20quiz%3F%20Let%E2%80%99s%20find%20out%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Drinking Water, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** bridges, Drinking Water, report card, Report Card for America's Infrastructure, roads, transportation, wastewater --- ### [July 1 is a Green Light for OReGO Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/july-1-is-a-green-light-for-orego-program/) **Published:** July 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=July%201%20is%20a%20Green%20Light%20for%20OReGO%20Program&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FOReGO_logo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=July%201%20is%20a%20Green%20Light%20for%20OReGO%20Program "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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It was the first state to enact a fuel tax back in 1919 and didn’t stop there. Over the decades the state has completed a number of studies to determine the impact of vehicles on its roads. In 2001, the legislature formed the “Road User Fee Task Force” to explore innovative ways of meeting the maintenance and improvement need of the state’s transportation system. It was this panel that leads us today’s launch of the [OReGO program](http://www.myorego.org/). OReGO is a first of its kind program through which volunteers will pay a road usage charge for the amount of miles they drive, instead of the standard fuel tax. How does this work? Well, the current usage charge is set at 1.5-cents per mile. Participants will receive a credit on their tax bill to offset the fuel taxes paid at the pump. If you drive an electric vehicle you’ll simply pay the per mile usage charge without the fuel tax offset. The program rolls begins accepting volunteer applications (up to 5,000 participants) beginning today, July 1, 2015, and I’m proud to be one of them. My decision to participate was based on personal and professional reasons: On a personal level, I feel we all need to contribute to the maintenance and repair of the property we use. On a professional level, civil engineers need to be advocates for ensuring our infrastructure maintenance and repair is adequately funded into the future. You can check out how [the pilot program has impacted others](http://www.myorego.org/about/stories/) who have opted in, including the firsthand account of a state legislator. Participation is as simple as a completing an interest survey and selecting a service provider to track your mileage. When you receive your device simply plug it in and drive! The device is attached to a credit card and will bill you based on the number of miles you drove during a given period and, of course, receive a credit for any fuel taxes paid during the same period. I’ll be plugging mine in today. If your immediate thought is “I don’t want the state to track when and where I’m driving,” I had similar apprehensions. There are several available options, though, and volunteers have the ability to select the device, reporting/monitoring, and payment program that fits his/her needs and desired privacy level. He can opt to have “GPS enabled” or non-GPS devices record his miles. The advantage of a “GPS enabled” device is that she will only be charged for miles traveled within the State of Oregon’s borders. Many of the [current comparison models](http://www.community.myorego.org/blog/the-rewards-of-driving-hybrids-and-evs/) contrast a fuel efficient hybrid with a heavy duty pick-up truck using the average mileage recorded by Oregonians like you and me. Under this model the hybrid driver would pay a little more in user fees but, reap savings in overall fuel costs while the pick-up truck driver would see benefits on both sides via the fuel tax credit applied toward user fees. If you think you might be able to put some cash back in your pocket while still funding our roads check out the [monthly cost calculator](http://www.myorego.org/about/calculator/). All net revenue generated from road usage fees will be deposited directly into the State Highway Fund. The State Highway Fund is currently distributed 50 percent to the state, 30 percent to counties and 20 percent to cities. It is important to remember that all vehicles are treated the same under the OReGO program. With the exception of a credit received by vehicles that fuel up, the more vehicles that participate in OReGO the more opportunities for Oregonians to share the cost of using our roads. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Holiday%20Travel%20Will%20Further%20Stress%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Ailing%20Highways&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With Independence Day around the corner, now is a good time to reflect upon the freedoms we have enjoyed for the past 239 years. To this day, our national interstate highway system represents the freedom of mobility that we enjoy as Americans. This holiday weekend, AAA is predicting that[ nearly 42 million Americans will travel](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/246443-forty-two-million-travelers-predicted-for-july-4-holiday) at least 50 miles from home on the nation’s roads and highways. Given the dire condition and investment needs of our surface transportation, Congress must remember that ultimately they are responsible for maintaining and modernizing our transportation network. Despite Congress’ constitutional responsibility to fund surface transportation, our lack of federal road, bridge and transit funding means has led many states to step up transportation funding themselves. [Six states](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/246464-six-states-increasing-gas-taxes-on-july-1) have increased their gas tax starting July 1, including Idaho, Georgia, Maryland, Rhode Island, Nebraska and Vermont. Earlier this week, [Washington](http://kuow.org/post/washington-gas-tax-package-passes-suspension-class-size-measure-fails) joined other states this year in passing a transportation bill that includes a gas tax increase of 12 cents per gallon. This is reflective of the trend noted recently in [Huffington Post](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joshua-l-schank-phd/the-state-of-transportati_b_7700416.html) about the many states that have enacted transportation funding this year, while another 16 are in the process of doing so. These actions will “generate billions of additional dollars” for local transit and highway projects. As motorists hit the roads this weekend, let’s hope that the traffic headaches they will certainly face will motivate Congress to come up with a funding solution to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Holiday%20Travel%20Will%20Further%20Stress%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Ailing%20Highways&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, highway trust fund, roads, states --- ### [#FIXTHETRUSTFUND This Week: Time for Congress’ Next Move](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fixthetrustfund-this-week-time-for-congress-next-move/) **Published:** July 6, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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transit bill. However to truly move forward, Senate leadership and the Senate Finance Committee need to find the revenue to move the DRIVE Act forward. With just 16 working days with both chambers in session before the July 31 deadline, it’s important that Congress hear from you. Drive Congress to #FixTheTrustFund in the following ways: [![Make a call](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Make-a-call.png)](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?1&engagementId=107612)[![tell legislators](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/tell-legislators.png "Vermont-State-Fact-Sheet")](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=104833)[![be social](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/be-social.png)](https://twitter.com/search?q=%23fixthetrustfund&src=typd) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23FIXTHETRUSTFUND%20This%20Week%3A%20Time%20for%20Congress%E2%80%99%20Next%20Move&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, call, congress, highway trust fund, roads, transit --- ### [Gas Tax Gets New Attention](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-gets-new-attention/) **Published:** July 10, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Congress has only three weeks left to pass a robust, multiyear surface transportation bill before the self-imposed deadline. This week ASCE joined with the American Road and Transportation Builders Association in s[ponsoring an ad directed at Congress and the President, asking that they continue the legacy of federal investment in transportation](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmGu6XhM01o). One Congressman introduced legislation this week that could be an answer to that call. Republican Rep. Tom Rice’s legislation, [“The Highway Trust Fund Certainty Act,”](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/247311-gop-bill-would-hike-gas-tax-by-10-cents) would raise the federal gas tax by 10.1 cents-per-gallon and index the rate to inflation. This rate would increase Trust Fund revenues by $17 billion—addressing the current funding shortfall and allowing slight growth to the program. In a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ASCE-Endorsement-of-Highway-Trust-Fund-Certainty-Act.pdf) to the Congressman, ASCE commended Rep. Rice’s leadership on this issue, but noted that additional federal investment will still be required to meet our nation’s long-term surface transportation infrastructure needs. Another gas tax increase proposal, the UPDATE Act,[ also continues to gain supporters and now has 35 co-sponsor](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/247212-house-dem-wants-to-nearly-double-gas-tax)s. Meanwhile, Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx is [urging Congress ](http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/nation/2015/07/08/administration-urges-long-term-highway-bill/29883937/)to step up and pass a long-term highway funding bill. “We’ve got some problems. I would label it a crisis — a legitimate, disturbing and alarming crisis in our infrastructure system,” Foxx told a small group of reporters at the department’s headquarters Wednesday. He also warned that the administration will begin to notify states about the threat to their transportation funding if Congress doesn’t pass a long-term extension soon. States like [Alabama](http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/07/alabama_infrastructure_25_perc.html), [Massachusetts](http://wwlp.com/2015/07/09/your-western-mass-roads-are-deteriorating/), [Montana](http://www.ktvh.com/home/headlines/20-Bridges-are-Obsolete--313058471.html), [New Hampshire](http://www.fosters.com/article/20150709/NEWS/150709327), [South Dakota](http://www.bhpioneer.com/opinion/article_3db0d674-2650-11e5-9b3c-eb2813372187.html), [Missouri ](http://www.stltoday.com/news/opinion/mailbag/increase-gas-tax-before-missouri-roads-get-even-worse/article_32b37c53-ec52-5788-a0d1-250e5f861a00.html)and [more ](http://dnews.com/local/idaho-washington-roads-in-serious-need-of-repair/article_fa62d8d7-36c2-5c16-a0fe-472a07904a56.html)are publicly acknowledging their dire infrastructure needs and have begun to halt construction due to the uncertainty of federal funding. With three weeks left, it’s important that your Members of Congress hear from you about why they must work together to come up with a long-term funding solution before July 31 in order to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). [Write a letter](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=104833), c[all you Senators’ and Representative’s offices](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612), and tweet using [\#FixTheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23fixthetrustfund) to remind your representation in Washington they have a job to do and a deadline fast approaching. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Gas%20Tax%20Gets%20New%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, roads --- ### [Congressional Focus Remains on Highway & Transit Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressional-focus-remains-on-highway-transit-bill/) **Published:** July 13, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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will gear-up over the future of federal highway and transit funding and policy. The House is expected to approve a [six-month extension of current policy](http://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2015/07/10/house-gop-working-to-extend-highway-funding-to-end-of-year), which would cost approximately $9 billion. The Senate is expected to take-up highway legislation later this week, but it remains unclear to length and scope of legislation that they will be pursuing. Majority Leader McConnell has [expressed support ](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-republican?ID=AC9BD904-15A4-4BCD-9B3F-B4E9B4512D6F)for a multi-year bill, possibly some form of the DRIVE Act. However, other Senators have discussed the option of [extending the current policy ](http://www.bloomberg.com/politics/articles/2015-07-09/schumer-open-to-short-highway-patch-with-international-tax-bill)to the end of the year with the hopes of dedicated revenues to transportation from international tax reform. The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee is [set to mark-](http://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?p=PressReleases&ContentRecord_id=d3f3343c-b875-441c-95bf-d3708a7b3b12)up its safety, freight and rail portions of the bill this Wednesday morning. It remains unclear when or if the Senate Banking Committee will mark-up its transit portion of the bill. Last week, Congressman Tom Rice (R-7-SC) introduced the [H.R. 2971, “The Highway Trust Fund Certainty Act”,](https://www.congress.gov/114/bills/hr2971/BILLS-114hr2971ih.xml) which would raise federal motor fuels taxes by approximately 10 cents per gallon and index that rate to inflation in order to address the current annual Highway Trust Fund shortfall. In a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/ASCE-Endorsement-of-Highway-Trust-Fund-Certainty-Act.pdf) to the Congressman, ASCE commended Rep. Rice’s leadership on this issue, but noted that additional federal investment will still be required to meet our nation’s long-term surface transportation infrastructure needs. You can urge Congress to #FixTheTrustFund by the July 31 legislative deadline in the following ways: - **Send a request today to meet with your members of Congress:** [Here are some helpful hints and how to set up a “back home” meeting](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy_Programs/Content_Pieces/back-home-visit-how-to.pdf). - **Contact your Member of Congress via letter or phone call:** If you can’t meet in person, send your member of Congress [a quick letter about the Highway Trust Fund](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) or give their office a call and ask for the staff that handles transportation. [Look up their number and get talking points here](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?2&engagementId=107612). - **Communicate with your member of Congress via social media:** Most members of Congress have Facebook and Twitter pages. In addition to calling or writing a letter, urge them to #FixTheTrustFund on social media. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Focus%20Remains%20on%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, bridges, congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure --- ### [Infrastructure That’s Changing the Game](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-thats-changing-the-game/) **Published:** July 14, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/GC-Squares-and-Title-Logo-300x294.png "Michigan-State-Fact-Sheet")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/GC-Squares-and-Title-Logo.png)Our nation’s aging infrastructure is facing big challenges. But congested roadways and overflowing sewers are only half the story. That’s why the American Society of Civil Engineers is releasing a new report about the innovative ways communities across the country are modernizing infrastructure. *Infrastructure Game Changers* highlights trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure that are changing the way we design, plan, and build projects. The web-based report will be released on Thursday, July 23rd. Stay tuned so that you can be among the first to check it out, share it on social media using #GameChangers, and even submit your own game changing infrastructure trend. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20That%E2%80%99s%20Changing%20the%20Game&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** energy, freight, gamechangers, transportation, water --- ### [Five (More) Myths About the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/five-more-myths-about-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** July 15, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Devolving the federal program to the states is a viable option** Devolution is the idea of eliminating the federal government’s ability to collect the current 18.4 cents per gallon in federal gasoline taxes (absent a few cents to remain dedicated toward maintaining the Interstate Highway System) and transferring all authority over these programs to the state. This act would represent one of the single greatest unfunded mandates at nearly $50 billion—a violation of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995. The current system empowers states by making the federal role a reimbursement process, allowing states to make their own planning and building decisions while also having some overall coordination and safety standards among states. Many states have raised their own gas taxes recently, essentially catching up the purchasing power of their current gas tax rates with inflation since they were last adjusted. For example, Iowa had not raised its gas tax since 1989 and its 10-cent increase was a hard fought battle[. To ask states to pick up the tab for the federal role](http://www.artba.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/TCC-Devolution-Map.pdf)—which on average is 52% of the state’s capital budget each year—would be a huge burden to states’ budgets. On average, states would need to raise their gas tax by 23 cents or significantly cut their transportation program. It would not be the easy task that the proponents of devolution make it out to be. Instead, our roads, bridges and transit would continue to deteriorate and the backlog of projects would grow longer and the system will become patchwork if some states fail to make investments. **2. Transportation has become a partisan issue** Transportation has historically been a bipartisan issue, and passing a multi-year, properly funded transportation bill will only be accomplished through bipartisan cooperation. In the past year, there have been several bipartisan proposals to help address the Highway Trust Fund crisis. Senators Bob [Corker (R-TN) and Tom Carper (D-DE) have proposed a plan](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2015/01/11/corker-calls-federal-gas-tax-hike/21603217/). In the House, Reps. Renacci (R-OH), Pascrell (D-NJ), Ribble (R-WI), and Lipinski (D-IL) have introduced the [Bridge to Sustainable Infrastructure Act](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/239095-bill-filed-to-index-gas-tax-to-inflation). Before the Independence Day Recess, the Senate Committee on Environment & Public Works unanimously passed the DRIVE Act out of committee. Both sides of the aisle acknowledge that our transportation system is ailing and that something must be done. [Fixing the Highway Trust Fund](www.fixthetrustfund.org) is, at its heart, a bipartisan endeavor. **3. Flat funding is fine** If Congress does not grow the program and increase federal funding levels in the next multiyear transportation bill, then our economy will continue to suffer. In 2011, ASCE released an economic study on transportation titled [*Failure to Act*,](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) which details how underinvesting in transportation is a drag on our economy. The study outlined what the economic ramifications will be by 2020 if status quo funding levels continue. Among them, we revealed that America’s GDP will underperform by $897 billion in total by 2020 and each family’s budget loses $1,060 each year in disposable income—money every American household has already lost and will continue to lose if we don’t improve our transportation network. Underinvestment in transportation will cost our economy 877,000 jobs in the year 2020. Continuing to fund at current levels for the next several years will neither improve our aging transportation network, nor grow the economy **4. A gas tax is not politically possible** Several states have recently acted in bipartisan fashion to pass gas tax increases. In those states, [90% of those who voted in favor the gas tax increase got reelected in the following election.](http://t4america.org/maps-tools/state-transportation-funding/gas-tax-votes/) And many were conservative states, like Arkansas, which needed to see a high return on investment. A poll by the Mineta Transportation Institute demonstrated [that people are willing to pay more in gas taxes](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/240527-poll-voters-would-support-10-cent-gas-tax-hike) if it goes to improving transportation. This study shows that voters recognize the connection between potholed roads and aging bridges and underinvestment. In addition, the impact of a gas tax on gas prices is not as direct as sometimes thought. A recent [study by ARTBA](http://www.artba.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/How-a-Gas-Tax-Increase-Affects-the-Retail-Pump-Price-June-2015-ARTBA-Study-FINAL-2.pdf) finds that gas tax increases have very little impact on the overall price of a gallon of gas. CBO projects that the Highway Trust fund’ revenue shortfall will be $8 billion at the end of this year and be between $85 billion and $90 billion by May 31, 2021. There is no reason to add to the national debt and our burden on future generations when raising the gas tax is a deficit-neutral options. **5. We can kick the can again** Two-month stopgaps hurt the economy and American business. For two consecutive years, the summer highway and transit construction season has taken a hit because of the uncertainty surrounding the federal program. For example, just in the last few weeks and months, [several states have announced they are canceling or delaying projects](http://www.artba.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/ARTBA-HTF-Uncertainty-Report-03-27-2015.pdf) until Congress passes a multi-year bill. These short-term extensions not only delay existing projects in the pipeline but prevent major projects from being considered in light of the lack of a clear federal funding commitment. Ultimately the lack of certainty hinders our nation’s ability to dream big on ways to modernize our infrastructure and create the foundation for the 21st century economy. [See the original posts *10 Myths About the Highway Trust Fund.* ](http://blogs.asce.org/10-myths-about-the-highway-trust-fund/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Five%20%28More%29%20Myths%20About%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Five%20%28More%29%20Myths%20About%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Five%20%28More%29%20Myths%20About%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, highway trust fund, roads, surface transportation, transit --- ### [Time ticking away for Highway Trust Fund fix, but there is still hope](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/time-ticking-away-for-highway-trust-fund-fix-but-there-is-still-hope/) **Published:** July 17, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Time%20ticking%20away%20for%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20fix%2C%20but%20there%20is%20still%20hope&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F2013-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Time%20ticking%20away%20for%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund%20fix%2C%20but%20there%20is%20still%20hope "Share on 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While the House voted for a short-term extension until December, there’s still hope that the Senate’s multi-year bill, the DRIVE Act, will prevail before the July 31 deadline. The [House ](http://www.bizjournals.com/triangle/news/2015/07/15/u-s-house-releases-bill-to-extend-federal-highway.html)passed an $8.1 billion plan to fund the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) through December 18 by dedicating airport security fees and adjusting tax rules to keep the program solvent. While a short-term funding patch is better than shutting down the program and canceling projects, the House proposal is far short of the ideal: a well-funded, six-year highway and transit bill. Furthermore, the December punt would restart the countdown clock towards finding a long-term solution and extend construction uncertainty for five more months. The Senate will move towards debate on its six-year plan, the [DRIVE Act](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/245971-senate-panel-approves-275b-transportation-plan), on Tuesday, July 21. Should that vote succeed, Senate leaders will then quickly work to compile the remaining policy pieces necessary to form a comprehensive six-year road, bridge and transit bill before the July 31 legislative deadline. In recent days, senators have stated publicly that they are not optimistic about being able to fully fund the six-year DRIVE Act by July 31, but they have indicated they will try and generate as much funding as possible to get the maximum length while still growing the program. In a roundtable discussion with reporters on Wednesday,[ Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx](http://www.styrk.com/posts/secretary-long-term-funding-fix-for-infrastructure-needed) said that, “All the politics have all shaped around getting back to baseline funding, as if baseline funding is going to solve our problems. Meanwhile, the public is seeing conditions get worse and worse and worse, and so they’re wondering, ‘Why am I paying into this system and it’s getting worse?’” ASCE’s [Failure to Act Transportation Study](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) supports this claim. While Congress is [attempting ](http://www.nytimes.com/2015/07/17/us/politics/mcconnell-casts-doubt-on-houses-plan-for-transportation-bill.html?_r=2)to agree on the right funding solution, states are paying the price for Washington’s lack of action. On Tuesday, The [USDOT notified states](http://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/letter-state-dots-highway-trust-fund-and-cash-management-protocols) that federal funding for state transportation projects will run critically low starting sometime in August. USDOT also [announced ](http://www.transportation.gov/policy-initiatives/grow-america/road-and-bridge-data-state)road and bridge conditions in each state, utilizing ASCE data to make the case for investment. States like [Florida](http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/politics/fl-federal-transportation-funds-impact-20150715-story.html), [New Hampshire](http://www.nhbr.com/July-24-2015/Report-134-of-NH-bridges-structurally-deficient/), [Ohio](http://www.wateronline.com/doc/cincinnati-on-brink-of-infrastructure-disaster-0001), [Kentucky](http://www.kentuckynewera.com/news/article_5950198e-2b79-11e5-8f49-4f4944d6ca5c.html), [Texas](http://fuelfix.com/blog/2015/07/15/texas-flooding-reveals-deficient-infrastructure/), [New York](http://newyork.realestaterama.com/2015/07/13/as-the-highway-trust-fund-expiration-approaches-tonko-releases-report-on-urgent-infrastructure-needs-in-new-york-ID03622.html), [New Jersey](http://www.nj.com/traffic/index.ssf/2015/07/how_much_does_the_condition_of_nj_roads_cost_you.html), [Mississippi](http://www.msnewsnow.com/story/29558749/mississippi-highway-funding-could-be-in-jeopardy), [Oklahoma ](http://www.fox23.com/news/news/local/highway-trust-fund-expire-oklahoma-roads-disrepair/nmx8c/)and others are beginning to realize how lack of federal funding and certainty affects their state’s infrastructure needs. Without a long-term funding solution, state infrastructure projects will continue to be negatively impacted. With only two weeks left before the deadline to reauthorize the federal surface transportation program, it is more critical than ever before that Congress act quickly to pass a multi-year bill with a long-term funding solution before July 31. [Write a letter](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=104833), [call your Senators’ and Representatives’ offices,](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612) and tweet using [\#FixTheTrustFund](https://twitter.com/search?src=typd&q=%23fixthetrustfund) to remind your representation in Washington that they have a job to do and a deadline fast approaching. 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Turn](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fix-the-trust-fund-now-its-the-senates-turn/) **Published:** July 20, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Now%20it%E2%80%99s%20the%20Senate%E2%80%99s%20Turn&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fcb2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Now%20it%E2%80%99s%20the%20Senate%E2%80%99s%20Turn "Share on 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The House bill granted a $8.1 billion boost the Highway trust Fund (HTF) to keep it solvent past the looming July 31 deadline. This extension will fund surface transportation projects through the mid-December timeframe. The decision was reached, because extending the program is seen as a far better alternative than allowing the HTF to run out of money. “The last thing we want to do is see road construction stop at the beginning of August,” said [Rep. Paul Ryan](http://www.bizjournals.com/louisville/search/results?q=Rep.%20Paul%20Ryan), the Wisconsin Republican who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee. This week the Senate will pursue an alternative approach, where a bipartisan group of Republicans and Democrats, led by Majority Leader Mitch McConnell want to pass a long-term bill. Senate Republican leaders are trying to find money for a six-year bill, the DRIVE Act, which cleared the Environment and Public Works Committee a few weeks ago. The bill, S. 1647, would provide a twenty percent increase in funding over the course of six years and proposes reforms to improve freight movement, deliver large projects and streamline project delivery. The cycle of short-term extensions has blocked planning and delivery of major projects in several states, and even more states have announced that they will be forced to cancel and delay projects until the Congress enacts a multi-year bill. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx has said that uncertainty about highway funds has led to canceled projects in Georgia, Tennessee, Vermont, Delaware and Arkansas. He said that unless Congress acts to extend funding beyond the July 31 deadline, the U.S. Department of Transportation “will not have the authority to provide project sponsors with any additional contract authority for new or ongoing projects.” In early August, the balance of the Highway Trust Fund will drop below $4 billion which is when the reimbursement payments to states for completed projects will slow. The time is now to focus on the activity in the Senate and urge lawmakers to vote in favor of a long-term bill by the July 31 deadline. To help, you can: - **Send a request today to meet with your members of Congress:** Here are some helpful [hints ](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy_Programs/Content_Pieces/back-home-visit-how-to.pdf)and how to set up a “back home” meeting. - **Contact your Senators via letter or phone call:** If you can’t meet in person, send your Senators a [quick letter](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?6&engagementId=104833) or give their office a call and ask for the staff that handles transportation. Look up their number and get talking points [here](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?2&engagementId=107612). - **Communicate with your member of Congress via social media:** Most members of Congress have Facebook and Twitter pages. In addition to calling or writing a letter, urge them to #FixTheTrustFund on social media. 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Fix%20the%20Trust%20Fund%3A%20Now%20it%E2%80%99s%20the%20Senate%E2%80%99s%20Turn&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, bridges, congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure --- ### [New Game Changers Report Identifies Top Trends Shaping Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/game-changers-report-identifies-top-trends-shaping-infrastructure/) **Published:** July 23, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The Highway Trust Fund heading toward insolvency (again). Water main breaks occurring every two minutes. Congested roadways causing us each to lose time and waste gas. But that’s only half the story. Today, we released our new[ *Infrastructure #GameChangers*](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report, which identifies the top trends in [energy](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/energy), [freight](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/freight), [transportation ](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/transportation)and [water ](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/water)that are transforming the way infrastructure is designed, planned, and built. The communities that chose to make the investment across the country are reaping the benefits, by preparing for tomorrow’s challenges and positioning themselves for economic growth. Here are some of the trends explored in the [report](http://ascegamechangers.org/): Transportation - Ridesharing and transit apps - Robotic inspections - Bus rapid transit - Smart parking systems - Accelerated bridge construction Energy - LiDAR and drone technology - Integrating renewables - Preparing for blackouts with resilience Water - Extracting energy from waste - Recycled and reclaimed water - Desalinated water Freight - Public-private partnerships for inland waterways - Preparing for the Panama Canal expansion Check out these and many others at [ASCEgamechangers.org](http://ascegamechangers.org/). Then be sure to share your favorite on social media using #GameChangers. And if you know of an innovation we’ve missed, [tell us about it to include in future updates.](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Game%20Changers%20Report%20Identifies%20Top%20Trends%20Shaping%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FGC-Squares-and-Title-Logo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Game%20Changers%20Report%20Identifies%20Top%20Trends%20Shaping%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Countdown](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/its-the-final-countdown/) **Published:** July 24, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=It%E2%80%99s%20the%20Final%20Countdown&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=It%E2%80%99s%20the%20Final%20Countdown "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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ASCE supports swift passage of the bill the Senate is currently considering, which includes, at its core, ASCE’s favored legislation the [DRIVE Act](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/transportation-and-infrastructure-one-stop-shop), creates at least three years of solvency for the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), and includes safety provisions and transit policy. While the bill does not increase the gas tax, it does add revenue to the Highway Trust Fund that will provide three years of certain funding. On Thursday, TRIP, a transportation research group, released a new [report ](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/Urban_Roads_TRIP_Report_July_2015.pdf)that found 28 percent of major urban roads are in poor condition. The largest urban areas with the worst roads are San Francisco-Oakland and Los Angeles-Long Beach. On a brighter note, ASCE just released its [*\#GameChangers*](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report on Thursday to showcase some of the top trends in energy, freight, transportation and water that are paving the way for new innovative infrastructure projects. These game changing trends are examples of what is possible when communities invest, and serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing infrastructure at all levels of government. One of the projects featured in *\#GameChangers*, the[ Lady Bird tunnel-boring machine](http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/boring-machine-lady-bird-is-almost-done-with-its-work-digging-under-dc/2015/07/22/fefe1da6-3086-11e5-8f36-18d1d501920d_story.html), had a particularly big week. The machine that had been digging four-and-a-half miles beneath the Anacostia River tunnel system for the past two years finished its work and resurfaced. This revolutionary project is testimony to the infrastructure wonders that can be accomplished with increased investment and ingenuity. Ultimately, without a long-term funding solution for the Highway Trust Fund, we will not be able to fully modernize our infrastructure. Take a few minutes to urge the Senate to work as quickly as possible to agree on a long-term funding solution. You can write your Senators a [letter ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)or [call ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612)their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund ](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/)by the July 31 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=It%E2%80%99s%20the%20Final%20Countdown&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [#FixTheTrustFund: Senate Dodging Potholes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fixthetrustfund-senate-dodging-potholes/) **Published:** July 27, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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projects through mid-December to avoid the July 31 legislative deadline. While this would divert a summer construction catastrophe, delaying Congressional agreement on a multi-year path forward is not an ideal option because short-term extensions make it difficult to plan and build multi-year transportation projects. This week the U.S. Senate is attempting to complete work on a bipartisan, long-term bill and get it over to the House for their consideration before July 31. Over the weekend, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) managed to steer the bill away from legislative potholes that threatened to slow passage of the bill. The Senate defeated an amendment to the transportation bill that would have repealed Obamacare and voted to debate reauthorization of the Export-Import (Ex-Im) Bank and possibly attach it to the six-year highway & transit bill. Tonight we expect a final vote on attaching Ex-Im to the bill (which many anticipate will be approved) followed by a vote to end debate on the transportation bill and move towards final passage of the legislation by mid-week. The Senate bill: - Provides six years of policy reforms and contract authority for highways and transit programs, thus ending the cycle of short-term, multi-month program extensions; - Provides three years of dedicated revenue to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) so states can deliver more long-term projects; - Increases funding levels for highway, transit and passenger rail programs in order to reduce our nation’s maintenance and construction backlog; - Provides for a new national dedicated freight program to improve goods movement; and - Contains bipartisan permitting reforms that would set deadlines for project decisions, increase transparency and reduce litigation delays. Please take a moment today to urge your members of Congress to approve this legislation before the July 31 deadline and allow the nation’s transportation infrastructure programs to create jobs and grow the economy in the coming years. Here’s how you can help: - **Contact your members of Congress via letter or phone call:** Send your legislators a [quick note](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=104833) or [call them](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?1&engagementId=107612) and urge their immediate support! - **Communicate with your members of Congress via social media:** Most members of Congress have Facebook and Twitter pages. In addition to calling or writing a letter, urge them to #FixTheTrustFund on social media. - **Ask others to take action:** Use the text in this blog to Send your friends, family, and coworkers an email asking them to contact their members of Congress. Don’t forget to add a sentence or two about why passage of a long-term transportation bill is important to you. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23FixTheTrustFund%3A%20Senate%20Dodging%20Potholes&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fcb2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=%23FixTheTrustFund%3A%20Senate%20Dodging%20Potholes "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=%23FixTheTrustFund%3A%20Senate%20Dodging%20Potholes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, infrastructure, senate --- ### [#GameChangers Trend – Ridesharing And Transit Apps](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers-trend-ridesharing-and-transit-apps/) **Published:** July 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23GameChangers%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Ridesharing%20And%20Transit%20Apps&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Traffic jams and project backlogs aren’t problems that will be going away any time soon as the [Highway Trust Fund ](http://highwaytrustfund.com/)is once again headed towards insolvency. However, in spite of a lack of federal support for better transportation networks, some innovations are propelling transportation into new areas and changing the game as we know it. The prolific growth of rideshare services as well as the accompanying user apps are revolutionizing the transport industry. Rideshare platforms, like Uber, Lyft, Sidecar, and others, are connecting riders to drivers through new technology platforms. Perhaps more importantly, cities and states are forming productive partnerships with these services for data-sharing which could shape the future of transportation. Here are two #GameChangers that are worth knowing: [*Crowd-sourcing traffic app aids transportation agencies*](http://ascegamechangers.org/26/crowd-sourcing-traffic-app-aids-transportation-agencies) Waze is rapidly gaining popularity as a navigation and “traffic avoidance” app, using real-time traffic and construction information to recommend the fastest route to your destination. Waze works using a crowd-sourcing functionality, meaning that it depends on users to report and verify traffic incidents and other scenarios that could slow down your trip. There are side benefits to this data-rich app for local and state transportation agencies, and Waze has begun no-cost data-sharing agreements with at least 30 public sector partners. Waze offers anonymous traffic data via a live feed in exchange for information from the agencies such as construction closures that will improve the accuracy of their app information for travelers. Local transportation agencies in Los Angeles are getting creative with the uses for the data, including using the app to report and respond more rapidly to potholes and rerouting buses based on real-time information. [*Uber Partners to Help Cities – Boston, MA*](http://ascegamechangers.org/115/uber-partners-to-help-cities) Uber has proliferated across U.S. cities, dispatching cars owned and operated by practically anyone. Waze Connected citizens Program is increasingly gaining popularity as the “traffic avoidance app” that provide live feed of traffic incidents and road closures with drivers and government partners. Uber’s technology reduce traffic congestion, as an immediate transportation option with a GPS installed map on every app. Not only that, Uber’s Zip Code Tabulation Area (ZCTA) keeps track the traffic flows in the city with traffic volume counts and the speed of traffic. On second week of January, 2015, Uber announced the first of its kind partnership with the city of Boston to provide traffic data from dates and times of trips, zip codes, distance traveled and trip’s duration. Boston is planning to use this information to manage traffic congestion, evaluate the impact of incidents, and zone changes to parking spots. The city of Los Angeles are partnering up with Waze Connected Citizens Program, and will be using its crowd-sourcing functionality to respond immediately to live road conditions. The cities’ data-sharing partnership with transportation applications will commit to traffic planning and congestion reduction. *Every day, new Infrastructure #GameChangers are changing how we build and use infrastructure. ASCE collected these game changing trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure into an interactive, web-based report* at ASCEGameChangers.org*. Find out more [here](http://ascegamechangers.org/), share these trends on social media using #GameChangers, or [submit ](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit)your own \#GameChangers project!* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23GameChangers%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Ridesharing%20And%20Transit%20Apps&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FGC-Squares-and-Title-Logo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=%23GameChangers%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Ridesharing%20And%20Transit%20Apps "Share on 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Progress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/despite-senate-transportation-action-house-stymies-progress/) **Published:** July 30, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Despite%20Senate%20Transportation%20Action%2C%20House%20Stymies%20Progress&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F07%2Finhofe-boxer-300x202.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Despite%20Senate%20Transportation%20Action%2C%20House%20Stymies%20Progress "Share on 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approving the DRIVE ActDuring the last two months, the Senate made good use of its time to craft a multi-year surface transportation bill with an increase in funding. As is often the way for Congress, it still came down to the wire. For over a week, the U.S. Senate has been in a mad dash to complete its work on a multi-year surface transportation bill before the looming July 31 legislative deadline hits. With the help of ASCE members, fellow coalition members including Associated General Contractors, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, many other groups, and the public, the Senate was successful in doing so – with even a little bit of time to spare. Today the Senate delivered to the House for consideration a six-year, $350 billion road, bridge and transit policy bill that provides three-years of dedicated funding and boosts current investment levels. The only problem? The House is not in session to take it up and pass it before the Friday deadline. In the Congressional equivalent of ding-dong-ditch, yesterday the House passed and sent to the Senate a three-month program extension just as House members left town for August recess, which meant the Senate had no option but to pass the three-month extension in order to avoid a program shutdown on July 31. So in the end the Senate was successful in doing its work, but was unable to get their effort signed into law by the July 31 deadline because the House left town early and refused to take it up. The Senate bill’s funding increases for highway and transit are a step in right direction, but still far below the investment levels America needs to address its aging roads, bridges, and transit systems. However, when compared to the horrible status-quo that the federal program finds itself in – a seemingly endless cycle of short-term extensions combined with a continued deterioration of the purchasing power of transportation dollars – the Senate bill was the most promising legislation proposed during the two-month extension. “In the next three months, ASCE urges the House and Senate to work through their policy differences and continue the legacy of the Highway Trust Fund,” said Tom Smith, ASCE’s executive director. “This short-term extension needs to be the last and we believe it can be, so long as Congress moves the nation forward by working together in a bipartisan way to finish their work on improving America’s surface transportation infrastructure.” Of note the Senate bill: • Provides six years of policy reforms and contract authority for highways and transit programs, thus ending the cycle of short-term, multi-month program extensions; • Provides three years of dedicated revenue to the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) so states can deliver more long-term projects; • Increases funding levels for both highway, transit and passenger rail programs in order to reduce our nation’s maintenance and construction backlog; • Provides for a new national dedicated freight program to improve goods movement; • Contains bipartisan permitting reforms that would set deadlines for project decisions, increase transparency and reduce litigation delays; and • Contains a federal pilot program for future user-fee revenue generating systems like those currently being tested in some states regarding vehicle miles traveled (VMT). While the summer legislative battle is over and victory was confined to the U.S. Senate, transportation advocates will take the August break and recharge our batteries to be ready for the final fall push when Congress is back in September. Please take a moment to see how your Senator [voted ](http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=114&session=1&vote=00260 "Final vote on DRIVE Act")and thank him/her on their leadership this July. We will need their support again soon enough once a final House and Senate compromise comes together. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Despite%20Senate%20Transportation%20Action%2C%20House%20Stymies%20Progress&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, infrastructure, roads, senate, surface transportation, transit, transportation --- ### [The House hits snooze for long-term bill until October](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-house-hits-snooze-for-long-term-bill-until-october/) **Published:** July 31, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20House%20hits%20snooze%20for%20long-term%20bill%20until%20October&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With July wrapping up, the House throwing in the towel and settling for another three-month extension as the Senate passing the DRIVE Act, hopes for a long-term highway funding solution are pushed back again. Before heading home for August recess the House and Senate passed another [short-term patch ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/249818-senate-sends-three-month-highway-bill-to-obama)that will provide $8 billion of funding to keep the Highway Trust Fund afloat a bit long, with program authorization set to expire on October 29th. Meanwhile, the [Senate ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/249818-senate-sends-three-month-highway-bill-to-obama)approved the [DRIVE Act](http://www.bdtonline.com/news/u-s-senate-passes-six-year-highway-bill-the-drive/article_53e2ee42-372a-11e5-9e17-8bf9348c13f6.html), a six-year surface transportation bill. It is the first long-term bill in a long time, which gives the transportation community something to celebrate. However, the DRIVE Act does not fully meet the[ investment needs](http://www.asce.org/failure_to_act_economic_studies/) of our nation’s aging infrastructure. With a bill now passed by the upper chamber, it’s up to the House to make this most recent short-term extension the last, and there are [plenty of reasons to get it done](http://journal.ijreview.com/2015/07/245467-nine-reasons-why-congress-needs-to-fix-the-highway-trust-fund/). Among them, we are losing time and money because of the poor condition of our transportation network and it’s a drag on the economy. Years of cutbacks in federal funding and the uncertainty of long-term funding because of the frequency of short-term patches are [hindering states ability](http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/states-struggle-needed-transportation-fixes-years-cutbacks/) to make transportation improvements. States including [Iowa](http://www.siouxlandmatters.com/story/d/story/iowa-dot-official-says-highway-funding-debate-coul/40322/UaC6hu2HWkOT__FHE9ksXg), [Ohio ](http://wdtn.com/2015/07/27/dayton-area-losing-construction-jobs/)and others are struggling to fund much-needed construction projects because of the lack of certainty for a federal program. [Several states have taken measures](http://wvpublic.org/post/states-finding-solutions-congress-debates-highways-funds) to provide for their own transportation funding needs, including [Washington](http://www.king5.com/story/money/consumer/2015/07/29/gas-tax-increase-transportation/30823249/), which just increased its gas tax by seven cents, South Dakota, Oregon, North Carolina and West Virginia, but the states cannot go it alone. Federal funding for the Highway Trust Fund would not only serve to improve much-needed infrastructure investments, but would pave the way for more innovative infrastructure, as featured in ASCE’s [*\#GameChangers*](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report. Therefore it is essential that Congress work diligently in the next three months to find a long-term funding solution. “In the next three months, ASCE urges the House and Senate to work through their policy differences and continue the legacy of the Highway Trust Fund,” said Tom Smith, ASCE’s executive director. “This short-term extension needs to be the last and we believe it can be, so long as Congress moves the nation forward by working together in a bipartisan way to finish their work on improving America’s surface transportation infrastructure.” You can write your representative a [letter ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)or [call ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612)their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) by the Oct 29 deadline. And [say thank you ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=122384)to the 65 Senators who voted yes. 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dollars rebuilding infrastructure following natural disasters. As we approach the 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which cost the federal government $98 billion, and three-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, which cost $41 billion, federal agencies are beginning to rethink the way government responds to disaster. Prompted in part by Superstorm Sandy, in 2013 Congress passed the $49 billion Disaster Relief Appropriations Act (Public Law 113-2). The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) received $16 billion in Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) from the Act. Congress directed the funds to be used in the most “impacted and distressed areas” that experienced a qualifying natural disaster from 2011-2013. In an attempt to break free from the federal aid cycle of rebuilding back the same way, HUD decided to make $1 billion of the grant money available through a competitive grant process called the National Disaster Resilience Competition (NDRC). While all government grants are competitive, HUD raised the stakes by teaming up with the Rockefeller Foundation to provide teams applying for a piece of the $1 billion with resources to bolster the strength of their application. The Rockefeller Foundation has a mission to help communities build more resilient and they saw the HUD competition as a great platform and partner in the federal government. Resilience—Rockefeller argues—helps communities better prepare for, respond to and transform from disruption. The Foundation takes a much broader view of resilience than that of the traditional civil engineer who typically associates the term with stronger and longer lasting infrastructure—often developed through a rigorous full life cycle cost analysis. Through the NDRC, HUD and Rockefeller are seeking to make grants available for projects that showcase resilience not only via long lasting adaptable infrastructure, but also in jobs training programs, renewable energy projects, environmental stewardess and broader socially inclusive benefit to cost ratios. To ensure grant applicants put forth the best projects and programs possible for HUD funding, Rockefeller Foundation is providing capacity-building opportunities for the teams. NDRC is split into two phases; the first phase required a team or “jurisdiction” to submit a concept of resiliency in their community (jurisdictions consisted of states, counties/parishes and cities). In July HUD announced 40 jurisdictions had been selected to move to Phase II. In this phase, teams will submit specific projects or programs for funding to HUD. To help teams prepare strong applications, Rockefeller Foundation organized two workshops in the form of “resiliency academies” and highly encouraged teams to take advantage of the nearly 100 subject matter experts Rockefeller was providing. ASCE was invited to provide expertise at both resilience academies Rockefeller held in July. Amazingly all 40 jurisdictions spent the time and resources to send representatives to the Denver or Chicago academies to meet with economists, community leaders, environmental scientists, engineers and designers to discuss their project and program in detail and provide critical feedback to maximize and leverage the effectiveness of each idea. Teams have until October to put together an application that wows a group of federal agency panelists who will be looking for projects or programs that are innovative, resilient and meet the needs of a diverse group of stakeholders in the community. The minimum grant available is $1 million; the maximum is $500 million. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Provides%20Expertise%20at%20Rockefeller%20Foundation%20Resilience%20Academies&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, levees, natural disasters, resilience --- ### [#GameChangers Trend – Rapid Bridge Replacement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers-trend-rapid-bridge-replacement/) **Published:** August 5, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In total, one in nine of the nation’s bridges are rated as structurally deficient. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) estimates that to eliminate the nation’s bridge deficient backlog by 2028, we would need to invest $20.5 billion annually, while only $12.8 billion is being spent currently. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has embarked on the challenge to bundle similar bridge projects together to capitalize on economies of scale to achieve cost saving and quicker construction periods. *Here is the game changer for this week.* *Bundle and Save on Bridges – Harrisburg, PA* PennDOT has embarked on an ambitious $899 million Rapid Bridge Replacement Project with construction to begin the summer of 2015 on 558 bridges across the state. The final list of 558 bridges was determined after screening more than 2,000 bridges. The private sector team will manage the bridges’ design, construction and maintenance for 25 years after construction under a public-private partnership (P3) contract. Under the agreement, all 558 bridges must be replaced within 36 months. PennDOT will maintain ownership of the bridges. The P3 contract will allow PennDOT to deliver high-quality bridges and replace the existing bridges more quickly than under the agency’s traditional procurement model. In addition, the project will minimize the impact on motorists during construction. *Every day, new Infrastructure #GameChangers are changing how we build and use infrastructure. ASCE collected these game changing trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure into an interactive, web-based report* at ASCEGameChangers.org*. Find out more [here](http://ascegamechangers.org/), share these trends on social media using #GameChangers, or [submit ](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit)your own \#GameChangers project!* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23GameChangers%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Rapid%20Bridge%20Replacement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FPA_bridge.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=%23GameChangers%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Rapid%20Bridge%20Replacement "Share on 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of our nation’s aging infrastructure are gaining more attention from the media and states. Just this week, a [subway train derailed](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2015/08/06/derailment-of-non-passenger-metro-train-delays-on-blue-orange-and-silver-lines/) in Washington, D.C., causing [extreme delays](http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2015/08/06/derailment-of-non-passenger-metro-train-delays-on-blue-orange-and-silver-lines/) for daily commuters. In response to the ubiquity of worn out infrastructure, the U.S. Department of Transportation launched an [Instagram and Twitter campaign](https://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/show-us-your-infrawear), asking Americans to submit photos of worn-out infrastructure in their local communities with the hashtag #ShowUsYourInfraWear. The goal is to highlight the most pressing infrastructure needs that inconvenience the American public and they could be fixed if there were a long-term surface transportation bill. On a legislative note, Senator Tom Carper from Delaware introduced a [bill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/250411-senate-bill-would-nearly-double-the-gas-tax)—believed to be the first-ever to use a hashtag in the bill title. This bill would incrementally increase the gas tax over the next four years, resulting in a 16-cents-per-gallon increase by 2020 that would then be tied to inflation. “At a time when gas prices are some of the lowest we’ve seen in recent memory, we should be willing to make the hard choice to raise the federal gas tax,” Carper said, in regards to the need to produce long-term funding to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). With long-term funding, not only would infrastructure needs be met, but the opportunity to invest in infrastructure projects, as identified in [*\#GameChangers,*](http://ascegamechangers.org/) would arise. This past Thursday was the 101st [anniversary of the traffic light](http://time.com/3985080/when-was-the-first-traffic-light-installed/), which stood as one of the original game changers of our transportation world. If we want to see more innovations continue to improve our society, we need to be willing to make the investment. It is essential that Congress work diligently in the next three months to find a long-term funding solution for surface transportation. You can write your representative a [letter](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) or [call ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612)their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) by the Oct 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=USDOT%20to%20Public%3A%20%23ShowUsYourInfraWear&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** DOT, gamechangers, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [Congress Weighs In on Global Road Safety](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-weighs-in-on-global-road-safety/) **Published:** August 11, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")[![#SaveKidsLives](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/SKL-Final-Logo-2-1024x232.jpg)](http://www.savekidslives2015.org/) Before leaving D.C. for the Congressional August recess, members of both the [House](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/House-Letter-to-World-Bank-President-on-Global-Road-Safety-150724.pdf) and [Senate](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/senate-3-star-letter-with-signatures-150731.pdf) sent letters to the World Bank urging a stronger bank lending policy focused on improving global road safety. The World Bank plays a preeminent role in financing road construction in developing countries and therefore is in a unique position to have tremendous influence and guide improvements in road safety. Because the World Bank funds infrastructure projects with assistance from the United States, members of Congress were compelled to send a message to the World Bank requesting that the bank establish a minimum safety design and construction standard for the road projects it funds. Each year, more than 1.3 million people are killed in road crashes and 90 percent of these deaths occur in developing countries. A large percentage of the victims are children. The rate of road crashes has been rising quickly and the World Health Organization expects road traffic injuries to overtake HIV/AIDS as a leading cause of death by the year 2030. Raising global road safety standards would save thousands of lives, reduce traffic-related accidents, and enhance economic growth in developing countries. The standard that the members of Congress were highlighting is one where roads are rated from one to five stars in terms of road safety for each category of road users, including vehicle occupants, pedestrians, and bicyclists. ASCE is a member of the 3-Star Coalition, a broad [group](http://www.fundforglobalhealth.org/join-the-3-star-coalition/#members "3-Star members") of transportation and public health stakeholders that advocates for roads in developing countries to be built to a minimum three-star safety standard for all road users. Moving to a three-star minimum safety standard will save lives, avert crippling injuries, and provide substantial economic returns. The 3-Star coalition views safer road construction as part of a comprehensive traffic safety approach that also includes improved law enforcement, increased public education, and strong national leadership on road safety. These members of Congress – Reps. Emmer (R-MN) and Serrano (D-NY), and Sens. Purdue (R-GA) and Markey (D-MA) – along with 39 House colleagues and six Senate colleagues, should be commended for their commitment to global road safety. Let’s hope that upon receiving the message that the World Bank feels compelled to act soon to implement more accountable safety standards for the projects that it helps fund. You can help urge greater attention on global road safety by using the social media hashtag, #SaveKidsLives. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Legislators%20Tell%20Their%20Peers%20It%20is%20Possible%20to%20Raise%20Gas%20Tax%2C%20and%20Give%20them%20Guidance%20on%20How%20to%20Do%20It&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")State legislators from around the country were in Seattle last week for the [annual National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) Legislative Summit.](http://www.ncsl.org/meetings-training/legislative-summit-15.aspx) Approximately 5,000 state legislators, legislative staffers, federal officials and others attended the meeting to gain invaluable knowledge from experts and fellow legislators to take back to their respective states. Attendees participated in an array of policy-producing committee meetings, issue forums and deep-dive sessions. Transportation funding remains a hot topic for state lawmakers, and the conference featured a “deep-dive” session entitled “Filling Up the Tank: Funding Transportation,” which provided legislators a forum to discuss developing sound transportation plans in their states that create sustainable revenue, prepare for the future and meet immediate needs. Rep. Judy Clibborn, a Democrat who chairs the state’s House Transportation Committee and Senator Mike Vehle, a Republican from South Dakota who has been a leader on transportation issues as well, gave a joint presentation on how their respective states were able to pass gas tax increases. The lawmakers identified some common steps that need to be taken to generate support for, and achieve passage of major transportation funding legislation. Those included: - Generate bipartisan support, specifically through the work of a legislative task force made up of members of both parties. - Build a coalition of allied interest groups including the business community. - Support from the Governor and State Department of Transportation is vital. - Determine the state’s financial need, and set goals before discussing increasing taxes. - Take the discussions on the road – hold meetings around the state to discuss the need for transportation investment. - Flexibility and compromise also important. In recent years, states have taken the lead in addressing transportation needs. And, it is clear through sessions like the one at NCSL last week, they will continue to do so. 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no more field goals!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-needs-a-touchdown-no-more-field-goals/) **Published:** August 14, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21 "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&description=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21 "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Football season has unofficially launched, and hopefully from now on punts will remain on the field and outside of Congress. While Congress is back home for summer recess, many states are expressing their opinions about the lack of federal funding as more infrastructure needs rise to the surface. In [Nebraska](http://journalstar.com/news/opinion/editorial/columnists/local-view-working-together-to-improve-our-nation-s-transportation/article_8d0be543-e81a-5ab4-ae6d-5b4ca3c0b7c9.html), Senator Deb Fischer and Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx hosted an event focused on transportation projects in the states. The secretary expressed encouragement that the Senate passed a long-term funding bill at the end of July, while still pressed for the need of more funding. In order to ensure that state projects continue, Nebraska’s Department of Roads established a [yearlong agreement](http://journalstar.com/news/opinion/editorial/columnists/local-view-working-together-to-improve-our-nation-s-transportation/article_8d0be543-e81a-5ab4-ae6d-5b4ca3c0b7c9.html) with the Federal Highway Administration that “will allow Nebraska to initiate maintenance and rehabilitation projects more easily throughout the 100,000 miles of roads and 15,500 bridges that cross the state.” Nebraska isn’t the only state expressing frustration with of the uncertainty of federal transportation funding. [Pennsylvania](http://www.mcall.com/opinion/yourview/mc-highway-trust-fund-congress-caperilla-0812-20150811-story.html), the state with the highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the country, is likewise struggling to invest in much-needed projects. [Wyomin](http://trib.com/hartpence-feds-are-leaving-our-roads-in-a-lurch/article_97a4db94-43ce-5db1-8491-226a373b09c3.html)g is unable to carry out many of their projects without more federal funds, as they receive 66 percent of their capital program budget from the federal government. The [Mississippi Bridge is in need of upgrades](http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/metro/mississippi-river-bridge-on-state-s-critical-list-but-it/article_6f2ddcb9-75d2-5b66-b31e-f82543ecdb45.html), but the project is sitting on the sidelines because while Illinois is ready to start the project, Missouri cannot contribute its half of the funds. Bloomberg View also published an editorial this week pleading Congress to pass a long-term bill with reliable funding, and endorses raising the federal gas tax to match inflation. While dwindling federal transportation funding stalls progress on state highway projects, highways are not the only category of infrastructure that needs federal funds. In [Tennessee](http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2015/aug/12/locked-uprising-costs-shrinking-use-undermine/319414/), the replacement lock for the Chickamauga Dam is in limbo because it has not been able to get funding fast enough to get the project completed. This is just one of many examples of the importance of the federal role in infrastructure investment. While your U.S. Representative is back in the district, take a few minutes to send a [letter ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)or [call ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612)their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) by the Oct 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20needs%20a%20touchdown%3B%20no%20more%20field%20goals%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [#GameChanger Trend – Next Generation Pavement](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/game-changer-trend-next-generation-pavement/) **Published:** August 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23GameChanger%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Next%20Generation%20Pavement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The United States has more than two million miles of paved roads. Maintenance is a continual issue for local and state transportation agencies, but new pavements being developed are more sustainable, less costly, and yield other benefits such as capturing stormwater runoff. There are several innovative pavement types that are gaining traction, including: - Porous pavements: Porous pavements allow stormwater to percolate through the pavement and enter the soil below. Porous pavements work by allowing streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and other typically impervious covers to retain their natural infiltration capacity. In many instances porous pavements can be used in place of conventional asphalt or concrete in an ultra-urban environment. They are generally not suited for areas with high traffic volumes or loads. - Rubberized asphalt: Waste materials like rubber tires are being incorporated into pavement products. - Warm-mix asphalt: A recent survey found that almost a third of all asphalt produced during the 2013 construction season was produced using warm-mix asphalt technologies, compared to less than five percent in 2009. Here are your game changers for this week! *Roads Built from Tires – Huntington Beach, California* California generates more than 40 million scrap tires every year. While nearly 75 percent of used tires are recycled, the rest still end up in landfills or illegal dumps. Ground tire rubber can be blended with asphalt to beneficially modify the properties of the asphalt in highway construction. Through the department’s Green Roads program, CalRecycle is reducing the amount of tires disposed in California’s landfills by putting waste tires to new use as rubberized asphalt concrete. The City of Huntington Beach, California used grant funding from the program to improve six miles of arterial streets that were riddled with potholes, sunken areas, and crumbling pavement. The rubberized asphalt is expected to extend the lifespan of the pavement by an additional 10 to 20 years. *Recycling Pavement – Staunton, VA* On a four-mile section of Virginia’s I-81, a major north-south freight corridor, the pavement was 43 years old, well past its intended design life, and heavier volumes of truck traffic were taking a toll. The Virginia Department of Transportation moved forward with a $10 million project that reused existing materials from the underlying road structure, while the driving surface received a new overlay of asphalt. The road construction method was not only environmentally sustainable — it reduced construction time by about two-thirds and saved Virginia millions, compared to the cost of conventional reconstruction. Traditional pavement construction would have required building another travel lane and would have taken one to two years to complete. By using in-place recycling, the project time was cut to seven months, resulting in significant cost savings, and reduced traffic disruptions. *Alleys that Drink Stormwater Runoff – Boston, Massachusetts* The city of Boston recently completed a new 508-square-foot “porous alley” that absorbs stormwater and filters it into the ground, rather than allowing it to make its way into the sewer system where it has to be treated. Construction of the alley is part of a larger effort to boost the quality of water in the rivers surrounding Boston. Like many other localities, the Boston Water and Sewer Commission had to pay a fine for violating the Clean Water Act and take steps to minimize pollutants going into the waters. The porous surfaces also help keep ground water at optimal levels in neighborhoods such as the South End, where many buildings were constructed on top of wood pilings, which can rot if exposed to open air. The nearby town of Arlington, Massachusetts, also used porous pavement for a project on Hurd Field to protect the water quality of adjacent Mill Brook. *Every day, new Infrastructure #GameChangers are changing how we build and use infrastructure. ASCE collected these game changing trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure into an interactive, web-based report* at ASCEGameChangers.org*. Find out more [here](http://ascegamechangers.org/), share these trends on social media using #GameChangers, or [submit ](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit)your own \#GameChangers project!* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23GameChanger%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Next%20Generation%20Pavement&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F02%2Fgc-transportation-recycling-pavement.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=%23GameChanger%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Next%20Generation%20Pavement "Share on 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Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-diy-to-fix-infrastructure/) **Published:** August 21, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=States%20DIY%20to%20Fix%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F6621444233_d109d69b26_z1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=States%20DIY%20to%20Fix%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=States%20DIY%20to%20Fix%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In these last weeks of August, while Congress is on recess, there has been a great deal of dialogue and action among states regarding their need to fund their local transportation needs. This week, [AP](http://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2015/08/17/states-raising-taxes-fees-and-debt-to-pay-for-road-repairs) released an article expressing states’ reactions to the lack of federal funding for state transportation projects. Several states are taking the initiative to raise billions of dollars through higher fuel taxes, vehicle fees, and bonds to repair aging bridges and roads that will relieve traffic congestion. According to the AP, at least half of our states have now passed transportation funding measures since 2013. “I don’t know of a state that’s not having the conversation about raising revenue for transportation,” said Iowa Transportation Director Paul Trombino III. In 2015 alone, [14 states](http://www.turnto23.com/decodedc/states-are-doing-what-congress-wont-on-the-gas-tax) have raised their gas taxes to fund their state infrastructure projects, and others are considering similar measures. In addition to legislative action, states are beginning to take more creative approaches to funding their infrastructure. In Michigan, some residents are [taking matters into their own hands ](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/wayne/2015/08/03/potholes-patch-hamtramck/30995401/)and have raised more than $4,400 filling potholes themselves. Other initiatives to make up for lacking federal funds include [House Bill 4608,](http://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/as-congress-idles-south-dakota-nebraska-among-many-states-raising/article_a9893b6d-0d9f-525d-bb2c-9d74fa3db3f6.html) which would move $60 million from Indian Gaming Compact into the Michigan Transportation Fund. While Michigan serves as a good example of frustrated citizens working together to do whatever is necessary to improve their roads, it’s not the only state that is fed up with infrastructure conditions. [Tennessee](http://www.timesnews.net/article/9091022/haslam-makes-case-for-state-transportation-needs), [California](http://www.desertsun.com/story/news/2015/08/20/bridges-roads-decay-lawmakers-debate-dollars/32053823/) and [others](http://rapidcityjournal.com/news/local/as-congress-idles-south-dakota-nebraska-among-many-states-raising/article_a9893b6d-0d9f-525d-bb2c-9d74fa3db3f6.html) are also taking measures to raise money for roads. And roads are not the only issue that our drivers are facing—as [water main breaks ](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/wayne/2015/08/19/8-water-main-breaks-reported-redford-township/32017951/)continue to erupt throughout our major [cities ](http://www.wkow.com/story/29786667/2015/08/14/cars-submerged-after-water-main-break-in-madison)and [suburbs](http://legacy.wusa9.com/story/news/traffic/2015/08/19/water-main-break-closes-goldsboro-rd/31973909/). In order to see improvement, it is essential that Congress work diligently in the next three months to find a long-term funding solution for surface transportation. You can write your representative a [letter ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)or [call ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612)their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund ](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/)by the Oct 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=States%20DIY%20to%20Fix%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund --- ### [Summer days driftin’ away, infrastructure needs remain](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/summer-days-driftin-away-infrastructure-needs-remain/) **Published:** August 28, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Summer%20days%20driftin%E2%80%99%20away%2C%20infrastructure%20needs%20remain&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This weekend’s 10-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina is an enduring reminder of the importance of infrastructure, and the need for increased investment to properly maintain it. As the anniversary neared, many [media outlets ](http://www.wired.com/2015/08/no-one-ready-next-katrina/)recounted the damages of Katrina in light of the need for a sound flood protection plan in many coastal cities. ASCE’s [Managing Flood Risk Report ](http://ascelibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.1061/9780784478585)reveals that there is still no cohesive vision of how the nation should organize or coordinate to reduce flood risk. Another example of the need for increased investment is Texas A&M’s Transportation Institute [2015 Mobility Scorecard](http://mobility.tamu.edu/ums/), revealing that congestion rates reached a new record high. The [mobility scorecard report](http://mobility.tamu.edu/ums/) unveils this year’s traffic congestion by region, showing the tremendous need for improvement. According to the report, travel delays due to traffic congestion in 2014 were the worst in three decades, with Washington, D.C. topping the list. The report says that nationwide, congestion kept travelers stuck in their cars for nearly 7 billion extra hours last year, or 42 hours per rush-hour commuter. This time stuck in traffic is costing us money, an estimated $160 billion in lost time, wasted fuel, and additional vehicle repairs, an average of $960 per commuter. While traffic is still an issue, our travel woes do not compare with those before the interstate highway system was created. Interestingly enough, the [story ](http://www.slate.com/blogs/atlas_obscura/2015/08/24/in_1919_president_eisenhower_took_a_disasterous_road_trip_that_led_to_his.html)behind Eisenhower’s inspiration for an interstate highway system came about as a result of a 62-day cross-country trip he took in 1919 with a military convoy, where crossing mountains, plains and deserts made the trip quite a frustrating and even dangerous undertaking. By the end of the trip, the official observer [reported later](http://www.eisenhower.archives.gov/research/online_documents/1919_convoy/report_Jackson_to_Moody.pdf), “the officers of the Convoy were thoroughly convinced that all transcontinental highways should be construed and maintained by the Federal Government.” Eisenhower’s experience with the convoy’s helped persuade legislators to pass the Townsend Highway Bill, which created the first Federal Highway Commission. With such a rich history, and strong correlation between our highways, economy and welfare of the people, it is crucial that Congress #FixTheTrustFund by the Oct. 29 deadline—two months from now. You can write your representative a [letter ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)or [call](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/make-a-call?0&engagementId=107612) their office and share the message to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) by the Oct 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Summer%20days%20driftin%E2%80%99%20away%2C%20infrastructure%20needs%20remain&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, Eisenhower, traffic --- ### [#Game Changer Trend – Accelerated Bridge Construction](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/game-changer-trend-accelerated-bridge-construction/) **Published:** September 2, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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feeling of frustration when traffic slows to a crawl as you see the telltale signs of traffic cones and reduced lanes up ahead. Large bridge replacement or rehabilitation projects mean that disruptive construction zones can last months into years. Accelerated bridge construction is a design and construction method that uses prefabricated materials and other strategies to minimize traffic disruptions and reduce onsite construction time. As many components of the bridge as possible are constructed ahead of time so that road closures are required only when moving the elements into place. For projects that do not require custom engineering, movable bridges and accelerated bridge construction can greatly decrease construction disruptions without sacrificing quality. Standardized approaches streamline the activities required to get bridge replacement systems designed and built in less time -sometimes installed in hours or days, rather than weeks or months. *Keep the Work Off the Road – Kittery, Maine* The Kittery Route 1 Overpass bridge was over 70 years old and located in a tourist destination area. Using accelerated bridge construction saved the Maine DOT in construction costs and shaved significant time off the project. The precast concrete elements were delivered on time, and the town of Kittery was pleased with the results. The closure of Route 1 lasted less than a month, and the closure of Route 236 lasted only 11 hours. Overall, it took less than a year between when the project was advertised and final construction was complete. *Slide Into Place – Phoenix, Arizona* In the Gila River Indian Community south of Phoenix, they employed a “bridge slide,” the first of its kind in Arizona, to place the pre-manufactured sections of bridge in position. It was done with minimal traffic disruptions and shrunk the construction period from four months to nine days. The previous 140-foot bridge was built in 1961 and the location sits over a riverbed, which had been known for water spilling over the bridge decks during flood events. During construction, the old structure remained open to traffic almost the entire time. At the final stage of the project, the old structure was demolished and two girders and bridge decks were slid together to form the new bridge. *Jointless Construction* – *Defiance, Ohio* The Federal Highway Administration worked with officials in Defiance County, Ohio, on a form of accelerated bridge construction that uses geosynthetic-reinforced soil. Rather than drilling a deep foundation, the reinforced soil method builds up the substructure in a faster, simpler way, described as akin to building a layer cake. For this type of bridge, there is a smooth transition from the roadway to the superstructure, resulting in a jointless bridge system. With this approach, the County’s first project, the Bowman Road Bridge, was built in just six weeks saving about 25 percent compared to their conventional bridge construction. They not only succeeded in building a bridge for less money and time, but the County went on to rebuild 25 additional bridges in this same manner. *Every day, new Infrastructure #GameChangers are changing how we build and use infrastructure. ASCE collected these game changing trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure into an interactive, web-based report* at ASCEGameChangers.org*. Find out more [here](http://ascegamechangers.org/), share these trends on social media using #GameChangers, or [submit ](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit)your own \#GameChangers project!* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=%23Game%20Changer%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Accelerated%20Bridge%20Construction&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=%23Game%20Changer%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Accelerated%20Bridge%20Construction "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=%23Game%20Changer%20Trend%20%E2%80%93%20Accelerated%20Bridge%20Construction&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Arizona, Maine, Ohio, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** accelerated bridge construction, Arizona, game changers, Maine, Ohio --- ### [Congress’ Infrastructure To Do List for Fall](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-infrastructure-to-do-list-for-fall/) **Published:** September 3, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20To%20Do%20List%20for%20Fall&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fcb2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20To%20Do%20List%20for%20Fall "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20To%20Do%20List%20for%20Fall&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Summer comes to an end next week as Congress returns to the Capitol after a five-week recess. Deadlines will be the theme this fall, with the first being the Oct. 1 funding deadline to keep the government open. The second important deadline for ASCE is Oct. 29, when MAP-21, the surface transportation bill, expires. With a D+ cumulative GPA, the topic of America’s infrastructure should be at the top of their to-do lists. Congress has several opportunities to address some of the nation’s infrastructure needs in the coming weeks. Here’s what to watch: **1. Transportation** Before the U.S. Senate adjourned for August recess, they passed the [DRIVE Act](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/transportation-and-infrastructure-one-stop-shop), a six-year surface transportation bill. The DRIVE Act would end the current cycle of short-term program extensions and increase federal funding for surface transportation programs. The U.S. House of Representatives has until a new deadline of October 29 to act to pass their own multi-year bill before the current law expires. ASCE has been focused on communicating with House members on the need to act quickly and pass a long-term bill. You can help by [contacting your House members](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) and urging them to #FixTheTrustFund. **2. Appropriations for Federal Infrastructure Programs** So far this year, the House has only passed six of 12 annual appropriations bills and the Senate has not yet passed a single one. There is an Oct. 1 deadline to complete this year’s appropriation. Among the major dilemmas holding up the appropriations process are disagreements over the overall funding amounts for the federal government, policy riders that bog down spending bills and fundamental differences on what level to fund federal environmental, healthcare and military programs. While it’s difficult enough for Congress to fund popular established bipartisan programs like the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving funds (which are facing 23% cuts), newer programs, like the Levee Safety Initiative, have not received any funding since the Water Resources Reform & Development Act (WRRDA) passed. If these programs do not receive appropriations, then the progress made by creating them becomes stagnant and no real progress is made in addressing the infrastructure the legislation aimed to improve. With only 12 days to debate the remaining appropriations bills and take full chamber votes, Congress will resort to passing a short-term extension of federal government programs at the same funding levels as last fiscal year. These patches – also known as continuing resolutions – have become the common fallback solution where such large disagreements – even among members in the same party ­– impede the “regular order” appropriations process from working. **3. STEM and Science** To ensure we have enough engineers to be stewards of our nation’s infrastructure in the future, we need to educate today’s students in STEM. Congress will return with competing legislation to reauthorize the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA); the last version was known as the No Child Left Behind Act, which would make changes to STEM education policies. The House version, known as the Student Success Act (H.R. 5), has been a purely partisan affair from the beginning, and passed the House with no Democratic Support. The Senate version, known as the Every Child Achieves Act of 2015 (S. 1177), is a bipartisan compromise measure which passed that chamber with wide support. The House bill makes significant cuts to educational programs and places no emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. The Senate bill includes a focus on improving learning in the critical STEM subjects. ASCE, as a founding member of the STEM Education Coalition, strongly favors the Senate bill. It remains to be seen if House Republicans will be willing to compromise enough to move the legislation. Also facing the House/Senate divide is legislation to reauthorize the America COMPETES Act, which authorizes most of the nation’s non-medical, civilian research and development programs. The House passed H.R. 1806, the America COMPETES Act Reauthorization, earlier this year along the same partisan divide on their education bill. The House bill has been strongly condemned ASCE and other engineering, scientific, academic, and industry groups for making cuts to several areas including geosciences, as well as altering the National Science Foundation’s time-tested peer review method of awarding grants. The Senate Commerce Committee is meanwhile struggling to reach a bi-partisan compromise. Both pieces of legislation are long overdue and needed going forward, however if past performance is any indication then success is unlikely. This summer the Senate demonstrated that they can make infrastructure legislation a priority by passing the DRIVE Act. Now it’s time for that momentum to carry into the fall. Tell your members of Congress to make infrastructure a priority through the Save America’s Infrastructure phone app for [iPhone](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/save-americas-infrastructure/id989892323?mt=8) and [Android](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.asce.reportcard&hl=en) or [online](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/home). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%E2%80%99%20Infrastructure%20To%20Do%20List%20for%20Fall&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, levees, stem, surface transportation, wrrda --- ### [The High Cost of Underinvestment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-high-cost-of-underinvestment/) **Published:** September 4, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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improve our transportation infrastructure. With Congress back in session on Tuesday, hopefully they take note of the ways our aging transportation network is holding us back. A predicted 35.5 million U.S. residents will travel at least 50 miles away from home over this weekend, according to AAA. While that’s the highest number seen since 2008, [U.S. Travel found in a new survey that the hassles caused by failing surface and air travel infrastructure will keep 4.1 million potential travelers at home](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/252530-study-infrastructure-problems-to-cost-economy-14b-over-labor-day)—costing the economy $1.4 billion in spending. This research again proves that our economy suffers when we do not make the investment in our infrastructure. In [Washington State](http://www.king5.com/story/news/politics/2015/09/01/rep-larsen-hosts-transportation-town-hall--wheels/71548008/), Representative Rick Larson, joined commuters on public transit to see for himself how exasperating the morning commute is. As a senior member on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Larson is a leader in getting his fellow U.S. representatives to pass a long-term transportation bill this fall. Roads, bridges, and transit are not the only sectors of infrastructure that need investment; water infrastructure, including underground pipes and locks, are also in need of modernization. In [Michigan](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2015/08/29/soo-locks-shutdown-expansion/71392210/), the recent shutdowns of one of the Soo Locks—a crucial passageway for nine million metric tons of a freight a month—exemplify how important projects are currently sidelined due to a dearth in funding. During the 20-day period that the 73-year-old MacArthur Lock was closed for repairs by the Army Corps of Engineers, more than 100 vessels — carrying iron ore, coal, grain and more — were delayed at least 166 hours. Out of [Vermont is another story demonstrating](http://digital.vpr.net/post/vermonts-crumbling-underground-water-infrastructure-demands-expensive-repairs) the side effects of underinvestment in underground water infrastructure. The pipes that are failing range between 40 and130 years old, ass all are reaching the end of their useful design lives simultaneously. Jeff Wennberg of Rutland Public Works, responded to these infrastructure needs by pointing to the funding issue, “There’s no problem here with any of this infrastructure that can’t be fixed. It can all be fixed. The question is, who is going to pay for it and how soon?” While infrastructure needs may vary across the nation, the source of funding remains the biggest obstacle. In a recent poll conducted by the Mineta Transportation Institute, [61 percent of U.S. residents would support a 10-cent increase](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/252404-poll-71-percent-would-back-10-cent-gas-tax-hike#.VeXBt4-U70M.twitter) in the 18.4 cents-per-gallon gas tax if it is dedicated to transportation projects. As Congress returns to Washington tasked with finding three more years of funding for the DRIVE Act, and passing the bill through the House, hopefully this poll research will encourage them to find the political will to raise the gas tax as a way to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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Press Club; 9/9/15 - Photo by ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Foxx-Press-Club-631x1024.jpg)](http://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/national-press-club-%E2%80%93-infrastructure-funding-panel)US Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx speaks at the National Press Club 9915 Photo by ASCEIn yet another sign that summer is officially over, members of Congress have returned to Washington, D.C. to conduct their fall business. Greeting them with a clear message was U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Anthony Foxx. “I urge \[Congress\] to look at the needs of their constituents – to focus on results, and not just the tool to drive those results,” Foxx stated in [remarks ](http://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/national-press-club-%E2%80%93-infrastructure-funding-panel)at the National Press Club. The “tool” the Secretary was referring to is the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF), which has teetered on the brink of bankruptcy for many years now. Recently in July, Congress provided an influx of $8 billion in general fund money to boost the ailing HTF. Due to this increased funding USDOT [estimates ](https://www.transportation.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker)that funds will be present in the HTF until at least September 2016 though the HTF will reach insolvency (dip below a $4 billion minimum threshold) at the end of this calendar year. Foxx went on to say that the nation needs to, “use the Highway Trust Fund as the tool it was intended to be to drive outcomes in America.” Also speaking at the event was former Mississippi governor and current lobbyist Haley Barbour and the head of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, James Hoffa. Barbour underscored the need for Congress to view the transportation network as multi-modal system and described his first-hand knowledge of how international businesses evaluate a state or city’s infrastructure to determine whether or not they will locate their facilities there. Hoffa outlined a new infrastructure awareness campaign by the Teamsters called [“Let’s Get America Working.”](https://teamster.org/getamericaworking) “It is long past time for us to put aside our differences and unite behind a single purpose we all agree on – we must invest in our infrastructure and put Americans to work,” Hoffa said. Congress has until October 29, 2015 to pass a multi-year highway and transit bill or the program will shut down. In July the U.S. Senate passed the [DRIVE Act](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/transportation-and-infrastructure-one-stop-shop), which ASCE [supports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/senate-committee-passes-surface-transportation-bill/)and provides six years of funding certainty to states and localities in order to improve our nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. The U.S. House of Representatives will soon unveil their multi-year bill to address this issue. Please help by [writing ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your members of Congress and [urging ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)them to pass a long-term transportation bill by the October 29 deadline. 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surface transportation reauthorization and federal aviation administration reauthorization about to expire. With Labor Day and summer traffic behind us it is critical for Congress to invest in our surface transportation needs so that our nation’s roads don’t fall into even further disrepair during another harsh winter. Anthony Foxx addressed the need for Congress to remember the original vision of the Highway Trust Fund in his [remarks ](http://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/national-press-club-%E2%80%93-infrastructure-funding-panel)at the National Press Club. “I firmly believe that on a bipartisan basis we are in a moment where Congress can achieve a bipartisan bill that helps us carry the work forward,” he [told them](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=39394). In response to dwindling federal funds, more states are taking measures into their own hands to ensure they have the funding needed to improve their transportation networks. [Tennessee ](http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/local/story/2015/sep/09/tennessee-gov-bill-haslam-faces-down-billion-dollar-backlog-highway-projects-during-chattanooga-visit/324212/)is currently facing a multi-billion dollar backlog of highway projects across the state, so the Governor has started discussing his plan to raise the gas tax. “We know that we can’t depend on the federal government to be the funding partner that it once was,” Gov. Haslam said. In order to prepare for increasing population needs, the state needs to prioritize [projects ](http://www.newschannel9.com/news/top-stories/stories/haslam-visits-chattanooga-talk-transportation-20208.shtml)to address the most pressing projects, and is considering a gas tax increase as a [potential solution](http://nooga.com/171007/tennessee-transportation-costs-outpacing-revenues/). Indiana is another state that needs more money for infrastructure projects. In response to the growing list of projects that the DOT classifies as critical for the state, legislators are considering a mileage-based tax as well as a gas tax as options for generating funds. In addition to highways, freight and passenger rail are in need of modernization. To move goods efficiently, it takes a “transportation village” and investing in better safety technology will improve our overall freight movement system. While Congress has a lot on their plate, hopefully they will prioritize infrastructure and help strengthen the economy. As we await the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s mark-up of its multiyear surface transportation bill, [write ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your members of Congress and [urge ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)them to pass a long-term transportation bill by the October 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20returns%2C%20infrastructure%20needs%20pile%20on&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, gas tax --- ### [Highway Fund in Trouble by November 20th](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/highway-fund-in-trouble-by-november-20th/) **Published:** September 23, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Federal Highway Administration](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/HTF-Ticker-Weekly-FY2016-datedSept2015.png)](http://www.transportation.gov/highway-trust-fund-ticker)GRAPH Cash balance estimates of the Highway Account of the federal Highway Trust Fund courtesy of the Federal Highway AdministrationThe U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) recently announced that the Highway Account of the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) will become insolvent by November 20, 2015 if Congress fails to provide additional revenue. The HTF also has a Transit Account that will become insolvent by May 27, 2016. USDOT deems the Highway Account to be insolvent when it dips below the preferred minimum $4 billion threshold, after which USDOT will begin to implement emergency cash management procedures that will slow and reduce expense reimbursements to states. This means that Congress is facing two looming deadlines when it comes to the need to pass a multi-year surface transportation authorization bill with additional funding: - October 29, which, following a July extension, is the new date to pass a renewal of the HTF authorization; and - November 20, which is the projected date when federal funding will slow and be reduced to states. In order to avert this crisis, ASCE and its members have been actively engaged in putting pressure on the U.S. House of Representatives to pass a long-term transportation bill. Republican and Democratic House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee leaders are still working on agreeing to the contents of the bill before it is introduced. In July, the U.S. Senate passed a bill that provides six years of policy reforms and three years of funding to states and localities in order to improve the nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. Please help put pressure on the House to move quickly by [reminding ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your members of Congress of the importance of this issue. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Highway%20Fund%20in%20Trouble%20by%20November%2020th&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [A Simple Action’s Torturous Path](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-simple-actions-torturous-path/) **Published:** September 25, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Windstorm Impact Reduction Act Reauthorization of 2015, is on its way to the President’s desk and likely approval. The House action completes a six year path to reauthorization of a small government program that almost no one opposes. The measure reauthorizes and slightly modifies the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP). The program ensures coordination on federal efforts to mitigate the impact of severe winds and will enhance cooperation among federal agencies including National Institute of Science and Technology, the National Science Foundation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The measure provides authorizations of $21.1 million a year for three years. ASCE was instrumental in the creation of NWIRP in 2004, working closely with the original legislation’s authors Representative Randy Neugebauer (R-TX) and former Representative Dennis Moore (D-KS). ASCE members and staff worked closely with the sponsors, House Science Committee staff as well as numerous professional and industry groups over a five-year period to get the program created. The originating legislation authorized the program for five years to 2009. While a five-year effort to create a federal new program is to be expected, a six-year wait to reauthorize a program with board bipartisan support is not. It is however, an example of the current dysfunction of Congress. Such reauthorizations used to be routinely dealt with by Congress in a timely manner. Further proof of the breakdown of regular order is that is the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), which is NWIRP big brother, still waits for reauthorization. First created in 1977, NEHRP was the model for NWIRP, and has a long track record of innovation in earthquake hazards mitigation. Since its creation, NEHRP has been reauthorized on a regular basis by Congress, the last time in 2004 in the same law that created NWIRP. However, since the authorizations for the two programs expired in 2009, Congress has been unable to complete reauthorization of either program on until last week. While lacking any true opposition, legislation to reauthorize the programs have been side tracked or become victim unrelated partisan squabbles in four different Congresses. The greatest current obstacle for NEHRP has been the lack of a champion. NWIPR has the luxury of its original sponsor, Mr. Neuegbauer, who is now a senior member of the House Science Committee, as a champion. Neither the current Chair of the House Science Committee, Representative Lamar Smith (R-TX), nor the Chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, Senator John Thune (R-SD) have shown much interest in the program. Despite repeated efforts by ASCE and our colleagues in the NEHRP Coalition, no other champion has been identified. Details on both program are available at – <http://www.nist.gov/el/nwirp/> & <http://www.nehrp.gov/> [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=A%20Simple%20Action%E2%80%99s%20Torturous%20Path&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fcb2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=A%20Simple%20Action%E2%80%99s%20Torturous%20Path "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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congestion was a popular one, highlighting our nation’s transportation needs. [The Onion even joked that the Pope even tried to improve the nation’s ailing infrastructure](http://www.theonion.com/article/pope-francis-lays-hands-ailing-us-infrastructure-51388). While not directly related to the Pope’s visit, this week in D.C., the subway system suffered an electrical fire and outage, resulting in the [evacuation ](https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dr-gridlock/wp/2015/09/22/no-metro-service-on-a-busy-portion-of-the-green-and-yellow-lines/)of passengers and extreme delays. While traffic increases are predictable during major events, our existing transit systems should be able to handle increased ridership without breaking down. Fortunately, the number of recent incidents in the D.C. subway system have prompted the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to [approve ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/254874-feds-approve-dc-metro-safety-improvement-plan)a correction action [plan ](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/federal-officials-approve-metros-plan-to-fix-safety-problems-cited-in-report/2015/09/24/6a44ec34-62f5-11e5-b38e-06883aacba64_story.html)to make the system more reliable. Water infrastructure needs have been gaining more spotlight lately due to increased media attention. In [Iowa](http://www.sfgate.com/nation/article/Drinking-water-systems-imperiled-by-failing-6519620.php), Des Moines Water Works, which is critical to providing water for to the Central Iowa region, is showing signs of aging and is in great need of repair. “We’re reaching the end of the life cycle of some of the most critical assets we’ve got,” said Bill Stowe, CEO and general manager of the utility. Water infrastructure needs are also evident in [New Hampshire](http://www.vnews.com/news/state/region/18708758-95/aging-water-systems-get-federal-cash), where the cost needed to repair aging systems, including pipes and treatment plants, could be as much as $1 trillion. In response to these needs, water providers, agencies, utilities, elected officials, corporations and environmental advocates across the country are [joining together ](http://interact.stltoday.com/pr/lifestyle/PR092315124423172)to educate the public about the challenges facing water and wastewater systems, and the need for investment. A nationwide event,[ *Imagine a Day Without Water*](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/), will be held Oct. 6-8 in events across the country to emphasize how essential water is and the importance of maintaining water and wastewater infrastructure. Meanwhile, additional states are taking action to repair their surface transportation infrastructure. [Tennessee](http://columbiadailyherald.com/news/local-news/senator-pushes-transport-tax-reform), [Texas](http://www.expressnews.com/news/local/article/Abbott-wants-action-on-most-congested-traffic-6524388.php), [New Jersey](http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/why-new-jersey-s-gas-tax-is-probably-going-up/article_c97dfd1e-618b-11e5-8f9f-736de9fa4dbd.html), [Oregon ](http://www.thedalleschronicle.com/news/2015/sep/22/oregon-needs-gas-tax-road-bridge-upgrades/)and [Alaska ](http://www.ktoo.org/2015/09/24/gov-walker-calls-special-session-new-gas-tax-pipeline-buyout/)are considering raising their state gas tax, among other options, to fund their transportation. Whether it’s improving transit, maintaining water infrastructure or re-paving our roads, federal funding is essential. As we await the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s mark-up of its multi-year surface transportation bill, [write ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your members of Congress and [urge ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)them to pass a long-term transportation bill by the October 29 deadline. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Transit%20and%20Water%20Needs%20Capture%20Media%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** gas tax, highway trust fund, transit, water infrastructure --- ### [New York Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-york-infrastructure-receives-report-card/) **Published:** September 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IRC-NY_Logo.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/IRC-NY_Logo.png)In the inaugural [***2015* *Report Card for New York’s Infrastructure*** ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/NY_ReportCard_Brochure_9.29.15_FINAL2.pdf "NY Report Card")released today, the state received an overall grade of “C-” from the New York Council of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Assessing nine categories, the report finds that the state’s roads and bridges are among the categories most in need of repair, receiving grades of “D-” and “D+” respectively because of their state of deterioration and lack of adequate funding to improve conditions. In addition, wastewater received a low grade of “D.” The category of parks and solid waste both earned the highest grade of “B-.” New York’s infrastructure faces several challenges and, in its current condition, the infrastructure system is a drag on the state’s economy. These challenges are highlighted in the Report Card: - The three airports servicing New York City account for a majority of the nation’s airport delays. By the year 2030, JFK is expected to exceed its current traveler capacity by 30%, and ten other commercial service airports in New York will also exceed 60% of the current capacities. - Of New York’s more than 17,000 bridges, the majority were built in the 20th century, with over 50% of bridges over 75 years old. Nationally, the average age of a bridge is 42 years. - The average New York City area commuter, which accounts for half the state’s population, wastes 53 hours per year sitting in traffic. - Poor road conditions and traffic congestion cost motorists a total of $6.3 billion statewide—an average of $477 per Syracuse motorists. - The State of New York is only spending 20% of what is needed to modernize the wastewater system. - One in every four of New York’s wastewater facilities are operating beyond their 30-year useful life expectancy. “As one of the oldest cities in the country, New York has aging infrastructure that serves a constantly growing population. We are home to iconic infrastructure such as the Brooklyn Bridge, but the entire network of infrastructure matters—not just the recognizable landmarks,” said Bud Griffis, P.E., Ph.D. New York Report Card Committee Chair. “The Report Card shows that our infrastructure is only as good as the weakest links and that we have a lot of areas that need improvement. Luckily, our governor and mayor have been implementing policies that will help address these needs, and strengthen the economy.” Among the recommendations detailed in the report to raise the grades:[![recommendations](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/recommendations.jpg "Rhode Island")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/NY_ReportCard_Brochure_9.29.15_FINAL2.pdf) - Create a prioritization program to assess the state’s transportation infrastructure needs starting from existing bridge asset management programs and based on accepted standards. - Develop more consistent funding sources of funding for dams and support the creation of dam rehabilitation funding legislation at the federal and state levels for public and private owners of high hazard and intermediate hazard dams. - As infrastructure is being rebuilt, make it more resilient and sustainable. “A solid, sustainable, twenty first infrastructure is the level playing field we need to spur economic growth in cities across our state and country,” said Syracuse Mayor Stephanie A. Miner. “From water mains to roads and bridges to the next generation of broadband technology, these are the critical components needed to keep our communities growing in the right direction. I urge the State of New York to increase its investment in municipal infrastructure to help our cities thrive.” A team of professional engineers from across New York assessed the nine categories of infrastructure to reach the cumulative grade of “C-.” The categories include Aviation (C), Bridges (D+), Dams (C-), Drinking Water (C), Parks (B-), Roads (D-), Solid Waste (B-), Transit (C-), Wastewater (D). The New York Infrastructure Report Card was created as a public service to citizens and politicians of the state to inform them of the infrastructure needs in their community. By using school report card letter grades, civil engineers have used their expertise to condense complicated data into easy-to-understand analysis. State level report cards are modeled after the national [2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of D+.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org) ### [**View the full report here.**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/NY_ReportCard_FullReport_9.29.15_FINAL.pdf "NY Report Card") *Founded in 1852, the American Society of Civil Engineers represents more than 145,000 civil engineers worldwide and is America’s oldest national engineering society. ASCE’s 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, graded America’s cumulative GPA for infrastructure at a D+. The Report Card app for Apple and Android devices includes videos, interactive maps and info-graphics that tell the story behind the grades, as well as key facts for all 50 states.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20York%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2013%2F02%2FIRC-NY_Logo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20York%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card "Share on 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This week, Congress approved a [six-month extension](http://www.law360.com/articles/708856/senate-sends-6-month-faa-reauthorization-to-obama-s-desk) of current aviation funding and policy that will keep projects moving, maintain revenue collection and keep Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees on the job until a long-term bill can be enacted. While an extension is certainly not ideal, it is better than letting the funding expire. At the state level, New York this week released its inaugural [infrastructure report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new_york/newyork/). While the Empire State received a C- overall, roads and bridges, received a D- and D+ respectively, illustrating the need for significant investment and repair. According to the [report](http://www.newsday.com/news/region-state/american-society-of-civil-engineers-report-new-york-sewers-bridges-roads-need-modernizing-1.10902476), “New York City-area drivers, which account for half the state’s population, each spend 53 hours per year just sitting in traffic.” New York isn’t the only state with infrastructure woes. In [Arizona](http://www.tucsonnewsnow.com/story/30136372/audit-finds-poor-arizona-roads-cost-each-driver-318-per-year), budget shortfalls are resulting in the state’s inability to invest in its transportation needs. According to a recent [article ](http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/transportation-funds-to-fall-short-of-state-s-longterm-needs/article_25c74c48-fd2f-545e-86d0-2708b00f7f45.html)published in the Arizona Daily Star, The Arizona Department of Transportation will need about $88.9 billion in its 25-year plan to ensure “minimum acceptable conditions” for the state highway system. In [Texas](http://www.examiner.com/article/texas-voters-encouraged-to-support-prop-7-to-secure-funding-for-non-toll-roads), funding for roads has become a priority in their upcoming election, as [Proposition 7](http://movetexasforward.com/proposition-7/) would dedicate $2.5 billion of the general sales and use tax and 35 percent of the vehicle sales tax to the construction and maintenance of non-toll highways. With the [deadline ](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/highway-fund-in-trouble-by-november-20th/)for renewing the Highway Trust Fund quickly approaching and more states realizing their need for long-term surface transportation funding, publications like [Bloomberg ](http://www.bloombergview.com/articles/2015-10-02/how-to-fund-america-s-highways)and [The Hill](http://thehill.com/opinion/op-ed/255379-americas-pothole-the-highway-trust-fund) have emphasized the importance of the federal gas tax to generate funding. October 1 marked 22 years since the last federal gas tax increase. In July, the Senate passed a bill that provides six years of policy reforms and three years of funding to improve the nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. Now it’s time for the House to act. You can help by [reminding ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your members of Congress to act quickly to [\#Fix the Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) before the Oct. 29 deadline. 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Join%20in%20the%20National%20Imagine%20a%20Day%20Without%20Water "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FImagine-a-Day-Without-Water.jpg&description=Join%20in%20the%20National%20Imagine%20a%20Day%20Without%20Water "Pin it with 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Logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/idww_logo_hornar_rgb-1024x607.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/idww_logo_hornar_rgb.jpg)There is a [water main break every two minutes in the U.S.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/drinking-water/) For such a valuable resource, we are not prioritizing it in the way we should. As cliché as it may sound, water makes everything possible. Morning coffee, fighting fires, manufacturing blue jeans, growing apples, and visiting a water park all require water. Across the country, the pipe systems that deliver and treat our water are aging and beginning to deteriorate, evident in the “D” grade in the 2013 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. Many water pipes are at the end of their useful life, with some even dating back to the Civil War era. Each time a water main breaks, our communities suffer as roads are shut down for repairs, and water to nearby homes and businesses is shut off. With these systems buried underground, our water becomes an “out of sight, out of mind” problem until disaster strikes. This goes beyond inconvenience, as this aging infrastructure is a drag on the economy. [ASCE’s Failure to Act economic study](http://www.asce.org/water_and_wastewater_report/) assessed that if we fail to increase investment into our water and wastewater infrastructure by 2020, then family budgets will be squeezed by $900 as water rates rise and personal income falls. Furthermore, there will be an increased cost to businesses of $147 billion because of inadequate infrastructure. Investing in our nation’s water infrastructure would have the reverse effect, as investment by 2020 would strengthen our economy by protecting almost 700,000 jobs, $416 billion in GDP, and $6 billion in U.S. exports. Coupled with the benefit of protecting the precious resource of water, improving our water infrastructure comes with a huge return on investment. This week, you have the opportunity to stand up for our most essential resource during the Value of Water Coalition’s “Imagine A Day Without Water.” Join in by c[onnecting your Twitter, Facebook or Tumblr to the Thunderclap](https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/31458-imagine-a-day-without-water?locale=en) that will amplify the message to #ValueWater through social media, [check out the events happening around the country](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/events), or [consider participating other ways](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/participate). We can [modernize our nation’s water infrastructure](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/resources/message-deck), but it will take investment and leadership from all levels of government. The average U.S. family spends twice as much on their cable bill than on their water bill each year. These current rates do not reflect the true cost of supplying clean, reliable drinking water; to replace our nation’s antiquated pipes it will take significant local investment. By prioritizing water infrastructure today, we can ensure clean, safe water so that communities can thrive in the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Join%20in%20the%20National%20Imagine%20a%20Day%20Without%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water --- ### [Dagher to be recognized by White House for Composite Arch Bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dagher-to-be-recognized-by-white-house-for-composite-arch-bridges/) **Published:** October 9, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Dagher%20to%20be%20recognized%20by%20White%20House%20for%20Composite%20Arch%20Bridges&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Could it be possible to construct a bridge in two weeks that lasts up to 100 years, has similar costs as a regular steel and concrete bridge, and requires minimal maintenance? It may seem farfetched, but ASCE member and Founding Director of the University of Maine’s Advanced Structures and Composites Center Dr. Habib Dagher, invented and achieved that very thing with his award-winning composite arch bridge system, often known as the [“Bridge-in-a-Backpack.” ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bupAxrq1_Iw) Dagher will be recognized Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2015, for his groundbreaking innovation by U.S. Secretary of Transportation Anthony Foxx at a White House ceremony honoring 11 of the nation’s top transportation innovators. Each year, the [*Champions of Change*](http://www.whitehouse.gov/champions) program recognizes Americans who are advancing transportation and leading change that benefits our nation’s transportation system. The composite arch bridge system consists of inflatable tubes made of fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) that act as reinforcement for cast-in-place concrete. Once on site, the patented bridge technology can be erected and lifted into place without heavy equipment or large crews in a matter of days, as opposed to several months. Construction costs for the “bridge-in-a-backpack” are comparable to those of a standard bridge. The technology is extremely durable, has a smaller carbon footprint than current bridge technologies, and is estimated to last two or three times longer than the typical 40-70 year lifespan of a concrete-and-steel bridge. The University of Maine has licensed the bridge technology to private start-up company [Advanced Infrastructure Technologies](http://aitbridges.com/) (AIT), who designs and builds these bridges. The composite arch bridge system was also approved by AASHTO, the first technology of its kind to be approved in the U.S. bridge design code. To date, composite arch bridges have been installed by AIT in 18 locations around the nation and other countries. 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The bill, text of which has not yet been finalized is titled, the Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015. In making the announcement, Shuster noted that the bill would, “reform programs, refocus those programs on national priorities, provide more flexibility and certainty for state and local partners, and welcome innovation.” The markup is set to begin at 10:00AM ET next Thursday and will be [livestreamed here ](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=399372%29). [![aaa](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/aaa.jpg "Illinois")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/aaa.jpg)The announcement comes after legislative progress this summer by the U.S. Senate which passed the [DRIVE Act](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/transportation-and-infrastructure-one-stop-shop) that provides three years of increased funding and six years of policy for federal road, bridge and transit programs. This funding increase is supported by a large majority of Americans as demonstrated in [a recent public survey by the motor club AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2015/10/americans-overwhelmingly-support-increased-transportation-funding/). The survey found that 70% of respondents believed that the federal government should invest more than it does now for roads, bridges and mass transit systems. The survey also found that only 38% of Americans believe that Congress is taking the necessary steps to ensure that our roads, bridges and transit systems will meet the needs of the nation. Please [let your House members know you support them moving forward](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833) quickly on legislation that provides multi-year certainty and increased funding levels for highway and transit programs. 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Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, the House is scrambling to come up with a plan for reauthorizing the surface transportation bill before the Oct. 29 deadline. [Yesterday](http://www.politico.com/tipsheets/morning-transportation/2015/10/t-i-leaders-to-debut-grand-transpo-plan-today-house-lawmakers-set-auto-safety-bill-in-motion-speaker-indecision-jeopardizes-highway-pay-fors-210742), the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I) announced their latest bill, The Surface Transportation Reauthorization and Reform Act of 2015, and scheduled the committee mark-up of the bill for Oct. 22. In response to the rapidly-approaching deadline, Rep. John Delaney wrote a [letter ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/257028-dem-presses-for-meaningful-increase-in-road-spending)to House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Rep. Bill Shuster cautioning him that “continuing baseline funding levels will only lead to a further deterioration of our already failing infrastructure.” According to a new [poll ](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2015/10/americans-overwhelmingly-support-increased-transportation-funding/)from AAA, 70 percent of Americans believe the federal government should invest more than it currently does for roads, bridges and mass transit systems. Likewise, only 38 percent of Americans believe that Congress is taking the necessary steps to meet the needs of our nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. Meanwhile, flood damage in South Carolina and mudslides in California have dominated the headlines. In response to the widespread devastation in South Carolina two weeks ago, [SCDOT reemphasized](http://www.heraldonline.com/opinion/article39386280.html) the state’s need for infrastructure funding. In [California](http://www.ifreepress.com/california-next-south-carolina-mudslide-closing-highway-5/), extreme flooding caused by El Nino triggered a mudslide about 30 miles from Los Angeles. This incident shines a light on California’s vulnerable dams. According to the [US Army Corp of Engineers](http://www.ifreepress.com/california-next-south-carolina-mudslide-closing-highway-5/), California has 1,594 dams and more than 50 percent are listed as high-hazard dams. The mudslide also resulted in road closings which inconvenienced drivers. Traffic headaches caused by overflowing water are not limited to natural disasters, as a [water main break](http://www.wusa9.com/story/news/local/maryland/2015/10/13/water-main-break-reported-bethesda/73873396/) this week outside of Washington, D.C. demonstrated. The event flooded nearby roads with gallons of water, also causing 250 local residents to lose power. Whether dams or water mains, clearly the nation’s water infrastructure is aging and needs investment. With the October 29 deadline looming, Congress must work together to pass a long-term surface transportation bill and [\#Fix the Trust Fund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Infrastructure%20Tested%20as%20Transportation%20Funding%20Deadline%20Approaches&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, highway trust fund, water infrastructure --- ### [House Unveils Surface Transportation Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-unveils-surface-transportation-bill/) **Published:** October 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")[![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/STRRA.jpg)](http://transportation.house.gov/strr-act/) On Friday, the U.S. House of Representatives’ Transportation & Infrastructure Committee [unveiled ](http://transportation.house.gov/strr-act/)a six-year surface transportation reauthorization bill. The bipartisan legislation, titled, the Surface Transportation Re-authorization and Reform Act (STRRA) of 2015, contains three years of flat-level funding for highway and transit programs and will be marked-up by the committee this Thursday. In rolling out their bill, legislative sponsors have stated the importance of its provisions to reform existing programs, refocus those programs on national priorities, provide more flexibility and certainty for state and local partners, and emphasis on transportation innovation. ASCE [believes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ASCE-Letter-on-STRRA.pdf) that status quo funding levels for surface transportation, as is provided in STRRA, are inadequate. Currently this underinvestment [costs ](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/)the average American family about $1,000 from their budget each year from now until 2020 due to the current road, bridge and transit conditions. ASCE believes that members of the House should utilize every available opportunity to attempt to increase funding levels for highway and transit programs beyond where they currently exist in STRRA. Despite the inadequate funding levels, STRRA does contain policy items that ASCE supports, including: - Multi-year program certainty that will help states and localities better plan and deliver projects; - Accelerated project delivery reforms aimed to improve collaboration between agencies and create deadlines for agency action(s); - Providing grants to states for continued and expanded pilot testing of future road user fee collection systems; - A new competitive grant to address bus and bus facility needs; - Increased focus on funding for roadway safety infrastructure and on the safety needs of rural roads; and - An option for localities to bundle small projects such as bridges to increase efficiency. The introduction of the House bill follows action by the Senate in July in passing a multi-year bill with increased funding levels. In order to get a bill to President Obama for his signature soon, the House will have to pass a bill and negotiate a compromise with the Senate. The House and Senate will then have to pass that identical bill through each chamber for it to be sent to the President. Please [contact ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your House member and urge he/she to move forward on a House bill in order to get to a conference with the Senate where agreement can be reached on a final bill. You can view the House markup set to begin this Thursday at 10:00AM ET [here](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=399372). 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Nation’s Patience Wearing Thin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-highway-bill-proposed-nations-patience-wearing-thin/) **Published:** October 23, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FSTRRA.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FSTRRA.jpg&description=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With just six days left until MAP-21’s expiration, all eyes are looking to the U.S. House to pass a long-term surface transportation bill. Yet, even if they do so by next week, another extension of MAP-21 will be necessary in order to iron out differences between the House and Senate-passed bills. Earlier this week, the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee passed the bipartisan Surface Transportation Re-authorization and Reform Act. According to [The Hill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/257797-house-panel-approves-six-year-325b-highway-bill), the bill would authorize spending $261 billion on highways, $55 billion on transit and approximately $9 billion on safety programs over the course of six years. However, the House has not yet identified the source of the additional billions of dollars necessary to support this level of investment. It is [critical ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/257818-congress-has-one-week-to-prevent-highway-funding-shutdown)that the House pass this bill now in order to reach an agreement with the Senate on a final, compromise legislative package. While [ASCE ](http://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=18455)supports continued funding for highway and transit programs included in the bill, increased long-term investment would, “provide states with greater certainty that the federal government is a trusted partner in transportation.” Many citizens have responded to the latest bill with disappointment. Op-eds in [Engineering News-Record](http://enr.construction.com/opinions/viewpoint/2015/1021-words-instead-of-dollars.asp), [Bloomberg](http://www.bloombergview.com/articles/2015-10-22/don-t-raid-banks-to-pay-for-highways), [Baltimore Sun,](http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/readersrespond/bs-ed-transpo-letter-20151021-story.html) [Herald Independent](http://heraldindependent.com/opinion/editorials/1369/21st-century-prices-for-21st-century-roads) and [The Southern](http://thesouthern.com/news/opinion/voice-of-the-southern/voice-of-the-southern-congress-cowards-and-crumbling-roads/article_8cd9d837-d1b5-5033-9489-5d49e142713e.html) share common frustrations with the bill’s failure to significantly increase investment and Congress’ inability to make headway towards finding a funding solution. States will be forced to react to potential insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund in November. [Michigan](http://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/2015/10/21/michigan-roads-repairs-potholes-legislature/74360028/)’s House proposed a [transportation funding package](http://www.freep.com/story/news/politics/2015/10/22/everything-we-know-house-roads-package/74389832/) that would devote an extra $1.2 billion for roads from a dividend of sources including registration fees, increased gas taxes and tax relief through a Homestead Property Tax Credit. And states like [Georgia ](http://www.peachpundit.com/2015/10/23/without-a-long-term-highway-bill-gdot-delays-december-project-bids/)are considering postponing transportation projects altogether for the upcoming winter months. Congress’ decision on this bill will have ripple effects on our nation’s transportation network and ultimately our economy. ASCE needs you to contact your House member and urge support of the House bill so funding can be addressed in conference with the Senate. [Tell your Representative](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833&utm_campaign=GR-2015-23-10-TWiW+Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to support a six-year transportation bill with increased investment. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Highway%20Bill%20Proposed%3B%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Patience%20Wearing%20Thin&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, congress, infrastructure investment --- ### [House Readies for Action on Surface Transportation Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-readies-for-action-on-surface-transportation-bill/) **Published:** October 29, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")[![STRRA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/STRRA.jpg)](http://transportation.house.gov/strr-act/) Yesterday, Congress enacted a short-term extension of current highway and transit program authority before the looming deadline of October 29. The current authorization and solvency of the federal Highway Trust Fund will now expire on November 20, which gives Congress about three more weeks to conclude a few important remaining steps in the process of completing work on a surface transportation bill: - Next week the House will take-up and likely pass its own six-year transportation bill which provides flat-line funding for the next three years; - Immediately thereafter, the House and Senate will convene a conference committee and work quickly to produce a compromise bill; - The House and Senate will then have to pass an identical bill through each chamber before it can be sent to President Obama for his signature, hopefully before the November 20 deadline. With the next step being the need of the House to pass a bill, ASCE needs you to [contact ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your House member and urge he/she to support the House bill so that funding and policy differences can be addressed in conference with the Senate. While ASCE remains concerned about the woefully inadequate funding levels provided in the House bill for highway and transit programs, there are legislative reforms included that will improve various aspects of the nation’s surface transportation program. In particular, the House bill contains sound polices that aim to improve roadway safety, streamline the environmental review and permitting process, and enhance the level of private-sector investment in surface transportation projects. Please take a moment to [tell ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=104833)your Representative to vote YES on the House bill in order to get to a conference with the Senate where agreement can be reached on a final bill. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Readies%20for%20Action%20on%20Surface%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads, transit --- ### [Voters say “Yes” to Infrastructure on Nov. 3](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/voters-say-yes-to-infrastructure-on-nov-3/) **Published:** November 4, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Voters%20say%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Infrastructure%20on%20Nov.%203&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Although 2015 may be an “off” election year, many states still held elections on critical issues. While some voted for Governor, state legislators and mayor, voters in Louisiana, Maine, and Texas were asked to make important decisions about the future of their state’s infrastructure. Transportation was the theme of this year’s ballot measure and if you’ve ever experienced a bumpy ride to work or gridlock on a recent road trip, you can probably understand why. States are using the fall elections to get voter feedback on the steps to take. Here’s what the election night returns say: - On October 24, [Louisiana](http://staticresults.sos.la.gov/10242015/10242015_Statewide.html) voters approved a measure to create an infrastructure bank in the form of **Question 2**. This ballot measure granted the legislature to allocate revenue sources to fund a “state infrastructure bank” for the purpose of funding transportation projects. A second ballot initiative on infrastructure, **Question 1** was rejected by voters. The measure asked voters to allow the legislature to designate a portion of excess mineral tax revenue to the Transportation Stabilization Fund. Even though the measure would not have created an additional tax burden on Louisianans, it was still rejected. - [Maine](http://www.wcsh6.com/story/news/politics/2015/11/03/2015-results/75108228/) put **Question 3** before its voters asking them to approve an additional $85 million for transportation projects. Mainers said “yes” to invest in the construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of a number of sectors of Maine’s infrastructure including roads, ports, freight and passenger rail, and airports. It is estimated that the state’s $85 million bond could result in an approximately $121.5 million match in federal and other funds. - Texas had two infrastructure related measures to put before voters – who said yes to both! **[Proposition 7](https://enrpages.sos.state.tx.us/public/nov03_190_race6.htm?x=0&y=0&id=254)** builds upon the funding provided for by the passage of Proposition 1 in 2014. This measure will designate a percentage of sales tax and motor vehicle sales, use and rental taxes to the state highway fund. This particular revenue stream would specifically be used to fund non-toll roads and reduce certain types of transportation-related debt. Meanwhile, **[Proposition 5](https://enrpages.sos.state.tx.us/public/nov03_190_race4.htm)** increases the population cap to enable of small counties (a population of 7,500 or fewer) to authorize private road development and maintenance. Think of your daily commute as you head out to work, school or play this fall. Remember the wear and tear suffered by your car and/or the countless hours you’ve given up to traffic snarls along the way (hopefully not both). These states are good examples of how making your opinion heard can result in steps in the right direction for infrastructure. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Voters%20say%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Infrastructure%20on%20Nov.%203&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2015BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment --- ### [Hidden, But Not Forgotten: The Engineering Role in Legacy Site Remediation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/hidden-but-not-forgotten-the-engineering-role-in-legacy-site-remediation/) **Published:** November 5, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Image from Wikimedia Commons.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Gold_King_Mine_Spill_Emergency_Retaining_Ponds-1024x576.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Gold_King_Mine_Spill_Emergency_Retaining_Ponds.jpg)Gold King Mine Spill Emergency Retaining Ponds Image from Wikimedia CommonsEver since the Gold King mine accident this August in Colorado, public interest has grown – with Congress following suit – in the murky environmental legacy issue of abandoned mines that are pervasive across the American landscape. Often unbeknownst even to nearby neighbors, abandoned mines represent a pastime of American history that drove Western development and fueled – often literally – the rapid growth of our country’s infrastructure. Mines come in many sorts: open pit, placer and hardrock. Hydraulic fracturing or fracking is another, more complex hydrocarbon extraction method. The minerals extracted from these mines help pave our roads, produce power and are critical to many of our modern day electronics. When the cost of extracting minerals exceeds the value a mining company receives, the mines are shut down. Unfortunately, in the early days of mining before federal law required companies to remediate sites shafts were simply boarded up at the end of the mines useful life. In many cases, for the next decade or two water would fill the abandoned mining shaft and mix with leftover mineral content to create a toxic sludge. On August 5, 2015 in Silverton, Colorado a dam holding back a mustard-colored tidal wave of sulfuric acid laden water was breached by a contractor of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) working in the area to set up monitoring equipment. (See live footage of the breach occurring here: <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBlR05tDCbI>). The resulting deluge closed down the Animas River. Congress has responded to the Gold King mine incident by introducing legislation that would provide additional resources and avenues for local communities to utilize if an abandoned mine thereat exists. A hearing on Capitol Hill Wednesday focused of two efforts under consideration: [H.R. 3844](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/3844/all-actions) would create a new entity that could independently help with abandoned mine remediation, and importantly, accept private foundation money. The second bill, [H.R. 3843](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/3843/all-actions) would extend Good Samaritan liability to the private sector to assist in abandon mine clean ups – an idea that’s been met with resistance because some argue mining companies could take advantage of the protection. Abandoned mines, orphaned wells and toxic sites are all legacy environmental issues that can be addressed by good engineering practices. However, remediation plans must have buy-in across all levels of government and the community to be successful. In the case of Gold King, for years the local community rejected being listed on the National Priorities List (NPL) for potential Superfund aid, fearing negative publicity. The decision to reject NPL status was in part fueled because Superfund is subject to annual appropriations and the guaranteed revenue stream (a tax on oil and chemical production) expired in the 1990’s, meaning it can take decades for Superfund project to commence. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) is trying to restate that tax. (See related recent [GAO article](http://www.gao.gov/assets/680/672734.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2015-30-10-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) on Superfund). 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Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-passes-six-year-highway-transit-bill/) **Published:** November 6, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Passes%20Six-Year%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FSTRRA.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Passes%20Six-Year%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Bill "Share on 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The [Surface Transportation Reauthorization & Reform (STRR) Act of 2015](http://transportation.house.gov/strr-act/) cleared the House by [a vote of 363-64](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll623.xml). A last-minute amendment was added to STRR that secured an additional $40 billion in revenue from an unused Federal Reserve account. This means that while the House bill is now funded for a full six-years, it still does not increase highway and transit funding levels over the current amount. Following the bill’s passage, ASCE President Mark W. Woodson, P.E., F.ASCE, released a statement saying, “While the House-passed bill provides six years of stability for the nation’s road, bridge, and transit programs, it fails to increase funding to levels that are adequate to properly maintain our infrastructure.” Mark went on to state that, “ASCE is disappointed that House leadership prevented a vote on raising the federal gas tax – a policy solution that would have provided long-term funding and certainty that states desperately need to move forward with their transportation projects.” ASCE endorsed multiple amendments that were offered to raise the gas tax, including one by Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), however none of those amendments were allowed to receive a full vote on the House floor. An [amendment that was defeated](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll606.xml), which ASCE weighed-in against, was a sense of Congress resolution introduced by Rep. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) in support of the concept of devolving the federal transportation program to the states. Some highlights of the House bill include: • Multi-year program certainty that will help states and localities better plan and deliver projects; • Accelerated project delivery reforms aimed to improve collaboration between agencies and create deadlines for agency action(s); • Providing grants to states for continued and expanded pilot testing of future road user fee collection systems; • A new competitive grant to address bus and bus facility needs; • Increased focus on funding for roadway safety infrastructure and on the safety needs of rural roads; and • An option for localities to bundle small projects such as bridges to increase efficiency. The House vote follows previous Senate action in July on its surface transportation bill, which provided only three years of funding although at much higher levels. Now the House and Senate will work to negotiate a compromise before the looming November 20 deadline. ASCE will be reviewing the House and Senate bills to determine which provisions we favor to be included in any final agreement. On funding, ASCE urges a final bill be multi-year with sizable funding increases for highway and transit programs. Be sure to check this blog regularly in the coming days and weeks to get more updates on how you can help our advocacy effort to #FixTheTrustFund. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20A%20Major%20Bill%20Goes%20to%20Conference&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With the Surface Transportation Reauthorization & Reform Act of 2015 moving to conference committee and elections on Tuesday, news headlines have been buzzing with wishes and concerns for our nation’s infrastructure. The [House has officially approved ](http://www.usnews.com/news/business/articles/2015/11/05/house-passes-highway-bill-that-keeps-a-lid-on-spending)the Surface Transportation Reauthorization & Reform Act, a six-year bipartisan bill that will provide flat-level funding. The bill must now be reconciled with the Senate’s DRIVE Act in a conference committee working toward a deadline of Nov. 20—when the current short-term extension expires. This decision has sparked many [concerns ](http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/nation-world/sns-bc-us--transportation-bill-20151105-story.html)that the bill only continues with the status quo rather than increasing investment to improve our infrastructure. While there are many economic reasons for investing in infrastructure, [the safety reasons](http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/06/us/politics/human-cost-rises-as-old-bridges-dams-and-roads-go-unrepaired.html?_r=3) are equally critical. [The New York Times ](http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/06/us/politics/human-cost-rises-as-old-bridges-dams-and-roads-go-unrepaired.html?_r=2)noted that much of our infrastructure—from dams to roads—is operating beyond its intended design life and that modernization will allow for newer design standards, while also enhancing safety. Infrastructure safety concerns are not limited to roads, but expand to [bridges](http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/2015/November/04/Br_Safe_Gibson-04Nov15.html), [dams ](http://www.damsafety.org/)and [railroads](http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/capitolinq/Rail-agency-head-aim-for-safety-upgrades-before-new-deadline.html). The House of Representatives has [adopted an amendment](http://www.midhudsonnews.com/News/2015/November/04/Br_Safe_Gibson-04Nov15.html) directing the U.S. DOT to develop a full strategy to address “structurally deficient” and “functionally obsolete” bridges within the next year. A multi-year surface transportation bill is an important step in addressing our nation’s infrastructure needs. With that being said, flat funding won’t be enough to adequately modernize our infrastructure. 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state](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/seven-states-say-yes-to-gas-tax-modifications/) in 2016 to increase investment in its transportation infrastructure. Today Governor Rick Snyder (R) [signed this bill into law](http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/11/snyder_signs_long-term_road_fu.html) outside of the Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association headquarters. Today’s bill signing is at least one year in the making! Last fall, the legislature worked diligently to put together a package to increase road funding in advance of a projected harsh winter. Working long hours up to the last day of the 2014 session a committee of key legislators met with the Governor’s office to no avail. These negotiations were only able to yield a [failed ballot measure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/michigan-back-to-square-one-to-fix-roads/) in May of this year. Nonetheless, the two chambers went back to work while Governor Snyder continued to tour the state championing leading us to this long awaited moment in time. Michigan’s surface transportation currently has a backlog of needs due to decades of under investment. 22% of the state’s roads are in poor condition and 12% of the state’s bridges are structurally deficient. The state also made national news earlier this year because of its public transit system’s lack of service in Metro Detroit. To address these needs, the new law will raise the gas tax to 26.3 cents per gallon starting January 1, 2017. The first increase the state has seen since 1997. The additional tax revenue is expected to generate nearly $600 million in new revenue. Additional funds will come from the 20% increase in vehicle registration, which themselves have not increased in 30 years, and additional fees for hybrid and electric vehicles. Additional road funding will come from a shift in funds from the general fund beginning with a $150 million transfer in the 2018-19 budget reaching a maximum of $600 million by 2021. When fully implemented it is expected the package will generate $1.2 billion. The tax increase and higher fees are expected to be offset by a yearly reduction in personal income taxes beginning in 2023 and property tax credits. While the net effect of today’s bill signing is still a few years in the making, Michigan is off to a good start. Increased investment means safer roads and bridges for commuters and the potential for economic growth as businesses can more readily get their goods to market. We applaud Michigan’s legislative body and the Governor have who have helped chart a course toward better and safer future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=For%20Michigan%20Roads%3A%208%20is%20Great%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure, states --- ### [Army Corps of Engineers Are Stewards of Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/army-corps-of-engineers-are-stewards-of-infrastructure/) **Published:** November 11, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Army%20Corps%20of%20Engineers%20Are%20Stewards%20of%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")As stewards of our nation’s infrastructure, civil engineers work to design, build, and maintain our roads, bridges, water pipes, dams, and levees through many different private companies and public agencies, including the [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers](http://www.usace.army.mil/Home.aspx) (USACE). In honor of the veterans who have served in this way, here are some of the many ways that the USACE serve their fellow Americans by delivering engineering services. Inland waterways were the first way that goods were moved across the country. The Corps was tasked with transforming our waterways into navigable paths for cargo ships, and today still maintains the inland waterway system. The system carries the equivalent to 51 million truck trips each year—making it the hidden backbone of our freight network and our economy. To help improve the condition of the infrastructure, USACE recently launched a pilot program for public-private partnerships to move projects forward more quickly. USACE also has an Ecosystem Restoration Program, which works to restore degraded ecosystems such as Louisiana Coastal Area and Chesapeake Bay to more natural conditions. Reducing risk from disaster is one of the pillars of the Corps’ mission. USACE’s emergency operations include responding to drought, floods, and hurricanes along with proactive mitigation of risk. Its [Disaster Impact Model](http://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/EmergencyOperations/DisasterImpactModels.aspx) predicts the scale and scope of a disaster before it occurs to aid emergency managers’ preparations. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is led by Major General Donald E. Jackson, who assumed the position earlier this year. Thanks to the Corps vision of “engineering solutions for our nation’s toughest challenges,” the USACE delivers on its mission to strengthen our nation’s security, energize our economy, and reduce risks from disasters. Thank you to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and all are veterans for their service to our country. 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compromise between the two pending transportation bills, the DRIVE Act and the Surface Transportation Reauthorization & Reform Act (STRRA), our infrastructure’s future continues to take center stage. ASCE and a group of 39 other transportation groups and unions wrote a [letter ](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B28a555ab-ad94-4192-9607-424b594ce328%7D_Leadership_Conference_Ltr_Final.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2015-13-11-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua)to the House and Senate surface transportation conference committee in support of a five-year highway and transit bill that will increase investment levels. They noted that, “While the reliability of future federal highway and public transportation funds is a critical benefit of a multi-year reauthorization bill, such predictability alone is not sufficient to drive needed surface transportation improvements.” When it comes to predicting the future of our nation’s infrastructure, many wonder what that will look like. Articles in [Forbes](http://www.forbes.com/sites/haroldsirkin/2015/11/08/paying-for-fred-flintstone-infrastructure-in-a-george-jetson-world/), [DCInno](http://dcinno.streetwise.co/2015/11/12/self-driving-cars-safe-in-these-cities/) and [Athens Banner-Herald](http://onlineathens.com/opinion/2015-11-11/transportation-planning-should-consider-self-driving-vehicles) emphasized the need to not only invest in infrastructure, but to think strategically about how and where investment should be made. Will the rise of smart cars (autonomous vehicles) play into how we invest in our infrastructure? While questions like this can only be hypothesized, these articles suggest the importance of considering how technological advancements will impact our infrastructure needs down the line when planning funding. Infrastructure trends featured in [*\#GameChangers*](http://ascegamechangers.org/) are examples of how innovation is changing the way infrastructure is designed and built and can help us better envision the future. While projections of our nation’s future infrastructnure landscape have marked this week’s headlines, these ideas cannot get too far without a stable, federal funding source. Hopefully Congress can compromise on a bill that provides increased funding to give states the certainty they need to ot just maintain but modernize our nation’s infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovation%20and%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gamechangers, infrastructure investment --- ### [Five Year Highway & Transit Bill with Funding Increases Better Option](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-five-year-highway-transit-bill-with-funding-increases/) **Published:** November 16, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Five%20Year%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Bill%20with%20Funding%20Increases%20Better%20Option&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, transportation stakeholders sent a [letter ](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B28a555ab-ad94-4192-9607-424b594ce328%7D_Leadership_Conference_Ltr_Final.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2015-13-11-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua "letter")to the House and Senate surface transportation conference committee in support of a robust five year highway and transit bill that would increase investment levels. The House-passed bill includes a $40 billion [offset ](http://www.wsj.com/articles/house-highway-bill-to-use-fed-surplus-account-for-funding-1446760845 "offset")which could help increase investment levels if the duration of the bill were reduced from six years to five. A budget analysis conducted by the [Eno Center for Transportation](https://www.enotrans.org/) estimates that if the money is evenly distributed between highway and transit programs, that a five year bill with a seven percent funding increase in fiscal year 2016 and a three percent annual funding increase thereafter would be the result. On Monday, ASCE along with a larger coalition sent a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/TIFIA-Letter-to-Conference-Committee-11_13_15.pdf "TIFIA") to conferees in support of increase funding for the federal TIFIA program. The [TIFIA program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/tifia/) provides federal credit assistance in the form of direct loans, loan guarantees, and standby lines of credit to finance surface transportation projects of national and regional significance. The Federal Highway Administration’s Office of Innovative Program Delivery notes that for every dollar in federal investment through TIFIA, the program can deliver ten dollars in credit assistance which can be leveraged into thirty dollars in overall transportation infrastructure investment. The House and Senate have [named ](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B2129ad61-48e7-47fb-ad64-37d567c8a7c7%7D_House_and_Senate_Conferees.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2015-13-11-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua)most of their conferees, with the remaining House members likely to be named by the time the first public conference committee meeting takes place this week. Monday, the House unveiled a two week extension of the current law until December 4 to allow the conference committee time to complete their work. Until the conference committee produces a final bill, ASCE remains engaged in a targeted advocacy push to educate member of the committee on ASCE’s key positions. Please continue to check this blog regularly for issue updates over the coming days. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Five%20Year%20Highway%20%26%20Transit%20Bill%20with%20Funding%20Increases%20Better%20Option&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [Tell Congress to Go Big on Transportation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tell-congress-to-go-big/) **Published:** November 17, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Tell%20Congress%20to%20Go%20Big%20on%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![rough roads ahead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/rough-roads-ahead-e1447783858348.jpg "masthead-asce-event-1")](http://www.asce.org/surface_transportation_report/) The House and Senate are currently meeting to decide a big question when it comes to the future of the nation’s surface transportation program: Should funding levels be increased in order to improve and modernize the nation’s roads, bridges and transit system, or should funding levels stay flat for the next six years while the conditions of our aging infrastructure only further deteriorate? ASCE’s answer is pretty clear in a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/ASCE-MAP-21-Reauth-Conf-Cmte-Letter.pdf) we sent to Capitol Hill today: Congress has the means and capability to increase funding levels and they should not squander this opportunity. While we disagree with his hesitancy to hold a vote in the House on increasing the federal motor fuels tax – the correct way to fund the current highway and transit bill – credit goes to House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) for working to include a provision in the House bill that provides an additional $40 billion to the program. ASCE, along with other groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, [believes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Leadership-Conference-Ltr-Final.pdf) that the additional money should go towards crafting a five-year program that includes significant funding increases, rather than a six-year bill that only maintains the status quo. Status quo funding: • Is what results in our nation’s roads and transit systems receiving a “D” grade and our bridges receiving a “C+”; • Costs the average American family $1,060 per year each year until at least 2020 due to inadequate roads, bridges and transit systems; and • Will cost the American economy more than 876,000 jobs, and suppress the growth of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by $897 billion in 2020. Funding increases would allow the House and Senate to produce a bill that would: • Maintain a strong [TIFIA program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/tifia/) that can help leverage billions of dollars in private sector capital for investment in our nation’s infrastructure; • Create a dedicated freight program to help ensure federal investments are targeted at improving U.S. economic competitiveness; • Improve innovation, which is vital to extending the life cycle of infrastructure assets and making our transportation infrastructure more efficient; and • Deliver some of the major infrastructure projects that have currently been sitting on the sidelines due to a lack of funding. The time is now to send a message to Congress regarding the need for increased investment. Call your [House member](http://www.house.gov/representatives/) and [Senators](http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm), and use the hashtag #FixTheTrustFund on social media to urge them to increase funding for transportation in the coming days. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Tell%20Congress%20to%20Go%20Big%20on%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [Conference Committee Meets on Highway & Transit Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/conference-committee-meets-on-highway-transit-bill/) **Published:** November 19, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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surface transportation authorization legislation met in what will likely be its only public meeting before the looming December 4 deadline to finalize work on a bill. The conference committee chairman, Rep. Bill Shuster (R-PA) kicked-off the meeting by stating, “There is plenty of common ground between the \[House & Senate\] proposals to allow us to reach an agreement that both \[chambers\] can willingly support.” The lead House Democrat on the committee, Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), underscored the importance of achieving an increase in overall funding in the final bill. “I’m hopeful to get higher levels of spending on an annual basis and if funds are so limited that we have to reduce the term of the bill, it’s an option I think should be looked at,” said DeFazio. The committee announced a timetable to final action on a bill, which includes finalizing the conference agreement by November 30 and having a House vote on the bill by the December 4 deadline. It remains to be seen whether the Senate will be able to act before the December 4 target or if they will need a week extension to approve the legislation and present it to President Obama for his signature. Either way, all members of the committee seem hopeful that a final agreement will be reached very soon and that they can craft a measure that will receive the necessary votes in both the House and Senate to be signed by the president. ASCE, along with other groups like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce,[ believes a five-year program that includes significant funding increases](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Leadership-Conference-Ltr-Final.pdf%29), rather than a six-year bill that only maintains the status quo, should be the final goal of the conference committee. That sort of legislative package will help create jobs and grow the economy in the years ahead. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Takes%20First%20Step%20to%20Develop%20New%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Several members of Congress from the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee gathered in New Orleans earlier this month to listen to stakeholders offer their wishes for a new water resources bill the Committee has pledged to introduce in 2016. Spearheaded by freshman Congressman Garrett Graves (R-LA), T&I Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA) and Water Resources Subcommittee Chairman Bob Gibbs (R-OH) joined a roundtable discussion focused mainly on flood control and dredging projects sponsored by the Army Corps of Engineers. The Committee’s goal is get the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) back on a two-year authorization cycle, after letting the legislation lie fallow for seven years before finally passing a bill in 2014. Stakeholders representing the ports and inland waterways industries focused heavily on Section 7001 of WRDA. That section requires the Corps to submit an annual report to Congress identifying feasibility reports, proposed feasibility studies and proposed modifications to projects or studies. Section 7001 is the way projects get “named” in the absence of earmarks. Panelists noted that in the Corps 2015 report to Congress of the 114 proposals submitted by non-federal sponsors around the country, only 19 were deemed to have satisfied the criteria in Section 7001. Moreover, they continued, all 19 were proposed feasibility studies, meaning that no proposals for project authorizations or project modifications were sent to Congress. The outstanding question is whether the “federal standard” to recommend a project or study is too strict or if there are larger issues with how the standard is being interpreted. Either way, new project authorizations are hard to come by in Congress and the Administration’s budget, slowing necessary infrastructure development down across the country. Another hot topic of discussion was the beneficial use of dredge material. Several stakeholders from Louisiana urged greater flexibility in the use of dredge material. The material is valuable for wetland restoration projects in Southern Louisiana, but current policy often prohibits pumping the material for use in restoration projects and instead contractors are often required to dump it downriver or off the continental shelf. Changes in Corps policy and cost-benefit analyses could help alleviate the problem. Moving forward the Committee will likely hold a hearing in early 2016 on the next WRDA bill. That pace, while welcomed by many, does face practical obstacles considering the Corps has only implemented about 50% of guidance required under the 2014 law. It’s important that the Corps continue to issue guidance and that Congress provides the agency necessary resources in both the operational and construction budgets. No word yet on a Senate timeline. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Takes%20First%20Step%20to%20Develop%20New%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, levees, WRDA --- ### [Congress Unveils the FAST Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/americas-next-transportation-law-the-fast-act/) **Published:** December 1, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Fast-Act.jpg)](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/highway_bill_conference_2-pager.pdf) Moments ago, the U.S. House and Senate Surface Transportation Authorization Conference Committee produced a final conference report that provides five years of federal highway and transit funding at increased levels. This was the result that ASCE had previously [publicly ](http://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=18657)called for. The final bill provides nearly $233 billion for highway programs, $49 billion for transit programs and the bill also contains a $10 billion federal railroad section. The new House and Senate compromise bill, named the [FAST Act](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/highway_bill_conference_2-pager.pdf) (Fixing America’s Surface Transportation), contains sound polices that aim to improve roadway safety, streamline the environmental review and permitting process, and enhance the level of private-sector investment in surface transportation projects. Of note, the bill: - Creates a dedicated $1.5 billion freight program to help ensure federal investments are targeted at improving U.S. economic competitiveness and provides another $800 million per year for nationally significant freight and highway projects; - Maintains a [TIFIA program](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/tifia/) at around $300 million annually that can help leverage billions of dollars in private sector capital for investment in our nation’s infrastructure; - Improves innovation, in part by providing performance management data support and establishing a national program to explore surface transportation funding alternatives to the fuels tax; and - Invests in transit by creating a new research and deployment program, increasing funds for fixed guideways, and establishing a new bus facility program. Your help is now needed to urge your members of Congress to vote YES on the conference report when it is up for a vote in the coming days. The House and Senate are looking to move quickly to pass this bill before the looming December 4 deadline. Please take a moment and click [here ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=104833)to email your Representative and Senators and urge their support for a long-term program with increased investment. This increased investment will help address construction and maintenance backlogs while creating jobs and growing the economy. The finish line is in sight. Please help us get there. Thank you for your help! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Obama%20Set%20to%20Sign%205%20Year%2C%20%24305%20Billion%20Transportation%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/obama-bill-sign-1024x683.jpg)](http://transportation.house.gov/fast-act/) Yesterday, the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate both approved a five-year, $305 billion highway, transit and railway authorization bill. The overwhelming, bipartisan vote was [359-65](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2015/roll673.xml) in the House and [83-16](http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=114&session=1&vote=00331) in the Senate. President Obama is expected to sign the bill into law later on today. Thank you, infrastructure supporters, for contacting your members of Congress, which certainly helped secure this victory! In the run-up to the vote, ASCE leadership [urged](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/ASCE-FAST-Act-Support-Letter.pdf) adoption of the [legislation ](http://transportation.house.gov/fast-act/)known as the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The FAST Act provides nearly $233 billion for highways, $49 billion for transit and $10 billion federal passenger rail. By the end of the bill’s five-year duration, highway investment would rise by 15% and transit spending would grow by nearly 18%. The FAST Act is the longest surface transportation authorization bill since the enactment of a previous five-year bill in 2005. The bill includes: - Creation of a dedicated $1.25 billion freight program to help ensure federal investments are targeted at improving U.S. economic competitiveness; - Providing $900 million per year for large-scale projects under a new, nationally-significant freight and highways program; - Cutting the TIFIA program from $1 billion annually to around $300 million per year. TIFIA helps leverage billions of dollars in private sector capital for investment in our nation’s infrastructure; - Innovation initiatives, such as establishing a national program to explore surface transportation funding alternatives to the fuels tax; and - Investment in transit by creating a new research and deployment program, increasing funds for fixed guideways, and establishing a new bus facility program. The bill was paid for through $70 billion in general fund money, which came from sources unrelated to transportation. The largest [offset ](https://theintercept.com/2015/12/01/big-banks-suffer-rare-fail-as-congress-cuts-nearly-1-billion-a-year-in-handouts/)came from spending down a capital surplus account in the Federal Reserve. The bill does not #FixTheTrustFund as ASCE had been calling for, because it does not provide a sustainable source of revenues to support the Highway Trust Fund. The Highway Trust Fund is now slated to experience a $24 billion annual shortfall starting in fiscal year 2021 should Congress fail to provide a future funding fix to this looming crisis. Thank you for all of your efforts over the past several months in helping to secure program certainty and increased funding for our nation’s federal surface transportation programs! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Infrastructure%20on%20the%20FAST%20track%20to%20improvement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The bipartisan Congressional approval of the FAST Act (Fixing America’s Surface Transportation) and the release of Hilary Clinton’s infrastructure proposal make this week a busy one indeed. After numerous short-term transportation bill patches and long hours of negotiating, Congress has finally approved a five-year, $305 billion highway, transit and railway authorization bill that President Obama is expected to sign today. The FAST Act reaches beyond funding highways, as it also provides for our nation’s bridges, transit, rail lines, freight and ports. The [bill ](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/highway_bill_conference_2-pager.pdf)also includes the first grant program [guaranteeing financing](http://www.wsj.com/articles/house-passes-five-year-transportation-bill-1449167609) for large-scale freight projects that could help loosen a freight bottleneck in Chicago or construct a rail-freight tunnel in New York Harbor. [American Association of Port Authorities](http://www.maritime-executive.com/article/us-ports-pleased-with-305-billion-plan) (AAPA) President and CEO Kurt Nangle said he is pleased by “the broad eligibility of seaports for infrastructure grants and other financing in this bill,” and was encouraged that the FAST Act recognizes the importance of seaports and freight network to the nation’s economy, job creation and international competitiveness. “For the first time we have dedicated funding for multimodal freight projects,” said Nangle. Many states are expressing their excitement to be able to start funding projects with the FAST Act’s provision. [Pennsylvania ](http://www.heraldmailmedia.com/news/tri_state/pennsylvania/federal-highway-bill-will-help-repair-pa-bridges/article_9f0dfae2-9a26-11e5-8de2-7b7ce7b0d028.html)is planning to fund much-needed bridge repairs, counties in [Florida ](http://www.dailycommercial.com/news/article_2acfde32-d449-50cf-bae1-4aa6a9bdfd28.html)are planning to complete numerous road projects, and [Nebraska ](http://www.omaha.com/news/nebraska/highway-bill-clears-congress-in-big-victory-for-nebraska/article_c4bda9a9-8a58-5d22-979b-ec3779e38819.html)will now be able to tend to hundreds of bridges and roads that need repairs. In addition to the FAST Act, [Hilary Clinton also released her proposal ](http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2015/12/hillary-clintons-modest-infrastructure-proposal/418068/?single_page=true&print=)for infrastructure spending, calling for $275 billion in new spending on roads, bridges, rails, airports and other sectors. Because our nation’s infrastructure investment needs are so high, the Clinton proposal is a promising step in the right direction. ASCE is pleased that Congress has agreed on a long-term surface transportation bill that will provide our nation with the increased funding we need to invest in our infrastructure. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Infrastructure%20on%20the%20FAST%20track%20to%20improvement&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, congress, freight, ports, surface transportation --- ### [FAST Act Summary Part Two: Highways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fast-act-summary-part-two-highways/) **Published:** December 9, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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five-year federal surface transportation authorization law, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. [The first part explored the law’s funding and the future fiscal health of the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/). The next sections will focus on the policy changes to transit and federal passenger rail programs.* The FAST Act provides $305 billion for highway, transit and railway programs. Of that, $233 billion is for highways, which represents a 15% increase in road and bridge funding over the law’s five-year duration. Most of the percentage bump in highway investment will occur in the first year with the program seeing an immediate five-percent increase. Below are the highway investment funding levels over the life of the bill: - (Pre-FAST Act) Fiscal Year (FY) 2015: $40.3 billion - (Post-FAST Act) FY16: $42.4 billion - FY17: $43.3 billion - FY18: $44.2 billion - FY19: $45.3 billion - FY20: $46.4 billion The two main federal highway programs are the National Highway Performance Program (NHPP) and the Surface Transportation Program (STP). NHPP supports improvement of the condition and performance of the National Highway System. Previous law set NHPP funding at $22 billion per year and that number will rise to $24.2 billion by the end of the FAST Act. STP funds have the broadest eligibility and can be used on any federal-aid highway, bridge, transit or non-road transportation project. STP funding was set at $10 billion annually and that program will rise to $12.1 billion by the end of year five. *FREIGHT* The FAST Act establishes and funds two new intermodal freight programs, one formula-based and one that awards grants via a competitive U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) selection. The first is a National Highway Freight Program funded at $1.2 billion annually, which will be divided among all states states via formula. These dollars can be spent on any project that contributes to the efficient movement of freight on a newly yet-to-be-established National Highway Freight Network. The second new freight program provides $900 million annually for the National Significant Freight and Highway Projects Program and will give USDOT the discretion to select large projects of national and regional significance. These projects must be over $100 million in cost and the minimum grant size is $25 million. The grant’s share of project cost cannot exceed 60 percent and 25 percent of the total awards must be made in rural areas. *INNOVATION* The FAST Act contains a whole section on innovation, with a strong focus on technology deployment. Overall, funding for innovation research and development did not grow much, but a few new programs were created that will siphon-off dollars from existing programs. A new $20 million annual Surface Transportation System Funding Alternatives Program was created to give grants to states to explore user-based funding alternatives to the gas tax and provide long-term funding certainty to the Highway Trust Fund. The law establishes a new Performance Management Data Support program to develop and maintain data sets and data analysis tools to assist metropolitan planning organizations in conducting performance management analyses. The FAST Act also redirects $60 million annually from the Highway Research and Development Program; the Technology and Innovation Program; and Intelligent Transportation Systems Research programs to a new Advanced Transportation and Congestion Management Technologies Deployment Program. This new program will provide grants which USDOT will select via a competitive process to develop model deployment sites for large scale installation and operation of technologies in areas such as infrastructure monitoring, vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, and technologies associated with autonomous vehicles, among other items. *ENVIRONMENTAL* The FAST Act builds on the current law’s progress in favor of environmental streamlining and efforts to accelerate project delivery. The FAST Act empowers USDOT and its agencies to serve as the lead federal agency on environmental reviews and sets a 45-day clock on USDOT inviting other agencies into the process. The law requires the lead agency to seek public input as soon as possible and prohibits the re-opening of any issues resolved by the agency unless significant new information arises. The FAST Act also requires the lead agency to prepare an environmental impact statement within 90 days and establish a schedule of completion for the environmental review process as part of its coordination plan. 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email")](mailto:?subject=FAST%20Act%20Summary%20Part%20Two%3A%20Highways&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, congress, FAST Act, gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, roads, transportation --- ### [Alabama’s Infrastructure Grades Are In](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/alabamas-infrastructure-grades-are-in/) **Published:** December 10, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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small](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/ASCE-Alabama-Logo-2015-small-270x185.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/ASCE-Alabama-Logo-2015-small.jpg)The inaugural *[Report Card for Alabama’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/alabama/alabama-overview/)*, released today, reveals that Alabama’s aging infrastructure needs attention, especially its dams. As the only state without a dam safety program, Alabama does not have a complete inventory of all the dams in the state. Without this, Alabama is unaware of its dam safety risk. At the last survey in the 1980s, 147 high hazard dams were found and do not have Emergency Action Plans. Because of the unknowns surrounding Alabama’s dams, the Report Card graded it an “Incomplete,” signified by a question mark to demonstrate the uncertainty caused by of a lack of inventory and dam safety program. With a cumulative grade point average of “C-,”Alabama’s infrastructure is only as strong as its weakest link. All of the highest grades are linked to the lowest grades in the report, as infrastructure works as a system. Plans and funding to address the state’s aging infrastructure assets fall significantly short of needs. Of note: - Only an estimated 2% of all known dams in Alabama are being inspected for safety, maintained, and have emergency action plans in place for use in the case of an incident or failure. Without a dam safety program, communities that live under dams may not be aware of their risk, and emergency action plans for high hazard dams may not be in place to mitigate property damage and save lives in the case of a breach or failure. - The majority of the state’s drinking water infrastructure was installed from the 1960s to the 1980s and operating beyond their useful design life. - 1 in 3 wastewater utility providers statewide report having inadequate rate structures to cover normal operating expenses. - Septic systems are commonly used in more rural parts of Alabama; 25% of the estimated 850,000 on-site septic systems are in failing or failed condition and could be polluting the community’s groundwater. - Alabama has 1,388 structurally deficient bridges, ranking 15th most in the country, with many of these being bridges funded and maintained locally. - Nearly 50% of interstate and state highways are in fair, poor, or very poor condition. Driving on rough and congested roads costs the average Alabama driver at least $300 a year in extra vehicle repairs. - Much of the inland waterway lock and dam infrastructure within the state is breaking down and has passed the 50 year design service life or is approaching it. As an example, Coffeeville Lock and Dam has a throughput of 10 million tons in spite of vessel delay rates and durations in excess of 90% and 150 hours. Released in Birmingham, the Report Card also highlights ways to improve the grades, including: - Finish the dams inventory and pass legislation to create a dam safety program, establish emergency action plans, and use periodic safety inspections to keep communities safe. - Prioritize routine maintenance to save money and prevent emergency repairs across all infrastructure types. - Increase replacement of structurally deficient bridges, which are mostly owned and operated locally. - Create state funding strategies that recognize the importance of functional drinking water, stormwater, and sewer infrastructure to support the economic development of Alabama. [View the full report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/alabama/alabama-overview/) to learn more about the challenges facing Alabama’s infrastructure and solutions to raise the grades. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Alabama%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Grades%20Are%20In&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alabama, Bridges, Dams, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** Alabama, bridges, dams, report card, roads, solutions, transit, transportation, water --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: States Plan Ahead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-states-plan-ahead/) **Published:** December 12, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20States%20Plan%20Ahead&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With the holidays around the corner and a long-term transportation bill signed into law, this week’s headlines have centered on states’ reactions to the funds they have been granted from the FAST Act. In [New Mexico](http://krwg.org/post/nm-delegation-announces-115-million-repair-roads-damaged-september-2014-floods), the state delegation announced that more than $11.5 million will be available to rebuild infrastructure damaged by severe storms and flooding, including areas impacted by Hurricane Odile in September 2014. While this funding does not come directly from the FAST Act, it is provided through the USDOT Emergency Relief Program. In [West Virginia](http://mydailyregister.com/opinion/3408/highway-bill-a-victory-for-west-virginia), the FAST Act will bring in transportation funding over the next five years that will go a long way toward building new roads, repairing existing roads, and fixing dilapidated bridges. In addition to transportation infrastructure, states are looking forward to federal funds being appropriated for[ recreational trail development](http://www.startribune.com/even-with-large-surplus-minnesota-needs-road-transit-funding/360863281/) across the US. In [Oregon](http://www.dailyastorian.com/Local_News/20151210/comments-invited-on-statewide-trails-plan), the Oregon Parks and Recreational Department is inviting public comment on a draft plan for recreational trails. But there are still reminders that this bill does not fully address our nation’s transportation needs. In [Ohio](http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/news/national-govt-politics/no-quick-fix-in-highway-bill/npgrL/), the bill was met with mixed reactions — relief that there will be some funding but disappointment that there will not be the level of increase needed to address the current backlog of projects. In [Tennessee](http://www.commercialappeal.com/business/TDOT-official-Current-state-transportation-projects-could-take-51-years-361495161.html), TDOT has expressed frustration that their transportation needs won’t be done for 51 years, assuming only a 2 percent funding increase and that nothing new is added to what the Department of Transportation already has on its plate. In [Massachusetts](http://www.telegram.com/article/20151210/NEWS/151219820), local lawmakers and civic leaders were relieved to get enough funding for critical infrastructure projects, but recognizing that they must take further steps to provide for their investment needs. While the Report Card shows that we still have a funding gap, we are pleased that Congress passed a five-year bill that increased investment. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20States%20Plan%20Ahead&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2013 Report Card, FAST Act --- ### [FAST Act Summary Part Three: Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fast-act-summary-part-three-transit/) **Published:** December 14, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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five-year federal surface transportation authorization law, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The first part explored the [law’s funding and the future fiscal health of the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/). The second part described [the highway program elements of the law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-two-highways/). The final forthcoming section will focus on the policy changes to federal passenger rail programs.* The FAST Act provides $305 billion for highway, transit and railway programs. Of that, $60 billion is for transit, which represents an 18% increase in public transportation funding over the law’s five-year duration. Most of the percentage bump in transit investment will occur in the first year with the program seeing an immediate nine percent increase. Here is what the transit investment levels look like over the life of the bill: - (Pre-FAST Act) Fiscal Year (FY) 2015: $10.7 billion - (Post-FAST Act) FY16: $11.8 billion - FY17: $12 billion - FY18: $12.2 billion - FY19: $12.4 billion - FY20: $12.6 billion The three main federal transit programs are the Urbanized Area Formula Grants, State of Good Repair program, and Capital Investment Grants. The Urbanized Area Formula Grant funds planning, engineering design, and evaluation of transit projects, as well as capital investments. It currently receives $4.5 billion per year and will receive $5 billion annually by the end of the FAST Act. The State of Good Repair program funds are used for repairs and upgrades of urban rail and bus rapid transit systems that are at least seven years old. This program currently receives $2.2 billion per year and will receive $2.7 billion by the end of year five. The Capital Investment Program distributes funds for major transit capital investments, including rapid rail, light rail, bus rapid transit, commuter rail, and ferries. This program currently receives $1.9 billion per year which will increase to $2.3 billion annually by the end of the FAST Act. In addition to the above changes, the FAST Act also: - Creates a new Bus and Bus Facility Discretionary grant program to address capital investment. This program is funded at $268 million in the first year, rising to $344 million in the last year. The program also includes a 10 percent rural set-aside and a cap that no more than 10 percent of all grant funds can be given to a single grantee; - Creates an expedited project delivery pilot program in the Capital Investment Grant program for projects with less than 25 percent federal funding and those which are supported through public-private partnerships; - Focuses on the need to address resilience in state and local planning by urging a reduction on the natural disaster vulnerability of existing transportation infrastructure; - Directs USDOT to review the safety standards and protocols used in public transportation. The Secretary will then evaluate the need to establish additional federal minimum public transit safety standards; and - Makes $199 million available to assist in funding the installation of [Positive Train Control (PTC)](https://www.fra.dot.gov/Page/P0152) safety technology. 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email")](mailto:?subject=FAST%20Act%20Summary%20Part%20Three%3A%20Transit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** congress, FAST Act, highway trust fund, infrastructure, transit, transportation --- ### [FAST Act Summary Part Four: Rail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fast-act-summary-part-four-rail/) **Published:** December 16, 2015 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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newly-passed five-year federal surface transportation authorization law, Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The first part explored the [law’s funding and the future fiscal health of the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/). The second part described [the highway program elements of the law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-two-highways/). The third summary [described public transportation or transit policy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-three-transit/) and this final section focuses on the funding and policy changes to federal passenger rail programs.* *FUNDING* The FAST Act provides $305 billion for highway, transit and railway programs. For rail, it would continue to provide much-needed capital investment for the nation’s passenger rail network while implementing bipartisan reforms aimed at increasing performance and accountability of the nation’s rail operator for intercity passenger service, Amtrak. The law authorizes $10.4 billion for passenger rail programs over the next five years. This authorization does not guarantee funding as this investment must actually be provided annually by Congress via the traditional appropriations process. Amtrak would receive modest annual funding increases of, on average, $90 million which amounts to a total funding level of $8.1 billion over five years. However, a key change in Amtrak budgeting is that funding will be separated between investments that can be spent on the (profitable) Northeast Corridor (NEC) and the (unprofitable) remaining National Network (NN). Over the life of the bill, $2.6 billion will be spent on the NEC while $5.5 billion will be spent on the NN. Remaining Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) grant programs would receive $2.2 billion over the next five years. *POLICY PROVISIONS* The FAST Act also: - Requires Amtrak to submit profit and loss statements for both the NEC and NN accounts. This will help ensure that adequate investment is being provided for capital infrastructure on the NEC and further seek to end the NEC “cross-subsidy” of long distance, state-supported routes; - Improves the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) program, which provides long-term, low-interest loans for railroad-related improvements, by adding process improvements like approval deadlines to add clarity and reliability for potential borrowers; - Requires infrastructure owners like Amtrak and states to annually produce five-year asset management plans and business line plans based on current authorization levels. There shall be four business line plans: NEC; state-supported routes; long-distance routes; and ancillary services; - Provides further instruction to the NEC Operating and Advisory Commission and the Amtrak board of directors to produce a more sustainable, long-term investment and operating plan for both the NEC and the national network; and - Establishes an independent study of methodologies for determining the cost-benefit and value of routes and services which will be an important process for determining the future scope of the national route network and the offering of intercity passenger rail service. This report will be provided to Congress in 2016 and the Amtrak board of directors will consider the recommendations within 90 days of its release. *ASCE PERSPECTIVE* Our [Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rail/) graded the nation’s rail system at a “C+,” noting that passenger rail service continues to receive record-high ridership levels at 31 million trips in fiscal 2014, up from 24 million in 2005, which included growth across all segments: the NEC, shorter regional routes and long-distance routes. A robust rail system is critical to the nation’s ability to move both passengers and freight as a part of a sustainable development and effective mobility strategy. As regional and intercity transportation corridors in the United States become increasingly congested, investment in intercity passenger rail systems is increasingly attractive as part of an overall transportation mobility strategy to provide added capacity and high quality service. Solely adding more lane miles to the Interstate Highway System will not improve freight movement or relieve urban congestion – there should be a holistic approach to viewing these networks as part of an overall national surface transportation system. 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countries adopted [the most ambitious climate change agreement](http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2015/cop21/eng/l09r01.pdf) in history. The Paris Agreement sets up a long-term framework to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and should keep global temperature rise below the 2 degrees Celsius tipping point. Implications for infrastructure and the civil engineering profession are profound: the plan will drive private investment in renewable energy generation and distribution, facilities generating the dirtiest sources of fossil fuel will be decommissioned, and billions have been pledged on adapting infrastructure and communities to extreme weather events and sea-level rise. For two weeks, top diplomatic negotiators from around world worked frantically to reach the Paris Agreement. There were times that major differences between U.N. super weights the United States and China almost plummeted the deal. The sticking point: how much developed countries would help (i.e. pay) for developing countries to comply with new emissions requirements and assist with climate change impacts already being felt. During the talks, Secretary John Kerry [announced the U.S. would double its commitment](http://www.state.gov/r/pa/prs/ps/2015/12/250495.htm?) to climate adaptation grants for developing countries. The U.S. entered the talks with advantages and disadvantages. Earlier this year, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released the Clean Power Plan (CPP), which will require states across the U.S. to develop carbon reduction plans. In that regard, the U.S. already had a jumpstart on reductions back home. But with the CPP engrossed in court battles, combined with the Republican controlled Congress U.S. negotiators had to strike important balances in the final Agreement. Chief among those: ensuring the agreement was not called a “treaty,” which would require ratification by the Republican controlled Senate. In the end, the U.S. got almost everything they wanted from the deal. While the legal path for the CPP remains unclear, one thing that’s certain is that the energy industry in the U.S. is undergoing a radical shift. This presents an exciting future of building new renewable energy infrastructure and rethinking the way we protect coastal and inland communities from extreme weather and sea level rise. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20It%E2%80%99s%20the%20Most%20Wonderful%20Time%20of%20the%20Year%20for%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The holidays are finally here, which means lots of travel. And with the new year, it will also mean we can look forward to much-needed funding for our nation’s beleaguered infrastructure. According to [AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/tag/holiday-travel-forecast/), the number of year-end holiday travelers will top 100 million for the first time on record. Nearly one in three Americans will travel this holiday season, and more than 90 percent of travelers will be driving to their destinations. AAA President and CEO Marshall Doney said that, “rising incomes and low gas prices are helping to fill stockings this year, and more people than ever will choose to spend those savings on travel.” Aside from holiday travel, many states are beginning to discuss ways to generate more state-level funds for infrastructure projects. [Alabama](http://www.wtvm.com/story/30771007/al-lawmakers-to-hold-hearings-on-proposal-to-raise-state-gas-tax), [Missouri](http://sbj.net/Content/ENEWS-ARTICLES/ENEWS-ARTICLES/Article/Mo-lawmakers-sponsor-bills-to-raise-gas-tax/29/82/103512), [New Mexico](http://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/city-voters-may-decide-on-gas-tax-to-fund-infrastructure/article_982b370f-6054-54be-b09f-52834d273b2e.html) and [Indiana ](http://wlfi.com/2015/12/17/indiana-gasoline-tax-would-go-up-under-house-gop-proposal/)are contemplating a potential gas tax increase for the new year. [California ](http://www.dailydemocrat.com/article/NI/20151214/NEWS/151219955)is considering a new way to raise money for road repairs by keeping track of vehicle mileage with stickers or electronics. In response to declining revenues and increased road congestion, the [District of Columbia](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/263159-how-user-pay-systems-can-help-dc-drivers) is discussing a user-pay system through tolls as a replacement for fuel taxes. While states continue to strive towards solutions to compensate for the funding gap in the FAST Act, we are thankful that Congress passed a five-year bill that will finally jump-start infrastructure projects in the new year. 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Review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2015-infrastructure-year-in-review/) **Published:** January 4, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review "Share on 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Providing grades and facts about 16 categories of America’s Infrastructure as well as the 50 states, the app allows users to easily contact their elected officials directly through the app. The app is available on [Android ](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.asce.reportcard&hl=en)and [iTunes ](https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/save-americas-infrastructure/id989892323?mt=8)for free. **State Legislative Wins Pushed by Infrastructure Report Cards[![Iowa Rail shape logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Iowa-Rail-shape-logo.png "trains")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/Iowa)**[![utah RC shape](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/utah-RC-shape.png "bridge")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/UT) In 2015, both Utah and Iowa rapidly passed transportation legislation reforms on the heels of the release of ASCE’s State Infrastructure Report Cards. In fact, ASCE has released a recent Report Card in 12 of the 15 states that have taken recent significant action on infrastructure. These states include: GA, ID, IA, KY, MD, NE, NH, NC, PA, SD, UT, VT, VA, WA, and WY. **Sharing the Report Card with Business and Industry Leaders** The *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* continues to draw interest from business and industry groups nationwide. Almost 50 Report Card presentations have been given by ASCE leaders to groups ranging from the Dallas Regional Chamber of Commerce to the US/Canada P3 Forum to the Association of Actuaries. Request a presentation to your group by emailing reportcard@asce.org. **[![GC Squares and Title Logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/GC-Squares-and-Title-Logo.png "Michigan-State-Fact-Sheet")](http://ascegamechangers.org/)Highlighting #GameChangers and Solutions** In July, ASCE released[ *Infrastructure #GameChangers* ](http://ascegamechangers.org/)report to highlight the innovative ways communities across the country are modernizing infrastructure. The report highlights trends in energy, freight, transportation and water infrastructure that are changing the way we design, plan, and build projects of the future. [Read the full ASCE 2015 Year in Review here.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-2015-Year-in-Review.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with 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email")](mailto:?subject=2015%20Infrastructure%20Year%20in%20Review&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Iowa, Utah **Tags:** app, gamechangers, infrastructure, innovation, Iowa, report card, solutions, states, Utah --- ### [2015 Federal Issues in Review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2015-federal-issues-in-review/) **Published:** January 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In 2015, the federal government passed several notable pieces of legislation that will increase investment into our nation’s infrastructure and also prepare the next generation of civil engineers through STEM education. Here’s a review of the accomplishments. ![Carper FTTF](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Carper-FTTF-270x167.jpg)US Senator Thomas Carper DE speaking on the Senate floor on the need to FixTheTrustFund**Fixing America’s Surface Transportation Act Passed** As a result of the ASCE’s continued federal advocacy effort on transportation, Congress passed and the President signed the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. FAST provides the first long-term transportation program in more than a decade with five years of increased funding for federal highway, transit and passenger rail programs. Highway investment from this bill increases by 15%, and transit spending grows nearly 18%. Hundreds of ASCE members made personal visits and calls to Congress and promoted the #FixTheTrustFund message making the FAST Act possible. The FAST Act is a step forward for America’s infrastructure. **Federal Water Infrastructure Funding Program Made More Flexible** ASCE joined with water sector partners to make a new loan guarantee program passed in 2014 more flexible for municipalities. The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program previously prohibited combining federal low interest loan guarantees with tax-exempt municipal bonds which left local governments few options for borrowing additional money at low interest rates. ASCE worked to lift the prohibition, and this fix was achieved as part of the FAST Act. **Strong STEM Focus in the New Education Act** ASCE worked closely with Congress as a founding member of the STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) Education Coalition to ensure that the *Every Student Succeed Act*,the long overdue update of the No Child Left Behind Act (also known as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act) maintained a strong focus on STEM subjects. The Act promotes STEM education by: - Maintaining standards and tests in math and science - Expanding high-quality STEM courses - Encouraging development of statewide assessments that integrate engineering and technology concepts - Providing direct grants for students’ STEM educational enrichment activities - Maintaining funding for teacher training **Reducing the National Impact of Windstorms** In September, Congress passed and the President signed legislation to reauthorize the National Windstorm Hazards Impact Reduction Program (NWHIR) providing $21.1 million for 3 years. ASCE was instrumental in the creation of Windstorm Program in 2004, and continues to lead the effort to renew this program. The reauthorization modifies the program by designating the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as the lead agency. The program ensures coordination on federal efforts to mitigate the impact of severe winds with work split among four federal agencies including NIST, the National Science Foundation, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. [Read the full 2015 ASCE Year in Review here.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-2015-Year-in-Review.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2015%20Federal%20Issues%20in%20Review&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2015%20Federal%20Issues%20in%20Review "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=2015%20Federal%20Issues%20in%20Review&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** stem, surface transportation, water infrastructure, windstorm, Year in Review --- ### [2015 State Government Relations Year in Review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2015-state-government-relations-year-in-review/) **Published:** January 6, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Gavel to gavel, ASCE kept a watchful eye on legislative sessions in all 50 states, worked on ballot initiatives in 4 states, and travelled coast to coast educating members on how to engage elected officials, and reaching out to legislators to spread the message of the critical needs of our infrastructure. Here are just some of the highlights from the past year: - [![ASCE Members at Illinois State Drive-In](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/TFIC_T3A0038-270x169.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/TFIC_T3A0038.jpg)ASCE Members at Illinois State Drive In April 2015**Tracking 1,300+ Bills**: ASCE identified 54 priority bills in 31 states as well as tracked 1,308 bills and 308 regulations during the 2015 session. Login with your ASCE Member credentials to see the bills in your state at [www.asce.org/multistate](http://www.asce.org/multistate) - **Increasing State Transportation Revenues**: ASCE Sections in 8 states (Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah, and Washington) supported legislative efforts to successfully raise revenue for transportation infrastructure. - **Protecting Professional Licenses**: ASCE opposed bills in Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Nevada, and Washington that would do away with all professional licenses. ASCE also worked with the Indiana Section to urge their Governor to reject elimination of professional licensure. - **Holding State Capital Events**: Legislative advocacy days were hosted at the capitols of Alaska, California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia. [![Inaugural State Advocacy Captains Training (June 2015)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Group_Photo_6.8.151-270x203.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Group_Photo_6.8.151.jpg)State Advocacy Captain Training June 2015 - **Training ASCE State Leaders**: ASCE State Government Relations Staff held the first State Advocacy Captain training in June with members from 11 states and a second in November bringing members from 10 additional states into the fold. - **Educating State Legislators**: ASCE exhibited with the Washington Section at the National Conference of State Legislature’s Annual Legislative Summit and partnered on the Unmanned Aircraft Systems policy initiative. ASCE also sponsored two Council of State Government Transportation Policy Academies for state legislators and participated in the spring and summer National Lt. Governors Association meetings. [Read the full ASCE 2015 Year in Review here.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-2015-Year-in-Review.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2015%20State%20Government%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FGroup_Photo_6.8.151.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2015%20State%20Government%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=2015%20State%20Government%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure investment, legislation, states, transportation, Year in Review --- ### [2015 Media Relations Year in Review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2015-media-relations-year-in-review/) **Published:** January 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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around the world, including 27 major print and broadcast media outlets and wire services. ASCE members and staff interviewed on everything from the state of the nation’s infrastructure to fixing the Highway Trust Fund to Game Changers to the impact of natural disasters on infrastructure. Here are some of the major highlights from 2015: HBO’s Last W[![John Oliver talking about the American Society of Civil Engineers D+ rating](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/oliver2-270x152.jpg "images-_0000_business")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/oliver2.jpg)eek Tonight with John Oliver (3/2/15) highlighting the state of the nation’s infrastructure - Episode has been viewed more than 5.9 million times on YouTube *[New York Times](http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/30/science/california-turns-to-stopping-water-leaks.html?_r=0)* interview with Greg DiLoreto (6/1/15) about nation’s aging water infrastructure [Katie Couric story](http://news.yahoo.com/america-s-crumbling-infrastructure-katie-couric-explains-170349892.html;_ylt=A0LEVi_11I9WJbwA5mknnIlQ;_ylu=X3oDMTByOHZyb21tBGNvbG8DYmYxBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDBHNlYwNzcg--) on Yahoo (5/18/15) spotlighting ASCE’s Report Card and nation’s deteriorating infrastructure [![Katie Couric - Now I Get It - talking about America's Crumbling Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Katie-Couric-Now-I-Get-It-270x147.png "images-_0005_energy")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Katie-Couric-Now-I-Get-It.png) Op-ed in *The Hill* (7/27/15) authored by Bob Stevens touting ASCE’s Game Changers report. CNBC Closing Bell interview (5/13/15) with Brian Pallasch following the Philadelphia Amtrak derailment Fix the Trust Fund national radio tour led by Andy Herrmann - Total listenership: 11.9 million - Total number of airings: 2,064 - Number of stations airing: 1,814 [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2015%20Media%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Foliver2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2015%20Media%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=2015%20Media%20Relations%20Year%20in%20Review&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, #HighwayTrustFund, highway trust fund, infrastructure, water infrastructure --- ### [State of Our Union Will Strengthen With Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-of-our-union-will-strengthen-with-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** January 13, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fph11.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")President Obama delivered his final State of the Union address on Tuesday evening. [Among the goals he set out was the need to build a “21st century transportation system.”](http://jalopnik.com/obama-wants-to-build-a-21st-century-transportation-syst-1752600954) He went further, p[osing the question](https://medium.com/@WhiteHouse/president-obama-s-2016-state-of-the-union-address-7c06300f9726#.we5p02lvx) of how we can utilize technology to solve our nation’s challenges. Modernizing our transportation network and offering innovative solutions to improve our nation’s infrastructure are key to improving America’s “D+” infrastructure. [Infrastructure #GameChangers](http://ascegamechangers.org/) identifies the top trends in technology and innovation that are advancing infrastructure. While the President did not get into the specifics, these gamechangers demonstrate that America can find innovative solutions to our nation’s infrastructure challenges. From transforming [wastewater into energy](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/water/extracting-energy-from-waste) today to [autonomous and connected vehicles in the future](http://ascegamechangers.org/162/connected-and-autonomous-vehicles), improving our nation’s infrastructure will take ingenuity and investment. [Check out more of the ways that technology is solving our nation’s infrastructure challenges.](http://www.ascegamechangers.org/) In just over a year, the American Society of Civil Engineers will release the 2017 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, providing an assessment of the state of our infrastructure. In the meantime, it’s up to our elected leaders at the federal, state, and local levels to continue prioritizing investment into the backbone of our economy. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fph11.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fph11.jpg&description=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=State%20of%20Our%20Union%20Will%20Strengthen%20With%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, energy, gamechangers, President Obama, transportation --- ### [D.C. Infrastructure Report Card Gives C- Overall, Lowest Grade to Levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/d-c-infrastructure-report-card-gives-c-overall-lowest-grade-to-levees/) **Published:** January 14, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&description=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=D.C.%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20C-%20Overall%2C%20Lowest%20Grade%20to%20Levees&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The *[2016 Report Card for D.C.’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-DC-Report-Card-2016-Report.pdf)* is an independent review of the current state of infrastructure needs, capability and funding in D.C. by the National Capital Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers. The Report Card was written over the past year by ASCE members from the D.C. region who assigned the grades according to the following eight criteria: *capacity, condition, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, resilience, and innovation.* The report grades the infrastructure assets and is not a reflection of the agencies and professionals who work every day to solve infrastructure issues. It is a tool that shows the condition and importance of D.C.’s vital infrastructure assets that support our daily life or can interrupt our lives if we don’t maintain them. To put it another way, **if you drive or ride in D.C., if you drink the water or flush a toilet in D.C., or if you just want infrastructure that works – this Report Card is for you.** **In the *2016 Report Card for D.C.’s Infrastructure*, ASCE assessed 11 categories of infrastructure and found that 3 of them earned poor D grades, 6 earned mediocre C grades, and 2 earned B grades.** **Levees** earned the lowest grade in the Report Card at a D-. Levees protect the capitol area from flooding as well as the Anacostia Bolling base, and both have earned “Unacceptable” ratings creating a need for emergency repairs and an additional $5 million would be needed to finish the work to protect the capitol area. **Transit** received a D grade due primarily to the condition of Metro system and the safety implications of a lack of consistent funding and focus on maintenance. While bright spots exist with new Metrobuses, Circulator bus success, and an innovative Capital Bikeshare, with 85% of D.C.’s commuters using Metro, it should be clear that this should be a priority not only in D.C. but also for each stakeholder in this system. While we know D.C. **Roads** are congested, the D+ grade for roads is in large part due to DDOT needing 4 times its current maintenance budget. For every dollar of need, there’s only a quarter to spend. **School facilities** earned a grade of C- with more than 49 schools reporting at least one “poor” condition structural element, impacting more than 14,000 students. However, almost half of D.C. schools have been modernized which show a tremendous leap in the right direction and a clear investment in D.C.’s future. **Energy** earned a C with $3 billion needed for electricity upgrades and $650 million need to replace 50-year old natural gas pipelines. Both **water and wastewater** were given grades of C+. With pipes’ median age being about 79 years old, we shouldn’t be surprised that there are 400 to 550 pipe breaks each year, but we’re starting to replace 1% per year and renew the clean drinking water infrastructure residents use. Wastewater work is happening right now to expand the capacity of our system that will not only prevent neighborhood flooding but improve the quality of the Anacostia River. **Solid Waste** earned a grade of C+. Our city’s growth is requiring an increase of trucks to take away our waste. While 10% more of it is recycled than a decade ago, we still need to make progress to reach the long-term goal of 45%. We have more **Parks** per person in D.C. than almost any place in the U.S. yet 50% of D.C.’s open spaces have challenges leading to a C+ grade. **Rail** received a B- grade due to the significant private investment of CSX in their rail infrastructure and the Virginia Avenue Rail Tunnel allowing 400,000 freight carloads to pass through D.C. While more capacity is need for rail and passengers, future plans being set today could serve D.C.’s needs and improve our congestion. Finally, D.C. **Bridges** received a B-, one of the highest grades, showing tremendous progress in reducing the structurally deficient bridges from 8% to 3% in just 3 years. The future will require consistent maintenance of older bridges reaching the end of their lifespan, but improvements like this show that diligent management, maintenance, and investment together create the changes we need to see. The Report Card shows us the condition and needs in a letter grade, but what is very clear when you read this report is that innovative solutions to our challenges, like DC Water’s Clean Rivers Project, are going to shape D.C.’s future if we let them. Yes, we have infrastructure challenges, but there are solutions to each of them and some are already on the way and some we need to support to make reality. We’re also going to need to get back to the basics – maintenance needs to be as essential to our budgets as water for hot coffee in the morning. With innovation and maintenance, we can prepare for the future and modernize the infrastructure that will serve us and future generations. #### Read the full *[2016 Report Card for D.C.’s Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-DC-Report-Card-2016-Report.pdf)* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20New%20Year%20Inspires%20New%20Ideas&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F15852963219_7098b26ea7_k1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20New%20Year%20Inspires%20New%20Ideas "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20New%20Year%20Inspires%20New%20Ideas&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The new year is off to a roaring start, with Washington, D.C. releasing its first[ infrastructure report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-DC-Report-Card-2016-Report.pdf), ASCE issuing its Moore, Oklahoma tornado report and many states addressing their infrastructure plans for 2016. ASCE’s National Capital Section released the [2016 Report Card for D.C.’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/ASCE-DC-Report-Card-2016-Report.pdf) January 14, giving the nation’s capital a grade of C- overall, with transportation receiving the lowest individual grade. According to [The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/dcs-infrastructure-gets-a-c-minus--and-transportation-ranks-lowest/2016/01/13/2975bfd0-ba07-11e5-b682-4bb4dd403c7d_story.html), D.C.’s roads are considered some of the [most congested](http://fortune.com/2015/08/26/worst-traffic/) in the nation. An [article ](http://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/jan/08/roads-gridlocked-rush-hour-disaster-terror-superstorm-transport-system)in The Guardian explored how gridlock in D.C. and other U.S. cities not only prolongs daily commutes but also raises concern for safety in the event of an emergency evacuation. It is safe to say that gridlock can be agreed upon by ASCE, lawmakers and the American public, as a paramount issue worth addressing. With the new year, many states are taking a fresh look at ways to revitalize their infrastructure. [New York](http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/New-way-to-pay-for-projects-6757132.php), [Connecticut](http://www.timesunion.com/opinion/article/New-way-to-pay-for-projects-6757132.php), [Indiana](http://www.indystar.com/story/news/2016/01/14/lawmaker-tolling-freeways-fix-roads/78743210/), [California ](http://www.aggman.com/california-governor-proposes-annual-vehicle-fee-to-fund-road-construction/)are all contemplating funding methods such as tolling, gas tax increases and annual vehicle fees to fund infrastructure. ASCE also released its [Moore Oklahoma tornado report](http://www.asce.org/templates/publications-book-detail.aspx?id=18168) this week, which addressed the [findings](http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/state/engineers-say-moore-school-other-buildings-held-up-as-well/article_b77792a2-1167-5307-b5d7-15aa5f4c0fee.html) of a team of ASCE engineers who deployed to Moore to assess buildings destroyed in the May 2013 tornado. While the [report ](http://newsok.com/study-of-2013-twister-damage-in-moore-points-no-blame-at-builders/article/5472379)focuses on the importance of codes and standards in building construction design, it provides important reminders on the need to invest in infrastructure to make buildings more safe and resilient against natural disasters. Whether it be improving our transportation network or improving structural resiliency, our infrastructure requires constant upkeep. In just over a year, the American Society of Civil Engineers will release its 2017 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, providing an in-depth assessment of the state of our nation’s infrastructure. In the meantime, it’s up to our elected leaders at the federal, state, and local levels to continue prioritizing investment into the backbone of our economy. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20New%20Year%20Inspires%20New%20Ideas&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure report card, states --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Winter Weather Water Woes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-winter-weather-water-woes/) **Published:** January 22, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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crisis in Flint, Mich., our water and transportation infrastructure have become a heavy topic of discussion this week. Besides snow days and curling up by the fire, winter weather brings wear and tear on our nation’s roads, water pipes and power lines. [Colorado](http://www.thedenverchannel.com/lifestyle/education/4-schools-closed-due-to-water-main-breaks-mcelwain-coronado-hills-welby-and-monterey), [New Jersey](http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/article/Stamford-water-main-break-leaves-Turn-of-River-6769268.php), [North Carolina](http://abc11.com/news/water-main-break-causes-mess-in-durham/1166387/), [Ohio](http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/news/local/extreme-cold-leads-to-water-main-breaks-across-mon/np7x3/), [Virginia](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2016/01/20/water-main-break-repairs-block-part-of-us-1-at-king-street-in-alexandria/), [Michigan](http://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/detroit-city/2016/01/21/detroit-prepares-increase-water-main-breaks/79147000/), [Kentucky ](http://www.wlky.com/news/Louisville-water-crews-busy-repairing-water-main-breaks/37510230)and [Tennessee](http://wjhl.com/2016/01/19/water-main-breaks-along-east-main-in-johnson-city/), have all experienced water main breaks in the past week due to cold weather conditions. This time of year also magnifies the many potholes that plague our nation’s roads. [Oregon](http://www.bendbulletin.com/localstate/3923637-151/bends-fight-against-potholes-is-an-uphill-battle), [New York](http://www.nydailynews.com/new-york/new-york-city-potholes-bad-roads-cost-driver-800-year-article-1.2503826), [South Dakota](http://www.keloland.com/newsdetail.cfm/weather-conditions-have-potholes-popping-up/?id=189811), [Iowa ](http://www.kcci.com/news/heres-why-there-are-so-many-pothole-this-year/37549840)and [Idaho](http://www.localnews8.com/news/deep-cardamaging-potholes-popping-up-around-town/37515900) all have their fair share of pothole damage that is exacerbated by the cold weather. In [Houston](http://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/news/2016/01/19/134627/city-of-houston-launches-pothole-website/), Texas, Mayor Sylvester Turner even launched an initiative to fill potholes that Houstonians report within 24 hours by using a [website ](http://www.houstontx.gov/potholes/)where residents can track and report potholes. In addition to water main breaks, water infrastructure has also been under scrutiny due to the recent water crisis in Flint, Mich. In his [State of the State ](http://wdet.org/posts/2016/01/21/82321-snyder-to-issue-executive-order-on-michigan-infrastructure/)Address, Michigan Governor Rick Snyder noted that there are pipes underneath Michigan roads that are more than 100 years old. He [requested ](http://thecollegiatelive.com/2016/01/flint-water-snyder-sots16/)$28 million in additional funds from the state legislature to provide for the residents affected by the crisis, provide additional testing for high risk locations and conduct an infrastructure integrity study to fix the pipes and other connections. In [Vermont](http://wamc.org/post/officials-say-epa-estimates-vermont-water-cleanup-low#stream/0), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the five-year cost of cleaning up Vermont’s water is about $154 million. Clearly the importance of diligent maintenance and funding cannot be over-stressed when it comes to our nation’s transportation and water infrastructure. It’s up to our elected leaders at the federal, state, and local levels to continue prioritizing investment into the backbone of our economy. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovation%20Sends%20Snow%20Packing&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With winter storm [Jonas ](http://www.ibtimes.com/winter-storm-jonas-snowfall-totals-2016-blizzard-buries-new-york-new-jersey-2278440)blasting the Northeast with record-setting amounts of snow, our nation’s already stressed [water pipes, roofs and roads](https://www.rt.com/usa/330115-snowstorm-jonas-economic-cost/) were put to the test. While major snow events bring many challenges, they also provide opportunities for innovation. One innovation, coined by The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Chris Tuan, is a [special concrete mixture](http://www.gizmag.com/university-nebraska-lincoln-chris-tuan-conductive-concrete/41495/) that is designed to heat up and melt any snow or ice that settles on it. But Tuan is not the only groundbreaker. A family in N.J. developed its own [geothermal solar snow-melt system](http://paramus.dailyvoice.com/neighbors/who-needs-a-shovel-paramus-family-melts-snowfall-away/620538/#.VqkT6Xl5r0Y.facebook) that applies heat to the driveway and walkways to melt snow. In response to the havoc cold temps can cause on water mains and potholes, a team of innovators in [Syracuse](http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2016/01/city_prepares_a_new_approach_to_its_oldest_problems.html), N.Y. has taken steps toward installing magnetic sensors in their water pipes to reduce water main breaks, and is working with a company that has developed technology to map the city’s road deficiencies. Because the FAST Act will only provide limited funds for infrastructure maintenance, there is still great need for new ways to fund infrastructure. Because of this funding gap, many states are seeking ways to generate funding they need for projects. [California ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/266626-california-testing-mileage-fees-as-gas-tax-replacement)is moving ahead with a Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) program that will involve 5,000 driver volunteers who track their mileage and pay taxes based on miles driven rather than how many gallons of gas they consume. And [Alabama ](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/267348-alabama-considering-gas-tax-hike)and [Oregon ](http://koin.com/2016/01/28/portland-voters-to-decide-10-cent-gas-tax-in-may/)are considering raising their state gas tax to generate more funding for infrastructure projects.s With intense winter weather wearing on our roads and water infrastructure and increased need for funding, it is still critical that elected leaders at the federal, state and local levels continue to prioritize investment into the backbone of our economy. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovation%20Sends%20Snow%20Packing&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** FAST Act, infrastructure, innovation --- ### [House Committee Convenes Roundtable Discussion on Next Federal Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-committee-convenes-roundtable-discussion-on-next-federal-water-resources-bill/) **Published:** February 4, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Back in November[ the committee held a similar discussion in New Orleans](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/congress-takes-first-step-to-develop-new-water-resources-bill/). During each roundtable – a less formal setting than a traditional hearing – committee members heard from industry stakeholders on policy matters to consider for the primary legislation that controls the nation’s ports, harbors, levees, dams and flood control structures. In the past, WRDA bills were completed every two years, but congressional gridlock and the ban on earmarks posed significant problems for the bill in the last decade. [![ASCE President- Elect, Norma Jean Mattei discusses the next WRDA bill with Derek Brockbank, Executive Director of The American Shore and Beach Preservation Association.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/IMG_0521-270x203.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/IMG_0521.jpg)ASCE President Elect Norma Jean Mattei discusses the next WRDA bill with Derek Brockbank Executive Director of The American Shore and Beach Preservation AssociationDuring this week’s roundtable, stakeholders representing the port, inland waterway and coastal restoration industries all expressed optimism on the prospects for a WRDA in 2016. The American Society of Civil Engineers’ President-Elect, Norma Jean Mattei was invited to speak about the poor condition, yet economic significance of the nation’s water resources infrastructure based on the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* In her remarks, Ms. Mattei noted that the previous WRDA bills created important programs, such as the National Dam Safety Program and Levee Safety Initiative. These programs promote and facilitate the inventory and inspection of dams and levees across the country. Ms. Mattei also referenced several other industries that benefit from WRDA bills. Specifically the ports and waterways that receive federal assistance for dredging and maintenance operations. A number of policy reforms were offered, including reforming or improving the Sec. 7001 Annual Report process that has replaced earmarks. Instead of receiving project recommendations from Congressional members directly, which was deemed a violation of earmark policy, now the authorizing committee receives recommendations from the Army Corps of Engineers, through a process known as the Annual Report. A project must be include in the Annual Report to Congress for consideration of authorization. Another resounding message offered by the roundtable participants was the need for better coordination between federal and local sponsors. Concurrent reviews of permits and additional agency staffing were among the suggestions. Finally, the committee was encouraged to look at innovative approaches to project authorization and financing. Beneficial use of dredge material and exploring public private partnerships are all on the table for the committee to consider. Biennial authorization of WRDA bills help cut down on the back log of Army Corps projects and provide the opportunity to update policy to existing programs. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Big%20Week%20for%20Aviation%20and%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week improving our nation’s aviation and water infrastructure were the focus of conversation on Capitol Hill. With a new aviation reform bill, the [Aviation Innovation, Reform and Reauthorization](http://www.aopa.org/News-and-Video/All-News/2016/February/03/Details-of-long-awaited-FAA-reauthorization-bill-revealed) (AIRR) Act, proposed to Congress, the nation’s aviation needs are receiving some attention that’s long overdue. According to the bill’s author, [Rep. Bill Shuster](http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2016/02/03/rep-bill-shuster-how-to-fix-americas-crumbling-aviation-system.html), two-thirds of our 20 largest airport hubs experience delays, and the economic costs of congestion and delays, including the impacts on passengers, top $30 billion per year. The AIRR Act would reauthorize the nation’s civil aviation programs, including air traffic control and infrastructure funding. Of most interest to ASCE, the bill [increases authorized funding ](https://www.enotrans.org/etl-material/federal-aviation-administration-faa-reform-reference-page/)for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to $3.8 billion by 2022. This would be the first funding growth for the AIP in over a decade, which is much needed to improve the country’s “D” grade for aviation. On a different front, Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), John Duncan (R-TN) and Richard Hanna (R-NY) introduced the bipartisan [Water Investment Trust Fund Act](https://blumenauer.house.gov/index.php?utm_campaign=GR-2016-05-02-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&option=com_content&view=article&id=2538:blumenauer-duncan-and-hanna-introduce-legislation-to-help-states-replace-repair-rehabilitate-critical-clean-and-drinking-water-facilities&catid=63:in-the-news&Itemid=220&elqTrackId=C33D18ADF45B8D98E1A5283805C58842&elq=0d83ec13459c47d09f49dec9d2b147b0&elqCampaignId=5746&elqaid=13518&elqat=1), which would [provide funding ](https://news.yahoo.com/national-league-cities-supports-legislation-improve-nations-water-232300779.html)to replace, repair and rehabilitate critical [wastewater ](http://www.waterworld.com/content/ww/en/waste-water.html)and [drinking water infrastructure](http://www.waterworld.com/content/ww/en/drinking-water/infrastructure-funding.html). ASCE will be working with member of Congress to advance this legislation. As our infrastructure ages, we need to continue to invest in it. Therefore, it is critical that elected leaders at the federal, state and local levels continue to prioritize investment into the backbone of our economy. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Big%20Week%20for%20Aviation%20and%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** aviation, congress, water infrastructure --- ### [Department of Transportation Celebrates 50 Years of Safety Innovation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/department-of-transportation-celebrates-50-years-of-safety-innovation/) **Published:** February 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Johnson, the [U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is now celebrating 50 years of making transportation safer for the traveling public](https://www.transportation.gov/50/events). This month marked the 50th anniversary, where USDOT Secretary Anthony Foxx and six former USDOT Secretaries gathered together in D.C. to share the changes they’ve seen in transportation since the department began. When asked what the most significant advancement in transportation was, all pointed to safety efforts and innovations – whether adding seat belts, eliminating drug abuse, or enhancing the operation of transportation systems. In 50 years, we’ve come a long way, and we’re looking forward to where the next 50 years take us. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Department%20of%20Transportation%20Celebrates%2050%20Years%20of%20Safety%20Innovation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, highways, roads, safety, transit, transportation, USDOT --- ### [Senate Takes Turn Preparing for New Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-takes-turn-preparing-for-new-water-resources-bill/) **Published:** February 11, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Senate%20Takes%20Turn%20Preparing%20for%20New%20Water%20Resources%20Bill "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F11%2Fwastewater.jpg&description=Senate%20Takes%20Turn%20Preparing%20for%20New%20Water%20Resources%20Bill "Pin it with 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discussion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/house-committee-convenes-roundtable-discussion-on-next-federal-water-resources-bill/) on what a new Water Resources Develop Act (WRDA) should look like, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works [held a hearing Wednesday](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2016/2/the-importance-of-enacting-a-new-water-resources-development-act) to kick off that chambers work on the legislation. Opting for a more formal setting than the House roundtable approach, the Senate held a full Committee hearing, giving stakeholders an opportunity to express requests for the bill on the record. Norma Jean Mattei, President-Elect of the American Society of Civil Engineers [provided testimony](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/46340645-c573-495c-9853-a01061f44424/asce-mattei-statement-021016.pdf) on the state of the nation’s water infrastructure, using the [*2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). Representatives from the Port of Tusla, Marathon Petroleum Corporation, Nucor Corporation, and North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters also testified. Dr. Mattei testified that the *Report Card* grades for water resources were so bad that failing to address problem could cost 800,000 American jobs by 2020. The grades (Inland Waters Ways D-, Dams D, Levees D-, and Ports C) were so bad that Senator Barbra Boxer (D-CA) asked to enter the entire report card into the Congressional record. Nearly every Senator on the Committee referenced the *Report Card* grades, with Senator Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY) even noting her state’s own report card, [*Report Card for New York’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new_york/newyork/), released in 2015 didn’t fare much better. Airing out the poor grades teed up a more serious conversation on how to address the nation’s aging infrastructure. Nothing was left off the table: aging locks causing multimillion dollar delays at ports, the drinking water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and high hazard deficient dams across the country were all brought up as possible issues to address in the new bill. Lawmakers have promised to get a bill through this Congress, retuning the legislation to its previous two year cycle. All the witnesses agreed that a two-year cycle provides certainty to project sponsors, keeps the price of the bill manageable and helps reduce the backlog of Army Corps projects. Keeping the bill bipartisan and getting enough momentum in an election year will be the challenge moving forward. The Committee will be on a tight deadline to mark-up and pass a bill with dwindling Congressional calendar work days. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Takes%20Turn%20Preparing%20for%20New%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, dams, inland waterways, levees, ports, Water Resources, WRDA --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: The Domino Effect of Water Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-the-domino-effect-of-water-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 12, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20The%20Domino%20Effect%20of%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Recent events, including water main breaks, have renewed attention in our nation’s pipes, sewers, and dams and this week Members of Congress focused on different aspects of our water delivery and water resources infrastructure. Representatives Earl Blumenauer, John Duncan and Richard Hanna introduced the [Water Investment Trust Fund Act](http://blumenauer.house.gov/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2538:blumenauer-duncan-and-hanna-introduce-legislation-to-help-states-replace-repair-rehabilitate-critical-clean-and-drinking-water-facilities&catid=63:in-the-news&Itemid=220), a bipartisan bill that will provide a source of revenue to help states replace, repair and rehabilitate critical clean drinking water facilities. Water infrastructure issues can have a domino effect in a community. Last year alone, American communities suffered more than 240,000 water main breaks and saw [overflowing combined sewer systems](http://www.martinsvillebulletin.com/opinion/sewer-repairs-now-an-issue-nationally-not-just-locally/article_3452b0e8-d078-11e5-a4e8-a728fc7cb43d.html), causing contamination, property damage, disruptions in the water supply, and massive traffic jams. Thus this bill addresses water infrastructure with the intention of alleviating some of these issues. One example of the challenge that comes when a [pipe bursts is in Scranton, Pennsylvania](http://wnep.com/2016/02/11/icy-aftermath-of-water-main-break/). The frigid weather coupled with the gushing water created a blanket of ice for one neighborhood. In addition to drinking water facilities, dams also play a critical role in our daily lives—even if they’re often out of sight, and out of mind. According to the [U.S. Energy Information Administration](http://www.eia.gov/energy_in_brief/article/renewable_electricity.cfm), the biggest source of renewable energy in the U.S. is hydropower, making up nearly half of the U.S.’ renewable energy in 2014. Yet the [Federal Emergency Management Agency](http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1737-25045-8253/1_2010esri_damsafety061711.pdf) (FEMA) has classified about 14,000 of those dams as “high hazard potential.” To repair and update just the high-hazard dams, the Association of State Dam Safety Officials estimates it would cost $21 billion. An article in [Tech Insider](http://www.techinsider.io/us-dams-need-updating-2016-2) features a map that shows the country’s dams color coded by how hazardous they are and points to the need for the National Dam Safety Program to be authorized. [Alabama ](http://www.al.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/02/alabamas_roads_received_a_grad.html)is the only state without a dam safety program, meaning their state’s dams have not been inventoried since the 1970s. As our water infrastructure, in all of its forms, continues to age, we must invest in it. Therefore, it is critical that elected leaders at the federal, state and local levels continue to prioritize investment into the backbone of our economy. 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An article in [USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/02/18/fewer-bridges-need-repairs-but-task-still-monumental/80512038/) featured the progress being made, thanks to the attention towards our nation’s bridges. [ARTBA reported](http://www.artba.org/2016-u-s-deficient-bridges/) that nearly 10 percent of the country’s bridges last year were considered structurally deficient and needed repairs. This is progress from 2014, but there is still a ways to go to get to the 8% by 2020 that the Report Card for America’s Infrastructure recommends. Bridges are not the only concern for drivers. A new study from the [American Automobile Association](http://publicaffairsresources.aaa.biz/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Pothole-Fact-Sheet.pdf) said that [pothole damage](http://fraglaz.com/2016/02/17/this-is-how-much-potholes-cost-american-drivers/) cost U.S. drivers $15 billion in vehicle repairs over the last five years. “The problems range from tire punctures and bent wheels, to more expensive suspension damage,” John Nielsen, AAA’s managing director of automotive engineering and repair, said in a statement. According to the study, two-thirds of Americans are concerned about potholes on local roadways—further evident in Ford’s [announcement of pothole protection technology](http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2016/02/18/ford-offers-pothole-protection-new-fusion-sport-sedan/80555396/)—and the average American driver pays around $300 to repair pothole damage. Bridges and roads are critical to our nation for more than personal safety; they also play a huge role in supporting our nation’s businesses. MBA Central recently released an [infographic](http://www.mbacentral.org/infrastructure-business/) breaking down how the latest surface transportation bill, the FAST Act, impacts our nation’s businesses. The infographic addresses how each category of infrastructure, as categorized in ASCE’s infrastructure report card, plays into the day-to-day productivity of businesses. Because infrastructure plays such a supporting role in our day-to-day lives and the overall economy, states continue to craft ways to fill in the gaps where the FAST Act is not providing enough funds to repair their infrastructure. For example, lawmakers in [Delaware ](http://www.aggman.com/delaware-lawmakers-propose-a-10-cent-hike-on-states-gas-tax/)are proposing a 10-cent gas tax increase, [Nebraska ](http://www.omaha.com/news/legislature/legislators-want-infrastructure-bank-for-roads-projects-but-disagree-on/article_9fabf4e2-a233-5fa9-ba8f-deb83b18bcee.html)is proposing an infrastructure bank, and Tennessee is adopting a 25-year, $8.5 billion transportation plan to cover infrastructure costs. While these state-level steps are encouraging, it is still important that elected leaders at the federal level continue to prioritize investment into the backbone of our economy. As [Vice President Biden](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=40943) has been saying all week, we need good infrastructure to keep America competitive. 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A guaranteed funding source is key to allowing states to effectively plan and execute transportation projects. To aid in this process, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) released last week a report titled “[Approaches to Making Federal Highway Spending More Productive.”](https://www.cbo.gov/publication/50150) The report points out that federal investment in highways does not correlate accordingly with how roads are used. It also finds that federal road funding has been based primarily on formula grants, not taking into account the amount of travel on roads. It goes on to say that while maintaining existing capacity is becoming increasingly more important, investment has not shifted accordingly. The CBO also offers how the federal funding could be more productive and suggests three approaches for Congress to consider, including: - Charging drivers directly for road use more often, including based on traffic congestion - Allocating funding to states based on the costs and benefits of specific projects - Linking investment to performance measures on congestion and road quality The recommendations are another reminder of the insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund and the need to find a long-term, sustainable funding source for the federal surface transportation program. Having these conversation early and often will be crucial to put Congress on a path to find a long-term sustainable funding solution to #FixTheTrustFund before the FAST Act expires. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![Improve and Modernize_Natl Poll_FB](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Improve-and-Modernize_Natl-Poll_FB-242x203.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Improve-and-Modernize_Natl-Poll_FB.jpg)On Wednesday, [the Value of Water ](http://thevalueofwater.org/)released the results of a new poll that finds 95% of Americans believe it is important to improve and modernize our water systems. At a time when a water main breaks every two minutes in the U.S., 60% of respondents said they are willing to pay more for secure water service upon hearing the facts of the state of our nation’s water infrastructure. The new data shows that we must seize this watershed moment (pun intended) to educate people about the true value of water. Our water infrastructure is at a critical juncture, as much of it is past its useful design life. Both drinking water and wastewater received “D” grades in the 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Americans top concerns around water include being able to drink straight from the tap and treating wastewater in a safe and environmentally responsible way, according to the survey results. Our lives and the economy depend on strong and reliable water infrastructure. This latest national survey demonstrates Americans’ understand the significance of our water infrastructure, and the majority believe we should invest in it. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Poll%20Finds%20Americans%20Want%20Modernized%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** Drinking Water, wastewater --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Public Weighs In on Water and Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-public-weighs-in-on-water-and-roads/) **Published:** February 26, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Public%20Weighs%20In%20on%20Water%20and%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With water infrastructure being a hot topic for the past few months, the Value of Water Coalition released [poll ](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/Value%20of%20Water%20National%20Poll%202016%20Presentation.pdf)results on citizens’ attitudes towards water, revealing that the public believes more needs to be done about our water infrastructure. The Value of Water’s poll findings, recapped in the [Huffington Post,](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/water-infrastructure-poll-higher-water-bills_us_56cdf8b5e4b041136f1926e4) show that the majority of Americans want public officials to invest in the nation’s water systems in an effort to avoid tragedies like the lead contamination crisis in Flint. Furthermore, 60 percent of Americans are in favor or paying more to invest in water infrastructure. [Circle of Blue](http://www.circleofblue.org/waternews/2016/world/infographic-the-age-of-u-s-drinking-water-pipes-from-civil-war-era-to-today/) released an infographic that shows the percent of current water mains installed by decade, with many dating back to the Civil War era. The graph gives a stunning visual to accompany the fact that an estimated $1 trillion is needed over the next two decades to replace aging water pipes. While the poll results show Americans are willing to pay more to improve our infrastructure, a new report finds that investment in infrastructure at the state and local level is at a 30-year low. [The Fiscal Times](http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/2016/02/25/Roads-Crumble-Infrastructure-Spending-Hits-30-Year-Low) lays out the key findings of the [report ](http://www.cbpp.org/research/state-budget-and-tax/its-time-for-states-to-invest-in-infrastructure)by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, including a chart that compares capital investments by state. On the transportation front, [The Hill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/270260-us-residents-drove-3-trillion-miles-in-2015) reported that Americans drove a record 3.1 trillion miles in 2015, which accounts for much of the wear-and-tear of our roads and highways. This underscores the increased need for investment in transportation. Drivers in [Colorado](http://www.reporterherald.com/news/loveland-local-news/ci_29564083/public-help-sought-potholes), [New Jersey](http://patch.com/new-jersey/lacey/buckle-worst-potholes-lacey-0), [California](http://www.paloaltoonline.com/news/2016/02/26/city-makes-emergency-repairs-of-state-owned-potholes), [Ohio](http://www.wlwt.com/news/how-to-get-money-back-if-your-car-is-damaged-by-hitting-a-cincinnati-pothole/38194490), [New York](http://www.silive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/02/potholes_slow_down_traffic_on.html), and states across America are all feeling the damage done by potholes. Rough road conditions have become so normal that, according to [Wired](http://www.wired.com/2016/02/fords-diabolical-testing-grounds-feature-potholes-from-around-the-world/) magazine, Ford motor company is adapting the way they build vehicles to endure rougher road conditions. As the new data shows, Americans are willing to make the investment in water, just as studies over the past year prove drivers are willing to pay a bit more to drive on better roads. Now it’s time for our elected leaders at all levels of government to respond to these pleas by making the investment to modernize our infrastructure. 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email")![bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/05/bridges.jpg)“Transportation Funding” was named a top 5 issue by [The Council on State Governments](http://knowledgecenter.csg.org/kc/content/top-5-issues-2016-transportation-expanded-version-resource-guide) for the 2016 legislative session. However, unlike the eight states who raised the gas tax in 2015 (Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Michigan, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah and Washington) we have seen few states make the leap toward investing in infrastructure in 2016. The first state to sign a major infrastructure funding bill into law this session is Rhode Island. The [Rhode Works](http://www.dot.ri.gov/news/rhodeworks.php) program aims to raise revenue that will allow the state to rebuild roads and bridges making Rhode Island more attractive to businesses. By assessing user fees to large commercial trucks it becomes the last northeastern state to adopt this revenue stream. Rhode Island Department of Transportation is hopeful the additional revenue will help them leverage federal dollars and enable the state to tackle maintenance and rehabilitation projects that will bring additional jobs. While Rhode Island has already taken action, ASCE is keeping a close eye on many of the states that appear on CSG’s “[States to Watch](http://knowledgecenter.csg.org/kc/content/updates-states-watch-transportation-funding-rhode-island-turns-truck-tolls-fund-bridge)” list. Here is an overview of what we’re watching around the country: - **California –** Like Oregon to its north, California is embarking on a [Road Charge Pilot Program](http://www.dot.ca.gov/road_charge/). It is currently seeking volunteers to participate in pilot program that will assess a fee based on distance travelled or period of time they use the roads, rather than gas consumption. The pilot kicks off in July 2016 and the findings will be used to develop a model that can be fully implemented statewide. - **Connecticut** – Governor Dannel Malloy has been a longtime advocate for improving the state’s infrastructure. His [Let’s Go CT!](http://www.transformct.info/) plan is a 30 year vision for the future of Connecticut’s transportation system. Investment in this plan hinges on the legislature’s ability to send a “lockbox” measure to the ballot. - **Delaware** – A [10-cent per gallon gas tax proposal](http://www.delawareonline.com/story/news/politics/firststatepolitics/2016/02/17/gas-tax/80225922/) has again surfaced in Delaware. While this may conjure memories of Governor Jack Markell’s push back in 2014, the current proposal is to raise the tax for a single year and revisit the need to continue the tax in the future. This boost in revenue would come on top of the increase in driver’s fees passed into law in 2015. - **Indiana –** This state came into the legislative session with Governor Mike Pence’s [$1 billion transportation](http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/10/13/gov-mike-pence-proposes-1b-road-funds/73862606/) proposal last fall. Fast forward to recent weeks and the gas tax increase that could have been allocated toward these projects is now [off the table](http://fox59.com/2016/02/25/indianas-massive-road-funding-plan-sees-major-changes/). We are keep a close eye as proposed revenue streams change and bills continue to move forward as the legislature is in its final few weeks of session. - **Missouri** – The legislature here once again finds itself debating a gas tax increase. The state finds itself having to make [Tough Choices Ahead](http://www.modot.org/toughchoicesahead/) as it determines whether the current transportation revenue streams will generate enough income for the state to leverage federal dollars. The Governor is in favor of a gas tax increase however, opponents have been successful at keeping a bill from advancing in either chamber. - **Nebraska** – Coming off a session that passed a 6-cent phased in increase of its gas tax, Nebraska is looking to do still more for statewide transportation infrastructure. The legislature is looking to create an [Infrastructure Bank](http://journalstar.com/legislature/infrastructure-bank-for-roads-draws-outside-support/article_3af1a83a-e385-5305-8d9d-bd55c600cc5b.html) with the full support of the Governor. The bill is still making its way through the unicameral legislature. - **New Jersey** – Here the legislature has already decided to put a measure on the fall ballot that will dedicate all gas tax revenue to transportation projects. This is just one of many steps needed to ensure the state’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) remains solvent. The state is currently projects the TTF could be insolvent by this summer and recent reports say [the state has already reached its borrowing limit](http://nj1015.com/new-jersey-out-of-borrowing-capacity-for-road-bridge-work/) for new road and bridge repair work. We are hopeful Governor Chris Christie and the legislature will arrive at a compromise. We also expect to see proposals from Minnesota and Louisiana, which have not yet convened their regular sessions. Whether it is a gas tax, vehicle miles traveled, or public-private partnerships, ASCE supports an [all options on the table approach](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/) to ensuring transportation infrastructure receives adequate funding. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3ADC%20Bridge%20Latest%20Victim%20of%20Underinvestment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week marks the 80th birthday of the [Hoover Dam](http://www.rsvlts.com/2016/03/01/hoover-dam-construction/), which is a prominent example of an invaluable infrastructure landmark that has stood the test of time. The Hoover Dam reminds us of the benefits of investing in quality infrastructure. Unfortunately, another iconic piece of infrastructure was also in the news this week because it hasn’t been getting the investment it needs. The [Arlington Memorial Bridge](http://wjla.com/news/local/dcs-arlington-memorial-bridge-could-close-in-5-years) in Washington, D.C., needs to be reconstructed at a cost of $250 million or it will be closed by 2021. Currently, the park service does not have the money needed to make the improvements. “The bridge is a really good example of what happens when you defer maintenance,” park service director Jonathan Jarvis told The Associated Press. “If the park service had had the funding over the lifespan this past 80 years, we probably could have extended the life of the bridge.” In order to prevent bridge closures and emergency repairs, our infrastructure needs a long-term, sustainable funding solution, rather than a one-time infusion that only lasts a few years. An article in [Engineering News-Record](http://www.enr.com/articles/38935-fix-transportation-funding-for-the-long-run) explained the dismal future of the Highway Trust Fund if Congress does not use the coming years to find a solution. Lack of investment also leads to costly fixes and high [out-of-pocket expenses for drivers](http://www.newschannel10.com/story/31357723/cost-of-bad-roads-comes-from-drivers-pockets). [TRIP](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/Fact_Sheet_National.pdf), a national transportation research group, estimated the cost to drivers is $516 per year. According to [AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/02/pothole-damage-costs-u-s-drivers-3-billion-annually/), potholes alone cost drivers $15 billion during the past five years, and TRIP reported that commuter delays add up to more trips to the gas pump, costing drivers time and an additional $121 billion in wasted fuel. In order to curb some of these costs and rejuvenate our economy, it is important to find a long-term, sustainable funding source for surface transportation before the FAST Act expires. 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policy makers and elected officials on the need to invest in our infrastructure and inspire them to take action. During this presidential election season, many of the candidates have talked about infrastructure. Those conversations are a great sign that Americans are thinking about the importance of infrastructure and the need to improve it and candidates are being asked to share their ideas. In the past week, both the Republicans and Democrats have held debates in Michigan, a state which has been at the forefront of national news regarding water infrastructure over the past several months. In addition to the water infrastructure issues Flint is facing, last year the state legislature finally passed a surface transportation package after many years of inaction and decades of underinvestment. During the Republican Debate, held at the Fox Theater in Detroit—[along the route of the streetcar that’s scheduled to open later this year](http://m-1rail.com/)—Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) was asked “Where are the national Republicans’ plans on infrastructure and solving problems like \[Flint\]?” The Senator answered by discussing the importance of accountability at all levels of government. A few days earlier, Donald Trump talked about infrastructure while answering questions during his [Super Tuesday victory speech](http://time.com/4245134/super-tuesday-donald-trump-victory-speech-transcript-full-text/). During his remarks he commented “You look at the transportation systems they have \[around the world\] and the trains they have. We’re like a third world country.” The Democratic Debate took place in Flint, the city that has sparked national attention regarding lead in drinking water. Both democratic candidates have put forth infrastructure plans of their own. Several minutes of the debate were dedicated to the state of our nation’s infrastructure. First, Secretary Hillary Clinton was asked if her plan was big enough to tackle the needs. Clinton mentioned that the surface transportation bill finally passed after becoming a far more partisan issue than it should have been. She continued, that she would like to go further by adding an additional $250 billion on top of the FAST Act and creating a National Infrastructure Bank, which she foresees leveraging $25 billion of federal investments into $250 billion for infrastructure projects. Clinton concluded that there’s “no doubt” more needs to be done on our infrastructure from roads to airports to tunnels to water systems. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) was then asked about his $1 trillion proposal. He answered by highlighting the American Society of Civil Engineers’ estimate that $3.6 trillion of investment is needed to improve our infrastructure to a grade of B and pointed out that such investment would put Americans to work in good-paying jobs. Debate questions focusing on infrastructure are a positive indicator that the conversation of infrastructure investment is getting serious attention. It’s also a good reminder that while the FAST Act and state infrastructure legislation are to be applauded, there is still much more that needs to be done to modernize our nation’s infrastructure. You can do something about it right now by educating yourself on presidential candidates’ infrastructure plans and [writing your elected leaders about the need to improve infrastructure.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/home) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Presidential%20Candidates%20Get%20Infrastructure%20Questions&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F07%2Faviation.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Presidential%20Candidates%20Get%20Infrastructure%20Questions "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Presidential%20Candidates%20Get%20Infrastructure%20Questions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** elections, infrastructure, infrastructure bank --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Spring coming, increased need for infrastructure funding](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/funding-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 11, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Spring%20coming%2C%20increased%20need%20for%20infrastructure%20funding&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With warmer weather approaching and spring around the bend, the dismal state of our nation’s infrastructure funding is being reflected as several states figure out how to deal with their beleaguered infrastructure in light of dwindling funds. Infrastructure has also been a topic of discussion to pay attention to in the presidential debates. An article in [Bustle ](http://www.bustle.com/articles/146941-the-one-political-issue-you-should-be-paying-attention-to-in-2016-that-everyone-is-ignoring)breaks down each presidential candidate’s mentions about infrastructure thus far in their debates. While each candidate may not have a robust plan of action, the state of our nation’s infrastructure is an issue worthy of discussion at the presidential debate level. States like [Wisconsin](http://www.channel3000.com/news/Officials-say-roads-ranked-4th-worst-in-nation-due-to-funding/38413546), are recognizing the dramatic level to which their infrastructure needs attention, as a study ranks their state’s roads as fourth worst in the nation. [New Jersey](http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/how_bad_are_nj_bridges_8th_worst_in_us_government.html) faces a similar dilemma, as the Federal Highway Administration ranks NJ’s bridges within the top 10 worst in the nation for percentage of deficient bridges, with a third of them in need of attention. [Alabama businesses](http://www.al.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/03/business_leaders_we_must_inves.html) have also been vocal about their need for infrastructure repairs, with the [Alliance for Alabama’s Infrastructure](http://alabamaroads.org/) (AAI) heralding the cry to prioritize funding infrastructure. And in [California](http://www.constructionequipment.com/225-california-transportation-projects-risk), about 225 transportation projects are threatened by the state’s latest decision to reduce the State Transportation Improvement Plan by $754 million this year. In the [Bay Area](http://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/7-key-Bay-Area-transportation-projects-likely-to-6880776.php) alone, seven transportation projects are likely to lose funding and be delayed for years. In light of this, states have been continuing to take funding action, as [shown in a list ](http://www.equipmentworld.com/highways-2-0-states-take-on-the-funding-challenge/)from Equipment World Magazine listing the states that have increased their gas taxes in the past year to fund their transportation improvements. In order to ensure the maximum funding possible for our much-needed infrastructure investment nationwide, it is important to find a long-term, sustainable funding source for surface transportation before the FAST Act expires. 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Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/looking-into-humboldt-countys-water-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 24, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Looking%20Into%20Humboldt%20County%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Looking%20Into%20Humboldt%20County%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ASCE-Humboldt-CA-Report-Card-Water-3.24.16.pdf)** to show the state of the water infrastructure across 19 water systems within Humboldt County, California. The report found that today’s water infrastructure earned a good B grade overall, but to keep a good grade, planning must begin today for the infrastructure that is aging and will need replacement over the next 10 years. The report shows that over the next 5 to 10 years, local agencies need to plan for approximately $90 million in investments to maintain the existing system at its current condition. ASCE was joined by several owners and operators to release the new report; the speakers included: - Yoash Tilles, P.E. Chair, Report Card for Humboldt County’s Infrastructure - Cameron Muir, E.I.T, Practitioner Adviser, ASCE North Coast Branch - Barbara Hecathorn, President, Humboldt Bay Municipal Water District Board of Directors - George Wheeler, President, McKinleyville Community Services District Board of Directors - Greg Orsini, General Manager, McKinleyville Community Services District - Michael Flockhart, Public Works Director, Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria - Marcus Drumm, General Manager, Loleta Community Services District - Mark Lovelace, 3rd District Humboldt County Board of Supervisors This effort follows the release of the **[Report Card for Humboldt County’s Transportation Infrastructure ](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/ASCE-Humboldt-County-CA-Report-Card-FINAL1.pdf "2014 Humboldt Report Card")**in 2014 which reviewed the area’s transportation needs. Together, these reports provide citizens a clear look at today’s challenges and tomorrow’s needs. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Looking%20Into%20Humboldt%20County%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** California, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** California, future, infrastructure, pipes, water --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Transit issues escalate, water needs rise](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-transit-issues-escalate-water-needs-rise/) **Published:** March 25, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20issues%20escalate%2C%20water%20needs%20rise&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The past two weeks have been packed with infrastructure crises and attention—as our nation’s water and transit have received both media attention and public scrutiny. Last week, the nation’s second busiest subway system, the [D.C. Metro](http://www.politico.com/tipsheets/morning-transportation/2016/03/metro-shutdown-shocks-washington-senate-commerce-wants-drama-free-faa-markup-senators-take-to-self-driving-cars-213244), shut down for one full day in order to undergo thorough inspection due to electrical malfunctions. [CBS reported](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/washington-dc-commuters-anxious-for-metro-to-get-back-on-track/) that Metro identified 26 areas where damaged jumper cables and connector boots exist. The abundance of damaged cables reveal a lack of investment. “We need to invest in our system once and for all. We need to establish the dedicated funding source,” [said Jack Evans](http://baltimore.cbslocal.com/2016/03/17/more-unanswered-questions-after-shutdown-of-d-c-metro/), Metro chair. While the D.C. metro’s [maintenance needs](http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/dc/metro-has-330-maintenance-problems/100419297) are pressing, this is just one example of transit needs [nationwide](http://wuwm.com/post/dc-metro-closure-symptom-national-transit-funding-woes#stream/0). The BART System in San Francisco also experienced service disruptions that led to a flurry of frustrated tweets from users. [BART decided to explain](http://www.theverge.com/2016/3/19/11265210/bart-sf-twitter-social-media-infrastructure) that the system, built more than 40 years ago, was not designed to carry the number of passengers who take it today. The Twitter handle went on to highlight the need to increase investment in order to allow the system to function at its best. Aside from transit woes, our nation’s water infrastructure needs remain in the headlines. March 22 was [World Water Day](http://www.waterday.org/), where the White House and 150 other institutions [pledged more than $5 billion](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/03/22/fact-sheet-working-together-build-sustainable-water-future) to improve water accessibility and quality across the nation. The recent [Flint tragedy](http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/03/the_price_of_neglect_michigan.html) reminds us just how important water is to our communities—and yet how fragile our nation’s water infrastructure is. [CNBC reported](http://www.cnbc.com/2016/03/24/americas-water-crisis-goes-beyond-flint-michigan.html) that our water crises goes beyond Flint, and EPA data shows that only nine states are reporting safe levels of lead in their water supply. [The Hill](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-environment/274076-america-deserves-an-a-plus-water-infrastructure) reported on the condition of our nation’s water infrastructure, showing how drinking water contamination, water scarcity, and beleaguered ports and waterways make water one of the nation’s most critical issues. Whether it’s transit or water issues, the common denominator behind these pressing needs is lack of investment. On ABC’s television show “Scandal” Thursday night, character Mellie Grant even made reference to the need to increase investment through the gas tax to [\#FixTheTrustFund](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org/). It is important that all levels of government demonstrate leadership and look for ways to ensure the maximum funding possible for our aging infrastructure nationwide. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20issues%20escalate%2C%20water%20needs%20rise&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FDC_Metro_-_Red_Line.jpeg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20issues%20escalate%2C%20water%20needs%20rise "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20issues%20escalate%2C%20water%20needs%20rise&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** transit, water --- ### [U.S. School Facilities Are $46B Away from Modern Standards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/u-s-schools-facilities-are-46b-away-from-modern-standards/) **Published:** March 29, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=U.S.%20School%20Facilities%20Are%20%2446B%20Away%20from%20Modern%20Standards&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Every year the U.S. is spending $46 billion less on school facility construction and maintenance that is needed to keep our kids, teachers and staff in safe and modern facilities. This is the new finding from the [State of Our Schools report ](http://www.centerforgreenschools.org/state-our-schools)which looks at the condition of the schools we send 1 in every 6 Americans into every day. Almost half of America’s public school buildings were built to educate the baby boomers – a generation that is now retiring from the workforce. Public school enrollment is projected to gradually increase through 2019, yet state and local school construction funding continues to decline. While what is taught in schools is often the focus of elected leaders, it’s clear that the buildings should also be part of the conversation. Here are a few charts that show how your state stacks up in funding and supporting modern school facilities. [![schools state](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/schools-state.jpg)](http://www.centerforgreenschools.org/state-our-schools) [![schools state2](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/schools-state2.jpg "federal-register-logo")](http://www.centerforgreenschools.org/state-our-schools) [![schools state4](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/schools-state4.jpg)](http://www.centerforgreenschools.org/state-our-schools) Want to find out more? Read the full [State of Our Schools report](http://www.centerforgreenschools.org/state-our-schools). Read the [Washington Post coverage of the new report ](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2016/03/23/report-finds-massive-under-investment-in-nations-school-buildings/?postshare=3031458750738844&tid=ss_tw)or take a minute to[ tell your elected officials who make decisions on schools about this new report. ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/onestep-write-a-letter?2&engagementId=187354) [![RC-tell-legislators](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/RC-tell-legislators.png)](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/onestep-write-a-letter?2&engagementId=187354) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=U.S.%20School%20Facilities%20Are%20%2446B%20Away%20from%20Modern%20Standards&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, facilities, future, infrastructure, kids, school, state --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Transit, Aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-transit-aviation/) **Published:** April 1, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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week’s infrastructure headlines. After discussion about the D.C. subway system’s much-needed maintenance, Metro’s top officials [warned the public](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/2016/03/30/fba8ae0a-f688-11e5-9804-537defcc3cf6_story.html) that they may shut down entire rail lines for as long as six months. While this situation could cause inconvenience and frustration, it stands as another in a very long list of examples of the need to invest in our nation’s infrastructure. Chicago’s transit authority underwent a [similar reconstruction](http://www.slate.com/articles/business/metropolis/2016/04/the_d_c_metro_might_shut_down_rail_lines_for_months_at_a_time_that_s_what.html) in 2014, shutting down their red line for five months, where they [invested $425 million](http://www.transitchicago.com/redsouth/) into rebuilding 10.2 miles of rail. This ultimately resulted in increased ridership and shaved off travel time for riders. It is encouraging that transit authorities are taking time to address these issues. The [U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Transportation Statistics](http://www.rita.dot.gov/bts/press_releases/bts018_16) (BTS) reported on Monday that U.S. airlines and foreign airlines serving the U.S. carried an all-time high number of passengers in 2015. It is critical, therefore, that our airports are prepared to support this growing number of passengers. The Senate Commerce Committee is making steady progress on a potential bipartisan version of [FAA reauthorization legislation](http://www.aaae.org/aaae/AAAEMemberResponsive/Advocacy/ALA/Airport_Alerts/2016/The_Week_Ahead022616.aspx). When the Senate returns next week, it could be among the legislation considered by the full chamber. While maintenance for transit, aviation and our roads and bridges may not be as glamorous as new innovations, it is critical to remember that existing infrastructure needs to be coupled with new innovations. For example, [self-driving cars](http://www.siliconbeat.com/2016/03/31/104625/) are reportedly having issues driving on our beleaguered roads, and in some cases are unable to operate because they can’t recognize the faded road markings. It is important that all levels of government demonstrate leadership and look for ways to ensure that our aging infrastructure gets the investment it warrants nationwide. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%2C%20Aviation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** aviation, transit --- ### [A Day to Support Our Ports: United for the Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-day-to-support-our-ports-united-for-the-future/) **Published:** April 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")**[![PortsDay](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/PortsDay.jpg)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/PortsDay.jpg)**Outside of boarding a cruise ship, you likely don’t give much thought to ports. But this is an area of infrastructure that delivers so much to your daily life. In 2014 (the last year with data available), U.S. ports hosted $4.6 trillion in economic value worth of activity. Ports are the gateway to global trade, and in the process create jobs and support communities. Today is the Western Hemisphere’s Ports Day, created to spread the message of the value ports deliver. Millions of tons of food, clothing, medicine, fuel and building materials, as well as consumer electronics and toys, move through Western Hemisphere seaports every day. As an integral link in the freight network, port infrastructure needs the other parts of the system to be functioning well. The first and last mile leading to and from a port are crucial to the ability for a port to move goods. In the 2013 Report Card, ports received a “C” grade. Since then, the FAST Act created a national freight program, which will help prioritize road and rail projects that improve the movement of goods around the country. In addition to the success of FAST Act, Congress is currently considering a water resources bill which could provide policy changes to help the way ports receive federal funding. The Water Resources and Development Act (WRDA) can help maintain and build new ports projects that facilitate important commerce activities. Many ports are making investments to upgrade their offerings and [be able to welcome larger ships](http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2016/03/03/new-breed-giant-megaships-strain-us-ports/81196112/), which are all [\#GameChangers for the industry.](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/freight/preparing-for-the-panama-canal-expansion) Another key part to increasing funding for modernization is the next Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). Congress is making progress toward a bill. If passed this year, it would be back on track for a two-year cycle, which helps provide project certainty and makes the costs of projects manageable. In addition to passing a new WRDA, Congress also has the opportunity to fully appropriate the funds of Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, and put that money toward its intended purpose of dredging. On Ports Day, port leaders from across the hemisphere are gathering in Washington, D.C. for their Annual Spring Conference to discuss how to can best manage increasing freight volumes and remain successful in a dynamic global economy, among other challenges. Most importantly, the group will also continue collaboration on ways the industry can lead the way in terms of job creation and economic growth. We’re proud to join hundreds of Western Hemisphere seaports in celebration of Ports Day. On behalf of workers, farmers, employers, manufacturers and consumers everywhere, ports are truly united for the future. For further discussion on the role of Ports in our economy, [consider attending the Ports Conference in June in New Orleans. ](http://www.portsconference.org/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=A%20Day%20to%20Support%20Our%20Ports%3A%20%20United%20for%20the%20Future&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F07%2Faviation.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=A%20Day%20to%20Support%20Our%20Ports%3A%20%20United%20for%20the%20Future "Share on 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on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=A%20Day%20to%20Support%20Our%20Ports%3A%20%20United%20for%20the%20Future&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** ports --- ### [Underinvestment Led to Transit Woes](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/underinvestment-led-to-transit-woes/) **Published:** April 7, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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(BART)—initially opened around the same time in the 1970s—are facing challenges of being underfunded and ill-equipped to handle the needs of the populations they serve today. In their own ways, each is drawing attention to the negative effects of deferred maintenance. In mid-March, WMATA’s new General Manager Paul Wiedefeld closed the system on a weekday to make emergency inspections and repairs. This unprecedented move exhibited a dedication to and focus on safety. As it should be. Civil engineers, as stewards of the nation’s infrastructure, take an oath to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. And one of the Report Card’s key grading criteria is safety. [Wiedefeld announced he is now working to evaluate the system and identify the most pressing maintenance needs and devising a plan to address them](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/metro-general-manager-says-no-lengthy-line-closures-are-needed-to-make-repairs/2016/04/05/f2a28e04-fb59-11e5-9140-e61d062438bb_story.html?postshare=3151459887692026&tid=ss_mail). The equation to how we got to this place (and to a “D+” GPA for infrastructure more broadly) is simple. Underinvestment + lack of maintenance = deficient infrastructure. [BART’s twitter earned attention](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/03/18/us/bart-talks-back-agencys-twitter-account-responds-to-user-complaints.html?_r=0) when it made these points in response to frustrated travelers. One tweet read “This is our reality” because the system was designed to move far fewer people and many components of the system have reached the end of their useful design life. When a system is frequently delayed, or has to close for emergency repairs the cost to the economy becomes very real. We often talk about how we only notice infrastructure when it’s not working. Well, for riders of BART and D.C. Metro that’s far too often. In some ways, the users in those cities are the “lucky” ones however, compared to the 45% of the U.S. population who don’t have reliable access to transit at all. Between these two truths, the needs are blatant. Large systems in major metropolitan areas, such as BART and WMATA, need funding from the local, state, and federal levels to address the backlog of needs. As more people choose to live in urban areas, the ability to have transportation choices and move efficiently on public transit becomes all the more important. The time to start thinking about how these systems work for the next 40 years is today. And the time to start investing in those systems was yesterday. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Underinvestment%20Led%20to%20Transit%20Woes&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** transit --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Investing in how we move people and goods](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-investing-in-how-we-move-people-and-goods/) **Published:** April 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Investing%20in%20how%20we%20move%20people%20and%20goods&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Airline legislation, port investment and more states vocalizing the need for infrastructure investment mark this week’s infrastructure headlines. According to [The Hill](http://thehill.com/blogs/floor-action/senate/275354-long-term-faa-bill-overcomes-first-hurdle), the long-term reauthorization of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs overcame a major hurdle Wednesday. The Senate’s reauthorization bill would green-light FAA programs through September 2017, addressing airport security issues and more. In addition to addressing aviation needs, this week has thrust a major spotlight on the value and investment needs of our nation’s ports. This week the [American Association of Port Authorities announced](http://maritime-connector.com/maritime-economy/aapa-american-ports-will-invest-$150b-by-2020/) that its members intend to spend over $150 billion in combined infrastructure investments by 2020. The association’s president and CEO, Kurt Nangle, said that “infrastructure investments in America’s seaports and their intermodal connections—both on the land and in the water—are in our nation’s best interest because they provide opportunities to bolster our economy, create and sustain jobs, enhance our international competitiveness.” [Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx expanded](https://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/expanding-transportation-infrastructure-will-move-us-beyond-traffic) about the importance of ports in our nation’s competitiveness, asserting how the looming population growth will affect our freight patterns and flows, which will in turn spill over into our roads and highways. He reiterates how much our ports and highways are interconnected, and both need to be modernized and expanded in order to serve our nation’s needs properly. Many states are taking steps to increase infrastructure funding, either through legislation to raise their state gas tax or expressing their frustration with the state of their own roads and bridges. In [Illinois](http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20160406/BLOGS10/160409950/what-will-happen-if-illinois-doesnt-hike-the-gas-tax), lawmakers are considering raising the gas tax to better maintain roads—a key part of the state’s economy given its location and use as a freight thoroughfare. In [Alabama](http://local15tv.com/news/local/lawmakers-consider-gas-tax-to-fund-road-improvements), lawmakers are looking to increase the state’s gas by six cents, costing the average driver five dollars more per month, and vow to put every dime to road improvements. This week TRIP released a [report](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/OK_Transportation_by_the_Numbers_TRIP_Report_April_2016.pdf) on Oklahoma’s roads, finding it costs drivers in the state $4.9 billion a year because of higher vehicle operating costs, traffic crashes and congestion-related delays, strongly indicating the state’s need to increase funding. Many other states, like [California](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2016-08-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=29516&elqTrackId=B1ABB277B595DC9DCCD2FE0D3D6D22E3&elq=a1e4ee0e1877488296418fd0e30767a3&elqaid=13870&elqat=1), [Idaho](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2016-08-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=29514&elqTrackId=689FFBDBBB0B7DFD6C8EC81469E56CE1&elq=a1e4ee0e1877488296418fd0e30767a3&elqaid=13870&elqat=1), [Michigan](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2016-08-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=29511&elqTrackId=39FA23C1E0DCE8DD1CE98D6FFE47EBAD&elq=a1e4ee0e1877488296418fd0e30767a3&elqaid=13870&elqat=1), [Minnesota](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2016-08-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=29510&elqTrackId=F4914BC6A6987A3A26F494A929A6F4CB&elq=a1e4ee0e1877488296418fd0e30767a3&elqaid=13870&elqat=1), [Mississippi](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2016-08-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=29509&elqTrackId=20CDCE3FA110C52E6993FC9DF2ABC8D7&elq=a1e4ee0e1877488296418fd0e30767a3&elqaid=13870&elqat=1) and more are voicing increased discontentment with their roads and bridges and are continuing conversations about a solution. In order to meet the increasing demands of our nation’s road, bridge and port needs, it is important to find a long-term, sustainable funding source for surface transportation before the FAST Act expires. 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Lead by the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) and several other sponsoring organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) the week provided an opportunity for water industries to join together with a single voice and stress the importance of providing clean water services to the public and the role of the federal government. On Tuesday, water experts took to Capitol Hill to discuss federal water issues, including responding to the Flint, Michigan water crises, the need to increase federal water infrastructure appropriations and educate lawmakers on newly authorized but stalled financing programs such as the [Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act](https://www.epa.gov/wifia/learn-about-water-infrastructure-finance-and-innovation-act-program) (WIFIA). Water infrastructure has become a hot topic on Capitol Hill over the last several months as the story of Flint, Michigan shot into the national spotlight after that city was found to have exceptionally high levels of lead in its drinking water. Lead exposure is extremely dangerous to children. The crises ignited a national conversation about water infrastructure systems and the role of local and federal government in ensuring the systems are safe and well maintained. Other water issues from around the country discussed this week included alleviating drought in the west, managing combined sewer overflows and storm water management in mid-sized, sprawling cities. To alleviate drought, many experts have argued for investments in desalination, water reuse and adding storage capacity in western reservoirs. To combat combined sewer overflows, which the [EPA recently estimated](https://www.epa.gov/cwns/clean-watersheds-needs-survey-cwns-report-congress-2012) will cost nearly $50 billion to fix, some cities are investing [in green infrastructure projects](https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure). Green infrastructure can help reduce both CSO and stormwater issues by mitigating the amount of stormwater entering a combined system, by letting the water naturally infiltrate where it falls with the use of bioswales and natural retention areas. Water week is timely this year not only because the need to shine a light on the crisis in Flint, but also because Congress is considering a range of options to address water infrastructure issues in the upcoming Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), slated to be marked up by the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) at the end of the month. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Invest%20Now%20or%20Pay%20Later&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Water and transit have each had their fair share of media attention this week. Water Week has highlighted our nation’s water infrastructure conditions and transit hearings and incidents are reinforcing investment needs. [Water Week](http://www.waterweek.us/) highlighted diverse needs across the country as more than 100 water and wastewater utility managers, operators and engineers visited Washington, D.C. to advocate for more federal investment in water infrastructure. There have been many articles about the state of our nation’s [drinking water](http://ensia.com/features/our-drinking-water-systems-are-a-disaster-what-can-we-do/), [water main ruptures](http://www.wateronline.com/doc/kansas-city-fights-water-main-breaks-predictive-analysis-0001), and [water infrastructure overall](http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/64363/), further pointing to the need for solid investment and maintenance. Transit needs also continue to dominate the news. While [transit centers](http://hereandnow.wbur.org/2016/04/13/public-transportation-lessons) in Brazil, Saudi Arabia, India and China are building new subways, subways in [even our wealthiest cities](https://www.popularresistance.org/why-is-us-unwilling-to-pay-for-good-public-transit/) are suffering from lack of maintenance. In our nation’s capital, the Metro subway system has been encountering [many issues](https://washington-dc-metro.com/) lately that have prompted Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to [work towards a diligent plan](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/metro-needs-dedicated-funding-and-a-greater-federal-contribution/2016/04/08/ba6653a4-fc3a-11e5-9140-e61d062438bb_story.html) of repair and maintenance. In order to provide adequate maintenance, Metro needs [$25 billion over the next 10 years](http://wamu.org/news/15/12/02/same_prices_same_service_levels_proposed_under_metros_latest_budget) to run the system. Yet [Congress denied Metro](https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJlbWFpbCI6Im93b2xmZXJ0ekBhc2NlLm9yZyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2xpbmtfaWQiOiIxMTYiLCJzdWJzY3JpYmVyX2lkIjoiNTcwNDI3MzA2IiwibGlua19pZCI6IjY2Njg0ODYxIiwidXJpIjoiYnAyOmRpZ2VzdCIsInVybCI6Imh0dHA6Ly93d3cud2FzaGluZ3RvbnRpbWVzLmNvbS9uZXdzLzIwMTYvYXByLzEzL2hvdXNlLWdvcC1yZWJ1ZmZzLXJlcXVlc3QtZm9yLW1ldHJvLWZ1bmRzLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAxNjA0MTQuNTc3NzM2MDEifQ.9c7HwvWWlKETwM2WKUIzVyBVbow87zewMfxP8IuVzKo) increased funding to put towards Metro repairs. It is important to have a holistic view of infrastructure, because poor transit and water infrastructure affects our competitiveness as a nation overall. An article in [MSN](http://www.msn.com/en-us/money/other/opinion-our-crumbling-infrastructure-is-hurting-us-competitiveness/ar-BBrHwFN) explained how declining quality, reliability and safety of our transportation infrastructure affects business costs and job growth. In just a few weeks, ASCE will be releasing its updated [Failure to Act Economic Study](http://www.asce.org/failure_to_act_economic_studies/) to reflect the latest numbers on how failing to invest in infrastructure is affecting our nation’s competitiveness. In order to meet the increasing demands of our nation’s water and transit needs, it is important that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding that will revitalize these sectors. 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However, in addition to tackling the question of infrastructure, some states have lumped in professional practice issues like “qualifications based selection” (QBS) as they contemplate their budgets and efficiencies. Despite the fact that the increases in investment have come more slowly this session, ASCE and its members stepped forward on a number of bills to ensure the Society’s position was heard and bills were advanced, and halted, as needed. Here is just a taste of the activity we’ve been following from coast to coast: - **Alabama** – Just a vote away from seeing a [6-cent per gallon increase](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=185073). This will be the state’s first increase in nearly 25 years. The legislature here opted to pair the increase with the creation of the Alabama Transportation Safety Fund the recipient of the newly generated revenue. The Safety Fund has already been passed into law and is simply awaiting a final vote of its would-be funding source. - **Connecticut** – Governor Dannel Malloy’s is looking to advance his [Let’s Go CT!](http://www.transformct.info/) Plan, a 30 year vision for the future of Connecticut’s transportation system. As the legislature nears the end of its session it has yet to [approve the “lockbox” ballot measure](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?8&engagementId=187653) that is a critical component to protecting the state’s investment in its transportation infrastructure. - **Georgia & Kansas –** While over 700 miles separate these state capitals legislators here seemed to be of like minds this session. Georgia introduced [SB 366](http://www.legis.ga.gov/Legislation/20152016/158978.pdf) a bill that would have eliminated QBS for transportation contracts. ASCE [opposed this bill](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-304---qualifications-based-selection-of-professional-engineers/) and it found itself stalled in the House Transportation Committee. The legislature is looking to study the impact of the bill this summer. Meanwhile in Kansas, a study was commissioned that encouraged legislatures to consider introducing a similar anti-QBS bill as a means of more effectively using state funds. ASCE is also [opposing this concept](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?11&engagementId=177097) and to date we have not seen a bill. - **Indiana –** While the legislature did not pass Governor Mike Pence’s [$1 billion transportation](http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2015/10/13/gov-mike-pence-proposes-1b-road-funds/73862606/) proposal, it did pass a transportation package. The plan ultimately passed, relies on transfers from the general fund and the [Major Moves 2020 Fund](http://www.in.gov/indot/3238.htm) as well as creating mechanisms to increase funding at the local level. In addition to addressing the funding question, the package also creates additional mechanism for distributing transportation funds to localities as well as commissions a study to develop a long term maintenance plan. - **Missouri** – Now finds itself just one vote away from putting a [6-cent per gallon gas tax increase](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?5&engagementId=191697) on the November ballot. While the bill, [SB 623](http://www.senate.mo.gov/16info/pdf-bill/perf/SB623.pdf), seemed to have stalled early on in the session. It received a breath of fresh air when green-lighted by State Senator Doug Libla. The bill which originally included a 1.5 cent per gallon increase, saw the threshold increased to 6.5 cents per gallon and quickly made its way to the House. - **Nebraska** – Building on its successful increase of the gas tax in 2015, the Nebraska Legislature returned this session with a desire to protect the additional revenue it will generate. It passed into law the [Transportation Innovation Act](http://kwbe.com/local-news/nebraska-governor-signs-infrastructure-bank-bill/) which creates an Infrastructure Bank which will initially receive $50 million from cash reserves and an expected $400 million from the additional revenue generated thanks to the gas tax increase. - **West Virginia –** The legislature here came close to seeing a 3-cent per gallon gas tax increase as it brought its session as a close in March. [SB 555](http://www.legis.state.wv.us/legisdocs/chamber/2016/RS/floor_amends/SB555%20SFA%20PLYMALE%203-1%20_1.htm) picked up momentum back as the session entered its final two weeks but, did not have enough time to clear the House. We’re hopeful this momentum will tee up the legislature to introduce similar legislature upon their return in January 2017. While some state legislatures will be bringing their sessions to a close in the upcoming weeks others are just now approaching a mid-point in their calendar year. ASCE will continue to keep a close eye on the states as they head into summer recesses and interim work periods. In addition to the bills still on the table for Alabama, Connecticut, and Missouri, we are hopeful we will see additional activity from states like [Minnesota](https://www.minnpost.com/politics-policy/2016/04/not-adding-halfway-through-session-legislative-leaders-remain-far-apart-key-) and [South Carolina](http://www.myrtlebeachonline.com/news/state/south-carolina/article72584092.html), that have discussed transportation funding proposals for the last couple session but, have not yet taken action. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Legislatures%20Focus%20on%20Infrastructure%20and%20Professional%20Practice%20Issues&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure investment, transportation --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: National Parks, Aviation and Innovation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-national-parks-aviation-and-innovation/) **Published:** April 22, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20National%20Parks%2C%20Aviation%20and%20Innovation&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FEntering_Jasper_National_Park_on_Trans-Canada_16_from_the_west-1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20National%20Parks%2C%20Aviation%20and%20Innovation "Share on 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headlines. This year marks the 100th anniversary of our National Park Service. According to [National Geographic](http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/04/160419-national-parks-centennial-sally-jewell-parks-week/), the National Park maintenance backlog has reached nearly $12 billion, the worst in the system’s history. It is important to invest in our nation’s national parks not only because they are popular, but because of the [economic value](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/public-parks-and-recreation/conditions-and-capacity) they offer. In March, the House Natural Resources Committee approved the National Park Service Centennial Act, which would provide nearly $50 million annually for national park needs. Also, the [energy bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2012?utm_campaign=GR-2016-22-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) that the Senate just passed, would add $25 million for these park projects as well as $150 million for deferred park maintenance needs. While these funding initiatives are a step in the right direction, [much more needs to be done](http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/analysis/2016/04/20/why-we-need-to-restore-and-protect-our-national-parks-for-the-next-100-years) to protect and maintain our National Park System for the next 100 years. This week was also a big one for aviation as the Senate finally passed the [FAA Reauthorization Bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/636?utm_campaign=GR-2016-22-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua). House leadership must now decide whether to try to amend the Senate’s bill to more closely resemble Rep. Shuster’s bill, which includes air traffic control privatization, or to pass a less controversial version of the bill. The current extension of FAA runs until July 15. An op-ed in [The Hill](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/technology/276667-modernizing-americas-airports-a-critical-step-to-modernizing) expands upon the importance of modernizing our airports to make sure they can accommodate increased passenger and cargo demand. The article also suggests that modernizing the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) user fee would be a good step in that direction, as it would allow more local control thereby making airports less reliant on increasingly limited federal funds. Unfortunately neither the House nor Senate bill adjusts the PFC. Aside from addressing National Parks and aviation, there have been a few articles this week exploring the potential of technology and innovation in improving our infrastructure. The TransitCenter and Center for Neighborhood Technology just released a [new interactive tool](https://nextcity.org/daily/entry/alltransit-online-tool-data-transit-access) called [AllTransit](http://alltransit.cnt.org/), which collects data from more than 800 transit agencies into a comprehensive set of metrics and maps that break down public transportation opportunities by census block. All of this information is then collected into a performance score between one and 10, revealing the conditions of the nation’s transit agencies. An article in [Fusion](http://fusion.net/story/293714/real-future-episode-16-broken-city/) magazine also outlined the role of technology in addressing our infrastructure problems, exploring the idea of developing tools to keep our cities from deteriorating further. In Los Angeles, a group of public sector technologists have banded together to try and solve the city’s infrastructure problems using home-grown tools like sewer drones and traffic dashboards. Innovative ideas like these are also highlighted in ASCE’s [GameChangers](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report, which shows how communities across the country have developed solutions to infrastructure challenges. In order to innovate and improve our infrastructure needs nationwide, it is important that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding that will allow for such improvement. 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Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dam-rehab-bill-introduced-in-senate/) **Published:** April 26, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Dam%20Rehab%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FRC-tell-legislators.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Dam%20Rehab%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate "Share on 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This is a promising step in the effort to improve the nation’s aging dams, which received a “D” grade in the 2013 Report Card. Dams are a vital part of the nation’s aging infrastructure, providing enormous benefits to the majority of Americans including drinking water, flood protection, renewable hydroelectric power, navigation, irrigation and recreation. Yet there are more than 4,000 dams that are determined to be unsafe or deficient. Through a grant program, the bipartisan bill proposes $600 million over 10 years to go toward dam rehab. It will help local communities that lack funding to rehabilitate, repair, or remove a high hazard dam before it breaches. As Sen. Reed said[ in a press release issued by ASCE](http://www.asce.org/templates/press-release-detail.aspx?id=20801) “By assisting in the repair or removal of high hazard dams before they fail, the bill makes an investment in future cost savings, not to mention lives and property saved.” This bill would allow communities to make the preemptive investment into aging infrastructure, and in the process make the communities below a dam safer. The legislation was referred to the Senate’s Environment & Public Works Committee. Since the bill’s introduction, the Senate’s Water Resources Development Act 0f 2016 section by section summary was released. The bill includes a very similar program, named in Section 3004 as the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams. [Send a letter to your Senators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=197453) asking them to support S. 2835, which will address aging dams that protect our communities and provide benefits to our economy. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Dam%20Rehab%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, WRDA --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Dams, Potholes…](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-dams-potholes/) **Published:** April 29, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Dams%2C%20Potholes%E2%80%A6&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")A new dam rehabilitation bill introduced in the Senate and continued attention to our nation’s water and surface infrastructure needs marked this week’s infrastructure headlines. [The High Hazard Potential Small Dam Safety Act](http://www.bondbuyer.com/news/washington-infrastructure/bill-would-increase-federal-funds-for-replacement-of-dangerous-dams-1102337-1.html), a Senate bill sponsored by bipartisan lawmakers, would provide the first non-emergency federal grants to help local governments repair or replace aging dams to ensure public safety. The measure would provide $600 million of matching grants to states, local governments, and water districts over the next 10 years, with the federal program picking up 65% of the costs. We believe this act is a great step, as there are 85,000 dams in the U.S. and the average age is 52 years old. Dams aren’t the only facet of infrastructure that needs critical attention. According to [Politico Magazine](http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2016/04/what-works-mayors-survey-flint-infrastructure-213854)’s fifth national Mayors Survey, nearly 1 in 3 American mayors think that they may have already hurt their own citizens by making cost-saving decisions on critical infrastructure. According to the survey, the top concerns were roads and bridges, followed by water quality and pipe stability. However, mayors are struggling to find the money from their governors and states to properly address their infrastructure maintenance issues. Mayors aren’t the only ones who are fed up with deteriorating infrastructure. A [Mississippi resident](http://mashable.com/2016/04/27/pothole-birthday-party/?utm_cid=mash-com-fb-pete-link#TsWy_tHclqq6) expressed his frustration with our beleaguered roads by actually throwing a local pothole a birthday party. After several local news outlets reported on the pothole party, city officials finally filled it in, and will proceed to pave the surrounding area. This action, though comedic, is telling of the level to which our nation is collectively frustrated with poor infrastructure. In a little under one month, we will celebrate Infrastructure Week to remind us all of the critical role that infrastructure plays in our economy, quality of life, safety and communities. You can support Infrastructure Week by sharing [this thunderclap](https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/40665-infrastructure-matters) and remind everyone how [\#InfrastructureMatters. ](https://twitter.com/hashtag/infrastructurematters) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Dams%2C%20Potholes%E2%80%A6&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FAkosombo_Dam_is_spilling_water_Ghana.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Dams%2C%20Potholes%E2%80%A6 "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Dams%2C%20Potholes%E2%80%A6 "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Dams%2C%20Potholes%E2%80%A6&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, Infrastructure Week, Potholes --- ### [Water Resources Bill Passes Senate Committee](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-resources-bill-passes-senate-committee/) **Published:** May 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Passes%20Senate%20Committee&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Passes%20Senate%20Committee "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Passes%20Senate%20Committee&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On April 28 the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) advanced a new [Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2848) by a vote of 19-1. The $9 billion bill authorizes new projects and studies at the Army Corps of Engineers, adds a dam rehabilitation component to the National Dam Safety Program, establishes a new Water Infrastructure Trust Fund and provides $220 million in aid for Flint, Michigan. The last WRDA bill passed Congress in 2014. Water resource bills were once viewed as so important that Congressional leaders tried to pass one every two years. The legislation is the main mechanism for authorizing new projects at the Army Corps of Engineers—the nation’s largest manager of flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects. But with partisanship, fiscal constraints and a self-imposed a ban on earmarks, getting these important projects approved and funded has become more and more difficult. WRDA bills also can provide policy changes to existing programs across the federal government on issues such as drinking water and wastewater, which have become increasingly important in the wake of the Flint, Michigan lead crises. The legislation approved last week will address western drought issues, increase federal drinking water and clean water infrastructure funding, strengthen the nation’s levees, and make changes to the nation’s dredge material policy, making it easier to use for ecosystem restoration projects. These issues were important to several members of the Committee from western states, coastal states and states with older water infrastructure systems. Important to the civil engineering profession was that both the dam rehabilitation program and drinking water revolving fund program will be subject to Qualifications Based Selection (QBS)/Brooks Act requirements—another priority of ASCE. The strong vote for the bill is a rarity in Congress and committee staff are optimistic the bill will advance to the Senate floor at the beginning of summer. The House is expected to introduce their version of the bill in late May. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Passes%20Senate%20Committee&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, Drinking Water, Water Resources, WRDA --- ### [Closing America’s Infrastructure Gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/closing-americas-infrastructure-gap/) **Published:** May 9, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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2016](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/fta-2016.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf)Failure to Act 2016 Report Infrastructure is the backbone of our economy and when it’s not maintained all Americans feel the effects, but what does that look like in dollars for my family, my business and the overall economy? The American Society of Civil Engineers’ new economic study, [***Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future*** ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf)will be released on May 10th and will highlight exactly how much America’s infrastructure investment gap is impacting the U.S. economy and household income. The report quantifies how the failure to invest in our aging infrastructure impacts the economy, including: - GDP - jobs - personal disposable income, and - business sales. [Download the new report.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Closing%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Gap&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Closing%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Gap "Share on 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The economic study, [an update to the initial series ASCE released prior to the 2013 Report Card](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact), identifies the 10-year needs across 10 categories of infrastructure is $3.3 trillion, including a $1.4 trillion investment gap. The $1.4 trillion investment gap comprises: - **$1.1 trillion throughout the surface transportation network including roads, bridges, transit, and commuter rail.** - **Electricity infrastructure requires an additional $177 billion.** - **The third highest investment gap is $105 billion for water and wastewater infrastructure.** - **Airports, including the highly anticipated NextGen technology upgrade, require an added $42 billion.** - **America’s inland waterways and ports need an additional $15 billion to close their funding gap.** Our overdue infrastructure bill is costing us time and money. The report identifies the following economic ramifications: - **$3.9 trillion in GDP, more than the 2013 GDP of Germany** - **$7 trillion of business sales** - **2.5 million job losses in the year 2025** - **$3,400 in a family’s annual disposable income each year from 2016 to 2025, equal to $9.33 a day.** These findings underscore the findings of the initial Failure to Act series, showing the economic benefits of infrastructure investment reverberate through every sector of the economy, while the economic losses that come from deferred investment also become worse over time. Furthermore, the longer we delay the more likely we are to need to replace the infrastructure rather than repair it. America is currently spending more failing to act on our investment gap then we would to close it. Inefficient infrastructure is costing every household $9.30 a day. However, if every family instead invested an additional $3 a day per household, we could close the infrastructure investment gap in 10 years. By increasing the investment by $144 billion a year for the next 10 years at the federal, state and local levels, we can upgrade our infrastructure, and protect our GDP, jobs, families’ disposable income and our nation’s competitiveness. 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While Congress has been hit or miss on infrastructure issues this Congress, yes on Surface Transportation, not so much on resilience and building sciences, the White House has recently begun to place more emphasis on resiliency. Highlights of the White House emphasis include a February 2nd [White House Summit on Earthquake Resilience](https://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2016/02/02/advancing-earthquake-resilience) and the related Executive Order entitled Establishing a Federal Earthquake Risk Management Standard for Federal buildings; the Presidential Proclamation establishing [May as Building Safety Month](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/04/29/presidential-proclamation-national-building-safety-month-2016); and this week’s [Conference on Resilient Building Codes](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2016/05/10/fact-sheet-obama-administration-announces-public-and-private-sector). While these efforts will not have the impact of a major new initiative or Congressional approved programs, and comes with no real additional funding, these events do serve to use the White House’s “bully pulpit” to highlight the increasing natural hazards risks and the importance of resilience and buildings codes in mitigating these risk. The development of standards, model building codes, and the local and state adoption as the building code are largely outside of Federal authority. The Federal government does have a role, as funder of research, as coordinator of technology transfer and knowledge dissemination, and as a cheerleader in rallying the many players involved. The American Society of Civil Engineers is supportive of the White House effort and played a major role this week’s conference, which focused on the critical role codes and standards play in achieving a resilient nation. ASCE joined with other groups representing standard developers, code officials, scientist, insurers, local governments, federal agencies and industries, to share insights, recent successes in developing resilient building codes, and perhaps more challenging, encourage their adoption nationwide. The Society had two representatives at this week’s event: Richard Wright, Ph.D, NAE, Dist.M.ASCE, Chair of the ASCE Committee on Adaption to a Changing Climate, who participated in a panel addressing Climate Change and the Implications for Buildings and James Rossberg, PE, F.SEI, M.ASCE, ASCE’s Managing Director of Engineering Programs, who joined a panel on Resilience in the Codes and Standards Community. [Watch the video of the conference here](https://www.whitehouse.gov/photos-and-video/video/2016/05/10/white-house-conference-resilient-building-codes). In the absence of Congressional action on such pending issues as the reauthorization of the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), reauthorization of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the passage the National Mitigation Investment Act, cheerleading from the White House is, at least, trying to push the nation in the right direction. 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](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/)See what’s happening near you! #### [**Infrastructure Week Calendar of Events**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Saturday, May 14**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | |---|---|---|---| | [9:30 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [WTS-DC: Complete Streets Bike Tour of Arlington, VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Arlington VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Women’s Transportation Seminar – DC Chapter](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [10:00 am – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boston Infrastructure Day: Holyoke’s Great Stone Dam and Canals](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boston MA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Monday, May 16**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 10:45 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week Kickoff Event](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week Steering Committee](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 9:00 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Sewer Walk: Up Close and Personal](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Cleveland OH](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 9:00 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Virtual Tour of Virginia Initiative Plant Nutrient Reduction Improvement Project](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Norfolk VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [HRSD, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [National League of Cities Press Call and Report Launch: Paying for Infrastructure in a New Era of Federalism](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Online Webinar](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [National League of Cities](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Bridge Street Pump Station Groundbreaking Ceremony](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Hampton VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [HRSD, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [1:00 pm – 2:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Bipartisan Policy Center Executive Council on Infrastructure: Bridging the Gap Together: A New Model to Modernize U.S. Infrastructure](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Bipartisan Policy Center](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [1:00 pm – 3:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ONLINE WEBINAR: Opportunities in Expanding Access to Broadband for Local Leaders](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Online Webinar](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [National Association of Counties, National League of Cities, National Telecommunications and Information Administration](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [3:00 pm – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Cheaper, Safer Faster: How Disruptive Technologies are Changing How We Build and Operate Infrastructure](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Eno Center for Transportation](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Tuesday, May 17**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE Infrastructure Day at the Pennsylvania State Capitol](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Harrisburg PA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE PA Section](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:00 am – 3:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [I-49 South Day in the Louisiana State Capitol](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Baton Rouge](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [I-49 South Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:30 am – 11:30 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [How Tampa is Driving the Future of Transportation](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Tampa FL](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Building America’s Future, HNTB Companies](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Press Event: A Public-Private Partnership to Improve Water and Wastewater Services](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Camden NJ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Water, City of Camden, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:30 am – 1:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week 2016 Capitol Hill Roundtable and Luncheon: A Vision for U.S. Infrastructure in the Year 2050 and the Path Forward](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Association of Equipment Manufacturers](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:30 am – 2:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: AlexRenew Innovation Tours](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alexandria VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alexandria Renew Enterprises, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [12:00 pm – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [MEMA Autonomous Vehicle Ride and Drive](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [2:00 pm – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Optimizing U.S. Infrastructure Investment Policy Options for the 2017 Presidential Transition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [National Academy of Public Administration](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [3:00 pm – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ONLINE WEBINAR: Historical Life Cycle Costs of Steel and Concrete Girder Bridges](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Online Webinar](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Iron and Steel Institute](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [5:30 pm – 8:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure Happy Hour](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alliance for Innovation and Infrastructure](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Wednesday, May 18**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [7:40 am – 10:40 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Women’s Transportation Seminar International – Annual Conference](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Austin TX](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Women’s Transportation Seminar International](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [U.S. Chamber of Commerce Global Supply Chain Summit](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [U.S. Chamber of Commerce](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [International Conference on Sustainable Design, Engineering and Construction](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Tempe AZ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Arizona State University, ASCE Architectural Engineering Institute](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE Engineers Legislative Day in Sacramento, CA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Sacramento CA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:45 am – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week Steering Committee](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [12:00 pm – 5:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [MEMA Autonomous Vehicle Ride and Drive](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [12:30 pm – 2:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [\#InfrastructureMatters to America’s Economy: Advocacy Day Press Luncheon and ASCE Report Briefing](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Society of Civil Engineers, Infrastructure Week Steering Committee](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [5:30 pm – 8:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week Reception](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Infrastructure Week Steering Committee, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [6:30 pm – 8:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Film Screening: Bikes vs. Cars](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Planning Association](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Thursday, May 19**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 11:45 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Council of State Governments Transportation Policy Roundtable](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Council of State Governments](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 10:30 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Bloomberg Presents: The Future of Cities](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Bloomberg Government, Siemens](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:30 am – 9:30 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Green Infrastructure Tour](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Cleveland OH](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:30 am – 9:30 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: AlexRenew Innovative Facilities Tour for Elected Officials](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alexandria VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [AlexRenew](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:35 am – 4:05 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Resilient Infrastructure in the Age of Climate Change](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Pittsburgh PA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE Pittsburgh Section, Champions for Sustainability, Environmental and Water Resource Institute – Pittsburgh Section, Sustainable Pittsburgh](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:00 am – 12:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [How Faster Infrastructure Approvals Can Get America Moving Again](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Common Good, Covington and Burling LLP, Progressive Policy Institute](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [10:30 am – 1:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: AlexRenew Innovation Tours](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alexandria VA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Alexandria Renew Enterprises, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [11:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [The Current State of the Nation’s Aging Public Transportation Infrastructure: Nationwide Press Conference Call](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [PRESS CONFERENCE CALL](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Public Transportation Association](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [1:45 pm – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Delivering the Goods: Recommendations for Funding a Federal Freight Program](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Eno Center for Transportation](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [2:00 pm – 3:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Congressional Briefing for State Legislators](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Council of State Governments, National Association of Counties](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [2:30 pm – 4:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Securing Our Water Future: 21st Century Solutions for 21st Century Cities](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [National League of Cities, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [5:30 pm – 9:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE San Diego Outstanding Civil Engineering Awards](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [San Diego CA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE San Diego Section](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [5:30 pm – 8:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Nouveau Corp Infrastructure Happy Hour](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Nouveau Corp](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Friday, May 20**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Transit Oriented Development Panel and Walking Tour of Capitol Riverfront](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Council of State Governments](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [8:00 am – 2:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [A New Focus for Growth around the Commonwealth](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boston MA](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Sewer U: Seminars, Lab, and Tours](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Cleveland OH](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:00 am – 10:30 am](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Building Out America’s Digital Infrastructure for the 21st Century Economy](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Information Technology and Innovation Foundation](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [12:00 pm – 2:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Juneau, AK Port Tour and New Cruise Ship Dock Celebration](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Juneau AK](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [American Society of Civil Engineers, City of Juneau Docks and Harbors](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [Saturday, May 21](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Event](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Location](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Organizer](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [9:00 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [VOW Local Innovators Tour: Recovering Resources, Transforming Water: Open House and Tour](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Chicago IL](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Value of Water Coalition](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Monday, May 23**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [7:30 am – 5:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Symposium for Sustainable Infrastructure: Integrating Sustainability into Infrastructure Development](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Boulder CO](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE Colorado Section, University of Colorado at Boulder](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [7:30 am – 9:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Engineering Mechanics Institute Conference and Probabilistic Mechanics and Reliability Conference 2016](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Nashville TN](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [ASCE Engineering Mechanics Institute, ASCE Infrastructure Resilience, ASCE Structural Engineering Institute, U.S. Association for Computational Mechanics](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [2:00 pm – 6:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Mobility 2050: A Vision for Transportation Infrastructure and How We Can Get There](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Evanston IL](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Association of Equipment Manufacturers, Northwestern University](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [3:00 pm – 4:30 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Beyond the Runway Coalition: Airport Finance – A Free Market Approach, and Airports as Economics Engines](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Washington D.C.](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Airports Council International – North America](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [**Wednesday, May 25**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Event**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Location**](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [**Organizer** ](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | | [10:30 am – 12:00 pm](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Ribbon Cutting and Tour of the World’s Largest Nutrient Recovery Plant](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Chicago IL](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [Metropolit](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/) | [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Week%20Events%20to%20Check%20Out&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Week%20Events%20to%20Check%20Out "Share on 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[Infrastructure Week](http://infrastructureweek.org/) is May 16-23, and will call attention to why [\#InfrastructureMatters](https://twitter.com/hashtag/infrastructurematters) through events, media coverage, and education and advocacy efforts. And as the new Failure to Act economic report reveals, our infrastructure is in need of increased investment and matters to the economy. [Engineering News-Record](http://www.enr.com/articles/39419-asce-report-infrastructure-gap-14-trillion-over-10-years), [The Wall Street Journal](http://blogs.wsj.com/economics/2016/05/10/civil-engineers-find-trillion-dollar-infrastructure-funding-gap/) and [Reuters](http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-infrastructure-idUSKCN0Y12K6) reported on the economic study, describing how infrastructure needs in the U.S. will exceed projected spending by $1.4 trillion over the next 10 years, and that surface transportation programs account for $1.1 trillion of the shortfall. A prime example of surface transportation needs is transit, where malfunctions continue to be a grueling source of anxiety for many commuters, especially in the nation’s capital where the Metro subway system has had problem after problem. [The New York Times](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/07/us/maintenance-work-to-disrupt-washington-dc-metro-for-a-year.html?_r=2), [Engineering News-Record](http://www.enr.com/articles/39423-dc-metro-plans-major-rebuilding), [USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/05/10/dot-threatens-shut-down-dc-metro/84189764/) and the [Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/video/national/obama-ties-dc-metro-problems-to-larger-infrastructure-problems/2016/05/06/c58e8a54-13a9-11e6-a9b5-bf703a5a7191_video.html) all reported about Metro’s ongoing safety issues. On a lighter note, New Orleans can attest to the overt needs of surface transportation as some residents recently threw a [“Sinkhole de Mayo” party](http://time.com/4319528/cinco-de-mayo-sinkhole-new-orleans/) to draw attention to a 30 ft. wide sinkhole in the middle of a highly traveled street. While this example pokes fun at our road issues, it reminds us that people are affected. Some states, like [Iowa](http://www.constructiondive.com/news/ia-dot-proposes-35b-bridges-and-highways-stewardship-plan/419077/) and [Indiana](http://kokomoperspective.com/kp/news/state-funding-granted-to-help-with-road-repairs/article_f0f1892a-162a-11e6-9a1a-e36665cab742.html) have proposed funding plans to address their road and bridge needs in response to such high demand. The Failure to Act study warns of underinvestment, while the Metro’s woes and New Orleans’ sinkhole exemplify it. Share that [\#InfrastructureMatters](https://twitter.com/hashtag/infrastructurematters) during Infrastructure Week by joining [this thunderclap](https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/40665-infrastructure-matters) and [sending a letter to your elected officials.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=204673) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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to Capitol Hill today, as American business, labor, citizen groups, and more met with members of Congress and their staffs. Mid-day, the group took a break from [Infrastructure Week](http://infrastructureweek.org/) Advocacy Day meetings to come together at a congressional briefing. [Building America’s Future](http://bafuture.org/) Co-Chair Gov. Ed Rendell (D-PA) started the day by pointing out the high percentage of state initiatives to improve infrastructure that are approved by voters. The briefing included remarks from all four of Infrastructure Week’s Congressional Co-Chairs: Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD), Sen. Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV), Rep. Garett Graves (R-LA), and Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY). Each Member of Congress took a few minutes to talk about why #InfrastructureMatters and highlighted the important work Infrastructure Week and its participants are doing. Sen. Cardin talked about the importance of the issue, and shared his personal experience of the commute from Baltimore to D.C. being far longer than it should be—typically over 2 hours, rather than 45 minutes. Sen. Capito talked about a successful grassroots campaign in her state launched by a local radio personality, known as #FTDR—fix the (censored) roads. Rep. Graves trumpeted how preventative investment is more cost effective than emergency repairs, both from a safety and economic standpoint. And Rep. Maloney shared the policy idea of increasing our investment in infrastructure to align with 5% of our nation’s GDP. After Rep. Maloney set the stage well, ASCE’s Casey Dinges presented [the new *Failure to Act* study](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/the-high-cost-of-underinvesting-in-infrastructure-9-a-day/), highlighting that poor infrastructure is costing every American household for $9 a day, and posing the question (and solution) “Would you be willing to pay $3 a day per family for better infrastructure?,” as we could close the investment gap in 10 years if we invested $3 more a day per family. Members from the business and labor communities, including Liuna, Case, and AECOM, also shared perspectives on the importance on infrastructure investment. A wide variety of interests were represented in the room, but as Infrastructure Week more broadly showcases, all these voices strongly agree on the need to rebuild and renew our infrastructure because it matters to our economy and quality of life. 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ASCE’s [*Failure to Act*](http://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Our_Initiatives/Infrastructure/Content_Pieces/failure-to-act-economic-impact-summary-report.pdf) economic report continues to garner news headlines, emphasizing our infrastructure investment needs. [CNBC](http://www.cnbc.com/2016/05/17/rebuilding-america-will-be-harder-than-it-sounds.html), and [C-SPAN](http://www.c-span.org/video/?409185-3/washington-journal-casey-dinges-infrastructure-spending) covered the economic impact of failing to invest in infrastructure in our country, and the importance of all levels of government being involved in restoring it. Investment needs are seen in action every day when infrastructure breaks. Transit needs across the country are manifesting themselves through subway dysfunctions and disruptions. This week there was a large [fire in the NYC subway](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/18/nyregion/new-york-today-metro-north-fire-grand-central-station-mta.html?_r=2) that impacted thousands of train passengers’ morning commutes. The DC Metro released its [SafeTrack Plan](http://wtop.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/SafeTrack_Public.pdf) to address safety recommendations and repair the Metrorail system in an expedited timeframe. It is also no secret that deteriorating roads have a very real impact on our daily commutes. In an [editorial](http://www.syracuse.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/engineering_group_poorly_maintained_infrastructure_costs_everybody.html) this week, a Syracuse writer noted that it cost her nearly $200 to replace the right front tire on her car that blew out when she hit a pothole on her way to work. And [AAA reported](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=42003&t=AAA-Says-70%25-of-Drivers-Worried-About-Poor-Road-Conditions-This-Summer-) that 70 percent of motorists who plan on traveling this summer are concerned about poor roadway conditions or being stuck in traffic. As if that weren’t enough, a [bridge collapsed in Oklahoma City](http://www.koco.com/news/crews-responding-to-northwest-oklahoma-city-bridge-collapse/39631488) because a truck driver did not realize he did not have sufficient clearance, causing road shutdowns and costing an estimated $50,000 in debris removal alone. Improving our nation’s infrastructure only comes when it is prioritized and properly funded. Even though [Infrastructure Week](http://infrastructureweek.org/), is coming to a close you can still share that [\#InfrastructureMatters](https://twitter.com/hashtag/infrastructurematters) by [sending a letter to your elected officials.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=204673) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Issues%20abound%20during%20Infrastructure%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, failure to act, Infrastructure Week, transit --- ### [House Transportation Committee Passes Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-committee-passes-water-resources-bill/) **Published:** May 26, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Transportation%20Committee%20Passes%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Transportation%20Committee%20Passes%20Water%20Resources%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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A path forward for [H.R. 5303](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5303) will require support from the full chamber, a commitment by House leadership to give the bill floor time, and ultimately a compromise with the [much more expansive Senate bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/water-resources-bill-passes-senate-committee/) that advanced out of the Environment and Public Works Committee several weeks ago. It was expected the House would introduce a much smaller “pamphlet” sized bill that would be limited primarily to Army Corps projects studies and authorizations. The base text of the bill includes 28 Corps project authorizations, but also several policy reforms, including one to continue to improve funding of the nation’s harbors. Currently, ports will collect fees from shippers for harbor maintenance, but those funds first go to the Treasury where Congress has made a habit of using the money for unrelated activities. The WRDA bill would set target levels Congress would have to follow to ensure the funds are used for harbor maintenance. The bill would establish a new pilot program to beneficially use sediment dredged from navigation channels to restore shorelines, beaches, and wetlands. The Senate WRDA bill ([S.2848](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2848)) also included a provision on beneficial use of dredged material (section 2017). During the House WRDA markup 21 amendments were offered, most of which were ultimately withdrawn after Chairman Shuster (R-PA) agreed to work with members to resolve their issues separately. Several amendments did pass including one that would [allow wetland mitigation banks](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/2016-05-25-graves.pdf) for Gulf Coast restoration, [a new comprehensive study](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/webste_021_xml.pdf) at the Corps South Atlantic Division and [a manager’s amendment](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/2016-05-25-shuster.pdf) that includes a study of nature based solutions for water resources projects. The Senate will likely make the next move and work to get their version of the WRDA bill floor time in late June. Timing on the House side is less clear. There remains significant differences in the two bills, including the major clean water/ drinking water titles in the Senate bill that weren’t included in the House bill. Even if each full chamber passes their respective versions, working details out in conference will likely prove to be challenging. 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As people take to the roads in order to reach their Memorial Day weekend destinations, [reports predict](http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/AAA-Memorial-Day-travel-highest-in-11-years-7825617.php) that congestion will be at an 11-year peak. According to [AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/tag/memorial-day-travel-forecast/), more than 38 million Americans are expected to travel this Memorial Day weekend, and the agency credits this dramatic number to decreased gas prices. Air travel is also expected to increase 1.6 percent over last year, with 2.6 million Americans taking flights, but travel by other modes of transportation is expected to decrease by 2.3 percent. “What we’re seeing is that the demand for travel is greater than ever — but that leads to the question of whether our transportation infrastructure is equipped to support that job-creating activity,” said [Roger Dow](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/280957-travelers-to-spend-12b-over-memorial-day-weekend), president and chief executive officer of the U.S. Travel Association. In response to the dubious question of whether our infrastructure can handle increased travel, the media continues to hone in on dire infrastructure conditions and investment needs. CNN published articles about [bridge conditions](http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/25/politics/infrastructure-roads-bridges-airports-railroads/), exposing 90-year-old beams that are disintegrating under bridges due to lack of maintenance, as well as [rail systems](http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/25/politics/infrastructure-roads-bridges-airports-railroads/), which are increasingly plagued with failing power cables. Clearly our surface infrastructure as a whole needs diligent attention. In order to improve our commutes and salvage our bridges and railroads from further damage, it is important that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding that will allow for such improvement. 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If the trendiest topic today is the driverless car, what infrastructure has to be in place to make that work? If sensor technology is changing how we monitor everything from water to traffic, what will the infrastructure internet of things be able to replace? How can we plan for infrastructure that will lead to the future we want? While we all know that [America has their hands full with today’s problems](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/home), we also must be realists – planning 2025, 2040 and 2050’s infrastructure starts by stopping endless debating and starting to implement great ideas today. This was the key take-away from the one of the Infrastructure Week events hosted by AEM with Congressman Garret Graves (Infrastructure Week Congressional Co-Chair), Mayor Sly James of Kansas City, Missouri, Ronald De Feo (CEO of Kennametal & Chair and AEM’s Infrastructure Vision 2050), Amanda Eversole (President of Center for Advanced Technology and Innovation), Steve Morrison (Amtrak Account Manager for Siemens Industry, Inc.), and Derek Woodgate (Chief Futurist at The Future’s Lab, Inc.). Mayor James had a great example of getting future infrastructure to work with the new [Kansas City Streetcar Project. ](http://kcstreetcar.org/route/)When they were going to put in a streetcar, they didn’t stop there – they looked at what else could be done while work was being done. This included replacing aging water pipes and installing new fiber. They also implemented new, versatile technology along the route. A great example of this is the kiosks around streetcars that will be able to help citizens with everything from simple answers to reporting incidents. The kiosks have allowed Missouri to use the data collected to create phone apps and fight crime. The project ended up almost completely paying for itself and creating jobs since companies are willing to pay for the data. When we stop thinking of infrastructure as just one project, like a Streetcar, and start taking in the larger view of what can be accomplished and enhanced, we’ll transform our infrastructure and our cities by 2050. Written with an assist by Infrastructure Week intern [Nicole Erdelyi](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-erdelyi-4511055a) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2050%20Infrastructure%20Starts%20Today&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=2050%20Infrastructure%20Starts%20Today "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=2050%20Infrastructure%20Starts%20Today&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, economic impact, future, infrastructure, technology, transportation --- ### [National Dam Safety Awareness Day 2016: Safety of Dams and Safety at Dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/national-dam-safety-awareness-day-2016-safety-of-dams-and-safety-at-dams/) **Published:** May 31, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Spragens, Executive Director, Association of State Dam Safety Officials* [![84,000 Dams in the U.S. in All 50 States. 13,991 Dams Protect High Population Centers. The Average Age of Dams: 52 Years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/AgeTotalPopCenters-Dams-1024x523.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/AgeTotalPopCenters-Dams.png)Today, May 31, is National Dam Safety Awareness Day. The day commemorates when the South Fork Dam failed on May 31, 1889, sending a deadly rush of water and debris into the city of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Commonly known as the Johnstown Flood, the disaster destroyed much of the city and took the lives of more than 2,200 people. Caused by human error and indifference, it is one of the worst human tragedies experienced in U.S. history. National Dam Safety Awareness Day is also an opportunity to better educate elected leaders and the public about the importance of dam safety, including having Emergency Action plans for high-hazard dams. The upcoming anniversary of another landmark and tragic dam failure echoes the need to learn lessons from history. On June 5, 1976, Teton Dam in Idaho broke, inundating over 300 square miles and killing 11 people. The flood resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage, as well as extensive environmental damages. Faulty decision making played a leading role in these catastrophes, both of which could have been prevented with better planning, more communication, and more humility. The good news is lessons learned from Johnstown and Teton have been applied to the establishment and improvement of dam safety programs at federal and state agencies throughout the U.S. Yet lack of dam owner vigilance and awareness continues. Over 65 percent of known dams in the U.S. are owned privately. Many dams determined to be deficient (there are over 4,000 in the U.S.) are not getting the upgrades needed to improve public safety. Many times this is due to a lack of funding and understanding of the risk. Lack of awareness also contributes enormously to a danger posed by dams: including the hydraulic currents around them. This year, National Dam Safety Awareness Day will focus on encouraging swimmers and boaters to remain safe around dams. Last year, at least 25 people drowned at dam sites across the U.S., and the trend is continuing this year, with at least 12 deaths reported in Alabama, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Several federal agencies and 49 states have statutes creating dam safety programs. [Alabama is the only state without a dam safety program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alabama/). These programs all share a common goal of safety *of* dams; striving to reduce the risk of catastrophic dam failures such as the Johnstown and Teton failures. No such nationwide initiative exists, however, to address the topic of recreational safety *at* dams; only a few states have directly confronted the issue. Another challenge facing the nation’s aging dams is inadequate funding. The proposed Senate WRDA legislation has an opportunity to address that through a new dam rehabilitation funding assistance program. The program would authorize grants to go toward dam rehab. It will help dam owners who lack funding to rehabilitate, repair, or remove a high hazard potential dams, which are at risk of failure. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=130%20Congressmen%20Ask%20Colleagues%20to%20Fix%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week 130 Members of Congress (73 Democrats and 57 Republicans) sent a letter to Chairman Brady (R-TX) and Ranking Member Levin (D-MI) of the House Ways & Means Committee urging them to include addressing the long-term solvency of the Federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF) in their plans for overhauling the U.S. tax code. They wrote: *“The need for improvements to our nation’s infrastructure and safety programs is long overdue. However, the current finances of the HTF make it unable to support those investments…We recognize that tax reform legislation will be a heavy lift. Finding a solution requires ingenuity and will involve building consensus among competing interests and ideas, but we stand ready to work in partnership to reach this critical goal.”* The HTF is supposed to fully fund the federal government’s investments in roads, bridges and transit, but for several years now it has been spending more money than it is taking in. The root of the HTF’s solvency problem lies in its primary funding source: the federal motor fuels tax. The federal motor fuels tax of 18.4 cents per gallon for gas and 24.4 for diesel has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has decreased its real value by 40%. To fill the gap, Congress has been diverting general fund dollars into the HTF since 2008. The [FAST Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/), the five year surface transportation bill signed in December 2015, included a $70 billion transfer from the general fund to the HTF. Even with the passage of the FAST Act, our nation’s current level of investment in surface transportation is less than half of what’s actually needed. ASCE’s new [report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf) shows that the U.S. needs to invest an additional $1.1 trillion in surface transportation over the next ten years (from federal, state, local and private sources). Failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on our nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and, most importantly, public safety. The report found that if the surface transportation funding gap is not addressed, the U.S. will lose over $1.2 trillion in GDP and 1.1 million jobs by 2025. Over the past 30 years, all increases in the federal motor fuels tax have occurred as a part of larger tax reform packages, Therefore, Reps. Brady and Levin’s work could offer an opportunity for Congress to finally provide an adequate, sustainable funding source for the HTF. ASCE strongly supports increasing the federal motor fuels tax a sufficient amount at the federal level to stop the need for general fund transfers and allow for increased investment to close the widening gap. Additionally, ASCE supports the creation of additional pilot programs to test charging motorists based on how much they use roads with the long-term goal of using mileage-based user fees to fund the federal HTF. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=130%20Congressmen%20Ask%20Colleagues%20to%20Fix%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Innovative and sexy are in, old and dilapidated are out](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-innovative-and-sexy-are-in-old-and-dilapidated-are-out/) **Published:** June 3, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovative%20and%20sexy%20are%20in%2C%20old%20and%20dilapidated%20are%20out&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With Dam Safety Awareness Day and the kickoff of Innovation Month, water, transportation, and dam infrastructure continue to be a topic of discussion in the media. Monday was [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](http://www.prweb.com/releases/2016/05/prweb13447667.htm), which raised awareness about the need for dam safety protocols and procedures to protect the public from danger potentially caused by failing dams. [Alabama](http://www.al.com/opinion/index.ssf/2016/05/alabama_dam_safety_program_is.html) is the only state without a dam safety program, which means the state does not have a record of how many dams there are in the state or what condition they are all in. Without a dam safety program, Alabama also doesn’t have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) that is required in other states. While this is only one state, it underscores the need for nationwide awareness about the urgency of proper dam safety procedures. You can learn more by visiting [livingneardams.org](http://www.livingneardams.org/). In addition to dam safety, this week is the start of the [U.S. DOT’s Innovation Month](https://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/innovation-month-here-where-does-usdot-fit), which highlights the importance of confronting our infrastructure challenges and striving to develop new ideas and solutions that move us forward. ASCE’s [Gamechangers](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report identifies great examples of innovative projects across a number of infrastructure sectors, and shows the benefits that communities experience when they choose to invest and innovate. Innovation, however, is simply not enough to restore our [water](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kim-glas/fixing-americas-water-cri_b_10150168.html), roads, dams and bridges that need serious attention. A story in [CBS](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/crumbling-bridges-cratered-roads-and-leaking-metros/) detailed the state of our “crumbling bridges, cratered roads and leaking metros,” explaining how people prefer groundbreakings and openings over the routine work of infrastructure maintenance. Because of this mindset, the cost of fixing the country’s aging infrastructure is estimated to be around $1 trillion over the next decade. An article in [Forbes](http://www.forbes.com/sites/harrybroadman/2016/05/30/bring-sexy-back-can-we-rise-to-the-infrastructure-challenge/#338605b24dcc) discussed the need to make infrastructure “sexy” again, emphasizing the tremendous importance that well-maintained infrastructure plays in our quality of life and overall competitiveness as a nation. An article in [VICE News](https://news.vice.com/article/the-us-has-a-lot-to-do-to-catch-up-to-this-swiss-engineering-marvel) shone a light on U.S. rail infrastructure in comparison with the recent opening of the Gotthard Base Tunnel in Switzerland, underscoring the investment needs of our rail infrastructure. In order to improve our infrastructure and build a foundation for innovation, it is important that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding that will allow for such improvement. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovative%20and%20sexy%20are%20in%2C%20old%20and%20dilapidated%20are%20out&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FAkosombo_Dam_is_spilling_water_Ghana1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Innovative%20and%20sexy%20are%20in%2C%20old%20and%20dilapidated%20are%20out "Share on 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Week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-jersey-report-card-coming-next-week/) **Published:** June 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Jersey%20Report%20Card%20Coming%20Next%20Week&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Jersey%20Report%20Card%20Coming%20Next%20Week "Share on 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The report will grade surface transportation categories of bridges, rail, roads, and transit, along with dams, drinking water, energy, hazardous waste, levees, parks & recreation, ports, solid waste, and wastewater. The event will be released to the media via a conference call at 10 a.m. and at a rally at the state capitol hosted by Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto. For additional information contact <reportcard@asce.org>. Stay tuned for additional details, the release of the grades, and (hopefully) the resolution to the Transportation Trust Fund crisis in the coming days and weeks. 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Report%20Card%20Coming%20Next%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, New Jersey, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, dams, infrastructure report card, New Jersey, roads, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [Congressional Vote Could Limit Options to #FixTheTrustFund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressional-vote-could-limit-options-to-fixthetrustfund/) **Published:** June 9, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Vote%20Could%20Limit%20Options%20to%20%23FixTheTrustFund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Tomorrow the U.S. House of Representatives will vote on [H. Con. Res. 112](https://www.congress.gov/114/bills/hconres112/BILLS-114hconres112ih.pdf), a concurrent resolution introduced by Rep. Boustany (R-LA) and co-sponsored by 11 Republicans that would express Congress’ opposition to new fees on oil. While non-binding, the resolution would put Congress on the record as opposing one option for fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). For years now the HTF has been spending more than it has been bringing in. It has been propped up with $140 billion in general fund transfers since 2008. Its primary funding source, the motor fuels tax, has not been increased since 1993 and inflation has decreased its value by 40%. Unstable and insufficient federal funding for surface transportation is one the main reasons our infrastructure is in such poor shape. ASCE’s 2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure gave our nation’s [roads](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/roads/overview) a D, our [bridges](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/bridges/overview) a C+ and our [transit](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/transit/overview) a D. The U.S. is on track to invest [less than half](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf) of what is needed in surface transportation over the next decade. This will have a cascading impact on our nation’s economy, impacting productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and, most importantly, public safety. Every year this funding gap is not addressed it will cost American families $3,400 – that’s $9 a day because of underperforming infrastructure. The HTF needs a long-term funding solution and in order to get there, all options need to be on the table. H. Con. Res. 112 would eliminate a viable funding alternative and does not offer any strategy to #FixTheTrustFund and repair America’s deteriorating transportation infrastructure. Along with 30 coalition partners, ASCE sent a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TCC-H.-Con.-Res.-112-Ltr.pdf) to Congress standing up for infrastructure and opposing H. Con. Res. 112. Want to help #FixTheTrustFund? [Tell your congressman to oppose H. Con Res. 112!](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=218833&utm_campaign=GR-2016-06-09-Vote-Against-HConRes-112-Key-Alert&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congressional%20Vote%20Could%20Limit%20Options%20to%20%23FixTheTrustFund&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FFixTheTrustFund_logo_featuredimage.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congressional%20Vote%20Could%20Limit%20Options%20to%20%23FixTheTrustFund "Share on 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Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-passes-resolution-limiting-options-to-fix-the-highway-trust-fund-2/) **Published:** June 10, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Passes%20Resolution%20Limiting%20Options%20to%20Fix%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fcb2.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Passes%20Resolution%20Limiting%20Options%20to%20Fix%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund "Share on 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Con. Res. 112, a resolution introduced by Rep. Boustany (R-LA) and co-sponsored by 11 Republicans expressing Congress’ opposition to new fees on oil. As yesterday’s [blog post](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/congressional-vote-could-limit-options-to-fixthetrustfund/) highlighted, this resolution may be non-binding, but it puts Congress on the record in opposition to a viable option for fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). Because the gas tax rate has not kept up with inflation, the HTF has been on the brink of insolvency many times in the past several years. Instead of addressing the HTF’s long-term solvency problem, Congress has relied on general funds transfers for the past eight years to prop up the fund, including most recently in the FAST Act. Rep. DeFazio (D-OR), ranking member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, spoke passionately in opposition to the resolution. \[iframe src=”http://www.c-span.org/video/standalone/?c4603301″ width=”100%” height=”500″\]In under 24 hours, over 200 advocates responded to ASCE’s action alert and contacted their representatives in opposition to H. Con. Res. 112. Along with 30 coalition partners, ASCE sent a letter to Congress opposing the resolution. Rep. Blumenauer (D-OR) read extensively from the letter in his remarks on the House floor. \[iframe src=”http://www.c-span.org/video/standalone/?c4603343″ width=”100%” height=”500″\]As a concurrent resolution, H. Con. Res. 112 will pass over the Senate for debate and vote. It remains to be seen if that body will pick up the measure. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2FNJRC-logo-270x185.png&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[![NJRC logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/NJRC-logo-270x185.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-report-card-coming-next-week/njrc-logo/)Today, the *[2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nj)* gave an overall D+ grade for the State’s infrastructure. The report evaluated 13 separate components of New Jersey’s infrastructure, all of which were given a grade based on the components’ condition, capacity, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, resilience, and innovation. The transit and levee components received the lowest grade of D-, while solid waste received the highest grade of B-. The other individual grades were: bridges (D+), dams (D), drinking water (C), energy (C+), hazardous waste (C), parks (D+), ports (C), rail (C), roads (D+), and wastewater (D). Throughout the report, the New Jersey Section of the ASCE calls attention to numerous challenges confronting the state’s vast and diverse infrastructure, many of which are magnified by the dangerous insolvency facing New Jersey’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF). Key issues concerning infrastructure in the Garden State include: - Of the state’s 6,657 bridges, the report found that 1 in 11 are classified as structurally deficient and the average age of New Jersey bridges is 51 years. More than 40% of the state’s bridges are expected to require repair or replacement in the near future. - No single agency exists to oversee New Jersey’s 126 miles of levees, despite numerous reports citing significant condition issues with levees across the state. - 42% of New Jersey’s roadway system is deficient, with many highways now past their anticipated lifespan. Deficient roads are costing the average driver $1,951 each year. - 213 high and significant hazard dams in New Jersey are in poor or unsatisfactory condition, and hundreds of millions of dollars will be necessary to repair them. - If the approaching insolvency of New Jersey’s Transportation Trust Fund is not addressed, there will be no permanent revenue source for the billions of dollars of critical investment that is needed in the state’s bridges, transit systems, railways, and roads. Mindful of the future, however, the New Jersey Section of the ASCE included in the Report Card three major steps to begin improving the overall condition of the state’s infrastructure: 1. Establish a long-term funding source for the Transportation Trust Fund. This will generate the funds needed for highway, rail and transit projects. 2. As evidenced by the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, the state needs to continue to invest in resilient infrastructure that can better withstand severe weather events and limit the need for frequent, costly maintenance in the future. 3. In order to address infrastructure assets facing delayed maintenance or replacement, the state must implement new technology and updated strategies to prioritize infrastructure investment. The *2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure* was created as a snapshot of the present state of New Jersey’s infrastructure, as well as a guide for improving infrastructure in the future. Read more about the report, challenges facing New Jersey’s infrastructure, and ways to meet those challenges at [infrastructurereportcard.org/NJ.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/NJ) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2FNJRC-logo-270x185.png&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Infrastructure%20Receives%20D%2B%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Energy, Hazardous Waste, New Jersey, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Wastewater **Tags:** bridges, dams, energy, hazardous waste, infrastructure, NJ, parks, ports, rail, roads, transportation, wastewater, water --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Embracing Challenges and Moving Forward](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-embracing-challenges-and-moving-forward/) **Published:** June 17, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Embracing%20Challenges%20and%20Moving%20Forward&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FRosati-Kain_High_School_Building_Angle.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Embracing%20Challenges%20and%20Moving%20Forward "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Embracing%20Challenges%20and%20Moving%20Forward&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With the release of [New Jersey’s state infrastructure report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new_jersey/new-jersey-overview/), we are reminded how our nation’s overall infrastructure needs impact the everyday lives of citizens and [state-specific needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-infrastructure-receives-d-report-card/). The state’s Transportation Trust Fund is heading toward bankruptcy by July 1 unless state legislators act. [New Jersey residents can write their elected officials here and ask them to #FixNJTrustFund.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?6&engagementId=217893) When it comes to localities, it can be difficult to prioritize which infrastructure needs the most urgent repairs given limited funding and deferred maintenance backlogs. In [Santa Monica, Calif.,](http://www.govtech.com/fs/How-to-Defeat-the-Endless-Cycle-Deferred-Maintenance.html) the city has made an effort to get a jump on things by investing resources in for infrastructure that doesn’t quite need an emergency fix in order to save money and headache down the road. “And the better you do at investing in your infrastructure, the more resources you have to continue investing in your infrastructure. And the opposite is just as true: The more you skimp on your infrastructure, the fewer resources you have to invest in your deferred maintenance,” Rick Cole, Santa Monica’s city manager. A less-commonly reported on example of where this underinvestment is true is in our school facilities. An op-ed in [Politico](http://www.politico.com/agenda/story/2016/06/how-to-fix-our-crumbling-schools-000143) recently exposed how many school facilities are outdated and need repairs, also evident in the Report Card’s “D” grade for school facilities. The US Green Building Council recently reported that over $45 billion in additional funding is needed annually to upgrade and maintain our schools to ensure health and safety. Like all infrastructure, school facilities that don’t receive regular maintenance acquire much costlier investment needs down the line. Fortunately the poor condition of our nation’s infrastructure has reached the ears of our top presidential candidates as both Clinton and Trump have agreed to make aging infrastructure a priority in their first 100 days in office. A column in [The Hill](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/politics/282943-the-intersection-of-eisenhower-clinton-trump-infrastructure) elaborated on the importance of infrastructure in the upcoming election, featuring No Labels’ Policy Playbook for America’s Next President, supporting three infrastructure ideas that received 63-75 percent public support depending on the policy suggestion. In order to improve our infrastructure it is important that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding solutions that enable us to improve our nation’s infrastructure. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Legislators%20Introduce%20Bills%20to%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Only a few days after the release of the *2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure*, the political debate over saving the State’s soon to be insolvent Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) looms over both the New Jersey Senate and General Assembly. Yesterday, legislators in both chambers introduced identical bills to replenish the Fund, from which the State pays for maintenance, repairs and construction for transportation infrastructure. If the legislature does not act, the state’s Transportation Trust Fund will become insolvent on July 1. The bills, introduced by Sens. Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen) and Steve Oroho (R-Sussex), and by Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-Hudson), are a welcome step towards recommitting public investment to the Transportation Trust Fund. The long-awaited legislative proposals call to fund the TTF with $20 billion over the next decade, and doubles municipal infrastructure aid to $400 million per year. If the legislation is successful, revenue for these long-term programs will come from an update to New Jersey’s outdated gas tax, which has lost a third of its purchasing power since it was last increased in 1988. The bills introduced yesterday in Trenton would increase the gas tax by 23 cents per gallon, and impose an approximately 13 cents per gallon tax on jet fuel. Offsetting the consumer costs of these new taxes would be the discontinuation of the New Jersey estate tax, greater tax exemptions for retirement income and low-income workers, and a new tax deduction for contributions to charities. The 2016 Report Card gave New Jersey’s roads, bridges, and transit grades of D+, D+ and D-, respectively. Among the most alarming statistics about transportation infrastructure found in the report is that 42% of New Jersey’s roadways are deficient, which means over 16,000 miles of roads are rough, distressed or cracked. Equally glaring is the state of New Jersey’s bridges. 1 in 11 are categorized as “structurally deficient,” and over 40% of all New Jersey bridges are expected to soon require improvements or complete replacement. As the most density populated state and a vital corridor between Philadelphia and New York City, New Jersey’s economic health and public welfare demand that the state prioritize investment in transportation infrastructure. Fixing the Transportation Trust Fund with a long-term solution is imperative to adequately addressing the infrastructure challenges highlighted by the *2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure.* New Jersey’s lawmakers need to pass the bills before them immediately to protect the Transportation Trust Fund. Use #FixNJTrustFund on Twitter to call for action, and check out the full *[2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nj).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Jersey%20Legislators%20Introduce%20Bills%20to%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F06%2Fbridges.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Jersey%20Legislators%20Introduce%20Bills%20to%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=New%20Jersey%20Legislators%20Introduce%20Bills%20to%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Legislators%20Introduce%20Bills%20to%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, New Jersey, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** bridges, New Jersey, roads, transit, transportation --- ### [Raising The Grade: How the 2016 Water Resources Bill Can Help Improve America’s Dams & Levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/raising-the-grade-how-the-2016-water-resources-bill-can-help-improve-americas-dams-levees/) **Published:** June 22, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Raising%20The%20Grade%3A%20How%20the%202016%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Can%20Help%20Improve%20America%E2%80%99s%20Dams%20%26%20Levees&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")*In this three-part blog series, we’ll take a look at projects, policy changes and programs included in* [*S. 2848, the Water Resources Development Act of 2016*](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2848)*. First up, Dams and Levees* **Improving the Nation’s Aging Dams: the National Dam Rehabilitation Program** The early days of dam building across the U.S. provided energy, flood control and reliable drinking water reservoirs. In the late 1970s and early 80s following several high profile dam failures, President Carter ordered a review of dam safety across the U.S. In 1986, following recommendations provided by the Carter-Federal Emergency Management Agency Task Force (FEMA), Congress established a National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) in the 1986 Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). For the last 30 years, the NDSP has allowed civil engineers to survey and assess thousands of dams across the nation. We now know there are around 84,000 dams in the U.S. with an average age of 52 years old. The *Report Card* most recently gave dams a grade of “D.” 4,000 of those dams are deficient. That information is extremely helpful in informing communities of potential risk living within a dam’s potential inundation zone. It’s also helped emergency planners develop action plans in case of failure. However, a shortfall has existed in providing well-rounded dam safety: no federal program to rehabilitate, repair or remove deficient dams. The Water Resources Development Act of 2016 changes that. Sec. 3004 of WRDA 2016 for the first time will add an important rehabilitation program the NDSP. Under the program high hazard potential dams, would be eligible for grants provided by FEMA. Nonfederal sponsors must contribute at least 35% of the cost of the project and grants are capped at $7.5 million. Finally, for grants over $1 million qualification based selection (QBS) is required. If this program does in fact become signed into law, it will provide a significant step toward improving our nation’s dams. **Strengthening Existing Levee Programs; Building Levees for the Future** Over 100,000 miles of levees stretch across 50 states and the District of Columbia. Behind these thousands of miles of levees sit trillions of dollars in property assets and hundreds of thousands of lives. Ensuring the safety of our nation’s levees should be a top priority governments and agencies responsible for these critical assets. The *Report Card* gives levees a “D-” grade. The Water Resources Development Act of 2014 made great strides to strengthen levee safety by establishing the National Levee Safety Initiative. The program will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to promote consistent safety standards, create levee safety guidelines and provide funding assistance to states for establishing participating levee safety programs. However the program, which was authorized at $395 million over five years hasn’t yet been funded. The new WRDA of 2016 take a more targeted approach by strengthening levees in state like California, Missouri and Kansas. It also required further review of potential weakness to levees found in coastal area’s threatened by sea level rise. The dam and levee programs authorized in WRDA 2014 and proposed in WRDA 2016 are important first steps to strengthening our nation’s flood control infrastructure, they must be followed with significant funding commitments by the President and Congressional appropriators. 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Coalition Asks Senate to Pass Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/broad-coalition-asks-senate-to-pass-water-resources-bill/) **Published:** June 23, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Broad%20Coalition%20Asks%20Senate%20to%20Pass%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FRC-tell-legislators.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Broad%20Coalition%20Asks%20Senate%20to%20Pass%20Water%20Resources%20Bill "Share on 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Development Act of 2016 (WRDA; S.2848) before leaving for summer recess. The coalition, led by the American Society of Civil Engineers, includes a wide range of interests—demonstrating the impact that WRDA has on many industries, and the benefits of this infrastructure to Americans. Among the signers are The Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Association of Counties, the Labors International Union of North America, Water Environment Federation, the National League of Cities, the National Association of Manufacturers, and dozens more. Water resource bills were once viewed as so important that Congressional leaders tried to pass one every two years. The legislation is the main mechanism for authorizing new projects at the Army Corps of Engineers—the nation’s largest manager of flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects. WRDA also authorizes funding for improvement projects for ports, inland harbors, waterways, dams, and flood control systems. The last bill was passed was passed in the 2014, by a 91-7 vote in the Senate and a 412-4 vote in the House. However, before 2014, the process had lapsed for seven years. By passing a bill this summer, WRDA can get back on track for an every two years cycle. You can share your support of WRDA [by sending a letter to your Senators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=222773). 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Broad%20Coalition%20Asks%20Senate%20to%20Pass%20Water%20Resources%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, inland waterways, levees, ports, water resources development act --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Summer Infrastructure Priorities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-summer-infrastructure-priorities/) **Published:** June 24, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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It is no secret to the American public that our infrastructure [greatly needs TLC.](http://www.marketplace.org/2016/06/20/world/us-lags-infrastructure-spending) That is why states like [New Jersey](http://www.philly.com/philly/news/breaking/20160624_NJ_lawmakers_advance__34_8B_budget__gas_tax_increase.html) are fighting so hard to get a transportation budget passed that would increase the state gas tax and provide a 10-year, $20 billion plan to invest in roads, bridges, rail and other infrastructure. It also explains why states like [Wisconsin](http://lacrossetribune.com/couleenews/news/opinion/state-cannot-continue-putting-off-road-repairs/article_72827b80-fa58-54c5-adf9-e450d142cf75.html), [Illinois](http://kplr11.com/2016/06/21/lack-of-state-budget-could-force-idot-to-shutdown-some-road-construction-projects/) and [Tennessee](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/2016/06/22/mayor-barry-how-pay-transit-challenge/86246974/) are lamenting their lack of funding for much needed infrastructure improvement projects. Even in our nation’s capital, the subway system is undergoing [tedious maintenance](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/25/us/washington-dc-metro-repairs.html?_r=0) and the iconic Memorial Bridge is facing [potential closure](http://wtop.com/sprawl-crawl/2016/06/memorial-bridge-could-close-by-2021-local-leaders-warn/slide/1/) in five years due to increased vulnerability and lack of maintenance, and not enough funding to fix it. On a more positive note, there are many states that are making steps toward not only funding their infrastructure but advancing and innovating their cities. In fact, the city of Columbus, Ohio, recently beat out 77 other cities to win the U.S. Department of Transportation’s [Smart City challenge,](http://www.bizjournals.com/columbus/news/2016/06/22/public-private-partnership-propelled-columbus.html) which awarded them $40 million to kick off new transportation strategies. ASCE’s [Gamechangers](http://ascegamechangers.org/) report lists a myriad of inspirational, innovative infrastructure accomplishments that remind us what can be accomplished when we make the investment. Speaking of moving forward, remind your Senators to pass the [Water Resources Development Act of 2016](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2016/3/the-2016-water-resources-development-act-policies-and-projects) (WRDA; S.2848) before they recess for the summer, which would authorize funding for our nation’s flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects. Because water infrastructure is so critical to our nation’s health and prosperity, passing this legislation would be a great step forward in preserving our water resources and [more than 90 groups came together](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/broad-coalition-asks-senate-to-pass-water-resources-bill/) this week to share that sentiment with the Senate via a letter. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congratulations%20USDOT%20Smart%20Cities%20Challenge%20Winner%2C%20Columbus%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) revealed Columbus, Ohio, was the winner of their [Smart Cities Challenge,](https://www.transportation.gov/smartcity) showcasing an innovative transportation strategy made possible through investment in smart city technology. Like [ASCE’s #GameChangers project](http://ascegamechangers.org/) which shows inspiring examples of innovative trends happening with our nation’s infrastructure, all 77 of the proposals submitted to the Challenge from across the country show how much potential can be unleashed with innovative concepts and new ideas. Columbus’ proposal calls for autonomous transit shuttles between neighborhoods and urban centers, expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, and universal fare cards that allow cardholders to pay for any form of public transit using a variety of payment methods. Columbus and USDOT officials believe these investments will modernize transportation across the city, while opening up greater access to healthcare and jobs for families living in lower income areas. [As the winner of the Smart Cities Challenge, ](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-department-transportation-announces-columbus-winner-unprecedented-40-million-smart)Columbus will receive $40 million from USDOT, $10 million from Vulcan, Inc. and $90 million in matching grants from other local private partners to bring their proposal into reality. [Raising America’s infrastructure grades ](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/overview/key-solutions)starts with great projects like this one in Columbus, but every project should be an opportunity to change the infrastructure game and build the cities of the future. [Tell us what’s happening near you to change the infrastructure in, around, and under your city.](http://ascegamechangers.org/submit) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congratulations%20USDOT%20Smart%20Cities%20Challenge%20Winner%2C%20Columbus%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fph111.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congratulations%20USDOT%20Smart%20Cities%20Challenge%20Winner%2C%20Columbus%21 "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congratulations%20USDOT%20Smart%20Cities%20Challenge%20Winner%2C%20Columbus%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Ohio, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** 2013 Report Card, Columbus, gamechangers, innovation, Ohio, roads, Smart Cities, technology, transit, transportation, USDOT --- ### [New Jersey Must Fix the Transportation Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-jersey-must-fix-the-transportation-trust-fund/) **Published:** June 30, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Must%20Fix%20the%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Legislators in both chambers worked in a bipartisan manner to address the looming insolvency of New Jersey’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) just before the July 1st deadline. The TTF is the account from which the state pays for maintenance, repairs and construction for transportation infrastructure. As introduced by Senators Paul Sarlo (D-Bergen) and Steve Oroho (R-Sussex), and by Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-Hudson), the bills would increase the gasoline tax by 23 cents per gallon, and impose an approximately 13 cents per gallon tax on jet fuel. To help ease the price at the pump the General Assembly also approved a number of tax offsets. Among them are the discontinuation of the New Jersey estate tax, greater tax exemptions for retirement income and low-income workers, and a new tax deduction for contributions to charities. On Monday, a [midnight-hour deal](http://www.wsj.com/articles/new-jersey-assembly-votes-to-raise-gas-tax-cut-sales-tax-1467099426) was struck between the Assembly and Governor Christie’s office that would also reduce the state’s sales tax by 1% to provide further taxpayer savings. The Assembly remained in session until 1:30am when a 54-22 vote was achieved with 10 Republicans voting in favor of the bill. It’s now the Senate’s turn to take action and June 30 is the last day for them to act. Take a moment to [contact your State Senator](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=217893) and encourage them to support the Assembly’s bill. The [*2016 Report Card for New Jersey’s Infrastructure’s*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nj) roads, bridges, and transit grades of D+, D+ and D-, respectively. Among the most alarming statistics about transportation infrastructure found in the report is that 42% of New Jersey’s roadways are deficient, which means over 16,000 miles of roads are rough, distressed or cracked. Equally glaring is the state of New Jersey’s bridges. One in 11 are categorized as “structurally deficient,” and over 40% of all New Jersey bridges are expected to soon require improvements or complete replacement. Nationally, inefficient infrastructure is costing every household $9 a day. However, if every family instead invested an additional $3 a day per household, we could close the infrastructure investment gap in 10 years. This will take action on the federal, state, and local levels. Fixing the Transportation Trust Fund with a long-term solution will not only help raise the grades given by this year’s Report Card but, also put money back into the wallets of New Jersey families. 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30 Republican Senators Urge Floor Time](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/momentum-for-water-resources-bill-builds-30-republican-senators-urge-floor-time/) **Published:** June 30, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")While gun control and a Puerto Rico debt restructuring package were the central focus of the Senate in the last 10 legislative days, momentum for bringing a major, bipartisan water resources bill to the Senate floor before summer recess is growing in the halls of Congress. Efforts to bring S.2848 the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which first passed out of the Committee on Environment and Public Works (EPW) on April 28, made significant headway as 93 WRDA stakeholders urged action on the bill last week. This week that letter was followed by 30 Republican Senators sending a letter to Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) to take up the bill. The letter writes that WRDA “contains substantive reforms and authorizations that prepare our nation to compete in the global marketplace, strengthen protections for coastal and inland communities from disastrous floodwaters, modernize Corps policy to ensure efficient and effective project delivery, and create mechanisms to provide affordable clean water and safe drinking water infrastructure.” The letter from Senate Republicans went on to declare that passing WRDA 2016 would be a “victory for all Americans,” and asked that the bill be brought to the floor for passage before the summer recess. It also stated that the legislation would prove Congress can effectively provide bipartisan results to citizens, and will save taxpayers $6 million over the next decade, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Finally, on Wednesday morning Sen. James Inhofe (R-OK) – the legislation’s main sponsor – [took to the Senate floor](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBIBeuFswUI) to discuss the importance of the bill. In his speech, Sen. Inhofe discussed major port deepening projects necessary for post Panamax ships, showed pictures of busted water mains and endangered ecosystems – all issues that would be aided through this bill. Calling WRDA a “must-pass bill,” Senator Inhofe emphasized the importance of returning to the original cycle of passing WRDA legislation once every two years. The Chairman of the Senate EPW Committee, Inhofe also praised several key provisions of the bill that would help communities meet their water resources needs while allowing them to prioritize the projects addressing the greatest public health risks. Regarding the state of America’s water infrastructure, he asserted that, “This is not a partisan problem, this is a national crisis.” With a 91-7 vote on the 2014 WRDA bill, many expect this bill could garner and even stronger vote count. But the question isn’t about support for the legislation- it’s about timing. The Senate recesses on July 15th and many believe the best shot for bringing the bill to the floor is the week of July 11th as votes on immigration have been scheduled following the July 4th weekend. If the Senate does in fact take up WRDA before the summer recess, focus will shift to the House, where a much smaller and more Army Corps focused bill passed unanimously out of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on May 25. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Momentum%20for%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%20Builds%3B%2030%20Republican%20Senators%20Urge%20Floor%20Time&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, inland waterways, levees, ports, water resources development act, WRDA --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: 4th of July weekend puts highways to the test](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-4th-of-july-weekend-puts-highways-to-the-test/) **Published:** July 1, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%204th%20of%20July%20weekend%20puts%20highways%20to%20the%20test&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week we celebrate two major birthdays—and they are more connected than you may realize. Aside from being Independence Day weekend, this week also marks the 60th birthday of the Interstate Highway System. While giving homage to our nation’s freedom, what better time to also reflect on our nation’s infrastructure? Our [60-year-old highway system](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2016/06/29/happy-birthday-interstate-highway-system/) represents an infrastructure accomplishment that unfortunately has not been well maintained. While it’s noteworthy that our interstate highway system has lasted 60 years, the federal gas tax has not kept up with inflation and the FAST Act will [only provide five years of funding](http://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=19096). In spite of our highway system’s need for maintenance, Americans continue to depend upon it. This holiday weekend, [AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/06/aaa-americans-will-take-trips-ever-independence-day-weekend/) predicts that nearly 43 million Americans will travel, representing the highest number of July 4th travelers on record. “Spurred by the lowest gas prices since 2005, more people than ever are planning to travel this Independence Day weekend,” said Marshall Doney, AAA President and CEO. Having such a need for improved infrastructure, the American public are not neutral to the needs of their highways. According to a recent [survey](http://www.metro-magazine.com/management-operations/news/714094/survey-finds-americans-support-higher-gas-taxes-spending-revenue-on-public-transi), more than 50 percent of Americans are willing to pay more at the pump if the revenue is invested in specific transportation improvements. Without modernized infrastructure, our nation may one day not have the same ease of mobility that it currently enjoys with the interstate highway system. So what does the interstate highway have to do with our nation’s independence? From businesses to families, the freedom to prosper economically and move around efficiently is highly dependent on well-maintained and dependable infrastructure. That is why it is critical that local, state and federal governments work together to find long-term, sustainable funding solutions that enable us to improve our nation’s infrastructure. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Legislature%20Misses%20Opportunity%20to%20Fix%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, we told you about [the looming insolvency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-must-fix-the-transportation-trust-fund/) of New Jersey’s Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) as the Senate attempted to act before the July 1st deadline. After what looked like a chance to get a bill passed before the deadline did not happen, we are now waiting to hear from legislators and Governor Christie as the state decides how it will move forward now that the TTF is on pace to hit bankruptcy at by the end of July. Talks broke down in the Senate last week over the amended version of a bipartisan bill that was passed by the Assembly. [A.10](http://www.njleg.state.nj.us/2016/Bills/A0500/10_I1.PDF) was passed after careful negotiations with Governor Christie’s office would also reduce the state’s sales tax by 1% to provide further taxpayer savings to cushion the 23-cent per gallon gas tax increase. Concerned that this additional offset would be detrimental to the larger state budget the Senate opted first to postpone a June 30 vote pending further negotiations and later opted to push the vote off until they returned from a mini-recess on July 11. According to some projections, it is anticipated the fund has [only $85 million](http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/07/05/christie-transportation-fund-projects/) left to pay for emergency repair work. As this is the case, Governor Christie quickly called for work to be ceased on projects funded by the TTF. Federally-funded and toll-funded work would be allowed to move forward. It is expected that the Governor will release a list of projects that will be allowed to continue in an effort to preserve public safety and welfare. No further legislative activity is expected until the Assembly returns on July 11. Until then Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D) is expected to be in negotiations with the Governor’s Staff and his counterparts in the Assembly. Assembly Majority leader Vincent Prieto (D-Hudson) has indicated he is willing to work with the Senate and Governor’s office to find a compromise. Fixing the Transportation Trust Fund with a long-term solution is the first step to raising the grades given by this year’s [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nj). We encourage you to take a moment to [tell your state legislators and Governor Christie](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?5&engagementId=217893) that immediate action to fix the TTF is needed! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Legislature%20Misses%20Opportunity%20to%20Fix%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure investment, state --- ### [Inadequate Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-price-we-pay-for-inadequate-infrastructure/) **Published:** July 6, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure comes at a high cost. It costs each family $9 a day. That adds up to $3,400 a year, according to our [Failure to Act economic study](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/). Watch the video below to find out more about how inadequate infrastructure costs you. And, more importantly, what we can do about it. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Inadequate%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** economics, infrastructure, infrastructure investment --- ### [Raising the Grade: How the 2016 Water Resources Development Act Can Improve America’s Ports and Inland Waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/raising-the-grade-how-the-2016-water-resources-bill-can-help-improve-americas-ports-and-inland-waterways/) **Published:** July 7, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Raising%20the%20Grade%3A%20How%20the%202016%20Water%20Resources%20Development%20Act%20Can%20Improve%20America%E2%80%99s%20Ports%20and%20Inland%20Waterways&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In this second post of a three-part blog series, we’re looking at projects, policy changes and programs included in S. 2848, the Water Resources Development Act of 2016. [Read about how WRDA can improve Dams and Levees.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/raising-the-grade-how-the-2016-water-resources-bill-can-help-improve-americas-dams-levees/) Now up, Ports and Inland Waterways Ports and Inland Waterways: Improving the Movement of Goods and Commerce The U.S. inland waterway system consists of over 12,000 miles of inland and intra-coastal waterways, with over 240 lock chambers, along with over 300 commercial harbors. Domestically, 5% of all tonnage moved in the U.S. and almost 4% of the total value of all freight transported over the entire U.S. transportation system is moved by water. In the last two years significant strides have been made to address the infrastructure challenges faced by ports and inland waterways. Funding and grants for multimodal freight in the FAST Act, updates to the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) and increasing the diesel fuel fee to increase collections by the Inland Waterway Trust Fund have all been viewed as positive steps. However, under current authorized funding levels, there is an estimated $11 billion in unmet needs. The Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (S.2848) extends several provisions included in WRDA14, makes important changes to maintenance and deepening programs, and authorizes several new studies and reports. One of the benefits of keeping WRDA bills on a two year cycle is that policy changes, including those in the prior cycle that did not work as intended can be tweaked. This is exactly the case for the HMTF. WRDA14 set percentage goals for HMTF expenditures (e.g. in 2016 spend 69% of the receipts from 2015, in 2017 spend 71% of the receipts from 2016). A slowdown in the global economy decreased HMTF receipts (which is funded by a tax placed on the value of goods) and therefore the annual percentage goals, while higher than the year before, were still lower in actual dollars. The HMTF is still flush with cash that ports dutifully collected for maintenance and need to prepare for a post-Panamax world. WRDA16 provides a backstop for HMTF and ensures funds will continue to be allocated incrementally higher each year. Another major provision that will help U.S. ports accommodate post-Panamax ships is to increase the federally authorized depth of projects from 45 to 50 feet. The current cost-share depth for navigation channel deepening was established in WRDA 1986 at a 75 percent federal/25 percent non-federal split for depths to 45 feet, and an even 50 percent split for depths greater than 45 feet. WRDA 2014 revised the maintenance dredging cost-share depth to 50 feet from 45 feet. WRDA16 will follow WRDA14 by applying the same cost share for deepening projects. Taken together WRDA16 is a positive step for improving the nation’s ports and inland waterways. In our next blog post, we will explore how drinking water and wastewater are addressed in this year’s WRDA bills. 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inland waterways, ports, Water Resources, water resources development act --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: New Jersey screeches to a halt, Georgia and Louisiana surge ahead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-new-jersey-screeches-to-a-halt-georgia-and-louisiana-surge-ahead/) **Published:** July 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Wouldn’t it be nice to have an extra $3,400 in your bank account to plan a trip with? Well, as ASCE’s new Failure to Act economic study video shows, if we improved our infrastructure every American family could save $9 a day. Watch the [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ytc_PkoOajQ) that details the high costs of underinvesting in our nation’s infrastructure and the solution to close the gap. New Jersey’s postponed decision to address the looming insolvency of its state transportation trust fund has resulted in a [halt of dozens of transportation projects](http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2016/07/07/new-jersey-road-projects-halted/86813342/). [ Gov. Christie’s office released the seven-page list of projects that are on hold until a bill is passed.](http://blog.tstc.org/2016/07/07/this-is-what-happens-when-lawmakers-wont-raise-a-gas-tax-that-hasnt-seen-an-increase-in-28-years/) An opinion piece in the [Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2016/07/05/yo-new-jersey-you-dont-have-to-cut-a-tax-to-raise-a-tax/) echoes the frustration that New Jersey residents are experiencing and tells the state “Yo… you don’t have to cut a tax to raise a tax,” a debate at the center of passing a bill. The situation in New Jersey parallels that of the federal government which has also not increased its gas tax in 23 years. [Mississippi](https://mississippitoday.org/2016/07/05/tax-fears-doomed-highway-spending-push/) is another state in a funding bind, as a recently proposed solution for much-needed highway improvements fizzled away, in spite of compelling arguments for investment. According to a study by the National Center for Pavement Preservation, maintenance costs can multiply to anywhere from six to 14 times what it would have cost if preservation work had been done within 15 years of a road’s construction. Once again, this illustrates we can invest now, or we can pay more later. In contrast to New Jersey and Mississippi, many states including [Georgia](http://www.daltondailycitizen.com/news/after-a-year-of-collection-transportation-bill-speeding-local-projects/article_33ad1a4e-418d-11e6-b9ca-af35248c4c2e.html) and [Louisiana](http://www.thenewsstar.com/story/news/2016/07/05/state-lands-60m-transportation-grant-acadiana-gets-first-bite/86721040/) are moving ahead with transportation projects due to intentionally raised state funds and contribution from the [FASTLANE grants](https://www.transportation.gov/FASTLANEgrants), which are part of the federal FAST Act. While these grants bring promising infrastructure maintenance and show what investment can do, they are also a reminder that our federal Highway Trust Fund is still without a fix that offers long-term, sustainable funding. 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FASTLANE Grant Recipients Released](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/inaugural-round-of-fastlane-grant-recipients-announced/) **Published:** July 13, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Inaugural%20Round%20of%20FASTLANE%20Grant%20Recipients%20Released&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F5960779776_8c038912c3_m1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Inaugural%20Round%20of%20FASTLANE%20Grant%20Recipients%20Released "Share on 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on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Inaugural%20Round%20of%20FASTLANE%20Grant%20Recipients%20Released&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The U.S. Department of Transportation provided to Congress last week the list of 18 recipients of the first annual round of [FASTLANE grants](https://www.transportation.gov/FASTLANEgrants). The FASTLANE program was authorized by the FAST Act to fund critical freight and highway projects of national or regional significance. The grants can be used for highway, port, freight rail and intermodal projects. The FAST Act authorized $4.5 billion in funding for the FASTLANE program for fiscal years 2016-2020, with 25 percent reserved for rural projects, and 10 percent for smaller projects. While this investment is a great kick-start for the 18 recipient projects, the application process calls attention to the need to increase investment in our infrastructure as $10 billion worth of projects were requested, while only about a tenth of that was able to be funded. U.S. Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA), chairman and ranking member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, and Reps. Bill Shuster (R-PA) and Peter DeFazio (D-OR), chairman and ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee released a [statement](http://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases-republican?ID=7954AE37-A2CE-4A50-929A-6E6D1305B5B9) saying: > “The demand for the FASTLANE program has already far exceeded expectations, receiving 212 applications for projects totaling roughly $10 billion, more than 10 times the available amount. This program is an important achievement of the FAST Act, and the response illustrates how critical freight and highway investments are to improving the movement of goods and reducing congestion.” The Fast Act provides for five years of certainty on the federal level for transportation projects, and the FASTLANE Grant program exemplifies the benefits that can happen when we make the investment. However, long-term funding looms large, as Congress still needs to #FixTheTrustFund with a sustainable funding source. Click on any project to learn more about it: | AZ: | [I-10 Phoenix-Tucson Corridor Improvements](http://tucson.com/news/state-and-regional/m-federal-grant-to-help-widen-improve-interstate-between-tucson/article_f7f67fa4-642a-5541-9df0-87aaa28fa38b.html) | |---|---| | CA: | [SR 11 Segment 2 and Southbound Connectors](http://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/2016/jul/07/highway-to-new-border-crossing-gets-49-million/) | | DC: | [Arlington Memorial Bridge Reconstruction Project](http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/dc/arlington-memorial-bridge-approved-for-90m-grant/264915292) | | FL: | [Truck Parking Availability System](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=42460&page=1) | | GA: | [Port of Savannah International Multi-Modal Corridor](http://www.ajc.com/news/business/economy/port-of-savannah-gets-44m-to-boost-rail-traffic/nrswj/) | | IA: | [Cedar Rapids Logistics Park](http://www.thegazette.com/subject/news/government/iowa-lands-25-million-grant-for-one-of-a-kind-freight-hub-in-cedar-rapids-20160707) | | ID: | [US 95 North Corridor Access Intermodal Project](http://cdapress.com/news/local_news/article_b42ccdb8-90c5-5073-90b5-b2e8f6cc35a3.html) | | LA: | [I-10 Freight CoRE](https://www.businessreport.com/article/louisiana-receives-federal-grant-funds-ease-10-congestions) | | MA: | [Conley Terminal Intermodal Improvements/ Modernization](https://www.bostonglobe.com/business/2016/07/06/legislature-makes-last-minute-million-allocation-pay-for-shipping-terminal-upgrade/fiQ7bWD8IfUrbnZ5to4J6N/story.html) | | ME: | [Maine Intermodal Port Productivity Project](http://bangordailynews.com/2016/07/06/news/portland/port-of-portland-in-line-for-7-7-million-fed-grant-to-double-capacity/) | | NY: | [I-390/I-490/Rt. 31 Interchange, Lyell Avenue Corridor](http://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2016/07/05/money-coming-390490-reconstruction/86723960/) | | NY: | [Cross Harbor Freight Program (Rail)](http://www.panynj.gov/port/cross-harbor.html) | | OK: | [US 69/75 Bryan County](http://durantdemocrat.com/news/5904/grant-awarded-for-highway-6975-upgrade) | | OR: | [Coos Bay Rail Line – Tunnel Rehabilitation Project](http://registerguard.com/rg/news/local/34547342-75/port-of-coos-bay-receives-11-million-federal-grant-for-rail-fixes-between-eugene-and-coos-county.html.csp) | | VA: | [Atlantic Gateway: Partnering to Unlock I-95 Corridor](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2016/07/08/what-to-expect-from-virginias-atlantic-gateway-projects/) | | WA | [South Lander St. Grade Separation /Railroad Safety Project](http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/transportation/seattles-lander-street-overpass-project-wins-45-million-federal-grant/) | | WA | [Strander Blvd. Extension and Grade Separation Phase 3](http://www.king5.com/news/local/seattle/feds-give-seattle-45-million-to-finish-lander-street-overpass/265176761) | | WI | [I-39/90 Corridor Project](http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/m-fed-grant-would-mean-earlier-expansion-of-i-/article_6c309d78-42eb-5353-be67-c7e511769032.html) | [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Inaugural%20Round%20of%20FASTLANE%20Grant%20Recipients%20Released&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F5960779776_8c038912c3_m1.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Inaugural%20Round%20of%20FASTLANE%20Grant%20Recipients%20Released "Share on 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The Florida Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the[ *2016 Report Card for Florida’s Infrastructure* ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/FL)on Thursday, July 14. The report includes an evaluation of the state’s aviation, bridges, coastal areas, drinking water, energy, ports, roads, schools, stormwater, transit, and wastewater (see grades below). #### Keeping Up With Growth One of the key findings from this report is that Florida is growing, and the State’s infrastructure needs a growth spurt of its own to keep up. Recently Florida’s population has grown at a rate of about 1% per year, adding about 1 million people, which is the equivalent of adding a city the size of Jacksonville every 5 years. Some cities and counties are stepping up their efforts, but more needs to be done across the state by every infrastructure owner. The good news is that investments in areas like bridges and smart technology investment solutions seen in ports and airports are raising Florida’s grades. As Florida grows, investing in infrastructure must be Florida’s top priority to continue to be the place people want to live and work as well as attract visitors from around the country and the world. 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release, and more states implementing changes to fund their infrastructure. Congress has finally compromised on the [FAA reauthorization bill](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/287581-aviation-bill-to-beef-up-security-ease-long-lines-cleared-for-take-off), a 14-month extension that will boost airport security, refund baggage fees for lost or delayed items, and implement rules that will improve air travel for disabled persons and children. Although it was ultimately not included, air traffic control privatization dominated the debate, leaving little room for discussions of how to improve America’s aviation infrastructure. The earlier Senate bill included an increase in funding for the Airport Improvement Program, but the increase did not make the final bill. On a state level, Florida released its [Infrastructure Report Card](http://news.wfsu.org/post/civil-engineers-state-infrastructure-mediocre-improving) this past Thursday, breaking down the state’s infrastructure’s strengths and weaknesses. While the grade increased from the last report card in 2012 from a C- to a C, coastal areas, storm water management and school facilities still need improvement. When it comes to funding and maintaining state infrastructure, there are examples of both successes and failures seen this week. [Idaho](http://www.equipmentworld.com/itd-director-explains-how-garvee-program-transformed-idahos-infrastructure-for-the-better/)’s Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle (GARVEE) program is an example of the benefits of making the investment, as it added almost 120 miles of highways to help relieve congestion, built 15 new bridges, replaced or widened 26 bridges, built and improved several interchanges and created or sustained more than 15,000 jobs. The [FASTLANE grants](https://www.transportation.gov/FASTLANEgrants), created through the federal FAST Act, are good examples of investments in state infrastructure projects that will bring much-needed value to the state. [California](http://www.kpbs.org/news/2016/jul/13/california-testing-pay-mile-fee-drivers/) is another state that is working hard to find new funding mechanisms, now trying out a pay-by-mile fee for drivers to see whether this will help generate funds. On the flip side, states like [New Jersey](http://www.constructiondive.com/news/report-nj-highway-project-shutdown-could-add-10-to-construction-costs/422439/) and [Illinois](http://www.constructiondive.com/news/il-contractors-prep-for-potential-shutdown-of-2b-in-construction-projects/421417/) are suffering losses with state construction projects shutting down due to dwindling transportation funds. In the case of New Jersey, the projects shutdown could add 10 percent to construction costs once those projects are re-started. Clearly the price of underinvestment is high—and these states are not the only ones paying the price. ASCE’s latest [Failure to Act](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/) report details how much we are all paying each year due to underinvestment in our nation’s infrastructure. As Members of Congress head home for summer recess, take the chance to share with our lawmakers that it’s important for us to have a long-term sustainable funding source and plan for our infrastructure. 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Country](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/pokemon-can-be-caught-on-transit-at-national-parks-across-the-country/) **Published:** July 20, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Pok%C3%A9mon%20Can%20Be%20Caught%20on%20Transit%2C%20at%20National%20Parks%20Across%20the%20Country&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FPokemonGo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Pok%C3%A9mon%20Can%20Be%20Caught%20on%20Transit%2C%20at%20National%20Parks%20Across%20the%20Country "Share on 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Due to the huge commercial and cultural success of the game, transit agencies are getting in on the action. In the game, players use their phones to locate and capture virtual Pokémon characters in the real environment around them. Players can also pick up virtual supplies at real locations designated as PokéStops and battle their collection of Pokémon at designated community Gyms. In an effort to boost ridership and make transit more fun for commuters, the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority and other transit agencies have taken to social media to promote opportunities to catch Pokémon on trains, collect supplies at PokéStops located at transit stops, and battle other users at Gyms which can be found in many large transit stations. LA Metro has even created a specific Twitter account [@PokemonGOMetro](https://twitter.com/pokemongometro), to make followers aware of Pokémon located throughout the Metro network. In addition to the emerging intersection of transit and pop culture, Pokémon Go are situated at many iconic pieces of infrastructure, including many of ASCE’s [Historical Civil Engineering Landmarks](http://www.asce.org/landmarks/). Pokémon and PokéStops can be found at or near the U.S. Capitol, Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, and many other landmarks, allowing users of the game to experience some of the greatest examples of American infrastructure. [The National Park Service has also seen an influx of visits](http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2016/07/pokemon-go-national-parks-level-up/) from Pokémon Go players, as many park visitor centers are designated as PokéStops or Gyms. While the Park Service has welcomed the new visitors, they have joined other government agencies in warning players to be aware of their surroundings while playing, and to never drive while playing. As long as users of the wildly popular game stay safe, they may be able to have fun while learning about some of best transit and infrastructure America has to offer! 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Pok%C3%A9mon%20Can%20Be%20Caught%20on%20Transit%2C%20at%20National%20Parks%20Across%20the%20Country&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** infrastructure, National Parks, transit --- ### [Water Financing Experts Share Ideas to Improve Local Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-infrastructure-financing-experts-gather-at-epa-event/) **Published:** July 20, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Financing%20Experts%20Share%20Ideas%20to%20Improve%20Local%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This Tuesday, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) hosted a day-long event in Washington, D.C., for representatives from the public and private sectors to discuss emerging finance methods for addressing deficient community water infrastructure. EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy opened the day stressing the need to “start thinking about these \[water resources projects\] as investments, not expenses.” She went on the recognize the success of the EPA’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund, which has provided over $111 billion to communities since 1987 for water resources projects. Tuesday’s event included a mixture of expert panel presentations and follow-up discussions designed to address water infrastructure financing issues from a variety of federal, state, and local perspectives. The first panel of the day included municipal leaders from Jackson, Mississippi, and Atlanta, Georgia. The panelists emphasized the importance of seeking out new regional community partnerships and emerging public-private partnerships, like Atlanta’s Care and Conserve program, as ways to fund water-related projects. The second panel discussion included leaders from several federal agencies and departments and addressed the critical need for greater integration of federal programs supporting water infrastructure investment in economically disadvantaged communities. Harriet Tregoning, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), lamented that while a person’s zip code shouldn’t have an impact on their basic quality of life water quality disparity is a tragic example of the social inequity that exists between communities. In ASCE’s [*2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/), the [drinking water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/drinking-water/overview)and [wastewater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/wastewater/overview)categories both received “D” grades reflecting some of the challenges these leaders are trying to address. This week’s EPA conference shows agencies, departments, and service providers from across the country are trying to make changes, coming together to share the information, and make water infrastructure financing a greater reality for American communities nationwide, but there is still so much more to do.[ Find out what we can do to raise these grades.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/overview/key-solutions) [Written by James Kirk, ASCE’s Government Relations intern.](https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-kirk-163976121) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=California%E2%80%99s%20Orange%20County%20Infrastructure%20Isn%E2%80%99t%20Improving&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F07%2Faviation.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=California%E2%80%99s%20Orange%20County%20Infrastructure%20Isn%E2%80%99t%20Improving "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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A team of professional engineers from Orange County assessed the 12 categories, including Aviation (A-), Electric Power (C-), Flood Control & Levees (C-), Ground Transportation (C), Natural Gas (B-), Oil (B-), Parks, Recreation & Environment (C+), School Facilities (C), Solid Waste (B), Surface Water Quality (D+), Wastewater (B), and Water Supply (B). This is the fourth *Orange County Infrastructure Report Card*. The first, released in 2002, gave the county’s infrastructure a GPA of “C;” in subsequent releases in 2005 and 2010, the GPA has stayed constant at a “C+.” “In this first assessment of Orange County’s infrastructure since the 2008 recession, we found that while some areas have improved incrementally, others have declined, leaving our overall GPA stalled for more than a decade,” said Yaz Emrani, P.E., OC Infrastructure Report Card Chair. “Since our infrastructure works as a system, it’s important that Orange County increase investment so that we can move our infrastructure from ‘catching up’ to ‘ready for the future.’” The *2016 Orange County Infrastructure Report Card* finds that much of the county’s infrastructure needs additional investment to keep up with demand. Of note: - While commercial traffic at John Wayne Airport approaches the current negotiated passenger limit of 10.8 million annual passengers until 2020, both general aviation and military demand fall short of meeting Orange County’s available capacity. - Funding shortfalls for needed upgrades to bring regional flood control facilities in the county to its standards continue to be in excess of $2.7 billion. - Deferred maintenance during the recent recession has exacerbated ground transportation needs. The existing funding sources are inadequate to meet the current and future demand, and it is estimated Orange County needs an additional $133 million annually. - The condition of school facilities has declined in the past five years due to lack of funding. - Due to increased volume of stormwater runoff during storm events, existing surface water quality infrastructure in Orange County does not have nearly the capacity to meet wet weather demands. Given these infrastructure challenges, the Orange County Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers urges a number of recommendations to raise the grades, including: - Performing continuous and timely maintenance on the infrastructure to prolong use and minimize the need for costly repairs. - Conducting comprehensive planning and long-term investment to ensure sound decisions about infrastructure. - Preserving the environment while fostering economic growth and personal mobility. To view the full Orange County report, visit [www.ASCECAReportCard.org](http://www.ASCECAReportCard.org). 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**Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Talk%20to%20your%20Members%20of%20Congress%20About%20Infrastructure%20this%20Recess&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FRC-tell-legislators.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Talk%20to%20your%20Members%20of%20Congress%20About%20Infrastructure%20this%20Recess "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Talk%20to%20your%20Members%20of%20Congress%20About%20Infrastructure%20this%20Recess&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Members of Congress headed home (and to their respective national conventions last week) and won’t return to Washington until after Labor Day. This gives you, as an infrastructure advocate, the opportunity to talk with your federal lawmakers about our nation’s “D+” infrastructure and specific legislation that they can pass this year to help improve it. The first is the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). The Senate version of this bill authorizes 25 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects in 17 states. It would also authorize a much needed dam rehabilitation program. The House also has a version of this bill, which has a narrower scope. WRDA bills are most effective when they are passed every two years. Since the last was signed into law in the summer of 2014, it’s time for Congress to pass another bill. If you’re going to see one of your Senators or Representative and want to talk about WRDA, [check out this more extensive backgrounder on the WRDA bills S. 2848 and H.R. 5303](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/ASCE-WRDA-2016-Backgrounder.pdf). With the passage of the FAST Act last December, many Members of Congress feel like they can ignore surface transportation for another 4.5 years. Help us remind them they can’t! Because the gas tax rate has not kept up with inflation, the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) has been on the brink of insolvency many times in the past several years. Instead of addressing the HTF’s long-term solvency problem, Congress has relied on general funds transfers for the pas t eight years to prop up the fund, including most recently in the FAST Act. Congress needs to take action to fix the trust fund and ensure its long-term stability. Congressional leaders have been talking about doing a big push on tax reform next year. Remind your Members of Congress to include the HTF. ![ASCE State Advoacy Captain Stephan Durham and Rep Jody Hice (GA-R)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/SAC-Stephan-Durham-and-Rep-Jody-Hice-GA-R-270x179.png "asce-news-logos_0001_2560px-Newsday.svg")ASCE State Advoacy Captain Stephan Durham and Rep Jody Hice GA RAnother piece of legislation important to our nation’s infrastructure is the FAA reauthorization bill. The bill has been undergoing a series of short-term extensions as of late and while a 14.5-month reauthorization bill was just enacted, it did nothing to address our underinvestment in aviation infrastructure. As you travel this summer, there’s a good chance you saw an airport that could use some upgrades—as aviation received a “D” grade in the Report Card. Congress can help fix our airports by increasing funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which is a major source of cash for infrastructure upgrades. They should also increase or even eliminate the cap Passenger Facility Charges (PFC)—user fees levied by airports you pay when you book a flight. Right now PFCs are capped at $4.50 per trip segment, which hasn’t been modified since 2001. Raising or eliminating the cap would allow airports to invest in themselves to the benefit of air travelers. Ask your Senators and Representative to pass a long-term FAA bill that invests in America’s aviation future. To ensure our infrastructure has engineers to design, build, and maintain it in the future, talk to your Members of Congress about the Pre-College Engineering Education Act (H.R. 5679). This bill focuses on engineering part of STEM, and would introduce students to modern engineering tools such as computer-aided design while underscoring the value of professional licensure. If you’re interested of seizing summer recess to talk to your federal lawmakers, here’s a few ways to participate: - Visit your Senators’ and Representative’s websites to find out what public events they have scheduled - Call your Members of Congress’ District Office and ask to schedule a meeting - [Use our online advocacy website](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/) to send emails to your Members of Congress on these and other infrastructure issues - Invite your Members of Congress to come to your group’s meeting (e.g. ASCE section event, PTA, Rotary Club) - And, if you’re lucky enough to have a more personal connection with a Member, take a few minutes to discuss infrastructure issues and why they matter at your neighborhood barbecue. Election Day is not the only way to have your voice be heard. Take these next few weeks to share your thoughts with our nation’s lawmakers and tell them it’s time to invest in our infrastructure—because it will [save the typical American family $3,400 a year](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ytc_PkoOajQ). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Talk%20to%20your%20Members%20of%20Congress%20About%20Infrastructure%20this%20Recess&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, inland waterways, levees, ports, Water Resources, WRDA --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: As Temperature Rises, so do Infrastructure Issues](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-as-temperature-rises-so-do-infrastructure-issues/) **Published:** July 22, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20As%20Temperature%20Rises%2C%20so%20do%20Infrastructure%20Issues&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FTappanZeeBridgeFromBelow.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20As%20Temperature%20Rises%2C%20so%20do%20Infrastructure%20Issues "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20As%20Temperature%20Rises%2C%20so%20do%20Infrastructure%20Issues&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")As a sweltering heat engulfs most of the country, infrastructure issues have been heating up too. Many states are discussing their inadequate funding to improve infrastructure, presidential candidates are talking infrastructure, and a crane collapsed on one of the nation’s busiest bridges—reminding commuters of the value of working infrastructure. On Tuesday afternoon, a [crane collapsed on top of the Tappan Zee Bridge](http://www.lohud.com/story/news/local/2016/07/19/crane-collapses-closes-tappan-zee-bridge/87290800/) in New York, closing six lanes and shutting down traffic in both directions for more than five hours. While no one died in this incident, the domino-effect inconveniences of this event remind us how much we rely on bridges. Despite the importance of roads and bridges, many states are struggling to properly fund their transportation projects. In [Indiana](http://wbaa.org/post/indot-farm-bureau-ask-rural-residents-road-funding-solutions), lawmakers are turning to rural residents and asking them to chime in about their infrastructure, and how best to fund it. In [New Jersey](http://www.nytimes.com/2016/07/20/nyregion/new-jersey-roads-chris-christie.html?_r=1), residents continue to be frustrated about the dozens of construction projects that have halted because of a political stalemate, which has put more than 1,000 state construction workers out of work. [Rhode Island](http://wpri.com/2016/07/18/study-low-infrastructure-spending-makes-ri-an-outlier-state/) has historically spent little on capital projects like road and bridge repairs, reportedly dedicating less than 17 percent of its capital spending to highways, compared with a national average of 25 percent. Undoubtedly, this explains the poor road quality in Rhode Island compared to the national average. As Americans become increasingly more aware of the nation’s infrastructure deficit, the topic has become more talked about on the campaign trail. The Bipartisan Policy Center [wrote an open letter](http://cdn.bipartisanpolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/BPC-Infrastructure-2016-Election.pdf) to the presidential candidates asking that the winning candidate make infrastructure a First 100 Days priority. At the Republican National Convention, Presidential Nominee Donald Trump [promised](http://www.politico.com/story/2016/07/full-transcript-donald-trump-nomination-acceptance-speech-at-rnc-225974) to invest in infrastructure and build new “roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, airports and the railways of tomorrow.” Check back next week for a breakdown of both parties’ platforms and convention discussion of infrastructure. In the meantime[, Congress is out of session](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/talk-to-your-members-of-congress-about-infrastructure-this-recess/) and now is a good time to encourage your legislators to invest in our infrastructure because the cost of investment could [save you and your family $3,400 a year](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ytc_PkoOajQ). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20As%20Temperature%20Rises%2C%20so%20do%20Infrastructure%20Issues&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Political Conventions Talk Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/political-conventions-talk-infrastructure/) **Published:** July 28, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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presidential candidate and talk about their respective visions for the country. Here’s how each party handled infrastructure: The Republican Party held its National Convention first in Cleveland, Ohio the week of July 18. While the city was selected as [the host in part because of its transit offerings](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2016/07/19/why-transit-was-key-in-bringing-the-rnc-to-cleveland/), the GOP’s [approved party platform](https://www.gop.com/the-2016-republican-party-platform/) statement is none-too-kind to public transportation infrastructure. The platform’s “America on the Move” section (found on page 4) is the only part that discusses infrastructure at great length. The solution identified to improve the nation’s transportation infrastructure is to take transit funding out of the Highway Trust Fund—an idea that has been attempted and failed in the past—and eliminate the federal transit program. In addition, it states “With most of the states increasing their own funding for transportation, we oppose a further increase in the federal gas tax.” However, it does not offer specifics on how to address the long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund. The platform also includes mention of the nation’s waterways and the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule (found on page 18). The position states “We must never allow federal agencies to seize control of state waters, watersheds, or groundwater. State waters, watersheds, and groundwater must be the purview of the sovereign states.” The republican presidential nominee, Donald Trump, has spoken several times over the course of the campaign on the need to invest in the nation ‘s infrastructure. In Mr. Trump’s nomination acceptance speech on Thursday night he specifically referenced the nation’s roads’, bridges’, and airports’ poor condition. During the week’s events, a few speakers did mention infrastructure in passing [including actress Kimberlin Brown](http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2016/07/19/kimberlin-brown-rnc/), however it was not a major focus of anyone’s policy speeches. This week the Democratic Party gathered in Philadelphia for its national convention. The [Democratic Party Platform](https://www.demconvention.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Democratic-Party-Platform-7.21.16-no-lines.pdf) offers far more mentions and details regarding improving the nation’s infrastructure, including a section titled “Building 21st Century Infrastructure” (found on page 7), which specifically calls out the idea of a national infrastructure bank. In other sections of the platform, infrastructure improvements are referenced as a way to increase safety, build a clean energy economy, and strengthened cities. During the convention, several speakers discussed infrastructure, including Flint, [Michigan’s Mayor Karen Weaver](http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/07/karen_weaver_dnc_speech.html). During her primary campaign, democratic party presidential nominee Hillary Clinton [released a detailed infrastructure plan](https://www.hillaryclinton.com/briefing/factsheets/2015/11/30/clinton-infrastructure-plan-builds-tomorrows-economy-today/%29.). Her running mate, Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) referenced roads and bridges in his [announcement speech](http://www.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/1607/23/cnr.05.html) saying “Let’s build bridges and roads and airports and ports so people can have jobs.” With our nation’s infrastructure most recently receiving a “D+” GPA, it’s good that both parties have been talking about it. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Political%20Conventions%20Talk%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016 election, infrastructure, infrastructure bank, infrastructure report card --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: States Making the Most of Summer Recess](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-states-making-the-most-of-summer-recess/) **Published:** July 29, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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political issues continues to simmer, states are striving to meet their infrastructure needs in light of transportation budget woes and limited federal funds. In Wisconsin, residents and lawmakers recognize the dire need for road improvements but wrestle with a [$1 billion transportation budget shortfall](http://host.madison.com/wsj/news/local/govt-and-politics/memo-state-transportation-fund-m-short/article_2c096284-d35e-56ff-b53e-305ec3080c25.html?utm_campaign=GR-2016-07-29-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua). Recent flood damage to roads and other public infrastructure are resulting in debris removal and emergency protective measures that will [cost the state more than $35 million](http://www.wcregisteronline.com/content/guard-engineers-complete-road-damage-assessments). Legislators are considering raising the state’s gas tax or creating a toll road system to help generate funding. Wisconsin is not unique in its transportation funding struggles. IND recently published an [article](http://theind.com/article-23639-how-other-states-are-slaying-their-transportation-budget-dragons.html), “How other states are slaying their transportation budget dragons,” showcasing how states like Virginia and Tennessee are working to raise money for their infrastructure needs. Virginia is taking an alternative approach to leveraging funding by making city and regional agencies prove the utility of their projects through a process similar to grant application. [The Commonwealth Transportation Board](http://www.ctb.virginia.gov/resources/policies/CTBPolicyIndex.pdf) reviews projects from around Virginia and scores them according to how well they “ease congestion, improve economic development, provide accessibility to jobs, improve safety and environmental quality, and support transportation-efficient land use.” This process encourages jurisdictions to reevaluate and prioritize their transportation problems and develop solutions in order to be granted funding. Tennessee has gotten creative by swapping road extension and expansion projects for cheaper alternatives that accomplish the same goals. They have successfully reduced transportation costs through their [Expedited Delivery Process](http://www.greshamsmith.com/showcase/projects/showcase-7/tdot-expedited-proj-delivery), which has directly contributed $171 million of the total $942 million in transportation cost reductions since 2014. States are also taking steps to improve their freight and rail infrastructure. Iowa created its first [freight plan](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=42704&t=Iowa-Finalizes-First-Freight-Plan) that will be used as a guideline to improve efficiency, lessen transportation congestion and reduce the industry’s impact on the public and environment. [Kansas](http://www.thekansan.com/news/20160721/kdot-shaping-statewide-rail-plan/?Start=1) is working on shaping a statewide freight and rail plan that will specify long-term investment strategies and a program of improvements to keep driving progress. While these multi-state actions are positive steps forward, much work is still needed at the federal level to truly improve infrastructure. Fortunately, each presidential candidate [agrees that infrastructure is important](http://www.stardem.com/news/national/article_a4da76ea-6270-5a0d-ac60-fce51b224a0d.html) even though [their two parties differ on how to approach the issue](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/289305-how-the-democratic-and-gop-platforms-differ-on-infrastructure). In the meantime, with Congress in recess, now is a good time to encourage your legislators back home to invest in our infrastructure because the investment could [save you and your family $3,400 a year](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ytc_PkoOajQ). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20States%20Making%20the%20Most%20of%20Summer%20Recess&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [New Jersey Remains Deadlocked on Transportation Trust Fund Fix](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-jersey-remains-deadlocked-on-transportation-trust-fund-fix/) **Published:** August 2, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Remains%20Deadlocked%20on%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund%20Fix&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")It’s now August and few legislative days remain before the start of the State Legislature’s summer recess. What should have been [a quick fix at the beginning of July](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-legislature-misses-opportunity-to-fix-transportation-trust-fund/) (or during the first six months of the year) is now an ongoing stalemate between the Legislature and the Governor’s Office on whose solution is the best for New Jersey. All parties agree that the 23-cent per gallon gas tax increase is what the State Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) needs to adequately address the state’s transportation needs. Yet, New Jersey now finds itself at the outset of a [fourth week of work stoppages](http://www.nj.com/traffic/index.ssf/2016/07/road_construction_shutdown_could_balloon_cost_industry_official_says.html) since Governor Christie (R-NJ) executive order took effect on July 8. The Governor and Senate President Stephen Sweeney have traded plans over the last few weeks but, ultimately have not come to an agreement on how to offset the 23-cent per gallon gas tax increase. After just shy of a month of inactivity at the state house due to a recess for the National Party Conventions, the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee returned to Trenton last Friday to take up Senator Sweeney’s (D-NJ) proposal, which has garnered support from Assembly Majority Leader Vincent Prieto (D-NJ), and pushed it through to the full chamber for a floor vote. With a new opportunity to vote on this critical piece of legislation, the Senate has [again postponed a vote](http://www.njspotlight.com/stories/16/08/02/senate-fails-to-vote-on-transportation-trust-fund-pension-amendment/) due to the lack of support necessary to result in a veto override should Christie veto Sweeney’s bill. Projections seem to indicate that the chamber is just a few votes shy of the majority it needs but, all the same are waiting to shore up the count. Estimates from early July indicated that the TTF had [only $85 million](http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/07/05/christie-transportation-fund-projects/) left to pay for emergency repair work. Despite the fact that shovels have been put down at most projects throughout the state, the balance of the TTF is wearing thin and will soon run dry. With just a single legislative day left before the legislature heads home for its August recess, [we need you to send an email now](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?4&engagementId=217893) and demand Legislators and the Governor find a compromise that will reopen the shuttered projects and give New Jersey the 21st century infrastructure system it deserves! 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Jersey%20Remains%20Deadlocked%20on%20Transportation%20Trust%20Fund%20Fix&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure investment, state --- ### [White House Holds Summit to Discuss Disaster Financing and Resilient Recovery](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/white-house-holds-summit-to-discuss-disaster-financing-and-resilient-recovery/) **Published:** August 3, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The total cost of these 196 events exceeds $1.1 trillion. Flooding alone caused for $260 billion in damages from 1980 to 2013. Just this week a 1-in-1,000-year flood event caused significant damage and tragic loss of life in the historic town of Ellicott City, Maryland. West Virginia, Texas, Illinois and South Carolina have all experienced significant flood events in the last three years. As the federal government, insurance companies and local recovery programs assist these communities, it’s important to consider tools that can be used to help reduce similar losses in the future. Resilient design standards, changes to insurance policies, and green bonds were [all topics of discussion](https://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2016/08/03/getting-smart-about-how-we-finance-disaster-resilience) at the White House event. The idea of resilient recovery has become more common following Hurricane Sandy in 2012 when high wind and coastal storm surge devastated the Northeast at a cost of $67 billion. Redefining the role of the federal government in disaster recovery, properly balancing risk for private insurers and encouraging home owners to strengthen their homes (see the [FORTIFIED Program](https://disastersafety.org/fortified/)) are all good starts. Key to ensuring that infrastructure is built safe and strong lies with the engineers who design it. However, the engineering profession has for too long relied on historical data for its design parameters, when a paradigm shift is needed to design for future conditions. With more than 50 percent of Americans living in coastal counties, key infrastructure (e.g. ports and energy facilities) and evacuation routes are increasingly vulnerable to impacts like higher sea levels, storm surges, and flooding. Inland communities face similar problems of riverine flooding, drought and forest fire. While there’s no one right answer, the White House forum demonstrated it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. With the right policies and building codes in place, combined with emergency planning, people can live and safely and comfortably in their community. The Department of Housing and Urban Development [offers resources to help guide communities in the financing of high performing infrastructure](http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/documents/huddoc?id=HUD_FactSheet_FHPI.pdf). The days of free unhinged disaster response funds are likely behind us, and requiring communities to build stronger will keep us safer and ultimately save money and lives in the long run. 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million in TIGER grants in FY16. This is the eighth round of TIGER grants (properly called the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery program). The program was authorized as a part of the 2009 recovery act to support innovative projects that are difficult to fund through traditional federal programs. Since the program is paid for from the general fund, not one of the user-fee supported transportation trust funds, it can be used for projects of any transportation mode and this year’s batch of grants includes a number of intermodal projects. This year’s grants award $193 million to highway and bridge projects, $97 million to pedestrian and bicycle paths, $93 million to transit projects, $54 million to maritime infrastructure and $47 million to freight and passenger rail projects. TIGER grants are highly competitive. There were 585 applicants requesting more than $9.3 billion, demonstrating the significant transportation investment needs in our country. The majority of this’s years’ recipients had applied for TIGER grants in previous years. Although the TIGER program is popular on both sides of the aisle, its future is not assured. As a discretionary program, it is subject to appropriation process each year. Over its eight-year history, the TIGER program has incentivized innovation in communities of all sizes and spurred local and private investment. This year’s $485 million federal investment will support $1.74 billion in overall transportation projects. To see who will be receiving TIGER grants and learn about the projects, go [here](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/TIGER%20Fact%20Sheets%20-%207-28.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=TIGER%20Grants%3A%20They%E2%80%99re%20Grrrrrreat%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, surface transportation, TIGER, transportation --- ### [With Gas Prices Low, Congress Has Opportunity to #FixTheTrustFund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/with-gas-prices-low-congress-has-opportunity-to-fixthetrustfund/) **Published:** August 8, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Cheap gas coupled with an improved economy is spurring Americans to drive more. After a decrease during the recession, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is climbing again. Summer is the busiest time on U.S. roads and many drivers will find themselves stuck in traffic, whether they’re headed to work or the beach. In 2014, Americans spent [6.9 billion hours](http://d2dtl5nnlpfr0r.cloudfront.net/tti.tamu.edu/documents/mobility-scorecard-2015.pdf) sitting in traffic (42 hours per driver). The wasted time and gas add up—the total cost of congestion in 2014 was $160 billion ($960 per driver). ![vmt 4](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/vmt-4.jpg)*Estimated VMT based on traffic volume trends.* [*Federal Highway Administration.*](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/travel_monitoring/tvt.cfm) A major contributor to congestion is the underinvestment into our road network. According to AASHTO, there is a [$629 billion](http://bottomline.transportation.org/Documents/Bottom%20Line%202015%20Executuve%20Version%20FINAL.pdf) backlog of highway needs. For the federal government and most states, taxes on gasoline and diesel are the primary funding source for highways, but the tax rates frequently have not been raised in years, sometimes decades. Many states are considering plans to raise their fuel taxes to increase their investment in highway infrastructure and last year [nine states](http://t4america.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/State-Funding-Report-2015.pdf) actually did it. Despite these tax increases, the price drivers pay at the pump has continued to go down—[one study by ARTBA](http://www.artba.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/How-a-Gas-Tax-Increase-Affects-the-Retail-Pump-Price-June-2015-ARTBA-Study-FINAL-2.pdf) even shows that a gas tax increase does not have a direct impact on the price at the pump. Federal lawmakers unfortunately have not followed their lead. The federal Highway Trust Fund has been flirting with insolvency since 2008 because its primary funding source, an 18.4 cent per gallon tax on gasoline and a 24.4 cent per gallon tax on diesel, has not been raised since 1993. Inflation has cut its real value by 40%. The fund has been propped up by $140 billion in transfers from the general fund. In order to ensure adequate and stable funding for America’s highways, the Trust Fund needs a sustainable funding source. The most direct and immediate way to #FixTheTrustFund is to increase the tax on gas and diesel a sufficient amount at the federal level to stop the need for general fund transfers and allow for increased investment to address the backlog. Meanwhile, there should be additional pilot programs to test charging motorists based on how much they use roads with the long-term goal of using [mileage-based user fees](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/revenue/road_pricing/defined/vmt.aspx) to fund the federal highway trust fund to prepare for the future. It’s time for Congress to step up and #FixTheTrustFund. 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Approximately 5,000 state legislators, legislative staffers, federal officials and others gathered to gain invaluable knowledge from experts and fellow legislators to take back to their respective states. Attendees participated in an array of policy-producing committee meetings, issue forums and deep-dive sessions, including on infrastructure. The American Society of Civil Engineers attended to lend our expertise and share the message of the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* and the *Failure to Act* economic study during sessions and in conversation. One such session was on the “Multisector P3 Partnership,” which featured national experts and state leaders discussing emerging policy issues surrounding the expanding P3 industry and its potential role in helping strengthen public infrastructure assets in water, energy, transportation and others. Another session of note, titled “Crystal Clear? State Efforts to Improve Water Planning,” was a panel discussion on how states are working to bring together the agriculture industry, urban areas and clean water advocates to address efforts to maintain healthy water resources, and consider future demand and supply of this important resource. This session featured ASCE Past-President Greg DiLoreto P.E., P.LS., D. WRE, Pres.13.ASCE and fellow panelists Tom Curtis, former deputy executive director of American Water Works Association, John Covington from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and Chris Kolb from the Michigan Environmental Council. The conversation included a discussion of the infrastructure investment gap, funding mechanisms including state revolving funds, and how to ensure drinking water quality. This session was one of eight session chosen to be live streamed and [archived](http://www.ncsl.org/meetings-training/2016-legislative-summit-streaming-archive.aspx) on the Summit’s website. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=National%20Conference%20of%20State%20Legislatures%20Legislative%20Summit%20Talks%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, public-private partnership, water, water infrastructure --- ### [Innovations in Infrastructure: Appreciating the Value of Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/innovations-in-infrastructure-appreciating-the-value-of-water/) **Published:** August 16, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Innovations%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Appreciating%20the%20Value%20of%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With the 2016 Summer Olympics in full swing, water quality is at the forefront of viewers’ minds. [Obstacles of polluted water, trash](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/rio-olympics-2016-severe-water-pollution-clouds-games/) and [pollution-related illness](http://www.cbsnews.com/news/rio-olympics-2016-evi-van-acker-belgium-sailor-infection-dirty-water/) are hindering the Olympic games and remind us all of how critical clean water and effective water treatment is to the health and welfare of society. In contrast to Brazil, our nation’s water quality remains very high, however our drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is in definite need of improvement. Fortunately, many have seen this as an opportunity for innovation. [Lawrence Technical University in Michigan is leading a multi-state demonstration project](http://www.mlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2016/02/lawrence_technological_univers.html) that focuses on using green infrastructure design that can reduce stormwater runoff from parking lots. According to the Great Lakes Stormwater Institute, around 90 to 95 percent of all rainwater that hits surfaces such as asphalt and concrete runs off into storm drains, pipes and water bodies with little to no treatment, depositing high concentrations of pollutants into a community’s water supplies. This project meets these issues by using penetrable replacements for asphalt in campus parking lots that will promote infiltration down into the soil as opposed to having mass amounts of runoff into the water systems. The key component in this project is applying green infrastructure to mimic the natural hydrology of a site. In addition to innovative uses of green infrastructure to help manage stormwater, there have been other successful projects addressing water quality and infrastructure. A prime example is the [ISI Envision Award-winning Brooklyn Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrade](http://www.nyc.gov/html/dep/html/press_releases/15-075pr.shtml#.V64xJfkrKUl). New York City has had many instances of not properly dealing with wastewater and pollution in its rivers, harbors and bays. In an effort to change that, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection invested $150 million in upgrading the city’s wastewater treatment plant to more effectively receive, clean and disinfect up to 170 million gallons of combined sanitary and stormwater flow each day. The upgrade also aimed to increase resiliency against flooding, improve reliability and protect the ecological health of Jamaica Bay. While these are only two examples of successful water infrastructure projects, they represent the power of innovation to meet very real infrastructure needs. As seen in Brazil, water quality is critical to a functioning society and therefore worthy of investing time, energy and creativity towards improving it. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Innovations%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Appreciating%20the%20Value%20of%20Water&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [New Report Highlights Limitations of National Levee Safety Initiative](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-highlights-limitations-of-national-levee-safety-initiative/) **Published:** August 17, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The conclusion: the Agencies “have made little progress in implementing key national levee-safety-related activities required in the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014.” The reason: lack of funding and higher priorities for other programs. Congress passed the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA) in June 2014. WRRDA requires the Corps and FEMA to manage national levee-safety-related activities, including establishing voluntary national levee-safety guidelines and providing financial and technical assistance to nonfederal stakeholders that take actions to promote levee safety. WRRDA authorizes $395 million to support levee safety initiatives over five years, yet not a single dollar has been appropriated for the program, nor has the program been prioritized in the President’s Budget Request in the last three fiscal year cycles. As flooding continues to threaten communities across the county, establishing a national levee safety program could provide much needed coordination, raise risk awareness, provide funding for inventory/inspection and lay the groundwork for a levee rehabilitation and repair program. As the proverbial saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Innovations%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Reinventing%20Travel%20Convenience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")According to the [Chicago Tribune](http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-uber-lyft-public-transit-20160815-story.html), Americans spent about $15 billion in fares on public transit in 2014. Public transit use has been steadily growing over the past few decades, with ridership increasing by [nearly 39 percent since 1995](http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/transportation/291042-americas-public-transit-is-costing-us-more-than-money). Yet, according to a recent article in [Forbes](http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffmcmahon/2013/03/06/top-eight-reasons-people-give-up-on-public-transit/#11834c0f741e), more and more people are losing confidence in public transit as a reliable transportation option. Travelers in cities like [Chicago](http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-cta-tif-20160809-story.html), [Los Angeles](http://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-metro-rail-cars-20160807-snap-story.html), [Nashville](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/local/davidson%20/2016/08/17/metro-recommends-6-billion-transit-plan-nashville-region/88870010/), [Denver](http://www.denverpost.com/2016/08/17/colorado-invest-1-billion-per-year-for-pedestrians-cyclists-transit-users/) and our [nation’s capitol](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/in-scathing-report-fta-blasts-metro-track-maintenance-program/2016/08/08/48583bfe-5d99-11e6-8e45-477372e89d78_story.html) continue to express frustration with their transit and public transportation systems as derailments, delays and unscheduled repairs are occurring more frequently than they should. However, despite such dismal circumstances, Americans continue to rely heavily on public transportation. In an effort to improve public transportation, the [U.S. Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-department-transportation-announces-7-million-funding-innovative-research-improve) has launched an innovative research challenge. Public transit organizations can apply for $7 million in federal funding for projects that demonstrate innovative approaches to improving safety for passengers and public transportation workers. “With these new grants, the Federal Transit Authority (FTA) is funding research on cutting-edge technologies to improve the performance of public transportation, making a safe mode of travel even safer for passengers as well as those who keep the trains and buses running,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. A rising trend in the world of public transportation is the [growing use of microtransit](http://www.citylab.com/commute/2015/04/how-the-microtransit-movement-is-changing-urban-mobility/391565/) in cities throughout the nation. With seemingly unending options for new rideshare services available to the public, microtransit is starting to revolutionize the way Americans get around. While the idea of sharing rides is not new, better data on mobility patterns and widespread smartphone access have made microtransit more popular. Commingling of private microtransit services and public transportation abound. For example, [The Kansas City Transit Authority](http://www.citylab.com/cityfixer/2016/02/kansas-city-bridj-microtransit/462615/) partnered with the Boston-based microtransit agency Bridj and Ford on a one-year pilot project that will bring on-demand public transit to Kansas City. This partnership gives Kansas City residents the option of using an app to reserve a seat on a Bridj vehicle, a commuter shuttle service, at $1.50 per ride. This small-scale example shows the potential for microtransit to become a viable public transportation option. While the widespread maintenance issues and investment needs of our nation’s public transportation system are vast and complicated, innovative adaptions like microtransit are promising steps forward. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Innovations%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20Reinventing%20Travel%20Convenience&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** transit --- ### [Happy Birthday, National Parks!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/happy-birthday-national-parks/) **Published:** August 25, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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(NPS). With 412 areas covering more than 84 million acres, located in every state, the [National Park System](https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/faqs.htm) includes national parks, monuments, battlefields, military parks, historical parks and sites, lakeshores, seashores, recreation areas, scenic rivers and trails, and the White House. In 2015, the National Park System hit a record of 300 million visitors. Yet, in spite of their popularity, the bill for deferred maintenance at the National Parks is nearly [$12 billion nationwide](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/plandesignconstruct/defermain.htm). In honor of the anniversary, [CNN](http://edition.cnn.com/2016/08/23/opinions/national-park-service-centennial-funding-opinion-brinkley/index.html) explored some historic national parks and monuments that pale in comparison to what they once were. From Padre Island National Seashore in Texas to Fort Sumter National Monument in South Carolina to Everglades National Park in Florida and Yosemite National Park in California, rising concerns about wildlife safety, pollution and park conditions abound. A recent article in [The Tennessean](http://www.tennessean.com/story/news/nation-now/2016/08/23/tenn-cities-urge-congress-fund-repairs-smokies/89219158/) details the eroding conditions and desperate funding needs of the most popular park in the NPS , Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which reportedly needs $232 million in repairs for roads, campgrounds and other facilities. Fortunately, the American public is not indifferent to this issue. According to a [study released in July 2016](http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rep-niki-tsongas/a-century-of-conservation_b_11676402.html) by the National Park Foundation, 95 percent of the American public thinks protecting national parks for future generations is important, and 80 percent are willing to pay higher federal taxes to ensure the protection and preservation of the NPS. If maintaining national parks for the sake of preserving their historic and sentimental value weren’t enough, an economic study by the NPS shows that every federal dollar invested in our parks leads to $10 in economic activity by supporting nearby commerce. The data reveals that the parks generate $27 billion dollars in economic activity and support 250,000 private sector jobs nationally. We look forward to the next 100 years of the beauty and recreation that national parks offer. To ensure that future, making the investment into the system needs to be a priority. 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proposed rule the could transform how the federal government funds infrastructure built in flood prone areas. The draft rule, formally known as [*Updates to Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands Regulations To Implement Executive Order 13690 and the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard*](https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2016/08/22/2016-19810/updates-to-floodplain-management-and-protection-of-wetlands-regulations-to-implement-executive-order#h-17) was published for public comment on August 28, 2016. Under the proposed rule, FEMA Federally Funded Projects, which are actions involving the use of FEMA funds for new construction, substantial improvement, or to address substantial damage to a structure or facility would be subject to new elevation requirements. As a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed noted it “\[w\]hether you are an investor assessing the $2 trillion in bonds that Moody’s found carry elevated near-term climate risk, one of the nearly two million U.S. homeowners facing significant risk from climate-related flooding, or a U.S. taxpayer staring at $360 billion in direct government costs from extreme weather over the past decade—these threats are looming, large and increasing.” In light of these risks, the Obama Administration updated federal flood risk policy for the first time in nearly 40 years by proposing a new Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS), which orders agencies to review how they spend federal money in flood plains. Part of the directive requires that new construction or substantial improvements made to infrastructure backed with federal money be designed and elevated using one of three methods: (1) Climate-Informed Science Approach (CISA): Utilizing the best-available, actionable hydrologic and hydraulic data and methods that integrate current and future changes in flooding based on climate science; (2) Freeboard Value Approach (FVA): Freeboard (base flood elevation + X, where X is 3 feet for critical actions and 2 feet for other actions); (3) 0.2 percent annual chance Flood Approach (0.2PFA): 0.2 percent annual chance flood (also known as the 500-year flood); or (4) the elevation and flood hazard area that result from using any other method identified in an update to the FFRMS. Agencies that have major infrastructure missions (e.g. FEMA, the Department of Transportation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Department of Housing and Urban Development) will be closely watched to see which methods or methods they adopt. The first agency to propose their method (via rulemaking) was FEMA, which adopted the Freeboard Value Approach as the baseline approach for both critical and non-critical FEMA Federally Funded Projects. For FEMA investments that are critical actions, the agency would use the Freeboard Value Approach to establish the minimum elevation and allow optional use of the Climate-Informed Science Approach if the elevation is higher than the Freeboard Value Approach. While the FFRMS marks a significant change in federal policy relating to flood resilient design and risk mitigation, the truth is stronger building codes have been adopted by states and local government for decades and the federal government is just now playing catch up. According to FEMA, 22 States and 596 localities have adopted freeboard requirements ranging from 1 to 3 feet. Finally, FEMA expects the expected increase in costs for the new elevation requirement to save both time and money in disaster recovery. Comments on the FEMA rule are being accepted through the federal register through October 21, 2016 using Freeboard Value Approach to establish the elevation and FFRMS floodplain for FEMA Federally Funded Projects that are non-critical actions [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Updates%20to%20the%20Federal%20Flood%20Risk%20Management%20Standard&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Updates%20to%20the%20Federal%20Flood%20Risk%20Management%20Standard "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Updates%20to%20the%20Federal%20Flood%20Risk%20Management%20Standard&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, FEMA, flood control, levees --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Looking ahead to high-speed rail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-looking-ahead-to-high-speed-rail/) **Published:** September 2, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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[benefits](http://www.ushsr.com/benefits.html); Day-long commutes accomplished in hours, congestion relief on the roads, and helping the environment by reduced oil consumption and emissions. With the first HST originating in Japan 50 years ago, [more than 20 countries](http://www.ushsr.com/hsr/hsrworldwide.html) currently use HSR and experience stunning benefits. Despite the growing popularity and success of HSR around the world, the [U.S. has only just started to catch up](http://www.cnn.com/2015/05/03/opinions/smart-high-speed-trains-america/). Vice President Biden recently announced a [$2.45 billion high-speed rail plan](http://www.dailykos.com/story/2016/08/29/1564857/-Vice-President-Biden-announces-2-45-billion-high-speed-rail-plan) that will establish a federal loan for Amtrak to expand its high-speed railway infrastructure. The new trains, which Amtrak expects to begin running in 2021, will have initial speeds of up to 160 mph, but will be capable of speeds up to 186 mph. This is part of a [six-year plan that Biden announced](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/02/08/vice-president-biden-announces-six-year-plan-build-national-high-speed-r) in 2011, that promised $53 billion in HSR investment. [Amtrak plans to invest](https://www.engadget.com/2016/08/28/amtrak-next-generation-high-speed-trains-2021/) in 28 next-generation trains sets and significant upgrades to the Northeast Corridor. The trains are expected to accommodate one-third more passengers, more outlets and USB ports, improved WiFi quality and top speeds up to 186 mph. While Biden’s plan is a dramatic step towards establishing HSR as a viable transportation option nationwide, states like [California](http://www.sfcta.org/california-high-speed-rail-project) and [Florida](http://www.allaboardflorida.com/) have already begun to construct HSR infrastructure. Although still in the testing phase, the proposed construction of the futuristic tube-like bullet train, [Hyperloop](https://hyperloop-one.com/), offers travelers in California another high-speed option. America may be behind on the HSR bandwagon; however, it is exciting to think about where we could be in five years. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Looking%20ahead%20to%20high-speed%20rail&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Congress Returns to Town — Zika, Federal Budget and Water Resources Legislation All At Play](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-returns-to-town-zika-federal-budget-and-water-resources-legislation-all-at-play/) **Published:** September 6, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Returns%20to%20Town%20%E2%80%94%20Zika%2C%20Federal%20Budget%20and%20Water%20Resources%20Legislation%20All%20At%20Play&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Coming off a long summer break, Congress returns today to several realities it left unfinished in June. While a Water Resources bill is the top opportunity for infrastructure policy, other pressing issues may take precedence. In the warm months since leaving town, the Zika virus has spread across Florida and its reach is expected to continue growing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are expected to run out of funds to combat the virus by the end of this month. Legislation to provide additional funding has stalled while legislators clash over Republicans’ inclusion of a prohibition on funding going to family planning medical clinics. In a case of reoccurring déjà vu, Congress must also pass a bill to fund government agencies, before fiscal year 2016 funding expires on September 30th. Congress is meant to pass 12 separate appropriations bills each year to fund the federal government, but this rarely happens. Instead spending bills are usually combined into a single “omnibus” bill. If Congress thinks it won’t be able to pass an appropriations bill(s) before the end of the fiscal year, it passes a continuing resolution (CR) which extends the previous year’s funding levels with minor changes. With the House having passed only five appropriations bills and the Senate having only passed three, they are now expected to turn their focus to a CR. The length of the CR is up for debate. For some Senate Republicans, who are in jeopardy of losing Senate control to Democrats, passing a longer-term (i.e. six month) CR would mean “giving away the store” to Democrats. They would prefer a two-month CR, leaving them in the majority for passing an omnibus during a lame-duck session. Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) would also like a short-term CR and has said he opposes any bill that goes past December. Outside conservative groups and some House Republicans want a longer-term deal—at least in to the new year/new Congress—to avoid a year-end deal-making session between a lame-duck Congress and a lame-duck President in which Democrats could force Republicans to accept additional spending or risk a shutdown at Christmastime. One glimmer of hope in all the legislative fights left on the calendar is consideration of the [Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016](http://transportation.house.gov/uploadedfiles/wrda2016.pdf). Each chamber has passed a version of the major water infrastructure bill out of committee and the bill now awaits floor action. In an election cycle that generally sees political messaging bills over bipartisan infrastructure bills, moving a WRDA would be an exception. WRDA bills authorize important navigation, flood control and ecosystem restoration projects and studies at the Army Corps of Engineers. The Senate bill ([S. 2848](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2848)) also included several drinking water and clean water infrastructure programs. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Returns%20to%20Town%20%E2%80%94%20Zika%2C%20Federal%20Budget%20and%20Water%20Resources%20Legislation%20All%20At%20Play&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Water Resources, water resources development act --- ### [Infrastructure Goes to the Polls on November 8](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-goes-to-the-polls-on-november-8/) **Published:** September 13, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Goes%20to%20the%20Polls%20on%20November%208&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FCheck-mark.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Goes%20to%20the%20Polls%20on%20November%208 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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In some states, infrastructure funding measures will also be on the ballot. This is a trend that many states and localities have turned to as a way to improve infrastructure. Upon their initial analysis the Transportation Investment Advocacy Center estimated the ballot measures passed in 2014 would generate $15 billion in additional revenue for transportation improvements and an additional $4 billion resulted from those voted on during the 2015 election cycle. During each election cycle voters approved over two-thirds of measures appearing on the ballot demonstrating the public’s increased understanding of the need to invest in both maintaining and improving our infrastructure. In the coming weeks, we’ll be giving a rundown of the infrastructure ballot measures. Here’s a preview: - Alabama’s [Statewide Amendment 2](http://whnt.com/2016/09/09/amendment-2-set-to-be-on-the-november-8th-ballot-would-ensure-money-made-within-alabama-state-parks-stays-there/) asks voters to provide the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources the option to provide and management of certain facilities by non-state entities. What the question does not detail is that if passed the authorizing Act would also provide for a “lockbox” on the Parks Revolving Fund to ensure revenue deposited into this account is allocated to support and maintain properties within the state park system. - California voters are being asked to vote on [Proposition 53](http://www.lao.ca.gov/ballot/2016/Prop53-110816.pdf) a bill that will ask voters to consider how projects funded via bonds are approved. - Illinois voters are being tasked with voting on a single statewide ballot measure. [Question 1](http://www.wpsdlocal6.com/story/33054278/proposed-illinois-amendment-could-secure-transportation-funding) asks voters to approve a “lockbox” on the state transportation budget. If approved, Illinois would join 30 states that currently place constitutional restrictions on how transportation revenue can be spent. Maryland and Wisconsin voters most recently passed such measures in 2014. - Maine’s [Question 6](http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_127th/chapters/PUBLIC478.asp) comes on the heels of 2015’s Question 3 which also approved funding for the state’s roadways and bridges. - New Jersey will put [Public Question 2](http://nj.gov/state/elections/2016-results/2016-public-question-2-english.pdf) on the ballot to increase funding for transportation. While this will not solve the current crisis facing the State Transportation Trust Fund, the question will dedicate an additional 3-cents of the current gas tax to the Transportation Trust Fund. In addition to these statewide measures, there are also a couple of cities and regions that will vote on improvements to public transit: - Residents of the [City of Atlanta and Fulton County, Georgia](http://www.mdjonline.com/neighbor_newspapers/atlanta-oks-marta-projects-for-nov-vote/article_06bf10e4-3a1e-11e6-a0bd-632edbe727cb.html) will see a question on their ballot asking them to approve additional funding for its public transit system, MARTA. Just a half-penny sales tax increase would be imposed if the ballot measure passes. It is expected to increase revenue by $2.5 billion over the next 40 years. - Counties serviced by the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan have [approved language](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2016/08/16/counties-approve-regional-transit-millage-language/88872622/), if approved, is estimated to raise $4.7 billion over 20-years for the RTA. The 1.2-mill property tax ($1.20 per $1,000 of taxable value) requires a majority of votes across Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties. - Several [San Francisco area communities](http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2016/09/08/bay-area-mayors-show-support-for-bart-measure-rr/) will see a measure attempting to raise an estimated $3.5 billion over approximately the next 50 years. The revenue generated by the property tax to be imposed on homeowners will be dedicated to replacing and modernizing the BART transit system which is expected to increase capacity by 75% in 2040. November is a time to focus public officials’ attention on the infrastructure needs in your backyard by casting your vote. ASCE is here to help inform you of the decision to be made at the bottom of the ballot in your home state. Stay tuned over the next few weeks as we provide you with additional information you’ll need as you prepare to head into the voting booth. Most importantly, don’t forget to get out and vote! 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All Eyes Turn to House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-passes-major-water-resources-bill-all-eyes-turn-house/) **Published:** September 15, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&description=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")![WRDA Senate vote count](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/WRDA-Senate-vote-count.jpg)In a major victory for ASCE and other infrastructure stakeholders (i.e. everyone!) the Senate on Thursday passed S.2848 the Water Resources Development Act of 2016 in a vote of 95-3. In many ways, passing the bill should be a no-brainer, as WRDA will increase America’s competitiveness by preparing ports and harbors for post-Panama Canal renovation sized ships, establish a long-awaited dam rehabilitation program and authorize major ecosystem restoration projects across dozens of states. However, in an era of tightening federal budgets, partisan deadlock and election-year rhetoric many are calling WRDA’s passage no small miracle. It’s difficult to find any bill pass with such favorability, let alone a multibillion dollar one. WRDA is now the legislative envy of other bill in town—bringing together two of the Senate’s arguably most polar opposite personalities—Jim Inhofe (R-OK) and Barbara Boxer (D-CA), who’ve made the case on just how important flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration are to communities around the county. It also helps that the Congressional Budget Office predicts that while the bill “costs” nearly $10 billion, it will actually *save* the U.S. taxpayer $6 million dollars over ten years. Presumably, that has something to do with risk mitigation and maintenance activities the bill provides, allowing engineers to get ahead of problems before unscheduled delays or infrastructure failures stack up. Included in the final bill are several programs ASCE has worked for decades to pass. A dam rehabilitation program housed under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will allow nonfederal dam owners to apply for small grants to rehabilitate, remove or repair high hazard dams. There’s also several provisions to assist communities in upgrading their drinking water and wastewater systems, including assistance for Flint, Michigan to help recover from the lead contamination the community suffered last year. The legislation authorizes 27 new projects at the Army Corps of Engineers, 30 new feasibility studies and modernizes several new projects already underway. In April the House passed a much narrower bill, mostly focused on Army Corps Chief’s Reports and feasibility studies. The House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee held an updated hearing on their bill Thursday and are expected to begin full consideration of the bill next week and pass a bill before returning home in October. The hope is while Congress is home for election campaigning, the difference of the bills can be reconciled and prepared for quick passage in December. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Passes%20Major%20Water%20Resources%20Bill%3B%20All%20Eyes%20Turn%20to%20House&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Water’s Winning Week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-waters-winning-week/) **Published:** September 16, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Water%E2%80%99s%20Winning%20Week&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Thursday was a big day for water infrastructure. With the passing of WRDA in the Senate*,* [*Imagine a Day Without Water*](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/) could not have fallen on a more fitting day. Yesterday hundreds of organizations across the country, including water agencies, mayors, engineers, schools and business and labor leaders, joined forces to raise public awareness about water and wastewater problems. We all know we depend on water, but this [video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=czrAmuF53Co) by the U.S. Water Alliance illustrates how absolutely central water is to our everyday life. Due to the out-of-sight nature of water infrastructure, many don’t realize the extent to which our water infrastructure needs TLC. The aging issues of underground pipes don’t receive much attention from the public until a major water crisis like that in Flint, Mich. occurs. However, [many pipes and water mains are over 100 years old](http://finance.yahoo.com/news/america-water-infrastructure-major-overhaul-201300636.html), and an estimated 1.7 trillion gallons of water are wasted every year due to lack of pipe replacement and broken pipes. Many challenges plague our water systems. According to the [American Water Works Association](https://www.awwa.org/Portals/0/files/resources/water%20utility%20management/sotwi/2015-AWWA-State-of-the-Water-Industry-Report.pdf) (AWWA), the investment needs for water and wastewater systems are higher than what is currently being invested. An article in the [Alliance for Manufacturing](http://www.americanmanufacturing.org/blog/entry/water-water-everywhere-but-way-too-often-its-undrinkable) explains the details of where maintenance is most required in water infrastructure. But of course each community [faces its own challenges](http://mountainx.com/blogwire/hendersonville-to-observe-national-imagine-a-day-without-water-campaign/), whether it be drought, flooding, infrastructure failure, sewer overflows, poor water quality, and climate change are stressing our water and wastewater systems. [Other infrastructure that relates to water is also in need of increased investment. On Thursday, the Senate passed WRDA](http://sports.yahoo.com/news/water-municipal-sector-applauds-senate-175544441.html) to help invest in navigation, flood management, and ecosystem restoration projects. The [bill also provides](http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2016/09/senate-passes-wrda-water-sector-responds.html) critical investment to help communities reduce public health risks posed by lead, targets aid to rural drinking water systems, bolsters funding for water technology innovation, jumpstarts an innovative financing program for water infrastructure projects, and makes common sense reforms to the Clean Water Act (CWA) to ensure clean water investments remain affordable to lower-income ratepayers. Now it’s up to the House of Representatives to move their bill forward so that WRDA can become law. 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These projects showcase the power that innovation and investment can have to solve problems and improve our infrastructure. “[Rebuilding Stronger](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/transportation/rebuilding-stronger)” and “[Sustainable Solution](http://ascegamechangers.org/topics/water/sustainable-solutions)s” are the new trends we’ve identified that are shaping the way infrastructure is designed, built, and maintained. The projects in these two new trends demonstrate that resilient and sustainable infrastructure are more than buzz words—they are tangible solutions to the new challenges U.S. infrastructure is facing. Check out all the new #GameChangers: - **[San Francisco International Airport’s Air Traffic Control Tower](http://ascegamechangers.org/462/prepared-to-stay-in-control)** - **[New Jersey Transit Resiliency Improvements following Superstorm Sandy](http://ascegamechangers.org/464/on-the-rise-to-become-more-resilient)** - [**Nashville International Airport’s Air Conditioning**](http://ascegamechangers.org/466/sustainable-airport-conditioning) - **[Brooklyn’s 26th Ward Wastewater Treatment Plant](http://ascegamechangers.org/468/greening-a-treatment-plant)** - **[Newark Riverfront Park](http://ascegamechangers.org/470/parks-can-fight-pollution)** - **[S. Army Corps of Engineers Beach–*fx* Risk-Reward Tool](http://ascegamechangers.org/472/beach-fx-risk-reward-tool)** - **[Cedar Rapids Flood Control System Master Plan](http://ascegamechangers.org/440/flood-planning-never-looked-so-green)** - **[RainReady Midlothian](http://ascegamechangers.org/442/getting-to-rainready)** - **[U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Dam Inspection with Microbot Drones](http://ascegamechangers.org/446/use-a-dam-microbot-drone)** - **[BNSF Railway Inspection with Drones](http://ascegamechangers.org/448/fly-by-rail-inspection)** - **[ Army Corps of Engineers Acoustic Underwater Inspection](http://ascegamechangers.org/450/acoustic-look-at-underwater-infrastructure)** - **[City of Syracuse Water Main Magnetic Sensors](http://ascegamechangers.org/452/listening-to-pipes)** - **[Rutgers University Bridge Evaluation and Accelerated Structural Testing Laboratory (BEAST)](http://ascegamechangers.org/454/beast-ly-predictions)** - **[Arlington, Texas Sewer-Exploring Robot](http://ascegamechangers.org/457/sewer-exploring-robot)** - **[Las Vegas WaterStart](http://ascegamechangers.org/459/innovating-together-with-waterstart)** And if you know of one we’ve missed,[ let us know](http://ascegamechangers.org/about#submit). We’re on the hunt for #GameChangers to include in the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Game%20Changers%20are%20here%21&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FGC-Squares-and-Title-Logo.png&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Game%20Changers%20are%20here%21 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Game%20Changers%20are%20here%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** energy, freight, gamechangers, transportation, water --- ### [More Americans Dying on Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/more-americans-dying-on-roads/) **Published:** September 21, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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This represents a [7.2% increase](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812318) in deaths from 2014, the largest percentage increase since 1966. While Americans drove more in 2015 than 2014 and statistically the more people drive, the more crashes there will be, the frequency of traffic fatalities also went up. Fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) increased to 1.12 in 2015 from 1.08 in 2014. The number and frequency of deaths due to motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. has gone down over the last 50 years, but the recent rise is cause for serious concern. ![fatalities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/fatalities.jpg "buffalonews")*Source: [NHTSA](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812318)* Eighteen percent of 2015’s traffic fatalities were pedestrians and bicyclists. Both of these roadway user categories saw a substantial increase in their fatality rates from 2014 to 2015 (+9.5% for pedestrians and +12.2% for bicyclists). These deaths underscore the importance of communities incorporating “complete streets,” which are designed and operated for the safety and convenience of all users. The reduction in traffic fatalities over the last 50 years is frequently credited to a combination of vehicle improvements, such as air bags and electronic stability control, and behavioral changes, such as increased seat belt use and reduced drunk driving, but it is important to remember the impact roadway infrastructure itself can have. Improvements in road design (such as adding shoulder rumble strips, guard rails and medians, widening lanes/shoulders and more visible road markings), road materials (such as high friction surface treatments) and road operation (such as improved traffic signal timing) can all make roads safer and reduce traffic deaths. The Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) collects data, performs research and provides funding to states for strategic, data-driven roadway improvements with the goal of significantly reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries on public roads. The program was reauthorized last year in the FAST Act and given a small budget increase. With traffic fatalities rising, the HSIP will be more important than ever and should be continued and expanded. The White House and the Department of Transportation are [inviting](https://www.transportation.gov/fastlane/2015-traffic-fatalities-data-has-just-been-released-call-action-download-and-analyze) tech companies, universities and even the general public to analyze crash data and help determine the causes of the surge in traffic fatalities. The White House released a statement saying, “The journey toward zero deaths on our roads will be a long one, but data will provide the guiding lights to take us there.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=More%20Americans%20Dying%20on%20Roads&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FWeather-related_multi-car_crash_5495544216.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=More%20Americans%20Dying%20on%20Roads "Share on 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"Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FWeather-related_multi-car_crash_5495544216.jpg&description=More%20Americans%20Dying%20on%20Roads "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=More%20Americans%20Dying%20on%20Roads "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=More%20Americans%20Dying%20on%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** road safety, transportation --- ### [Tennessee’s Infrastructure Grades Are In](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tennessees-infrastructure-grades-are-in/) **Published:** September 27, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Memphis to Nashville, Tennessee is known for its influence in music. The state’s slogan boasts “America at its best.” However, according to the release of today’s[ *Report Card for Tennessee’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tennessee/tennessee-overview/) many infrastructure areas aren’t at their best. The Report Card gave the state’s infrastructure a “C” GPA. But that average grade will not cut it when it comes to the challenges to come from aging infrastructure and a growing population. The state needs increased investments, and long-term, sustainable funding plans if its infrastructure will live up to the “at its best” motto. The report gave dams the lowest grade of “D,” in large part to the many unknowns of the state’s farm pond dams. Bridges received the highest grade of “B,” a testament to the focus on rehabilitating 193 state-owned structurally deficient bridges in recent years, along with the state’s overall good bridge health. Explore the [full Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/2016-TN-Infrastructure-Report-Card-Full-Report-Final-1.pdf) and if you live in Tennessee, [share it with your elected leaders.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=249153) With Tennessee at a crossroads of a growing population and aging infrastructure, the state needs to prioritize investment and modernization. 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Preventing critical dollars received by the State Parks Fund and the State Parks Revolving Fund, from being diverted to other public accounts will ensure Alabamians have ample resources for the preservation and enhancement of park facilities. Alabama recently saw the [closure of 5 State Parks](http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2015/09/5_alabama_state_parks_set_to_c.html) at the end of 2015 reducing the number of state parks to just 17. These Parks were shuttered because their operating costs exceeded their revenue. A “yes” vote may help prevent the future closure of parks by ensuring the state’s Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has a dedicated and protected revenue source. ASCE supports immediate and sustained action to reinvest in our park systems. This action should consider both protection of our national heritage and enhancement of the experience of park visitors. ASCE also believes that monies collected through on-site user fees and concessionaire agreements should be available to be used for on-site maintenance, operations and enhancements. According to its 75th Annual Report, 80 to 90 percent of the annual funding for state’s parks comes from customer fees, not taxes. Alabama State Parks had $375 million economic impact which includes $140 million in earnings for thousands of people in various segments of the workforce. These same parks generate $10.9 million in state and local taxes. Why not help ensure the monies we invest in our recreation is committed to maintain and improve our favorite vacation spots? Likewise, let’s prevent future economic losses created by the potential closure of these facilities. When you head to the polls on November 8, remember to cast a “yes” vote on [Amendment 2](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/alabama). 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2016](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5303/text) late yesterday afternoon by a vote of 399-25. The $11.5 billion bill authorizes over three dozen Army Corps of Engineers flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects and studies across the country. In addition to the base text reported out of the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee nearly [40 amendments](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/house-bill/5303/amendments) were added to the bill on the House floor. The [final amendment](https://www.congress.gov/amendment/114th-congress/house-amendment/1478) to the bill authorizes $170 million in aid for Flint, Michigan to assist with the drinking water crisis. For months Congress has been struggling with how to respond to the drinking water issue in Flint. At one point earlier this week, democrats were prepared to shut down the government unless the Flint issue was resolved. Around midnight Tuesday, leaders agreed to address Flint in the House WRDA bill, which cleared the way for both short term government spending bill and gave WRDA the votes necessary to pass. Prior to the Flint amendment, democrats threatened to block the bill because another provision requiring funds in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) to be spent every year was stripped out last minute. Democrats led by T&I Ranking Member Peter Defazio (D-OR) wanted to ensure the HMTF was used to the fullest extent each year, whereas now its funds are subject to an unpredictable annual appropriations process. The House WRDA bill is much narrower than the [version passed in the Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/senate-passes-major-water-resources-bill-all-eyes-turn-house/) two weeks ago by a vote of 95-3. The Senate bill includes a similar list of Army Corps projects, $220 million for Flint and an entirely separate title dedicated to improving the nations drinking water and clean water infrastructure. The additional water infrastructure programs will be the subject of intense the negotiations between Senate and House staff while Congress is home campaigning prior to the November election. When congress returns for the lame duck session in December, the hope is there will be agreement on a WRDA bill that both chambers can easily pass and send to the President’s desk. Congress has committed to passing a WRDA bill every two years, with the last one passing in 2014. Prior to that WRDA bills passed in 2007 and 2000. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Safe%20Roads%20Amendment%20Protects%20Illinois%20Transportation%20Dollars&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The “[Safe Roads Amendment](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/illinois)” is a statewide ballot measure that asks voters to decided how the state can spend its transportation dollars. More specifically, this measure will protect transportation revenue (like the gas tax, tolls, licenses and vehicle registration fees) from being diverted to non-transportation projects. Illinois is following in the footsteps of its neighbor Wisconsin, who along with Maryland, passed a similar measure to protect its transportation revenue in 2014. Nearly $6.8 billion has been diverted from the state’s Road Fund over the last 13 years. These are critical dollars that can be used to maintain or improve our roads to ensure public safe and ease of mobility for goods and services throughout the state. A vote “**for”** provides a [reliable source of transportation funding](http://www.whig.com/20160925/illinois-safe-roads-amendment-will-end-raids-on-transportation-budget) without the creation of new taxes, tolls or user fees. When going to the polls on November 4, remember this: - A “lock box” will be created ensuring funds will only be able to be used for transportation related purposes. - You will prevent further raiding of the state’s transportation dollars. - The measure will have no effect on current or future tax rates or spending levels. - Ensuring funds are available for construction and maintenance of state and local roads will help reduce congestion, improve safety and reliability, create jobs, and boost the state’s economy. Help push the **Safe Roads Amendment** over the 60% approval threshold it needs to become law. Go to the polls on November 8 and vote “for” to ensure that revenue raised by the gas tax is put back into Illinois roads and bridges. When you head to the polls on November 8, remember to cast a “for” vote on [the Safe Roads Amendment](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/illinois). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Safe%20Roads%20Amendment%20Protects%20Illinois%20Transportation%20Dollars&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, state, transportation --- ### [New Jersey Puts Transportation Front & Center This Fall](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-jersey-puts-transportation-front-center-this-fall/) **Published:** October 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Despite what’s traditionally the heat of summer construction season, shovels have been put down and heavy equipment silenced by the impasse between Governor Christie and leaders from the State Legislature. On September 30, Governor Christie, Senator Sweeney and Representative Prieto [reached a compromise](http://www.nj.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/09/christie_dems_announce_deal_to_end_road_funding_cr.html) that will fund the State Transportation Trust Fund and get projects moving again. A vote was expected October 5, however the Legislature opted instead to [postpone](http://newyork.cbslocal.com/2016/10/05/nj-gas-tax-vote/) weighing in on the compromise bill a few more days. The agreed upon bill will raise the gas tax [23-cents per gallon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-must-fix-the-transportation-trust-fund/) while providing an additional tax offset by gradually reducing the state sales tax. We expect legislators to cast their votes on Friday and urge you to [contact your state legislators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=217893) to tell them to vote “yes” on this measure. In addition to ensuring the legislature gets their job done this fall, we need you to head to the polls on November 8 to cast a vote on how New Jersey funds its infrastructure this fall. Voters will be asked to consider whether to dedicate all gas and diesel tax revenue to the Transportation Trust Fund (TTF). This will ensure that the investment from the increased gas tax does what its intended to do: improve transportation. [Question 2](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/newjersey) proposes dedicating all gas and diesel tax revenue to the TTF. Currently, only the first 10.5 cents of the gas and diesel taxes are dedicated to the TTF, while revenue from the tax on the gross receipts of petroleum products is only dedicated up to $200 million. Under the current gas tax, closing the gap has the potential to raise an estimated $35 million each year for the TTF. This comes from approximately $20 million by dedicating the remaining 3-cent diesel fuel tax and an additional $15 million from the 4-cent gross petroleum product tax. If passed, revenue gains for roads and bridges will likely increase once the new gas tax rate is put into effect. Take stock of New Jersey’s roads and make sure you’re doing your part to give the state the 21st Century Infrastructure it deserves! 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=California%20Decides%20How%20Voters%20Impact%20Infrastructure%20Projects&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[Proposition 53](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/california) is a statewide ballot measure that asks voters to consider whether the state may sell revenue bonds for projects expected to cost over $2 billion. This [ballot measure](http://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2016/general/en/pdf/text-proposed-laws.pdf#prop53) would specifically apply to all projects financed, owned, operated, or managed by the state as well as those of joint agencies formed between the state and localities, another state, or the federal government. Under the California Constitution, state general obligation bonds need voter approval before the state can use them to pay for a project. State revenue bonds, however, do not currently need voter approval under existing state law. On November 8, voters in California will be given the choice of maintaining status quo (casting a “no” vote) or requiring that projects exceeding $2 billion receive voter approval for bonds to be sold (casting a “yes” vote). The ASCE Region 9 Board of Governors has issued an [open letter to members](http://files.constantcontact.com/9787b4ec301/98816cd8-4884-48b1-8ed6-09e44963c88c.pdf) encouraging a “no” vote on this measure. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) supports financially responsible actions by federal, state and local governments to meet America’s infrastructure needs. These actions should support established project and program management principles, including new service and delivery models, innovative financing, appropriate research and technology transfer, and should conform to the principles of sustainability. For this reason, ASCE opposes Proposition 53 and encourages voters to cast a “no” vote. Investment in America’s infrastructure has been deferred and has not focused on either the demand for new facilities and services or the maintenance and repair needs of the aging infrastructure systems. The results are evident in traffic and airport congestion, unsafe bridges and dams, substandard educational facilities, deteriorating roads and inadequate utility systems. Let’s not further deter or delay project completion by requiring funding receive voter approval – something that only comes around every two years. When you head to the polls on November 8, remember to cast a “no” vote on [Proposition 53](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/california). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=California%20Decides%20How%20Voters%20Impact%20Infrastructure%20Projects&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment, state --- ### [Maine Voters Asked to Approve $100 Million Infrastructure Bond](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/maine-voters-asked-to-approve-100-million-infrastructure-bond/) **Published:** October 18, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Maine%20Voters%20Asked%20to%20Approve%20%24100%20Million%20Infrastructure%20Bond&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")[Question 6 ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/maine) is a statewide ballot measure that asks voters to consider whether the state may issue $100 million in bonds for transportation and other infrastructure projects. This is the third time in recent years that Maine voters will be asked to make a significant investment in the state. Each of the previous measures passed with an overwhelming approval by the voters and [according to early poll data](http://www.pressherald.com/2016/09/27/poll-shows-strong-voter-support-for-transportation-bonds/), passage of this bond measure seems highly likely. This year’s [bond measure](http://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/bills_127th/chapters/PUBLIC478.asp) will ask voters to approve issuing $100 million in bonds for infrastructure. Approximately, 80% will be dedicated to highway and bridge construction and maintenance. The remaining 20% will be allocated to ports, harbors, marine transportation, aviation, rail, and trails. It will also ensure the state qualifies for federal matching funds for transportation projects. ASCE supports financially responsible actions by federal, state and local governments to meet America’s infrastructure needs. These actions should support established project and program management principles, including new service and delivery models, innovative financing, appropriate research and technology transfer, and should conform to the principles of sustainability. When you head to the polls on November 8, help Maine fulfill its [three year work plan](http://maine.gov/mdot/projects/workplan/docs/2016/MaineDOTWorkPlan2016_2017_2018.pdf) by casting a “yes” vote on [Question 6](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/maine). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Maine%20Voters%20Asked%20to%20Approve%20%24100%20Million%20Infrastructure%20Bond&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment, states --- ### [A Plan for Aging Dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-plan-for-aging-dams/) **Published:** October 20, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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for U.S. Waterways](https://www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/report/2016/10/18/146287/aging-dams-and-clogged-rivers/).* The report makes the economic case for the need to increase investment in our infrastructure, citing [ASCE’s *Failure to Act* ](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/)economic study that found we’re currently paying about half our nation’s infrastructure bill across 10 categories of infrastructure. It also points to the safety risks of this underinvestment, particularly given the[ “D” grade for our nation’s dams ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dams/)in the *2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The report was released with a panel discussion with stakeholders ranging from the Nez Perce Tribe to the Deputy Secretary of the Interior. Dams tend to be among the more forgotten pieces of infrastructure, given attention primarily when something goes wrong. This report is helping to raise awareness about the importance of dam infrastructure, and the challenges our nation’s 84,000 aging dams are facing. While many dams perform useful purposes, such as drinking water, irrigation, hydropower, flood control, and recreation. However, others have outlived their useful lives, no longer serving the purpose for which they were intended. Repairing, rehabilitating, and removing dams is costly. The Association of State Dam Safety Officials estimates that it will require an investment of $21 billion to repair aging, yet critical, high-hazard dams. But there are solutions that can help address these challenges, increasing our dam safety. One is in Senate’s version of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which creates a national dam rehabilitation program to repair, rehabilitate, and remove non-federal dams. It is now up to the leaders of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to include this valuable program in the final version of the bill. CAP’s report also includes policy recommendations to increase our dam safety, including incentivizing the removal of obsolete dams and modernizing dams the are providing useful service. Stay tuned to find out if the National Dam Rehabilitation Program comes to fruition. 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measures](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news-tag/2016ballotinitiatives) that will appear on a handful of statewide ballots. Now it’s time to look even closer to home at key questions that will be asked at the local level. Transportation funding, transit in particular, is a [common ballot question](http://www.npr.org/2016/09/21/494617390/november-voters-will-be-asked-to-raise-taxes-to-fund-transit-projects) this fall in major cities and metropolitan regions from coast to coast. This year’s election will see nearly [twice as many](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=43248&page=1) transportation related measures as 2014. In fact, so far this year 55 transportation funding measures have been considered in primary elections and 50 of them have successfully been approved. Those measures already passed are expected to generate $4.258 billion in new revenue for those cities and counties. You can read about these and the votes coming up on November 8 in the September [State Funding Initiatives Report](http://transportationinvestment.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Sept-2016-State-Transportation-Funding-Initiatives-Report.pdf) issued by the Transportation Investment Advocacy Center. Among these ASCE is following these local transportation questions: - Residents of the [City of Atlanta and Fulton County, Georgia](http://www.mdjonline.com/neighbor_newspapers/atlanta-oks-marta-projects-for-nov-vote/article_06bf10e4-3a1e-11e6-a0bd-632edbe727cb.html) will see a question on their ballot asking them to approve additional funding for its public transit system, MARTA. Just a half-penny sales tax increase would be imposed if the ballot measure passes. It is expected to increase revenue by $2.5 billion over the next 40 years. - Counties serviced by the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan [approved language](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/detroit/2016/08/16/counties-approve-regional-transit-millage-language/88872622/) for a proposition, if passed, is estimated to raise $4.7 billion over 20-years for the RTA. The 1.2-mill property tax ($1.20 per $1,000 of taxable value) requires most votes across Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties. - From Sacramento to San Diego, several [cities and counties in California](http://www.npr.org/2016/09/21/494617390/november-voters-will-be-asked-to-raise-taxes-to-fund-transit-projects) are considering a tax increases to fund maintenance and improvements in public transit. Combined these measures are estimated to generate $144 billion in new revenue. One non-transportation measures we’re following this fall will appear on the ballot in the City of New Orleans: - [New Orleans voters](http://www.nola.com/politics/index.ssf/2016/07/new_orleans_seeks_property_tax.html) will be asked to extend the 4.46-mill property tax ($4.46 per $1,000 of taxable value) that supports the maintenance and operation of the city’s drainage system. The system currently relies exclusively on the millage tax for its funding. If passed, the tax will remain in place for an additional 30 years and is estimated to continue to supply about 28% of the budget, or $15 million annually. This year’s vote represents one of three that will be put before voters in upcoming election cycles. November is a time to focus public officials’ attention on the infrastructure needs in your backyard by casting your vote. Be sure to head to the polls November 8 and make your voice heard! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Localities%20Ask%20Voters%20to%20Invest%20in%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment, states --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Transit needs in the spotlight](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-transit-needs-in-the-spotlight/) **Published:** October 28, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20needs%20in%20the%20spotlight&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")There’s probably no better example in the U.S. of the negative impact that inadequate funding has on our infrastructure than public transit, especially for those who rely on it. The [DOT recently announced](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-department-transportation-announces-147-million-improve-transit-access-selected) that 16 transit agencies around the country will receive a share of $14.7 million in grants to support [comprehensive planning ](https://www.transit.dot.gov/funding/grants/fiscal-year-2016-transit-oriented-development-tod-planning-projects) to improve access to public transit. Recipients include the Regional Transportation District and City and County of Denver, the City of Phoenix, and the City of Milwaukee. While these grants for research and planning have a specific focus for communities that are developing new transit systems or expanding their existing systems, many other transit systems around the country need tremendous TLC. Transit systems in Washington D.C., San Francisco, Boston, New Jersey and more are all ailing and in need of investment. In Washington, D.C., neglected maintenance and aging cables have caused [many safety](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/metro-reopens-riders-surprised-at-number-of-safety-problems-found/2016/03/17/e05f28ce-ec27-11e5-b0fd-073d5930a7b7_story.html) concerns for the Metro, leading to [drastic maintenance regimens](http://www.wusa9.com/news/local/metro-to-shut-down-red-line-for-25-days/341675637) that are time-consuming and disruptive to riders. Thus, the cumulative effects of under maintaining have resulted in a [huge](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/metro-sank-into-crisis-despite-decades-of-warnings/2016/04/24/1c4db91c-0736-11e6-a12f-ea5aed7958dc_story.html) inconvenience to riders who depend on the system. In California, [San Francisco’s aging transit system, BART](http://www.sfexaminer.com/barts-aging-infrastructure-calls-upgrade-via-prop-rr/), is also suffering from the impact of deferred investment. In response to crumbling tunnel walls and warped tracks, local Bay Area transit proponents are advocating for a $3.5 billion bond to support the transit agency and [overhaul the system’s 1970s technology](http://blog.sfgate.com/inoakland/2016/10/24/bart-unveils-new-cars-ahead-of-november-vote/). The [Boston subway system](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2016/10/26/boston-subway-riders-kick-out-windows-and-doors-to-escape-smoke-filled-train/), the T, (MBTA) is also struggling with the pains of old age. Recently, the T orange line, which is at least 32 years old, had an incident where the [motor overheated](http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2016/10/26/severe-delays-red-line-between-harvard-and-alewife/gmZeKW7ErMvY2i2f3EdkPO/story.html?s_campaign=bostonglobe%3Asocialflow%3Atwitter) causing smoke to flood the train cars. This was not a first-time experience for Boston, as [smoke previously filled](https://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2015/01/29/red-line-experiences-severe-delays-after-burst-smoke-train/EHGbzDELrPcsmoD4F4ng7K/story.html) another older train car two winters ago. Amid growing concern over aging trains, [MBTA is slated to replace](http://www.bostonmagazine.com/news/blog/2013/10/22/mbta-ornage-line-trains-upgrades-red-line-governor-patrick/) them with new and improved cars by 2019. For the growing number of commuters who rely on transit, this infrastructure plays a vital role in their lives, yet it is one that often struggles the most for funding. Fortunately, states and the federal government recognize these needs and are making strides to invest in, improve and expand our nation’s transit systems to better serve users throughout the country. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Transit%20needs%20in%20the%20spotlight&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** transit --- ### [Stakeholders Weighing on Final Water Resources Package](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/stakeholders-weighing-on-final-water-resources-package/) **Published:** November 3, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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becoming law this year, stakeholders for the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2016 are beginning to double down on their priorities by weighing in with the leaders charged with reconciling difference in the House passed and Senate passed versions. The House and Senate both passed WRDA bills before heading home for the campaign season. Here are a few letters infrastructure stakeholders have sent to Committee Leadership this week to help get this bill cross the finish line and become law [**Full Use of Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund** ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/HMTF-Coalition-Support-Letter-Final-Oct-31-2016.pdf) Groups such as the National Manufacturing Association, American Society of Civil Engineers and American Association of Port Authorities signed a letter to advance language in Sec. 2003 of S.2848, which would ensure that the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund is allocated the fullest extent practicable each year. [**Drinking Water and Clean Water**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/WRDA-Reconciliation-Water-Sector-Letter-final-TI.pdf) Organizations representing the nation’s drinking water and wastewater utilities, including the American Society of Civil Engineers, National Association of Clean Water Administrators and Association for Metropolitan Water Agencies urged congress to adopt Title VII of S.2848, which would provide important policy changes and authorizations to improve our nations drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. [**Natural and Nature Based Features**](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Resilience-and-NB-Solutions_Coalition_Conference_Letter_10_18_16-002.pdf) Conservation groups, such as the Nature Conservancy and engineering groups like CH2M and the American Society of Civil Engineers teamed up to support language in the House WRDA bill that promote the use of natural and nature based features in water resources development projects. In addition to stakeholder letters, [several Senators sent a letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Dam_Safety-WRDA_Conference_Letter-Reed-20161024.pdf) to the chairs and ranking members of the Environment & Public Works Committee and the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee encouraging inclusion of the dam rehabilitation provision. The House and Senate have just a few short weeks to reconcile the differences in their respective WRDA bills, but a 95-3 vote in the Senate and 399-25 vote in the House, we’re confident Congress will send a new WRDA bill to President Obama before the end of the year. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Stakeholders%20Weighing%20on%20Final%20Water%20Resources%20Package&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Drinking Water, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, Drinking Water, ports, water resources development act, WRDA --- ### [Head to the Polls and Elect to Fund Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/head-to-the-polls-and-elect-to-fund-infrastructure/) **Published:** November 7, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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measures](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news-tag/2016ballotinitiatives/) across at least five states. The issues covered include everything from general infrastructure funding to transit to state parks. Transportation funding is one area that can expect to generate the most new revenue from Tuesday’s elections. In fact, so far this year 55 transportation funding measures that have already passed are expected to generate $4.258 billion in new revenue. You can read about these and the votes coming up on November 8 in the September [State Funding Initiatives Report](http://transportationinvestment.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Sept-2016-State-Transportation-Funding-Initiatives-Report.pdf) issued by the Transportation Investment Advocacy Center. Statewide transportation measures will appear on the ballot in [Illinois](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/safe-roads-amendment-protects-illinois-transportation-dollars/), [Maine](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/maine-voters-asked-to-approve-100-million-infrastructure-bond/), and [New Jersey.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/new-jersey-puts-transportation-front-center-this-fall/) We’re also seeing an interest in [parks in Alabama](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/alabama-looks-to-protect-park-revenue-through-amendment-2/). Here voters will be asked to ensure revenue generated at state parks will be dedicated to their preservation and enhancement. Currently these dollars are able to be diverted into other public accounts which over the years has resulted in a reduction in the total number of state parks. Meanwhile, in California ASCE is encouraging a “no” vote on [Proposition 53](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/california-decides-how-voters-impact-infrastructure-projects/). While this bill affects the sale of bonds, it has the potential to impact future infrastructure projects as they are often high ticket items for the states, its counties and cities, and other joint agencies. A “no” vote here will help ensure that infrastructure projects can be fully funded and efficiently completed. Whether you’re supporting infrastructure funding, or opposing a measure that will derail the process, November is the time to refocus public officials’ attention on the infrastructure needs by casting your vote. Check back in with us on Wednesday when we provide you with the outcome of your trip to the voting booth. Most importantly, don’t forget to get out and vote! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Head%20to%20the%20Polls%20and%20Elect%20to%20Fund%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment, states --- ### [Infrastructure Gets a Win on Election Night](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-gets-a-win-on-election-night/) **Published:** November 10, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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It was not only a time for states to take the temperature of the public on this critical issue but, also create new revenue streams and secure existing ones. Here’s what the election night returns said: - [Illinois](http://elections.chicagotribune.com/results/) and [New Jersey](http://www.nytimes.com/elections/results/new-jersey) become the 31st and 32nd states to vote to dedicate their fuel tax revenue to transportation projects. This is especially critical in New Jersey as they have voted to protect the additional revenue generated by the newly increased gas tax. - Maine voters once again approved a [transportation bond measure](http://maineelections.bangordailynews.com/) approved funding not only for the state’s roadways and bridges but, also airports, ports, rail and transit. Two non-transportation ballot measure we followed also fared well following yesterday’s vote: - In Alabama [Statewide Amendment 2](http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/page/2016_state_amendment_election_results.html#incart_big-photo) passed with 80% of the vote. The Department of Conservation and National Resources will now be able to ensure revenue generated by state parks and deposited into the Parks Revolving Fund is allocated to support and maintain its properties. - California voters were tasked with [Proposition 53](http://vote.sos.ca.gov/returns/ballot-measures/) a measure that would determine how the state funded infrastructure projects to be funded by state revenue bonds. ASCE urged a “no” vote on this measure as passage would have meant delaying funding any project requiring over $2 billion in bonds until approved by a ballot measure. This measure successfully failed with 51% of voters opposing the Proposition. ASCE also tracked several local ballot measures around the country, which put an emphasis on public transit. These measures looked to generate revenue to expand public transit networks to help alleviate congestion in major metropolitan areas. Here’s how public transit fared on election night: - Metro Atlanta overwhelmingly approved a [sales tax increase](http://www.ajc.com/news/national/november-8-2016-election-results/) to fund its public transit system, MARTA. The measure is expected to increase revenue by $2.5 billion over the next 40 years that will lead to system improvements and expansion. - Meanwhile in Michigan the votes on increasing the millage rate to fund the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan was [defeated](http://www.wxyz.com/news/voters-shoot-down-regional-transit-authority-proposal-in-metro-detroit). This measure required a majority of votes across Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Washtenaw counties. - There were [several local measures](http://usa.streetsblog.org/2016/11/07/transit-vote-2016-californias-transportation-funding-ballot-initiatives/) in California all of which would aid public transit systems in major metropolitan areas. [San Francisco](http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2016/11/09/voters-approve-14-billion-in-bay-area-transit-improvement-projects/) successfully passed its funding measure while similar measures in San Luis Obispo, Sacramento and San Diego were defeated. As you head out on your daily commute, whether behind the wheel or aboard local transit, consider these results prime examples of how you can contribute to infrastructure improvements with just a single vote. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Gets%20a%20Win%20on%20Election%20Night&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2016BallotInitiatives, infrastructure investment, states --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Over the River and Through the Skies, to Grandmother’s House We Go](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-over-the-river-and-through-the-skies-to-grandmothers-house-we-go/) **Published:** November 18, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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You’re not imagining it. [According to ](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/11/aaa-48-7-million-americans-travel-thanksgiving/) [AAA](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/11/aaa-48-7-million-americans-travel-thanksgiving/), nearly 49 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home between Wednesday Nov. 23, and Sunday, Nov. 27, making it the highest number of Thanksgiving travelers in nine years. Whether the increase is from [cheaper gas prices, optimism](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/nearly-49-million-americans-planning-thanksgiving-travel/2016/11/14/18ee496a-aa8a-11e6-a31b-4b6397e625d0_story.html) about the economy or another reason, nine out of ten of these 49 million travelers will drive to their Thanksgiving destinations. Our nation’s roads, which already need [widespread investment and maintenance](http://247wallst.com/special-report/2016/10/21/states-with-the-worst-roads/), will certainly be strained this holiday season. But don’t think you are off the hook if you aren’t traveling by car. According to Airlines for America (A4A), air travel is [expected to increase by 2.5 percent](http://airlines.org/news/a4a-projects-thanksgiving-air-travel-to-rise-2-5-percent-to-27-3-million-passengers-in-2016/) from last year—the equivalent of 55,000 more passengers a day. Fortunately, airlines are prepared for the increase. For example, [U.S. Airlines will offer 74,000 more seats](http://airlines.org/media/2016-thanksgiving-air-travel-forecast-infographic/) over the holidays than last year. [Amtrak has also made preparations](http://media.amtrak.com/2016/11/amtrak-preparing-thanksgiving-rush-expanded-schedules-seats/) for this year’s travel season by adding more trains and extra seats on routes in the Northeast, Midwest and on the West Coast. In 2015, Amtrak served more than 751,000 customers during the Thanksgiving holiday, and demand estimates are similar for this year. Whether you are taking a car, plane or train, you will be relying on our nation’s transportation infrastructure at a time when it’s being stretched to capacity. To ensure adequate and stable funding for America’s roads, bridges and transit, we must #FixTheTrustFund. Hopefully the [new administration](http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2016/11/16/trumps-infrastructure-plan-potholes-smooth-ride/93890402/) will make this a priority. 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[President-Elect’s Infrastructure Plan Gets Media Attention](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-elects-infrastructure-plan-gets-media-attention/) **Published:** November 21, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=President-Elect%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan%20Gets%20Media%20Attention&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F11%2Fwastewater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=President-Elect%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan%20Gets%20Media%20Attention "Share on 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The issue is one that the [Washington Post even cited in a plea for a substantive campaign season](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/lets-talk-bridges-not-burrito-bowls/2015/04/23/6017fad6-e9e1-11e4-aae1-d642717d8afa_story.html?utm_term=.3b7b44749167), and [story](http://www.npr.org/2016/11/01/500183751/on-one-thing-the-candidates-agree-infrastructure-needs-work) after [story](http://www.businessinsider.com/donald-trump-and-hillary-clinton-agree-on-infrastructure-spending-2016-10) highlighted the bipartisan issue. It’s two weeks past Election Day, and the dust is starting to settle on how the new administration is taking shape, and what its priorities will in the First 100 Days. Infrastructure remains among the most discussed issues, as [President-Elect Trump mentioned it specifically in his acceptance speech.](http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/09/politics/donald-trump-victory-speech/) There’s been significant media coverage on infrastructure and what has been said and is known about the Trump Infrastructure Plan. Here are a few articles and opinion pieces on what’s next for infrastructure policy under the 45th president: [Five Things to Know About Trump’s Infrastructure Plan – The Hill](http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/09/politics/donald-trump-victory-speech/) [Trump’s trillion-dollar infrastructure plan faces congressional scrutiny – CNN](http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/17/politics/donald-trump-infrastructure-plan-congress/) [Our infrastructure is in disrepair. Will Trump invest in it? – PBS](http://www.pbs.org/newshour/making-sense/column-infrastructure-boom-coming/) [Trump Eyes a Bipartisan Idea to Pay for Rebuilt Roads, Bridges – Roll Call](http://www.rollcall.com/news/trump-eyes-bipartisan-idea-pay-reubilt-roads-bridges?utm_name=newsletters&utm_source=rollcallheadlines&utm_medium=email#sthash.UkCfhdwg.dpuf) [Trump’s infrastructure plan: Potholes or a smooth ride? – USA Today](http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2016/11/16/trumps-infrastructure-plan-potholes-smooth-ride/93890402/) [How Trump Might Try to Fix Bridges and Highways – Bloomberg](http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2016-11-14/how-trump-might-try-to-fix-bridges-and-highways-quicktake-q-a) With House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi [indicating this could be an area of bipartisan agreement](http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/nov/9/nancy-pelosi-sees-common-ground-donald-trump-infra/), 2017 might be the year of infrastructure investment. There’s a [$1.6 trillion investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/grade-sheet/americas-infrastructure-investment-needs), so passing a bill that strategically improves our nation’s infrastructure without supplanting current funding would be a welcome change to raise our infrastructure grades. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President-Elect%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan%20Gets%20Media%20Attention&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure, Trump Infrastructure Plan --- ### [State Gear Up to Tackle Road Funding in 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-gear-up-to-tackle-road-funding-in-2017/) **Published:** December 1, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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additional revenue for surface transportation. In almost every state the recent increase was the first in nearly two decades. Even with the passages of last year’s [FAST Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/), states are still facing uncertainty when it comes to funding sources. Cars are becoming more fuel efficient, driving habits are changing and consumers are seeking out vehicles that run on alternative energy sources while most states’ gas taxes are not tied to inflation—and therefore lose value with each passing year. As we look to the 2017 legislative session we expect many states will take up legislation to address increasing revenue that can be invested into their roads and bridges. The gas tax increase is the most commonly discussed methods and we can expect to see legislation in states like [Indiana](http://www.journalgazette.net/news/local/indiana/Long-hints-at-gas-tax-for-roads-16451174) and [Tennessee](http://nashvillepublicradio.org/post/tennessee-republicans-set-wheels-motion-debate-gas-tax-hike-last#stream/0). Both of these states have tried in prior legislative sessions to move the needle on a gas tax increase and 2017 might be the year they succeed. . In 2015, another odd-year legislative session, we saw increases signed into law in nine states (at that time North Carolina signed a bill that will raise its gas tax but, only after it initially dropped the rate by a penny). [Missouri](http://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article117753263.html) and [Wisconsin](http://chippewa.com/ap/state/no-easy-answers-to-wisconsin-road-funding-problem/article_e8231d41-3f3c-51dd-97ca-87468d158eb5.html) again find themselves at an impasse when it comes to investment in their transportation system. Missouri attempted to increase its gas tax during its 2016 legislative session with a bill passing only one chamber. The state later included a 23-cent cigarette tax increase to fund roads and bridges on its November ballot which was ultimately defeated. Wisconsin on the other hand approved a lockbox to protect its transportation funding coffers but, has not be able to reach consensus on how to best fund road and bridge projects, maintenance and improvements. Another state to watch in 2017 is [Colorado](http://www.9news.com/traffic/cdot-looks-at-pay-by-mile-charge-for-colorado-drivers/350878509), which will launch a four month vehicle-miles traveled (VMT) pilot. They will join pilot programs currently underway in California and Oregon. We can also expect to see programs pop up in many [east coast states](http://www.taxanalysts.org/content/several-states-give-green-light-mileage-fee-pilot-programs) in the upcoming year as they vie for federal funding to determine the viability of interstate VMT programs. ASCE recommends that adequate funding for operating, maintaining, and improving the nation’s transportation system be provided by a comprehensive program with sustainable dedicated revenue sources. We will keep a watchful eye on these states as they move to close their transportation funding gaps and improve their transportation network. 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email")](mailto:?subject=State%20Gear%20Up%20to%20Tackle%20Road%20Funding%20in%202017&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, states, surface transportation --- ### [Help Get WRDA Finished](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/help-get-wrda-finished/) **Published:** December 2, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The bill is being conferenced by the House and Senate, which has been making good progress on a compromised bill that incorporates parts of each chamber’s version of WRDA. However, in the past 24 hours there have been some political roadblocks that may put a final bill in jeopardy. To help raise the grades for dams, inland waterways, levees, ports, and drinking water we need you to take action now! [Call the House and Senate Leaders,](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B207c00c3-00bc-416d-9426-54f608e4a5f3%7D_Congressional_Phone_numbers_.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2016-12-02-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) House Speaker Paul Ryan, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, and Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid and ask them to move WRDA to the floor for a vote before Congress adjourns for the year. Together we can help WRDA cross the finish line in 2016, getting it back on the two-year cycle that authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other water resources programs. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Help%20Get%20WRDA%20Finished&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Drinking Water, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** dams, Drinking Water, inland waterways, levees, ports, water resources development act, WRDA --- ### [The FAST Act Turns One, But The Work’s Not Done](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-fast-act-turns-one-but-the-works-not-done/) **Published:** December 5, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20FAST%20Act%20Turns%20One%2C%20But%20The%20Work%E2%80%99s%20Not%20Done&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This Sunday was the one year anniversary of the signing of the [FAST Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/fast-act-summary-part-one-the-funding/), the five-year federal surface transportation authorization. The law authorizes federal funding for highways, bridges, transit systems and railroads. The passage of the FAST Act was a victory for proponents of infrastructure and everyday Americans who use it. It provided a small increase in funding and was the first long-term authorization bill in years, which provides states the certainty to plan and build projects. However, the passage of the FAST Act did not mean Congress can be done with transportation infrastructure until 2020. Even with the increase in federal funding the FAST Act provided, the nation’s surface transportation system (its roads, bridges, rail and transit) is in need of repair and we’re investing less than half of what’s needed. In May of this year, ASCE released an [economic study](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf) examining the nation’s investment in infrastructure and its economic consequences. The study found the U.S. was on track to invest about $940 million in surface transportation over the next decade (from all levels of government and the private sector), leaving a **$1.1 trillion gap**. This underinvestment will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, impacting productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness and, most importantly, public safety. Every year this investment gap, along with that of other infrastructure categories, is not addressed it will cost American families $3,400. A large part of the problem is there has not been enough federal funding available for surface transportation infrastructure. The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is supposed to fund the federal government’s investments in roads, bridges and transit, but an insufficient revenue stream has limited these investments. The HTF is primarily funded by the federal motor fuels tax of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 on diesel. The tax has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has decreased its real value by 40%. To make up for the shortfall, Congress has been diverting general fund dollars into the HTF since 2008. Congress failed to provide the HTF a sustainable funding source in the FAST Act and instead relied once again on a general fund transfer. In order to fix the country’s existing infrastructure and build new infrastructure to meet the needs of our growing and evolving nation, the U.S. needs to treat infrastructure spending as an investment in its future. This must include providing the HTF a reliable and sufficient revenue source so the U.S. can get to work fixing and modernizing its roads, bridges and transit systems. Experience shows that it will take time to deliberate the best course of action and build consensus, so the 115th Congress will need to start working right away on fixing the trust fund, rather than waiting until the authorization runs out. Every day they delay, deteriorating infrastructure costs American families. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20FAST%20Act%20Turns%20One%2C%20But%20The%20Work%E2%80%99s%20Not%20Done&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, FAST Act, gas tax, highway trust fund, surface transportation --- ### [Congress Unveils Compromise Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-unveil-newly-compromised-water-resources-bill/) **Published:** December 6, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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after months of hashing out differences between their respective Water Resources Development Acts (S.2848 and H.R.5303) that each chamber passed earlier this year. The new bill, dubbed the [Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act](http://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20161205/CPRT-114-HPRT-RU00-S612.pdf) or WIIN Act not only includes a traditional Army Corps project authorization title, but also other water infrastructure programs such as aid to Flint, Mich. to assist in lead pipe replacement and provisions to help California with drought relief. The American Society of Civil Engineers sent letters of support to [House ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ASCE-WRDA16-Final-House-Passage-Dec-16.pdf)and [Senate ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/ASCE-WRDA16-Final-Senate-Passage-Dec-16.pdf)leadership. The compromise bill also includes a high-hazard dam rehabilitation and repair program, which was included in the original Senate version of WRDA that passed by a vote of 95-3. Here a few selected sections to keep an eye on: **Title I: Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (Army Corps of Engineers projects)** Sec. 1108 Funding for Harbor Maintenance Programs Changes the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) formula established in WRRDA 2014 to ensure distribution of funds will be 3% higher than the total resources from the year before. This ensures that distributions continue to increase, year-over-year, until 100% distribution of the funds in the HMTF are used for their intended purpose. Sec. 1111 Harbor Deepening Allows for a 75 percent federal share on harbor deepening projects up to 50 feet. With new Post-Panamax size ships entering U.S. ports, this provision allows a 75 percent federal cost-share for new construction (not just maintenance) up to 50 feet deep. The federal share was previously 50 percent for new construction deeper than 45 feet. Sec. 1122 Beneficial Use of Dredged Material Establishes a new pilot program for the beneficial use of dredge material. The pilot program allows the Army Corps to undertake 10 projects that would use dredge material for reducing storm surge, promote public safety, enhance aquatic habitat and stabilize shorelines. Importantly, the extra cost of using the material will be covered by the Corps, rather than the non-federal sponsor. Sec. 1184 Considerations of Measures Requires the Corps, in consultation with a non-federal project sponsor to consider the use of natural and nature based features for costal water resources projects. **Title II: Water and Wastewater Act of 2016** Sec. 2101 Sense of Congress on Appropriation of Levels While it’s not compulsory, this section provides language that supports a theme President-Elect Trump supports: increasing appropriations to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. Sec. 2201 Drinking Water Infrastructure Provides funds to assist Flint, Michigan to replace lead service lines. Sec. 2202 Sense of Congress Provides $20,000,000 for Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act. **Title III: Natural Resources** Sec. 3801 Reauthorization of Water Desalination Act of 1996 Reauthorizes $40 million for research, design and construction program to advance desalination. Sec. 5006 Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams Establishes a high hazard dam repair, rehabilitation or removal grant program under the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Authorized at $445 million over ten years. Stay tuned to the [@ASCEgovrel](https://twitter.com/ascegovrel) Twitter for progress on the bill in the coming days. 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transportation—the technology that will change everything. But there’s one part that won’t change: autonomous vehicles will still to drive on roads. And as you may have heard, our roads and bridges aren’t in great shape. So far, autonomous vehicles are being tested in select settings. In [Pittsburgh](http://www.businessinsider.com/uber-driverless-car-interior-photos-2016-12), Uber is testing a handful of self-driving cars with the goal of eventually switching its service to a fleet of autonomous vehicles. The ride-hailing app is even exploring [self-driving trucks](https://www.wired.com/2016/10/ubers-self-driving-truck-makes-first-delivery-50000-beers/) to make deliveries, with a successful 120-mile test run to deliver 50,000 cans of beer under their belt. Google has been testing its autonomous vehicles since 2009 and has self-driven more than 2 million miles. Uber and Google are hardly alone in the space, with a number of auto manufacturers and tech companies announcing they too are developing autonomous vehicles. Clearly driverless vehicles could open wide the doors of opportunity and improvement to our transportation landscape for both people and freight. [ASCE’s Interchange video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97ozvhFzvMI) elaborates on autonomous vehicles’ ripple effects on the transportation landscape and communities. Autonomous vehicles promise much in the arena of safety and travel convenience. According to the [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812318), in 2015, 35,092 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes in the United States, which averages out to 96 people per day. This represented a 7.2% increase from 2014 and was the largest percentage increase in nearly 50 years. Most crashes have a component of human choice (whether that’s impaired driving, distracted driving or unsafe driving), so removing the human driver from the equation could dramatically decrease crashes and save lives. Autonomous vehicles also have the potential to be an antidote to increasing congestion. The Texas A&M Transportation Institute’s [2015 Annual Urban Mobility Scorecard](https://mobility.tamu.edu/ums/media-information/press-release/) reported that traffic congestion causes drivers to waste more than three billion gallons of fuel and be stuck in their cars for nearly seven billion extra hours – 42 hours per rush-hour commuter per year. Autonomous vehicles could transform the definition of road capacity, as the [number of vehicles that can travel safely in a given lane](http://www.itsinternational.com/sections/nafta/features/infrastructure-and-the-autonomous-vehicle/) will greatly increase when computers are doing the driving. Elderly and physically disabled people who are unable to drive will also have a [chance to get around more freely](http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/09/automobiles/in-self-driving-cars-a-potential-lifeline-for-the-disabled.html?_r=0). While autonomous vehicles promise much in terms of congestion relief, safety improvements and modern conveniences, their advancement cannot come at the expense of maintaining our basic infrastructure system. The usability of autonomous vehicles is largely dependent on the quality of the roads and bridges that they will ride on—and currently that quality is lacking. One in ten U.S. bridges is structurally deficient and 20 percent of urban highways are in unacceptable condition. There is a [$504 billion rehabilitation backlog](http://bottomline.transportation.org/Documents/Bottom%20Line%202015%20Executuve%20Version%20FINAL.pdf) for the nation’s highways and bridges. While these statistics may not seem directly related to autonomous vehicles, roads and bridges in good condition are critical to any vehicle that may use them, despite how advanced it might be. The reality is that autonomous vehicles struggle to navigate [potholes, unclear lane markings and poor signage](http://www.reuters.com/video/2016/03/31/self-driving-cars-hit-a-pothole?videoId=367938578). The technology of the autonomous vehicle is close, yet our transportation infrastructure is stuck in the past, primarily due to insufficient funding. The best solution for this funding problem is fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) to ensure that there is a reliable and adequate revenue stream for transportation. The HTF is meant to fund the federal government’s investments in highways, bridges and transit. It is primarily funded by an 18.4 cent per gallon tax on gasoline and a 24.4 cent per gallon tax on diesel, which has not been raised since 1993. Inflation has cut its real value by 40%. Congress has relied on transferring general funds into the HTF to prop it up ($140 billion since 2008) instead of fixing its underlying revenue problem. The most direct and immediate way to #FixTheTrustFund is to increase the tax on gas and diesel fuel to stop the need for general fund transfers and allow for increased investment to address the backlog and modernize the system. Meanwhile, there should be additional pilot programs to test charging motorists based on how much they use roads with the long-term goal of using [mileage-based user fees](http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/ipd/revenue/road_pricing/defined/vmt.aspx) to fund the HTF. While it is not as exciting as robot cars, fixing our nation’s infrastructure through a long-term sustainable funding solution is the gateway to successfully implementing innovations like autonomous vehicles. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Autonomous%20Vehicles%3A%20Still%20need%20a%20road%20to%20drive%20on&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** autonomous vehicles, highway trust fund --- ### [A Big WIIN For Water Resources](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-big-wiin-for-water-resources/) **Published:** December 15, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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passed](https://floor.senate.gov/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=2276) the [Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/612/actions), which included a Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) title [by a vote of 78-21](http://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=114&session=2&vote=00163). The vote was one of the final acts of the 114th Congress. The House passed the same bill a few days earlier by [a vote of 360-61](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2016/roll622.xml).President Obama is expected to sign the bill in the next few days. This bill had been months—and in some ways years—in the making. Since the beginning ![WIIN Thank You](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/WIIN-Thank-You-203x203.png)of this year, ASCE has been actively working on getting a water resources bill passed, and restoring it to a two-year cycle. In February, ASCE provided Congressional testimony before both the Senate and House on the importance of passing a new water resources bill. The final bill includes [several of our priorities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/congress-unveil-newly-compromised-water-resources-bill/), including the creation of a High Hazard Dam Rehabilitation program and other important infrastructure programs, including authorization of 30 new projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. ASCE members sent nearly 5,000 emails to Capitol Hill urging passage during the final days of debate on the bill. Those final few days before the bill’s passage were fraught with consternation as a provision inserted last minute to assist with drought relief to western states rattled environmentalists and the bill’s primary Democratic author, California Senator Barbara Boxer, who worried that water transfers could affect the health of fishery populations. Those concerns did peel off nearly two dozen democratic votes in the Senate, however, the bill ultimately passed with strong bipartisan support. While Congress has vowed to pass a water resources bill every two years (the last one passed in 2014, but before that 2007) the authorization components of the bill still must be funded through annual appropriations. The 114th Congress concluded by passing a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government open and running through April 2017. This sort of stopgap funding measure is not the type of major injections of infrastructure investment necessary to reduce the estimated $1.6 trillion infrastructure funding gap that is expected by 2020. We are hopeful that the 115th Congress will work diligently to fund infrastructure programs and increase federal appropriations to important programs. In the meantime, [thank your Members of Congress who voted for WIIN by sending an email](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=222773). For more, read [Congress Unveils Compromise Water Resources Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/congress-unveil-newly-compromised-water-resources-bill/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=A%20Big%20WIIN%20For%20Water%20Resources&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2Fdrinkingwater.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=A%20Big%20WIIN%20For%20Water%20Resources "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20WIINS%20over%20Many&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FContainer_ship_New_Orleans.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20WIINS%20over%20Many "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20WIINS%20over%20Many&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")From farmers to manufacturers, shippers and countless water associations to all Americans, the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act’s benefits promise improvement across several water resource sectors. The act, [which authorizes nearly $10 billion in federal investment](http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2016/12/wiin-act-signed-by-pres-obama.html), will fund stormwater management projects, initiatives to help develop alternative water supplies to deal with persistent drought and more than 330 port, levee and dam projects. WIIN benefits our nation at state and local levels. [Michigan](http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2016/12/bill_with_flint_aid_also_inclu.html) celebrates the bill’s provision of up to [$170 million for Flint](http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2016/12/millions_in_federal_aid_approv.html) and significant funding for Great Lakes harbor maintenance and pollution cleanup. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) will receive $300 million a year through 2021 to maintain ports and strengthen programs for restoring and protecting fish and wildlife. In [California](http://www.recorderonline.com/news/congress-approves-water-bill/article_d436d7e4-c01c-11e6-93e0-07f872ebc7be.html), where drought has caused 1 million acres of farm land to go fallow, 2,400 private water wells to dry up and 35,000 people to lose jobs, residents are especially grateful for WIIN’s provision of $558 million for drought relief. WIIN will also greatly improve our nation’s ports. Thanks to input from the [American Association of Port Authorities (APA)](http://www.globaltrademag.com/global-logistics/u-s-congress-passes-water-resources-bill), WIIN modernizes the cost-share depth for navigation construction projects from 45 to 50 feet deep to reflect the growing size of the world vessel fleet, and ensures that Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) funding targets will increase by 3 percent over the prior year. [Georgia](http://savannahnow.com/news/2016-12-12/new-federal-water-bill-offers-benefits-georgia-ports) is excited that WIIN will fund the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project and maintenance fees for Savannah’s and Brunswick’s ports. [Florida](http://saintpetersblog.com/florida-congressional-delegation-scores-big-wiin-funding-everglades-water-projects/) is also praising the bill’s provision of more than $1.5 billion in funding for state projects including the Central Everglades planning project. One of the most exciting parts of WIIN from ASCE’s perspective is a new program for dams. The Dam Rehabilitation and Repair Act, thanks to hard work from [sponsors Sen. Jack Reed](http://cranstononline.com/stories/ch-dam-wp,119784) and [Sen. Shelley Moore Capito](http://www.montgomery-herald.com/news/capito-water-infrastructure-bill-will-modernize-improve-nation-s-waterways/article_c7e807be-c270-11e6-ad7d-d7dd83dc22e4.html), will establish a federal investment program to allow states and local governments to seek funding for the rehabilitation of high-hazard publicly-owned dams. The federal government will invest $445 million over ten years, providing 65 percent of funding, while states and local jurisdictions will provide 35 percent of matching funds. WIIN has many benefits that promise growth and improvement throughout the nation. Now that it’s been authorized, the next Congress will need to appropriate the provisions of the bill. Hopefully lawmakers can continue to work together in the new administration to appropriate the necessary funds for our nation’s water resources infrastructure. 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Commission%20Provides%20Assessment%20of%20Michigan%20Infrastructure "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F9237041694_71bd6c1823_q.jpg&description=Commission%20Provides%20Assessment%20of%20Michigan%20Infrastructure "Pin it with 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Infrastructure Commission](http://miinfrastructurecommission.com/meet-commissioners)” with the goal of producing a report by November that assessed the state of Michigan’s infrastructure, identified needs over the next 30-50 years and offered recommendations on how the state can best provide its residents with a modern infrastructure system. The concept of this Commission was seeded during Governor Snyder’s [State of the State Address](http://www.michigan.gov/documents/snyder/2016_Michigan_State_of_the_State_Transcript_511676_7.pdf) during which he specifically addressed the water crisis in Flint and acknowledged the state’s need to address the improvements needed by many of Michigan’s infrastructure systems among them roadways, bridges, energy, and ports. The 27 member Commission was made up of Directors of key state agencies and appointees selected by the Governor and State Legislature. Among the appointed members were stakeholders from the business community, environmental and infrastructure sectors, members of the engineering community and public utilities. ASCE Michigan Section Executive Director Ron Brenke, P.E. was among those at the table. The result of their collaboration was the recently released “[21st Century Infrastructure Commission Report](http://miinfrastructurecommission.com/21st-century-infrastructure-commission-report)” which identified the following: - Michigan must close a $4 billion per year investment gap in order to achieve a modern infrastructure system. This amounts to an over $60 billion gap over the next 20 years. - Even with the approval of a gas tax increase in 2015, Michigan’s transportation infrastructure still faces a $2.7 billion annual investment gap. - The state must establish a strategic way to better manage statewide infrastructure to enable the state to make better informed decisions about investing in the maintenance, rehabilitation, and/or development of new infrastructure. - In order to achieve greener and more sustainable communities, Michigan must aim to source approximately 30% of its electric energy from renewables and natural gas as well as aim for greater energy efficiency. - Investing in Michigan’s aging water systems is an investment in public health; many of Michigan’s community water systems were built 50-100 years ago. The report goes on to give specific recommendations and goals in the areas of water, transportation, energy and communications. The overall objective is to ensure the state is on the path to achieving a 21st Century Michigan that provides residents with a healthy environment, economic prosperity, reliable and high-quality services, and offers the state the most value given limited financial resources. We applaud Michigan’s efforts to assess the state of its infrastructure and identify critical needs. We are also hopeful that Michigan’s Legislature and Governor will work together to make many of the report’s recommendations a reality during the course of its 2017-18 legislative session. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Commission%20Provides%20Assessment%20of%20Michigan%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Traveling Ho Ho Home for the Holidays](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-traveling-ho-ho-home-for-the-holidays/) **Published:** December 22, 2016 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Holiday travel aside, our nation set a record for cumulative vehicle miles traveled (VMT) within just the first nine months of 2016. According to the [Federal Highway Administration](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/pressroom/fhwa1661.cfm), Americans drove 2.4 trillion miles this year through September alone, more than any previous year. [Theories behind this data](http://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article118951973.html) include cheaper gasoline prices and an improving economy. [According to AAA](http://gasprices.aaa.com/national-u-s-average-continues-slide-ahead-opec-meeting/), U.S. drivers paid the second lowest price for gasoline over Thanksgiving weekend since 2008, an average of $2.13 a gallon. That same data reported in late November that average gas prices were below $2 per gallon in 12 states, and that U.S. drivers have saved more than $27 billion at the gas pumps so far this year compared to the same period last year. And this year’s holiday season travel is predicted to be busy as well. AAA reports that more than 103 million Americans are predicted to travel for the holidays — the [highest level on record](http://newsroom.aaa.com/2016/12/holiday-travel-to-reach-the-highest-level-on-record-according-to-aaa/) — and 1.5 million more travelers than last year. Of that amount, 93.6 million people are expected to drive to their destinations, 6 million are expected to fly and 3.5 million will likely take other modes of transportation. Unfortunately, these impressive VMT increases also contribute to the wear and tear of our nation’s already beleaguered roads. Even with the FAST Act investment of $226 billion over five years for roads and bridges, it’s not enough to bring surface transportation infrastructure into a good state of repair. Hopefully lawmakers can work together in the new administration to create a long-term funding solution that will restore the roads and bridges our nation increasingly relies on. 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over a four-year period. As ASCE prepares to release its next Report Card on March 9, here are some of the most notable accomplishments that have happened since 2013, including many that were identified as ways to “raise the grade” in the 2013 recommendations. **Federal** **Transportation** December 2015 saw the signing of the FAST Act, which authorized federal surface transportation programs for five years. Congress had passed nearly 40 short-term extensions, so the passage of a long-term bill was a victory for proponents of infrastructure and everyday Americans who use it. The FAST Act provided a small increase in funding, but did not fix the Highway Trust Fund’s underlying revenue problem. The FAST Act included the creation of a “Nationally Significant Freight and Highway projects” program, which the Department of Transportation christened FASTLANE. The program provides $4.5 billion over five year (subject to appropriations) for highway and intermodal freight projects through a competitive grant program. The first round of recipients was announced in September 2016 and the 18 grantees received a combined $759.2 million. Another major stride was a reduction in structurally deficient bridges. The percentage of bridges that are classified as structurally deficient has decreased since the last report card. From 2012 to 2015, the percentage of bridges designated structurally deficient went from 11% to 9.6%. **Water Resources** The last four years have been banner for water resources projects and programs. Starting in 2013 Congress began working on a new Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). WRDA bills authorize new projects at the Army Corps of Engineers, such as port modernization, inland waterway maintenance and lock and dam upgrades. Congress passed a WRDA bill in 2014 (the first time since 2007) and promised to continue passing the bill every two years in an attempt to keep up with the nation’s most economically way of moving goods and ensuring the safety of millions of people living behind levees and dams. The bill included a new levee safety program, made important changes to the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and created a new innovative water project financing tool called the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). Keeping their word, Congressional leaders began drafting a new water resources bill in early 2016. After 10 months of work, a new Water Resources Development Act of 2016 passed in the last few hours of Congress meeting in December. The bill was included in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act (WIIN) which provided aid to Flint, Mich to assist wit the lead water crisis and also significant resources to California for drought relief. Finally, the 2016 bill included a new dam rehabilitation program that will help communities mitigate the risk of high hazard aging dams across the country. **Science and Research** American Innovation and Competitiveness Act (12/16/16) reauthorized most of the nation’s non-medical research and development programs including those at the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and other federal programs on innovation, manufacturing, and science and math education. ASCE supported the legislation. The National Windstorm Impact Reduction Act Reauthorization (9/13/15) reauthorized the program first established in 2004, largely through ASCE efforts, to reduce in the losses of life and property from windstorms through a coordinated effort aimed at improving the understanding of windstorms and their impacts and developing and encouraging the implementation of cost-effective mitigation measures to reduce those impacts. **STEM Education** Every Student Achieves Act (12/10/15) reauthorized the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and replaced No Child Left Behind Act of 2001. The ASCE-supported bill includes funding to support a wide range of STEM education activities, including teacher professional development and hands on learning. ASCE worked with the STEM Education Coalition to ensure that STEM (science-technology-education-mathematic) education remained a major focus of the bill. **State** Starting with Wyoming’s approval of a 10-cent gas tax hike in February 2013, we’ve seen gas tax increases or reforms enacted with bipartisan support—and the trend is expected to continue in 2017. Since then we have seen 16 states increase their gas taxes. The most recent state to do so was New Jersey with a 23-cent gas tax increase to help fund its Transportation Trust Fund. 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upgrade our infrastructure as Congress and several states return to session and roll up their sleeves to make infrastructure a priority. While the new administration committed to make infrastructure investment a priority, the timeline of a new bill is still unknown. According to recent reports about the new administration’s initial agenda, there will likely [not be an infrastructure bill within the first 100 days](http://fox61.com/2017/01/04/house-transportation-chair-no-infrastructure-package-in-first-100-days/), but it is expected to happen in the second 100 days. Many states, on the other hand, are already putting infrastructure issues on the table. In California, the first bills introduced in each chamber for the 2017 regular session address methods to raise [more than $6 billion](http://www.landlinemag.com/Story.aspx?StoryID=32566#.WG_x5vkrKUl) for state and local roads, trade corridors, and public transit. In [Indiana](http://www.ibtimes.com/cost-gas-2017-indiana-gop-plan-includes-new-taxes-2469587), lawmakers are proposing to invest in the state’s roads and bridges, which need more than $1 billion in additional funds, through new gasoline and vehicle taxes. In [Minnesota](http://www.kduz.com/2017/01/05/gov-dayton-proposes-1-5-billion-bonding-package/), Governor Dayton is proposing a $1.5 billion bonding package for state public works projects that will allocate $70 million for local road and bridge projects and $10 for port improvements. In [Montana](http://www.usatoday.com/story/opinion/2017/01/03/montana-legislature-open-session-open-minds/96114218/), Governor Bullock is calling for a $200 million investment of cash and bonds during the 2017 legislature to fund infrastructure needs. The need for infrastructure investment isn’t hidden, as the [sinkhole incident in Michigan](http://www.wsj.com/articles/giant-sinkhole-forces-22-families-out-of-homes-near-detroit-1483037173), which forced 22 families out of their homes, reminds us. There was also a [train derailment in Brooklyn](http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/LIRR-Train-Derails-in-Brooklyn-409638225.html) that injured 103 people. While the exact cause of this derailment is unknown, it reminds us of what can be at stake when our infrastructure fails us. Nonetheless, with actions being taken to improve infrastructure in several states and the possibility of additional investment at the federal level under a new administration, things are looking up in 2017. Both are worthy New Year’s resolutions to strengthen our economy. 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their legislative sessions. With it comes the pomp and circumstance of swearing in ceremonies, gubernatorial inaugurations, committee assignments and, most importantly, settling in to do great work for the people of their state. As we’ve previously looked at [states gearing up](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/state-gear-up-to-tackle-road-funding-in-2017/) to make major infrastructure decisions in 2017, we have already seen either discussion or movement in many legislatures. Whether it’s a gubernatorial proposal or potential bill, here’s a taste of what we’re seeing coast to coast: - Indiana’s legislature will again explore the idea of [increasing its gas tax](http://www.indystar.com/story/news/politics/2017/01/04/why-house-gop-wants-increase-your-gas-tax/96126250/) this session. Just last week the House Republicans led by Speaker Brian Bosma introduced a long-term funding plan that includes a 10-cent per gallon gas tax increase. - New Mexico’s legislature [will take up a bill](http://krqe.com/2017/01/05/bill-would-let-new-mexico-voters-decide-on-gas-tax-for-roadwork/) that will give cities and counties the ability to consider gas tax increases to pay for road improvements at the local level. A bill giving cities and counties the option of putting up to a 5 cent per gallon tax increase on their local ballots has been introduced. - In Michigan, Governor Rick Snyder (R) visited Flint to [sign a bill into law](http://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/flint-water-crisis/2017/01/06/flint-gov-rick-snyder-contaminated-water-public-notice/96236398/) that would requires quicker notification about elevated lead levels in the water. - Minnesota’s Governor Mark Dayton (D) has proposed a bonding bill that includes [$1.5 billion in public construction projects](http://www.startribune.com/dayton-to-announce-proposal-for-public-construction-projects/409587035/). Many of these projects include infrastructure items like wastewater infrastructure repairs and road and bridge renovations. The Governor’s proposal includes many projects that were approved by the legislature - Tennessee’s legislature will consider a proposal championed by Governor Bill Haslam (R) and the state’s Transportation Commissioner. The [funding proposal](http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/politics/state/story/2017/jan/03/tennessee-lawmaker-gov-haslam-state-transportation-chief-mull-9-cent-gas-tax-increase/405696/) includes a 9-cent per gallon gas tax increase and a 12-cent increase on diesel. The action currently underway in these states trends with much of what we’re hearing from groups like the [National Conference of State Legislatures](http://www.ncsl.org/bookstore/state-legislatures-magazine/the-big-issues-of-2017.aspx) and [Council of State Governments](http://knowledgecenter.csg.org/kc/content/top-5-issues-2017-transportation-infrastructure-policy-states-seek-their-own-paths-funding). These group pull together both issues- and states-to-watch lists at the beginning of each session and infrastructure frequently sits near the top the list both nationally and individually. To see the type of bills ASCE is following in your state visit our [legislative tracking website](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/states) and click on your state. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Issues%20Kick%20Off%202017%20State%20Legislative%20Sessions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** infrastructure investment, legislation, states --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Potholes Spur State Discourse](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-potholes-spur-state-discourse/) **Published:** January 13, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Potholes%20Spur%20State%20Discourse&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Winter, also known as pothole season, is here and roads remain beleaguered. Fortunately, many states throughout the nation and both ends of the political spectrum are considering gas taxes increases as viable options to fund infrastructure. According to a [recent report](http://tripnet.org/docs/Urban_Roads_TRIP_Report_November_2016.pdf) by TRIP, the average American driver spends $523 in extra vehicle operation and maintenance annually, as [bumpy and unpaved roads wear on vehicles](http://www.businessinsider.com/road-maintenance-us-costs-trump-2017-1). With nearly one-third of the nation’s major city roads in substandard or poor condition, several states across the country are realizing cost of underinvestment and discussing funding plans. [Oklahoma](http://swoknews.com/local/gas-tax-hike-eyed-amid-oklahoma-budget-crunch?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [Alabama](http://www.decaturdaily.com/news/local/state-of-the-state-proposed-gas-tax-among-difficult-issues/article_a6342b4a-3357-5d44-9d2e-b8823327b1bb.html?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [California](http://www.latimes.com/politics/essential/la-pol-ca-essential-politics-updates-gov-jerry-brown-offers-a-bigger-plan-1484090897-htmlstory.html?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [Indiana](http://www.thestarpress.com/story/opinion/contributors/2017/01/10/indiana-road-higher-taxes/96414420/?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW+Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [Louisiana](http://www.wwl.com/Tolls-taxes-or-both-Louisiana-needs-road-funding/22982689?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [Montana](http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/news/mtleg/group-pushing-montana-lawmakers-to-raise-gas-tax/article_dfe0ce11-4cb4-5dd7-affc-b5b5421e5cee.html?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [South Carolina](http://www.postandcourier.com/opinion/editorials/years-later-hike-the-gas-tax/article_0ba285e8-d6b6-11e6-b7a7-eb4a3f3bc2b6.html?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW+Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&elqTrackId=1929BCE43DF13795B599A692CB394011&elq=1cd734f0e88f4375a7194f4f067b083c&elqaid=15770&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=7330), [Tennessee](http://www.knoxnews.com/story/news/local/tennessee/2017/01/09/unsettled-gas-tax-proposal-revs-up-second-debate/96288316/?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW+Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), [Wisconsin](http://www.wisn.com/article/wisconsinites-split-on-whether-to-raise-gas-tax-for-transportation-fund/8575549?utm_campaign=GR-2017-01-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and [more](http://www.npr.org/2017/01/12/509344237/gas-taxes-may-go-up-around-the-country-as-states-seek-to-plug-budget-holes) are discussing gas tax increases and other options to fund their fragmented transportation network. The diversity of state parties considering gas tax increases speaks to the bipartisan nature of infrastructure funding. As [Carl Davis from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy](http://www.npr.org/2017/01/12/509344237/gas-taxes-may-go-up-around-the-country-as-states-seek-to-plug-budget-holes) said, “there’s really no such thing as a Republican pothole or a Democratic bridge. It’s an issue that brings the parties together.” Hopefully state gas tax activity will motivate the federal government to work together and consider the best method for funding infrastructure at the federal level. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Potholes%20Spur%20State%20Discourse&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [Democrats’ Infrastructure Blueprint Furthers Legislative Conversation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/democrats-infrastructure-blueprint-furthers-legislative-conversation/) **Published:** January 26, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The plan, led by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and dubbed “[A Blueprint to Rebuild America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/A-Blueprint-to-Rebuild-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf),” proposes many investments that ASCE has advocated for over the last two decades, including in the 2013 Infrastructure Report Card. The obvious one is increased investment. At $1 trillion—a figure originally proposed by President Trump during his campaign—this or a similar plan would go a long way in closing the [$1.6 trillion infrastructure investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a/#p/grade-sheet/americas-infrastructure-investment-needs). The “Blueprint” also emphasizes addressing backlogged needs, which have been growing for far too long and are at the root of our nation’s “D+” infrastructure. The “Blueprint” offers a good start to furthering our lawmakers’ dialogue on what a large infrastructure bill should include, and how our nation can wisely invest $1 trillion, ensuring ROI and addressing our significant infrastructure needs. In particular, the “Blueprint’s” approach of dividing investment across the 16 categories of infrastructure is important to improving the entirety of the interdependent infrastructure system. But to make the most of this substantial of an investment with an eye on the future, it will be even more important to select the right projects. ASCE has outlined its vision for what a large infrastructure investment bill should include in our “[Principles for Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ASCE-Infrastructure-Investment-Principles-.pdf).” We will rely on these “Principles” to engage Congress as it reacts to the “Blueprint” and considers a path forward on this critical economic and social issue, balancing needed investment with judicious planning to effectively address our infrastructure needs. Here are some of the highlights of how the Senate Democrats’ “Blueprint” breaks down from ASCE’s perspective\*: - - $210 billion for roads and bridges – *ASCE recently identified surface transportation as the infrastructure area with the* [*largest unfunded need*](http://www.asce.org/failuretoact/)*.* - - $10 billion to expand TIGER – *Increasing funding into proven programs is an excellent way to ensure that the investment is used effectively.* - - $110 billion for water and sewer – *The “Blueprint” notes that underinvestment has happened in our drinking and wastewater infrastructure in part because of a hesitancy to increase water rates. An infusion of additional funding will help bring these systems back up to where they need to be for Americans’ safety and quality of life.* - - $180 billion for rail and bus – *Divided into $130 billion for public transit and $50 billion for rail, which will include acceleration of implementing Positive Train Control.* - - $200 billion for transformative projects – *Vital Infrastructure Projects (VIPs) as the “Blueprint” calls them would help to elevate not just the quality of our infrastructure, but also put us on a strong path for the future.* - - $75 billion for schools – *Most of our school buildings were built to originally teach baby boomers and modernization is desperately needed so that schools can prepare students for the 21st* - - $65 billion for ports, inland waterways, and airports – *Broken down to $30 billion for airports, including through the effective Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and to implement NextGen, $10 billion for dredging, lock maintenance and other needs for ports and inland waterways, and $25 billion to build more resilient communities, which ASCE has highlighted the importance of as one of its eight key criteria when assessing infrastructure*. - - $100 billion for energy – *Including upgrades in transmission and distribution, along with increased resilience.* - - $20 billion for public lands – *Directed in part to increased funding for the National Park Service, which infamously has had challenges maintaining its infrastructure, including the iconic Arlington Memorial Bridge.* - - $10 billion in seed money for an “IBank” – *Expected to be $100 billion for infrastructure once fully leveraged, this would be a way to test the Infrastructure Bank concept on the national level. The Blueprint also notes the need to protect WIFIA and TIFIA, two programs that like TIGER have proven value and should be used to ensure strategic investment.* Missing from the proposal is funding of water resources projects authorized in [WRDA14](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2014-water-resources-reform-development-act/) and [WIIN16](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/a-big-wiin-for-water-resources/). These programs would improve dams, levees, and other water resource infrastructure that are in need of improvement and would benefit from an infusion of investment. One other major sticking point when it comes to federal infrastructure investment: How to pay for it. Democrats maintain the proposal’s $1 trillion investment would be covered by closing tax loopholes. Under its “Principles,” ASCE supports infrastructure investment from all levels of government and the private sector. Ultimately, our nation needs a long-term, sustainable funding solution for all areas of infrastructure. A down payment to modernize our infrastructure that is funded, not just financed, will put us on the right track. \**Italicized text notes ASCE’s comments on specific parts of the proposal based on* [ASCE Public Policy Statements](http://www.asce.org/public_policy_statements/)*.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20T%26I%20Committee%20Examines%20How%20to%20Build%20a%2021st%20Century%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FTI-logo.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20T%26I%20Committee%20Examines%20How%20to%20Build%20a%2021st%20Century%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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blueprint](https://www.dpcc.senate.gov/files/documents/ABlueprinttoRebuildAmericasInfrastructure1.24.17.pdf) previewed by Senate Democrats last week. The panel of witnesses represented private industry (FedEx, Cargill, BMW and Vermeer) that relies on the country’s vast infrastructure networks, with the exception of Richard Trumka, President of AFL-CIO, whose union members build, maintain and operate much of the nation’s infrastructure. Getting the hearing off to a[ fiery start](https://youtu.be/SMssxPYN-SM?t=18m59s) was Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-4th OR), who picked up right where he left off last Congress—emphasizing the need to fix the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) (a bit of background…in December of last year Rep. DeFazio gave an impassioned speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives during votes on the Water Resources Development Act, criticizing the final bill for not including language to spend down funds collected by the HMTF). Rep. DeFazio laid out three key areas he wants the Committee to focus on this year: indexing the gas tax to inflation, spending the existing $9 billion in the HMTF that has been used to offset a portion of the deficit and raising the cap on passenger facility charges for airports. Members of the Committee and witnesses agreed that these were important issues. David MacLennan, Chairman and CEO of Cargill, reminded legislators not to get carried away by dazzling new innovations like electric cars, microgrids and high-speed rail saying “As exciting as new technologies are, we should also think about our traditional assets. So the remainder of my testimony will focus not on the shiny objects, but on the ones that tend to get rusty: the rails, roads, bridges and waterways of rural America.” The panelists also all spoke about the importance of the federal government providing real funding to infrastructure projects, not just financing. Frederick W. Smith, Chairman and CEO of FedEx even went so far to say that he had been testifying in the T&I Committee room for 40 years and was ready to see real infrastructure investment. The Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee is expected to hold its own hearing examining infrastructure challenges and opportunities soon. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Voices%20Rally%20for%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FSAI-promo-image.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Voices%20Rally%20for%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Voices%20Rally%20for%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")With a new administration off to a fresh start, many organizations, elected officials and other stakeholders are seizing the chance to offer their perspectives on an infrastructure bill. Mayors from major cities across the nation recently [suggested in an op-ed](http://thehill.com/blogs/pundits-blog/the-administration/316061-a-decade-for-infrastructure-how-1-trillion-can-rebuild) that the federal government prioritize distribution for infrastructure funding, modernize and expedite how projects are built, and incorporate life cycle cost into project management. [Manufacturers recently testified](https://www.environmentalleader.com/2017/02/manufacturers-tell-congress-invest-infrastructure/) before Congress to request that lawmakers authorize funding to restore infrastructure as it would reduce cost to consumers and improve the efficiencies of organizations and their supply chains. “If ports are clogged, trucks are delayed, power is down, or the internet has a lapse, productivity and customer service are impacted. Across the manufacturing sector, transportation logistics matter, and congestion—whether at a port or on a crowded highway—is waste that drives the consumer’s cost up like a hidden tax,” testified Mary Andringa, chair of the board for Vermeer Corp. The Association of American Railroads is also speaking out for sustainable infrastructure investments, advocating for solutions that provide long-term funding for the Highway Trust Fund. The federal government should “seek solutions that provide steady funding, avoid deferred maintenance and incorporate multiple transportation modes,” said Edward Hamberger, president and CEO of the Association of American Railroads in a [recent op-ed](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/317195-dear-congress-reform-regulatory-process-spur-sustainable). Scott Pattison, executive director of the bipartisan National Governor’s Association, [recently said](http://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-trump-infrastructure-idUSKBN1572UX) that his group, at the request of the White House, has assembled a list of 300 high-priority projects costing billions of dollars from 43 states and territories. [World Resources Institute](http://www.publicnow.com/view/C22E18F612E6C6E3E6F15150F1F8275EA6735C7D) also responded to the [Senate’s infrastructure plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-news/democrats-infrastructure-blueprint-furthers-legislative-conversation/), expressing desire for a federal plan to roll forward. The level of dialogue surrounding infrastructure among legislators, builders, designers and other infrastructure experts is even sparking [proposals for a national infrastructure summit](http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/economy-budget/316269-nows-the-time-for-an-infrastructure-summit). With so many interested stakeholders, a big infrastructure bill could move forward with potential for great success. 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by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Voices%20Rally%20for%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** highway trust fund, infrastructure investment --- ### [Tennessee Senate Committee Receives Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tennessee-senate-committee-receives-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** February 7, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Tennessee%20Senate%20Committee%20Receives%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")As Tennessee’s legislature and governor explore funding options for the state’s transportation infrastructure, the Tennessee Section of ASCE was invited to present the[ 2016 Report Card for Tennessee’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tennessee/tennessee-overview/) to the [state’s Senate Transportation and Safety Committee](http://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/videowrapper/default.aspx?CommID=695000). WBIR.com even named it as one of “[5 things to watch this week in the legislature](http://www.wbir.com/news/local/5-things-to-watch-this-week-in-the-legislature/399620666).” On Monday, Feb. 6, Monica Sartain, PE and Lukas Slayer presented the Tennessee Report Card, which graded roads a C+, bridges a B, and transit a D+, but warns that without sustainable funding congestion will continue to rise and roads and bridges will deteriorate. Current funding is not keeping up with the needs, as an estimated $475 million is needed annually to maintain the current state of good repair on state-maintained roadways, and this number grows with inflation every year. Tennessee is unique in that it’s one of only five states that is “pay-as-you-go” for transportation projects, meaning that the state takes on no debt for construction or maintenance. While this is a fiscally sound approach, it has made maintaining and improving the system challenging. In January, Gov. Haslam proposed the [IMPROVE Act,](https://www.tn.gov/governor/news/48075#sthash.EbfVfldw.dpuf) “Improving Manufacturing, Public Roads and Opportunities for a Vibrant Economy,” which would raise the state’s gas tax by 7 cents a gallon and diesel by 12 cents a gallon, ultimately raising $278 million in new dollars and funding 962 projects across the state. The [Tennessee’s Report Card’s top recommendation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Tennessee-RC-Brochure-Final-Nobleed.pdf) to improve the state’s infrastructure was to “Find sustainable solutions that will help us build a transportation network for the future.” The IMPROVE Act or another bill that would raise the state gas tax—last increased in 1989—is the most direct and immediate way to increase revenue to invest in transportation. ASCE will continue to encourage action this legislative session on the IMPROVE Act or another long-term sustainable funding solution. [Join in by emailing your Tennessee state legislators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=290754). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Tennessee%20Senate%20Committee%20Receives%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Tennessee, Transit **Tags:** bridges, gas tax, roads, surface transportation, Tennessee, transit --- ### [Senate EPW Committee Examines How to Modernize America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-epw-committee-examines-how-to-modernize-americas-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 9, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20EPW%20Committee%20Examines%20How%20to%20Modernize%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday the Senate’s Environment and Public Works committee held its first oversight hearing of the 115th Congress (video available [here](https://www.c-span.org/video/?423687-1/state-officials-testify-rural-infrastructure)) and new Chairman John Barrasso (R-WY) started things off by making it clear where he stands on the proposal offered by President Trump’s campaign to use private investment to improve our nation’s infrastructure: > “Funding solutions that involve public-private partnerships, as have been discussed by administration officials, may be innovative solutions for crumbling inner cities, but do not work for rural areas….Public-private partnerships and other approaches to infrastructure investment that depend on a positive revenue stream from a project are not a surface transportation infrastructure solution for rural states.” A panel of five state and local government officials representing Colorado, Delaware, Oklahoma, West Virginia and Wyoming appeared before the Committee and spoke about what their communities need from the federal government to modernize their infrastructure (written testimony available [here](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=82518667-E24B-4CB5-BAFC-35B3FAE0D372)). Cindy Bobbitt, Commissioner of Grant County, Oklahoma, emphasized that while public-private partnerships might not be a good fit for rural counties like hers, municipal bonds are. Ms. Bobbitt asked Congress to protect tax-exempt municipal bonds. (A bit of background: Republican leadership has declared tax reform a top priority in this Congress and is planning a broad overhaul of the tax code. State and local governments, which rely on municipal bonds to finance infrastructure and community projects, fear that the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds could be changed. Stakeholders, including ASCE, have joined together to [ask ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/PFN-TEB-2017.pdf)Congress to protect tax-exempt municipal bonds.) William Panos, Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation, drew the Committee’s attention to the fact that the increased spending levels authorized by the FAST Act (enacted December 2015) have yet to take effect. Because Congress has not passed a FY17 spending bill (despite the federal fiscal year 2017 beginning October 1, 2016) and instead kept the government open via two Continuing Resolutions (CRs), funding for surface transportation is still at FY16’s (i.e. pre-FAST Act) authorized levels. Mr. Panos said the use of repeated CRs “restricts our ability to plan for future projects and in our state we’re working with our state legislature now and we needed to ask for twice the amount of borrowing authority we would have otherwise” to be able to cover cashflow needs in the face of federal funding uncertainty. Ranking Member Tom Carper (D-DE) also took the opportunity to highlight the fact that Wyoming raised its gas tax by 10 cents in 2013, while the federal gas tax has not been raised since 1993 and the Highway Trust Fund will run out of money in 2020 without Congressional action. Next week has more transportation-related hearings in store. The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee’s Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security will hold a [hearing](http://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=059064F8-8D58-4725-98BC-61CC53DBCB08) on stakeholder perspectives on a multimodal transportation. The House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection will hold a [hearing](https://energycommerce.house.gov/hearings-and-votes/hearings/self-driving-cars-road-deployment) on the road to deployment of driverless cars. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Repairs%3A%20It%20Takes%20a%20Country&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F02%2FDepartment-of-Transportation.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Repairs%3A%20It%20Takes%20a%20Country "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Repairs%3A%20It%20Takes%20a%20Country&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")When it comes to our nation’s infrastructure needs, nobody is unaffected. While lawmakers may authorize funding, the conditions of local roads, bridges and transit impact all Americans. To make the best decisions with limited funding dollars many state DOTs and other infrastructure owners are seeking community input for improving infrastructure. In Arizona, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) is [seeking ideas for highway alerts](http://www.kvoa.com/story/34436624/adot-wants-ideas-for-highway-messages) that will encourage safe driving through a contest where people can submit safety messages. While this contest does not directly relate to infrastructure funding per say, it acknowledges the DOT’s willingness to listen to and include community input in making roads safer. Arizona isn’t the only state actively seeking community input on infrastructure. In Washington, D.C., DDOT allows residents to [request pothole repair services](https://ddot.dc.gov/potholes) by calling the mayor’s call center or submitting a request online and indicating the location and description of the pothole. In New York City, NYDOT is developing a [citywide transit plan](https://transitplannyc.org/) to assess the transportation needs of New Yorkers and is [soliciting public opinions](http://ny.curbed.com/2017/2/2/14491292/nyc-public-transportation-improvement-suggestions-survey) through a series of public input sessions and an online survey. “With input from the community, the plan will identify citywide needs, values and a shared vision, and then define priorities for enhancing transit service for our neighborhoods and connecting all residents to safe, convenient and reliable public transportation,” said NYDOT on its website. [Virginia](http://www.virginiadot.org/projects/publicinvolvement.asp) is another state that involves the community in infrastructure decisions through public hearings, meetings and events for citizens to learn about and give their opinions on transportation projects and issues. It is encouraging that state DOTs are realizing the value of community input in their infrastructure planning decisions. Find out how you can get involved and remember you can always contact your federal and state legislators for issues that can’t be resolved at the local level. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Repairs%3A%20It%20Takes%20a%20Country&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** USDOT --- ### [States Funding Transportation Infrastructure: Who’s Doing It?](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-funding-transportation-infrastructure-whos-doing-it/) **Published:** February 13, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Funding%20Transportation%20Infrastructure%3A%20Who%E2%80%99s%20Doing%20It%3F&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")When it comes to infrastructure funding, peer pressure isn’t a bad thing. Over the last several years 19 states have taken it upon themselves to generate new revenue to fund their surface transportation infrastructure. While 2016 session did not rise to match the flurry of activity seen in 2015, and years prior, many states did take that time to consider and debate the proposals that have been queued up this year. This year will see California, Colorado and Washington dive a bit deeper into their vehicle-miles travel pilot programs as an alternative to a gas tax only revenue stream. We are also following transportation funding legislation in a number of states: - - Arizona’s legislature is [considering a bill](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=284053) that will raise the current 18-cent per gallon gas tax by 10-cents. If enacted, it will be the first-time Arizona has increased its gas tax in 26 years. It is estimated that the purchasing power of the current gas tax has diminished by about 50% since the last increase. - - [Indiana](http://wishtv.com/2017/02/08/house-committee-to-consider-road-funding-bill-that-could-hike-indiana-gas-tax/) has debated the possibility of a gas tax increase over the last few years. This year the legislature is debating a 10-cent per gallon gas tax coupled with an increase in vehicle registration fees, an electric vehicle fee as well as a requirement that the state study toll roads. This proposal has the potential to generate the projected $1.2 billion per year needed to maintain state and local roads. - - [New Mexico](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?6&engagementId=284093) is debating a bill that will expand the current local gasoline tax to all municipalities and counties across the state. Creating an opportunity for local governments to enact a special fuel tax of no more than one-cent per gallon with a five-cent per gallon maximum has the potential to raise an estimated $40 million for county and municipal roads. - - The [Oregon](https://olis.leg.state.or.us/liz/2017R1/Downloads/CommitteeMeetingDocument/95303) Legislature has released a joint plan whose goals include protecting existing infrastructure, preparing the transportation system for a seismic event, improving public safety by replacing or repair gaining structures, and improving public transportation. The state looks to accomplish their task list by generating revenue through a number of possible stream from the user fees like the gas tax, tolls and vehicle registration to optimizing general revenue streams like the lottery, property taxes and diversions from the general fund. - - [South Carolina](http://www.newsobserver.com/news/business/article131721774.html), like Arizona and Indiana, is also considering a 10-cent per gallon gas tax increase. South Carolina is currently ranks among the lowest gas tax in the nation. If passed, this increase is expected to cost drivers an additional $60 per year in fuel costs. While South Carolina’s drivers may see a slight uptick in the price at the pump, improving road conditions and capacity has the potential to put a dent in the $1,168 – $1,248 per year in additional vehicle operating costs. - - Tennessee’s [IMPROVE Act](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=290754) has the potential to raise the gas tax by 7 cents per gallon and index the rate to the Consumer Price Index. This bill will also increase vehicle registration fees and allow for a local option tax to fund local projects. This approach has the potential to help Tennessee begin to close a potential funding shortfall. Stay tuned as these critical bills wind their way through the legislature. Closing the funding gap now can help save families $3,400 per year, or $9 per day, in costs related to poor infrastructure conditions. If your state made the list of those we’re watching, we encourage you to [take action now](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/) by contacting your State Legislators and urging them to invest in your roads and bridges today! 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multimodal freight network. In her opening remarks, Subcommittee Chairman Deb Fischer (R-NB) applauded the previous Congress for passage of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. Unfortunately, acknowledged the Senator, the chronic insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund was not addressed in a meaningful and long-term way by the FAST Act. To mitigate future shortfalls, which are forecasted to resume in 2020 (the same year the FAST Act expires), Senator Fischer touted her “Build USA Infrastructure Act” during Wednesday’s hearing. Fischer’s [legislation](http://www.fischer.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news?ID=E0F84D55-BEA6-41EB-B435-2B2161CD2E31) would divert a percentage of Customs and Border Patrol fees, which are collected on freight and passengers at ports of entry, to the Highway Trust Fund, as well as offer states additional flexibility as they initiate critical transportation infrastructure projects. Four witnesses provided their perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for the multimodal freight system. Matt Rose, Executive Chairman at BNSF, spoke at length about how shifts in energy consumption are affecting his industry. Mr. Rose encouraged Congress to be cognizant of freight rail public benefits, including improvements to the environment, reduced highway congestion and associated maintenance costs, and supply chain efficiencies. He finished by imploring Congress to increase investment in U.S. infrastructure at large, preferably through a strengthened “user pays” program. Christopher Lofgren, President and Chief Executive Officer at Schneider National, provided insights into the trucking and transportation logistics industry by overviewing Schneider National’s best practices. Current freight bottlenecks create challenges for his company, testified Mr. Lofgren, and with U.S. freight volumes anticipated to grow by 45 percent by the year 2040, those challenges will only increase. It’s imperative that Congress increase investment in the country’s surface transportation infrastructure, which will ultimately improve the health of the overall economy. Tom Guard, Vice President of Integrated Supply Chain at the Dow Chemical Company, testified about the unique needs of the chemical industry when getting goods to market. Mr. Guard overviewed his industry’s reliance on multiple modes of transport, including rail, road, and marine, and emphasized the culture of safety used by his company when transporting hazardous materials. Wick Moorman, President and CEO of Amtrak, outlined the clear federal role in maintaining and improving the passenger network. He emphasized to lawmakers that while public-private partnerships can be utilized in some scenarios, those structures cannot replace federal funding. The federal government must provide adequate levels of investment, as well as in leadership in streamlining and environmental review, and removing red tape. Should the White House choose to release an infrastructure investment plan, perhaps in conjunction with the FY 2018 budget request, members of the Commerce Committee and others in the Capitol will explore how the President proposes to spend additional revenue. Congress, including both parties and several Committees of jurisdiction in both the House and Senate, will be instrumental in determining how to make Trump’s campaign promise into a reality. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Subcommittee%20Explores%20Multimodal%20Transportation%20System%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Rail, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** FAST Act, freight, highway trust fund, multimodal, rail, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: No Rest for Weary Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-no-rest-for-weary-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 17, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20No%20Rest%20for%20Weary%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FOrovilleDam.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20No%20Rest%20for%20Weary%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20No%20Rest%20for%20Weary%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Romantic dates, the Grammy awards and celebrating black history are not the only milestones of this week; the Oroville dam crisis in California and the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA)’s 2017 national bridge report are drawing equal media attention. The recent Oroville dam crisis in California, captured by sources like [National Geographic](http://news.nationalgeographic.com/2017/02/oroville-dam-crisis-infrastructure-safety/), [Los Angeles Times](http://www.latimes.com/opinion/op-ed/la-oe-leslie-oroville-dam-crisis-will-be-repeated-20170215-story.html), [The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/we-trust-dams-and-levees-at-our-peril/2017/02/15/a7855844-f3a0-11e6-b9c9-e83fce42fb61_story.html?utm_term=.03ef2716aac1) and [TIME Magazine](http://time.com/4671105/oroville-dam-crisis-infrastructure/), thrust a spotlight on our nation’s dams. According to [FEMA’s National Dam Safety Program](https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1486735320675-8b0597aca8b23c7e2df293310e248bee/NDSPFlashFactSheet2015.pdf) Fact Sheet, Oroville is one of more than 90,000 dams across the country that are underfunded and likewise vulnerable to overflow. According to the [Association of State Dam Safety Officials](http://www.damsafety.org/community/states/?p=500d3792-cd4c-4888-925a-06c4117ad646) (ASDSO), the average dam is more than 50 years old and more than 4,000 of them have been deemed deficient, or needing repairs. Thus, [many other states](http://usatoday.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/showarticle.aspx?article=f40e70ff-f50a-434c-9d05-fc7b9fb8550c) are starting to pay closer attention to the state of their dams. In addition to dams, ARTBA’s new [2017 bridge report](http://www.artba.org/deficient-bridge-report-home/) highlights our nation’s bridge needs. The report reveals that there are 185 million daily crossings on [nearly 56,000 structurally deficient](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/more-than-55000-us-bridges-are-in-need-of-repair-or-replacement/2017/02/14/813a8e40-efa7-11e6-b4ff-ac2cf509efe5_story.html?utm_term=.94d9c570ae45&wpisrc=nl_sb_smartbrief) U.S. bridges, including 13,000 that need replacement, widening or major reconstruction. “America’s highway network is woefully underperforming. It is outdated, overused, underfunded and in desperate need of modernization,” [said Alison Premo Black](http://www.truckinginfo.com/news/story/2017/02/bridge-report-finds-56-000-bridges-are-still-in-need-of-attention.aspx), chief economist of ARTBA. “State and local transportation departments haven’t been provided the resources to keep pace with the nation’s bridge needs.” With so much recent overt attention to dam and bridge infrastructure, the timing of our upcoming 2017 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure couldn’t be better. Stay tuned for more information about our nation’s infrastructure need by sector, which will be disclosed when the Report Card is released on March 9. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20No%20Rest%20for%20Weary%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, dams --- ### [What VMT On The Rise Means for Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/what-vmt-on-the-rise-means-for-roads/) **Published:** February 28, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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travelled (VMT) in 2016, driving over 3.2 trillion miles, an increase of 70 billion miles from 2015. VMT has long been on the rise, save for a dip during the recession. With so many vehicles on the road, it is no surprise that congestion has also been on the rise. The [Texas A&M Transportation Institute](http://d2dtl5nnlpfr0r.cloudfront.net/tti.tamu.edu/documents/mobility-scorecard-2015.pdf) estimated in 2014 that Americans spent 6.9 billion hours stuck in traffic due to congestion for an average of 42 hours per commuter. All of that sitting in traffic wasted 3.1 billion gallons of fuel. The lost time and wasted fuel add up—the total cost of congestion in 2014 was $160 billion. This is a substantial increase from 30 years prior when Americans lost 2.1 billion hours to congestion with an average of 20 hours per commuter and the total cost of congestion was only $48 billion (in 2014 dollars). Investment is badly needed to repair America’s roadways and improve their performance (our highways and bridges have a [$836 billion backlog](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/dot1017)), but adding building more road will not solve congestion on its own. With the U.S. population expected to grow by over 70 million by 2050, policymakers need to think plan ahead and think broadly to prevent congestion from paralyzing our roads. They should begin tackling congestion today through policies and technologies that maximize the capacity of the existing road network and by creating an integrated, multimodal transportation system that focuses on mobility for people and goods. 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in his presidency. Infrastructure was among the many issues he discussed. The President highlighted the interstate highway system as a the “last truly great national infrastructure program,” before calling for a “new program of national rebuilding” and vowing to ask Congress to pass legislation for $1 trillion in infrastructure investment, “financed through both public and private capital.” Infrastructure investment was one of the President’s core campaign promises. While there still needs to be much more shared about the infrastructure legislation described, including what the mix of public and private capital will be and how this investment will be allocated across our nation’s significant infrastructure needs, this is an encouraging step toward fulfilling what the President pledged during the campaign. The speech came just 10 days before ASCE will release its new *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*. The report will again provide grades and analysis of 16 categories of infrastructure and offer key solutions and category solutions to raise the grades. One of the core solutions you can expect to read and hear about is the need for investment, and even more specifically government funding. To have lasting progress for our infrastructure, the federal government must commit to not only financing infrastructure programs but funding them. Funding must supplement – rather than replace – long-term solutions, regular appropriations, and scheduled reauthorizations. This tenet is one ASCE also focuses on in its [Principles for Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ASCE-Infrastructure-Investment-Principles-.pdf), released during the Presidential Transition. Americans recognize our infrastructure needs are significant—a new investment gap number will also be released on March 9 in the Report Card. They are also solvable, beginning with federal infrastructure legislation that: - - Includes investment that provides substantial, long-term benefits to the public and the economy; - - considers the cost of an infrastructure project over its entire life span; - - ensures projects are built sustainably and resiliently; - - does not replace existing federal, state, local, or private infrastructure funding. [Explore the full Principles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ASCE-Infrastructure-Investment-Principles-.pdf) and mark your calendar for March 9 at 9:30 a.m. ET to[ watch the Report Card grades reveal live via webstream](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/live). 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%E2%80%99s%20Address%20Includes%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, economy, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, infrastructure report card, President --- ### [Congressional Hearings Focus on Aviation, Flood Control](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressional-hearings-focus-on-aviation-flood-control/) **Published:** March 3, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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to dramatically increase infrastructure spending to the tune of $1 trillion, various Congressional Committees have been holding hearings to explore the need. While the hearings reflect broad and even growing support on Capitol Hill for infrastructure spending, they also illustrate major hurdles, chief among them and one that has bedeviled infrastructure advocates for a very long time, how to pay for it. On the House side, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has begun a series of hearings to highlight the need among specific infrastructure categories. Using the title [“Building a 21st Century for America](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/?EventTypeID=541),” the hearings explore the federal role in several infrastructure categories. On March 1st, the Committee’s Aviation Subcommittee looked at the state of the nation’s airports, with a panel of airport executives including Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and the Greater Asheville (NC) Regional Airport Authority. The executives noted different challenges faced by different sized airports and the need for flexibility, both in how they are able to spend grant money received through the Airports Improvement Program (AIP) and the ability to set the appropriate level for the Passenger Facility Charges (PFCs) that airports can charge, which has been capped by Congress at $4.50. During the hearing, full Committee Ranking Democrat Peter DeFazio (D-OR) announced he had joined with Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) in offering legislation to remove the cap on PFCs and permitting airports to set the level as they see fit. The panel also noted that under the new pricing policies instituted by airlines, while the ticket tax that funds the AIP is applied to the basic ticket, additional charges such as baggage fees are not subject to the tax, costing the program millions of dollars. Finally, both members of the Committee and the panelist agreed that the recent pattern of short-term authorizations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and its programs has made it hard to make long-term plans and have increased the cost of the capital projects. ASCE strongly agrees with the airport executives and supports increasing funding for the AIP, removing the cap from the PFCs and longer-term authorization for the FAA. Meanwhile in the Senate, the Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee held a hearing titled “Flood Control Infrastructure: Safety Questions Raised by Current Events.” The hearing was prompted in large part by the recent spillway deteriorations and ensuing evacuations around California’s Oroville Dam, the tallest dam in the nation. Among the witnesses were Lieutenant General Todd T. Semonite, Commanding General and Chief of Engineers U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Larry Larson, Director Emeritus & Senior Policy Advisor for Association of State Floodplain Manager. General Seminote talked about his agency’s role in providing flood protection infrastructure across the country. Sens. John Barrasso (R-WY) and Joni Ernst (R-IA) pressed the General on the Agency’s benefit-cost analysis formula for selecting projects, which relies, in-part, on property value. Sen. Barrassso, the new Chairman of the Committee emphasized this type of formula pitted urban project against more rural projects in his home state of Wyoming. Larry Larson and several Senators also raised the important point that there are flood control programs authorized by Congress in the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 and Water Resources Development Act of 2016 that have not received any federal funding. Larry Larson also told the panel that private funding will not cover the full cost for dam and levee repair. “Our experience shows that financial incentives are very difficult to apply to these projects,” adding that that federal funding would be needed. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20Hearings%20Focus%20on%20Aviation%2C%20Flood%20Control&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Levees, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Airports, aviation, congress, FAA Reauthorization, flood protection, levees, USACE, Water Resources, water resources development act --- ### [Welcome to the New InfrastructureReportCard.org](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/welcome-to-the-new-infrastructurereportcard-org/) **Published:** March 9, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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(ASCE) is relaunching InfrastructureReportCard.org. We invite you to explore all the new site has to offer, including an overview of the 16 infrastructure categories and ASCE’s solutions for how to raise the national grade. The site showcases the 2017 Report Card, including the overall D+ grade, as well as individual category grades that are used to calculate America’s GPA. The site also emphasizes ASCE’s solutions for how to improve the state of American infrastructure. After exploring the grades, take action! The site makes it easy to email or tweet the grades directly to elected officials. In addition to the national grades, you can also explore state-by-state information. Enjoy the new grades and analysis. Share it via the Take Action functions. And visit back often, because additional content is on its way! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Welcome%20to%20the%20New%20InfrastructureReportCard.org&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** #built4thefuture, #fixthetrustfund, aviation, bridges, dams, Drinking Water, energy, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, levees, parks, ports, rail, report card, Report Card for America's Infrastructure, roads, transit, wastewater --- ### [President Trump's Proposed Budget's Impact on Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trumps-proposed-budgets-impact-on-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 16, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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President Trump released his first proposed budget as president. Often referred to as the “skinny” budget because it is released soon after a President assumes office, the budget proposal included many cuts to infrastructure programs that in the past have been successful. The following statement is from Norma Jean Mattei, President, American Society of Civil Engineers regarding the release of President Trump’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2018: “President Trump’s proposed budget would eliminate funding for many of the programs designed to improve our nation’s infrastructure, which last week was graded a ‘D+’ in ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*. This budget unfortunately does little to raise that grade for our aging roads, water systems, dams, and other infrastructure, the deficiencies of which currently cost each American family $3,400 per year in disposable income. “Our nation and economy can no longer afford to wait to restore and rebuild our nation’s infrastructure. The President campaigned on a promise to invest in infrastructure, to the tune of $1 trillion. While the Administration has suggested that the cuts made in the FY18 budget will be restored through an infrastructure-specific package, that is not the way to effectively invest in, modernize, and maintain our aging and underperforming infrastructure. Government programs that have proven successful should continue to be funded through authorizations and appropriations, to ensure consistent funding from year to year.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Budget%E2%80%99s%20Impact%20on%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20Proposed%20Budget%E2%80%99s%20Impact%20on%20Infrastructure "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Energy%20%26%20Commerce%20Committee%20Holds%20Infrastructure%20Hearings&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=http%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2FHookam-testify-400x320.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Energy%20%26%20Commerce%20Committee%20Holds%20Infrastructure%20Hearings "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Energy%20%26%20Commerce%20Committee%20Holds%20Infrastructure%20Hearings&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives’ Energy & Commerce Committee held hearings focused on infrastructure. Among them were two featuring ASCE members’ testimonies—both focusing on the newly released Infrastructure Report Card. These hearings came as Congress continues to consider how best to improve our nation’s infrastructure, in part because of President Trump’s interest in passing a large infrastructure bill. ![Mr. Hookham discussing infrastructure report card at a hearing](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/Hookam-testify-400x320.jpg "Hookam testify")ASCE member Chuck Hookham, P.E., M.ASCE who serves as a Director at CMS Energy in Michigan testified at a hearing titled “[Modernizing Energy Infrastructure: Challenges and Opportunities to Expanding Hydropower Generation](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2017-03-17-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=34922&elqTrackId=FE9B5AA9043920D241F83A0520016986&elq=ff00e0a6fd2a45c8a82ef8e8ae0c062c&elqaid=16211&elqat=1)” on behalf of ASCE. ASCE’s 2017 Report Card for Infrastructure graded the nation’s dams a “D” and energy infrastructure a “D+” in terms of capacity, condition, resilience, and funding. His testimony focused on issues of retrofitting and developing new hydro across the country.Currently only 3% of the nation’s 90,000 dams generate electricity. Among Mr. Hookham’s recommendations were: - Dam safety programs need full funding; our nation’s dams provide power generation, flood control, water supply, irrigation, recreation, navigation, and environmental protection; over 85% will be 50 years old by 2020. Rehabilitation to meet safety, changing demands, and to protect downstream development should not be deferred. - Prudent investment in hydropower reduces dependency on other sources, offers flexible and renewable generation with low air emissions, and supports economic growth and national security. S. DOE’s Energy Hydropower Vision details opportunities for hydropower expansion. - Legislation that purely focuses on improving hydropower licensing/regulation and adds certainty to permit/approval timelines is needed; current permit/licensing challenges inhibit inclusion of hydroelectric projects in integrated resource planning. - A national energy policy that anticipates future energy needs, promotes development of clean/renewable energy supply such as hydropower, increases energy efficiency, and reduces dependency on foreign sources will enable prudent investment. ![Mr. DiLoreto discussing Infrastructure](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/DiLoreto-Testify-365x400.jpg "DiLoreto Testify")On Thursday, past ASCE President and current Committee on America’s Infrastructure, Greg DiLoreto, P.E., M.ASCE testified before the House Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on the Environment at a hearing titled “[Reinvestment and Rehabilitation of Our Nation’s Safe Drinking Water Delivery Systems](http://app.message.asce.org/e/er?utm_campaign=GR-2017-03-17-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua&s=1360&lid=34921&elqTrackId=773100CADE9414883700F29FA74D5A4C&elq=ff00e0a6fd2a45c8a82ef8e8ae0c062c&elqaid=16211&elqat=1).” Mr. DiLoreto, a former CEO of a western water utility introduced the Committee to the findings in the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, focusing particularly on the Drinking Water chapter grade of “D”. Among Mr. DiLoreto’s recommendations were: - Reinvigorate the State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program under the Safe Drinking Water Act through permanent reauthorization and tripling the amount of annual appropriations. - Fully fund the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) at its authorized level. - Preserve tax exempt municipal bond financing. Low‐cost access to capital helps keep lending for wastewater upgrades strong and accessible for communities large and small. - Establish a federal Water Infrastructure Trust Fund to finance the national shortfall in funding of infrastructure systems under the Clean Water Act. These hearings will be used to inform the work of the House Energy & Commerce Committee this year as it tackles infrastructure-related legislation. 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DeFazio Introduces Legislation to Invest $500 Billion in Roads, Bridges & Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rep-defazio-introduces-legislation-to-invest-500-billion-in-roads-bridges-transit/) **Published:** March 22, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F149021621941029.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F03%2F149021621941029.jpg&description=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Rep.%20DeFazio%20Introduces%20Legislation%20to%20Invest%20%24500%20Billion%20in%20Roads%2C%20Bridges%20%26%20Transit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Today Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR-4), the top Democrat on the House’s Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced legislation to raise approximately $500 billion to repair America’s deteriorating roads, bridges, and transit systems. The bill, [H.R. 1664 – Investing in America: A Penny for Progress Act](http://democrats.transportation.house.gov/sites/democrats.transportation.house.gov/files/documents/H.R.%201664%20A%20Penny%20for%20Progress%20Act.pdf), finances the additional investment by authorizing the Treasury Department to issue 30-year bonds annually through 2030. To repay the bonds, the federal motor fuels tax would be indexed beginning in 2017. The federal motor fuels tax of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has caused it to lose 40% of its value. Indexing the motor fuels tax is expected to increase the gas and diesel taxes by about 1 cent per year. H.R. 1664 would increase federal investment in surface transportation 30% annually over current funding levels. ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card graded our nation’s [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) a “D,” [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) a “C+” and, and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) a “D-.” The report card also found that our nation’s current level of investment in surface transportation is less than half of what’s needed. The U.S. needs to invest an additional $1.1 trillion in surface transportation alone over the next ten years from all levels of government. Failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on our nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and, most importantly, public safety. If the surface transportation funding gap is not addressed, the U.S. will lose over $1.2 trillion in GDP and 1.1 million jobs by 2025. H.R. 1664 would be a major step towards meeting the nation’s transportation funding need. ASCE is proud to [endorse](http://democrats.transportation.house.gov/sites/democrats.transportation.house.gov/files/documents/ASCE%20Penny%20for%20Progress%20Endorsement.pdf) this legislation and is already joined by [40 other organization](http://democrats.transportation.house.gov/investing-america-penny-progress-act)s including the American Road & Transportation Builders Association, American Trucking Association, and the National League of Cities. 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the White House Budget Would Affect Infrastructure and Engineering](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/how-the-white-house-budget-would-affect-infrastructure-and-engineering/) **Published:** March 23, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=How%20the%20White%20House%20Budget%20Would%20Affect%20Infrastructure%20and%20Engineering&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The White House released its [budget blueprint for FY 2018](https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/whitehouse.gov/files/omb/budget/fy2018/2018_blueprint.pdf) last week, signaling its priorities to Congress as it ramps up the annual appropriations process. The White House’s budget would increase defense spending by $54 billion and offset that increase with broad cuts elsewhere in discretionary spending. It will be up to [House](http://appropriations.house.gov/about/members/) and [Senate](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/about/members) Appropriations Committees to decide how much of the President’s budget they wish to adapt. Some Congressional Republicans have already started pushing back on President Trump’s budget. Rep. Hal Rogers (KY-5), former chair of the House Appropriations Committee, released a [statement](https://halrogers.house.gov/press-releases?ID=24250FDA-5BF7-4A2D-BD7C-8D4579A5AA1A) saying, “While we have a responsibility to reduce our federal deficit, I am disappointed that many of the reductions and eliminations proposed in the President’s skinny budget are draconian, careless and counterproductive…We will certainly review this budget proposal, but Congress ultimately has the power of the purse.” Sen. Charles Grassley (IA) told the *[Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/powerpost/capitol-hill-republicans-not-on-board-with-trump-budget/2017/03/16/9952d63e-0a6b-11e7-b77c-0047d15a24e0_story.html?utm_term=.b155a7800291)*, “I’ve never seen a president’s budget proposal not revised substantially. As a member of the Budget Committee, I’ll carefully scrutinize and assess priorities as the president has with his proposal.” Below is an outline of the President’s budget as it relates to infrastructure, scientific research, and science education. **Department of Commerce** - The budget requests $7.8 billion for the Department of Commerce, a $1.5 billion or 16% decrease from the 2017 annualized Continuing Resolution (CR) level. - The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), currently funded at $964 million, receives no direct mention. - The Economic Development Administration would be eliminated along with its $221 million budget. - Funding for the Manufacturing Extension Partnership is reduced by $124 million. - The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) would receive a 17% cut to the agency’s $5.6 billion budget **Department of Education** - The budget requests $59 billion in discretionary funding for the Department of Education, a $9 billion or 13% reduction below the 2017 annualized CR level. - An additional $1.4 billion has been proposed for school choice programs, Title I funding has been increased slightly and special education (IDEA) funding is retained at the current level. - Would eliminate entirely the $2.4 billion Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants program, which supports teacher professional development (focusing on STEM areas) as recently authorized by Congress. - Would eliminate entirely the $1.2 billion 21st Century Community Learning Centers afterschool program. - Does not mention the Title IV, Part A Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants program (we assume no funding is provided for this new program, which is heavily focused on STEM activities). **Department of Energy** - The budget requests $28 billion for Department of Energy, a $1.7 billion or 5.6% decrease from the 2017 annualized CR level. - The Office of Science will lose $900 million of its roughly $5 billion budget, which supports research and development at more than 300 universities and 10 of the U.S.’s 17 national labs. - The budget provides $120 million to restart the licensing process for nuclear waste repository activities at Yucca Mountain, with some of those funds allocated for an interim storage program. - The budget eliminates the Weatherization Assistance Program and the State Energy Program to reduce federal intervention at the state level. - Provides $6.5 billion to the Environmental Management Program to facilitate the cleanup of waste and contamination from energy research and nuclear weapons production, including addressing excess facilities to support modernization of the nuclear security enterprise. **Department of Interior** - The budget requests $11.6 billion for Department of Interior, a $1.5 billion or 12% decrease from the 2017 annualized CR level - The U.S. Geological Survey’s budget request is for more than $900 million, which is currently operating on a budget of $1.062 billion. There are no details on which specific programs will be cut. **Department of Transportation** - The budget requests $16.2 billion for Department of Transportation’s discretionary budget, a $2.4 billion or 13% decrease from the 2017 annualized CR level. - Ends the TIGER grant program, which was authorized as a part of the 2009 stimulus bill to support innovative projects that are difficult to fund through traditional federal programs. In FY16, TIGER provided [$485 million to 40 projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tiger-grants-theyre-grrrrrreat/). - Ends federal funding for long-distance Amtrak service. - Eliminates the Essential Air Service Program, a program that subsidizes flights to 175 rural communities that would otherwise not have regular air service. - Restricts funding for New Starts (a program which helps fund transit projects that cost over $300 million) to projects with existing full funding grant agreements only. - Privatizes air traffic control. **Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)** - The budget requests $5.7 billion for the Environmental Protection Agency, a savings of $2.6 billion, or 31%, from the 2017 annualized CR level. - The primary allocations of funds within the EPA goes towards drinking water and infrastructure improvements, including $20 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program and $2.3 billion for the State Revolving Funds, which provide low-interest loans for investments in water and sanitation infrastructure. - Several Obama Administration-era programs including the Clean Power Plan, the Green Climate Fund and other climate change research partnerships will lose all funding. - Superfund programs see funding cuts, including a $330 million reduction for the Hazardous Substance Superfund Account and the agency will instead use existing settlement funds to clean up hazardous waste sites in a more efficient manner. - Reduces the budget of the Office of Research and Development by $233 million and will discontinue its awarding of STAR grants. - Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the Chesapeake Bay, and other geographic programs receive no funding, returning the responsibility for these programs to the states. **Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)** - Eliminates or reduces state and local grant funding by $667 million for programs administered by FEMA that are either unauthorized by the Congress, such as FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program, or that must provide more measurable results and ensure the federal government is not supplanting other stakeholders’ responsibilities, such as the Homeland Security Grant Program. - The budget also proposes establishing a 25% non-federal cost match for FEMA preparedness grant awards that currently require no cost match. **National Science Foundation (NSF)** - The budget does not mention the NSF’s $7.5 billion broad portfolio of research and education. Presumably, the agency is one component of a line item labeled “other agencies” that is scheduled for a 10% cut. **National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)** - NASA is funded at $19.1 billion, only a slight decrease from current funding. - The budget focuses heavily on space-exploration and public/private partnerships. The proposal would eliminate the Office of Education (cutting $115 million) and makes significant cuts to Earth Science programs ($100 million). **Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)** - The budget contains no information at all on the White House’s own budget of which OSTP is a part. OSTP does not yet have a director nor given any indication of how large its staff will be. 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[summit](https://www.brookings.edu/events/tackling-the-water-problem), titled “Tackling the ‘Water Problem’: Challenges facing U.S. regulation, sustainability, and global geopolitics.” Former U.S. Secretary of Interior under President Clinton, Bruce Babbitt, provided a keynote address and two panels were convened to discuss domestic water infrastructure and regulations, as well as global water security, economics, and geopolitical issues. Secretary Babbitt focused on how to improve the complicated groundwater regulation landscape to better measure – and thereby manage – the strategic resource. He acknowledged that while groundwater has long been considered a local right, states are beginning to develop frameworks for better management. For example, in 2016 California passed the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, which asks local agencies to adopt groundwater management plans tailored to needs of individual communities. In the Great Plains, where surface streams are beginning to dry up, Kansas is requiring withdrawal measurements. While these are encouraging signs, progress is slow. California’s new law gives local communities 20 years to develop their management plans. Congress can and should intercede and serve to incentivize states and localities to move more quickly to measure and better allocate groundwater resources, argued the former Secretary. Following Hon. Babbitt’s remarks was a panel of water management experts, moderated by Pat Mulroy, Senior Fellow at Brookings’ Metropolitan Policy Program. Panelists included Jennifer Pitt, Director of the Colorado River Project, Jim Lochhead, CEO and Manager of Denver Water, Bret Birdsong, Professor of Law at UNLV, and Roger Patterson, Assistant General Manager of Strategic Water Initiatives at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California. Mr. Patterson observed that too often in the United States, water managers contend with “19th century laws, 20th century infrastructure, and 21st century problems.” Panelists agreed; climate change has accelerated changing surface and groundwater trends, and local, state and federal regulators are struggling to keep up. The panelists also focused on how to best make use of President Trump’s $1 Trillion infrastructure investment plan, should it come to fruition. Ms. Pitt argued that such a plan can maximize its impact by investing beyond single-purpose projects. Innovative approaches to restoring the Colorado River Basin and managing the resources provided by the California Bay-Delta were also discussed, at length. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Brookings%20Tackles%20%E2%80%9CWater%20Problem%E2%80%9D%20at%20Summit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** climate change, Environment, global warming, groundwater --- ### [White House Sends Congress Budget Request for the Rest of FY17](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/white-house-sends-congress-budget-request-for-the-rest-of-fy17/) **Published:** March 30, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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“[skinny budget](https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/whitehouse.gov/files/omb/budget/fy2018/2018_blueprint.pdf)” it released two weeks ago, last Friday the White House sent the House and Senate appropriations committees its [budget request](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/White-House-budget-FY17-spreadsheet.pdf) for the remaining five months of FY17. As detailed in a previous [post](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/how-the-white-house-budget-would-affect-infrastructure-and-engineering/), the Trump Administration’s FY18 budget request would dramatically increase defense spending and make corresponding cuts to discretionary non-defense spending, including infrastructure programs. The FY17 request follows the same vein and includes eliminating the almost $500 million TIGER grant program for the year (the FY18 budget request also calls for zeroing out TIGER). The TIGER grant program supports innovative projects that are difficult to fund through traditional federal programs. President Trump’s FY17 budget request also jumpstarts another idea his administration proposed in its FY18 budget—cutting funding for New Starts transit grants so that there would be no new funding agreements under the program. The New Starts grant program assists communities seeking to make a major investment in new or expanded transit service. The White House also seeks to cut $100 million from the Army Corps of Engineers water resources program in FY17, $516 million from the Department of Energy’s energy efficiency and renewable energy research and development grants program, and $1.5 billion from the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program (which often helps fund infrastructure), in addition to across the board cuts on a variety of other programs. However, the White House may be too late in the appropriations process to affect spending for this fiscal year. Although the fiscal year began last October, Congress has not passed a FY17 spending bill. The federal government is instead kept open by a Continuing Resolution (CR), which keeps funding at approximately FY16 levels. The current CR was passed last December and expires April 28th. If Congress and the President cannot agree on a new spending bill or CR by then, the government will shut down. Senate THUD subcommittee chairman Susan Collins (R-ME) told *CQ* this week, “We’re certainly looking at \[the White House’s proposed cuts\], but it certainly throws a monkey wrench into negotiations that were essentially completed. And the cuts are very deep in some programs that are extremely important, like the Community Development Block Grant Program and TIGER grants.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=White%20House%20Sends%20Congress%20Budget%20Request%20for%20the%20Rest%20of%20FY17&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=White%20House%20Sends%20Congress%20Budget%20Request%20for%20the%20Rest%20of%20FY17 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share 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email")](mailto:?subject=White%20House%20Sends%20Congress%20Budget%20Request%20for%20the%20Rest%20of%20FY17&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** 115th Congress, appropriations, budget, congress, infrastructure, TIGER, White House --- ### [Transportation Committee Focuses on Brownfields](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transportation-committee-focuses-on-brownfields/) **Published:** March 31, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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“Building a 21st Century Infrastructure for America” this week, [focusing on brownfields this time](http://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=401262). The panel’s Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment’s March 28th hearing was entitled Revitalizing American Communities through the Brownfields Program. In fiscal year 2016, the EPA provided a total of $116.7 million for more than 400 grants to 182 communities. Although the brownfields program is generally well received, some have suggested that changes be considered along with reauthorization of the funding. These include allowing the grants to be for multiple purposes so that they are not just for assessment or cleanup. Multiple purposes could include assessment, cleanup, and demolition The Subcommittee heard from a panel of witnesses that include representatives from a state brownfields agency, two mayors, a city councilman, a county chairman, and a real estate investment expert. In his opening statement, Subcommittee Chair Garret Graves (R-LA) praised the program as being effective and for spurring economic development. He also singled out its ability to leverage federal funding with state, local and private funding, to the tune of $17 to each federal dollar invested. In her opening statement, Ranking Democrat Grace Nepolitano (D-CA) also praised the program and noted to her dismay that President Trump has proposed to zero out funding for the program in his 2018 budget request. Her thoughts were echoed by several committee members, including some Republicans, and by the witnesses. [ASCE supports the Brownfields program](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-485---revitalization-of-brownfields/) and will oppose the President’s proposed elimination of the program. The 2017 Infrastructure Report Card gave Hazardous Waste at D+. Among the ASCE’s solutions to raise the grades is to expand Brownfield grant programs to support investment in pre-development site characterization activities, increasing leverage and stimulating greater investment from state, regional, local, and private funding sources. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Hampshire%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9C&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, the [New Hampshire Section of ASCE released its 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-hampshire/), giving the state’s infrastructure a “C-.” A team of professional engineers from across the state graded twelve infrastructure categories, including aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, hazardous waste, ports, rail, roads, solid waste, stormwater, and wastewater. New Hampshire last released a Report Card in 2011, and graded the state’s infrastructure a “C.” The Report Card for New Hampshire’s Infrastructure found that many of the state’s infrastructure systems are struggling to stay in adequate condition. For example, airport capital investment needs for the next 20 years exceed the available funding by $100 million to $200 million. Nearly 80% of all state-owned bridges were built prior to 1980 and as of December 2015, 12.8% of the bridges in state were considered structurally deficient. Additionally, much of the current energy infrastructure – including distribution systems, source of supply infrastructure, water treatment facilities, and pumping facilities – are in need of upgrades or replacement, with a 10-year investment need of approximately $857 million. “New Hampshire’s infrastructure is living on borrowed time thanks to past generations’ investments,” said Logan Johnson, chair of the Report Card for New Hampshire’s Infrastructure. “We’re not investing in the maintenance and modernization our infrastructure needs to support a thriving economy, and instead we’re paying the price in other ways.” Given these infrastructure challenges, ASCE urges action to raise the grades. For example, New Hampshire citizens need to be informed and vocal about their communities’ infrastructure needs. State lawmakers must pursue consistent policies and funding sources to ensure sustained support for infrastructure and enable long-term planning. The state also needs to pursue more locally-sourced funding for infrastructure, rather than relying so heavily on federal funding and financing to supplement the state’s infrastructure budget. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of D+ last month. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Hampshire%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20State%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9C&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** New Hampshire **Tags:** New Hampshire, state report card --- ### [States Approve Major Transportation Packages](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-approve-major-transportation-packages/) **Published:** April 25, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In the meantime, four more states (California, Indiana, Montana and Tennessee) join the 19 others that have increased or modified their gas taxes to increase revenue since 2013. In each state the gas tax increase was just one piece of a larger transportation infrastructure funding package that enacts additional revenue streams to ensure a steady revenue stream for roads and bridges despite increasing fuel economy. Here’s what these states have done: - [California](http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2017/04/06/california-drivers-could-pay-more-for-gas-to-get-better-roads/) was the first state this legislative session to raise its gas tax. The 12-cent per gallon for gas and 20-cent per gallon for diesel takes effect November 1, 2017. The new rate will be indexed to the Consumer Price Index starting July 1, 2019 and will help ensure a steady revenue stream for state road and bridge maintenance and improvements. To ensure all road users are paying their fair-share a $100 electric vehicle registration fee will be implemented with 2020 model years and beyond. - [Indiana’s legislature](http://fox59.com/2017/04/22/indiana-roads-will-receive-1-2-billion-annual-boost-after-funding-bill-passes/) approved a $1.2 billion annual investment in its transportation infrastructure through a 10-cent per gallon gas tax increase that for the next seven years will be indexed to increase no more than a penny per year. In addition to a gas tax increase, user fees in the form of vehicle registration as well as special fees for hybrid and electric vehicle fess were increased. To ensure roads and bridges receive adequate funding the entirety of gasoline sales taxes will be deposited into the State Highway Fund beginning in 2020. The package also requires the state study tolling as a future revenue source. - [Montana’s legislature](http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/keci/gas-tax-bill-heading-to-gov-bullocks-desk/460024508) has also sent a gas tax increase bill to its Governor’s desk. A compromise for each chamber the bill awaiting Governor Bullock’s signature will raise the gas tax by 4.5 center a gallon and diesel by 1.5 cents. Like Indiana and California, Montana will also see a gradual increase in the tax rate to 6.5 cents per gallon and 2 cents for diesel by 2022. Accounting for increased fuel economy, vehicle registration fees were increased by 3% and new sales tax on cars and recreational vehicles that exceed $150,000 were included in the bill. These increases will take effect on July 1 and are expected to generate $49 million when fully implemented, sorely needed for the states roads and bridges, which received a “C” grade for transportation in the [2014 Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/montana/). - [Tennessee](http://www.wbir.com/news/local/tennessee-lawmakers-expected-to-give-final-ok-to-gas-tax-bill/433683669) like many states who recently increased its gas tax, saw its first increase in nearly 30 years. The 6-cent per gallon increase for gasoline and 10-cents per gallon increase will be gradually phased in beginning July 1, 2017 with an initial 4-cent increase. It is expected to generate approximately $350 million for roads and bridges in its first year. The [2016 Report Card for Tennessee’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/tennessee/), which graded roads a “C+” noted “an estimated $475 million is needed annually to keep up the current state of good repair on state-maintained roadways, and this number grows with inflation every year.” These states took action as uncertainty at the federal level continues. The additional funding guaranteed by the passage of 2015’s FAST Act cannot be appropriated without a new federal budget. Additionally, the administration’s promise of a high-dollar federal infrastructure package has yet to come to fruition. There are still a few other states that may join the ranks this year: **Colorado, Minnesota, and South Carolina**. [Colorado’s legislature ](http://gazette.com/prospects-fading-for-tax-increase-to-fund-colorado-transportation-solution/article/1601465)is trying to reach a compromise on its transportation funding package. While [HB 1242](https://leg.colorado.gov/bills/hb17-1242) cleared the House, the bill is currently awaiting approval by the Senate Finance Committee. Minnesota’s legislature is current currently working through a conference committee to find a way to fund its roads that balance the funding need with the potential for a budget surplus. Governor Mark Dayton recently put forward the possibility of funding roads [without a gas tax increase](https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/minnesota/articles/2017-04-20/dayton-opens-door-to-tax-hike-free-transportation-plan) in an effort to bring both sides together. [South Carolina’s Senate](http://www.postandcourier.com/news/south-carolina-house-members-call-out-senate-gov-henry-mcmaster/article_3caef044-2450-11e7-b9b4-e38b39fec575.html) is nearing the end of debate on a 12-cent per gallon gas tax increase. Their version of [HB 3516](http://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3516&session=122&summary=B) is 2-cents apart from the 10-cent per gallon version passed by the House back in March and will require an additional vote by the lower chamber. ASCE [recommends ](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/)that adequate funding for operating, maintaining, and improving the nation’s transportation system be provided by a comprehensive program with sustainable dedicated revenue sources. We will keep a watchful eye on these states as they move to close their transportation funding gaps and improve their transportation network. 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email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Approve%20Major%20Transportation%20Packages&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** gas tax, states, transportation --- ### [Louisiana Report Card Gives Infrastructure a "D+"](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/louisiana-report-card-gives-infrastructure-a-d/) **Published:** April 26, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Louisiana%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Louisiana Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the [2017 Report Card for Louisiana Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/louisiana/) on April 26. To assign grades, 50 volunteer civil engineers from across the state analyzed 11 categories of infrastructure over 18 months. Scores ranged from a “C+” for Dams and Solid Waste to a “D-” in Drinking Water and Inland Waterways. Bridges and Coastal infrastructure earned “D+s,” Aviation and Levees “Cs,” Ports a “C-,” Roads a “D,” and Wastewater a “C-.” Louisiana’s overall “D+” G.P.A. is indicative of a poorly maintained and inadequately funded system, one which is not designed to meet tomorrow’s demands. The 2017 *Report Card for Louisiana Infrastructure* found that since the state’s last Report Card was issued in 2012, little has been done to shore up existing infrastructure or invest in new assets. Authors of the Report Card warned that the state is at a disadvantage and will continue to lose its economic competitiveness, should lawmakers continue to choose inaction over investment. At the Report Card release at the Louisiana state capitol, former Department of Transportation and Development secretary and executive director of the Report Card project Kam Movassaghi urged legislators to increase available funding for the state’s public infrastructure. In addition to providing a comprehensive analysis of Louisiana’s infrastructure systems, the 2017 report makes recommendations to improve the grades. The authors suggest greater responsibility for maintenance and investment in infrastructure, from all levels of government as well as the private sector. The Report Card also recommends bold and aggressive approaches for infrastructure improvement, and includes a directive to lawmakers to protect infrastructure related “Trust Funds” from being used as a general-purpose financial source. Additionally, the *2017 Report Card for Louisiana’s Infrastructure* recommends prioritizing the public health and safety of citizens by improving infrastructure to lower road fatality rates and improve the safety of drinking water systems and coastal Louisiana. Finally, the 2017 Report Card recommends educating the public to better understand and appreciate the importance of a healthy infrastructure system. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of D+ in March 2017. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Louisiana%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Louisiana **Tags:** aviation, bridges, coastal, dams, Drinking Water, inland waterways, levees, Louisiana, ports, roads, solid waste, state report card, wastewater --- ### [A Chance to Fix the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-chance-to-fix-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** May 1, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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interview with [Bloomberg News](https://www.bloomberg.com/politics/articles/2017-05-01/trump-open-to-raising-gas-tax-and-negotiating-tax-overhaul-plan) that raising the tax to fund infrastructure is “something that I would certainly consider.” So far this Congress, Rep. Earl Blumenauer (OR-3) has introduced [legislation](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1458?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22raise+it%22%5D%7D&r=1) to raise the federal gas tax, while fellow Oregonian and Ranking Member of House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR-4) introduced [legislation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rep-defazio-introduces-legislation-to-invest-500-billion-in-roads-bridges-transit/) to index the gas tax to inflation, but both bills have been expected to face an uphill climb. Despite the efforts of infrastructure advocates, raising the gas tax has long been viewed as a political non-starter in Washington, but with Congress beginning discussions on tax reform, many see an opportunity to fix the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). The Highway Trust Fund is the main funding source for the federal government’s investments in highway and transit infrastructure and is primarily funded through the federal motor fuels tax (aka the ‘gas tax’) of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel. At the federal level, the gas tax has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has reduced its purchasing power by 40%. To make up for the dwindling value of the gas tax, Congress has transferred $140 billion from the General Fund to the HTF since 2008. Unless a solution is found, Congress will again have to transfer general funds to the HTF in 2020. Decades of insufficient investment is clearly reflected in the state of our infrastructure. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* graded the nation’s [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) a “D,” [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) a “C+,” and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) a “D-.” The U.S. is on track to invest from federal, state, local, and private sources less than half what is needed in surface transportation over the next decade, leaving a [$1.1 trillion gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/). Failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and, most importantly, public safety. If the surface transportation funding gap is not addressed, the U.S. will lose over [$1.2 trillion in GDP and 1.1 million jobs by 2025](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/). In order to repair our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit, we must first fix the federal HTF. Addressing the HTF’s long-term solvency is a key part of closing the surface transportation investment gap. Over the past 30 years, all HTF revenue enhancements have been part of larger tax packages, so the current tax reform discussions present an ideal opportunity to #FixTheTrustFund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=A%20Chance%20to%20Fix%20the%20Highway%20Trust%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, bridges, congress, gas tax, highway trust fund, roads, surface transportation, transit, transportation --- ### [South Carolina Legislature Says “Yes” to Gas Tax Increase](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/south-carolina-legislature-says-yes-to-gas-tax-increase/) **Published:** May 10, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=South%20Carolina%20Legislature%20Says%20%E2%80%9CYes%E2%80%9D%20to%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")For the first time in 30 years South Carolina will [increase its gas tax](http://www.wltx.com/news/politics/sc-gas-tax-increase-becomes-law-after-senate-overrides-veto/438531355). With a resounding veto override South Carolina joins California, Indiana, Montana, and Tennessee as the 5th state to raise the gas tax in 2017 and 22nd state since 2013. The package was a few legislative sessions in the making and the result of the swift work of a late-session conference committee. Upon receiving the gas tax bill on May 9, Governor [McMaster issued a veto](http://www.thestate.com/news/politics-government/article149599329.html) expressing his belief that the state had sufficient funds to maintain its roads. The South Carolina Department of Transportation recently estimated it needs nearly $1 billion annually to effectively repair and maintain its roads. As approved by the legislature the bill has the potential to raise an estimated $640 million annually in recurring revenue for road repair and maintenance. While this does not fully meet the existing funding gap it is a step in the right direction towards improving South Carolina’s roads. The details of the roads plan are as follows and are further explained on the [Transportation Investment Advocacy Center](http://transportationinvestment.org/may-9-south-carolina-lawmakers-send-transportation-funding-bill-to-governor/) blog: - Gradually increasing the state’s fuel tax by 2 cents-per-gallon annually over the next six years, beginning July 1 (12 cents-per-gallon total, resulting in a state gas tax rate of 28 cents-per-gallon); - Instituting a $120 fee for vehicles powered by anything other than motor fuel and $60 fee for hybrid vehicles; - Increasing biennial registration fees for passenger motor vehicles by $16; - Creating an ‘Infrastructure Maintenance Fee’, charged on the purchase of motor vehicles and capped at $500 (replacing the current $300 sales tax on motor vehicles); - Instituting a $250 one-time fee for motor vehicles transferred from another state; and - Charging out-of-state commercial truckers a fee based on miles driven annually within the state. As means of easing the increase in price at the pump, the bill also included a number of tax cuts. Among those included are an earned income tax credit, two-wage earner tax credit, tuition tax credits, and manufacturing, business, and personal property tax reductions. ASCE applauds the legislature for approving the additional funding necessary to operate, maintain, and improve the South Carolina’s transportation system. 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More than 100 events are being held around the country this week, with the goal of elevating infrastructure as a critical issue impacting all Americans. Things kicked off Monday morning with an event at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, featuring Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock, ASCE’s President Norma Jean Mattei, Ph.D., P.E., F.SEI, M.COPRI, F.ASCE, and leading CEOs and national labor leaders. Over the course of the next five days, 250 affiliate partner organizations will host events on public-private partnerships, smart cities, water management, supply chains, and autonomous vehicles, to name a few. The Infrastructure Week message – the time for Congress and the Administration to invest in infrastructure is *now* – will be buoyed by media coverage, education and advocacy efforts in Washington and around the country. Participants can share the Infrastructure Week message by [writing](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=348653) to their elected official, attending [events](http://infrastructureweek.org/calendar/), and using the #**timetobuild** hashtag to share social media [content](http://infrastructureweek.org/shareables/) online. Infrastructure Week is taking place as many Americans agree that infrastructure should be prioritized both by Congress and the Trump White House. A new poll, commissioned by the Value of Water Campaign for Infrastructure Week, found that 67 percent of those surveyed said rebuilding America’s infrastructure should be an extremely or very important focus for Washington. Consensus on the need to invest in our roads, bridges, ports, rail, and drinking water systems was significantly higher than on other issues tested, including tax and healthcare reform, and defense spending. The urgency surrounding the need for infrastructure investment echoes the findings of [ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), released in March of this year. In the latest quadrennial report, America’s infrastructure earned a cumulative G.P.A. of a “D+.” To raise the grades, ASCE recommends several solutions, including increasing investment from all levels of government and the private sector from 2.5 percent to 3.5 percent of U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025. ASCE’s recommendation will be among the messages sent to President Trump and Congress by advocates during Infrastructure Week. To follow along and participate, visit [www.infrastructureweek.org](http://www.infrastructureweek.org). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Trump%20Administration%20Proposes%20Budget&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On May 23, 2017, President Donald Trump released his budget request for Fiscal Year 2018, which follows the blueprint, or “skinny,” budget released in March 2017. The proposal cuts funding for all federal departments except the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security. The agency with the largest percentage decrease in funding is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ***Environmental Protection Agency*** The proposal would reduce the EPA’s funding to $5.65 billion, a decrease of $2.6 billion, or 31% cut, from the FY17 enacted level and would include the elimination of about 20% of the workforce. Adjusting for inflation, this would represent the nation’s lowest funding for the agency since the mid-1970s. The proposal calls for elimination of 50 EPA programs, including the Clean Power Plan— the Obama Administration regulation that would curb carbon emissions from power plants—and regional ecosystem protection programs, including the Chesapeake Bay program and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. In March 2017, a bipartisan group in Congress sent a [letter](http://www.healthylakes.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FINAL-GLRI-FY18-03.28.17.pdf) to House appropriators urging them to continue investment in the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative as it “is showing real and measurable results, but there is still a great deal of work to do.” The budget request does, includes $2.3 billion, a $4 million increase from FY17 enacted levels, for the EPA’s State Revolving Funds, which provide low-interest loans for investments in water and sanitation infrastructure. The water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program received a request of $20 million, of which $17 million will be available for loans. WIFIA, which was enacted in the passage of the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014, is a program that provides low-interest loans for major—$20 million or more—drinking water or wastewater infrastructure projects. ***U.S. Army Corps of Engineers*** Under the proposed budget, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would receive $5 billion, a $400 million increase from the previous Administration’s request of $4.6 billion, though it still represents a decrease of more than 16% from the FY17 enacted level. The Army Corps’ construction account would receive $1.02 billion, a 50% cut from the FY17 enacted level. Furthermore, its investigations account would be decreased by 29% from the FY17 enacted level, limiting its ability to start new water resources projects. The proposal calls for all revenue collected through the Inland Waterways Trust Fund to be used. ***U.S. Department of Energy*** The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) would receive $28 billion, a 5.6% decrease from the FY17 annualized CR level. DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) would receive $646 million, a 70% decrease from the FY16 enacted level. The proposal calls for elimination of the Title XVII clean energy projects loan program, the Energy Star program, the Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program, and the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), a bipartisan initiative that funds research into cutting-edge energy technology. In response to the budget proposal, Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), released a [statement](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/democratic-news?ID=080F772B-F19A-4937-B745-AB036234FA28) saying “His budget proposes a staggering 70% cut to renewables and energy efficiency initiatives. This would devastate an emerging sector of our economy by killing thousands of clean-energy jobs all over the country…” However, the budget does ask for an additional $1.4 billion, an 11% increase above 2017 annualized levels, for the DOE’s National Nuclear Security Administration, a semi-autonomous agency focused on managing the nations’ nuclear weapons arsenal. It would also include $90 million to restart licensing of the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste storage facility in Nevada. *U.S. Department of Transportation*** The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) would receive $76 billion, a 4.5% decrease from the FY17 enacted level. The budget provides most of the funding authorized by the FAST Act, requesting all of the funds from the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) but only about half of the authorized general funds (note: the $305 billion FAST Act included $70 billion of general funds). This results in the Administration requesting 96.2% of the FAST Act’s authorization for FY18. Disappointingly the budget does include any proposals on fixing the HTF and assumes that starting in 2021 (when the FAST Act expires), HTF spending will match its revenue (i.e. no more general fund transfers). The Administration predicts this will decrease federal investment from the HTF by $95 billion from 2021-2027. The DOT’s discretionary programs unsurprisingly saw much larger cuts as they rely on general funds. The Administration requested no money for the TIGER grant program, again signaling their intention to end the popular program, which had for the last three years been funded at $500 million annually. The budget requests $1.2 billion for the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant program (CIG), a sharp decline from the FY17 enacted level of $2.4 billion and the FAST Act authorized level of $2.3 billion. CIG is a competitive grant program that helps fund light rail, heavy rail, commuter rail, streetcar, and bus rapid transit projects. The Administration’s proposed funding level would allow for projects with signed and executed full funding grant agreements to be funded, but would likely not allow new funding agreements to be signed. The budget proposes cutting funding for Amtrak in half, to $760 million for FY18. The Administration is proposing eliminating subsidies for long-distance routes, which would likely lead to their discontinuation. ***Infrastructure Initiative*** The budget included a request for $200 billion for President Trump’s infrastructure initiative and included a [fact sheet](https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/whitehouse.gov/files/omb/budget/fy2018/fact_sheets/2018%20Budget%20Fact%20Sheet_Infrastructure%20Initiative.pdf) outlining the Administration’s approach to fixing the nation’s infrastructure. The document says, “the Administration’s goal is to seek long-term reforms on how infrastructure projects are regulated, funded, delivered, and maintained. Providing more Federal funding, on its own, is not the solution to our infrastructure challenges. Rather, we will work to fix underlying incentives, procedures, and policies to spur better infrastructure decisions and outcomes, across a range of sectors.” Administration officials have previously stated a full infrastructure proposal will be released in the third-quarter of this year. ***National Science Foundation*** The National Science Foundation (NSF) budget request is $6.65 billion, a decrease of $840.5 or 11.2%. The cut would mean reducing the number of new grants it can fund each year from 8,800 to 8,000. This is part of wider trend across the budget that would cut federal spending on basic research by 13%, or $4.3 billion, to $28.9 billion. Historically, the federal government has provided the bulk of the nation’s spending on fundamental science, defined as studies undertaken without specific applications towards processes or products in mind. In recent years, however, the share of basic research funding provided by the federal government has been slipping, from roughly 70% in the 1960s and 1970s to an estimated 44% in 2015. ***Department of Energy Office of Science*** The Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Office of Science is the single largest funder of the physical sciences in the United States. Spending for the office would fall 17% to $4.473 billion, the lowest level since 2008, *not* adjusting for inflation. The ax would fall on some research programs harder than others, however. In particular, DOE’s work on biological and environmental research would fall by 43%, as the administration cuts or eliminates much of DOE’s climate research. ***National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration*** The request for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) would drastically cut into the agency’s climate research, closing many labs and programs. NOAA’s Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR), one of the agency’s primary research arms, would see its budget drop by 22%, from $514 million to $400 million. OAR’s climate-focused program would see a cut of $31 million, with $21 million of it taken from support for competitive research grants. The proposal would also eliminate the Air Resources Laboratory, ending its research on air chemistry, mercury deposition, and atmospheric dispersion of harmful materials. Development of an atmospheric model that has emergency response applications, including tracking mercury deposition and anthrax bioterrorism, would also end. The agency would eliminate the Vortex-Southeast, a $5 million program used to detect, respond to, and warn against tornadoes in the Southeastern United States. The agency requested $1.058 billion for the National Weather Service, down 6% from 2017. Cutting $11 million for tsunami warning and eliminating support for preparedness and innovation research. The agency would also cut $5 million from its next-generation weather model, slowing the transition of advanced modeling research into operations. And it would save another $5 million by terminating all development, testing, and implementation of experimental products to extend operational weather outlooks … from 16 days to 30 days—a priority of the recent weather bill passed by Congress. ***U.S. Geological Survey*** The budget requests $922.2 million for the U.S. Geological Survey, a cut of 14% or $137.8 million. Among the specific programs, the cuts include 26.3% for Climate and Land Use Change, 11.4% for Natural Hazards, 18.5% for water resources, and 20.7% for core science programs. The cuts to the hazards programs include eliminating federal support for *ShakeAlert* west coast earthquake early warning system, and reduces support for research on earthquake hazards assessments and research in area of moderate risk. ***Department of Education*** The 2018 Budget proposes $59 billion for the Department of Education, a $9 billion or 13%reduction. The budget proposal would eliminate entirely both the $2.4 billion Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants program and the $1.2 billion 21st Century Community Learning Centers afterschool program,which provide funding for STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Mathematics) instruction and teacher training. 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California’s Oroville Dam. The high-profile incident brought increased attention to the many challenges facing our nation’s dams, [most recently graded a “D” in the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) Lessening risk and increasing information are major strides we can take to raise the Dams grade and ensure public safety. Today, National Dam Safety Awareness Day, is one part of achieving that goal. The day commemorates the 1889 failure of the South Fork Dam in Johnstown, Penn., which took 2,200 lives and serves as a reminder that dams need to be closely monitored and maintained. One of the main challenges facing America’s dams is the increasing number that have high-hazard-potential. As our population grows, more people and property are likely to be living below a dam. The high-hazard-potential classification onto itself does not mean a dam is unsafe, but rather that failure or mis-operation would likely result in loss of life as well as significant economic losses, including damages to downstream property or critical infrastructure, environmental damage, and/or disruption of lifeline facilities. About 15,500 of the country’s 90,580 dams – 17 percent – are now designated as high-hazard-potential. That is why we as a country need to be doing more to address our nation’s aging dams. Increased dam safety will be achieved through a combination of investment, resources, monitoring, and planning. For example, the Report Card recommends that every high-hazard-potential dam should have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) by 2021. An EAP is like a fire safety plan for an entire community. We’re well on our way to achieving this goal, as 77% of high-hazard-potential dams have an EAP, up from 66% in the 2013 Report Card. Another way we can lessen dam safety risk is by funding the national dam rehab and repair program for non-federal dams, which was created through the Water Infrastructure Improves the Nation (WIIN) Act last December. As dams age, just like all infrastructure, they require attention and investment. To safeguard the public, we need to improve our aging and deteriorating dams and ensure that every high-hazard-potential dam has an EAP. National Dam Safety Awareness Day needs to be a day of action. You can learn more at [LivingNearDams.org](http://livingneardams.org/). Do your part by [asking Congress to fund the National Dam Rehabilitation Program.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?8&engagementId=307175) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=It%E2%80%99s%20National%20Dam%20Safety%20Awareness%20Day&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=It%E2%80%99s%20National%20Dam%20Safety%20Awareness%20Day "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Mark Warner (D-VA) and Roy Blunt (R-MO), along with [seven other bipartisan cosponsors](https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/5/sens-warner-blunt-lead-bipartisan-coalition-to-reintroduce-infrastructure-legislation), recently introduced [S. 1168 – BRIDGE Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1168/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22bridge++act%22%5D%7D&r=2) to establish a national infrastructure bank to give state and local governments another tool in the toolbox for financing infrastructure projects. The bank would help state and local governments better leverage private funds to build, maintain, and repair the nation’s infrastructure. Despite the legislation’s name, transit, rail, airport, marine port, energy, water, and water resources projects of regional or national significance would all be eligible to apply for financing from the bank. The creation of an infrastructure bank was first proposed in Washington over two decades ago and has been floated in a variety of forms since then, including by President Obama and by then Trump transition team member, now Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin. Sen. Warner has been working on his version since first introducing it in the 113th Congress. The bill would establish an independent, nonpartisan financing authority to provide loans and loan guarantees to help state and local governments fund the most economically viable infrastructure projects. The bank would receive a one-time seed funding of $10 billion, which could incentive private investment. The bill’s authors predict the legislation could make possible $300 billion or more in total project investment. The bank is designed to be self-sustaining and not require additional federal appropriations. The idea, which has been executed at the state level, is that as one project’s funds are paid back, that funding can then be used to finance another project. ASCE [supports](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-532---national-infrastructure-bank/) the creation of a national infrastructure bank assuming it meets the following criteria: - The bank should be capitalized initially by general fund appropriations and should be self-sustaining after the initial start-up period; - The bank should develop financing packages for selected projects; and - The bank should not replace existing infrastructure funding and financing mechanisms, but act as a supplement to leverage federal, state, local, and private infrastructure financing. ASCE’s President Norma Jean Mattei, PH.D., P.E. said about the BRIDGE Act: > “If we are to improve our nation’s infrastructure, graded a D+ in ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*, we can no longer afford to defer needed investment in modernization and maintenance. Under Sen. Warner’s leadership, the BRIDGE Act would make a significant step toward this increased, sustained investment, establishing a new, innovative funding authority designed to attract billions of dollars in private sector investment in our nation’s water, transportation, and energy sectors. Sen. Blunt’s co-sponsorship demonstrates once again that infrastructure is a bipartisan issue that impacts the lives of all Americans. Through the BRIDGE Act, our nation’s infrastructure will receive much-needed additional funding to help narrow the $2 trillion infrastructure investment gap that currently costs every American family $3,400 a year out of their discretionary income.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Legislation%20to%20Create%20National%20Infrastructure%20Bank%20Reintroduced&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Drinking Water, Energy, News, Ports, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit, Uncategorized **Tags:** Airports, bridges, Drinking Water, energy, financing, infrastructure, infrastructure bank, ports, rail, roads, transit, wastewater --- ### [Sens. Hoeven and Wyden Reintroduce Move America Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sens-hoeven-and-wyden-reintroduce-move-america-act/) **Published:** June 5, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Sens. John Hoeven (R-ND) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) [recently re-introduced](https://www.finance.senate.gov/ranking-members-news/hoeven-wyden-reintroduce-move-america-act) their [Move America Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1229) to expand the availability of tax-exempt bonds and create a new tax credit, bringing more private capital into infrastructure and giving states more flexibility to pursue infrastructure projects. The legislation creates Move America Bonds, expanding private activity bonds, which encourage private entities to invest in infrastructure. Similar to municipal bonds, private activity bonds are issued by state or local governments and are tax-exempt, which lowers their borrowing costs. While municipal bond revenue goes to the issuing government, private activity bonds provide financing for qualified private projects. Under the Move America Act, each state would receive a bond allocation, based on population size. The legislation also creates Move America Credits and allows smaller states to trade in some or all of their bond allocation for federal tax credits. Credits would be available for direct investment in projects and could be used to capitalize state infrastructure banks or other infrastructure revolving funds. Together, the Move America Bonds and Credits would give state and local governments another tool to bring in badly needed infrastructure funding. ASCE’s President Norma Jean Mattei PH.D., P.E. said about the legislation: > “The nation’s ‘D+’ infrastructure, as graded in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, is the result of insufficient investment. Move America brings together the federal, state, and local governments, and private capital to narrow the nation’s infrastructure investment gap to improve our nation’s infrastructure, which currently costs every American family $3,400 a year in lost disposable income.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Sens.%20Hoeven%20and%20Wyden%20Reintroduce%20Move%20America%20Act "Share on 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Forum](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/drinking-water-wastewater-discussed-at-the-sharing-water-a-north-american-regional-process-for-the-8th-world-water-forum/) **Published:** June 6, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Drinking%20Water%20%26%20Wastewater%20Discussed%20at%20the%20Sharing%20Water%3A%20A%20North%20American%20Regional%20Process%20for%20the%208th%20World%20Water%20Forum&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On June 5, 2017, the World Wildlife Fund, the Coca-Cola Company, and the World Water Council co-hosted “Sharing Water,” an all-day conference in Washington, D.C. focused on sharing water across people, governments, businesses, and nature. This event, which featured D.C. Water’s CEO George Hawkins, Mayor Dr. Karen Weaver of Flint, Michigan, and speakers from the World Bank Group and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), among others, was held in preparation for the world’s largest meeting on water to be held in Brazil next March, the[ 8th World Water Forum](http://www.worldwaterforum8.org/). In the opening of his keynote address, Dr. Peter Grevatt, the Director of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) [Office of Groundwater and Drinking Water](https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water), said that “Every community, job, business, and family requires safe drinking water to be available.” In the U.S., drinking water is delivered via one million miles of pipes, many of which were laid in the early to mid-20th century with a lifespan of 75 to 100 years. The American Water Works Association estimates that $1 trillion will be needed to upgrade existing water systems and to meet the drinking water infrastructure needs over the next 25 years. Dr. Grevatt then provided the audience with several examples of recent water main breaks in the country, just a few of the estimated 240,000 water main breaks per year that waste over two trillion gallons of treated drinking water and result in millions of dollars of economic loss. In fact, ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) graded the nation’s drinking water a “D.” In his closing remarks, Dr. Grevatt said “There is no \[government\] program more personal to the American public than safe drinking water” and praised the role that the EPA’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF) play in ensuring safe drinking water to the American public and in providing low-interest loans for state and local water infrastructure projects. In his [Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Request](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trump-administration-proposes-budget/) released last month, President Trump proposed $2.3 billion for the State Revolving Funds, a $4 million increase from FY17 enacted levels. Dr. Grevatt also spoke of the critical importance of the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program in funding large water infrastructure projects over $20 million. The EPA estimates that $1 billion in credit assistance may finance over $2 billion in water infrastructure investments, and the agency recently [announced](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/bill-signed-president-trump-gives-epas-wifia-program-additional-help-meet-communities) that in response to its Notice of Funding Availability issued in January 2017, it received 43 letters of interest from prospective borrowers across the nation. As the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure ages, the cost to repair and replace our pipes and treatment systems will continue to increase. The ASCE urges Congress to reauthorize the minimum federal funding of the DWSRF and CWSRF at $20 billion over five years and $15 billion over five years, respectively, and encourages Congress to fully fund WIFIA at $175 million over five years. 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Infrastructure **Tags:** budget, Drinking Water, EPA, USAID --- ### [President Trump Highlights Need for Investments in Inland Waterways Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-highlights-need-for-investments-in-inland-waterways-infrastructure/) **Published:** June 8, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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month [President Trump released a $1 trillion infrastructure plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/whitehouse.gov/files/omb/budget/fy2018/fact_sheets/2018%20Budget%20Fact%20Sheet_Infrastructure%20Initiative.pdf_) that calls for leveraging $200 billion in direct federal spending over the next decade with state and private sector funding. As a follow up, the White House spent this week rolling out details of the plan in what they referred to as “infrastructure week.” On Monday, the President spoke of his desire to move the nation’s air traffic control system to a[ private nonprofit group](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/06/05/president-donald-j-trumps-principles-reforming-us-air-traffic-control). On Wednesday, the President held back-to-back visits in Cincinnati, Ohio and Kentucky to speak about the need for investment in our nation’s inland waterways system and to outline his vision for supporting rural America. On Thursday, the President met with mayors and governors to discuss their infrastructure needs and goals, and he plans to end the week Friday with an address at the Department of Transportation about overhauling our nation’s permitting process and regulations. During his speech at a marina along the Ohio River, President Trump highlighted the urgent need for increased investments in our nation’s 25,000 miles of inland waterways, which include aging locks, dams, levees, and ports. Referencing his recently released Fiscal Year 2018 Budget Request, the President proposed the creation of an inland waterways toll to supplement the Inland Waterways Trust Fund user tax. Though the President spoke of the need for additional funding, his FY18 Budget Request would cut the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE) construction account by 50 percent. Construction and rehabilitation costs of the inland waterways is shared evenly between the federal government and by users that pay the Inland Waterways Trust Fund. Operation and maintenance of the inland waterways, however, is solely paid by the federal government and performed by the USACE. The Inland Waterways Trust Fund is supported by a 29 cents per gallon tax on barge fuel, and in April 2015, this user tax was increased by 9 cents for the first time since 1995. Though recent increases in investment have made some improvements to the inland waterways system, funding must continue at a higher and more consistent level. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* gave our nation’s inland waterways a grade of “D.” The inland waterways system, which supports more than half a million jobs and delivered more than $229 billion worth of cargo in 2015, is comprised of a system of locks and dams that are well beyond their 50-year design life. Increasing ship traffic, coupled with the frequent shutting down of locks for repair, has resulted in vessel delays that nearly doubled from 64 minutes in 2000 to 121 minutes in 2014. The USACE estimates that the nation’s inland waterways system will require a $4.9 billion investment over the next 20 years. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Highlights%20Need%20for%20Investments%20in%20Inland%20Waterways%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Inland Waterways, Kentucky, News, Ohio, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** inland waterways --- ### [Majority of House Signs Letter Asking to Fix the Highway Trust Fund](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/majority-of-house-signs-letter-asking-to-fix-the-highway-trust-fund/) **Published:** June 13, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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A long-term solution to the HTF structural revenue deficit would promote increased transportation infrastructure investment and meaningful economic growth in every state,” the letter reads. The letter was spearheaded by Reps. Sam Graves (R-MO) and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), the chair and ranking member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways & Transit, and was signed by a majority of both Republican and Democrat members. The HTF is the main funding source for the federal government’s investments in highway and transit infrastructure and is primarily funded through the federal motor fuels tax (aka the ‘gas tax’) of 18.4 cents per gallon on gasoline and 24.4 cents per gallon on diesel. At the federal level, the gas tax has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has reduced its purchasing power by 40%. To make up for the dwindling value of the gas tax, Congress has transferred $140 billion from the General Fund to the HTF since 2008, including $70 billion in 2015’s FAST Act. Unless Congress takes action to fix the Trust Fund and provide it with a sustainable and adequate funding source, they will again have to look elsewhere to find billions to fully fund the next surface transportation bill when the FAST Act expires in December 2020. All HTF revenue increases over the past 30 years have been done as a part of larger tax bills, so the 253 co-signers view the current tax reform push as the perfect opportunity to address this vital issue. Putting it off further is not an option. Already, decades of underinvestment is clearly reflected in the state of our infrastructure. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* graded the nation’s [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) a “D,” [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) a “C+,” and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) a “D-.” The U.S. is on track to invest from federal, state, local, and private sources less than half what is needed in surface transportation over the next decade, leaving a [$1.1 trillion gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/). Failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and, most importantly, public safety. If the surface transportation funding gap is not addressed, the U.S. will lose over [$1.2 trillion in GDP and 1.1 million jobs by 2025](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/). 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=States%20Wrap%20Up%202017%20Legislative%20Session&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F02%2Fgc-transportation-overpass.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=States%20Wrap%20Up%202017%20Legislative%20Session "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Now is a good time to review what progress has been made on infrastructure issues. Despite mixed outcomes, transportation was once again at the top of the “to do lists” of many legislative chambers in 2017. Five states ([California, Indiana, Montana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-approve-major-transportation-packages/), [South Carolina](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/south-carolina-legislature-says-yes-to-gas-tax-increase/) and [Tennessee](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-approve-major-transportation-packages/)) invested in their roads by raising the gas tax this session. Here is just a taste of the activity we’ve been following from coast to coast: - Connecticut has the potential to join nearly 30 other states in extending “[lockbox](http://www.ctnewsjunkie.com/archives/entry/senate_sends_transportation_lockbox_to_voters/)” protections to its Transportation coffers. On June 7, the Senate overwhelming approved a bill that places the decision in the hands of voters during the next general election in 2018. While there was success on this measure [a bill on tolling](https://ctmirror.org/2017/06/06/house-inches-ct-closer-to-tolls/) failed to advance out of the House Chamber. - Louisiana had a short-lived run at a gas tax increase. The bill proposed by State Representative Steve Carter (R-Baton Rouge) would have raised the gas tax by [17-cents per gallon](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/basetemplate.aspx?storyid=46204) was shelved after it was believed it would not muster the votes needed for passage. Despite negotiations that would have reduced the increase to 10-cents per gallon, the bill was not given an opportunity to be voted on in this year’s session. - Minnesota’s legislature and Governor Dayton (D) took their transportation funding debate into special session. (A special session is when the legislature comes together outside of its pre-scheduled session for a specific purpose.) While a [$6 billion package](http://www.forconstructionpros.com/asphalt/news/20862952/minnesota-legislature-approves-6-billion-transportation-package) was ultimately passed, it did so relying on transfers from the general fund rather than increases in users fees, like the gas tax and motor vehicle registration. - Texas wrapped up its 2017 session with a [budget compromise](https://www.texastribune.org/2017/05/21/budget-compromise-taps-rainy-day-fund-transportation-funding/) that delays some of the funding authorized by a ballot measure. The delay affects nearly $2 billion in revenue slated for the state transportation fund by the passage of [Proposition 7](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/voters-say-yes-to-infrastructure-on-nov-3/) in 2015. - West Virginia Governor Jim Justice (D) and the state legislature are currently in discussions over the state’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year. One of the many talking points surrounds [transportation funding](http://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/20170605/wv-governor-urges-house-dems-to-back-budget-plan). The Governor has been clear that he wishes to raise the gas tax, Department of Motor Vehicle fees and tolls on the West Virginia Turnpike to raise additional revenue for road reconstruction. Currently in a special session, it remains to be seen what the legislature will do. - Wisconsin has been [grappling](http://wuwm.com/post/lawmakers-governor-odds-over-wisconsin-budget) with how best to fund its transportation needs over the last few sessions. While Governor and legislature remain at odds as to whether a gas tax increase, tolling or some not yet named alternative funding source is best, the state is nearing the July 1 start of the fiscal year. Wisconsin however, is one of the few states that remains in session year round so there’s still time to resolve any differences during the regular session. ASCE will continue to keep a close eye on the states as infrastructure funding discussions extend into summer recesses or interim work periods. We ask that you do the same by [seeing what’s on the table](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/states) in your state. 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for aviation in the *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/), the House and Senate committees released their bills yesterday to reauthorize the agency. The House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee’s bill, [H.R. 2997](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2997), will be the more controversial of the two as it includes Chairman Bill Shuster’s (R-PA) divisive proposal to privatize air traffic control. Both bills increase funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), the grant program that is the largest source of federal funding for aviation infrastructure, but neither modify the cap on the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC). PFCs are fees airports can collect from departing passengers and use to fund federally-approved capital projects. Since 2000, the federal government has capped PFCs at $4.50 per enplanement, restricting local airports abilities to determine their own needs, raise necessary funds, and invest in their own infrastructure. The [House bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2997) would reauthorize the FAA for six years. It would increase funding for AIP to $3.424 billion for FY18 (from the current level of $3.35 billion) and steadily increase to $3.817 in FY23. While leaving the PFC cap unchanged, the House bill modifies some of the rules governing how airports can use PFC revenue. The bill also increases funding for the Essential Air Service and includes reforms to the certification process for aircraft, as well as provisions related to noise, consumer protections, crew rest periods, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation’s bill, [S. 1405](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1405), would reauthorize the FAA for four years. The bill would keep funding flat for the AIP program for FY18 at $3.35 billion, but would rise to $3.75 billion per year for FY19-2021. The Senate bill also modifies some of the rules governing how airports may spend the PFC funds. The bill also includes reforms to the certification process for aircraft, as well as provisions related to lithium batteries, consumer protections, crew rest periods and UAVs. The bill orders a number of studies including one on future aviation infrastructure and financing and one on all aspects of NextGen (FAA’s initiative to modernize air traffic control). Both bills are scheduled to be marked up in their respective committees next week with the stated goal of full passage in July. The FAA’s current authorization won’t expire until September 30th, but Congress traditionally recesses for all of August, so the Senate is only scheduled to be in session for 37 days and the House for 30 days before time is up. 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Challenges and Opportunities in America’s Heartland](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/Rural_Roads_TRIP_Report_2017.pdf). With the nation’s roads as a whole receiving a “D” grade in ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*, the condition of rural roads is a major contributing factor to the low grade. TRIP’s new report outlines the worsening deterioration of roads and bridges in rural areas and the impacts failing infrastructure has on rural America’s economy, safety, and ability to connect to the rest of the world. These poor conditions have a serious effect, as the report found that traffic crashes and fatalities were two-and-a-half times more likely to occur on rural non-Interstate roads than all other roads. These increased fatalities were the result of several factors including a lack of desirable roadway safety features, longer emergency response times, and the higher speeds traveled on rural roads compared to urban roads. The quality of rural roads is often overlooked, but the safety of rural communities cannot be ignored. Rural America is the backbone of our economy. The deteriorating state of rural roads and bridges greatly impacts rural communities’ ability to move their products to market. Transportation delays and added costs hurt farmers and ranchers’ ability to turn a profit and limit the competitiveness of their businesses. The health of the nation’s economy depends on us investing in rural transportation infrastructure. Current rural transportation infrastructure fails to provide many communities with needed levels of connectivity. A rural transportation system that values connectedness through increased funding to rural highways would help residents connect to jobs and provide better routes for goods to get to market. TRIP recommends several ways America can improve rural communities’ transportation infrastructure system, including: - Fixing the federal Highway Trust Fund with a long-term, sustainable source of revenue that supports the transportation investment needed - Modernizing major two-lane roads and highways so they can accommodate increased personal and commercial travel. - Adequately funding needed rural roadway safety improvements and providing enhanced enforcement, education and improved emergency response to reduce the rate of rural traffic fatalities. - Adequately funding local and state transportation programs to preserve rural roads, highways and bridges, which are needed to support the rural economy. - Increasing connectivity to smaller communities by widening and extending rural highways that would facilitate access to jobs, education and healthcare, while improving access for agriculture, energy, manufacturing, forestry, tourism and other critical segments of the rural economy. Rural highways play a vital role for Americans and in the larger freight network. That’s why it’s time to increase investment into our nation’s roads and bridges by fixing the Highway Trust Fund. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Rural%20Transportation%20Facing%20a%20Rough%20Road&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Roads **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, bridges, roads, rural roads, surface transportation --- ### [Infrastructure in the News: Let's Hear it for Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-in-the-news-lets-hear-it-for-investment/) **Published:** June 30, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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infrastructure is not a secret—but some weeks it’s more obvious than others. This is one of those weeks. Transit failures of our nation’s largest subway systems and continued dissatisfaction with surface transportation infrastructure makes Americans more willing to invest. Tuesday’s derailment of the NYC subway was a brutal wakeup call for how much we rely on infrastructure, and how easily disruptions to it can affect our lives. While the derailment was ultimately [blamed on human error](http://www.today.com/video/nyc-subway-derailment-blamed-on-human-error-977866307841), the incident brings to light a series of issues with our nation’s transit in general. The NYC subway, the largest system in the country, has had many recent incidents of malfunction and underperformance due to [aging equipment and outdated systems](http://www.machinedesign.com/industrial-automation/new-york-citys-subway-metaphor-nations-infrastructure). The [D.C. metro](http://reason.com/blog/2017/06/26/dc-metro-a-national-embarrassment) may even rival the NYC subway in malfunction, having been dubbed the [“worst in the world.”](http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/lets-face-it-washington-dcs-metro-is-the-worst-in-the-world/article/2626197) The Metro has been so problematic lately that they even released an [official apology](http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Red-Line-Service-Temporarily-Suspended-Between--430328553.html) after causing major delays on the most heavily traveled line. Metro’s backlog of technical issues calls for a level of maintenance and repair that will increasingly interrupt the flow of ridership, creating a cycle of infrastructure tension and user frustration. The New York subway and D.C. metro serve as unfortunate models of what happens when infrastructure is not properly maintained. While Transit has the lowest grade in the Report Card, it’s not alone in funding and maintenance challenges. [TRIP’s rural road reports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rural-transportation-facing-a-rough-road/) shines on the issues facing the transportation network in less populated areas, including in [Michigan](http://www.hollandsentinel.com/news/20170628/michigan-rural-american-roads-and-bridges-need-help) and [South Carolina](http://www.postandcourier.com/news/south-carolina-leads-nation-in-fatality-rate-for-rural-roads/article_69f08cac-5b5f-11e7-a478-d7dc9d5649b9.html), demonstrating the unique needs and challenges to get roads in less-populous areas the funding they need to be safe and reliable. Being frank about its challenges, [Arkansas](http://www.ozarksfirst.com/news/ar-eyeing-new-funding-for-failing-roads/751406316) took the approach of explaining to citizens that it cannot get the job done with its limited funding, and offered options for increasing investment, in hopes to persuade change. It can take a while for the message of investment to take hold, but more infrastructure owners and users are coming around to it. In a [recent survey](http://www.masstransitmag.com/press_release/12347847/survey-americans-continue-to-support-higher-gas-taxes-especially-for-maintenance) by the Mineta Transportation Institute, a majority of Americans polled said that they would be willing to pay more at the pump in taxes if the revenue is used for specific transportation purposes. A large majority (83 percent) said that expanding and improving transit services in their states should be a high or medium government priority. A similar mindset prompted A the action of the city of Lorain, Ohio, where they have [ raised sewer rates](http://www.morningjournal.com/general-news/20170627/another-viewpoint-sewer-rate-increase-difficult-but-necessary-for-lorain) because they recognized the need to increase investment to improve the system. With the potential of a major federal infrastructure bill looming, our nation has the potential to address the first key solution to improve our nation’s infrastructure: [investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20in%20the%20News%3A%20Let%E2%80%99s%20Hear%20it%20for%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit, Wastewater --- ### [One Water Summit 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/one-water-summit-2017/) **Published:** July 11, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=One%20Water%20Summit%202017 "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=One%20Water%20Summit%202017 "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on 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The summit’s themes included collaborating across and beyond water by leveraging effective partnerships across the water industry; financing and delivering water projects that maximize economic, environmental, and community benefits; communicating the value of water and engaging stakeholders; and building supportive water policies to create institutional change for “one water” projects to thrive. Attendees heard from a wide range of leaders and were given robust sharing, learning, and discussion opportunities. ASCE’s President Norma Jean Mattei gave remarks during the opening plenary session and moderated a panel of leaders from the New Orleans community to talk about the strides that have been made in integrating resilience into the rebuilding of their infrastructure post-Hurricane Katrina. Norma Jean summarized New Orleans’ efforts by saying that “…the city has changed the way we think about, manage, and enjoy water. We are learning to live with it, not against it.” As a city that has rebuilt and transformed itself in the wake of the 2005 Hurricane Katrina disaster, New Orleans was uniquely situated to host the One Water Summit. The summit included a series of site visits for attendees to see in-depth, first-hand views of some of the innovative water work being done throughout Greater New Orleans. The “Building Resilience Through Green Infrastructure” site visit included stops at green infrastructure and large-scale innovative urban water management projects. One such project was the [Mirabeau Water Garden](https://www.nola.gov/resilience/resources/project-pics/mirabeau-factsheet/), a 25-acre site of a former convent that is being designed to store up to 10 million gallons of stormwater while simultaneously serving as a space for community recreation and environmental learning. The city was awarded a $141 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) National Disaster Resilience Competition to fund the implementation of a series of integrated urban water infrastructure, energy resilience, community adaptation, and workforce development projects and programs, including the Mirabeau Water Garden. ASCE [supports](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-500---resilient-infrastructure/) initiatives that increase resilience of infrastructure against man-made and natural hazards, as well as the creation of green infrastructure, which provides advantages such as water and air quality improvement, aesthetic value to communities, and cost competitiveness. Throughout the summit, there were a wide variety of strategic dialogues meant to facilitate the discussion of critical questions for America’s water future and produce actionable items and recommendations. One such dialogue was focused on discussing the gains that could be realized from collaboration between the energy and water sectors and featured DC Water’s CEO [George Hawkins](https://www.dcwater.com/person/george-s-hawkins-esq), Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s Vice President of Corporate Strategy [Mallik Angalakudati](http://www.pgecorp.com/aboutus/our_team/MAngalakudati.shtml), and American Water Works’ President and CEO [Susan Story](http://pr.amwater.com/Company/management.cfm). For the past several decades, both the energy and water sectors have been pursuing strategies to increase efficiencies, though often on parallel tracks. The speakers discussed the potential benefits of cooperation between the two industries, including the possibility of working together to invest in large infrastructure projects that could produce efficiencies for both sectors. According to ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), municipal drinking water consumption and total freshwater withdrawals in the United states have declined in recent years due to increased efficiencies and water conservation efforts. Likewise, the energy industry has recently undergone a transformation as the result of a reduction in electric demand, changing delivery costs, and new regulations focused on reducing environmental impacts. However, the infrastructure that supports these sectors continues to age. The nation’s drinking water is delivered via one million miles of pipes, many of which were laid in the early to mid-20th century with a lifespan of 75 to 100 years. The American Water Works Association estimates that $1 trillion will be needed to upgrade existing water systems and to meet the drinking water infrastructure needs over the next 25 years. Similarly, some parts of the U.S. electric grid predate the turn of the 20th century. Most transmission and distribution (T&D) lines were constructed in the 1950s and 1906s with a 50-year life expectancy, and the lower 48 states’ power grid is at full capacity, with many lines operating well beyond their design. The cumulative investment gap for the electricity industry between 2016 and 2025 is estimated to be $177 billion. Investments in the energy sector lag because of private ownership, national security concerns, costs of service, and limited public visibility. In the drinking water sector, utility managers in cities with declining populations struggle to raise funds for capital infrastructure investments due to fewer rate payers, while those utility managers in cities with booming populations have a difficult task of conveying the need for rate increases to meet demand. The summit concluded with a closing plenary session focused on how we can work together across the water chain to create the public and political will for investments in sustainable water infrastructure. As the nation’s drinking water, wastewater, and energy infrastructure ages, the cost to repair and replace our drinking water pipes, wastewater treatment systems, and T&D grids will continue to increase. ASCE urges Congress to reauthorize the minimum federal funding of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and Clean Water State Revolving Fund at $20 billion over five years and $15 billion over five years, respectively, and encourages adoption and implementation of a federal energy policy that carefully assesses needed changes to provide clear direction for meeting current and future demands. 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July 14, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Oregon%20Legislature%20and%20Governor%20Reach%20Compromise%20on%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F07%2FGas-Tax-State-Map-by-year.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Oregon%20Legislature%20and%20Governor%20Reach%20Compromise%20on%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase "Share on 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The state was the first to levy a gas tax, in 1919. Ever since it has been innovative in its funding of transportation, including through the OreGo vehicle miles traveled pilot program. This year’s legislative activity continues the trend. Bringing its 2017 Legislative Session to a close it sent a 10-cent per gall graduated [gas tax increase](http://www.oregonlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2017/07/big_win_for_legislative_leader.html) to Governor Kate Brown for signature. When the 4-cent per gallon initial increment takes effect in 2018, it will be the first gas tax increase the state has seen in about five years when the rate was last adjusted for inflation. The gas tax will also increase gradually to 10-cents per gallon through 2024. As many states wait 20 years to adjust for inflation, Oregon is a leader by revisiting the issue more frequently. [HB 2017](https://olis.leg.state.or.us/liz/2017R1/Measures/Overview/HB2017) has the potential to raise an estimated $1 billion per fiscal year for state highways when at full effect during the 2025-27 biennium. Being a leader in the area of transportation funding one unique feature of the transportation is the implementation of a $15 fee on bicycle purchases that exceed $200. For a state that is heavy on cycling, this addition truly ensures that everyone is contributing to road maintenance. In addition to the gas tax increase and bike fee, revenue is set to be generated through these additional revenue streams: - An $16 flat increase in vehicle registration fees plus an additional tiered-fee will be assessed based on vehicle mileage to ensure everyone pays for their share of the roads. - Implements a 0.1% payroll tax to fund transit systems. - Implements a 0.5% new car sales tax to be allocated to multimodal programs. Once Governor Brown pens her signature the bill makes Oregon the sixth state in 2017 and the 24 state since 2013 to raise its gas tax. A special thank you to the ASCE Oregon Section for their efforts in reaching out to legislators to encourage the passage of this bill. ![USA map showing state gas tax increases](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Gas-Tax-State-Map-by-year-400x335.png "Gas Tax State Map by year") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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For proof, look no further than two of our nation’s most prominent cities’ subway systems. Reliable transit systems are critical for thriving cities. Yet the subway systems in our nation’s capital and New York City are paying the price for years of neglected maintenance. And riders are bearing the consequences. As an article in [Crain’s New York Business](http://www.crainsnewyork.com/article/20170709/OPINION/170709962/transit-mess-was-years-in-the-making-8232-now-we-must-all-chip-in-to), the state backed away from its commitment to fund mass transit more than two decades ago, and now after a generation off, riders are paying the price. And now, because the MTA operates 24/7, the only way to modernize the system would be to close the subway lines for weeks at a time to install the proper technology. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has been frank about the inconvenience, as he titled the massive summer repair project the [“summer of hell”](http://www.npr.org/2017/07/10/536352425/new-york-city-commuters-brace-for-summer-of-hell) for the disruptions it will cause riders. The inconvenience is one riders are already feeling. A [survey of 1,200 commuters](http://comptroller.nyc.gov/reports/the-human-cost-of-subway-delays-a-survey-of-new-york-city-riders/?utm_source=Media-All&utm_campaign=d0ef9b5b8c-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_06_23&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_7cd514b03e-d0ef9b5b8c-109196601) reveals the extent to which these repairs are disrupting their job performance and family obligations, causing a ripple effect on the [whole economy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/2016-FTA-Report-Close-the-Gap.pdf). Reliability is a huge factor when deciding which transportation mode to take. Making these upgrades all the more necessary. In addition to New York, the D.C. metro continues to move forward with much-needed repairs. According to an [article in The Washington Post](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/dr-gridlock/wp/2017/07/10/station-renaming-new-parking-fees-and-metros-other-ideas-to-find-new-cash/?utm_term=.a52d1c06fcac), WMATA is looking for ways to increase revenue, including by selling the naming rights to some stations to generate more funding for maintenance. While selling naming rights to some metro stations [has](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/tripping/wp/2017/07/10/metro-proposal-to-sell-naming-rights-to-stations-is-just-wrong/?utm_term=.8d5bfb7c5017) received some negative feedback, it may limit the need to ask for additional subsidies from the District, Maryland and Virginia. Meanwhile, the House Appropriation subcommittee on transportation approved legislation that would [cut funding for the DOT by half a billion dollars](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/341580-house-panel-approves-transportation-funding-cuts). The spending measure would eliminate the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant program, [which has been an effective funding mechanism](http://thehill.com/policy/transportation/341580-house-panel-approves-transportation-funding-cuts) for transportation projects of all modes, including transit. Whether it’s a major transit system or the rural bus service, our transportation network needs increased investment. 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Stories](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/artba-convenes-workshop-on-funding-success-stories/) **Published:** July 18, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ARTBA%20Convenes%20Workshop%20on%20Funding%20Success%20Stories&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ARTBA%20Convenes%20Workshop%20on%20Funding%20Success%20Stories "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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On July 12, the American Road and Transportation Builders Association ([ARTBA](http://www.artba.org/)) Transportation Investment Advocacy [Center](http://transportationinvestment.org/) held its fourth Annual National Workshop for State & Local Transportation Advocates, which explored how states are getting it done. The day-long [meeting](http://transportationinvestment.org/state-funding-advocacy-workshop/workshops/) featured transportation investment champions from around the country. Speakers shared best practices, policy strategies, and messaging techniques that ultimately resulted in increased investment in infrastructure, whether through legislation or ballot initiatives. The morning began with an overview of recent trends and initiatives in state and local transportation funding from Dr. Alison Premo Black, chief economist at ARTBA. Dr. Black noted that when infrastructure funding measures come before voters, these measures are typically approved by similar margins in both Democrat and Republican-leaning counties. She added that in 2016, voters approved $203 billion in transportation funding. However, Dr. Black acknowledged the frustration by some; while new funding is certainly welcome, most aren’t seeing additional construction commensurate with the increase in available dollars. One of the reasons for this may be because many states turned to bonding when they didn’t have revenue, said Dr. Black. As a result, bond repayment is taking up a bigger portion of the overall available transportation dollars. Following Dr. Black’s presentation, a roundtable of transportation funding advocates shared their takeaways from successful campaigns to increase state and local transportation funding. Anthony Attanasio, executive director of the Utility and Transportation Contractors Association of New Jersey, spoke to how a crisis forced his state leaders to act, ultimately creating an eight-year funding program including a 23-cent gas tax raise. Michael Quigley, executive director of California Alliance for Jobs, addressed the recent passage of CA SB1, which includes a 12-cent gas tax increase and a zero-emission-vehicle registration fee. Specifically, Mr. Quigley focused on the messaging strategy associated with SB1, explaining that his association and other stakeholders targeted specific lawmakers to urge them to pass the legislation largely through “geofencing” social media efforts. Dennis Faulkenberg, president of Appian in Indiana, and Jordan Marsh, vice president of South Carolina’s Alliance to Fix our Roads, also participated in the funding advocate roundtable, testifying to their respective states’ individual needs and the importance of stressing urgency to lawmakers who were unmotivated or unconvinced of the need to invest in infrastructure. The workshop continued with a keynote lunch, featuring lawmakers who advocated for legislation to increase transportation funding within their states. Tennessee Senate Speaker Pro Tem Jim Tracy (R-District 16), Louisiana Representative Kenneth Harvard (R-District 62), Montana State Representative Frank Garner (R-District 7), and Oregon State Representative Brad Whit (D-District 31) shared secrets of success with the ARTBA audience. All lawmakers stressed the importance of coalition building, both within the state legislature and among outside stakeholders, as well as the value in proactively involving potential opposition. Rep. Witt acknowledged that bike interests are especially powerful in his state, and he testified to the value of reaching out early and often to be sure the bike coalition felt involved in the development of the legislative package. ARTBA’s workshop also featured a panel titled “Past Transportation Funding Increases: Where are they Now,” where Seth Millican, executive director of the Georgia Transportation Alliance, and Nick Donohue, deputy secretary of Transportation at the Virginia Department of Transportation. Donohue spoke candidly about the difficulties Virginia had raising as much money as initially anticipated. In 2013, as part of a transportation package, the state switched from a 17.5 cent-per-gallon gas tax to a wholesale levy on gasoline. Because the cost of crude oil has plummeted in recent years, Virginia has lost millions of dollars in estimated revenue that was meant for infrastructure improvements across the state. ARTBA’s Workshop also featured perspectives from advocates exploring alternative transportation funding options and provided the audience with an overview of the current federal landscape as it relates to a potential large-scale infrastructure investment bill. The Workshop made it clear that while there continues to be progress at all levels of government, there are also lessons to be learned and important next steps to take to continue to advance the state of American infrastructure. 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Committee had a busy week, passing the remaining five (out of 12) appropriations bills this week, part of the process Congress goes through to create the federal budget. Here are the highlights of the bills affecting infrastructure and engineering. **Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies** - National Science Foundation is funded at $7.3 billion, which is $133 million below FY17. However, the Appropriators ignored President Trump’s proposal to cut $$672 million from the agency. - National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is funded at $19.9 billion, $219 million above the 2017 enacted level. - National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is funded at $865 million – $87 million below the fiscal year 2017 enacted level and $140 million above the President’s request. - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is funded at $4.97 billion, which is $710 million below the FY17 enacted level. The full details of the bill are available from the [Subcommittee.](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395000) **Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies** ASCE tracks and supports programs within the Department of Education, which support STEM Education. The bill funds the Department of Education at $66 billion, which is $2.4 billion below the fiscal year 2017 enacted level. Among specific programs: - Student Support and Academic Achievement State Grants – The bill includes $500 million, $100 million above the fiscal year 2017 level, for grants that provide flexible funds to states and school districts to expand access, improve school conditions, and increase the use of technology. This program includes provisions to support STEM programs. - The bill would eliminate the Supporting Effective Instruction State Grants Program, currently funded at more than $2 billion. The program is the largest federal funding stream that directly supports teachers, including training for STEM teachers. ASCE joined with the STEM Education Coalition in opposing the cut. Efforts by Rep David Price (D-NC) to restore funding were defeated. - The House bill would also eliminate the Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). ARPA-E, part of the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, advances high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that are too early for private-sector investment. The program has been a target of conservative lawmakers since its creation. However, the program enjoys support in the Senate. The full details of the bill are available from the [Subcommittee](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395026). **Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies** - S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is funded at $7.5 billion, a nearly $550 million decrease from FY17 enacted levels but $2 billion more than the President’s FY18 budget request. - Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program is funded at $1.143 billion, a $247 million decrease from FY17 enacted levels and $250 million less than the President’s FY18 budget request. Since 1987, the CWSRF has been providing states and localities with a critical source of funding for water infrastructure projects through low-interest loans. [ASCE wrote a letter to House Appropriations Chairman Rodney Frelinghuysen (R-NJ) and Ranking Member Nita Lowey (D-NY) ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/ASCE_CWSRF-Approps-Letter-of-Concern_7.18.17.pdf)expressing our concerns with cuts to the CWSRF program and urging them to fund it at the President’s requested level of $1.393 billion. The full details of the bill are available from the [Subcommittee](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395024). **Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies** Overall the T-HUD bill is $7.8 billion smaller than FY17’s version, with almost all of the reduction coming from DOT. - The bill eliminates the $500 million a year TIGER grant program, which was authorized as a part of the 2009 stimulus bill to support innovative projects that are difficult to fund through traditional federal programs. - Restricts funding for transit capital grants (i.e. New Starts, Small Starts) to projects with existing full funding grant agreements only. - ASCE opposed the elimination of TIGER and the reduction of transit capital grants. - The bill provides $900 million for the New York-New Jersey Gateway rail project. The full details of the bill are available from the [Subcommittee](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395016). The Senate is also working through its appropriations. Stay tuned for an update on how infrastructure fares in those deliberations. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Poll%20Says%20It%20All%E2%80%94Most%20Americans%20Willing%20to%20Pay%20More%20at%20the%20Pump&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")From structurally deficient bridges to dilapidated roads, there’s no question our infrastructure suffers from a lack of funding. Fortunately, most Americans are now willing to pay to reverse this trend. According to a recent [Bloomberg national poll](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-07-20/americans-say-they-back-higher-gas-tax-to-fix-crumbling-roads), 55 percent of Americans say they would pay a higher gas tax to repair their infrastructure. Even more significant is the bipartisan support, with 51 percent of Republicans and 67 percent of democrats supporting the increase. Popular support has been growing recently, yet U.S. Congress’ appetite still seems tepid toward an increase. Trump [told Bloomberg in May](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-05-01/trump-says-he-s-considering-moves-to-break-up-wall-street-banks) that increasing the gas tax is something that he would consider as long as the proceeds were dedicated to improving U.S. highways. States have already been leading the charge. In the past four years, [26 states ](https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2017-states-raise-gas-taxes/)have raised or updated their gas taxes, including eight this year.. The bipartisan interest goes beyond voters. Republicans have successfully lead efforts to raises taxes or fees for transportation in Indiana, South Carolina, Tennessee and Utah, and there are active proposals in at least nine other states to increase revenues. While these state increases have been helpful, they need a strong federal partner to help keep up with the maintenance demands. “With the federal help, we can do much more than we can on our own, obviously,” [said Alaska Governor Bill Walker](https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2017-states-raise-gas-taxes/), an independent who is seeking to triple his state fuel taxes over two years. As voters willingness to pay more for better roads grows, it presents Congress and the President an opportunity to #FixTheTrustFund through the long-term, sustainable funding the gas tax provides. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Approves%20Transportation%20Spending%20Bill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F07%2Fsenate-seal.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Approves%20Transportation%20Spending%20Bill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriations%20Committee%20Approves%20Transportation%20Spending%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Senate Committee on Appropriations [passed a bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/majority/committee-advances-fy2018-transportation-hud-appropriations-bill) yesterday to fund the Departments of Transportation and Housing and Urban Development for fiscal year 2018 (which according to the federal calendar begins October 1). The bill funds the Department of Transportation (DOT) at $79.6 billion for FY18 (a $1.5 billion increase from FY17). That total is $1.1 billion more than the House version of the bill and $3.6 billion more than the Trump Administration’s budget request. The bill was particularly notable on the aviation front, including a $250 million increase in funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and an increase of the cap on the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) for the originating airport from $4.50 to $8.50. AIP is an aviation infrastructure-focused grant program paid for out of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources. PFCs are fees airports can collect from departing passengers and use to fund federally-approved capital projects. The current $4.50 PFC cap has not been changed since 2000 and inflation and increased construction costs have cut its real value by more than half. As a result, many airports have substantial infrastructure needs they cannot afford to address, evident in the “D” grade Aviation received in the *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*. The bill would require large hub airports that raise their PFC beyond the current cap of $4.50 to give up all their AIP funding (large hubs previously agreed to give up 75% of the AIP money in exchange for raising their PFC to the current cap of $4.50). Increasing both AIP funding and the cap on the PFC are solutions named in the Report Card to improve the grade, so airports of all sizes can address their infrastructure needs*.* Other things of note in the Senate FY18 transportation-housing (T-HUD) appropriations bill: - Highways and transit receive the full amount of funding from the Highway Trust Fund promised to them in the FAST Act ($44.234 billion for highways and $9.733 for transit). - The TIGER grant program is funded at $550 million, a $50 million increase from FY17. The Trump Administration had proposed ending the program, which was originally created by the 2009 stimulus bill to support innovative projects that are difficult to fund through traditional federal programs. - The Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Capital Investment Grant program is funded at $2.133 billion, which $280 million below FY17 levels. This was another program the Trump Administration targeted for cuts, proposing to limit FY18 spending to only projects with a full funding grant agreement (i.e. funding already approved projects but not accepting new projects). The Senate again largely ignored those proposed cuts. - Amtrak also received the full amount of funding authorized by the FAST Act ($358.4 million for the Northeast Corridor and $1.242 billion for the National Network). The Trump Administration had proposed cutting funding for Amtrak in half and ending subsidies for the long-distance National Network routes (which would likely lead to their shuttering). - The Federal Railroad Administration’s new grant programs that were authorized by the FAST Act (Consolidated Rail Grants, Good Repair Partnership Grants, and Restoration/Enhancement Grants) are funded at $123.5 million, far less than their authorized level of $425 million. - The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) NextGen modernization program received $1.1 billion. - The FAA’s Essential Air Service program is funded at $155 million. The program subsidizes flights to 175 rural communities that would otherwise not have regular air service. The White House had proposed eliminating the funding. - After adopting amendments from Sens. Hoeven (R-ND) and Shaheen (D-NH), the bill modifies restrictions on truck weights for vehicles travelling on interstates in North Dakota and New Hampshire. The T-HUD bill (H.R. 3353) [passed by the House last week](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-infrastructure-science-programs-receive-house-appropriations/) is $1.1 billion smaller than its Senate counterpart, eliminates funding for the TIGER grant program, and cuts funding for the transit capital grant program so only projects with full funding grant agreements can receive funds (both proposals were a part of the President’s budget request). However, the House bill provides $900 million for the New York-New Jersey Gateway Program, a $29 billion set of Amtrak and transit projects including a badly needed new $11 billion tunnel under the Hudson River. The Senate bill has no specific set-aside for the Gateway Program. Both T-HUD bills will now need to be voted on by their respective chambers before being conferenced so the two bodies can agree on bill language before taking final votes and sending a bill to the President’s desk. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocating%20on%20the%20Hill%20for%20Funding%20of%20Critical%20Dam%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")In an effort to raise the [Dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) grade, which received a “D” in the *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*, ASCE and the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) spent two days on Capitol Hill last week advocating for funding the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program and the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) – programs that were recommended in the 2013 Report Card. The High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program was authorized in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act of 2016 and provides federal grant assistance for the rehabilitation, repair, or removal of non-federal high hazard potential dams. This program gives states and localities the tools they need to fix or decommission our nation’s most hazardous dams, and ultimately, the ability to protect the public health and safety of their communities. Funding the program is a recommendation to raise the grade in the 2017 Report Card. High hazard potential dams are those whose failure would result in the loss of life, and the number of them in the nation is growing rapidly because of continued population growth and development below dams. In fact, the number of high hazard potential dams increased from 10,213 dams in 2005 to 15,500 in 2015 – a growth of nearly 52% in just a decade. It is estimated that an investment of nearly $22 billion is needed to repair aging high hazard potential dams. Unfortunately, the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program has not yet received any appropriations, and until Congress funds this critical program, dam owners will not be able to access the resources they need to repair, upgrade, or decommission these high hazard potential dams. Three decades ago, Congress passed the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP), which provides state dam safety agencies with federal grant assistance to be used for training state dam safety engineers, research, and for the creation of a National Inventory of Dams (NID). Although the NDSP has only been funded at slightly over $9 million a year out of its authorized yearly amount of $13.9 million a year, it has been incredibly successfully in identifying the age and condition of our nation’s dams. We now know that the average age of our nation’s dams is 56 years old, and by 2025, seven out of 10 dams in the U.S. will be over 50 years old. ASDSO estimates that the combined total cost to rehabilitate the nation’s non-federal and federal dams exceeds $64 billion. Earlier this year, Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/FY18-High-Hazard-Potential-Dams-Approps-Signed-5.30.17.pdf) – along with 14 other Senators – to the Senate Appropriations Committee asking them to fully fund the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program. ASCE supported this effort and continues to urge Congress to fund both the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program at is fully authorized amount of $10 million in Fiscal Years 2017 and 2018 and the National Dam Safety Program at its fully authorized amount of $13.9 million a year. These programs serve an important function in improving public safety and reducing and mitigating risk of dam failure in our nation. Join in the ask for funding of the rehabilitation program by [sending a letter to your Members of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=307175). [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Advocating%20on%20the%20Hill%20for%20Funding%20of%20Critical%20Dam%20Programs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Advocating%20on%20the%20Hill%20for%20Funding%20of%20Critical%20Dam%20Programs "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Advocating%20on%20the%20Hill%20for%20Funding%20of%20Critical%20Dam%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** appropriations, congress, dams, infrastructure, infrastructure report card, senate --- ### [New Report Helps State Legislators Better Understand P3s](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-helps-state-legislators-better-understand-p3s/) **Published:** August 8, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Report%20Helps%20State%20Legislators%20Better%20Understand%20P3s&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Report%20Helps%20State%20Legislators%20Better%20Understand%20P3s "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on 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recognized and tapped tool in the toolbox to fund infrastructure investments. While the early adopter states have many P3 ventures under their belts, others are still navigating the process of how to structure an effective P3. To help further the conversation, the National Conference of State Legislatures released [P3 Infrastructure Delivery: Principles for State Legislatures](http://www.ncsl.org/Portals/1/documents/transportation/P3_Infrastructure_080117.pdf) during its annual conference on Monday in Boston. P3s are not a one-size-fits-all model. This can make learning and executing a P3 project more challenging, as each one is unique. In addition to the unique aspects of each project, each state’s laws vary as well, ranging from no authorizing legislation to allowing for P3s in transportation and other sectors. To help state legislators better understand the range of options and flexibility in funding a project using a P3, the report details the range of the private role from the design-build to build-operate-transfer approaches. NCSL also offers nine principles for state legislators when creating a P3. These were released as part of the P3 toolkit, and the new report takes them a step further by offering examples of how each principle has played out in a P3 in the U.S. The principles are: - PRINCIPLE 1: Be informed. State decision makers need access to fact-based information that supports sound decisions. NCSL has continuously sought to provide state legislators with fact-based, un-biased and relevant policy information on P3s. - PRINCIPLE 2: Separate the debates. Debates about the P3 approach should be distinct from issues such as tolling, taxes or specific deals. - PRINCIPLE 3: Consider the public interest for all stakeholders. State legislators will want to consider how to protect the public interest throughout the P3 process. - PRINCIPLE 4: Involve and educate stakeholders. Stakeholder involvement helps protect the public interest, gain support and mitigate political risk. - PRINCIPLE 5: Take a long-term perspective. State legislators will want to approach P3 decisions with the long-term impacts in mind. - PRINCIPLE 6: Let infrastructure needs drive P3 projects—not the other way around. P3s should be pursued to support a state’s infrastructure needs and public benefit, not just to raise revenue. - PRINCIPLE 7: Support comprehensive project analyses. Before pursuing a P3, it should be shown to be a better option than traditional project delivery. - PRINCIPLE 8: Be clear about the financial issues. States will want to carefully assess financial goals, an asset’s value and how to spend any proceeds. - PRINCIPLE 9: Set good ground rules for bidding and negotiations. Legislation should promote fairness, clarity and transparency in the procurement process. These guidelines are helpful to legislators, who must quickly understand complex policy issues to make decisions. [Read the report](http://www.ncsl.org/Portals/1/documents/transportation/P3_Infrastructure_080117.pdf) to further explore the findings and lessons on how a public-private partnership can be a valuable and effective tool to fund infrastructure. *The report was released as a product of [the NCSL Foundation Partnership for Multi-Sector Public-Private Partnerships](http://www.ncsl.org/research/transportation/multi-sector-public-private-partnerships.aspx), of which ASCE is a member.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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**Tags:** Funding, infrastructure investment, investment, public-private partnership, states --- ### [President Trump Release Executive Order on Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-release-executive-order-on-infrastructure/) **Published:** August 16, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=President%20Trump%20Release%20Executive%20Order%20on%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=President%20Trump%20Release%20Executive%20Order%20on%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Release%20Executive%20Order%20on%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, President Trump signed an executive order (EO) on infrastructure permitting, titled [Presidential Executive Order on Establishing Discipline and Accountability in the Environmental Review and Permitting Process for Infrastructure.](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/08/15/presidential-executive-order-establishing-discipline-and-accountability) The EO aims to reduce permitting time, which in the past took an average of seven years, and will now be condensed into an average of two years, according to the President’s remarks. The President made the announcement alongside related cabinet members: Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, Department of Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, and Director of the Office of Management and Budget Mick Mulvaney. During his remarks, the President [displayed a long flowchart that represented the old process](https://www.usnews.com/news/politics/articles/2017-08-15/trump-signs-order-to-speed-infrastructure-construction) of approvals of the project, followed by a new, significantly shorter flowchart. The Order achieves the expedited process in part by having one agency take the lead on each project’s approval process and by establishing a review process that holds agencies accountable. The 2017 Infrastructure Report Card [recommends streamlining permitting as one way to improve our nation’s infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/leadership-planning/). [ASCE’s Public Policy Statement on the Regulatory Process for Infrastructure Development](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-427---regulatory-process-for-infrastructure-development/) similarly aligns with much of what is in the EO, including a single administrative processing/permitting agency to shorten and improve the approval process and improve inter-agency collaboration. However, improving this process cannot alone bring the grade up from its current ‘D+.’ To fully address our infrastructure needs,[ increased investment is needed to close the infrastructure gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/). ASCE released a [statement](http://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=25253) on the EO, which also notes that at this time it is unclear if the environment will be effectively safeguarded in the new process. The EO also repealed President Obama’s Executive Order 13690, the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS), which requires that any new federally funded infrastructure projects in a flood plain must first and foremost consider and mitigate flood disaster risk. It is designed to end the costly and unsustainable cycle of relying on disaster relief funds to rebuild after flooding events. As advocates for policies that reduce risk, protect the health of the public, and maximize the public interest – including cost considerations and resilient designs – ASCE has been supportive of the FFRMS. This pragmatic approach, which gives federal agencies the flexibility to use one of three standards for establishing the flood elevation of new infrastructure projects, ensures that taxpayer dollars are responsibly spent while also safeguarding public health. In [October 2016](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/ASCE-FEMA-FFRMS-FINAL.pdf), ASCE submitted formal comments to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in response to FEMA’s proposed rule to implement the FFRMS. In [March 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/final_letter-to-WH-re-FFRMS-March-2017.pdf) and [June 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/stakeholder_FFRMS_letter_to_WH_6.19.17.pdf), ASCE, along with a coalition of organizations, sent letters to the White House in support of the FFRMS. While improving the permitting process can benefit our nation, we ultimately need increased investment into projects that are a benefit to Americans and the economy. The President remarked he believes there is still bipartisan interest on passing a large infrastructure package, though the full details of such a bill are yet to be seen. 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Both the House and the Senate hit the ground running. The Senate passed a Hurricane Harvey relief package that tagged on many of the imminent items, including raising the debt ceiling, funding the government through a Continuing Resolution (CR) through December 8, and extending the National Flood Insurance Program for three months. The House, which had previously passed a bill solely focused on the relief package, passed the Senate’s bill on Friday morning. The $15.25 billion disaster aid package includes $7.4 billion for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Disaster Relief Fund (DRF); $7.4 billion in emergency funding for Community Development Block Grants (CDBG); and $450 million for the Small Business Administration Disaster Loan program. The bill is expected to be signed by President Trump quickly. Clearing many of these items, both chambers still have much more business to attend to before the end of the month, and additional work looms before the end of the year in light of the new extensions through December. Here are the infrastructure-related to-dos: Fiscal Year 2018 Appropriations The appropriations process involves Congress working through 12 different funding packages that together make up the federal government’s budget for a year. So far, none of the bills have received final approval, which is why Congress elected to pass a CR, giving them an additional two months to work through appropriations. This week, the House began consideration of H.R. 3354, “The Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act,” which combines eight of the 12 in to a single bill. Specifically, H.R. 3354 would combine the following bills: - H.R. 3354, Interior and Environment - H.R. 3268, Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food & Drug Administration - H.R. 3267, Commerce, Justice, and Science (includes NASA, NOAA) - H.R. 3280, Financial Services and General Government - H.R. 3355, Homeland Security - H.R. 3358, Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education - H.R. 3362, State and Foreign Operations - H.R. 3353, Transportation, Housing & Urban Development While considering the FY18 Interior and Environment portion of the larger appropriations bill this week, Congressman John Katko (R-NY) offered an amendment to restore $250 million to the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program. Nearly 240 million Americans – 76% of the population – rely on the nation’s 14,748 treatment plants for wastewater sanitation. We are concerned that a decrease in funding for the CWSRF program would have a negative impact on wastewater treatment plants in our nation, putting public health and the environment at great risk. ASCE Key Contacts were notified and sprang into action contacting their Members of Congress. Our members’ hard work paid off, and the amendment passed by voice vote. On July 27, the House passed H.R. 3219, the “Make America Secure Appropriations Act, 2018,” which combined the other four regular appropriations bills: - H.R. 3219, Defense - H.R. 3266, Energy and Water - H.R. 3162, Legislative Branch - H.R. 2998, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Meanwhile, on the other side of the Hill, the Senate Appropriations Committee has approved eight of the 12 bills, including the State and Foreign Operations appropriations bill; the Labor, Health & Human Services, and Education appropriations bill; the Legislative Branch appropriations bill; the Transportation, Housing & Urban Development appropriations bill; the Commerce, Justice, and Science appropriations bill; the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs appropriations bill; the Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food & Drug Administration appropriations bill; and the Energy and Water Development appropriations bill. Additional markups are scheduled in the coming weeks. FAA Reauthorization The current FAA bill, which has had a few short-term extensions in the past year, is set to expire on September 30. Earlier this summer, both the House and Senate worked on FAA reauthorization bills, but neither bill has made it to the respective floors for a vote. A part of the hold-up has been a controversial policy to privatize Air Traffic Control; this provision is included in the House bill but not the Senate version. A vote on the House bill is expected during the week of September 13. 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Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) Reauthorization Act S.1768](https://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/7/0/70e723a9-8cca-4d16-8117-fc36e0fdd975/5D93DE0687F3B8E79DD31AF402031B3E.nehrp-final-for-introduction-09-06-2017.pdf?), a bill to reauthorize the national program to improve the nation’s earthquake preparedness, which was last passed by Congress in 2004. NEHRP plays an important role in preparing earthquake-prone communities for seismic events. First created in 1977, NEHRP coordinates federal research to understand and mitigate the impact of earthquakes and is made up of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Science Foundation, and can draw on the expertise of other federal and state agencies. Through [NEHRP](http://nehrp.gov/), the federal government has engaged in seismic monitoring, mapping, research, testing, engineering and related reference materials for building code development, mitigation, and emergency preparedness. NEHRP has served as the backbone for protecting U.S. citizens, their property and the national economy from the devastating effects of large earthquakes. Although NEHRP is well known for its research programs, it is also the source for hundreds of new technologies, maps, design techniques, and standards that are used by design professionals every day to mitigate risks and save lives, protect property, and reduce adverse economic impacts. NEHRP has helped make both critical infrastructure, like bridges and airports, and other infrastructure like buildings, able to better withstand earthquakes. Last reauthorized in 2004, the program underwent some of the most significant changes in its history with strong support and contributions from ASCE and others in the earthquake risk reduction community. However, this authorization expired in October of 2009. Since then, despite the best efforts of ASCE and our colleagues, Congress has failed to act to reauthorize the program. The efforts to reauthorize the program has rarely received opposition, but often fell victim to unrelated partisan conflicts and a lack of leadership among Congressional leaders. [As drafted by Senators Feinstein and Murkowski](https://www.feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?id=F1E088C5-2208-4F22-A7DC-C8279DC5F9B1), the legislation would permanently reauthorize NEHRP. Previous versions provided for 5-year authorizations, the last of which was in 2004, meaning the program has been operating without authorization since 2009. Other changes to the program include: emphasizing the continued development of earthquake early warning systems; requiring the production of maps showing active faults and folds, liquefaction susceptibility and other hazards that can be induced by an earthquake; enhancing coordination among federal agencies, and with state agencies; and directs the completion of a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s earthquake risk reduction progress, as well as remaining areas that require more funding. ASCE, along with others in the earthquake community including the Association of American State Geologists, the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute, the Geological Society of America, the National Council of Structural Engineers Associations, the National Emergency Management Association, and the Seismological Society of America worked with Senators Feinstein and Murkowski in drafting the legislation and have endorsed it. You can help in getting NEHRP reauthorized by contacting your Senators [to urge them to lend their support to the NEHRP program.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=393553&utm_campaign=GR-2017-09-08-TWiW+Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Earthquake%20Program%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Earthquake%20Program%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Earthquake%20Program%20Bill%20Introduced%20in%20Senate&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alaska, California, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, earthquakes --- ### [ASCE Supports Legislation to Reduce Deferred Maintenance Backlog at National Parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-legislation-to-reduce-deferred-maintenance-backlog-at-national-parks/) **Published:** September 14, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Supports%20Legislation%20to%20Reduce%20Deferred%20Maintenance%20Backlog%20at%20National%20Parks&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report *Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) gave our nation’s public parks a grade of “D+.” Despite the growing popularity of public parks and lands, chronic underfunding of our parks infrastructure continues to plague the system. The National Park Service’s (NPS) 2016 centennial anniversary generated a new wave of excitement for our nation’s public parks. In fact, a record-breaking [331 million people spent an estimated $18.4 billion in local gateway regions](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm) while visiting National Parks in 2016, a 7 percent increase in the number of visitors compared to 2015. The 2016 visitor spending supported a total of 318,000 thousand jobs and generated $34.9 billion for the U.S. economy. Unfortunately, investments in our public parks’ infrastructure remains woefully inadequate, and the NPS now has a deferred maintenance backlog of nearly $12 billion, which includes $6 billion for roads, bridges, tunnels, and parking lots and $6 billion for non-transportation related projects such as eroding trails, visitor facilities, and water and electrical systems. The NPS manages more than 75,000 constructed assets, and over 41,000 of them – more than half – are in need of repair. This summer, the House Committee on Appropriations’ Fiscal Year 2018 Interior and Environment spending bill allocated $2.9 billion for the NPS, a decrease of $64 million from FY17 enacted levels. President Trump’s FY18 budget request included $2.6 billion for the NPS, including terminating over 1,200 full time employees – a total decrease of $296 million from FY17 enacted levels. This week, ASCE was proud to sign on as a supporting organization of the National Park Service Legacy Act, a bill that has bipartisan support in both the House and the Senate ([H.R. 2584](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2584), [S. 751](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/751)). This legislation, which was introduced in the Senate by Senators [Mark Warner (D-VA)](https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ContentRecord_id=6528A524-73AE-4D39-9F4D-3964345EFE4E) and Rob Portman (R-OH) and in the House by Representatives [Will Hurd (R-TX)](https://hurd.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/lawmakers-introduce-bill-jump-start-overdue-maintenance-projects), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Derek Kilmer (D-WA), and Colleen Hanabusa (D-HI), would establish a federal fund to reduce the deferred maintenance infrastructure backlog at our National Parks. The fund would be financed using existing revenues the government collects in royalties from the onshore and offshore production of oil, gas, coal, and other mineral operations. The bill also promotes public-private partnerships by allowing the NPS to accept qualified private donations. Access to and investment in our public parks remains a bedrock of American society and a critical category within ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*. As President Theodore Roosevelt – the founder of the U.S. Forest Service and often referred to as the father of public lands conservation – said “There is a delight in the hardy life of the open. There are no words that can tell the hidden spirit of the wilderness that can reveal its mystery, its melancholy and its charm. The nation behaves well if it treats the natural resources as assets which it must turn over to the next generation increased and not impaired in value.” On September 27, the Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks held a hearing entitled “[Encouraging the Next Generation to Visit National Parks](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings-and-business-meetings?ID=809399D2-4479-4B2A-B5E4-58A64E358B9B).” Hearing witnesses included Lena McDowall, the Deputy Director for Management and Administration at the National Park Service and Will Shafroth, President and CEO of the National Park Foundation, among others[. ASCE submitted a statement for the record](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record_ENR-National-Parks-Hearing_9.27.17.pdf) affirming the critical role that public parks play in the lives of Americans and the need for Congress to address the growing $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog at the National Park Service. The statement also provided a suite of recommendations from our 2017 Infrastructure Report card for how to make strategic, robust, and sustained investments in parks infrastructure to ensure these systems are safe, accessible, and adequately funded for future generations. Add your voice to this conversation by [sending a message ](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=394033)to your Member of Congress asking them to support the National Park Service Legacy Act. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Supports%20Legislation%20to%20Reduce%20Deferred%20Maintenance%20Backlog%20at%20National%20Parks&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Public Parks **Tags:** deferred maintenance, National Parks, public parks --- ### [Texas Report Card Gives Infrastructure a “C-“](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/texas-report-card-gives-infrastructure-a-c/) **Published:** September 20, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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the past few weeks following Hurricane Harvey. Today, weeks the cities of Port Aransas and Rockport were destroyed and Houston and South Texas flooded, the Texas section of the ASCE released the R[eport Card for Texas’ Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/texas/), and the report finds there is work to be done and an opportunity to modernize the state’s infrastructure. In the seven categories of infrastructure that were evaluated (including aviation, bridges, dams, highways and roads, flood control, drinking water, and waste water) the highest mark received was a “B” for bridges, followed by aviation with a “B-.” The five remaining categories all received grades in the “D” range including Dams, Drinking Water, Flood Control, Highways and Roads, and Wastewater. These grades indicate that though bridges and aviation infrastructure is adequate for now, the remainder of the infrastructure is in poor condition with a strong risk of failure and all of the current infrastructure needs investment. One of the most pressing needs is the rapid projected population growth estimating Texas to grow in the next 50 years, from 29.5 million in 2020 to more than 51 million by 2070. This poses major risks and strains on the water utilities of the region, as well as transportation infrastructure. Even now, each commuter in Texas metro regions is paying an extra $890 on average per year due to congested roadways. Furthermore, there is a lack of a central authority over flood preparation, floodplain management and flood prevention which resulted in the grade of “D” for flood control. Along with analysis of the issue that is facing Texas infrastructure, the Report Card offers solutions on how best to resolve the immediate and impending issues. 1. Infrastructure needs increased, long-term, consistent state and local level investment. 2. Leaders from all levels of government, business, labor, and nonprofit organizations must come together to ensure all investments are spent wisely. 3. Civil engineers must prepare for the future by utilizing new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our state’s infrastructure is more resilient and sustainable. 4. When considering land use planning at the local level, the function of existing and new infrastructure must maintain the balance between the built and natural environments now and into the future. [Read the full Report Card and dive into the category-specific solutions on the Texas page](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/texas/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Texas%20Report%20Card%20Gives%20Infrastructure%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9C&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Roads, Texas, Wastewater **Tags:** Hurricane Harvey, texas --- ### [The Importance of Resiliency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-importance-of-resiliency/) **Published:** September 27, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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These events coincided with the annual National Preparedness Month. The message of the month is it is not a question of if a natural disaster will affect your community, but rather, when? The unpreventable, and often unpredictable, aspect of natural disasters is what strikes fear into the hearts of the citizens of towns which they affect. But our technology is advancing, allowing us to be better prepared, including by building more resilient infrastructure. T[he National Institute of Standards and Technology has a six-step process to planning for community resilience](https://www.nist.gov/featured-stories/helping-build-nation-resilient-communities). 1. Form a collaborative planning team 2. Understand the situation - Social Dimensions - Build Environment - Link Social Functions and Built Environment 3. Determine goals and objectives 4. Develop a plan 5. Prepare, review, and approve a plan 6. Implement and maintain the plan The ASCE 2017 Report Card lists the[ infrastructure Game Changers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/gamechangers), the new technologies or systems of implementation that are changing the way we view infrastructure itself, and how we build it. With a focus on resiliency, places like the San Francisco Airport (SFO) are leading the way in the effort to make our nation’s infrastructure more prepared for a natural disaster. After the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake shut down the air traffic control tower at the SFO, the need for resilient infrastructure was clear to airport administrators, including in the design of SFO’s newly completed air traffic control tower. The new tower is designed to withstand a 7.5 magnitude earthquake, and features an innovative post-tensioning system that can clamp the structure back into place during a seismic event. This technology, combined with a reinforced concrete core and 40,000-pound steel damper blocks that protect the tower from wind, makes the structure a model of resilient engineering and ensures that the San Francisco International Airport will be safer and more reliable due to a control tower that stays in control even after an earthquake. It is time to stop building for now, and start designing for the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Importance%20of%20Resiliency&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Florida, News, Save America's Infrastructure, Texas **Tags:** earthquakes, hurricanes, NIST, resilience --- ### [3M Meeting Focuses Washington on AV Preparation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/3m-meeting-focuses-washington-on-innovation/) **Published:** September 28, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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industry is laser-focused on getting us there sooner rather than later. As private industry innovates, decision-makers in Washington are grappling with how best to regulate the autonomous vehicle (AV) landscape while retaining an emphasis on both safety and innovation. To spur conversation and help stakeholders understand the tasks ahead, 3M convened an event in Washington titled “Paving the Way for the Connected Roads of Tomorrow.” The morning brought together Chairman John Thune (R-SD) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) from the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Senate Committee with jurisdiction over automated-vehicle legislation. In his remarks, Senator Thune referenced [H.R. 3388](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/3388/text), the SELF DRIVE Act, a House Energy and Commerce Committee bill that sets a number of governing regulations and minimum safety standards as they relate to autonomous vehicles. The U.S. House Committee voted 54-0 on July 27 to advance the legislation to the House floor. The Senate, meanwhile, has released a set of bipartisan [principles](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2017/6/enators-release-bipartisan-principles-for-self-driving-vehicles-legislation) for legislating self-driving vehicles, which prioritize safety, continue to promote innovation, and reinforce separate federal and state roles in regulating the industry. Following Senator Thune’s remarks, 3M convened a panel to explore, among other items, the challenges of relying on existing infrastructure to deploy new AV technologies. The panel featured David Kelly, Principal and CEO of Storm King Strategies and Former Acting Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Cherilyn Pascoe, Professional Staff Member and Investigator at the Commerce Committee, and Greg Rogers, Policy Analyst & Assistant Editor at the Eno Center on Transportation. Panelists emphasized that while many in Washington and elsewhere want to focus on “level four and five automation” – i.e. cars that are fully autonomous – that world is still decades off, and vehicles with some assisted-driving capabilities need to be accommodated more immediately. Tomorrow’s cars will need to need standardized road markings and signage, requiring investment in infrastructure from all levels of government. Mr. Rogers from Eno emphasized that funding to accommodate AVs should come in part from increases in the gas tax, and applauded the states that have already acted. Mr. Kelly, formally of NHTSA, reminded the audience that “you can’t infrastructure your way to safety,” and urged audience members to continue driver behavior campaigns as AV technologies continue to be rolled out. Finally, panelists noted that there is already differing AV terminology among the 50 states, and that the federal government should work towards providing standardized definitions in the coming years to avoid confusion and patchwork regulations. Senator Klobuchar offered remarks at the close of the event by touting Minnesota’s contributions to the AV landscape. She thanked 3M for taking a leading role in the industry and emphasized the Senate Commerce Committee remains committed to introducing and passing legislation aimed at providing federal guidance for automated vehicles. 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email")This month marks the 24th anniversary of the federal gas tax’s outdated 18.4-cent rate enacted on October 1st, 1993. First established in 1932, the gas tax goes toward the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) – the federal fund that pays for bridges, roads, and transit. The federal gas tax rate has been raised numerous times since its founding, but is nearly a quarter century old and inflation has cut its real value by 40%. Failure to update our federal gas tax has led to inadequate support of the HTF, poor surface transportation infrastructure, and a lack of economic competitiveness. The U.S. Department of Transportation projects that the cumulative shortfall, under the current 10-year window, in the HTF highway and mass transit accounts will be over $170 billion. We are funding our 2017 transportation infrastructure with 1993 dollars and failure to modernize the federal gas tax has created a mediocre transportation infrastructure. In the American Society of Civil Engineers’ (ASCE) 2017 *Infrastructure Report Card*, our bridges, rail, road, and transit received grades of C+, D, and D- respectively. These subpar grades are a result of our dated federal gas tax and inability to properly fund the HTF and our current transportation infrastructure needs. Continued underinvestment of the HTF will cause our transportation infrastructure to further degrade, . Simply put, we will be unable to compete in the ever-changing, 21st century global marketplace. ASCE has and will continue to urge Congress to pass legislation increasing our federal gas tax and provide a sustainable, long-term funding solution for surface transportation infrastructure funding. There’s no need for Congress to wait until the FAST Act is set to expire to deal with this looming issue. Historically the gas tax was increased during tax reform, including by Presidents Reagan and Clinton. As this Congress works on new tax reform legislation it too has the opportunity to #FixTheTrustFund as part of this package. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Outdated%20Gas%20Tax%20Rate%20Still%20Propping%20Up%20America%E2%80%99s%20Transportation%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [Bipartisan Legislation Introduced in the House and Senate to Enhance Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-legislation-introduced-in-the-house-and-senate-to-enhance-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** October 24, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Bipartisan%20Legislation%20Introduced%20in%20the%20House%20and%20Senate%20to%20Enhance%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Move America Act, bipartisan legislation has been introduced in the House and Senate introduced ([H.R. 3912](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/3912) and [S. 1229](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1229)) to enhance America’s infrastructure by strengthening public-private partnerships. ASCE supports the legislation and has been working to advance it in both the House and Senate. The [House bill](https://walorski.house.gov/move-america-act/) was introduced this October by Congresswoman Jackie Walorski (R-IN), Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney (D-NY). The [Senate bill](https://www.hoeven.senate.gov/news/news-releases/hoeven-wyden-reintroduce-move-america-act) was reintroduced this May by Senator John Hoeven (R-ND) and Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card,* which graded our nation’s cumulative infrastructure a “D+.” The Report Card also found that to close our nation’s $2 trillion 10-year investment gap, meet future needs, and restore our global competitive advantage, [we must increase investment from all levels of government and the private sector from 2.5 percent to 3.5 percent of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/). By expanding private activity bonds and infrastructure tax credits, the Move America Act would generate billions of dollars in much needed funds and provide state/local governments the required flexibility to finance needed infrastructure projects. The Move America Act would expand tax-exempt private activity bonds, develop an infrastructure tax credit and, through private-public partnerships, support infrastructure project funding. Project costs would be lowered and provide state/local governments the required flexibility to finance needed infrastructure projects. Private capital is attracted through Move America Bonds and Tax Credits. States along with private entities issue tax-exempt Move America Bonds that are allocated based on state population size. These bonds provide states with flexible ownership and management arrangements, five-year carry-over for unused bonds, and favorable tax treatment including an exemption from the Alternative Minimum Tax. Move America Tax Credits provide smaller states the ability to trade in some or all of their bond allocation for federal tax credits at a 25 percent rate. Credits can be used towards direct project investment or capitalizing state infrastructure banks. Airports; rural broadband; mass transit; railroads; water furnishing facilities; sewage; docks and wharves; flood diversions; inland waterways; and certain transportation infrastructure such as roads and bridges would qualify to receive funding. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, the tools provided by the Move America Act would leverage $8 billion in federal investment into $226 billion worth of bond authority over the next decade or up to $56 billion in tax credits over 10 years. We support this legislation and strongly urge Congress to act and find ways to invest in our infrastructure. We will be following this legislation closely, and keep you apprised of the latest developments. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Bipartisan%20Legislation%20Introduced%20in%20the%20House%20and%20Senate%20to%20Enhance%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, News, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit --- ### [GAO Examines Economic Impact of Extreme Weather Events](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gao-examines-economic-impact-of-extreme-weather-events/) **Published:** October 25, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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*CLIMATE CHANGE: Information on Potential Economic Effects Could Help Guide Federal Efforts to Reduce Fiscal Exposure,* a report detailing the cost to the federal government of climate-related impacts that have already occurred, and how that cost is expected to rise. Over the last decade, extreme weather and fire events have cost the federal government over $350 billion, and a vast majority of these costs are from damage to the nation’s infrastructure. The GAO reviewed the potential economic effects of climate change and risks to the federal government in three aspects: the methods used to estimate the potential economic effects; what is known about these effects; and the extent to which information about these effects could inform efforts to manage climate risks across the federal government. As shown in the map below, which was created by GOA to accompany the report, many of the economic costs that directly impact infrastructure include water supply and demand, increased wildfires, increased energy demand, increased road damage, increased damage to urban drainage systems, and increased damage to coastal infrastructure.![US map showing projected climate-change costs (red) and benefits (blue), with dashed labels for road damage, heat mortality, wildfires, and coastal damage.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/map-400x262.png "map") With the conclusion of the report, the GAO recommended that the Executive Office of the President use the information provided on potential economic effects to help identify significant climate risks and craft appropriate federal responses. This recommendation aligns with the Infrastructure Report Card’s proposed solutions to increase resilience and sustainability of our infrastructure to ensure it’s built for the future. We are already feeling the economic drag of inadequate infrastructure, and this report further underscores the need to improve our infrastructure and make strategic decisions when making these investments to ensure their longevity. One opportunity the federal government has to address this is to establish a federal flood risk management standard to mitigate the impacts of flooding on our nation’s infrastructure. As advocates for policies that reduce risk, protect the health of the public, and maximize the public interest – including cost considerations and resilient designs – ASCE has been supportive of efforts that achieve this goal, specifically the Obama-era Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) that was rescinded by President Trump through an Executive Order (EO) on August 15, 2017. The FFRMS required that any new federally funded infrastructure projects in a flood plain must first and foremost consider and mitigate flood disaster risk. It was designed to end the costly and unsustainable cycle of relying on disaster relief funds to rebuild after flooding events. This pragmatic approach, which gave federal agencies the flexibility to use one of three standards for establishing the flood elevation of new infrastructure projects, ensured that taxpayer dollars were responsibly spent while also safeguarding public health. In [October 2016](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/ASCE-FEMA-FFRMS-FINAL.pdf) and September 2017, ASCE submitted [formal comments ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/ASCE-Comments-to-TVA-FFRMS_9.6.17.pdf)to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in response to the respective agencies’ proposed rules to implement the FFRMS. In [March 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/final_letter-to-WH-re-FFRMS-March-2017.pdf), [June 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/stakeholder_FFRMS_letter_to_WH_6.19.17.pdf), and September 2017, ASCE, along with a coalition of organizations, sent letters to the White House in support of a federal flood standard. Earlier this month, Congressman Mark Sanford (R-SC) led a bipartisan congressional [letter](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/QQ7WBwUvx1mHke?domain=app.message.asce.org) to the Administration asking them to develop a strong federal flood standard to mitigate the impacts of flooding on our nation’s infrastructure. Last week, the Attorney Generals of New York, California, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, and the District of Columbia led a bipartisan [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/State-AGs-letter-to-Congress_FFRMS_10.18.17.pdf) to Congress urging them, too, to enact an updated federal flood standard. Read the full GAO report [*CLIMATE CHANGE: Information on Potential Economic Effects Could Help Guide Federal Efforts to Reduce Fiscal Exposure*](http://www.gao.gov/products/GAO-17-720). 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email")](mailto:?subject=GAO%20Examines%20Economic%20Impact%20of%20Extreme%20Weather%20Events&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** climate change, economic impact --- ### [Kelly Barnes Dam Failure: Dam Safety Then and Now](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kelly-barnes-dam-failure-dam-safety-then-and-now/) **Published:** November 6, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Kelly%20Barnes%20Dam%20Failure%3A%20Dam%20Safety%20Then%20and%20Now "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F11%2FArial-3-400x271.gif&description=Kelly%20Barnes%20Dam%20Failure%3A%20Dam%20Safety%20Then%20and%20Now "Pin it with 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failure](https://damsafety.org/article/awareness/kelly-barnes-dam-failure-40-years-later-dam-safety-remains-national-challenge): an event that acted as a catalyst for improvement in dam safety. On November 6, 1977, Toccoa Falls Bible College was nearly swept away as high water erupted through the defects in the Kelly Barnes Dam, sending 25-foot waves through the campus. This tragedy killed 39 people and caused an estimated $2.8 million in damages. ![Aerial view of a forest-cleared disaster site with scattered debris, trailers, and wreckage among trees and mud-filled ground.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Arial-3-400x271.gif "Arial 3")Arial view of school after dam failureThe anniversary of Georgia’s Kelly Barnes Dam failure reminds us to reflect on the history of dam safety. One month after the dam failure, President Carter called for the inspection of over 9,000 dams creating today’s National Inventory of Dams, which now includes over 90,000 dams. While the country’s dam safety programs have come a long way since the 1977 dam failure, it continues to remain a challenge for many states. The path toward a nationwide dam safety program began 40 years ago and in that time, 49 of 50 states have implemented dam safety programs and the National Inventory of Dams continues to monitor for high-hazard-potential dams, but there is still a great deal of work to be done. For example, the state neighboring this historic failure, [Alabama](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-dam-safety-program/), still has no statewide dam safety program, making it the only state in the country with no such program. Those states that do have dam safety programs continue to face challenges with funding, safety education, and increasing downstream populations. Additionally, while over 90,000 dams are documented in the National Inventory of Dams, over 15,000 of these dams are categorized as high-hazard-potential structures. An estimated 12% of these high-hazard-potential dams need repairs and upgrades for safety reasons. You can find out more about dam safety in [your state](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state/) and [nationwide](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dams). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Kelly%20Barnes%20Dam%20Failure%3A%20Dam%20Safety%20Then%20and%20Now&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Georgia, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Dam Safety, Dam Safety Program, dams, National Inventory of Dams --- ### [Infrastructure Wins on Election Night 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-wins-on-election-night-2017/) **Published:** November 8, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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In Maine, a resounding 72% of residents across the state voted yes on [Question 3](https://ballotpedia.org/Maine_Question_3,_Transportation_Bond_Issue_(2017)), allowing the issuance of $105 million in bonds for transportation projects around the state. $80 million will be provided to state highways and bridges, $20 million for multimodal freight facilities, equipment, and property acquisition, and $5 million for a competitive grant program to upgrade culverts at stream crossings. The bonds also qualify as matching funds when the state seeks federal support. Local ballot measures fared well too. In Colorado, 73% of Denver voters approved [$431 million in bonds](http://www.denverpost.com/2017/10/06/referred-question-2a-denver/) for the city’s road-repair backlog. Georgians in Athens-Clarke and DeKalb counties were asked whether to increase sales and use taxes by 1% for transportation projects. In [Athens-Clarke](http://onlineathens.com/local-news/2017-11-07/update-athens-voters-back-transportation-sales-tax), the measure was approved 74%-26%. In [DeKalb County](http://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/dekalb-county-voters-decide-to-raise-sales-tax-freeze-tax-assessments), 70% of voters chose to increase taxes to improve their area’s transportation infrastructure. In Lawrence, Kansas [voters approved](https://lawrenceks.org/sales-tax/proposal/) the extension of two expiring sales taxes, .2% for mass transit and .3% for roads, stormwater facilities, and bike and sidewalk infrastructure. Both measures passed, by 70% and 73%, respectively. Residents of Grand Rapids, Michigan voted to extend an [expiring 1.47-mill tax](http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2017/10/the_rapid_seeks_tax_renewal.html) (a levy on the assessed value of a property), to support the transit agency’s general operations. Ohio results, meanwhile, were a mixed bag. Allen County [rejected](http://www.limaohio.com/news/269408/allen-county-voters-turn-down-rtas-sales-tax-request) a .025% sales tax to support the area’s regional transit authority, but Mahoning County [approved](http://www.vindy.com/news/2017/nov/08/mahoning-county-csb-wrta-issues-okd/) the extension of an expiring .25 sales tax for its transit authority. Also notable was the outcome of a Kansas City, Missouri ballot measure, in which voters [opted to spend $1 billion](http://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article183379336.html) to redesign the Kansas City International Airport. The design is aimed at increasing airport efficiency and improving security, and the modernization will be paid for by fees on airlines and other revenue, including parking. Opponents of the ballot measure were skeptical of the revenue structure, arguing that tax payers were likely to eventually foot the bill, but voters chose overwhelming to support the plan by a 3 to 1 margin. This year’s successful ballot measures reflect a larger trend. Voters tend to favor of increasing investment in infrastructure and support candidates that do the same. According to analysis by the [American Road & Transportation Builders Association](https://www.artba.org/) (ARTBA), 69% of the 280 transportation funding ballot measures up for vote were approved in 2016, totaling $201 billion for state and local transportation projects. Meanwhile, between 2013 and 2016, 91% of legislators who supported legislation to increase the state gas tax were reelected, according to separate analysis from ARTBA. ASCE identified a [$2 trillion infrastructure investment gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/) in its 2017 Infrastructure Report Card. To close that gap, we must increase [investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/) from all levels of government, including state and local governments. In 2017, Americans once again demonstrated that they are willing to pay more to improve the infrastructure in their communities and beyond. 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(D-CT) introduced [H.R.4209](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4209/text?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22John+Larson%22%5D%7D), the America Wins Act – a bill which would invest $1 trillion, through taxing harmful pollution, in our infrastructure over a decade. Under this legislation, $400 billion will be invested in existing federal highway programs and eliminate the $138 billion Highway Trust Fund (HTF) shortfall; $100 billion will be invested in existing federal transit programs; $50 billion is directed towards intercity passenger rail infrastructure; $50 billion will be used for multimodal projects under the TIGER program; $30 billion will be invested in our aviation system; $50 billion go towards safe drinking water and sewer systems; $64 billion will be invested into waterways, ports, dams, and levees; and $30 billion will go towards broadband infrastructure development. $50 billion, or $5 billion annually, will be directed towards coal country revitalization efforts and fund worker retraining programs, pensions and healthcare benefits, mine reclamation, carbon minimization technologies, and overall economic development. $800 billion is directed towards a tax rebate for working and middle-income families as well as an energy refund for low-income households. A carbon tax, starting $49 a ton and increase 2% annually above inflation, would pay for the infrastructure investment and not add to the national debt. Rep. Nanette Barragan (D-CA), Rep. Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), Rep. Mike Capuano (D-MA), Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Rep. Andre Carson (D-IN), Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN), Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Rep. Val Demmings (D-FL), Rep. Mike Doyle (D-PA), Rep. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Rep. Alcee Hastings ( D-FL), Rep. Jared Huffman (D-CA), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-NJ), Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), and Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL) are original cosponsors. ASCE’s President Kristina L. Swallow, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE said about the legislation: “By investing $1 trillion over the next decade in our nation’s infrastructure, the America Wins Act will address our infrastructure needs and help rebuild our nation and economy.” We support this legislation and strongly urge Congress to act and find ways to rebuild and invest in our infrastructure. We will be following this legislation closely, and keep you apprised of the latest developments. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressman%20Larson%20Introduces%20the%20%E2%80%9CAmerica%20Wins%20Act%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Levees, National Category, Ports, Rail, Roads, Solid Waste, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** aviation, congress, dams, economics, gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, infrastructure report card, rail, roads, transit, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [The Intersection of Infrastructure & Technology](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-intersection-of-infrastructure-technology/) **Published:** November 17, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Intersection%20of%20Infrastructure%20%26%20Technology&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, ASCE participated in a series of panels highlighting the increasing interconnectivity of technology and infrastructure. ***The Hill’s Digitalizing Infrastructure*** “[Digitalizing Infrastructure](http://thehill.com/event/354220-digitalizing-infrastructure-building-a-smart-future)” examined how new technology is transforming investments in everything from energy to transportation infrastructure. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation discussed the U.S.’ digital divide and suggested that her state can remain competitive by investing in smart infrastructure, including broadband. Representative Stacey Plaskett (D-VI) also spoke to The Hill audience, highlighting her home region’s economic grid opportunities and challenges. The U.S. Virgin Islands is second only to New York City in broadband capacity, but the exorbitant cost of electricity drives away business. Microgrids and other innovations in energy infrastructure can help increase the economic competitiveness on the island, as can bundling assets to attract private equity. After the two lawmakers spoke, a panel on future technologies convened. Brian Pallasch, ASCE’s Managing Director, Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives was joined by Franco Amalfi, Director of Strategic Government Programs at Oracle Public Sector North America; Bob Bennett, Chief Innovation Officer in Kansas City, Missouri; and David Wilson, Chief Innovation Officer at Bechtel. The four panelists explored technological advancements like sensors for smart blocks in cities, that allow places like Kansas City the ability to monitor traffic and pedestrian patterns and feed data into an analysis platform that better synchronizes city operations. Brian emphasized that the $2 trillion investment gap identified by ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card cannot be filled by funding and financing alone. Innovations in technology can and must help close the gap. ***U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s 2017 Corporate Citizenship Conference.*** ASCE also participated in the [2017 Corporate Citizenship Conference](https://www.uschamberfoundation.org/event/2017-corporate-citizenship-conference), hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. Brian spoke on an “Engineering Continuity” panel, focused on how businesses can better prepare for disasters. The session also featured Reed Bundy, Director of Corporate Citizenship at Suffolk; Stephen Cauffman, Research Engineer in the Community Resilience Program at the National Institute of Standards and Technology; Taylor Marshall, Director of Sustainable Programs at the Restore Earth Foundation; and Patty Riddlebarger, Corporate Social Responsibility Director at Entergy Corporation. Participants explored how building resilient infrastructure is earning companies a competitive advantage with clients and emphasized that a holistic approach to planning is needed to attract business and build thriving, attractive, and livable communities. Digital infrastructure must be a part of any city’s overall strategy. Those places that are forward-thinking and are investing strategically, such as Kansas City, Missouri, are finding it easier to recruit and retain employers and prepare themselves for the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Intersection%20of%20Infrastructure%20%26%20Technology&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy **Tags:** digital infrastructure, sensors, Smart Cities --- ### [A Record-Breaking Thanksgiving](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-record-breaking-thanksgiving/) **Published:** November 21, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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According to [AAA](https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2017/11/16/busiest-thanksgiving-traffic-since-2005-predicted-despite-higher-gas-prices/866962001/), Thanksgiving weekend in 2017 will be the country’s busiest travel season since 2005. With an estimated 50.9 million people traveling 50 miles or more this weekend, you will likely see overcrowded airports made worse by flight delays or cancellations. Capacity challenges, like the ones we experience during the holiday season, strain our existing infrastructure and frustrate the traveling public. Although U.S. airports serve more than two million passengers every day, [Airlines for America](https://www.cnbc.com/2017/11/01/thanksgiving-flights-to-carry-record-number-of-flyers.html) reports that a record-breaking 28.5 million people will be in the air during the week of Thanksgiving, with Atlanta and Los Angeles as the two busiest airports. To keep pace with demand, many airlines are [expanding service](https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/2017/11/01/thanksgiving-flights-expect-record-crowds-u-s-airports-year/818660001/) this week by adding 86,000 seats daily to combat holiday capacity issues and compensate for this unprecedented number. Unfortunately, built infrastructure cannot be expanded so immediately. Capacity constraints during the holidays squeeze existing airport operations, translating to long security lines, crowded terminals, and tight turnaround times at gates that can contribute to delays. These landslide challenges are only forecasted to increase in future years. In 2015, there were 786 million enplanements and this number is expected to increase to 1.24 million in 2036. It is expected that 24 of the top 30 major airports may soon experience Thanksgiving-peak traffic volumes at least one day every week. Fortunately, there are steps we can take today to better prepare ourselves for airport capacity challenges. By increasing prices by just $1 per airline ticket, we can provide airport infrastructure with the funding it needs to accommodate projected growth, allowing for investment to improve airport facilities and the air traffic control system. Increased investment will help airports manage the growing passenger numbers throughout the year and allow airlines to increase service during the busy holiday season, unfettered by infrastructure challenges on the ground. If you are in the air, on a road trip, or taking the train, you will find yourself relying on our nation’s D+ infrastructure this holiday season, a time when congestion and delays are at a yearly high and our infrastructure system is pushed to its limit. To understand the infrastructure struggle and find out how you can ensure adequate and stable funding for our transportation systems, take a look at the [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/). 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once-in-a-generation opportunity to address the nation’s infrastructure investment gap. Earlier this month, Congress began the process of crafting tax-cut legislation. The House Ways and Means Committee drafted [H.R. 1](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/1/text), the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which passed out of committee and the full House 227-205. The Senate Finance Committee drafted and passed their [own tax legislation](https://www.finance.senate.gov/taxreform) and is currently being debated in the full Senate. Both proposals contain several provisions that are harmful to infrastructure financing, education opportunities and job creation. Among them, are the following: - The bills currently lack a permanent solution to the Highway Trust Fund’s revenue deficit. - The [elimination of financing tools](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/) used by state and local governments and other entities to improve infrastructure such as the use of private activity bonds (PABs) and the advance refundings of municipal bonds. - The [elimination of tax exemptions that support higher education](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/resolution-553---tax-incentives-for-higher-education/) including Section 127 tax-benefits for employer-provided education assistance, tax-free tuition-waivers for students, tax deductions for student loan interest, and taxes on investments earned by colleges and universities. - New tax rules that treat [professional service corporations such as engineering firms differently than other businesses](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/resolution-554---tax-reform-and-engineering-firms/). Current tax proposals contain language that would exclude professional service firms from the lower rate which means that partners in an engineering pass-through firm would be forced to pay the higher individual tax rate on all their income, while partners of a pass-through firm in another industry would get the lower rate. Congress should not squander the opportunity found in the tax debate to address the Nation’s need to invest in our infrastructure. Nor should Congress inhibit our ability to finance infrastructure projects, educate and develop the workforce, and create jobs. We sent the Senate a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/ASCE-Senate-tax-cut-legislation-letter-2017-11-27.pdf) detailing our concerns and opposing the proposals. As this debate moves through the Senate, we urge you to [contact your Senators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=418573&utm_campaign=GR-20171127+-+Oppose+Tax+Bill&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and ask them to support infrastructure and oppose this legislation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Tax%20Legislation%20Hurts%20Infrastructure%2C%20Engineers&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** bonds, civil engineers, congress, continuing education, economics, education, financing, gas tax, highway trust fund, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, jobs, P3s, public-private partnership, tax --- ### [Congress Misses Opportunity to Fix Infrastructure, While States Do Their Part](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-misses-opportunity-to-fix-infrastructure-while-states-do-their-part/) **Published:** December 1, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[Senate and House tax bills](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/tax-legislation-hurts-infrastructure-engineers/) proved to be missed opportunities for fixing the federal Highway Trust Fund, but states are doing their part and investing in infrastructure. The federal Highway Trust Fund, an account used to pay for the federal share of roads, bridges, and transit, has not been raised in 24 years. Over time, the 18.4-cent user fee has lost 40% of its purchasing power, while the cost of materials and labor has continued to increase. Increasing the gas tax would solve this problem, but congress has been reticent to do so. In contrast, many states have taken action to address transportation funding needs through a gas tax increase. Many states have chosen to do their part by implementing motor fuel taxes, with [California](http://www.latimes.com/politics/essential/la-pol-ca-essential-politics-updates-california-s-increased-gas-tax-goes-into-1509552219-htmlstory.html) as the most recent addition to this list. The state added a 12-cents-per-gallon tax at the pump in November., The tax is expected to raise $5.2 billion each year over the next decade for highway, bridge, and road repairs to improve the quality of life for drivers. Unfortunately, now voters are asking to reopen the issue through a ballot measure proposal, which would appear in the November 2018 ballot if enough signatures are collected. ASCE believes this would negate the progress made to address California’s surface transportation needs. This week, [Iowa, Nebraska](http://journalstar.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/nebraska-iowa-road-projects-see-boost-from-gas-tax-increase/article_8a023bef-783e-5522-8a93-53eba20180c6.html), and [Indiana’s](http://www.mywabashvalley.com/news/improving-roads-in-indiana/868986668) investments made headlines. Iowa approved a 10-cents-per-gallon increase in February 2015, rounding out the total gas tax to 30.5 cents. Nebraska added a 6-cents, phased-in increase beginning in May of that year, which will fully take effect in 2019, for a total of 31.6 cents. Just under three years after both states raised their gas taxes, residents are seeing the much-needed results. From bridge replacements in Nebraska, where 15.4% of bridges are structurally deficient, to highway lane expansions in Iowa, where traffic has increased 123% over the last 30 years, long overdue changes are being made in both states. Indiana’s 10-cents-per-gallon increase took effect just a few months ago and is already funding small projects, including improvements on local city streets. The gas tax is not the only way to raise revenue. Infrastructure champions are proposing additional solutions to fund America’s failing infrastructure. [Connecticut Congressman, John Larson](http://wnpr.org/post/can-taxing-pollution-pay-infrastructure-improvements) is suggesting a carbon tax. Through the recently-introduced America Wins Act, Larson hopes a pollution tax will raise $1.8 trillion over 10 years, and says this money should be invested in infrastructure improvements. He hopes that taxing pollution is a solution that everyone can get behind and it looks like some already have. Shell, BP, and ExxonMobil have already shown support for this idea. [Americans have shown](http://www.moderncities.com/article/2017-sep-8-of-10-americans-would-pay-more-taxes-for-better-roads) that they are willing to pay more to improve our infrastructure, and states are finding creative solutions to close the infrastructure investment gap. Find out if legislation is moving in [your state](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/states?utm_campaign=GR-2017-12-01-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to address infrastructure needs. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Misses%20Opportunity%20to%20Fix%20Infrastructure%2C%20While%20States%20Do%20Their%20Part&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, bridges, congress, highway trust fund, roads --- ### [The Atlantic: Summit on Infrastructure + Transportation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-atlantic-summit-on-infrastructure-transportation/) **Published:** December 8, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Atlantic%3A%20Summit%20on%20Infrastructure%20%2B%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week [The Atlantic’s Summit on Infrastructure and Transportation](https://www.theatlantic.com/live/events/summit-on-infrastructure-transportation/2017/) explored the state of America’s infrastructure and where it’s heading in the future. The summit included a series of panels with guests discussing technology and the future of infrastructure, natural disasters and resiliency, and infrastructure projects taking place across the nation. The panel, “[Infrastructure in Critical Condition,”](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYzsWE_hDsI&index=4&list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL) was a conversation with Kristina Swallow, PE, President of the American Society of Civil Engineers and James Dalton, Director of Civil Works with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and was moderated by Steve Clemons, The Atlantic’s Washington Editor at Large. Both panelists highlighted that America’s infrastructure is not meeting our current needs and civil engineers must work to protect the public’s health, safety, and welfare through infrastructure improvements. Throughout the 20-minute panel, they discussed two key themes: building for the future and modifying what they currently have. The need for increased investment was a recurring message, as Dalton pointed out that we will not be able to solely innovate our way out of these challenges. ![Three panelists seated on a stage, woman on left speaking while two men listen, colorful backdrop behind them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/20171206_Atlantic_Infrastructure_Summit_279-400x267.jpg "20171206_Atlantic_Infrastructure_Summit_279") **Building For The Future** When asked about climate change, Dalton noted that civil engineers prepare for the future by designing and building resilient infrastructure, including creating infrastructure that can withstand climate change, including imminent droughts, flooding, and rising sea levels. Civil engineers can build resiliently and for the future by not only looking at individual pieces of infrastructure, but also by looking at full systems such as the relationship between dams and levees, which can help civil engineers better prepare for future disasters. ![Panel discussion at a conference stage with three speakers, audience seated in a brick-walled venue and a large green-banner backdrop reading 'Infrastructure + Transportation'](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/20171206_Atlantic_Infrastructure_Summit_281-400x267.jpg "20171206_Atlantic_Infrastructure_Summit_281") **Modifying What We Have** When it comes to infrastructure, the federal government seems to be at a stand-still, prompting states and localities to take action. In the panel, Swallow noted that Seattle, just one of many localities across the country working to improve its infrastructure, has begun to modify existing transportation infrastructure and maximize the benefit this can provide. This is just one example of how our nation is working on finding infrastructure solutions when the federal government does not have one. “[Breaking Through: A Transformation in Seattle](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhlyIq3E0zw&index=5&list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL),” also discussed infrastructure innovation in Seattle and featured ASCE board member, Roger Millar Jr., P.E., F.ASCE, Secretary of the Washington State Department of Transportation. Other panels included discussions on the [current state of Puerto Rico’s infrastructure following Hurricane Maria](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NtIbbxxTxN8&list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL&index=3), [transportation improvements in the Washington, DC metropolitan area including construction of the Hyperloop](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xJ0DwIAe_Y&index=6&list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL), and [how we can adapt our infrastructure to accommodate autonomous vehicles](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKlW067iUxs&list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL&index=7). Watch all of the panels from The Atlantic’s Summit on Infrastructure and Transportation [here](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwj46yNDLyTW1023v4eF7oMxEYL1nSuRL). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Atlantic%3A%20Summit%20on%20Infrastructure%20%2B%20Transportation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, ASCE, infrastructure, USACE --- ### [Truckers Support an Increased Motor Fuels Tax](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/truckers-support-an-increased-motor-fuels-tax/) **Published:** December 11, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Truckers%20Support%20an%20Increased%20Motor%20Fuels%20Tax "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2017%2F12%2F5_-ATRI-report-funding-matrix-400x233.jpg&description=Truckers%20Support%20an%20Increased%20Motor%20Fuels%20Tax "Pin it with 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nation’s transportation funding options](http://www.traffictechnologytoday.com/news.php?NewsID=88242), an update to its original research in 2007, to identify the best revenue sources for our transportation network. In addition to ATRI, other industry stakeholders have offered alternative revenue sourcing options. The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) had offered their own [matrix of revenue source options](http://downloads.transportation.org/TranspoRevenueMatrix2014.pdf) in a 2014 report. These include, but not limited to, a container tax, driver’s license surcharge, freight charge, and registration fee in addition to the federal motor fuels tax. After assessing several funding options based on administrative, efficiency, equity, and effectiveness; ATRI found the federal motor fuels tax to be the best option. It’s low administrative costs and proven effectiveness make it the most direct funding option to address the long-term solvency of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) – the federal fund that pays for bridges, roads, and transit. Mileage-based user fees and increased tolling scored lower in the assessment process because it falls short of the needed revenue to complete a comprehensive infrastructure package that would not induce system-user hardship. In addition to increasing the federal motor fuels tax, the report also offered additional recommendations to ensure the HTF’s solvency including “Investigate an Automatic Mechanism for Filling in HTF Gaps with General Fund Dollars.” The report acknowledges that this not an ideal scenario, but given the economic importance of the HTF, doing so would provide greater certainty. Considering technological advancement, another recommendation is “Identify Methods for Collecting Revenue from Electric Vehicles.” ![Highway Funding Options Matrix: rows Fuel Tax (5,5,5,5; Overall 5.00), Registration Fee (3,4,4,4; 3.75), General Fund (5,3,2,2; 3.00), Financing (4,3,2,2; 2.75), VMT Tax (1,1,5,3; 2.50), Tolling (2,2,3,1; 2.00); columns Administration, Efficiency, Equity, Effectiveness, Overall Score; legend from 5 green to 1 red.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/5_-ATRI-report-funding-matrix-400x233.jpg "5_ ATRI report funding matrix") \*Taken from ATRI’s “A Framework for Infrastructure Funding” ATRI is hardly alone in its conclusion to increase the federal motor fuels tax. Public opinion closely mirrored the objective assessment ATRI ran the various funding options through. Additionally, the [American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has long supported an increase in the federal motor fuels tax that goes toward the HTF](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/). The federal motor fuels tax rate hasn’t been raised since 1993 and inflation has cut its real value by 40%. The failure to update our federal motor fuels tax has led to inadequate support of the HTF, poor surface transportation infrastructure, and a lack of economic competitiveness. ATRI’s research again underscores the need to fix the HTF, and objectively found increasing the federal motor fuels tax is the best way to do it. Unfortunately, Congress did not choose to #FixTheTrustFund in either the House or the Senate tax proposals. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Truckers%20Support%20an%20Increased%20Motor%20Fuels%20Tax&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** #HighwayTrustFund, financing, Funding, gas tax, highway trust, highway trust fund, highways, tax --- ### [Legislation Advocates for Resilient Re-Building](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/legislation-advocates-for-resilient-re-building/) **Published:** December 13, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Congresses, has become particularly relevant because of the hazard events of 2017. The goal of the legislation is to amend the Stafford Act to enhance existing mitigation programs by encouraging states to voluntarily adopt and enforce nationally-recognized model building codes for residential and commercial structures in order to qualify for an additional four percent of funding available for post-disaster grants. Efforts are under way to incorporate the bill into the pending disaster-relief spending bill this year in the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, and the devastating California wildfires. This is the signature legislation pushed by the [BuildStrong Coalition](http://buildstrongamerica.com/), of which ASCE is a member. The group also represents firefighters, emergency responders, insurers, architects, contractors and manufacturers, as well as consumer organizations, code specialists, and many others committed to building a more resilient America. ASCE has joined with other members of the Coalition in numerous letters, briefing sessions, and Hill visits advocating for the measure. Those efforts have continued in the current Congress and on November 28th House Transportation & Infrastructure Emergency Management Subcommittee Chairman Lou Barletta (R-PA) and Ranking Member Hank Johnson (D-GA) introduced [H.R. 4460, the Disaster Recovery Reform Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4460?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+4460%22%5D%7D&r=1). The bill was quickly approved by the full Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. The legislation incorporates many of the provisions on the Smart Building Codes Act. As drafted HR. 4460 contains the following provisions: - Federal Cost Share Reform Incentives: Incentivizes states to invest in resiliency by allowing the federal cost share to be increased based on nationally-acknowledged resiliency standards put in place pre-disaster. - Pre-Disaster Mitigation Fund: Leverages the life- and cost-saving power of prevention to provide states with access to on-budget pre-disaster mitigation funding for activities that provide a measurable reduction of risk. This would be accomplished by shifting 6% of annual funding from the Post-Disaster Relief Fund to the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program. - Post-Disaster Building Code Funding: Helps states and communities build to stronger standards post-disaster by ensuring that building code implementation and enforcement funding is available to affected areas post-disaster. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Legislation%20Advocates%20for%20Resilient%20Re-Building&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Levees, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, resiliency --- ### [The Transportation of Tomorrow: Self-Driving Vehicles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-transportation-of-tomorrow-self-driving-vehicles/) **Published:** December 15, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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finish line with the latest in transportation technology: autonomous vehicles. This week [Florida](http://www.govtech.com/fs/automation/Florida-City-Launches-Autonomous-Public-Shuttle-Pilot.html), [Montana](http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/keci/missoula-considers-self-driving-car-technology/663563502), [Wisconsin](https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2017/12/08/foxconn-wants-use-driverless-vehicles-move-thousands-employees-racine-county/931773001/), and [Minnesota](http://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2017/12/12/driverless-buses-winter/) made headlines for showing interest in this new technology, with some cities heading to the streets for a test-drive. Across the country, we are seeing what was once science fiction become a reality. Montana hopes to bring autonomous vehicles to Missoula as soon as 2019. Monticello, Minnesota and Gainesville, Florida have taken self-driving shuttles to the streets, testing them out as a new option for commuters, while Foxconn Technology Group in Racine County, Wisconsin plans to use autonomous vehicles to shuttle employees throughout the company’s campus. The introduction of autonomous vehicles provides commuters with many benefits including increased safety, more transportation options, and less congestion on the roads. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) notes that thanks to the 360-degree sensors these vehicles are equipped with, riding in self-driving cars and shuttles can be safer than taking a trip in a normal car. Creators of these innovative vehicles are also hoping for small autonomous shuttles to fill in the transportation gaps where necessary, serving commuters with short “first-mile, last-mile” trips. Shuttles will take transit users from home to a transit stop and back, enabling more commuters to use public transportation and effectively cutting down on car-users and congestion. What do autonomous vehicles mean for America’s infrastructure? With transportation looking towards the future, we can no longer afford to have our infrastructure stuck in the past. Transportation and infrastructure work together and one cannot exist without the other. Meaning, to keep up with improvements in transportation technology, we need to improve our infrastructure and ensure the proper funding. America’s infrastructure must be prepared for the future and engineers should consider emerging technologies and shifting trends to assure long-term utility. Without properly funded, resilient infrastructure we risk self-driving vehicles popping tires on potholes and getting lost from poor lane markings and signage. Missoula’s transportation planning manager, Jessica Morriss predicts that self-driving vehicles “are going to be a part of our world, just like smartphones.” Morris is right; autonomous vehicles are the future and similar to other smart technology systems, these vehicles are connected devices. Although they are equipped with radar, GPS, and on-board cameras, self-driving vehicles also work by connecting to pieces of surface transportation infrastructure and signage, such as traffic lights. To fix surface transportation, many states are turning to a gas tax, but we are still waiting on Congress to do their part and #FixTheTrustFund. [Find out](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/states?utm_campaign=GR-2017-12-01-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) if legislators in your state are working to improve infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Transportation%20of%20Tomorrow%3A%20Self-Driving%20Vehicles&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Florida, Minnesota, Montana, National Category, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Transit, Wisconsin **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, autonomous vehicles, bridges, roads, surface transportation --- ### [Driving In A Winter Wonderland: States Prepare Infrastructure For Winter Conditions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/driving-in-a-winter-wonderland-states-prepare-infrastructure-for-winter-conditions/) **Published:** December 22, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")Dreaming of a white Christmas? Or maybe you’re hoping to escape the cold this holiday season? No matter what your perfect holiday looks like, each winter we turn on our TVs and check our weather apps to see snow and hail coming down across America. These storms create poor visibility for drivers, icy roads, and long-term problems with our surface transportation infrastructure systems. Across the country, we can already see states preparing their infrastructure for fast-approaching winter weather. [Massachusetts](https://www.capecod.com/cape-wide-news/gov-baker-says-massdot-is-ready-for-the-winter-with-equipment-staff/) transportation officials and the [Rhode Island](http://turnto10.com/news/local/ridot-prepares-for-winter-with-15-new-plows) Department of Transportation are investing in snow clearing equipment, while [Wyoming](http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/govt-and-politics/i--master-plan-seeks-improved-winter-safety-proposes-new/article_a7e92c32-b8f2-5072-84d4-36b2f6142036.html) is proposing investment in safety improvements for collision-prone I-80. [Kansas City](http://www.govtech.com/fs/How-Kansas-City-Mo-Is-Snuffing-Out-Potholes-Before-They-Appear.html) has taken winter preparations to the next level by testing pothole detection technology, a preventative maintenance system used to snuff out potholes before they even appear. This cutting-edge technology uses existing traffic cameras to monitor traffic volume, pavement age, weather, collisions, maintenance, and more to anticipate when a pothole will appear. Each year, about 20 to 25 miles of Kansas City roads are resurfaced or repaired. With pothole detection and preventative maintenance technology, the city can be smarter about their maintenance and repair efforts, stretching their $8 million budget to cover 35 to 45 miles of streets per year. These are just a few examples of states that are preparing to protect their infrastructure in a battle against the ice and snow this winter. With people driving more and vehicle miles traveled at a record high in 2016, we can be thankful that states are taking responsibility and protecting our infrastructure, while we wait for the federal government take initiative. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Driving%20In%20A%20Winter%20Wonderland%3A%20States%20Prepare%20Infrastructure%20For%20Winter%20Conditions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, News, Rhode Island, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Wyoming **Tags:** bridges, Potholes, roads, surface transportation --- ### [A Look Back: 2017 at ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-look-back-2017-at-asce/) **Published:** December 29, 2017 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Take a look at our 5 most read blog posts from 2017: 1\. [Legislation to Create National Infrastructure Bank Reintroduced](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/legislation-to-create-national-infrastructure-bank-reintroduced/) In May, legislators introduced the BRIDGE Act to establish a national infrastructure bank to give state and local governments another tool in the toolbox for financing infrastructure projects. 2\. [States Approve Major Transportation Packages](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-approve-major-transportation-packages/) Across the country, a number of states, including California, Indiana, Montana, and Tennessee, invested in infrastructure through gas tax increases. 3\. [Welcome to the New InfrastructureReportCard.org](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/welcome-to-the-new-infrastructurereportcard-org/) In March, ASCE released the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, which gave America an overall D+ grade, and launched a new report card website. 4\. [Oregon Legislature and Governor Reach Compromise on Gas Tax Increase](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/oregon-legislature-and-governor-reach-compromise-on-gas-tax-increase/) Oregon joined in on the gas tax trend that took place this year, implementing a 10-cent per gallon tax and bike fee. These changes will begin with a 4-cent increase in 2018, and will go into full-effect in 2024. 5\. [Infrastructure Wins on Election Night 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-wins-on-election-night-2017/) On election day, voters across the country showed up to approve infrastructure investment ballot measures. 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email")](mailto:?subject=A%20Look%20Back%3A%202017%20at%20ASCE&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, California, Indiana, Montana, National Category, News, Oregon, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Tennessee **Tags:** bridge, bridges, elections, gas tax, report card, roads, state government, surface transportation, transportation --- ### [Must Haves for a Federal Infrastructure Bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/must-haves-for-a-federal-infrastructure-bill/) **Published:** January 10, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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indicate Republicans discussed it at a retreat at Camp David and the White House hosted a bipartisan meeting to share more about what they will release. To address our nation’s infrastructure needs, we need an additional $2 trillion worth of investment across all levels of government and the private sector over the next 10 years. A federal infrastructure package that’s additive to current funding levels would go a long way to bringing our infrastructure from a “D+” to a “B” average. With the needs and solutions identified in the Report Card in mind, ASCE released Principles for Infrastructure Investment last year to offer guidance on what an effective package should include: - Investments must provide substantial, long-term benefits to the public and the economy; - The cost of a project over its entire life span – including designing, building, operating, and maintaining the infrastructure – must be taken into account; - Projects should be built sustainably and resiliently; and - Federal investment should leverage state, local, and private investment, not replace these other critical sources of infrastructure funding. Selecting projects by utilizing the framework of existing federal programs can help expedite the process. The projects funded by the programs below have already proven to be successful; providing more funding to existing programs rather than creating new programs will reduce overhead costs and startup time while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across all sectors of U.S. infrastructure Effective existing federal infrastructure programs include: - The Clean Water State Revolving Fund, - The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, - The Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program, - The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Brownfields and Superfund cleanup programs, - The Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) NextGen air traffic control system, - The FAA’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), - The Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, - The Inland Waterway Trust Fund, - The Dam Safety Program, - The Levee Safety Program, - Priority projects in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project backlog, - U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) grants, and - U.S. DOT Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) discretionary grants. Another mark of success is that any plan must include a long-term, sustainable funding solution for the Highway Trust Fund. Our nation’s surface transportation infrastructure accounts for more than three-quarters of the overall infrastructure investment gap, and bolstering the Trust Fund would go a long way toward closing the gap. The Fund’s primary revenue source, the federal motor fuel tax, has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has cut its real value by 40%. Congress has shored up the fund with $140 billion in general fund transfers since 2008. Between 2021 and 2026, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates Congress will need to provide an additional $121 billion to the Highway Trust Fund just to meet current obligations and maintain existing spending levels. To ensure adequate and stable funding for America’s highways, bridges and transit systems the Trust Fund needs a long-term, sustainable revenue source. Infrastructure is the very backbone of our nation’s economy. ASCE and its 150,000 members look forward to working with President Trump and the 115th Congress to improve America’s infrastructure, so that every family, community, and business can thrive. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Must%20Haves%20for%20a%20Federal%20Infrastructure%20Bill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Hazardous Waste, Inland Waterways, Levees, News, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** 115th Congress, congress, infrastructure bill, infrastructure investment, White House --- ### [Congressional ‘Problem Solvers’ Propose Infrastructure Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressional-problem-solvers-propose-infrastructure-solutions/) **Published:** January 11, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20%E2%80%98Problem%20Solvers%E2%80%99%20Propose%20Infrastructure%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, the Problem Solvers Caucus, a bipartisan group of 24 republican and 24 democrat U.S. House Members released “[Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure](https://reed.house.gov/uploadedfiles/psc_infrastructure_report.pdf),” a report detailing points of bipartisan consensus on policies to improve the nation’s infrastructure. Rep. John Katko (R-NY) and Rep. Elizabeth Esty (D-CT) led the Infrastructure Working Group that identified places of agreement to address infrastructure needs across sectors. Congressman Katko commented that we “Can’t have a 21st Century economy with 20th Century infrastructure,” when describing why this report was needed. In his remarks, he specifically mentioned the recommendation to require life cycle assessments in projects over $20 million. This policy idea was inspired by[ ASCE’s Grand Challenge](https://collaborate.asce.org/ascegrandchallenge/home). The report includes recommendations on broad challenges including funding and financing, and regulatory reform, as well as sector-specific solutions for surface transportation, ports and inland waterways, water and wastewater, energy, broadband and communication networks, and aviation. Among the recommendations: - Designate a rural liaison within each infrastructure agency to provide technical assistance - Implement reforms to the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) and Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) that expand eligibility criteria and encourage more small system applications in rural communities - Adapt FAST 41 streamlining provisions to other infrastructure legislation - An immediate or phased in modernization of the federal gasoline user fee that fully and sustainably funds the Highway Trust Fund - Strengthen and increase access to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds - Maintain funding for the Department of Energy’s power grid modernization efforts Congresswoman Esty, who is the daughter and granddaughter of civil engineers, offered the rallying cry that “America needs to do something. Congress needs to do its job.” She added that this report’s bipartisan buy-in shows that she and her colleagues can and should pass an additive infrastructure package. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressional%20%E2%80%98Problem%20Solvers%E2%80%99%20Propose%20Infrastructure%20Solutions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Drinking Water, Inland Waterways, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit, Wastewater --- ### [Federal Investment in Infrastructure: A Mutually Beneficial Relationship](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-investment-in-infrastructure-a-mutually-beneficial-relationship/) **Published:** January 12, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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network is the backbone of our economy. Every day, our roads, bridges, rails, inland waterways, transit systems and more move millions of people and goods from origin to destination. Infrastructure enables us to get to work, school, and leisure activities, and facilitates trade. The role infrastructure plays in supporting the economy and preserving our quality of life was well understood by the Founding Fathers. These men codified the federal role in infrastructure through Article 1 of the Constitution, which gives Congress jurisdiction over matters relating to interstate commerce. Washington’s role in infrastructure was further affirmed in the 1950s and 1960s, when President Eisenhower and Congress authorized the Interstate Highway System. In the coming days, the Trump Administration plans to release a detailed set of principles on how to improve our current-day infrastructure. The release of these priorities is timely; the [*ACSE Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) estimates that between 2016 and 2025, the gap between what our infrastructure needs and what we are spending will be $2 trillion. Subsequent legislation introduced by Congress, which will likely build from the Trump Administration’s principles, must address this $2 trillion investment gap in a meaningful way, by providing robust federal funding. Such funding is mutually beneficial; federal investment spurs economic development. Investment in national park infrastructure, for example, supports economies in rural “gateway” towns nearby, as tourists spend money at restaurants and bars, grocery and convenience stores, lodging and gas stations. Freight infrastructure investment is an economic multiplier, and finished projects yield benefits to an entire region or the nation as a whole. The economy and Americans’ quality of life stand to benefit from substantial federal investment through an infrastructure bill. Such funding should be directed through existing programs that have proven to be effective, such as the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program, TIGER grants, and many others. Legislation should also include a long-term fix for the chronically insolvent Highway Trust Fund, which relies on revenue from a gas tax that has not been raised in since 1993. Of course, federal investment is only one portion of the partnership. States, localities, and the private sector should work together to increase overall investment in infrastructure. Fortunately, many states and localities have already acted. Over the past five years, 26 states have raised their gas and diesel fuel taxes. In 2017, voters approved more than 80% of transportation investment ballot measures across 20 states, according to analysis conducted by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association’s Transportation Investment Advocacy Center. These new dollars are helpful, but their effectiveness is multiplied when a partnership with the federal government is forged. For more information about how investment can begin to solve our infrastructure challenges, visit the *ASCE Infrastructure Report Card* [investment solutions page](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/). *This post is part of a series in anticipation of a White House proposal on infrastructure investment. Read part one of the series on [ASCE’s Principles for Infrastructure Investment here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/must-haves-for-a-federal-infrastructure-bill/).* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Federal%20Investment%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20A%20Mutually%20Beneficial%20Relationship&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Federal%20Investment%20in%20Infrastructure%3A%20A%20Mutually%20Beneficial%20Relationship "Share on 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Priority](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/u-s-chamber-an-infrastructure-bill-with-a-user-fee-increase-is-our-2018-priority/) **Published:** January 19, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=U.S.%20Chamber%3A%20An%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20with%20a%20User%20Fee%20Increase%20is%20Our%202018%20Priority&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On January 18, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce hosted business leaders, policymakers, association presidents, investors and workforce leaders for the “[America’s Infrastructure Summit: Time to Modernize](https://www.uschamber.com/event/america-s-infrastructure-summit-time-modernize).” In conjunction with the Summit, the U.S. Chamber released a set of recommendations for policymakers to consider as they begin developing a comprehensive infrastructure package. [These recommendations](https://www.uschamber.com/speech/america-s-infrastructure-summit-time-modernize) included the endorsement of a 25-cent increase to the federal fuel user fee, a step ASCE has long advocated for. Additionally, the U.S. Chamber recommended a multi-faceted approach to infrastructure investment that leverages greater public and private resources and makes use of public-private partnerships. President and CEO Tom Donohue rounded out the U.S. Chamber’s list of recommendations by advising Congress further to streamline the permitting process and expand the workforce by promoting work-based learning and retain skilled immigrants, including from programs like DACA and TPS. Donohue’s optimism that infrastructure can be addressed in a meaningful way this year was followed up with a discussion on the role of the private sector in future infrastructure decisions. Glenn Youngkin, Co-CEO of the Carlyle Group, told the audience that he describes U.S. infrastructure to potential investors as “an emerging market.” He emphasized that drafters of an infrastructure bill should not try to “boil the ocean,” but instead should look at doable fixes to existing programs and policy that can go a long way towards enabling public-private partnerships and streamlining the permitting process. Kristina Swallow P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE, ASCE 2018 President, spoke alongside John Schroer, AASHTO President and Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Transportation. The two participated in a one-on-one discussion on permitting reform. Kristina spoke to her experiences as an engineer with the City of Las Vegas, navigating the challenges associated with securing approval for small and large projects. She also emphasized that in many cases, the lack of available funding is as significant of a source of project delay as permitting. Other Summit speakers included Jennifer Aumet, President, North America at Transurban, Terry O’Sullivan, General President, Laborers’ International Union of North America, Stephen Sandherr, CEO of the Associated General Contractors of America, Mike Ducker, President of FedEx Freight, Mark Stodola, Mayor of City of Little Rock, and many others. The afternoon agenda was focused on the broader view of infrastructure, including airports, ports, short line and regional railroad associations, and natural gas and pipeline infrastructure. A [webcast](https://www.uschamber.com/event/america-s-infrastructure-summit-time-modernize) of the Summit is available here. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=U.S.%20Chamber%3A%20An%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20with%20a%20User%20Fee%20Increase%20is%20Our%202018%20Priority&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Levees, Roads, Transit, Uncategorized --- ### [Congress Begins WRDA 2018 Discussions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/) **Published:** January 19, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Environment held a hearing entitled “[America’s Water Resources Infrastructure: Approaches to Enhanced Delivery Systems.](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=402108)” Witnesses at the hearing included Major General Donald E. Jackson, the Deputy Commanding General for Civil and Emergency Operations at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), James C. Dalton, the Director of Civil Works at the USACE, and a specialist from the Congressional Research Service, among others. This hearing comes a day after the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works’ similar hearing entitled “[America’s Water Infrastructure Needs and Challenges: Federal Panel](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=301D333D-4320-44D6-AD3E-03AB014C4288)[,](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=402108)” which also included top officials from the USACE. The House T&I hearing focused on alternative financing mechanisms for water resources projects and also discussed the need for the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to be used for its intended purposes, whether a repeal on the ban of earmarks would speed up the delivery of water resources infrastructure projects, and the USACE’s public-private partnerships (P3s) pilot project authorization. During the hearing, Congressman Thomas Massie (R-KY), an electrical and mechanical engineer, asked the USACE witnesses for a status update on where the agency is in developing policy guidance on the P3 pilot projects. The USACE made note of the single project being undertaken through this authorization, the[ Fargo Moorhead Metropolitan Flood Risk Management Project.](https://www.army.mil/article/186478/corps_of_engineers_breaks_ground_on_fargo_moorhead_flood_risk_management_project) The USACE also said they have not been able to find additional projects that fit within the authorization’s parameters and are waiting on guidance from the Trump Administration on how to select and fund such P3 projects in the future. ASCE has been a long-time advocate of the USACE’s P3 pilot project authorization. Under Section 5014 of the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014](https://www.congress.gov/bill/113th-congress/house-bill/3080), the USACE is authorized to enter agreements with non-federal interests, including private entities, to finance construction of at least 15 authorized water resources development projects. Though this provision requires Congressional appropriation prior to taking effect, funding has yet to be provided. In 2015, [ASCE’s Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute](https://www.asce.org/coasts-oceans-ports-and-rivers-engineering/coasts,-oceans,-ports-and-rivers-institute/) created the Subcommittee on Alternative Financing of Waterways Infrastructure to evaluate the P3 authorization included in Section 5014 of WRRDA 2014 and to educate, facilitate, and advocate for the use of alternate finance for water resources projects in the country. This [report](https://www.asce.org/copri/news/20170302-alternative-financing-for-waterways-infrastructure-final-report/), released by the subcommittee in 2016, outlines how alternative financing can serve as an important resourcing component to supplement traditional federal financing models. A shorter, 2-page summary of the report is available [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ASCE-Alt-Finance-for-Waterways-FINAL-12.7.17.pdf). ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card* ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)gave the nation’s [inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Inland-Waterways-Final.pdf) a grade of “D,” and despite increases in investments and project prioritization, there is a growing overall funding shortfall between the long term, reliable funding needed to build, maintain, and operate water infrastructure projects and the actual appropriations provided to do so. The future of our nation’s security, economy, and our quality of life depends on expanding the tools available to meet our growing infrastructure and funding needs, and an alternative financing and delivery mechanism is one of those tools. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Begins%20WRDA%202018%20Discussions&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Inland Waterways, National Category, News **Tags:** P3s, Water Resources, water resources development act, WRDA --- ### [States Are Back in Session and Infrastructure Is on the Agenda](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-are-back-in-session-and-infrastructure-is-on-the-agenda/) **Published:** January 22, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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the country waits for President Trump to unveil his long-awaited infrastructure plan. In the meantime, we have seen state after state step up and do their part to fill in the investment gap. Some states, such as Oregon and California, have recently implemented gas taxes to fund infrastructure improvement projects, while other states, like Florida, are increasing toll rates. With the New Year well underway and most state legislatures moving into session, we are seeing the trend of advocating for infrastructure investment continue. **Alabama** [Alabama](http://abc3340.com/news/local/gas-tax-increase-back-in-conversations-as-alabama-lawmakers-return-to-montgomery) continued momentum from their discussion in previous years, by starting the conversation for increasing the gas tax. It has not raised its gas tax in over 25 years and is struggling to keep up with maintenance needs. **Colorado** [Colorado’s](https://www.bizjournals.com/denver/news/2018/01/08/colorado-senate-republicans-will-introduce-road.html) legislature went into session last Wednesday and Senate President Kevin Grantham was quick to [announce](https://www.denverpost.com/2018/01/10/colorado-senate-president-opening-day-speech/) that the Republican party would introduce a bill to fund transportation through bonds. This money would go towards the predicted $9 billion backlog in transportation projects that is expected to pile up over the next 10 years. On Thursday, Governor Hickenlooper, who is in his last year of office, gave his [State of the State](https://www.cpr.org/news/story/state-of-the-state-governor-seeks-money-for-education-and-transportation-urges) address, remarking that it is up to voters to decide whether the state should raise new revenue for transportation. He called out the fact that Colorado has also not raised its gas tax in over 25 years. While the path to investment is not clear with Colorado, legislators do agree on one thing: it is time to fund infrastructure. **Connecticut** In [Connecticut](https://ctmirror.org/2018/01/10/malloy-discloses-hundreds-of-transportation-projects-ready-to-stall/), Governor Malloy, who has been a [champion for infrastructure](http://www.transformct.info/) and will continue that during his last year in office, called for the state to take action, stating that it is time for Connecticut to fund vital infrastructure projects that, without funding, will hurt the state’s economy. But for now, he has put a [hold](https://www.constructiondive.com/news/ct-governor-shelves-more-than-4b-in-infrastructure-projects/514681/) on $4.3 billion in infrastructure projects until the state reaches a funding solution. **Missouri** In [Missouri](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/task-force-recommends-raising-missouris-gas-tax), the 21st Century Missouri Transportation Task Force is advocating for a 10-cent per gallon gas tax increase. Brian Pallasch, ASCE’s Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives, presented the Infrastructure Report Card to lawmakers at this task force in December 2017. He emphasized the need for investment and the impacts of underinvestment. Currently, Missouri has the fifth-lowest overall gas tax in the nation at 17.3 cents per gallon. Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, and Missouri are just a few of the states that are getting creative with infrastructure funding and more are sure to join them as state legislative sessions continue. Click [here](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/states) to track legislation in your state and click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state/) to view your state’s Infrastructure Report Card. 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email")](mailto:?subject=States%20Are%20Back%20in%20Session%20and%20Infrastructure%20Is%20on%20the%20Agenda&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alabama, Bridges, Colorado, Connecticut, Missouri, National Category, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Alabama, Colorado, Connecticut, gas tax, Missouri, state government --- ### [Public-Private Partnerships, A Tool in the Toolbox](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/public-private-partnerships-a-tool-in-the-toolbox/) **Published:** January 23, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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private companies are an increasingly popular infrastructure financing policy tool. As public budgets continue to be squeezed; public-private partnerships (P3s) allow planners and policymakers more breathing room to invest. P3s can be an effective financing mechanism through tools such as municipal and private activity bonds, private tolls, or asset recycling. These partnerships can then take many forms including Operation and Maintenance P3s, Design-Build P3s, Design-Build-Operate P3s, and Design-Build-Operate-Transfer P3s. Although there are positive financing opportunities provided by P3s, they do not replace the need for public funding of infrastructure projects and are not a one-size-fits-all model. There are no standard criteria for awarding and implementing P3s and many financiers are unattracted by the return on investment, which can lead to investment not based on need but on financial return. Additionally,[ each state’s laws on P3 investment vary](http://www.ncsl.org/research/transportation/p3-infrastructure-delivery-principles-for-state-legislatures.aspx), ranging from no authorizing legislation to allowing for P3s in infrastructure investment. Simply put, P3s are a tool in the toolbox to fund infrastructure investments and are not the only option. All levels of government and the private sector must share in increasing infrastructure investment. Moreover, federal participation must be at the center of investment if we are to restore America’s world-class infrastructure. As the Trump Administration and Congress continue to develop infrastructure investment legislation, we urge lawmakers to support a multi-investment approach that includes heavy federal involvement, state and local participation, and P3 options. Our nation’s infrastructure cannot be repaired and modernized on private investment alone. If the United States is serious about achieving an infrastructure system fit for the 21st century, we must recognize P3 limitations and continue to encourage strong federal support. This post is part of a series in anticipation of a White House proposal on infrastructure investment. Read part one of the series on* [*ASCE’s Principles for Infrastructure Investment here*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/must-haves-for-a-federal-infrastructure-bill/) *and part two on* [*Federal Investment in Infrastructure: A Mutually Beneficial Relationship*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-investment-in-infrastructure-a-mutually-beneficial-relationship/)*.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Waste, Inland Waterways, Levees, National Category, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Schools, Solid Waste, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** financing, infrastructure, infrastructure bill, infrastructure investment, P3, P3s, public-private partnership --- ### [Potholes: On the Street and in the News](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/potholes-on-the-street-and-in-the-news/) **Published:** January 26, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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across the country. We don’t need to turn to our Weather App to know that spring will be here before we know it. Instead, we can turn to the roads, where potholes are making their yearly pre-spring appearance thanks to alternating freeze-thaw temperatures. Potholes made headlines this week as these infrastructure failures stopped traffic in [Washington, D.C.](https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Clara-Barton-Parkway-Closed-for-Pothole-Repairs-470916393.html) Holes bigger than bathtubs required emergency repairs, closing part of the Clara Barton Parkway earlier this week, just in time for those commuting from Maryland to D.C. The National Park Service stepped in to patch these man-sized potholes after commuters reported dangerously large holes that caused them to swerve around the damage or pop tires driving over it. For perspective, take a look at just how large these potholes really are! ![Collage from a tweet showing a man in a blue jacket lying inside a large pothole on a road; other images show the same man in a pothole from different angles and road crew photographing the scene.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Twitter-Adam-Tuss-337x400.jpg "Twitter, Adam Tuss") Also this week, [Pittsburgh](http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2018/01/25/pittsburgh-pothole-blitz-begins/), Pennsylvania is in the midst of “Pothole Blitz.” With over 300 potholes reported in the city, the Pittsburgh Public Works crews are working to fill as many potholes as possible within the span of a few days. Infrastructure failures on the road and in the news have shown that our surface transportation needs funding and attention. President Trump is expected to announce his infrastructure plan on Tuesday, January 30 during his State of the Union address and we hope that all of our elected leaders are thinking about how to prioritize investment for not only our surface transportation, but for each infrastructure category. It is important that they work to fix our infrastructure problems and to find innovative solutions to keep our infrastructure resilient during winters to come. To find out how your state’s roads stack up, take a look at our [State by State map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Potholes%3A%20On%20the%20Street%20and%20in%20the%20News&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, District of Columbia, Maryland, News, Pennsylvania, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Uncategorized **Tags:** Potholes, road, roads --- ### [Engineers Encouraged by President’s Focus on Infrastructure During State of Union Address](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/engineers-encouraged-by-presidents-focus-on-infrastructure-during-state-of-union-address/) **Published:** January 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20President%E2%80%99s%20Focus%20on%20Infrastructure%20During%20State%20of%20Union%20Address&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The following is a statement by Kristina Swallow, PE, President, American Society of Civil Engineers on President Trump’s State of the Union address to Congress on Jan. 30, 2018: “A year into his Presidency, the American Society of Civil Engineers is pleased that President Trump has focused national attention on improving our roads, bridges, and water systems through a major federal bill. Our existing infrastructure, which received a ‘D+’ in the [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), costs every American family an average of $3,400 a year in disposable income because it is outdated and unreliable. “Congress should seize this opportunity to provide better infrastructure to the American people in a bipartisan fashion by closing the infrastructure deficit, as President Trump proposed. Infrastructure investment is one area where both Democrats and Republicans agree. I urge Congress to develop legislation that increases federal investment in infrastructure, including fixing the Highway Trust Fund. Further this bill should make investments that provide substantial, long-term benefits to the economy, consider the cost of a project over its lifespan, and be built sustainably and resiliently to maximize investment. Using existing federal programs’ selection process as a starting place, ASCE is confident that increased investment will modernize our infrastructure, improve public health and safety, and drive our economy forward.” *Check back tomorrow for a full analysis of the President’s remarks on infrastructure during the State of the Union.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20President%E2%80%99s%20Focus%20on%20Infrastructure%20During%20State%20of%20Union%20Address&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Hazardous Waste, Inland Waterways, Levees, News, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** congress, infrastructure investment, President Trump, state of the union address --- ### [President's State of Union Lays Out Infrastructure Vision](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/presidents-state-of-union-lays-out-infrastructure-vision/) **Published:** January 31, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20Union%20Lays%20Out%20Infrastructure%20Vision&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")President Trump unveiled his much-anticipated infrastructure plan for the nation in his [first State of the Union](https://www.cnn.com/2018/01/30/politics/2018-state-of-the-union-transcript/index.html) address last night, asking Congress to produce a bipartisan package that generates at least $1.5 trillion in investment. He put an emphasis on need for federal dollars to be leveraged by state and local government funding, as well as private sector investment. Finally, he declared a desire to streamline the permitting and approval process to no more than two years. The President specifically expressed his desire to the “permanently fix the infrastructure deficit” through collaboration among the federal, state, and local governments and the private sector. ASCE puts this [funding deficit at $2 trillion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/) and agrees that [increased investment amongst all levels of government and the private sector is the key solution](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/) to raise the grades and improve our nation’s infrastructure. Infrastructure often falls on the back burner, and the President’s focus on it during the State of the Union is a promising step to push Congressional action. [ASCE released a statement from President Kristina Swallow, PE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/engineers-encouraged-by-presidents-focus-on-infrastructure-during-state-of-union-address/), which said in part, “Congress should seize this opportunity to provide better infrastructure to the American people in a bipartisan fashion by closing the infrastructure deficit, as President Trump proposed. Infrastructure investment is one area where both Democrats and Republicans agree. I urge Congress to develop legislation that increases federal investment in infrastructure, including fixing the Highway Trust Fund.” As the speech was being delivered, the White House released a fact sheet of the President’s infrastructure vision, [which you can read here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/WH-Infrastructure-Fact-Sheet-1.30.18.pdf). Highlights include: - 50% for the “Infrastructure Incentives Initiatives,” which would provide grants to state and local governments to encourage private investment. These grants would only make up 20% of the project costs and would be chosen based on factors such as potential return on investment. Furthermore, one state would not be able to receive more than 10% of the total grant money available. - 25% for the “Rural Infrastructure Program,” which would be distributed as block grants and must be used for projects in rural areas with a population of less than 50,000. Although last night’s proposal fails to identify clear sources of revenue and does not specify how much federal funding will be provided, President Trump has previously stated that he plans to invest $200 billion in federal funds, with the remaining money to come from state and local governments and private entities. Finally, ASCE remains concerned that the proposal does not address the nearly insolvent Highway Trust Fund. Our nation’s surface transportation infrastructure accounts for more than three-quarters of the overall infrastructure investment deficit, and bolstering the Trust Fund would go a long way toward closing that gap. The Fund’s primary revenue source, the federal motor fuel tax, has not been raised since 1993 and inflation has cut its real value by 40%. Congress has shored up the fund with $140 billion in general fund transfers since 2008. Between 2021 and 2026, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates Congress will need to provide an additional $121 billion to the Highway Trust Fund just to meet current obligations and maintain existing spending levels. To ensure adequate and stable funding for America’s highways, bridges and transit systems the Trust Fund needs a long-term, sustainable revenue source. Last March, ASCE released its [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*,* giving the nation’s overall infrastructure a grade of “D+,” with an investment gap of $2 trillion. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20Union%20Lays%20Out%20Infrastructure%20Vision&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Hazardous Waste, Inland Waterways, Levees, National Category, News, Ports, Public Parks, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, Wastewater **Tags:** congress, infrastructure investment, President Trump, State of the Union, White House --- ### [Analysis of Federal Bridge Data Confirms ASCE Report Card Bridge Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/analysis-of-federal-bridge-data-confirms-asce-report-card-bridge-grade/) **Published:** February 2, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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ARTBA’s Bridge Report confirms the [“C+” grade given in ASCE’s 2017 *Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridges-Final.pdf)*.* Both reports illustrate that while the overall number of bridges deemed structurally deficient is decreasing, a significant amount of work remains as many of the nation’s bridges are approaching the end of their design life. Key ARTBA Bridge Report highlights include: - 54,259 out of the nation’s 612,677, or 8.8%, of our bridges are rated structurally deficient. In 2016, 56,007 out of the nation’s 614,387, or 9.1%, of our bridges were rated structurally deficient. The Infrastructure Report Card noted the trend that the number of structurally deficient bridges was decreasing steadily. - The nation’s 54,259 structurally deficient bridges are crossed 174 million times every day. - The average age of a structurally deficient bridge is 67 years and for a non-deficient bridge, the average age is 40 years, illuminating the point that many bridges are beyond their useful life. - 226,837, or one in three, of our nation’s bridges have identified repair needs. - 17,726, or one in three, interstate highway bridges have identified repair needs. - At least 15% of the bridges in six states—Rhode Island (23%), Iowa (21%), West Virginia (19%), South Dakota (19%), Pennsylvania (18%) and Nebraska (15 percent)—fall in the structurally deficient category. These states coincide with those pointed to in the Report Card. - States with the most structurally deficient bridges include Iowa (5,067), Pennsylvania (4,173), Oklahoma (3,234), Missouri (3,086), Illinois (2,303), Nebraska (2,258), Kansas (2,115), Mississippi (2,008), North Carolina (1,854), and New York (1,834). States/Federal District with the least structurally deficient bridges include the District of Columbia (8), Nevada (31), Delaware (39), Hawaii (66), and Utah (87). The subpar condition of our bridges is a result of an inability to properly fund our current bridge needs, with the most recent estimate putting our nation’s backlog of bridge rehabilitation needs at $123 billion. ASCE recommends that to raise our bridge grade from a “C+”, we must: - Fix the federal Highway Trust Fund by raising the federal motor fuels tax by 25 cents. States must ensure their funding mechanisms (motor fuels taxes or other) are sufficient to fund needed investment in bridges. - Increase funding from all levels of government to continue reducing the number of structurally deficient bridges, decrease the maintenance backlog, and address the large number of bridges that have passed or are approaching the end of their design life. - Have bridge owners consider the costs across a bridge’s entire lifecycle to make smart design decisions and prioritize maintenance and rehabilitation - States should ensure their funding mechanisms (motor fuels taxes or other) are sufficient to fund needed investment in bridges. - States and the federal government should consider long-term funding solutions for transportation infrastructure and potential alternatives to the motor fuel taxes, including further study and piloting of mileage-based user fees. As the Trump Administration and Congress continue to develop infrastructure investment legislation, we urge lawmakers to support our nation’s safety and economy through strong leadership in bridge investment. 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mechanisms](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/) and [innovative, resilient](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/preparing-for-the-future/) infrastructure, ASCE is happy to support two recent pieces of legislation that provide creative solutions to our nation’s aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems. Last week, U.S. Senators [John Boozman (R-AR),](https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=5DEC61E7-6C6C-44B1-AFA6-09349661D012) Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), and Diane Feinstein (D-CA) introduced [S. 2364,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/2364/text) the “Securing Required Funding for Water Infrastructure Now Act,” or the SRF WIN Act, to help tackle our nation’s aging drinking water and wastewater systems. A House companion bill, [H.R. 4902](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4902), was introduced by Congressmen John Katko (R-NY) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). Last fall, Congressmen Denny Heck (D-WA) and John Katko (R-NY) introduced [H.R. 3906](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/3906/cosponsors), the Innovative Stormwater Infrastructure Act of 2017. Despite increased efficiency methods and sustainable practices, there is a growing gap between the capital needed to maintain drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and the actual investments made. In fact, ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave our nation’s [drinking water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) a grade of “D” and our nation’s [wastewater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/), which includes stormwater, a grade of “D+.” By 2025, the disparity between needed and anticipated funding for drinking water and wastewater systems will be $105 billion if we continue on our current trajectory. Well-maintained public drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems are critical for public health, strong businesses, and clean waters and aquifers. However, funding capital projects and operations and maintenance (O&M) is difficult because the public often does not appreciate the modern convenience of drinking water and wastewater treatment, making it difficult to convey the need for rate increases. Furthermore, capital spending has not kept pace with needs, and if these trends continue, the funding gap will only widen, resulting in more leaking pipes, combined sewer overflows (CSOs), source water pollution, and escalating O&M costs. The SRF WIN Act seeks to help states fund critically important drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects by using a combination of the most successful aspects of both the [Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2014-water-resources-reform-development-act/) and the [State Revolving Funds (SRFs).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water/) This new program builds on the leveraging concept in WIFIA to provide a minimum of $50 billion in new funds for State Infrastructure Financing Authorities to utilize. It’s also worth noting that this program’s funding is contingent upon annual appropriations equal to Fiscal Year 2017 funding levels for the SRFs and WIFIA. ASCE [supports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_Letter-of-Support_10.10.17.pdf) this [bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_House-Letter-of-Support_2.2.18.pdf) because it offers a new and efficient tool to leverage limited federal resources and stimulate additional investment in our nation’s infrastructure while safeguarding against any cuts to the existing SRF and WIFIA programs. The Innovative Stormwater Infrastructure Act of 2017 establishes up to five nationwide centers of excellence, invests in community-based stormwater control projects, and promotes public-private partnerships in the design and construction of innovative stormwater control infrastructure. ASCE [supports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_Innovative-Stormwater-Infrastructure-Act_Letter-of-Support_1.30.18.pdf)this bill’s efforts to promote the use of green stormwater infrastructure. Green infrastructure uses the natural environment to manage stormwater with practices such as permeable pavements, rain gardens, and rainwater harvesting systems; these green infrastructure systems provide co-benefits such as water quality improvement, aesthetic value to communities, and cost competitiveness with more gray forms of infrastructure. It is crucial that sustained, significant, and strategic investments from all levels of government and the private sector are made so that we can repair and modernize our nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems. ASCE believes our lawmakers must prioritize the investment needs of these critical infrastructure systems to ensure public health, a strong economy, and clean and safe water sources. ASCE has been busy advocating on Capitol Hill in support of these bills, and we urge you [to contact your Member of Congress to ask them to co-sponsor these important drinking water and wastewater infrastructure pieces of legislation](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=433433). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Proposed%20Water%20Legislation%20Aims%20to%20Address%20Funding%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** alternative financing, Drinking Water, green infrastructure, innovation, stormwater, wastewater --- ### [Civil Engineers React to President Trump's Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-react-to-president-trumps-infrastructure-plan/) **Published:** February 11, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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President Kristina Swallow, PE, regarding the Trump Administration’s proposed infrastructure plan for our roads, bridges, water systems and other infrastructure assets. “The American Society of Civil Engineers has been warning of the safety and economic implications of our deteriorating infrastructure for the past 20 years. The Infrastructure Report Card has yet to give an overall grade higher than a ‘D+.’ The Trump Administration’s plan is a solid first step in having a real conversation about solutions for the nation’s aging infrastructure and a path to address our infrastructure investment deficit. “Now it’s time for Congress to develop a bill that can pass with bipartisan support. If we are going to work on infrastructure, we should do this right and seize the opportunity to modernize our infrastructure and put us on a path for increased economic prosperity. This bill should increase federal investment including a long-term, sustainable fix to the Highway Trust Fund. Congress should not squander this opportunity for the American people, who are currently losing $3,400 a year in disposable income because of our outdated and inadequate infrastructure.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Civil%20Engineers%20React%20to%20President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Civil%20Engineers%20React%20to%20President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Civil%20Engineers%20React%20to%20President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Plan&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, infrastructure bill, White House --- ### [President Trump Releases Much Anticipated Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-releases-much-anticipated-infrastructure-plan/) **Published:** February 12, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=President%20Trump%20Releases%20Much%20Anticipated%20Infrastructure%20Plan&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=President%20Trump%20Releases%20Much%20Anticipated%20Infrastructure%20Plan "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Releases%20Much%20Anticipated%20Infrastructure%20Plan&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Trump Administration has officially released an [infrastructure proposal](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/INFRASTRUCTURE-211.pdf) calling for $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments, with $200 billion of direct federal spending over the course of 10 years. The federal investment is meant to spur investments from state and local governments and private investors. The proposal is divided into four main parts: funding and financing infrastructure improvements, additional provisions for infrastructure improvements, infrastructure permitting improvements, and workforce development. The plan does not identify a way to pay for the $200 billion in Federal investment, nor does it offer a plan to address the looming insolvency of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). The Administration says that this plan will not add to the federal deficit, which means that funds must either come at the expense of other non-mandatory federal programs or the funding will be raised through a new source of revenue. ASCE President Kristina Swallow released a statement in response to the proposal, which can be viewed [here.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-react-to-president-trumps-infrastructure-plan/) **Funding & Financing Infrastructure Improvements** **Incentives Program:** $100 billion federal incentive (or 50%) program to encourage state, local, and private investment by awarding project sponsors incentives for generating revenue, reducing timelines and improving performance. These funds would constitute 20% of the project costs and would be chosen based on factors such as potential return on investment. Incentive dollars will be administered through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), United States Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). **Rural Infrastructure Program:** $50 billion in federal funds (or 25%) will be made available for capital investments in transportation, water resources, drinking water and wastewater, broadband, and energy infrastructure projects in rural areas with populations of less than 50,000. The bulk of this funding will be distributed to states via formula as block grants. **Transformative Projects:** $20 billion in federal funds (or 10%) will be dedicated to high-risk, high-reward transportation, clean water, drinking water, commercial space, telecommunications, and energy infrastructure projects. Three pots of funding will be made available to support three different project lifecycle phases (demonstration, project planning, capital construction). **Infrastructure Financing Programs**: $20 billion (or 10%) will be directed to increasing the existing Federal credit programs and broaden the use of Private Activity Bonds (PABs). $14 billion will be used to expand existing credit programs including Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA), Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF), Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), and Agriculture Rural Utilities Service (RUS). $6 billion will be spent on expanding PABs, and remaining funds will be diverted to the Federal capital financing fund. **Federal Capital Revolving Fund**: $10 billion (or 5%) will be used to establish a mandatory revolving fund to finance purchases, construction or renovation of federally owned civilian real property. Currently, federal government real estate deals are made during the annual appropriations process. **Public Lands Infrastructure:** This provision would establish an “Interior Maintenance Fund” to help reduce the deferred maintenance infrastructure backlog at our National Parks. The fund would be financed using revenues the government collects in royalties from current and expanded onshore and offshore production of oil, gas, coal, and other mineral operations. **Additional Provisions for Infrastructure Improvements** **Transportation:** The plan calls for alternative project delivery and financing for our highways, transit, rail, and airport infrastructure. Specifically, the plan allows states to toll on existing interstates and “commercialize” rest areas, transfer permitting authority to states and transfer unused funds back to federal government, apply FAST Act streaming to rail projects, and reduce barriers to encourage alternative project delivery for airports. **Water Resources:** The proposal authorizes the USACE to enter into public-private partnerships (P3s) to use Inland Waterways Trust Fund revenues for the construction, repair, rehabilitation, and maintenance and operation of inland water projects. It also includes several provisions to remove barriers to implementation of USACE projects, including those relating to Section 5014 of the Water Resources and Reform Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014 – the agency’s [P3 pilot project authorization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/), of which ASCE has been a long-time advocate. In fact, [ASCE’s Coasts, Oceans, Ports, and Rivers Institute](https://www.asce.org/coasts-oceans-ports-and-rivers-engineering/coasts,-oceans,-ports-and-rivers-institute/)’s Subcommittee on Alternative Financing of Waterways Infrastructure released a 2016 [report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ASCE-Alt-Finance-for-Waterways-FINAL-12.7.17.pdf) on the new authorization; several of the report’s recommendations are included in President Trump’s infrastructure plan. **Brownfield and Superfund Reform:** This proposal creates a Superfund Revolving Loan Fund to facilitate new investment into Superfund cleanup, as well as a new Brownfield grants programs for National Priorities List sites, which are currently not eligible for Brownfield grants. **Infrastructure Permitting Improvement** This proposal restructures federal environmental review and permitting for major infrastructure projects through a series of reforms, including having one lead agency steer the environmental review process; allowing agencies to conduct their reviews concurrently, rather than sequentially; and eliminating Section 309 of the Clean Air Act, which requires EPA to review, comment on and rate other agencies’ Environmental Impact Statements in an effort to reduce the permitting process to no more than 2 years. These provisions will codify parts of President Trump’s August 2017 [Presidential Executive Order on Establishing Discipline and Accountability in the Environmental Review and Permitting Process for Infrastructure.](https://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2017/08/15/presidential-executive-order-establishing-discipline-and-accountability) **Workforce Development** Under the proposal, the Administration aims to increase the training opportunities in the construction trades to meet the increased demand that will come from the increased infrastructure investment. Increased job opportunity will be developed through expanded Pell grant eligibility, technical education, and licensing reform. We are encouraged that President Trump has taken the first step and released his own set of of guiding infrastructure principals. Similarly, [ASCE has its own principles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ASCE-Infrastructure-Investment-Principles-.pdf) for investing in our nation’s infrastructure which include: - Ensuring dedicated public funding sources on all levels are consistently and sufficiently funded from user-generated fees, with infrastructure trust funds never used to pay for or offset other parts of a budget. - Fixing the Highway Trust Fund by raising the federal motor fuel tax to ensure long-term, sustainable funding for the federal surface transportation program. - Authorizing programs to improve specific categories of deficient infrastructure and support that commitment by fully funding them in an expedient, prioritized manner. - Ensuring infrastructure owners and operators charge, and Americans are willing to pay, rates and fees that reflect the true cost of using, maintaining, and improving all infrastructure, including our water, waste, transportation, and energy services. In ASCE’s *2017 Report Card*, our overall infrastructure grade was a “D+” with an infrastructure investment deficit of $2 trillion over 10 years. In order to raise our grade and compete in the global economy, we need strong investment and leadership. We look forward to working with Congress and the Trump Administration on addressing our infrastructure deficit and building a stronger nation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Releases%20Fiscal%20Year%202019%20Budget%20Request&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")President Trump released a $4 trillion Fiscal Year 2019 budget request entitled “[Efficient, Effective, Accountable: Am American Budget](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/budget-fy2019.pdf)” this week, just days after signing a massive two-year [budget deal](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/Bipartisan%20Budget%20Act%20of%202018.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) into law that provides about $300 billion in new spending over two years, including roughly $141 billion for non-defense spending. The President’s budget document contains a 26-page addendum to reflect the budget deal’s additional FY19 funds. Unlike previous Republican budgets, this budget proposal does not attempt to balance the federal budget over 10 years, leaving the federal government with a $445 billion deficit by the end of the decade. It cuts non-defense, domestic spending by $3.6 trillion and assumes more than $1 trillion in savings from repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act, overhauling welfare programs, limiting federal financial aid, and other cuts. It also assumes that the new tax overhaul will spur $814 billion in new growth. The [House](https://appropriations.house.gov/) and [Senate](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/) Committees on Appropriation allocate the nation’s federal funds in their 12 annual appropriations bills, giving them final control over the government’s purse strings. (Since Congress has not passed a full FY18 budget or omnibus, we will be comparing this proposal to FY17 enacted funding levels.) [**U.S. Department of Transportation**](https://www.transportation.gov/sites/dot.gov/files/docs/mission/budget/304476/508-dot-bh2019.pdf) Under this budget request, the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) would be funded at $15.6 billion in discretionary spending, a 19% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $19.3 billion. The addendum calls for an extra $300 million. USDOT mandatory programs would be funded at $60.9 billion, or $2.3 billion more than FY17 enacted levels. The budget includes $200 billion to support President Trump’s infrastructure proposal; it’s not included with USDOT funding recommendations but is included in the President’s overall request. Within the Office of the Secretary, the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) program would be eliminated. Remaining budget cuts would bring the Research and Technology program from $13 million to $7 million; Transportation Planning, Research, and Development from $12 million to $7 million; and the Cyber Security Initative from $15 million to $10 million. The National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau would remain at $3 million. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) would be funded at $45.7 billion, $2 billion more than the FY17 enacted level. The Federal Highway Program’s budget for highways would conform to the amount enacted in the FAST Act ($56.6 billion). There are no new proposals to address the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF) after FY21. Furthermore, the budget would change the presentation of HTF data, assuming that reimbursements to state and local governments will decrease starting in 2021. Regarding mass transit, the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) would receive $11.2 billion, $9.9 billion of which is the obligation limitation on HTF contract authority provided in the FAST Act. The budget request proposes to stop funding new projects under the Capital Investment Grants program, directly impacting new light rail and subway systems. $1 billion is requested to pay the FY19 installments of projects already under construction, and no new funding for any multi-year full funding grant agreements is requested. Rail program funding is requested at $854 million for the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA), $997 million less than the FY17 enacted level. $200 million is directed for FRA operations, and the railroad research and development account would be cut in half from the FY17 enacted level of $40.1 million to $19.6 million. Furthermore, the budget would stop Amtrak Inspector General funding at $23.3 million and would encourage a net $35.85 million for the Surface Transportation Board. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would be funded at $16.1 billion. Pending reauthorization, the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) would be kept at $3.35 billion —the level at which it has been since FY12. The budget request for the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration totals $254 million, nearly $10 million less than FY17 enacted levels. [**U.S. Army Corps of Engineers**](http://www.aldenst.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/FY2019_Army_CW_Budget_Pressbook_08Feb2018.pdf) This budget request would fund the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at $4.8 billion, a more than 20% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $6 billion, and it proposes no new construction projects in FY19. USACE’s construction account, which currently has a backlog of $75 billion, would receive $1 billion, a 50% cut compared to FY17 enacted levels. The Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, which is designed to pay for dredging in harbors, would receive $932 million, a 28% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $1.3 billion. Furthermore, the Administration has proposed cutting the Harbor Maintenance Tax (HMT) to align with the fund’s actual spending levels. The fund currently collects its revenue through a 0.125% user fee on the value of the cargo in imported containers. However, since 2003, HMT collections have been higher than the funds appropriated for harbor maintenance; it is estimated that the surplus of collections over expenditures is $9 billion. Frequently, this surplus is used for other purposes, including federal deficit offsets. ASCE has been [supportive](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Ports-Final.pdf) of Congressional efforts to guarantee that 100% of fees collected by the HMTF be allocated for its intended purpose by 2025. Although this budget request seeks to cut the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund user fee, it proposes charging an annual per-vessel fee for commercial users of the nation’s inland waterways to be used to finance future capital waterways investments and operations and maintenance (O&M). Currently, waterways construction and O&M costs are split between the federal government and inland waterways users. The Inland Waterways Trust Fund (IWTF) is a supported by a 29 cents/gallon tax on barge fuel; these revenues pay for 50% of waterways capital investment. The federal government funds the other 50% of capital investment, as well as full O&M costs. According to the Administration, this new fee would raise over $1.7 billion in the next 10 years that would finance barge owners’ 50% share of capital investments and 10% of O&M costs. Finally, the Administration has requested $200 million for USACE’s regulatory program, which is working with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to re-write the Obama-era Waters of the U.S. rule, as well as $431 million for dam safety projects. The addendum does not request extra funding for the USACE. [**U.S. Environmental Protection Agency**](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-02/documents/fy-2019-epa-bib.pdf) This budget request would fund the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at $5.4 billion, a more than 33% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $8 billion. The addendum calls for an extra $724 million, bringing the request to $6.1 billion, which is still a 23% cut compared to FY17 enacted levels. The budget request reorganizes agency spending around the Administration’s goals, categorizing 71% of spending as going toward the agency’s “core mission” and 25% for “rule of law and process,” or the cutting back of rules and regulations. The remaining funds are allocated for the agency to work with states that implement federal laws. This proposal would cut the number of full-time EPA employees from 15,408 down to 12,250 – a 20% reduction of the agency’s workforce. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRFs and DWSRFs, respectively), which provide low-interest loans for investments in water and sanitation infrastructure, would receive $1.86 billion, or about a 7% decrease from the FY17 enacted level of $2.01 billion. However, the addendum adds an extra $397 million to the SRF programs, bringing the total funding to $2.25 billion. The proposal would fund the EPA’s Office of Science and Technology at $449 million, a 37% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $714 million. It requests $718 million for Superfund clean-ups, a less than 1% increase compared to the FY17 enacted level of $713 million. However, the addendum adds an extra $327 million to the program. Under this budget request, the Chesapeake Bay Program and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative would be funded at $7.3 million and $30 million, respectively, and the funds could only be used for monitoring activities; the current funding for these programs supports a range of monitoring, clean-up, restoration, and planning activities. The funding for both programs is a 90% cut compared to the FY17 enacted funding level of $73 million and $300 million. However, it is an increase from the President’s FY18 budget request, which eliminated both programs. Other requests from this proposal include $20 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA), which is the same request as last year; eliminating EPA’s authority over the Clean Water Act Section 404 and turning full authority over to the USACE; administering the agency’s Energy Star program through user fees instead of federal funds; and eliminating the Lead Risk Reduction Program, the U.S. Chemical Safety Board, and the Clean Air and Global Climate Change account. [**Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)**](https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/DHS%20FY19%20BIB.pdf) Under this budget request, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood mapping and risk analysis program would be funded at $100 million, a 43% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $178 million. The Administration’s explanation for this cut is to “preserve resources for the Department of Homeland Security’s core mission” and asserts that state and local governments can jump in with their own funds to fill the gap. The budget also proposes a new $522 million grant program aimed at hazard preparation. **Science Agencies** The federal science agencies had a whirlwind budget day as many of the original deep cuts to science programs were rescinded by the addendum. The original numbers included a 21% cut to overall basic research, a 27% cut at the [National Institutes of Health](https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/fy-2019-budget-in-brief.pdf) (NIH), a 29% cut to the [National Science Foundation](https://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=244509&org=NSF&from=news) (NSF), and a 22% cut to the [Department of Energy’s](https://energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2018/02/f48/Energy%20Department%20FY%202019%20Budget%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf) (DOE’s) Office of Science. With the addendum, cuts at NIH, NSF, and DOE evaporate and are replaced with research budgets that are roughly flat at 2017 levels: $34.8 billion for NIH, $7.5 billion for NSF, and $5.4 billion for DOE’s science programs. Considering the addendum to the budget, funding for the National Science Foundation (NSF) would be maintained at FY17 levels, or $7.472 billion. The request allocates $6 billion for its six research directorates which would grow by $145 million, or 2%. The bump is largely thanks to the proposed start of an upgrade to Antarctic research facilities, although NSF officials don’t yet have an exact figure. NSF’s education directorate would stay flat at $819 million. The biggest change would occur in NSF’s account for large new facilities; it would drop by more than half, to $95 million, because NSF is requesting money for only two of the three midsized research vessels that Congress has instructed it to build. The budget request calls for the elimination of the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy, (ARPA-E). The agency received $180 million in FY17. The budget request also calls for canceling five [National Aeronautics and Space Administrations](https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/nasa_fy_2019_budget_overview.pdf) (NASA) earth science missions, including an operating Earth-facing camera on the Deep Space Climate Observatory satellite and the planned Plankton, Aerosol, Cloud, Ocean Ecosystem satellite, set for launch in 2022, which would assess the ocean’s health and its interactions with the atmosphere. Overall, the President’s request is for $19.9 billion for the space agency, a $372 million increase over FY17 enacted levels. The [National Institutes of Standards and Technology](http://www.osec.doc.gov/bmi/budget/FY19BIB/FinalBiBFY2019.pdf) (NIST), which develops compliance standards on everything from cybersecurity to digital authentication to information sharing for both industry and government, would face a massive cut in fund and personnel under the White House budget proposal. Under the FY19 spending plan, the Administration would defund NIST by more than a third of what it received in FY17. The proposal gives NIST a $629 million budget, more than a $316 million reduction from its FY17 enacted level. In addition, the budget document would also cut NIST’s workforce by nearly 400 employees — more than a 15% reduction. The budget request would fund the [U.S. Geological Society](https://www.doi.gov/sites/doi.gov/files/uploads/2019_highlights_book.pdf) (USGS) at $860 million, a 20% cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $1.03 billion. It allocates $13 million in funding for just three of the eight regional climate science centers and one national climate adaptation center. All other climate change research programs would be moved to a new “land resources” program. The proposal calls for funding the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration](http://www.osec.doc.gov/bmi/budget/FY19BIB/FinalBiBFY2019.pdf) (NOAA) at $4.6 billion, a 20% cut from the FY17 enacted level of $5.52 billion. It also requests eliminating the National Sea Grant College Program, the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, coastal zone management grants, the Office of Education, and the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund. The budget request would fund the [Nuclear Regulatory Commission](https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/news/2018/18-005.pdf) (NRC) at $971 million, slightly more than a 6% increase compared to the FY17 enacted level of $911 million. Despite the increased funding, the Administration has requested a 4% decrease in the agency’s workforce, or a cut of 149 full-time employees. The proposal also asks for $48 million to support activities for the proposed Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Requires%20Attention%20in%20the%20Land%20of%20Lincoln&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [*2018 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/illinois/), released today, gave the state an overall grade of a “C-.” 10 categories of infrastructure were assessed by a group of nearly 30 civil engineers from around the state. Illinois’ overall GPA remained unchanged from the *2014 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure,* an indication that the state has skirted responsibility over the past four years for improving the overall health and condition of its bridges, dams, drinking water pipes, roads network, and more. The report further finds that the state is in danger of losing its unique competitive economic advantage being at the crossroads of the country’s rail, air, roadway, and waterway systems, due to chronic underinvestment and decreased prioritization of infrastructure. The *2018 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure* assigned aviation and rail the highest grade of “C+”, while navigable waterways received the lowest grade of “D-”. Bridges and dams both earned “Cs”, drinking water, ports and wastewater each earned a “C-”, and roads and transit both received “Ds.” ASCE’s civil engineers found that in many cases, localities, the state and the federal government have failed to make necessary investments, in many cases due to the absence of sufficient and long-term funding. The capacity and condition of Illinois’ roads, transit systems, and inland waterways were of concern; those categories of infrastructure were graded the lowest by Illinois’ civil engineers and continue to face grapple with insufficient funding. In addition to assessing Illinois’ infrastructure, ASCE’s civil engineers also issued a series of recommendations to raise the grade. These included a directive to decision-makers to prioritize infrastructure, consistently pass balanced budgets and develop new revenue sources, pass a capital plan, and capitalize on existing geographic and economic advantages. Additionally, the *2018 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure* emphasizes the need to consider emerging technologies and shifting social and economic trends as the state designs for future infrastructure, with clear economic, social, and environmental benefits in mind. The *2018 Report Card for Illinois’ Infrastructure* was created as a public service to citizens and policymakers of the state to inform them of the infrastructure needs in their community. By using school report card letter grades, civil engineers used their expertise to condense complicated data into an easy-to-understand analysis. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about ASCE’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/illinois/). 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Requires%20Attention%20in%20the%20Land%20of%20Lincoln&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Fix the Federal Budget Process to Help Improve America's Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/fix-the-federal-budget-process-to-help-improve-americas-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 1, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pallasch, Managing Director, Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives, American Society of Civil Engineers For decades, Congress has repeatedly failed to pass a budget on time, speeding toward budget deadlines as if we have miles of roadway ahead of us, when in reality, we’re laying down roadway as we are driving over it. This has only led to repeated crises—our government has shut down 20 times since 1976. If this were a bridge, we’d rate it as structurally deficient. Unfortunately, Congress has failed to confront and correct the problem: our budget *process* is broken and needs fixing. I view this fundamentally as an engineering issue, and engineering problems are solvable—with enough hard work and smart planning engineers can reinforce a levee, repair a bridge, or build a road that stands the test of time. Legislative problems are solvable, too, so long as you work together to fix them. Fortunately, we have some solutions. I partnered with a bipartisan coalition of budget and policy experts to create a blueprint for what these reforms could—and should—look like. Our group included government affairs professionals like myself representing veterans, millennials, children, universities, businesses, and [so many other groups](http://www.convergencepolicy.org/confirmed-participants/). Earlier this week, we delivered that plan, the Convergence Building a Better Budget Process Project, outlining the following steps: 1. **Create A Budget Action Plan—**negotiated by the President and Congress at the beginning of a new Congress and enacted into law—to synchronize the budget cycle with the electoral cycle and to change expectations for the process. The plan would make certain key fiscal decisions – setting discretionary funding levels and adjusting the debt limit, for example – for a two-year period. 2. **Issue a Fiscal State of the Nation Report,** published every four years at a key point in the national election cycle, to make the federal budget more accessible to the American public and elevate the discourse about the country’s finances. 3. **Conduct a review of the performance of portfolios of federal programs** that involve long-term or inter-generational commitments (e.g., retirement security, health coverage, education or national security). This review conducted by Congress, through the Government Accountability Office, would reinforce the importance of the long-term effects of budget decisions. 4. **Strengthen the Budget Committees** by revising the membership rules and assigning responsibility to create new expectations for the budget process so that Congress and the public can expect more timely action on budget decisions. 5. **Invest in agencies that support the congressional budget process,** including the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), so these institutions can continue to provide high-quality and independent information the nation relies on in making budgetary choices. We’ve drawn up plans to fix it, but now it’s up to Congress to act. I hope the members of the [new select committee tasked with overhauling the budget](https://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/senate-democrats-picked-select-budget-pension-committees) process takes action. Failing to confront a problem over and over just makes it worse. That’s the thing about deferred maintenance—eventually it catches up to you. The Convergence group’s full report may be found [here](http://www.convergencepolicy.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/B3P-Report-Final.pdf). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Fix%20the%20Federal%20Budget%20Process%20to%20Help%20Improve%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, federal budget --- ### [ASCE Gives Michigan Infrastructure a D+](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-gives-michigan-infrastructure-a-d/) **Published:** March 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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of a “D+.” Much of the state’s infrastructure is reaching the end of its useful life and continues to threaten the state’s lakes, rivers, drinking water, and public health and safety. 13 categories of infrastructure were assessed by a group of expert civil engineers, and of those 13, nine categories were in mediocre condition and four were in poor condition. Michigan’s infrastructure ranged from the highest grade of “C+” for Solid Waste to the lowest grade of “D-” for Roads and Stormwater. The 2018 report finds that much of Michigan’s infrastructure is old and outdated. In older cities, some systems date back to the late 1800s. Additionally, from 2009 to 2015, Michigan suffered from an economic downturn, and aging infrastructure systems were further impacted by underinvestment trends. The collective value of the personal and economic advantages that come from a robust infrastructure network are at risk, and Michigan’s residents and policymakers must prioritize infrastructure to mitigate these threats. The release of Michigan’s grades is timely. As the seasons change and snow melts, Michigan’s roads have received attention in recent weeks. The “D-” category grade is reflective of the fact that just 18% of the state’s roads are in good condition. Also of concern is the state’s drinking water systems, which earned a “D,” in part due to the estimated $284 – $563 million annual funding gap. Michigan’s residents are also contending with a poor schools’ grade. Public school facilities in the state earned a “D+,” and the *2018 Report Card for Michigan’s Infrastructure* found that nearly every district in the state has aging facilities. In addition to publishing the *2018 Report Card for Michigan’s Infrastructure*, ASCE members made recommendations on how to improve the grades. First, Michigan must support innovative policies. In addition to continuing to lead in the autonomous vehicle and freight movement spaces, the state must enact policies that facilitate high-quality data gathering and put asset management practices into placeSecond, state funding must be increased. While the Michigan legislature took first steps to increase transportation investment in 2015, much more must be done, including continuation of efforts to redesign the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water Revolving Fund. Third, ASCE Michigan recommends the prioritization of public health and safety, in part by properly maintaining existing infrastructure. Finally, ASCE’s civil engineers recommend to their fellow citizens that they be informed, be vocal, and learn more about infrastructure needs. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about ASCE Michigan’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/michigan/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Gives%20Michigan%20Infrastructure%20a%20D%2B&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Senate Democrats Release New Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-democrats-release-new-infrastructure-plan/) **Published:** March 7, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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plan](https://www.democrats.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-democrats-in-contrast-with-president-trump-unveil-major-infrastructure-investment-proposal_dem-plan-would-roll-back-tax-cuts-for-the-wealthy-to-fund-infrastructure-and-create-millions-of-jobs) in response to President Trump’s Infrastructure Principles released in early February. Under the Senate Democrats jobs and infrastructure plan, there would be a $1 trillion federal investment to modernize our deteriorating infrastructure. ASCE President Kristina Swallow released a statement, highlighting that the Society is pleased that the plan includes strong federal investment, and offers a solution to the Highway Trust Fund’s solvency for the next 10 years. Further, she urged Congress to act, saying “With both parties’ leadership now putting forth infrastructure plans, it’s time to turn this conversation into legislative action. Each day that Congress delays passing an infrastructure bill with strong federal investment including a long-term fix to the Highway Trust Fund, every American family loses $9 because of the inconveniences that come from our outdated infrastructure.” This $1 trillion investment would be paid for by revisiting the recently passed tax legislation. Transportation infrastructure investment under this proposal would include: $140 billion to ensure Highway Trust Fund solvency over the next decade; plus an additional $140 billion to repair our nation’s roads and bridges; $10 billion for TIGER program expansion; $115 billion to repair and improve public transportation; $50 billion to modernize and improve our rail infrastructure; $40 billion for a new Vital Infrastructure Program (VIP) to support new transportation infrastructure megaprojects which greatly improve transportation networks; $30 billion to promote innovative transportation; $40 billion to improve our airports; $25 billion for resilient community development; and $ 20 billion in innovative financing tools. Water resources infrastructure investment would include: $115 billion to modernize the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems, of which $92 billion will be split among the Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Funds, while the remaining $23 billion will go to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development and Water and Waste Water Grant Program; $30 billion for our ports and inland waterways, of which $25 billion will go to address the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers backlog of projects; $15 billion to address the deferred maintenance backlog on our federal public parks and lands, of which $5 billion will go to address the National Park Service’s deferred maintenance backlog, while another $4 billion will fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund; and $80 billion to bring innovation to our nation’s energy grid and to promote clean energy, including the consolidation of all existing renewable energy tax credits into three new tax incentive programs. 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giving the state an overall grade of a “C-.” Idaho is now the fastest growing state in the country, and local and state leaders are being encouraged by ASCE members to proactively prepare the state’s infrastructure for a much larger population. Seven categories of infrastructure were assessed in the 2018 report, and of those seven, two categories were in good condition, three were in mediocre condition, and one was in poor condition. Idaho’s infrastructure ranged from the highest grade of “B-” for energy and wastewater to the lowest grade of “D” for bridges. The last *Report Card for Idaho’s Infrastructure* was released in 2012 and the state earned a “C-.” The *2018 Report Card for Idaho’s Infrastructure* finds that while Idaho has built some new projects to keep up with growth, other assets are deteriorating and past their useful lives. The bridge stock across Idaho is aging; the state reports needing $2.2 billion to address deterioration and replace existing assets. Additionally, while the Idaho legislature has made strides in identifying funding for the state’s 75,000 lane-miles of highways and roads, available funding is insufficient to meet current and future demands. Over the next 20 years, the state will experience a $3.6 billion shortfall if funding remains stagnant. In addition to offering an assessment of Idaho’s infrastructure, ASCE members issued recommendations to raise the grades in the *2018 Report Card for Idaho’s Infrastructure.* Included in those recommendations are directives to state and local decision-makers to be proactive in the approach to funding, maintaining, and improving infrastructure to meet the ever-increasing need. Additionally, ASCE recommends increasing local infrastructure investment, specifically through passage of local funding initiatives and the promotion of polices aimed at empowering local entities that are prioritizing infrastructure. Third, the Report Card recommends residents and lawmakers focus on critical infrastructure to allow for continued safety of the public. Finally, civil engineers urge citizens of Idaho to take a stand and get engaged with decision-makers to make the case that the built world is critical to the state’s economy and way of life. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about ASCE Idaho’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/idaho/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Idaho%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Stalls%20at%20a%20C-&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [A Look Back: One Year With the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-look-back-one-year-with-the-2017-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** March 9, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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celebrates its one-year anniversary today. Referenced by champions of infrastructure investment across the nation, the Report Card reminds us that with long-term investment, smart leadership, and preparation for the future, our nation’s D+ infrastructure problems are solvable. Since its release at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. last March, the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card has been the go-to advocacy tool for reporters and spokespeople when discussing the state of America’s infrastructure. This snapshot of our infrastructure system announced that the overall grade of America’s infrastructure remained unchanged from the 2013 Infrastructure Report Card. It detailed that our roads, bridges and transit systems remained in poor condition, proving that in this case, no news is bad news. Take a look at how the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card has been used as a tool to advocate for better infrastructure over the past year. **BBC News** [https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/KQET\_01-29-2018\_14.50.43.mp4](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/KQET_01-29-2018_14.50.43.mp4) **Bloomberg** [Surface Transportation Is An Infrastructure Priority](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/audio/2018-02-15/surface-transportation-is-an-infrastructure-priority-swallow) **CBS News** [Renovation nation: The prospects for repairing America’s infrastructure](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/renovation-nation-the-prospects-for-repairing-americas-infrastructure/) [Behind Trump’s infrastructure plan outlined in State of the Union address](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/state-of-the-union-trump-infrastructure/) **MSNBC** [https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/MSNBC\_02-12-2018\_11.21.26.mp4](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/MSNBC_02-12-2018_11.21.26.mp4) **NPR** [Civil Engineers Give U.S. Infrastructure A Near Failing Grade](https://www.npr.org/2017/03/10/519593247/civil-engineers-give-u-s-infrastructure-a-near-failing-grade) **The Washington Post** [Trump promised $1 trillion for infrastructure, but the estimated need is $4.5 trillion](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/trump-promises-1-trillion-for-infrastructure-but-the-estimated-need-is-45-trillion/2017/03/08/2f2eca7c-0414-11e7-ad5b-d22680e18d10_story.html?utm_term=.5f0499c1aa9d) Unfortunately, while there has been a lot of talk about infrastructure in the past year, there’s been little action—especially at the federal level. With the President and Senate Democrats both releasing plans, now is the time for Congress to take up legislation that puts the Report Card’s solutions of investment, leadership and planning, and preparation for the future in action. 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email")](mailto:?subject=A%20Look%20Back%3A%20One%20Year%20With%20the%202017%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, infrastructure report card, media, Report Card for America's Infrastructure --- ### [Minnesota & Wisconsin’s Twin Ports Region Receives a “C” in 2018 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/minnesota-wisconsins-twin-ports-region-receives-a-c-in-2018-report-card/) **Published:** March 12, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Minnesota%20%26%20Wisconsin%E2%80%99s%20Twin%20Ports%20Region%20Receives%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20in%202018%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The *2018 Report Card for the Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure*, released today, gives infrastructure in 10 northeast Minnesota counties and six northwest Wisconsin counties an overall grade of a “C.” The report finds that while the region’s infrastructure is currently slightly better than the national average, backsliding will occur in the next five to 10 years if infrastructure funding issues do not continue to be pushed to the forefront. Seven categories of infrastructure were graded in the 2018 Report Card. Aviation and bridges each earned a “B-”, ports, solid waste and wastewater each took home “C+,” roads received a “D+” and Drinking Water a “D.” The report applauds recent infrastructure-related action in the region. Some success stories include new airport terminals and runways, the Highway 53 relocation project, the Port of Duluth Intermodal Project, the Greater Minnesota Transportation Sales Tax, and many others. However, the Report Card Committee, comprised of over 20 civil engineers and industry professionals, caution that if the region assumes the job is complete based on these success stories, the Twin Ports Area will not be able to meet future infrastructure challenges. Civil engineers in northwest Wisconsin and northeast Minnesota report that road conditions in the City of Duluth are in poor condition, but the city’s request to the state legislature for a 0.5% dedicated sales tax for streets offers an attempt to close the funding gap. The *2018 Report Card for the Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure* also find that in the City of Duluth, between 30% and 40% of the 400 miles of wastewater pipes are between 60 and 100 years and needs to be replaced. Additionally, ASCE civil engineers highlight the fact that while capacity in the ports are sufficient, the ability of each facility to secure funding to improve condition is highly dependent on which state the dock is located in. In addition to assessing the health of Duluth and the surrounding region’s infrastructure, the *2018 Report Card for the Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure* makes recommendations to raise the grades. These include a directive to lawmakers to reinvest in infrastructure to prepare the region for the future, specifically with regards to encouraging the Minnesota legislature to support the City of Duluth’s infrastructure sales tax initiative and expanding the Minnesota Port Development Assistance Program to include grant access to private dock owners. Additionally, ASCE Duluth Section civil engineers recommend to fellow citizens that they show up to town halls, legislative days, and other civic-minded events and advocate for prioritizing infrastructure. The 2018 Report Card for the Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure was created as a public service to citizens and policymakers of the state to inform them of the infrastructure needs in their community. By using school report card letter grades, civil engineers used their expertise to condense complicated data into an easy-to-understand analysis. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about the Twin Ports Region’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/twinportsarea/?preview_id=6471&preview_nonce=11b5cde687&_thumbnail_id=-1&preview=true). 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Hill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-advocate-for-infrastructure-on-capitol-hill/) **Published:** March 16, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Civil%20Engineers%20Advocate%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Capitol%20Hill&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Civil%20Engineers%20Advocate%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Capitol%20Hill "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Civil%20Engineers%20Advocate%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Capitol%20Hill "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with 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email")](mailto:?subject=Civil%20Engineers%20Advocate%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Capitol%20Hill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Infrastructure has been a “buzzy” topic around Washington as of late, and this week ASCE members added their voices to the conversation by making in-person hill meetings to share the Society’s views on infrastructure investment, including FAA reauthorization, the 2018 WRDA bill, and the SRF WIN Act, with federal lawmakers. These visits came at an opportune time, as President Trump released his Infrastructure Plan last month, and Senate Democrats their own plan last week. ASCE, as part of the Transportation Construction Coalition and the Americans for Transportation Mobility coalition, is [running an ad targeted at federal lawmakers urging them to pass major infrastructure legislation](https://vimeo.com/user13782109/review/258168289/61a3fbcd63). The group of ASCE advocates prepared for their visit to the Hill by hearing from infrastructure policy experts and Members of Congress, as well as learning from each other. During Tuesday’s programs members received advocacy tips and tools from Brad Fitch, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation, who urged constituents (that’s each of us!) to tell legislators we care about infrastructure issues, by showing statistics on what motivates lawmakers on an issue, including emails. Later, attendees got an insider’s look at the various infrastructure proposals being debated by Congress from Jeff Davis, Senior Fellow and Editor, Eno Transportation Weekly at The Eno Center for Transportation. Jeff shared his deep knowledge on these issues from his nearly 30 years in Washington, 22 of which focused on transportation issues. Wednesday morning, USDOT Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy Derek Kan, spoke to the group about the Administration’s plan, and addressed questions on the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund and other topics. Next, Congressman Garret Graves (R-LA) reflected on his experiences at the local-level in Louisiana before he came to Washington, including the lessons learned from Hurricane Katrina and the value of building infrastructure more resiliently. Congresswoman Elizabeth Esty, whose father and grandfather were civil engineers, closed out the morning’s talks by sharing more about the Problem Solvers Caucus’ Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure report, which demonstrates that bipartisan solutions do exist to improve our nation’s infrastructure. She also told ASCE members to share their own stories about infrastructure because it helps her colleagues see how it impacts their constituency. After the morning’s speakers, 210 ASCE members from 49 states, DC and Puerto Rico headed to Capitol Hill to advocate for infrastructure and the civil engineering community during nearly 270 meetings with Senators and Representatives. You can check out pictures and see what attendees had to say by using [\#asce2dc on Twitter](https://twitter.com/hashtag/ASCE2DC) and don’t forget to add your voice to theirs by [sending an email to Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=446733) in support of infrastructure investment. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Civil%20Engineers%20Advocate%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20Capitol%20Hill&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress --- ### [President Trump Signs Fiscal Year 2018 Omnibus Into Law](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-signs-fiscal-year-2018-omnibus-into-law/) **Published:** March 23, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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spending package](http://docs.house.gov/billsthisweek/20180319/BILLS-115SAHR1625-RCP115-66.pdf) to fund the government for Fiscal Year 2018 (through September 30, 2018), and President Trump [signed the bill into law](https://www.cnn.com/2018/03/23/politics/trump-spending-bill/index.html) today. The bill passed the House on a [vote](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2018/roll127.xml) of 256 – 167 and the Senate on a [vote](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00063) of 65 – 32. Since October 1, 2017, Congress has passed four short-term Continuing Resolutions (CRs) to keep the government funded. The bill contains funding for 12 appropriations bills, including: - $43.2 billion for the [Energy & Water Development](https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_energy_and_water_-_summary.pdf) appropriations bill, which is $5.4 billion more than FY17 enacted levels. - It funds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at $6.83 billion, an increase of $800 million above FY17 enacted levels, including an additional $200 million for its construction account, which is currently funded at $1.876 billion, and an additional $500 million for its operations and maintenance account; the construction funding level is nearly $2 billion less than ASCE’s FY18 request ($3.876 billion). It also includes $3 billion for navigation projects and studies, including $1.4 billion in funding from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund and full use of estimated annual revenues, as well as $1.9 billion to support public health and safety by funding flood and storm damage reduction activities. - It funds the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) at $34.5 billion, an increase of $3.77 billion above FY17 enacted levels, including $12.9 billion for its energy programs, an increase of $1.6 billion above FY17 enacted levels. - It funds DOE’s Office of Science at $6.26 billion, an increase of $868 million above FY17 enacted levels. Lawmakers rejected President Trump’s proposal to eliminate the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy program, giving it a $47 million boost for a total of $353 million. - $35.25 billion for the [Interior & Environment](https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_interior_-_summary.pdf) appropriations bill, which is nearly $3 billion more than FY17 enacted levels. - It provides an additional $300 million for both the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bringing the combined funding for both programs to $2.85 billion, which is $3.9 billion less than ASCE’s FY18 request ($6.76 billion) that would have tripled SRF funding. Overall, the bill freezes base EPA funding at the FY17 enacted level of $8.1 billion and reduces its regulatory program by $23.5 million below the current level. It provides an additional $66 million for Superfund cleanup sites, as well as an additional $63 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA). - The bill includes an additional $185 million for the National Park Service to address their deferred maintenance backlog. - It funds the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) at $1.1 billion, an increase of $63 million above FY17 enacted levels, and preserves the agency’s eight climate centers, which President Trump proposed to cut in half. - $70.3 billion in net discretionary spending for the [Transportation, Housing & Urban Development](https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_thud_-_summary.pdf) appropriations bill, an increase of $12.65 billion above FY17 levels. - It funds the Department of Transportation (DOT) at $27.3 billion in discretionary appropriations, an increase of $8.7 billion from FY17 enacted levels. Of the $27.4 billion, $3 billion is directed to major ongoing DOT discretionary programs, and $4.4 billion is directed towards giving additional discretionary general fund money to transportation trust fund contract authority programs. - Key accounts include: - $1.5 billion in National Infrastructure Investment/ TIGER grants, an increase of $1 billion from FY17 enacted levels and $500 million more than ASCE’s FY18 request ($1 billion); - $10.2 billion in FAA Operations, an increase of $186 million from FY17 enacted levels; - $1.9 billion in grants to Amtrak, an increase of $447 million from FY17 enacted levels; - $250 million is dedicated for the federal-state partnership for state of good repair grants (a FAST Act program), an increase of $225 million from FY17 enacted levels; - $593 million for Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) grant program, an increase of $525 million from FY17 enacted levels; and - $2.6 billion for Capital Investment Grants (CIG), an increase of $232 million from FY17 enacted levels and $300 million more than ASCE’s FY18 request ($2.3 billion). - It funds programs authorized by the FAST Act above the requested level. - Highway Trust Fund obligation limitations are at 100.3 percent of the FAST level, and the general fund appropriations authorized by FAST receive 124.7 percent of their authorized levels. - The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) receives $18 billion. - The Airport Improvement Program receives an extra $1 billion in general fund money for discretionary grants to smaller airports in addition to the $3.35 billion obligation limitation. - Final language does not include an increase in the Passenger Facilities Charge (PFC) cap. - The package also includes a six-month FAA extension, which gives Congress until September 30, 2018 to work out a long-term reauthorization. - $59.6 billion in total discretionary funding for the [Commerce, Justice, and Science](https://appropriations.house.gov/uploadedfiles/03.21.18_fy18_omnibus_-_commerce_justice_science_-_summary.pdf) appropriations bill, an increase of $3 billion above FY17 enacted levels. - It includes $20.7 billion for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), an increase of $1.1 billion above FY17 enacted levels. The bill increases the agency’s planetary science programs by $382 million, for a total of $2.2 billion. NASA’s earth science programs remain flat at current levels, and it rejects President Trump’s proposed elimination of several earth science missions. - It funds the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) at $1.2 billion, an increase of $247 million above FY17 enacted levels. - It also funds the National Science Foundation (NSF) at $7.8 billion, an increase of $295 million above FY17 enacted levels. Under this bill, the agency’s research account grows to $6.3 billion, an increase of about 5 percent above FY17 enacted levels. The bill notes “this strong investment in basic research reflects the Congress’ growing concern that China and other competitors are outpacing the United States in terms of research spending,” and it endorses the Senate’s request to build three new oceanographic research vessels. It funds NSF’s Education and Human Resources Directorate at $902 million, an increase of $22 million above FY17 enacted levels. - It funds the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) at $5.9 billion, an increase of $234 million above FY17 enacted levels. While funding for climate research remains flat, the final bill rejects President Trump’s and the House Committee on Appropriations’ proposed cuts. The bill also includes a short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance Program through July 31, 2018. Finally, it funds the U.S. Department of Education’s Teacher Training and Professional Development at the current level of $2.056 billion and increases the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Afterschool Program to $1.21 billion, an increase of $20 million above FY17 enacted levels. For more details, please see the House Committee on Appropriations website, which can be found [here](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395158). 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Trump%20Signs%20Fiscal%20Year%202018%20Omnibus%20Into%20Law&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** #FY18, #omnibus, appropriations, Funding --- ### [Building a Culture of Preparedness at FEMA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/building-a-culture-of-preparedness/) **Published:** March 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[strategic plan](https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1521736077767-89fc0afeacb7a93bd7b6a1091aaeba2b/strat_plan.pdf) to guide the agency from 2018 through 2022. The plan outlines three goals: reducing the complexity of the agency, readying the nation for catastrophic disaster, and building a culture of preparedness. The strategic goals will be driven by twelve supporting strategic objectives meant to “highlight meaningful ways the Agency can focus on its workforce, simplify processes and procedures across FEMA, provide enhanced stewardship of funds, and better engage and support survivors.” This new plan comes in the wake of sixteen weather and climate events in the nation in 2017 alone, which resulted in 362 deaths and came at a record-breaking cost of $306 billion. As FEMA notes in the plan, “the most effective form of emergency management is one in which every member of the community understands his or her important and indispensable role,” and “the ability of the Nation to be truly ready depends on everyone knowing and understanding the part they play in our collective resilience.” The plan was developed through multiple engagement platforms, including in-person feedback in sessions held for FEMA employees across the nation; webinars with external partners, including state, local, and tribal, and territorial officials; and an online idea management forum to gather comments, recommendations, and ideas. Several of the plan’s strategic objectives mirror [ASCE’s flood risk management priorities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/ASCE-Flood-Risk-Management-Priorites-FINAL-12.7.17.pdf), including the need to establish a common definition and consistent means of assessing risk; implementing effective collaboration and clear communications across all levels of government, the private sector, and the public; and establishing long-term, reliable funding mechanisms for risk reduction measures at the federal, state, and local levels, including pre-disaster mitigation measures and the [National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)](https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program). Earlier this month, ASCE sent a letter to the [House](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B5b6c5110-3fb9-4945-83b6-0bbd981f420c%7D_ASCE_House_Appropriations_Committee_Request_FY18_and_FY19_03-06-18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-03-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and [Senate](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7Be024f4b2-e643-4ba7-9627-f82e8a00ac37%7D_ASCE_Senate_Appropriations_Committee_Request_FY18_and_FY19_03-06-18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-03-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) Committees on Appropriation urging them to fully fund several existing federal infrastructure programs, including the NFIP, the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program, the National Dam Safety Program, and the National Levee Safety Initiative – all of which provide critical flood risk reduction across the nation. The importance of pre-disaster mitigation cannot be stressed enough. In fact, a January 2018 National Institute of Building Sciences [report](https://www.nibs.org/news/381874/National-Institute-of-Building-Sciences-Issues-New-Report-on-the-Value-of-Mitigation.htm) found that every $1 in federal government agency hazard mitigation spending saves the nation $6 in future disaster costs. Congress seems to have heard this message loud and clear, because last week’s [Fiscal Year 2018 omnibus spending package](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395176) contained $249.2 million for FEMA’s [Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grant Program](https://www.fema.gov/pre-disaster-mitigation-grant-program), which is nearly $150 million more than the FY17 enacted level. The PDM program, which is authorized in the Stafford Act and is awarded on a competitive basis, provides planning and project grants to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments who want to reduce their risk to future hazard events. FEMA’s strategic plan seeks to close the insurance gap by helping individuals and businesses understand the amount of coverage they need to be adequately insured. The NFIP is the nation’s primary source of flood insurance, yet a recent study in the journal [*Environmental Research Letters*](http://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/aaac65) found that FEMA’s flood maps, which cover less than 60 percent of the country, are so outdated and/or miscalculated that nearly 41 million Americans – or three times the number of people covered under current estimates – live in areas vulnerable to a 100 year flood. Furthermore, the amount of property at risk is more than double the federal estimate. While [President Trump’s FY19 Budget Request](https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/DHS%20FY19%20BIB.pdf) included a meager $100 million for FEMA’s flood mapping and risk analysis program, a nearly 43 percent cut compared to the FY17 enacted level of $178 million, last week’s omnibus funded the program at $262.5 million – a 47 percent increase from the FY17 enacted level. It’s worth noting, however, that FEMA’s new strategic plan eliminates any references to climate change. For example, in a section labeled “Emerging Threats,” it cites cybersecurity and terrorism but fails to mention rising sea levels, extreme weather events, or any other term related to the potential impacts of climate change. Earlier that same week, the [Pew Charitable Trusts](http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/projects/flood-prepared-communities) and the [National League of Cities](https://www.nlc.org/) released a [Flood-Ready Infrastructure Statement of Principles](http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/fact-sheets/2018/03/prioritizing-flood-ready-infrastructure) that include improved building requirements, enhanced use of natural defenses, and reduced unsustainable development in risky areas. More than 250 governors, state representatives, and mayors from across the country signed onto the principles, which also reflect many of ASCE’s flood risk management priorities. As advocates for [policies](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-545--flood-risk-management/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) that reduce risk, protect the health of the public, and maximize the public interest – including cost considerations and resilient designs – ASCE has been supportive of efforts that achieve this goal, specifically the Obama-era Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) that was rescinded by President Trump through an [Executive Order (EO)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-release-executive-order-on-infrastructure/) on August 15, 2017. As part of a larger coalition led by Pew, ASCE has been urging [Congress](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B97f60c91-7fcd-4e09-b764-bd58a0f9b3f8%7D_Support_letter_to_Congressional_leadership_for_stronger_flood-ready_measures_1.9.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and the [Trump Administration](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B77ce0749-bbc9-442f-b3f1-da57a5158830%7D_22stakeholder_FFRMS_letter_to_WH_6.19.17.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to develop new flood risk management standards that would require any new federally funded infrastructure projects in a floodplain to consider and mitigate for flood disaster risk. Earlier this month, [ASCE endorsed](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/State-Flood-Mitigation-Revolving-Fund-Supporters-FINAL_3.21.18.pdf) S. 1507, the [State Flood Mitigation Revolving Fund Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1507/cosponsors), which was introduced by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). Based on the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, this bill would create a new state revolving fund to provide low-interest loans to states for flood mitigation projects such as elevations and flood proofing of public buildings, businesses, and residences; improvements to stormwater management; assistance to local residents who wish to move out of harm’s way; or converting frequently flooded areas into open space amenities. ASCE was pleased that the U.S. Department of House and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced that all post-2017 hurricane disaster relief funds they disburse to states for new infrastructure projects located in a floodplain will contain a requirement that they be built to a higher elevation than the 100-year floodplain. States will also have to detail their efforts to account for sea-level rise. This flood risk management standard does not, however, change underlying HUD policy, and it is not yet clear if these requirements will apply to other federal agencies spending disaster relief funds. The desire for stronger flood risk standards is nearly ubiquitous among the nation’s citizens; a [recent poll](http://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/blogs/compass-points/2018/02/01/poll-shows-nationwide-support-for-feds-to-boost-rebuilding-standards?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) conducted by the research firm Public Opinion Strategies found that a majority of voters (79 percent) across the political spectrum support policies aimed at reducing the risk posed by flood-related disasters, even those that may contain a price tag. With more than 50 percent of Americans living along a coast or in a floodplain – and as extreme weather events increase – it’s imperative that our nation invests in pre-disaster mitigation activities. ASCE is proud to lend a strong voice to these mitigation and resiliency efforts. 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post-disaster recovery efforts and lessons learned after 2017’s deadly hurricane season. It started off with a field hearing held by the House Committee on Homeland Security entitled “[Houston Strong: Hurricane Harvey Lessons Learned and the Path Forward](https://homeland.house.gov/hearing/houston-strong-hurricane-harvey-lessons-learned-path-forward/%5D).” Witnesses included officials from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE); the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD); the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); the U.S. Coast Guard; Harris County and the City of Houston, among others. One of the strongest messages that emerged from the hearing was from local officials urging Congress to allow the USACE to speed up the study and review process in order to begin work on a third flood control reservoir; during Hurricane Harvey, the USACE had to release water from the existing Barker and Addicks reservoirs, which resulted in the flooding of downstream communities. According to local officials, the USACE have been discussing building an additional reservoir in the area for more than 100 years. The USACE testified that they are following protocol in studying the feasibility of a third reservoir and other flood control projects but must first compile a study to report to Congress. The House Committee on Energy & Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations began by r[eviewing the restoration of Puerto Rico’s electric grid](https://energycommerce.house.gov/hearings/update-restoration-puerto-ricos-electric-infrastructure/). An official from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) testified that although the recently rebuilt electric grid is not as resilient as it should be, it’s in better condition than before Hurricane Maria. An official from the U.S. Department of Energy noted that the agency is working to build its first-ever digital model of Puerto Rico’s grid to give energy managers more options in the event of an emergency, and the agency is also in the process of developing a larger, more resilient plan for the energy grid there, including more renewable generation and microgrids. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation held a hearing entitled “[Are We Ready for the Next Hurricane Season? Status of Preparation and Response Capabilities for 2018](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=3A21D892-1505-478F-ACAD-6F7C3A5A0B08%5D).” Witnesses were split into one panel for federal agency officials and one panel for state and non-profit representatives working on-the-ground in states and territories that were affected by the 2017 hurricanes. Chairman Bill Nelson’s (D-FL) opening remarks contained sharp criticisms of the federal government’s response to last year’s natural disasters and urged federal agency officials to take measures to cut down bureaucratic red tape to ensure that post-disaster funding gets out to the door and to affected communities as quickly as possible. The Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Governmental Affairs concluded the week with a hearing entitled “[FEMA: Prioritizing a Culture of Preparedness](https://www.hsgac.senate.gov/hearings/fema-prioritizing-a-culture-of-preparedness)” to discuss the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) [recently released strategic plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/building-a-culture-of-preparedness/) for the agency from 2018 through 2022. 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The House [Committee on Appropriations](https://appropriations.house.gov/calendar/?EventTypeID=316) held 19 hearings this week, while the[ Senate Committee on Appropriations](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings) held five hearings. Administration officials from across the federal agencies testified at hearings on the President’s FY19 budget request, including at those for the U.S. [Department of Transportation](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings/hearing-to-review-the-fy2019-budget-request-for-the-us-dept-of-transportation), the [U.S. Department of Energy](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/hearings/hearing-to-review-the-dept-of-energy-and-nnsa-budget-requests-for-fy2019), the [Federal Emergency Management Agenc](https://appropriations.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=395220)y, the[ National Aeronautics and Space Administration](https://appropriations.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=395214), the [National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration](https://appropriations.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=395208), and the [U.S. Department of the Interior](https://appropriations.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=395206). These hearings come on the heels of the recently passed $1.3 trillion FY18 omnibus spending package, which included higher-than-anticipated funding for many agencies due to [February’s budget deal](https://www.cnn.com/2018/02/08/politics/budget-vote-congress-shutdown/index.html), which boosted non-defense discretionary spending by $63 billion 2018 and $68 billion in 2019 above the levels in the 2011 Budget Control Act, also known as sequestration. The[ Congressional Budget Office](https://www.cbo.gov/system/files/115th-congress-2017-2018/reports/53651-outlook.pdf) (CBO) released a report this week detailing the impact that the $1.5 trillion tax bill and recent omnibus spending package will have on the federal deficit. According to the [report](https://www.npr.org/2018/04/09/600898950/-1-trillion-deficits-to-return-national-debt-to-rise-projects-cbo), tax cuts and spending increases will add $242 billion to the federal budget deficit in 2018 alone (for a total of $804 billion in FY18, up from $665 billion in FY17), while the annual deficit will top $1 trillion in just two years and rise to $1.5 trillion by 2028. The national debt is on track to approach 100% of gross domestic product (GDP) by 2028, which is “far greater than the debt in any year since just after World War II.” In response, House Republican leadership scheduled a vote this week on a proposed amendment to the Constitution to require a balanced federal budget. Because the proposal amends the Constitution, it would need both a two-thirds approval of both the House and the Senate to pass, and ratification from three-fourths of the states. This week’s House vote failed by [233-184](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2018/04/12/house-fails-advance-balanced-budget-amendment-counter-high-spending-levels/508665002/). Additionally, the White House has floated the idea of a Congressional vote on a [rescission package](https://www.rollcall.com/news/politics/senate-gop-appropriators-view-rescissions-package-non-starter), or the cancellation of budget authority provided by Congress, which would allow the President to block discretionary funds from being spent for 45 days while Congress determines its course of action. This would need to pass both the House and the Senate by a simple majority. 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clear that states are gearing up to take on the challenges that follow winter. To start the season of construction off right and in the weeks leading up to Infrastructure Week, states are reminding drivers about safe work zone practices through National Work Zone Awareness Week, searching for infrastructure funding in the form of a gas tax, and upgrading their public transportation systems. **Infrastructure Funding & the Gas Tax** More state legislatures are tackling infrastructure investment as families continue to lose $9 a day due to poor infrastructure. Several states are preparing to vote on the solution: the gas tax. [Kentucky](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?9&engagementId=458473) and [Missouri](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=459553) are both in line to vote on this issue. If you live in one of these states, click the link to contact your legislator and show your support for the gas tax. In Mississippi, the effects of insufficient funding made headlines [as more than 100 bridges were closed because of their poor condition.](http://www.wdsu.com/article/more-than-100-mississippi-bridges-shut-down-due-to-safety-issues/19754948) This might encourage the governor to call the legislature back into session to focus on transportation funding, which was not addressed during the regular session because lawmakers could not reach a consensus. **FTA Bus Grants** Earlier this week, the federal government stepped up to help fund 139 bus-related projects across the country. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transportation Administration awarded $264.5 million in grants through the Buses and Bus Facilities Infrastructure Investment. Some of these projects include providing easier access to public transportation in [Birmingham, Alabama](http://altoday.com/archives/22585-birmingham-bus-service); purchasing and implementing battery-electric operated buses and charging equipment in [Long Beach, California](https://lbpost.com/news/city/long-beach-breaks-same-day-record-heat-set-in-1968/); replacing aging buses in [Duluth, Minnesota](http://www.fox21online.com/2018/04/09/dta-announces-award-1-8-million/); and purchasing natural gas buses in [Wilmington, North Carolina](http://www.wect.com/story/37911996/wave-transit-gets-36m-grant-to-buy-new-natural-gas-buses). As you see road crews out working thanks to warmer weather and increased funding, remember keeping the crews safe is [everyone’s responsibility.](https://www.workzonesafety.org/) Give them a break, as they are working to improve your commute! 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Congressman C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-MD) introduced [H.R. 5003](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/5003/cosponsors), a bill to reinstate advance refunding bonds, which were replead in H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. During the tax bill debate the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) opposed provisions that eliminated financing tools, including advance refunding bonds and Private Activity Bonds (PABs), which are used to help invest in infrastructure projects. Advance refunding bonds are a financing technique that provides an issuer the ability to obtain lower interest rates when the outstanding bonds are not presently callable. Eventually, the proceeds from the sale of the refunding bond is used to purchase taxable government securities, which are deposited in an escrow account. In 2017, advance refunding bond issuance was $91 billion, or over 20% of supply, and comprising a market of over $3 trillion. Ultimately, this financing tool helps state and local governments take advantage of low interest rates to build infrastructure projects. This has saved taxpayers money and provided our communities the needed flexibility for managing their finances so that they have the added freedom to invest in infrastructure like roads, bridges, and schools. Congressman Luke Messer (R-IN), Congressman Ed Royce (R-CA), Congressman Dan Kildee (D-MI), and Congressman Michael Capuano (D-MA) are original cosponsors. In an endorsement letter of the bill, ASCE’s President Kristina L. Swallow, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE wrote: “By reinstating the tax exemption of advanced refunding bonds, state and local governments will be able to take advantage of favorable interest rates to help build essential infrastructure projects.” By passing this legislation, Congress would be supporting financing mechanisms that strengthen our infrastructure. Watch here for updates as the bill progresses. 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email")Infrastructure has long been heralded as a bipartisan issue. A [new poll out](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/Final%20-%20VOW%20poll%201%20pager%20for%20water%20week%20%281%29.pdf) today from the [Value of Water](http://www.thevalueofwater.org/) further proves this point, finding 88% of Americans voters agree: Now is the time to invest in the nation’s water infrastructure. Among the key findings, four of five American voters (80%) say that rebuilding America’s infrastructure is extremely or very important, with nearly everyone saying it is at least somewhat important (96%). Infrastructure outstrips every other issue in this regard including ones often discussed more prominently in the news such as building a wall on the Mexican border, replacing Obamacare, and providing permanent resident status for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival recipients. The poll offers good indicators to elected officials and those running for office that voters view infrastructure investment as a positive. Support for investing in water infrastructure cut across age, gender, party, geography, and ideology. 66% of Republicans, 80% of Independents, and 88% of Democrats agree that investing in our water infrastructure is either extremely or very important. In the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, Drinking Water received a grade of “D,” largely because of the aging system and need for increased investment. The poll also found that 75% of ratepayers would be willing to pay a modest increase in local water rates to fund improved service. The poll was released as part of the [annual Water Week](https://www.waterweek.us/), which featured a Fly-In event in Washington, DC that was co-hosted by the [National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA),](https://www.nacwa.org/home) the [Water Environment Federation](https://www.wef.org/), the [Water Research Foundation](http://www.waterrf.org/Pages/Index3.aspx) , and others. The opening plenary session included remarks from EPA’s Assistant Administrator of the [Office of Water](https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/about-office-water), David Ross, who discussed EPA’s “war on lead” in their ongoing lead and copper in water rule, as well as the two-part effort to rescind and replace the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Directors from four offices within EPA’s Office of Water spoke on a panel about the agency’s recent successes and priorities, including the $600 million increase in funding for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs in the recently passed [FY18 omnibus](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-signs-fiscal-year-2018-omnibus-into-law/). Water Week participants heard updates from and posed questions to professional staff members of the [Senate Committee on Agriculture](https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/), the [Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/), and [the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure](https://transportation.house.gov/). These professional staffers confirmed the ongoing work being done in Congress to develop a Water Resources Development Act of 2018, a Farm Bill of 2018, an energy package, and a comprehensive infrastructure bill. Participants spent the afternoon advocating on Capitol Hill for water resources infrastructure priorities. 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Poll%20Reveals%20Investing%20in%20Water%20Infrastructure%20is%20a%20Top%20Priority%20for%20Voters&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, infrastructure investment, water week --- ### [Water Week & Earth Day: America’s Water Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-week-earth-day-americas-water-needs/) **Published:** April 20, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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clean water, cleaning up local rivers, and doing their part to conserve water in honor of [Water Week](https://www.waterweek.us/), which was April 15-21 and [Earth Day](https://www.earthday.org/) on April 22. In Washington, D.C. this week’s Water Week Fly-In event brought together a number of water advocacy groups to support [increased investment](http://thehill.com/opinion/energy-environment/383416-water-week-a-prime-opportunity-to-emphasize-critical-water-needs) in water-related infrastructure. In the [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), engineers analyzed America’s drinking water and assigned it a “D ”grade, noting that to fix our water infrastructure, it’s going to cost [$105 billion in the next 10 years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/). What can we do to improve this nearly-failing score, and exactly how much will it cost us? **Grading Drinking Water Infrastructure** There are an estimated 240,000 water main breaks occurring each year in America’s one million miles of pipes. Many of the million miles of drinking water pipes that run throughout our country were laid in the early to mid-20th century, which means they are approaching or have surpassed their 75 to 100-year life span. These aging, leaky pipes cause us to lose nearly six billion gallons of treated drinking water, wasting enough water that to support 15 million households! **The Cost of Fixing Our Infrastructure** Although the general quality of the country’s drinking water is good, we can’t afford to lose treated freshwater due to aging infrastructure. Through 2025 our needs total $150 billion, and only about $45 billion is account for, leaving a $105 billion funding deficit. Outdated water infrastructure will cost the $896 billion in business sales and $508 billion in GDP by 2025. **Learn More** For more information on how Americans feel about our country’s drinking water infrastructure, take a look at this [poll](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-poll-reveals-investing-in-water-infrastructure-is-a-top-priority-for-voters/) from the Value of Water. For more information on our drinking water infrastructure and investment needs, read the [drinking water chapter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) of the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card. To learn about how California residents are doing their part to recycle water, [read](http://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/commercial/2018/4/epic-water-recycling-record-set-in-california-in-bid-to-highlight-extreme-weather-518335) about the Guinness World Record recently set by the Orange County Water District and Orange County Sanitation District. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Water%20Week%20%26%20Earth%20Day%3A%20America%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** California, Drinking Water, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, Drinking Water, water --- ### [ASCE Gives Missouri Another C-](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-gives-missouri-another-c/) **Published:** April 26, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%20Gives%20Missouri%20Another%20C- "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Gives%20Missouri%20Another%20C-&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The *[2018 Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/missouri/)* was released today and gave the state an overall grade of a “C-.” Eleven categories of infrastructure were assessed by ASCE’s Kansas City Section, with assistance from the St. Louis Section. Of the 11 categories, six were in mediocre condition and five were in poor condition. Aviation, bridges, ports, and rail all received a “C,” the highest grade given in this report card. Dams received the lowest grade of a “D-.” The last *Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure* was released in 2013 and the state earned the same grade of a “C-.” Without investment and improvements in our infrastructure system, the state will start to feel the effects and the state will continue to bring home mediocre and poor grades. The timing for the release of Missouri’s grades is apt, as the state legislators consider how to fund the state’s transportation network in the final weeks of their session. Although Missouri’s Bridges category earned one of the highest grades in the *Report Card*, this category falls far behind the national average. Missouri has the seventh largest number of bridges nationwide and 12.5% of these bridges are structurally deficient. This is significantly higher than the 8.9% of structurally deficient bridges nationwide. The grades also bring attention to the Dams category. Missouri has approximately 5,529 dams across the state and 84% of these dams are unregulated. An estimated 1,123 of these unregulated dams have a High Hazard Potential or Significant Hazard Potential rating, meaning poor infrastructure and a threat to safety for many. Despite the infrastructure challenges that Missouri faces, there is good news: with proper investment and attention, the grades can be raised. In the *2018 Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure*, ASCE members made four recommendations for how to improve the grades. First, Missouri must increase state-level transportation investment, so the state does not lose out on matching federal funds. Second, the state must develop a systematic approach to preventing future flooding. Third, eliminate regulation exemptions for high-hazard and significant-hazard dams. This recommendation will help raise the grade for the Dams category and will keep residents safe. By eliminating exemptions, Missouri can ensure that dams are in a state of good repair and that they have proper emergency action plans. Finally, ASCE members recommend investment in the freight infrastructure system to prepare for future growth. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about ASCE’s solutions to raise Missouri’s grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/missouri/). 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email")It’s been a busy few weeks for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure investments; this is great news because despite increased efficiency methods and sustainable practices, there is a growing gap between the capital needed to maintain drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and the actual investments made. By 2025, the investment gap for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems is estimated at $105 billion, and the American Water Works Association estimates that $1 trillion will be needed to maintain and expand drinking water service demands during the next 25 years. In fact, [ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave our nation’s [drinking water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) and [wastewater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) infrastructure grades of “D” and “D+,” respectively. Fortunately, Congress has provided some federal funding options that – if robustly appropriated – could help close the funding gap needed for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure. The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF), both of which were authorized by Congress several decades ago, play a vital role in providing much-needed support for investments in state and local drinking water and wastewater infrastructure by providing low-interest loans for such projects. The EPA provides an allotment of funding for each state, and each state provides a 20% match. Since the DWSRF’s inception in 1997, $32.5 billion of low-interest loans have been allocated for drinking water infrastructure projects, while $126 billion of low-interest loans have been allocated for wastewater infrastructure projects over the course of the CWSRF’s 30 year lifespan. Congress authorized the [Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) in the Water Resources Reform & Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2014-water-resources-reform-development-act/) to fund large water infrastructure projects over $20 million through the leveraging power of private sector investments. Congress appropriated $17 million for the program in 2016 and $30 million for it in 2017. It is estimated that WIFIA’s full financial leveraging ability will allow for a single dollar to create $50 dollars for project lending. Last month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delivered the [2015 Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment (DWINSA) ](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-03/documents/sixth_drinking_water_infrastructure_needs_survey_and_assessment.pdf)Report to Congress and President Trump. The 2015 DWINSA is the sixth since 1995, and it estimates an investment need of $472.6 billion in the nation’s drinking water infrastructure over the next 20 years, a 10.3% increase, in constant dollars, over the estimated need of the 2011 DWINSA. The survey response rate was 99.7 percent, the highest rate in the assessment’s history. The assessment’s determination of the relative needs of each state will be used as the basis for the allotment of the DWSRF for the four fiscal years of 2018 through 2021. The CWSRF, which just celebrated its 30-year anniversary milestone, recently released its [Annual Report.](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-03/documents/final_2017_cwsrf_annual_report_for_web2.pdf) The report found that in 2017 alone, the CWSRF extended 1,484 loans and provided more than $7.4 billion in assistance to state and local borrowers, making it the third highest funding level in the history of the program. The program also provided $780 million through 191 assistance agreements to disadvantaged communities, up from $535 million in 2016. Last month, ASCE and seven drinking water and wastewater organizations [sent a letter](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7Bd32a92bd-97ea-4ad0-a92e-0f384ef7677b%7D_FY19_Approps_Request_Letter_Water_Infrastructure_Joint_Assoc_3.21.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-03-23%20TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to the House and Senate Committees on Appropriations Subcommittees on Interior & Environment urging them to make robust federal investments in water infrastructure in Fiscal Year 2019. The letter specifically asked the Committees to double the funding for the CWSRF and DWSRF programs and to fully fund WIFIA at its authorized FY19 level, among other requests. We were pleased that the FY18 omnibus included an additional $600 million for the CWSRF and DWSRF programs, bringing the combined funding for both programs to $2.85 billion. The omnibus also included an additional $63 million for the WIFIA program, more than doubling its appropriation compared to FY17. Last week, the EPA issued a $134.5 million loan – its [first-ever loan](https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-first-water-infrastructure-loan-under-wifia) from the WIFIA program – to King County, Washington to help finance its Georgetown Wet Weather Treatment Station; when completed in 2022, it will collect and treat up to 70 million gallons of wastewater and stormwater per day that would otherwise runoff into the Duwamish River. According to EPA’s press release, this project is expected to create an estimated 1,400 jobs and will provide education, job training, and apprenticeship opportunities during its design, construction, and operation. As advocates of [alternative water resources financing mechanisms](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/) and [innovative, resilient infrastructure,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/preparing-for-the-future/) ASCE is happy to support a recently introduced bill that provide creative solutions to our nation’s aging drinking water and wastewater infrastructure systems. Earlier this year, U.S. Senators [John Boozman (R-AR)](https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=5DEC61E7-6C6C-44B1-AFA6-09349661D012), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jim Inhofe (R-OK), and Diane Feinstein (D-CA) introduced S[. 2364,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/2364/text) the “Securing Required Funding for Water Infrastructure Now Act,” or the SRF WIN Act, to help tackle our nation’s aging drinking water and wastewater systems. A House companion bill, [H.R. 4902](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4902), was introduced by Congressmen John Katko (R-NY) and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR). The SRF WIN Act seeks to help states fund critically important drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects by using a combination of the most successful aspects of both the WIFIA and the [SRF](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water/) programs. This new program builds on the leveraging concept in WIFIA to provide a minimum of $50 billion in new funds for State Infrastructure Financing Authorities to utilize. It’s also worth noting that this program’s funding is contingent upon annual appropriations equal to FY17 funding levels for the SRFs and WIFIA. ASCE [supports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_Letter-of-Support_10.10.17.pdf) this [bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_House-Letter-of-Support_2.2.18.pdf) because it offers a new and efficient tool to leverage limited federal resources and stimulate additional investment in our nation’s infrastructure while safeguarding against any cuts to the existing SRF and WIFIA programs. ASCE has been busy advocating on Capitol Hill in support of these bills, and we urge you to [contact your Member of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=433433) to ask them to co-sponsor this important drinking water and wastewater infrastructure legislation. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Testifies%20Before%20House%20Small%20Business%20Committee&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")![Woman with short blonde hair and glasses speaking into a microphone at a formal meeting, surrounded by listeners.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/Marsia_Small-Business-Committee-400x258.png "Marsia_Small Business Committee")Image Source John Harrington PhotographyYesterday, [U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Committee](https://smallbusiness.house.gov/) held a hearing entitled, “[American Infrastructure and the Small Business Perspective](https://smallbusiness.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=400719&utm_campaign=GR-2018-04-20-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua)” to explore how infrastructure needs impact small business. Marsia Geldert-Murphey, member of the ASCE Board of Direction, testified before the committee along with members from the National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association; NTCA – the Rural Broadband Association; and the National Electrical Contractors Association. In her [testimony](https://smallbusiness.house.gov/uploadedfiles/4-25-18_geldert-murphey_testimony.pdf), Geldert-Murphey highlighted the [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and the overall “D+” grade given to our infrastructure systems, the importance of infrastructure investment in the small business community, and how investment in our country’s infrastructure can help small businesses stay competitive in a global marketplace. She also referenced the 2016 economic study, [Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) and outlined specific steps that Congress should take to improve infrastructure for the benefit of small businesses. To begin the hearing, both Chairman Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Acting Ranking Member Alma Adams (D-NC) spoke about the problems that small businesses face in terms of infrastructure and championed the idea of finding a solution. Chairman Chabot gave examples of notable infrastructure problems that can hurt small businesses, including the average 42 hours of productivity that commuters lose to traffic each year. Acting Ranking Member Adams noted the business opportunities that investment in infrastructure could bring. She also mentioned that President Trump’s Infrastructure Plan does not explicitly include benefits for small businesses and that Congress should work to identify the additional steps that need to be taken to ensure the success of small businesses. Infrastructure impacts every American, including the economic driver that is small business. Exploring this topic helps better inform infrastructure legislation in the future. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Testifies%20Before%20House%20Small%20Business%20Committee&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure --- ### [ASCE President, Kristina Swallow, Testifies Before Senate EPW Committee](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-president-kristina-swallow-testifies-before-senate-epw-committee/) **Published:** May 10, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Kristina Swallow, President of ASCE, [testified](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/_cache/files/d/2/d2ad27d9-2aa2-4d99-8566-d8737d37e865/1F18B9A3A2965FFABC882351974A99E8.swallow-testimony-5.9.18.pdf) before the Committee along with four other champions of water infrastructure: Pat Riley, Advisory Committee Member with the Family Farm Alliance; Dennis Sternberg, Executive Director of the Arkansas Rural Water Association; The Honorable Jeffrey Bullock, Delaware Secretary of State; and Tony Pratt, President of the American Short and Beach Preservation Association. ![Blonde woman speaking into a microphone at a panel, with a name card reading Kristina Swallow in front.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/20180509_Hearing_ASCE_076-400x267.jpg "Congressional hearing")ASCE President Kristina Swallow testifies before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee Wednesday May 9 2018 Image Source John Harrington PhotographyChairman John Barrasso (R-WY) introduced the bill, America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018, which was co-sponsored by Senators Tom Carper (D-DE.), James Inhofe (R-OK.), and Ben Cardin (D-MD). Sen. Barrasso spoke about the importance of up-to-date water infrastructure, noting that investment in water resources infrastructure is critical to keeping both urban and rural America prosperous, safe, and healthy. Swallow’s testimony echoed the Chairman’s concerns about America’s economy and safety, citing the [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and [*ASCE’s Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE-Failure-to-Act-2016-FINAL.pdf). She also emphasized ASCE’s support for many of the provisions in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018, including the reauthorization of the National Dam Safety Program, the National Levee Safety Program, and the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). Swallow also provided a few recommendations, most notably she recommended that the Committee consider including S. 2364, the Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now (SRF WIN) Act into the WRDA 2018 bill, to help alleviate our nation’s water resources infrastructure investment deficit. Following their testimonies, the panel fielded questions about stormwater and wastewater, the SRF WIN act, resiliency, and green infrastructure. Water infrastructure is important to every region in America. It is the foundation of our economy and is critical to our health and welfare. Our water resources infrastructure systems – levees, dams, inland waterways, and ports – protect hundreds of communities, transport goods, support millions of American jobs and generate trillions of dollars of economic activity. Our nation must prioritize investment needs of our water resources systems through strategic, robust, and sustained investments, long term reliable federal funding and the utilization of financing mechanisms. It’s time that we update our aging water resource systems and prepare for the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Fiscal%20Year%202019%20Appropriations%20Process%20Begins&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The spring weather in our nation’s capital has ushered in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2019 appropriations season, and it’s warming up quickly here on Capitol Hill (both the weather and the appropriations!). In anticipation of the FY19 appropriations process, ASCE sent funding request letters to several House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees, including the: - [House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Interior-Environment-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) and [Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Interior-Environment-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior & Environment; - [House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Energy-Water-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) and [Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Energy-Water-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy & Water Development; - [House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Homeland-Security-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) and [Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Homeland-Security-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security; - [House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-THUD-FY19-Request-May2018.pdf) and [Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-THUD-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development; and - [House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Commerce-Justice-FY19-Request-May-2018.pdf) and [Senate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Commerce-Justice-FY19-Request-May2018.pdf) Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Science, and Justice. Our funding requests are rooted in the belief that our nation’s infrastructure, which received a grade of “D+” in our [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), can be improved and restored; however, to actually close the growing funding gap, a sustained, strategic investment is required, including a long-term investment from the federal government that leverages state, local, and private investment. Shortly after ASCE sent the Appropriations Subcommittees our FY19 funding priorities and requests, the House Appropriations Committee began releasing its FY19 appropriations bills. As of publication date, the following FY19 House appropriations bills have been released: [Energy & Water Development](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395283); [Interior & Environment](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395297); [Commerce, Justice & Science](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395291); [Transportation, Housing & Urban Development;](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395298) [Military Construction & Veterans Affairs](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395288); [Agriculture, Rural Development and Food & Drug Administration;](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395290) and [Legislative Branch](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395289). Although the Senate has not yet released any of its FY19 appropriations bill, Appropriations Chair Richard Shelby announced the [committee’s schedule](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/shelby-leahy-announce-markup-schedule-for-fy2019) for all 12 appropriations bill, with the ultimate goal of having all of the bills marked-up by June 29. It’s been over 20 years since Congress has passed all of its appropriations bills (the last time was in 1997), but both chambers of Congress currently appear eager to get all 12 appropriations bills through committee (and presumably to their respective floors) by the August recess. The government must pass a spending bill by October 1 of each year, though they have relied on short-term extensions, or continuing resolutions, since 2011. The funding outlook for FY19 contains levels that are largely equal to or higher than the [FY18 omnibus](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-signs-fiscal-year-2018-omnibus-into-law/). Here is the full breakdown of the appropriations related to infrastructure thus far: The House Appropriations Committee advanced its $44.7 billion for the Energy & Water Development FY19 appropriations bill, which is $1.5 billion above the FY18 enacted level and $8.17 billion above President Trump’s FY19 budget request. The bill funds the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) at $7.28 billion, which is $451 million above the FY18 enacted level. Under this bill, the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) energy programs receive $13.4 billion, which is $504 million above the FY18 enacted level, and DOE’s science research programs receive $$6.6 billion, or $340 million above the FY18 enacted level. The committee voted down a controversial provision, known as a “rider,” that would have repealed the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule. The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior & Environment approved its $32.5 billion FY19 appropriations bill, which is the same funding level as FY18 and $7 billion more than the President’s FY19 budget request, and it now advances to the full committee for a vote. The bill provides $13.1 billion for the U.S. Department of the Interior – the same as the FY18 enacted level – and $7.95 billion for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which is $100 million below the FY18 enacted level but nearly $2 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request. The bill includes $2.6 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, which is $200 million below the FY18 enacted level but still $1 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request, as well as $75 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program, which is $12 million above the FY18 enacted level. The bill contains controversial riders, including withdrawal of the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule and changes to federal endangered species protection. The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies approved its $71.8 billion FY19 appropriations bill, which is $1.5 billion above the FY18 enacted level and $23.8 billion more than the President’s FY19 budget request. For the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the subcommittee approved $27.8 billion in discretionary funding, a $545 million increase from the FY18 enacted level and $11.3 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request. FAST Act related programs in the bill have a total discretionary funding level of $62.4 billion, which is $822 million more than FAST Act authorized levels and $3.7 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request. The bill provides $17.7 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which is $300 million below the FY18 enacted level and $1.6 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request. The $1 billion supplemental for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) included in the FY18 appropriations bill is reduced to $500 million in the FY19 appropriations bill. The bill provides $750 million for TIGER/BUILD Grants, which was not included in the President’s FY19 budget request and is $750 million below the FY18 enacted level. Funding for the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program is at $2.6 billion, which is the same amount as the FY18 enacted level and $1.6 billion above the President’s FY19 budget request. The subcommittee’s bill now advances to the full committee for a vote. The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Science, and Justice approved its $62.5 billion FY19 appropriations bill, which is $2.9 billion above the FY18 enacted level. The National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) receives $21.5 billion, or $810 million above the FY18 enacted level. The bill provides $8.2 billion for the National Science Foundation (NSF), which is $408 above the FY18 enacted level. ASCE urges Congress to fund these agencies and programs that have proven to be successful, especially those included in our FY19 appropriations request letters. Providing more funding to existing programs, rather than creating new programs, will reduce overhead costs and startup time while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across all sectors of U.S. infrastructure. Our infrastructure is the backbone of our nation’s economy, and although the FY18 omnibus and 2018 budget deal included increases in infrastructure investment, we ask Congress to engage in bold leadership so that we can restore America’s world-class infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Fiscal%20Year%202019%20Appropriations%20Process%20Begins&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized **Tags:** appropriations --- ### [Infrastructure Week: It’s #TimetoBuild](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-week-its-timetobuild/) **Published:** May 18, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Week](http://www.infrastructureweek.org), held this year from May 14-21. Sections, branches, and members convened events, organized state legislative drive-ins, and participated in panels around the country. The national week of events, media coverage, education and issue advocacy, is designed to elevate infrastructure as a critical issue impacting America’s economy, society, security, and future. ASCE is a member of the Infrastructure Week steering committee. **ASCE Leads at Marquee Events** ASCE President Kristina Swallow, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE, offered opening remarks at the West Coast Infrastructure Week kickoff, where she was joined by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti and a number of high-profile decisionmakers and business leaders. Meanwhile, ASCE Executive Director Tom Smith moderated a panel on rural infrastructure at the East Coast Infrastructure Week kickoff. Past-President Norma Jean Mattei, Ph.D., P.E., F.SEI, M.COPRI, F.ASCE hosted the Southeast Infrastructure Summit in New Orleans, Louisiana, where regional leaders gathered to discuss transportation, energy, economic development, and freight along the Gulf Coast and Mississippi Corridor. Notable speakers at the Southeast Summit included John Bel Edwards, Governor of Louisiana, and the Honorable LaToya Cantrell, Mayor of New Orleans. Also hitting the road, ASCE’s Senior Managing Director Casey Dinges who provided and overview of the Report Card for private equity and financial institutions at InfraDay in New York City, while Managing Director Brian Pallasch participated in a number of panels during the week, including one on resiliency with Senator Jack Reed (D-RI). **Texas Doubles Down on Infrastructure Week** On Wednesday, the Dallas Branch hosted “[North Texas and the Infrastructure Report Card](http://dallasasce.org/content.php?page=texasIRC),” which featured, among other participants, ASCE President-elect Robin Kemper P.E., LEED AP, F.SEI, F.ASCE. Panelists discussed how to make progress on the [2017 Texas Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/texas/) recommendations to raise the grades, and Robin offered a national perspective on the nexus between state and federal activity. Later in the week, the Texas Section convened “[Hurricane Harvey Recovery & Resiliency: The Future of Houston Area Stormwater Infrastructure](http://infrastructureweek.org/event/hurricane-harvey-recovery-resiliency-the-future-of-houston-area-stormwater-infrastructure/).” The morning included a discussion of resiliency plans post-Harvey and featured representatives from Harris County Flood Control District, Texas Water Development Board, FEMA, and the City of Houston. Director of Houston Public Works and ASCE Board of Direction Member Carol Haddock, P.E., M.ASCE participated on the Texas Section’s panel. **Advocacy Spotlight on Alaska** To coincide with Infrastructure Week, the ASCE Alaska Section unveiled a new video to educate the public on Alaska’s unique infrastructure needs, as well as to track progress on the recommendations included in the [2017 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alaska/).The video was released in conjunction with a presentation at the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce and can be viewed [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=Cc_KEWIzSlc&feature=youtu.be). Alaska emphasizes in its video that the state’s future is bright, but targeted and strategic investments from all levels of government are needed to maintain existing assets and prepare for the future. *For a summary of some of the Infrastructure Week D.C. events, keep reading.* **The State of Autonomous Vehicle Innovation and Infrastructure Resiliency** Square Patton Boggs convened two panels on Tuesday, each looking at a “hot topic” in the infrastructure industry. The first, focused on autonomous vehicles, asked how smart infrastructure can keep pace with rapidly changing innovations. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12), a leading voice on Capitol Hill when it comes to vehicle legislation, participated on the panel. She was joined by representatives from Transurban, and Autodesk, and NHTSA. Rep. Dingell discussed her efforts to steer the SELF DRIVE Act through Congress, legislation that supports the safe development and deployment of self-driving vehicles. The second panel was focused on resiliency in infrastructure planning, to minimize the impact of disasters, as well as challenges to innovation. The Mayor of Davenport, Iowa Frank Klipsch was on hand to explain how Davenport has built to accommodate the river, by adding parks to its waterfront and designing its ballpark to function even during severe flooding. **Bipartisan Policy Center Convenes “Putting P3s to Work In the U.S.”** The Bipartisan Policy Center celebrated Infrastructure Week by organizing a public-private partnership [conversation](https://bipartisanpolicy.org/events/putting-p3s-to-work-in-the-united-states/?_cldee=emFjaEBpbmZyYXN0cnVjdHVyZXdlZWsub3Jn&recipientid=contact-8b11976e27e9e41187636c3be5a8f744-0bf2a55c584248e9a4f77eb78264cd36&utm_source=ClickDimensions&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Infrastructure%20%7C%20Putting%20P3s%20to%20Work%20%7C%205.16.18&esid=8fbe62bf-884c-e811-811b-c4346bdc22f1). Speakers included Australian Ambassador to the U.S. Joe Hockey, as well as representatives from BMO Capital Markets, Prince George’s County and Bechtel. Prince George’s County is home to an innovative stormwater P3, which is currently delivering results, including a more educated and sophisticated local workforce. To watch a recording of the conversation, click [here](https://bipartisanpolicy.org/events/putting-p3s-to-work-in-the-united-states/?_cldee=emFjaEBpbmZyYXN0cnVjdHVyZXdlZWsub3Jn&recipientid=contact-8b11976e27e9e41187636c3be5a8f744-0bf2a55c584248e9a4f77eb78264cd36&utm_source=ClickDimensions&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Infrastructure%20%7C%20Putting%20P3s%20to%20Work%20%7C%205.16.18&esid=8fbe62bf-884c-e811-811b-c4346bdc22f1). **Smart Cities/Smart States 2018 Capitol Hill Roundtable** On Tuesday, the Intelligent Transportation Society of America hosted a Smart Cities and Smart States Roundtable. Finch Fulton, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy at the U.S. Department of Transportation, kicked off the event. Panelists included Rebecca Hunter of Crown Castle, Steve Ingracia from the Nebraska Department of Transportation, and Wes Maurer from the Colorado Department of Transportation. Panelists commented on intelligent transportation technologies in both rural and urban areas and how cities and states can prepare infrastructure systems for a future that includes automation. **The Cost of Inaction: A Conversation on U.S. Infrastructure** On Thursday, Business Roundtable brought together leaders in business, government, labor, and infrastructure for a conversation on the importance of investment in infrastructure and the consequences of inaction. Participants in the roundtable included Jamie Dimon, Business Roundtable Chairman and CEO and Chairman of JPMorgan Chase & Co.; Brendan Bechtel, Chairman and CEO of Bechtel; Senator Tom Carper (D-DE); Chuck Todd, NBC *Meet the Press*; and others. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Week%3A%20It%E2%80%99s%20%23TimetoBuild&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [ASCE Helps to Push Missouri One Step Closer to New Transportation Revenue](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-helps-to-push-missouri-one-step-closer-to-new-transportation-revenue/) **Published:** May 24, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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five years, 26 states and the District of Columbia have raised new revenue to support their transportation systems. Last week, Missouri took a step closer to being state no. 27, when a 10-cent-per-gallon gas tax increase cleared the state legislature. The proposal now goes to the voters for approval on the November 6 ballot. ASCE continues to advocate for legislation impacting civil engineering and infrastructure, and the Missouri gas tax increase is one that we’ve been working toward for a long time. Missouri Representative Kevin Corlew (R-Kansas City), invited ASCE’s Managing Director of Government Relations, Brian Pallasch, to testify to the 21st Century Missouri Transportation System Task Force, which was exploring revenue options for the state’s transportation network. In his testimony, Brian emphasized the value of investment in transportation infrastructure and the need for states to raise their own revenue to better leverage federal dollars. On January 1, the 21st Century Task Force chaired by Rep. Corlew, issued a series of [recommendations](https://house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills181/commit/rpt1723/Transportation.pdf) regarding the state’s transportation system and the funding of the system. Among these recommendations was a directive to the legislature to increase the state excise tax on gasoline by 10 cents and on diesel by 12 cents per gallon. To further the conversation and urge legislators to raise revenue for the transportation system, the Kansas City and St. Louis ASCE Sections released the [2018 Report Card for Missouri’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE_Missouri_Brochure_2018_0425-FINALweb-002.pdf) in April. Eleven categories of infrastructure – aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, inland waterways, levees, ports, rail, roads, and stormwater/wastewater – earned a cumulative grade of a “C-.” The Report Card found that Missouri was at risk of losing out on matching federal funds due to dwindling spending power of the state gas tax. Roads in particular had already suffered from the lack of available revenue; the grade decreased from a C in 2013 to a D+ in 2018. Rep. Corlew spoke at the 2018 Report Card release, held on April 26 in the state capitol. Afterwards, ASCE members visited with their state legislators to share the grades and emphasize the recommendations to raise them. On May 18, as the legislative clock wound down, the Missouri legislature approved a 10-cent per gallon gas tax increase. Per Missouri law, the user-fee increase will go before voters on the November 6 ballot. If you’re a Missouri resident, make sure you’re [registered to vote](https://s1.sos.mo.gov/votemissouri/request) so you can go to the polls in November to support the state’s transportation infrastructure. ASCE is looking forward to pushing this initiative across the finish line and further strengthening Missouri’s economy for the generation to come. If you want to get involved in ASCE’s advocacy efforts, join the [Key Contact Program.](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/) Similarly, if you’re curious about legislation in your state that stands to impact civil engineering and our infrastructure, be sure to visit ASCE’s [state track page](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/?0), especially as legislatures reconvene in early 2019. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Helps%20to%20Push%20Missouri%20One%20Step%20Closer%20to%20New%20Transportation%20Revenue&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Missouri, Roads --- ### [Water Resources Development Acts Move Through House & Senate Committees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/water-resources-development-acts-move-through-house-senate-committees/) **Published:** May 24, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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C[ommittee on Environment & Public Works (EPW) ](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=964CD9C3-41E8-4EC6-AD5D-825137A92390)and the [House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure (T&I)](https://transportation.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=402458) held mark-up hearings this week for its respective WRDA bills. Two weeks ago, [ASCE President Kristina Swallow testified](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-president-kristina-swallow-testifies-before-senate-epw-committee/) at the Senate EPW Committee’s first hearing on the America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. ASCE sent the Senate EPW Committee a [letter in support of the bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/FINAL-Support-Letter-SRF-WIN-Act-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_May-2018-1.pdf). Additionally, ASCE applauds the inclusion of the [Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now (SRF WIN) Act](https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=5DEC61E7-6C6C-44B1-AFA6-09349661D012) ([S. 2364](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/2364)/[H.R. 4902](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/4902)) in the Manager’s Amendment of the Senate’s America’s Water Infrastructure Now Act ([S. 2800](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/2800?r=91)), or its Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018. WRDA bills are passed on a biennial cycle and are critically important to the health of our nation’s water resources, which in turn, play a crucial role in the nation’s economy, public safety, and the preservation of our environmental resources. Our nation’s levees, dams, inland waterways, and ports protect hundreds of communities, support millions of American jobs, and generate trillions of dollars of economic activity. Both WRDA bills include reauthorization of the [National Dam Safety Program](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B338ff86b-c4a2-441b-9534-d3c43a53ddb4%7D_Rep._Maloney_National_Dam_Safety_Program_Reauthorization_WRDA_2018_Request_5.4.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-05-11-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and the [National Levee Safety Program](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B47d373ae-977d-428b-9e0c-6ed19bc0d07d%7D_NLSI_Reauthorization_WRDA_2018_Request_4.9.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-04-13-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua), which were two of ASCE members’ “asks” during the March 2018 Legislative Fly-In. The Senate bill also includes reauthorization of the [Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2014-water-resources-reform-development-act/)) program, which last month [issued its first-ever loan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/) to King County, Washington to help finance its Georgetown Wet Weather Treatment Station. The Senate bill also includes a provision that allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to retain user fees at recreation facilities for the use of operation, maintenance, and management at the site where the fee is collected. ASCE urges the committee to follow in the [Trump Administration’s](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-releases-much-anticipated-infrastructure-plan/) lead by authorizing new user fee collection and retention under the [Section 5014 pilot program of WRRDA 2014](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/ASCE-Alt-Finance-for-Waterways-FINAL-12.7.17.pdf). ASCE has been a strong supporter of the bipartisan SRF WIN Act, which is legislation that seeks to help states fund critically important drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects by using a combination of the most successful aspects of both the WIFIA and [State Revolving Fund (SRF)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water/) programs. ASCE [supports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_Letter-of-Support_10.10.17.pdf) this [bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_SRF-WIN-Act_House-Letter-of-Support_2.2.18.pdf) because it offers a new and efficient tool to leverage limited federal resources and stimulate additional investment in our nation’s infrastructure while safeguarding against any cuts to the existing SRF and WIFIA programs. Co-sponsorship of this legislation was another of ASCE members’ “asks” during the March 2018 Legislative Fly-In. As advocates of [alternative water resources financing mechanisms](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/) and [innovative, resilient](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/preparing-for-the-future/) infrastructure, ASCE is pleased that a revised version of this bill was ultimately included in the Manager’s Amendment of the Senate’s America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. Having passed through both the Senate EPW Committee and the House T&I Committee, the WRDA bills now head to the Senate and House floors for a vote. [Contact your Member of Congress and Senators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=472413) asking them to prioritize the investment needs of our nation’s water resources systems by voting in favor of the Water Resources Development Act of 2018. 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Don’t forget to download a few podcasts or audio books, because with millions of drivers on the road this weekend there is a good chance you will spend a few hours sitting in traffic. AAA’s annual *[Memorial Day Travel Forecast](https://newsroom.aaa.com/tag/memorial-day-travel-forecast/)* predicts a 5% increase in travel this holiday weekend – that’s nearly 2 million more people in the air, on the rail, and hitting the road than in 2017, despite [rising gas prices](http://money.cnn.com/2018/05/25/news/economy/gas-prices-memorial-day-summer/index.html). So, if you’re planning on packing up the car to get out of town and celebrate the unofficial start of summer, avoid leaving at the busiest time: the evening of Friday, May 25. Traffic is an issue that is not just confined to holiday weekends. Many people face delays and congestion each day on their commute to work. In 2014, we spent 6.9 billion hours in traffic nationwide, costing the country $160 billion in wasted time and fuel. That is 42 hours per driver, and time that could be spent catching up on work tasks, spending quality time with the family, or planning a fun vacation. To honor those who have served our country and to prepare for the summer months, Congress is currently on recess, meaning many members will be spending time in their districts enjoying time with family and attending Memorial Day parades. If you run into your Senator or Representative, don’t forget to share your thoughts on our aging infrastructure systems and how we can improve our roadways for future holiday travel. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Memorial%20Day%20Weekend%20Travel%3A%20What%20to%20Expect&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, National Category, Rail, Roads, State **Tags:** aviation, rail, rail transportation, railroads, road, roads, travel --- ### [APTA Echoes ASCE with New Study](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/apta-echoes-asce-with-new-study/) **Published:** May 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=APTA%20Echoes%20ASCE%20with%20New%20Study "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=APTA%20Echoes%20ASCE%20with%20New%20Study&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [American Public Transportation Association](http://www.apta.com/Pages/default.aspx) (APTA) recently released a study titled, [*The Economic Cost of Failing to Modernize Public Transportation*](https://www.apta.com/resources/reportsandpublications/Documents/APTA-Economic-Cost-Failing-to-Modernize.pdf). The study analyzes the potential impact of failing to invest in the modernization of America’s public transportation infrastructure. The study conclusions echoes [ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card’s](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/link) finding of public transit as a “D-”, the lowest grade received by any U.S. category of infrastructure. It also reveals that in the next six years alone, failure to invest in these systems will cause a loss of $340 billion in cumulative business sales, $109 billion in disposable income for American families, and 162,000 jobs. More specifically, the report states that areas where infrastructure modernization has not occurred are less resilient than those that are up to date. APTA’s study focuses on the economic benefits connected to improved infrastructure, and future costs associated with a lack of action. Furthermore, the study provides insight into addressing infrastructure modernization through case study analysis of six areas: San Francisco, Southeastern Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Atlanta, Chicago, and Washington D.C. State of Good Repair (SGR), also known as public transportation infrastructure modernization, has become increasingly difficult to attain given the continual funding constraints. With a growing population, it is important that we address the issue and improve our failing transportation systems. In 2013 the Government Accountability Office (GAO) took notice reporting that “establishing relationships between SGR investments and performance effects … would help agencies make prioritization decisions and justify funding.” Although “transit agencies do a remarkable job of protecting system users from failures”, delayed action and investment from Capitol Hill is leading to significant, long-term economic costs costing each American family $3,400 per year, or $9 a day, according to [ASCE’s Failure to Act report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/). Moving forward, the study suggests advocating for secured funding on the state and national levels, a suggestion parallel to ASCE’s recommendations. It’s time to begin to hold politicians on all levels accountable to their campaign promises of large-scale infrastructure investment, inclusive of significant funding for public transit systems. 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email")](mailto:?subject=APTA%20Echoes%20ASCE%20with%20New%20Study&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Transit --- ### [NEHRP Reauthorization: ASCE Members Testify in Huntington Beach](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nehrp-reauthorization-asce-members-testify-in-huntington-beach/) **Published:** June 1, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=NEHRP%20Reauthorization%3A%20ASCE%20Members%20Testify%20in%20Huntington%20Beach&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Nearly a decade after it’s authorization expired, Congress may finally be getting around to reauthorizing the [National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program](https://nehrp.gov/) (NEHRP). The Senate made the first move last fall with the introduction by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) of the [S.1768 – NEHRP Reauthorization Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1768). The bill would reauthorize the program to improve the nation’s earthquake preparedness. The bill was later discharged by the Senate Commerce Committee and could be brought to the Senate floor at any time. ASCE has endorsed this bill and is urging the House to draft similar legislation.![Panel of formally dressed men in a conference room, one speaking into a microphone while others listen, with water bottles on the table and nameplates in view.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/NEHRP-Testimony-5.31.2018-for-blog-400x264.png "NEHRP Testimony 5.31.2018 - for blog") Yesterday, the House Science Committee held a [field hearing](https://science.house.gov/legislation/hearings/field-hearing-earthquake-mitigation-reauthorizing-national-earthquake-hazards) in Huntington Beach, CA on the program and plans to introduce its own reauthorization bill in June. Testifying on behalf of ASCE was [Chris Poland, P.E., S.E., NAE, M.ASCE, F.SEI](http://www.cdpce.com), who has long been a proponent of NEHRP. In his opening statement, Poland noted that the lack of authorization has weakened the program’s overall effectiveness in the recent past and going forward. This comes at a time when the nation’s earthquake risk continues to grow due to population growth, urban development, and the deteriorating condition of the built environment. A second ASCE member participated in the hearing, [Steve McCabe, Ph.D., P.E., M.ASCE](https://www.nehrp.gov/contact/mccabe.htm), Director, National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program; group leader, Earthquake Engineering Group, National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST). First created in 1977, NEHRP coordinates federal research to understand and mitigate the impact of earthquakes and is made up of NIST, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Science Foundation, and can draw on the expertise of other federal and state agencies. Through NEHRP, the federal government has engaged in seismic monitoring, mapping, research, testing, engineering, and related reference materials for building code development, mitigation, and emergency preparedness. NEHRP has served as the backbone for protecting U.S. citizens, their property and the national economy from the devastating effects of large earthquakes. Although NEHRP is well known for its research programs, it is also the source for hundreds of new technologies, maps, design techniques, and standards that are used by design professionals every day to mitigate risks and save lives, protect property, and reduce adverse economic impacts. The program was last reauthorized between 2004 and 2009, when the program underwent the some of the most significant changes in its history with strong support and contributions from ASCE and others in the earthquake risk reduction and research communities. Since the authorization expired in October of 2009, ASCE members have testified at four hearings between 2011 and 2015. Over the years, reauthorization efforts have received no overt opposition but usually fell victim to unrelated partisan conflicts and a lack of strong Congressional leadership. As drafted, [S. 1768](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1768), would permanently reauthorize NEHRP, as opposed to the 5-year reauthorizations it received in the past. Other changes include: - emphasizing the continued development of earthquake early warning systems; - requiring the production of maps showing active faults and folds, liquefaction susceptibility and other hazards that can be induced by an earthquake; - enhancing coordination among federal agencies, and with state agencies; and - directing the completion of a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s earthquake risk reduction progress, as well as remaining areas that require more funding. ASCE, along with others in the earthquake community including, most prominently, the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute and the Seismological Society of America worked with Senators Feinstein and Murkowski in drafting the bill. ASCE will continue to work on both sides of Capitol Hill to move this legislation forward. Add your voice to ours by contacting your [Members of Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=393553) to urge them to support to the reauthorization of the NEHRP program. 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email")](mailto:?subject=National%20Dam%20Safety%20Awareness%20Day%20Across%20the%20Country&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On May 31, individuals and organizations across the country recognized [National Dam Safety Awareness Day](https://damsafety.org/NDSAD). This event is held each year in memory of the May 31, 1889 South Fork Dam failure in Johnstown, PA – the nation’s worst dam failure. Today, many organizations used the day as an opportunity to look back on the category that earned a “D” grade in the [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and learn from past dam failures. It was also an opportunity to look to the future of dam safety and better understand how our country can improve dam safety programs and the impact that investment in this infrastructure category could have. **Across the Country** In [California](http://www.actionnewsnow.com/content/news/National-Dam-Safety-Awareness-Day-Reminds-Everyone-to-Have-a-Plan-484220351.html), Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) took advantage of National Dam Safety Awareness Day to remind people about the risk associated with living near a dam. Americans, and Californians in particular, can recall the evacuations in February of 2017 when the Oroville Dam Spillway failed. To avoid another disaster like this one, PG&E spokesperson, Paul Moreno said it is important for people to have evacuation plans. In [Michigan](http://wkar.org/post/safety-demonstration-shows-potential-dangers-dams), the City of Lansing’s Office of Emergency Management held a safety demonstration near the North Lansing Dam. Emergency Manager Mike Tobin discussed the danger of dams and the importance of safety when it comes to these infrastructure systems. **Dam Safety Programs** In general, most states have a dam safety program that is responsible for safety inspections, maintenance, and the creation and implementation of emergency action plans (EAPs). However, the exception to this is Alabama. In the [*2015 Report Card for Alabama’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alabama/), the state received the only “Incomplete” grade given on a Report Card. Of the estimated 2,200 dams in the state, only about 2% are being inspected and have EAPs. This is the only state in the country without a State Dam Safety Program and an inventory of dams, putting residents in surrounding areas at risk. **How You Can Help** To further national dam safety programs, ASCE has been advocating in favor of the Water Resources Development Act 2018 (WRDA) and the National Dam Rehabilitation Program. WRDA 2018 has been marked up by both the House and Senate and is expected to advance to a vote by the full chamber next week. Show your support for [WRDA 2018](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?1&engagementId=472413) and for the [National Dam Rehabilitation Program](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=307175) to receive funding by contacting your member of Congress today! 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email")](mailto:?subject=National%20Dam%20Safety%20Awareness%20Day%20Across%20the%20Country&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alabama, California, Dams, Michigan, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State **Tags:** Alabama, California, dam, Dam Safety, Dam Safety Program, Michigan --- ### [Eno Paper Finds Tools for Improving Public Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/eno-paper-finds-tools-for-improving-public-transit/) **Published:** June 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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legacy systems, are increasing. ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/link) gave public transit a “D-”, the lowest grade given to a U.S. infrastructure category, largely due to the ever growing $90 billion in rehabilitation costs. Eno recently released a paper titled “[Tools for a Smoother Ride: Managing Rail Assets and Leveraging Competition](https://www.enotrans.org/etl-material/tools-for-a-smoother-ride-managing-rail-assets-and-leveraging-competition/)” focused on the inadequacy of current infrastructure practices in maintaining our transit rail infrastructure both today and into the future. First and foremost, the authors of the report, Paul Lewis and Malcolm Kenton, establish that funding must be part of the solution. For decades, rail infrastructure has been drastically underfunded leading to large future costs. Additionally, the authors found that asset mismanagement has become commonplace in most rail systems. The lack of an asset management plan has led to priority and funding mismatch when it comes to addressing the most needed issues. Finally, the authors found that most rail systems were maintained in-house versus contracted out to private companies. Younger rail systems are more likely to contract out in order to gain expertise, but few older systems have adopted contracting out maintenance efforts. The authors recommend five sequential steps as vital for the revival of America’s public rail transit. 1. Design and implement an effective asset management plan 2. Do not negatively affect the compensation of the existing workforce 3. Track and test alternative methods of infrastructure maintenance 4. Carry out a fair and functional procurement process and write an effective contract 5. Administer contracts effectively The first step encourages agencies to adopt asset management plans. With an effective asset management plan, rail systems will be better suited to match public demand with the assets available. Asset management plans also allow agencies to inventory their assets, have advanced knowledge about the condition of their assets, and prioritize limited available funding. Performance metrics should be an important component of any asset management plan. Step two focuses on how contracting out services cannot be used to undermine workers and cut costs. Successfully contracting must bring in accountability and expertise to help improve the system. The third step focuses on testing methods of maintenance to understand the best practices for a given region. Eno notes that presently, there is a dearth of information available to compare the effectiveness of different methods of maintenance, leading to inconclusive best practices. The authors suggest transit agencies consider contracting out the maintenance of one line in a system and benchmarking that line with others under the same system. By comparing the results, a regional rail system can identify what type of maintenance is most effective for itself. The fourth and fifth step relate to effective contract creation, negotiation, and administration. For any of these steps to be worthwhile, the final contracts must successfully address the issues at hand and provide accountability for the work being done. These contracts provide the public with a necessary good and the private with long-term opportunities to grow. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Eno%20Paper%20Finds%20Tools%20for%20Improving%20Public%20Transit&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, Transit **Tags:** 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, asset management, contracting, Eno, future, Rail system, transit --- ### [Congress Prepares for WRDA Floor Debate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-prepares-for-wrda-floor-debate/) **Published:** June 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Development Act](https://www.epw.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=FAE6C020-0E5B-4D16-953D-564691D195D5) (WRDA), in the coming weeks after about six months of Committee work, drafting, and negotiation. WRDA proposes continued American investment into infrastructure like dams, levees, and ports. If approved, WRDA will authorize water programs vital to American economic growth. On the House side, the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee unanimously approved the bipartisan bill. On Tuesday June 5, the House Rules Committee took up WRDA, or [H.R. 8](https://rules.house.gov/bill/115/hr-8), to discuss the terms of debate and amendments for floor debate. It is expected that a House vote on WRDA will take place tonight June 6. ASCE has been a longtime advocate of one of WRDA’s main tenants—public-private partnerships (P3s). P3s provide the federal government with a way to incentivize private investment to help fund necessary infrastructure projects that serve the public interest. ASCE believes that Congressional authorizers must fully utilize alternative financing and delivery methods when appropriate, including implementation of both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (USACE’s) Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and Section 5014 of Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014 (WRRDA). WIFIA, through the EPA and the USACE, administers federal credit to eligible water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Additionally, Section 5014 of WRRDA authorizes the Secretary of the Army to enter into P3s to finance construction of at least 15 authorized water development programs. There continues to be a growing gap in the needed investment to sustain America’s inland waterways. ASCE understands the importance of addressing this issue based on the grade of a “D” given to the nation’s inland waterways, a “D” in dams, a “D” in levees, and a “C+” in ports in ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/link). ASCE supports WRDA because it effectively addresses the need to close the investment gap in these four areas. Both the Senate and the House WRDA bills have the bipartisan support necessary to ensure the future of America’s infrastructure. By connecting private funds and local level water-related infrastructure plans, WRDA will improve overall American infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congress%20Prepares%20for%20WRDA%20Floor%20Debate&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, Drinking Water, Inland Waterways, Levees, Ports, Wastewater **Tags:** congress, P3s, public-private partnership, WIFIA, WRDA, wrrda --- ### [California Infrastructure Propositions Win at Primaries](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/california-infrastructure-propositions-win-at-primaries/) **Published:** June 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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68 and Propositions 69 in addition to making their candidate selections for November’s general election. These measures needed only a simple majority to pass: - [Proposition 68](http://www.lao.ca.gov/BallotAnalysis/Proposition?number=68&year=2018), approved with 56% of the vote, will provide $4.1 billion in funding to various natural resources-related programs. California is facing severe droughts, wildfires and the impacts of a changing climate. This funding measure will help protect and improve the State’s water, parks and natural resource programs. - [Proposition 69](http://www.lao.ca.gov/BallotAnalysis/Proposition?number=69&year=2018), approved with 80% of the vote, ensures that the additional revenue allocated from SB 1 will only be able to be used for transportation improvement projects. Each measure was designated to appear on the June ballot by the State Legislature. Proposition 68 was sponsored by State Senator Kevin de Leon (D-24) and easily cleared the legislature to receive the Governor’s signature last fall. Proposition 69 was part of the transportation funding package included in the Road Repair and Accountability Act (SB 1) passed in April 2017. Californians may see an additional infrastructure measure on November’s ballot seeking the repeal of the gas tax increase. This measure is being driven by residents and requires the certification of over 300,000 valid signatures. We expect to see the result of the signature verification in the upcoming weeks. Should the repeal make its way on the ballot, ASCE joins [Fix Our Roads](https://fixcaroads.com/) in urging a “no” vote on the repeal of the SB 1 gas tax increase. To learn more about how SB 1 dollars are currently being used in your community visit [RebuildingCA](http://rebuildingca.ca.gov/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=California%20Infrastructure%20Propositions%20Win%20at%20Primaries&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2018 ballot initiatives, state, transportation, water infrastructure --- ### [States Wrap Up Legislative Sessions For 2018](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/states-wrap-up-legislative-sessions-for-2018/) **Published:** June 7, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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in several states acted this year to make investments to address their states’ infrastructure needs. In **Colorado,** Governor John Hickenlooper (D) [signed a major bill](http://www.ttnews.com/articles/colorado-gov-john-hickenlooper-signs-bill-fund-road-projects) to fund transportation infrastructure projects. The legislation calls for periodic transfers from the state’s general fund to the state’s highway fund totaling $645 million over the next two years. These funds would be split between the state, localities, and transit or multi-modal projects. The package also included a $2.3 billion bond measure that would be put to voters on the November 2019 ballot. In the meantime, voters may expect to see two ballot measures this November: one seeking to raise the sales tax to increase funds to address CDOT’s backlog, and a second urging the legislature to address the state’s transportation shortfall without raising taxes. Petitions for these measures must be filed by August 6. While the **Connecticut** General Assembly avoided potential [rail and bus fare hikes](https://ctmirror.org/2018/05/17/new-budget-place-malloy-cancels-rail-bus-fare-hikes/) this session, they failed to enact a long-term fix for Connecticut’s congested roads and crumbling bridges. The legislature agreed to divert millions of dollars in tax revenue from car sales to the Special Transportation Fund and to use discretionary bonding to keep the fund solvent. In addition to avoiding bus fare increases and service reductions, the move restored $4.3 billion in road, rail, and bridge projects that had been postponed due to a lack of money. In November, Connecticut voters will be asked to vote on imposing a “lockbox” on state transportation revenue. If passed, Connecticut would join nearly 30 states in protecting their transportation dollars. In nearby **Massachusetts**, an 18-member panel appointed by Governor Charlie Baker (R) will study the state’s future transportation needs after a report last year suggested Massachusetts is not financially prepared for changes to the climate and how people get around. The [Commission on the Future of Transportation in the Commonwealth](https://blog.mass.gov/transportation/massdot-highway/governor-baker-creates-commission-on-the-future-of-transportation-in-the-commonwealth/) will report back by December, after looking into how an array of factors could affect transportation in the state between 2020 and 2040. Policymakers in **Iowa** and **Pennsylvania** took action on water infrastructure issues. In Iowa, the legislature passed a bill committing [$282 million](https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/politics/2018/01/27/iowa-water-quality-what-282-million-bill-means-iowans/1068634001/) to water quality initiatives over the next 12 years. For farmers, it means about $150 million in new funding for cover crops, bioreactors, and saturated buffers as they seek to curb the high levels of nitrates and phosphorous entering Iowa’s waterways. Another $126 million over a dozen years will be made available for cities and towns to improve drinking and wastewater facilities. Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf (D) recently announced the investment of [$60 million](https://www.governor.pa.gov/governor-wolf-announces-60-million-investment-water-infrastructure-projects-12-counties/) for 12 drinking water, wastewater, and non-point source projects across 12 counties through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority ([PENNVEST](http://www.pennvest.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx)). Founded in 1988 PENNVEST funds sewer, storm water, and drinking water projects throughout the Commonwealth to improve the environment and health of Pennsylvanians. With a [three-cent increase](https://itep.org/most-states-have-raised-gas-taxes-in-recent-years/) set to go into effect on June 27, **Oklahoma** joins 26 other states that have raised or reformed their gas taxes since 2013. The state’s first gas tax increase since 1987 will be directed to a transportation infrastructure fund, while money from a general fund that was previously allocated for transportation will now be directed to a pay increase for teachers. The number of states with a gas tax increase could soon rise again, to 28, depending on the outcome of a 10-cent increase **[Missouri](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-helps-to-push-missouri-one-step-closer-to-new-transportation-revenue/)** residents will vote on in November. If approved, the tax increase could generate as much as $293 million per year for the state police and $128 million annually for local road construction. Finally, there are also notably two states that failed to take action this year to address their looming problems. In **Kentucky**, lawmakers failed to act on a proposed gas tax increase meant to address $1 billion backlog in unfunded resurfacing needs and more than 1,000 bridges in need of repair. And, in **Mississippi**, legislative leaders are now faced with [bridge closures](https://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2018/05/24/mississippi-governor-bridges-lawsuit-dismissed/642883002/) due to a federally mandated re-inspection of timber bridges. Gov. Phil Bryant in April issued an unprecedented emergency declaration, forcing nearly 100 bridges across the state to close to meet the federal mandate. 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ASCE member Dr. Robert Traver, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Villanova University’s College of Engineering, was one of the presenters, along with Chris Peot, Director of Resource Recovery at the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority, and Gregory Evanylo, Professor of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences at Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. One of the negative effects of urban development are combined sewer overflows, or CSOs. Shared stormwater and wastewater treatment systems often face capacity issues when there is a large influx of water; the resulting CSOs discharge untreated wastewater and stormwater, often containing agricultural runoff and toxic substances, directly into nearby bodies of water and are one of the leading sources of water pollution in the nation. As a growing number of Americans rely on centralized wastewater utilities, the occurrence of CSOs puts the public health of communities and local ecosystems at great risk. Dr. Traver spoke about the groundbreaking green infrastructure work being done at Villanova University and in the City of Philadelphia in developing resilient, green infrastructure systems to mitigate stormwater runoff, including [porous pavements](https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/engineering/research/centers/vcase/vusp1/research/pervious-concrete-.html), [rain gardens](https://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/engineering/research/centers/vcase/vusp1/research/bio-infiltration-rain-garden.html) (and [here](http://www.kidzoou.org/Earth-Friendly-KidZooU/Water-Conservation/Saving-Water.htm) and [here](http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2017/09/08/penndot-villanova-team-up-for-i-95-rain-garden-project/)), and [stormwater tree trenches.](http://www.phillywatersheds.org/what_were_doing/community_partnerships/programs/soak-it-adoption/green-stormwater-tools/how-does-it-work) Several of these systems are designed to capture up to two inches of rainfall per rainfall, better managing stormwater overflows and helping prevent pollutants from entering our rivers and lakes. Green infrastructure systems provide ancillary benefits such as improved air and water quality, reduced noise pollution, increased recreational opportunities, aesthetic value to communities, and cost competitiveness with more gray forms of infrastructure. As advocates of policies that ensure public health, a strong economy, and clean and safe water sources, ASCE has been proud to endorse two bipartisan pieces of legislation that advance green infrastructure systems – [H.R. 3906](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/3906), the [Innovative Stormwater Infrastructure Act of 2017](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/ASCE_Innovative-Stormwater-Infrastructure-Act_Letter-of-Support_1.30.18.pdf), and [H.R. 2943](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2943), the [Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grant Program Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/ASCE_ORLP-Grant-Program-Act_-Letter-of-Support_3.9.18.pdf). The Innovative Stormwater Infrastructure Act establishes up to five nationwide centers of excellence, invests in community-based stormwater control projects, and promotes public-private partnerships in the design and construction of innovative stormwater control infrastructure. The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grant Program Act creates a dedicated source of funding of up to $25 million to expand outdoor recreation opportunities in urban communities and to promote the development of public-private partnerships for such projects. In addition to acting as strong economic drivers, urban parks create dual-use spaces for both recreation and green infrastructure stormwater management systems such as rain gardens. As we work towards closing our nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure investment gap, we must utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure is more resilient and sustainable. ASCE applauds the efforts being made to develop innovative green infrastructure systems and will continue to work to advance such policies at all levels of government. 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invitation only event with U.S. Department of Transportation (US DOT) Secretary Elaine Chao announcing the Department’s release of nearly [$1.5 billion in grants](https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/us-department-transportation-proposes-nearly-15-billion-infra-grants) to fund the Infrastructure for Rebuilding America or “INFRA” program for freight, highway, and bridge improvements created by the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act of 2015. Additionally, US DOT announced that through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP), $677 million in AIP grants will be awarded to [over 200 airports across the United States](https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/grantapportion_data/media/FY18-AIP-Grants-Announced-2018-06-08.pdf) for airport infrastructure projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, and terminals. Secretary Chao was joined by Mr. Jim Ray, Senior Adviser to the Secretary for Infrastructure; Governor Bruce Rauner (R-IL); Mr. Ed Hamberger, President of the Association of American Railroads; Mr. Daniel Elwell, Acting FAA Administrator; Congressman Bill Shuster (R-PA), Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure; Ms. Candace McGraw, Chair of Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA); and the Honorable Jeff Rosen, US DOT Deputy Secretary. Each speaking participant highlighted key projects in surface transportation and aviation across the United States. Under the FAST Act, the Nationally Significant Freight and Highway Projects (NSFHP) program was established to provide financial assistance through competitive grants, known as FASTLANE grants, to significant freight and highway projects across the nation. In 2017, US DOT rebranded FASTLANE grants as INFRA grants, with grant program objectives still in effect. Established under the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982, AIP provides grants to public agencies – and in some cases, to private owners and entities – for the planning and development of public use airports that are included in the National Plan of integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Both grant programs are key revenue tools that help improve our nation’s transportation infrastructure. ASCE has long supported both the INFRA and AIP grant programs and has urged Congress to fully fund each program at their authorized level. The funds awarded in INFRA and AIP grants were appropriated by Congress in fiscal year (FY) 2018 Omnibus Spending Bill. The efforts of ASCE’s government relations team secured program funding for FAST Act related programs which includes $825.3 million for INFRA grants. ASCE also worked to secured an extra $1 billion in general fund money for AIP grants to smaller airports in addition to the current authorization level of $3.35 billion. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card*, graded our nation’s bridges, roads, rail, and aviation infrastructure a “C+,” “D,” “B,” and “D,” respectfully. These grades reflect an under investment in key components of our nation’s infrastructure network and we continue to urge Congress and the Administration to act and find ways to rebuild and invest in our nation. ![Woman in a light suit speaks at a podium on a stage with blue curtains, surrounded by U.S. flags and a banner reading 'INFRA — Connecting America'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/chao-400x300.jpg "chao") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Roads **Tags:** Airports, bridges, FASTLANE Grants, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, rail, Rail system, rail transportation, roads, USDOT --- ### [Preparing Infrastructure for Autonomous Vehicles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/preparing-infrastructure-for-autonomous-vehicles/) **Published:** June 14, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Preparing%20Infrastructure%20for%20Autonomous%20Vehicles&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Preparing%20Infrastructure%20for%20Autonomous%20Vehicles "Share on 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The Senators’ questions were fielded by a five-member panel including William Panos, Director of the Wyoming Department of Transportation; Shailen Bhatt, President and CEO of Intelligent Transportation Society of America; Dr. Zachary Doerzaph, Director of the Center for Advanced Automotive Research; Polly Trottenberg, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Transportation; and Dr. Shaun Kildare, Director of Research of the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. Chairman Senator Barrasso (R-WY) focused his opening statement on the importance of flexibility in America’s infrastructure as autonomous vehicles are introduced. With new challenges on the horizon, “state and federal transportation agencies \[must be\] prepared and equipped to attack the potential opportunities” said Sen. Barrasso. Throughout his opening statement, Barrasso stressed the need for bipartisan support and intergovernmental work to improve America’s infrastructure. The Chairman concluded by thanking the panel and stating that he looks forward to discussing the challenges and opportunities related to innovative technology and infrastructure. Ranking member Senator Carper’s (D-DE) opening statement began with the history of infrastructure from the “horseless carriage” to the automobile to ever-changing roadways. In 2016 alone nearly 40,000 Americans died in roadway accidents, cited Sen. Carper, a number he hopes will decrease with the introduction of autonomous vehicles. Senator Carper emphasized the importance of addressing how a large-scale change in America’s roads and bridges could be funded. He ended by explaining his optimism for the introduction of this new technology and his apprehension in allowing the release of a technology without healthy regulations. Repeatedly, all five members of the panel voiced their support for increased funding for America’s roads and bridges. Commissioner Trottenberg emphasized that solving the congestion problem of metropolitan areas began with “robust investment in our mass transit systems” and later explained that the benefits of autonomous vehicles do not compare to the efficiencies of mass transit. ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/link) echoes this sentiment by focusing on the over $2 billion investment gap needed to improve both our roads and bridges. “There needs to be more funding available for transportation” said Bhatt in response to Senator Rounds’ (R-SD) question, which proposed a subsection of the Highway Trust Fund dedicated to preparing roads for the introduction of autonomous vehicles. Furthermore, Bhatt ended his response by asking the question, “How do we use investment to leverage both the existing infrastructure and the technology investment?” In the course of the hearing, ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card was cited twice. In his opening statement, Dr. Shaun Kildare stressed the dire need to invest in America’s infrastructure by citing ASCE’s grade of “[D](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/)” for U.S. roads. Similarly, Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) used ASCE’s Report Card to stress the investment gap for our roads, America’s grade of “D” for roads, and the fact that 20% of our nation’s highways have poor pavement conditions. 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The ASCE Kansas City and Kansas Sections gave the state an overall grade of a ‘C,’ an increase from the 2013 grade of “C-.” Five categories earned “C” grades: Bridges, Drinking Water, Energy, Levees, and Rail. The remaining four received “C-” grades: Aviation, Dams, Roads, and Stormwater. The state’s G.P.A. improved thanks to investments in several categories of infrastructure, including bridges, dams, and levees. The energy category also improved when compared to 2013, in part due to developments in renewable energy. Residents also enjoy affordable energy prices. However, areas of concern included the aviation and roads categories, both of which saw drops in grades when compared to 2013. This is in part due to the Kansas State Legislature’s actions to divert funds from the Transportation Works for Kanas (T-WORKS) statewide program to the general fund, in an effort to balance Kansas’ budget. Much-needed modernization and expansion projects across the state have now been delayed, and preservation dollars have slowed, as T-WORKS funding is diverted. In addition to assessing nine categories of infrastructure, the Kansas Report Card also offered solutions to raise the grades. For starters, engineers caution that while recent investments are yielding results, state decision-makers should not let challenging budget cycles inhibit progress. Lawmakers must meet existing T-WORKS funding obligations, as well as identify new revenue by increasing user fees. Second, ASCE members applauded the Kansas State Legislature for passing legislation that increases funding for public schools and urged localities to take advantage of a provision in the bill that allows for more bonding of school facilities. The 2013 Report Card included a chapter on schools, but due to lack of data this category is not graded in the 2018 report. The updated Report Card urges better documentation of the condition of public school facilities across the state. Finally, ASCE recommends strategic and purposeful investments be made in Kansas’ freight network to preserve Kansas City’s position as an intermodal hub. Freight traffic is forecasted to grow over the next decade, and while freight rail is preparing, funding for short line rail and roadways is insufficient. To read the full *2018 Report Card for Kansas’ Infrastructure*, and to learn how to get involved in sharing the grades, please visit the Kansas page by clicking [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kansas/). 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[Fiscal Year 2019 Homeland Security Appropriations bill](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/minority/appropriations-vice-chair-leahy-summary-of-the-department-of-homeland-security-fy19-appropriations-bill). The $48.334 billion bill, which is an increase of $611 million compared to the FY18 enacted level, includes $250 million for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis, which is a $12.5 million decrease from the FY18 enacted level, as well as $250 million for FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program, which is a $1.2 million increase from the FY18 enacted level. ASCE is incredibly pleased that the bill includes $15 million for the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program, a program enacted in the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act of 2016 that provides federal grant assistance for the rehabilitation, repair, or removal of non-federal high hazard potential dams. High hazard potential dams are those whose failure is anticipated to cause a loss of life. This marks the first time since the program’s enactment that it has received a line-item funding amount in the Homeland Security appropriations bill. Earlier this year, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) led a group of 16 Senators in [sending a letter](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7Ba5649fec-5fe0-46c5-a3d4-b626dbf5b7e8%7D_GR-High_Hazard_Potential_Dam_Rehab_FY19_Appropriations_Letter_4.27.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-05-04-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security requesting the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program’s full $25 million authorization in FY19. ASCE has been a strong advocate for this program on Capitol Hill, first in securing authorization for the program and now in working to ensure funding for it. ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* gave nation’s 90,580 [dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) a grade of “D,” and ASDSO estimates that it would cost nearly $22 billion to rehabilitate just the high hazard potential dams in the nation. The High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program is a vital tool in protecting local communities and their economies and would be a step in the right direction towards repairing our nation’s infrastructure. T[ell your Senators to support the FY19 Homeland Security appropriations bill](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=307175), which includes funding for the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program, when it makes its way to the Senate floor! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Appropriators%20Fund%20High%20Hazard%20Dam%20Rehab%20Program&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Dams, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** appropriations, dams, senate --- ### [California Transportation Investment at Stake in November](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/california-transportation-investment-at-stake-in-november/) **Published:** June 26, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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state’s gas tax for the first time in 23 years. Gov. Jerry Brown praised the decision and signed the bill, [SB1](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB1), into law, ushering in $5 billion worth of revenue to pay for roads, bridges, and transit projects that would increase safety, ease congestion, and enhance mobility around the state. Unfortunately, that watershed bill is now in jeopardy as the California Secretary of State announced Monday that a repeal effort was certified for the November 2018 ballot. Repealing SB1 will halt progress already well underway to modernize the state’s transportation network. [The evidence is clear from the before-and-after gallery that these investments are yielding results. ](http://rebuildingca.ca.gov/gallery.html)However, if voters agree to repeal the law, all funding for future projects (planned out for the next 10 years) will go away. Cities and Counties will lose out on $26 billion, and the state highway system will lose out on another $26 billion. Not only will improvements stop, current conditions will get worse. The law was initially passed on the cusp of a $59 billion shortfall to adequately maintain the existing state highway system in order to keep it in a basic state of good repair. Repealing SB1 will mean that shortfall is once again a reality. The American Society of Civil Engineers has joined a broad coalition to oppose the repeal of SB1. [The Coalition to Protect Local Transportation](https://fixcaroads.com/) Improvements issues a [news release](https://fixcaroads.com/broad-coalition-vows-defeat-ballot-measure-jeopardize-public-safety-deteriorate-californias-unsafe-crumbling-roads-bridges/) when the measure was certified to be on the November ballot, stating in part “The measure would make our roads and bridges less safe by eliminating funding for more than 5,000 local road and bridge safety and transportation improvement projects throughout the state.” In the fall, ASCE will release the next Report Card for California’s Infrastructure transportation grades so that voters have this information before they head to the polls or mail in their ballots. If you live in California, [educate yourself about what projects in your community are thanks to SB1 funding](http://rebuildingca.ca.gov/map.html) and share the [facts with your neighbors](https://fixcaroads.com/myths-and-facts/). 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email")](mailto:?subject=California%20Transportation%20Investment%20at%20Stake%20in%20November&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, California, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** 2018 ballot initiatives, bridges, California, gas tax, roads, SB1, transit --- ### [Trump Administration’s Reorganization Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trump-administrations-reorganization-plan/) **Published:** June 28, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Reform](https://oversight.house.gov/) examined the [Trump Administration’s government-wide reorganization plan](https://oversight.house.gov/hearing/examining-the-administrations-government-wide-reorganization-plan/) and shared thoughts and ideas about the proposals, which included infrastructure-related issues. The proposal is still in its early stages and will require congressional approval for any changes to occur. Margaret Weichert, Deputy Director for the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), spoke on behalf of the Administration. She presented a notable change for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), proposing a reduced number of missions within the USACE Civil Works program, which include transferring the navigation activities to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT), while the remaining activities, including flood and storm damage reduction, aquatic ecosystem restoration, hydropower, and regulatory to the U.S. Department of the Interior. These changes will not affect the USACE’s defense mission but will break up existing issues with bureaucratic red tape within the civilian sector. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) expressed concerns about the permitting process facing the infrastructure industry. Palmer gave multiple examples of delayed permitting costing millions of dollars, saying “We’re literally throwing our infrastructure dollars down the drain with these infrastructure delays.” Weichert responded by emphasizing how this proposal attempts to reduce regulatory burden and increase economic output. According to Weichert, this proposal will increase intra-agency communication and consolidate overlapping agencies. By doing so, Weichert believes the permitting process will become more efficient and less time-consuming. While the committee mentioned the changes proposed to the USACE, no Members asked questions about how those changes would be enacted. Throughout the course of the hearing, the committee focused on different details of the bill, including air traffic control privatization and moving airport security from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to the USDOT. Additionally, many members of the committee agreed that there is room for improving government organization. Finally, this proposal is in its early stages. The changes proposed require the approval of Congress to become a law. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Trump%20Administration%E2%80%99s%20Reorganization%20Plan&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [New Report Explores Planning for America's Water Infrastructure Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-explores-planning-for-americas-water-infrastructure-needs/) **Published:** July 13, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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water infrastructure industry, in association with The Bill Lane Center for the American West at Stanford University, released a report titled “[Planning for America’s Water Infrastructure Need](https://files-west-stanford-edu.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/publications/americas_water_infrastructure_needs_may_2018_web.pdf?ryu4cJXRJwRoD7AlhJp1HMJwmyFngzu),” which focuses on shared interests and challenges likely to face water infrastructure in the future. The report came out of a [workshop held in February](https://west.stanford.edu/events/planning-america-s-water-infrastructure-needs) that reviewed the challenges in aging water infrastructure through the lens of funding, leadership, streamlined investment procedures, education, and interconnectivity. The group, which included ASCE representative Greg DiLoreto, Chair of the Committee on America’s Infrastructure and Past President, then explored possible policy options at the federal, state and local levels for further research and/or decision-maker consideration. The report explores several policy suggestions: - “Looping water,” so that it imitates the natural water cycle loop - Making infrastructure more resilient - Increased funding from all levels of government and the private sector The solutions proposed by this interdisciplinary workshop further support [ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/): investment, leadership & planning, and preparing for the future. 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Report%20Explores%20Planning%20for%20America%E2%80%99s%20Water%20Infrastructure%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Drinking Water, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Drinking Water, investment, leadership --- ### [Congressman Curbelo Introduces Bill to Tax Carbon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressman-curbelo-introduces-bill-to-tax-carbon/) **Published:** July 24, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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6463](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6463?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22hr+6463%22%5D%7D&r=1), the Modernizing America with Rebuilding to Kick-start the Economy of the Twenty-first Century with a Historic Infrastructure-Centered Expansion Act, or the “MARKET CHOICE Act.” This bill would amend the tax code to add tax equal to $24 per metric ton of carbon dioxide (CO2), with inflation adjustment, to pay for infrastructure improvements and reduce harmful pollution. Under this legislation’s 10-year window, the carbon tax would provide needed revenue in our infrastructure and energy assistance programs. Specifically, for our infrastructure, $692.1 billion, or 70% of tax revenue, would go towards fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF); $24.7 billion, or 2.5% of tax revenue, would be directed towards the Airport and Airways Trust Fund; $49.4 billion, or 5% of tax revenue, would be directed towards coastal infrastructure; and $988.8 million, or .1% of tax revenue, for the Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Fund. For our energy assistance programs, $98.8 billion, or 10% of tax revenue, would go towards low income energy assistance; $14.6 billion, or 1.5% of tax revenue, would be directed towards weatherization programs; and $29.6 billion would be directed towards displaced workers. Finally, the legislation would establish a performance-based suspension on finalizing and enforcing Clean Air Act regulations on greenhouse gas emissions from stationary sources covered by the tax as well as establish a National Climate Commission to report to Congress every six years with recommendations for emissions reductions. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) is an original cosponsor. The Columbia University Center for Global Energy Policy has [analyzed](https://energypolicy.columbia.edu/research/report/emissions-energy-and-economic-implications-curbelo-carbon-tax-proposal) the MARKET CHOICE Act and has concluded that this legislation would reduce our emissions footprint while provide revenue to address our infrastructure investment deficit. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has [supported the carbon tax](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congressman-larson-introduces-the-america-wins-act/) as a tool to provide revenue to fix our infrastructure. ASCE’s government relations team will continue to monitor Congressman Curbelo’s efforts to reduce our carbon footprint and address our nation’s infrastructure investment challenges and will keep you apprised of the latest developments. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Congressman%20Curbelo%20Introduces%20Bill%20to%20Tax%20Carbon&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Energy, National Category, News, Ports, Roads, Transit **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, #HighwayTrustFund, Airports, bridges, energy, infrastructure, roads, tax, transit, water infrastructure --- ### [EPA Releases Report on Flint Water Crisis](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/epa-releases-report-on-flint-water-crisis/) **Published:** July 24, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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released a [report](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-07/documents/_epaoig_20180719-18-p-0221.pdf) on the management failures that led to the Flint, Michigan water crisis in 2014 and gave recommendations on how to prevent such crises from occurring in the future. The 74-page document, which follows a [preliminary October 2016 report](https://www.eenews.net/assets/2016/10/20/document_pm_01.pdf), found that both the EPA and the state of Michigan are at fault for the contamination crisis in which nearly 100,000 residents were exposed to unsafe levels of lead. The report details two consecutive missteps catapulted the problem; the first misstep was the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) not properly following two Lead and Copper Rule requirements, and the second happened when EPA Region 5 failed to implement “management controls” for better decision-making. “While Flint residents were being exposed to lead in drinking water, the federal response was delayed, in part, because the EPA did not establish clear roles and responsibilities, risk assessment procedures, effective communication and proactive oversights tools,” the report states. The report offers nine recommendations: 1. Establish controls to annually verify that states are monitoring compliance with all Lead and Copper Rule requirements, including accurately identifying tier 1 sampling sites and maintaining continuous corrosion control treatment. 2. Revise the Lead and Copper Rule to improve the effect. 3. Publicly document clear expectations, roles and responsibilities between the EPA and the state of Michigan in an official document, such as a memorandum of understanding or a supplemental primacy document. 4. Implement a system for regional drinking water staff, managers and senior leaders, which incentivizes staff elevating and managers addressing important and emerging issues in accordance with the EPA’s “Policy on Elevation of Critical Environmental and Public Health Issues.” 5. Provide the public with all results from EPA reviews of Michigan’s Safe Drinking Water Act program, and track the progress of identified corrective actions. 6. Provide regular training for EPA drinking water staff, managers and senior leaders on Safe Drinking Water Act tools and authorities; state and agency roles and responsibilities; and any Safe Drinking Water Act amendments or Lead and Copper Rule revisions. 7. Implement a system to identify management risks in state drinking water programs, including elements such as atypical events, emerging public health concerns, environmental justice concerns and public health analyses. 8. Create a system that tracks citizen complaints and gathers information on emerging issues. The system should assess the risk associated with the complaints, including efficient and effective resolution. 9. Improve oversight by establishing a clear and credible escalation policy for EPA intervention in states. Eight of the nine recommendations have been resolved, and the EPA stated that in response to the one unresolved recommendation – to establish controls to annually verify that states are monitoring compliance – the agency intends to develop a pilot program with states to launch a national monitoring program for lead standards. There is currently pressure on the Trump Administration to rewrite the Lead and Copper Rule, an action which former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt championed but repeatedly delayed. *[ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* gave our nation’s [drinking water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) a grade of “D.” According to the [American Water Works Association](https://www.awwa.org/Portals/0/files/legreg/documents/BuriedNoLonger.pdf), $1 trillion will be needed to maintain and expand drinking water service demands during the next 25 years. ASCE has several policy statements ([PS 361](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-361---implementation-of-safe-drinking-water-regulations/) and [PS 462](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-462---disinfection-of-drinking-water/)) that recommend increased funding for and revisions to the Safe Drinking Water Act in order to adequately protect the public. 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(R-PA) released his long-awaited [infrastructure discussion draft](https://transportation.house.gov/building21/). Key components of the plan include fixing the Highway Trust Fund (HTF), investing in transportation and water resources infrastructure, financing innovative projects, and accelerating project delivery. The plan also calls for an increase of 15 cents per gallon of gasoline and 20 cents per gallon of diesel to the existing federal gas tax while extending HTF expenditure authority to September 30, 2021. Additional HTF revenue is collected through an added tax to electric vehicle batteries and bicycle tires as well as an application of a 4.3 cents per gallon tax on diesel used by passenger trains and eliminating the reduced rate for intercity and local public transportation buses. However, the draft proposes ending the gas tax as a revenue raised in 2028, as a means to encourage Congress to identify and pass another funding solution by then. While providing an incentive to implement an alternative, this is also a risk if there is not a bill passed with a new funding mechanism. The proposal aims to address long-term HTF solvency by establishing a HTF Commission, which will submit a report to Congress that includes new recommendations to achieve solvency, which cannot include a motor fuels tax increase. This proposal will include a provision allowing for expedited consideration of the legislation by Congress. a per-mile user fee surface transportation system funding pilot Other transportation investment recommendations include awarding 30 percent of BUILD (formally known as TIGER) grants to projects in rural areas and expand program access; extending FAST Act authorization through fiscal year (FY) 2021 and repealing rescissions included in that law. Water infrastructure investments include a reauthorization of the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation (WIFIA) program, including allowing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to service loans for the USACE’s WIFIA program. The proposal also includes a five year, $3 billion annual authorization for the Clean Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs), which help finance wastewater treatment projects. Additionally, the plan includes a new budgetary mechanism to allow all revenues from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to be spent on port dredging projects, a provision which ASCE has long supported. Financing opportunities are expanded by authorizing funds for FY 2019-21 for the loan guarantees for the Railroad Rehabilitation and Improvement Financing (RRIF) program. Lastly, the proposal seeks to accelerate project delivery through a “one federal decision” model through the National Surface Transportation and Innovative Finance Bureau and establishing a pilot program to review the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process to find ways to accelerate project delivery. Kristina Swallow, P.E., President, American Society of Civil Engineers, made an official statement after the release of the discussion draft: “Engineers, along with business and labor, have been urging Congress to develop a broader bill to address the nation’s infrastructure needs for years. We are pleased that Chairman Shuster has answered that call with a draft that includes funding to modernize our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems. “We encourage Members of Congress to build upon this plan and commit to making this their top priority. The draft proposes a gas tax increase tied to inflation to better fund the surface transportation network. This is the best and most efficient option to ensure the Highway Trust Fund has long-term, sustainable funding, and ASCE urges Congress to include this funding in the final bill. We haven’t seen an increase in the gas tax since 1993, and inflation has cut its purchasing power by 40%. “Historically this has been a bipartisan issue, and it can again be a place for Democrats and Republicans to work together to do what is best for the American people. Each day we delay, every American household loses $9 due to inefficient infrastructure. This has gone on long enough. It’s time to address these challenges, increase investment, and modernize infrastructure.” Congress has a busy agenda, including a few specific infrastructure bills in the works, heading into the election. It is anticipated that the earliest this draft legislation will be considering is after the November election during the lame duck session. Stay tuned for how the conversation progresses, including when Congress should hear from you about passing a bill! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Chairman%20Shuster%20Releases%20Infrastructure%20Proposal&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Drinking Water, News, Ports, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** congress, gas tax, highway trust fund --- ### [ASCE Participates in NCSL Legislative Summit in Los Angeles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-participates-in-ncsl-legislative-summit-in-los-angeles/) **Published:** August 3, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20NCSL%20Legislative%20Summit%20in%20Los%20Angeles&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE participated this week in the [National Conference of State Legislatures](http://www.ncsl.org/meetings-training/legislative-summit-17.aspx?elqTrackId=3332BF3F593990188C0B68656ABCDB33&elqTrack=true) (NCSL) annual Legislative Summit. Approximately 5,500 state legislators, legislative staff, decision-makers, and others attended the meeting to hear from experts and fellow legislators about policy challenges we face today and solutions to these challenges. ASCE exhibited at the 2018 Legislative Summit, and several volunteers from ASCE’s Region 9 joined to staff our booth and speak with lawmakers about the need to increase investment in infrastructure. Thank you to the Region 9 Members who volunteered: - Ken Rosenfield, P.E., F.ASCE - Liz Ruedas, P.E., M.ASCE - Dana Robertson, P.E., M.ASCE ![Woman and man standing at an ASCE Infrastructure Report Card booth with a large blue banner showing a colorful map of infrastructure icons and the words 'Infrastructure Report Card'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/IMG_3714-400x300.jpg "IMG_3714") “NCSL is an effective way to meet state legislators and share ASCE priorities,” said Ken, ASCE Region 9 Vice-Chair and Governor At-Large. “I spoke with elected officials from several states at the ASCE booth, sharing with them our Infrastructure Report Cards and recommendations to raise the grades. Importantly, I also heard from lawmakers about what matters to their constituents and discussed how ASCE can help them advance infrastructure investment and prioritization in their home states.” Attendees participated an array of policy-producing committee meetings, issue forums and deep-dive sessions. The Summit featured several infrastructure themed sessions: - ASCE participated in a half day energy summit that explored the major technological trends transforming the electricity and transportation sector. Sessions focused on transportation fuels of the future, smart communities, and debated the effectiveness of policies pushing for electrification of appliances and lower energy bills. - “Natural Disasters: How Data Helps Build Resilience” provided a deep dive into the how states were tracking disaster spending and overviewed new tools that better foster collaboration and mitigate risks. - “The Intersection of Antitrust Laws and Occupational Licensing” explored the impacts of a 2015 Supreme Court ruling which said states must actively supervise occupational licensing boards to protect from antitrust liability. - “Trends in Transportation Funding,” provided state lawmakers with a primer on how states are approaching alternative source of revenue to replace or supplement the motor fuel tax. One takeaway from this session was clear: States that have piloted a pay-per-mile road charge pilot program are grappling with higher administrative costs than seen under the traditional “pay at the pump” model. How to cost-effectively collect revenue from pay-per-mile drivers remains to be seen. Next year’s Summit will take place in August in Nashville, Tennessee. 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“minibus” spending package by a vote of [92-6](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00180). This legislation combined the following appropriations bill: Interior & Environment (S. 3073); Financial Services (S. 3107); Transportation, Housing & Urban Development (THUD)(S. 3023); and Agriculture & Federal Drug Administration (S. 2976). The House passed a smaller version of this minibus – including just the Interior & Environment and Financial Services appropriations bills – last month. This included the Financial Services and Interior-Environment titles already passed in the U.S. House of Representatives ([H.R. 6147](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6147)) as well as the Senate Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) ([S.3023](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3023)) and Agriculture ([S.2976](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/2976)) titles. FY19 spending under the Senate THUD title totals to $71.4 billion, $1.1 billion above FY18 enacted level, and includes $26.6 billion for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), $800 million below FY18 enacted level, in discretionary funding. $45.3 billion from the Highway Trust Fund will go towards Federal-aid Highways Program, and $3.3 billion from the general fund will be directed towards highways, which has remained constant with FY18 enacted spending. The legislation provides $1 billion to BUILD (formerly TIGER) grants ,which is $500 million below FY18 enacted level; $750 million in supplemental funding to the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) or $250 million below FY18 enacted level; and $2.55 billion in Capital Investment Grants (CIG), which is $50 million less than FY18 enacted level. It is expected that the House will take up its THUD appropriations title when they return from the August recess. The Senate’s FY19 Interior & Environment $35.8 billion appropriations bill is equal to the FY18 enacted level, an increase of $600 million compared to the House version, and contains $8 billion for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is on par with the FY18 enacted level. The bill includes $63 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA), while the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (SRF) programs receive $2.86 billion, both of which are nearly equal to the FY18 enacted level. The first FY19 appropriations “[minibus](http://thehill.com/homenews/senate/394054-senate-passes-first-2019-funding-bill)” to pass both chamber of Congress (Energy & Water Development; Legislative Branch; and Military Construction & Veterans Affairs appropriations bills) now awaits action by a congressional conference committee to hash out the differences between the bills. Last week, ASCE sent a [letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/ASCE-Energy-Water-Development-FY19-Minibus_Letter-to-Conference-Committee_7.17.18_FINAL.pdf) to the conference committee outlining our infrastructure funding priorities. The conference committee announced that they are delaying their initial meeting until the House returns from recess in September; once they are back in session, the House will have just 11 legislative days to pass and conference all 12 appropriations bills before the government runs out of funding on September 30. As infrastructure spending bills continues to move through Congress, ASCE’s government relations team will stay actively engaged and keep you apprised of the latest developments. 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by email")On Wednesday, the Texas Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers released a new report and recommendations, *[Addressing Flood Risk: A Path Forward for Texas After Hurricane Harvey](http://www.TexASCE.org/FloodRisk).* This document expands on the findings of the *[2017 Report Card for Texas’ Infrastructure](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/texas)*, which graded flood infrastructure at a “D,” by exploring the existing landscape of flood risk management in the state and identifying measures that can be taken to better prepare the state for the next event. It comes a few days ahead of the one year anniversary of Hurricane Harvey devastating the southeastern region of the state. Today’s report makes a series of recommendations for a path forward for Texas to local, state, and federal decision-makers to use in improving inland flood risk management. These recommendations include a directive to the Texas Water Development Board to develop a statewide flood mitigation plan, drawing on input from all levels of government, citizens and the private sector. Additionally, the report requests additional funding for Texas’ Dam Safety Program as well as funding for a program that that assists owners with dam repair, abandonment, or removal. The report recommends the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality should develop and implement a program for inventory Texas’ levees, better educate citizens about flood risks, and employ alternative flood mitigation strategies. These include investments in green stormwater infrastructure, also known as low-impact development, and researching technologies such as green roofs, small-scale sedimentation and filtration ponds, permeable pavements, and rain gardens. *Addressing Flood Risks* emphasizes that communities must take a watershed approach to flood risk management. Communities within each Texas watershed, the report notes, do not currently coordinate flood risk management regulations and infrastructure plans. As a result, upstream activities can frequently impact downstream property owners and localities. Better coordination during the planning and implementation of flood risk reduction programs and projects will help reduce flood risks for everyone within a watershed, not just those living in one community. The Report and associated recommendations was compiled by the Texas ASCE Section Task Committee on Post-Hurricane Harvey Recommendations. The Committee was formed by members of the ASCE Houston and Southeast Texas Branches. The recommendations were released at a luncheon at the Hess Club in Houston. The Texas Section looks forward to working with lawmakers at every level of government, as well as decision-makers and private citizens, to better address flood risk in the future. This advocacy starts with the ballot box; on August 25, Harris County residents can vote yes on Prop A, to authorize $2.5 billion in bonds for flood mitigation projects over the next 15 years. To read the full report, visit [www.TexASCE.org/FloodRisk](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/dIJLCJ67ZruZlGliGHCu2?domain=texasce.org). 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to start charging, and when we flip a light switch we expect the lights to go on. Most of the time, these systems work just fine, but this week, travelers at Washington’s Reagan National Airport sat for 90 minutes with no power, while others sat on planes waiting for [power to be restored to utilize the jetbridges](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/public-safety/power-outage-reported-at-reagan-national-airport/2018/08/15/f250b4d4-a0f8-11e8-93e3-24d1703d2a7a_story.html?utm_term=.aa90a7a8fb7e). The power outage caused some diverted flights and delays, and many computer systems were down though backup generators provided crucial service. Baggage carousels were left at a stand still as airport crew members handed out bags and passengers searched for luggage using phones as flashlights. The outage was caused by an issue[ with the service provider](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/officials-still-dont-know-what-caused-an-airport-wide-power-outage-at-reagan-national/2018/08/16/4ad97546-a162-11e8-93e3-24d1703d2a7a_story.html?utm_term=.d16d59474a8f), who is now investigating the exact cause believed to be related to equipment failure. Luckily, some emergency backup lighting systems were activated, so travelers were not left in the pitch black. **When Emergency Systems Fail** During the 2017 holiday season, an 11-hour power outage hit Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport – a disruption that caused 1,180 flight cancellations during the busiest travel time of the year. A fire damaged both the electrical systems and back-up equipment, causing a blackout. The incidents demonstrate the cascading effect of an infrastructure failure. Our system is only as strong as the weakest link. **Our Energy Infrastructure** Whether you’re searching for luggage in the dark or in need of an outlet to charge your phone, we all rely on electricity and we can all agree that power outages and interruptions are major inconveniences to our daily lives. A majority of our electric transmission and distribution lines were constructed in the 1950s and 1960s with a 50-year life expectancy, meaning we are currently relying on systems that are functioning 10 to 20 years past their expected life. It’s easy to see why our energy systems are receiving a “D+” grade. Without the proper investment, we will continue to experience longer and more frequent outages at the airport and at home, which bring inconvenience and ripple through the economy. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Power%20Outage%20Complicates%20Summer%20Air%20Travel%20at%20Reagan%20Airport&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, District of Columbia, Energy, Georgia, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** Airports, Atlanta, DC, energy, Reagan --- ### [Harris County Voters Approve $2.5 Billion Flood Infrastructure Bond 1 Year After Hurricane Harvey](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/harris-county-voters-approve-2-5-billion-flood-infrastructure-bond-1-year-after-hurricane-harvey/) **Published:** August 27, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Harris%20County%20Voters%20Approve%20%242.5%20Billion%20Flood%20Infrastructure%20Bond%201%20Year%20After%20Hurricane%20Harvey&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Saturday, August 25th, exactly one year after Hurricane Harvey made landfall, Harris County voters overwhelmingly approved a $2.5 billion infrastructure bond (Proposition A), which aims to protect Houston from future storms and flooding. Proposition A passed with over 85% voter approval. Approval of this measure means that taxpayers in Harris County will see a gradual increase of their property taxes over the next 15 years. It is estimated that an overall tax increase will be no more than 2 to 3 cents per $100 of assessed property value, or roughly a 1.4% increase. Thanks to the investments made possible through Proposition A, residents of Harris County will benefit from flood mitigation projects that may include buyouts of homes in flood-prone areas, the construction of additional stormwater detention basins, and the expansion of local bayous, among others. The passage of this measure was also critical to allowing Harris County access to more than $2 billion in matching federal dollars for similar projects. The passage of Proposition A brings necessary funds to addressing the flood problems in Houston. To learn more, visit the [interactive map](http://www.harriscountyfemt.org/cb) created by the Harris County Flood District, which identifies [150 projects](http://www.harriscountyfemt.org/cb) that will benefit from the additional funding that Proposition A will generate. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Harris%20County%20Voters%20Approve%20%242.5%20Billion%20Flood%20Infrastructure%20Bond%201%20Year%20After%20Hurricane%20Harvey&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Texas **Tags:** flood control, flood protection, Hurricane Harvey, texas, vote --- ### [Study Shows Public Transit Investment Saves Lives](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/study-shows-public-transit-investment-saves-lives/) **Published:** August 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Zero Network released newly analyzed data detailing how more frequent public transit use is linked to fewer traffic fatalities. The findings are based on recent Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data. Specifically, NHTSA reported there were a total 37,461 deaths due to automobile traffic crashes in 2016, a 5.6% increase over the previous year that costs our nation $871 billion per year. These staggering statistics indicate that more needs to be done to reach the goal of Vision Zero, which states that traffic fatalities can be prevented, are unacceptable, and even one traffic-related death is too many. As civil engineers dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) [supports the goals of Vision Zero](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-552---vision-zero/). *[Public Transit is a Key Strategy in Advancing Vision Zero and Eliminating Traffic fatalities](https://www.apta.com/resources/hottopics/Documents/APTA%20VZN%20Transit%20Safety%20Brief%208.2018.pdf)* finds metro areas with strong public transportation networks have lower traffic fatality rates and investment in public transit systems would save lives. The study illustrates that metro areas with over 40 annual transit trips per capita have about half the traffic fatality rate of metro areas with fewer than 20 transit trips per capita. APTA’s report further highlights that robust transit systems develop life-saving benefits because there is a greater mode shift from auto driving to travel on public transit, which provides an alternative for high-risk and vulnerable road users as well as compact development that provides safer traffic speeds. *Public Transit is a Key Strategy in Advancing Vision Zero and Eliminating Traffic fatalities* is based on the methods used in the APTA research publication *[The Hidden Traffic Safety Solution: Public Transportation](https://www.apta.com/resources/hottopics/Pages/safe-mode.aspx)*. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Study%20Shows%20Public%20Transit%20Investment%20Saves%20Lives&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Transit **Tags:** public transit, road safety, safety, transit, USDOT, vision zero --- ### [Mississippi Special Legislative Session Addresses Funding Need for Bridges and Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/mississippi-special-legislative-session-addresses-funding-need-for-bridges-and-roads/) **Published:** August 30, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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email")Earlier this year, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) had to close nearly 500 bridges to ensure the safety of the traveling public and another 1,742 were posted with specific weight limits due to structural deficiency. In addition, 28% of Mississippi’s roads are in poor condition, 12.30% of bridges are structurally deficient, and the condition of the roads costs motorists $705 per year from driving on roads in need of repair. To address these issues, which were a result of inadequate funding, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant called for a special legislative session late last week, four months after the regular session adjourned. Out of this special session came the *Mississippi Infrastructure Modernization Act*. This bipartisan solution passed with a vote of 108-5 and was signed by Governor Bryant. The bill is funded through a combination of a 7% internet sales tax collection, sports betting revenue, bonds, and adding a fee on hybrid and electric vehicles. The newly generated revenue will be allocated as follows: - 35% of the internet and out-of-state sales taxes will be directed to local governments. The tax will be divided among localities – 15% to cities – 15% to counties – and 5% will be allocated to the Local System Bridge Program. Counties will be required to match the state money dollar for dollar. - Of the $300 million funding infusion, $250 million will be directed to the Mississippi Department of Transportation for emergency projects and $50 million to be spent on transportation projects deemed necessary by the legislature. - The first $80 million of newly collected state lottery revenue will be dedicated to the State Highway Fund for 10 years. The money is to be used with matching federal funds when available. While the bridge closures earlier this year were a catalysts, the need to increase investment in Mississippi infrastructure has long been advocated for by ASCE, including through a 2012 Mississippi Infrastructure Report Card, which gave the state an overall grade of ‘C-,’ and the Mississippi Economic Council, which [named infrastructure development](http://www.msmec.com/images/blueprint/pdf/BPMS.FINALFORPOSTING.UPDATED.2.1.12.pdf) one of the nine priority goals for economic growth in the state. By passing this legislation, the Mississippi legislature made infrastructure improvements in their state a priority and put the state on a better path for the future. [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Mississippi%20Special%20Legislative%20Session%20Addresses%20Funding%20Need%20for%20Bridges%20and%20Roads&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Mississippi%20Special%20Legislative%20Session%20Addresses%20Funding%20Need%20for%20Bridges%20and%20Roads "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Mississippi%20Special%20Legislative%20Session%20Addresses%20Funding%20Need%20for%20Bridges%20and%20Roads&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Mississippi, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Uncategorized **Tags:** bridge, bridges, MDOT, Mississippi, roads --- ### [California Report Plots Path for Climate-Safe Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/california-report-plots-path-for-climate-safe-infrastructure/) **Published:** September 6, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure in California*,](http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/ab2800/AB2800_Final_NoAppendices.pdf) released on Wednesday, offers comprehensive recommendations on how the state can move forward to ready its infrastructure for a changing climate. California is a leader in this area, understandably so given the droughts, wildfires, and mudslides the state endures. The report is a direct result of [AB 2800 Climate-Safe Infrastructure Bill,](https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billNavClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160AB2800) a law passed in 2016 requiring the Natural Resources Agency “to update the state’s climate adaptation strategy to identify vulnerabilities to climate change by sectors and priority actions needed to reduce the risks in those sectors.” The bill created the [Climate-Safe Infrastructure Working Group](http://resources.ca.gov/climate/climate-safe-infrastructure-working-group/) (CSIWG), with the charge to offer recommendations to the legislature on how to better prepare infrastructure for greater climate extremes. The report explores how California’s infrastructure is already in a compromised position because it requires more maintenance than available funding allows. In the chapter dedicated to exploring the current state of California’s infrastructure the authors conclude “California stands at a critical juncture: to either risk the very foundation of its economy and its communities’ safety and well-being or to make the necessary sustained investment in its infrastructure as if California’s future depended on it. It does.” It then calls upon California’s lawmakers to “strengthen adaptation as a political priority,” and outlines steps to do so [through 10 recommendations](http://resources.ca.gov/docs/climate/ab2800/AB2800_Chapter10_FINAL.pdf), along with steps to implement each of them. Among the recommendations: - **The State Legislature should provide a permanent source of funding for the State’s mandated Climate Change Assessment process**, the State’s ongoing Climate Change Research Program as well as decision-support tools and other assistance that disseminate their findings, so as to meet needs for improved understanding and forward-looking science information. - **The State budget should provide full funding to State infrastructure agencies** so they can dedicate time and support to their engineers and architects to substantively and collaboratively interact with climate scientists and other relevant experts in the creation of useful advice, guidance and tools on a regular and ongoing basis, in a way and at a level appropriate to their needs. - **The true costs over the full life-cycle of infrastructure projects should be assessed** broadly, and the State should make efforts to help policymakers and the public better understand the necessity of bearing these costs. The title of “Paying it Forward” is the overarching call to action of the recommendations. CSIWG concludes that by making investments into more resilient infrastructure today, California’s future safety and prosperity will be ensured. This report is an example of the vision and leadership ASCE encourages in [Public Policy Statement 360 –Impact of Climate Change](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-360---impact-of-climate-change/), which recommends “government policies that encourage anticipation of and preparation for impacts of climate change on the built environment” because civil engineers are the stewards of infrastructure that will be “exposed to and often are vulnerable to the effects of extreme climate and weather events.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure **Tags:** California, climate change --- ### [ASCE Participates in Resilience Event](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-participates-in-resilience-event/) **Published:** September 7, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")ASCE, along with other advocacy groups, policymakers, and business leaders, participated in an event entitled “[Partnerships & Progress: Driving Climate Solutions](http://thehill.com/event/402180-partnerships-progress-driving-climate-solutions)” held by [The Hill](http://thehill.com/video/events) and the [Bipartisan Policy Center](https://bipartisanpolicy.org/) to discuss bipartisan congressional initiatives on clean energy, resilience, and disaster preparedness. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) kicked of the event with conversations about what each is doing on climate solution legislation. [ASCE recently endorsed](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/ASCE_IMAGINE-Act_Senate_Letter-of-Support_8.16.18.pdf) Sen. Whitehouse’s Innovative Materials for America’s Growth & Infrastructure Newly Expanded (IMAGINE) Act ([S. 3341),](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3341) a bill that encourages the research and use of innovative construction materials and techniques in transportation and water infrastructure projects across the nation. This bill creates an interagency Innovative Materials Task Force to assess existing standards for innovative materials, develop new methods, and identify barriers to broader market adoption and dedicates much-needed research funding to help state agencies further develop innovative materials and prioritize resilient infrastructure in rural and coastal areas. ASCE endorsed the IMAGINE Act because we believe the utilization of new approaches, materials, and technologies is key to ensuring our nation’s infrastructure is both more resilient and sustainable. ASCE’s Managing Director of Government Relations & Infrastructure Initiatives, Brian Pallasch, while participating on a panel, spoke about how a critical component of raising our nation’s infrastructure grade is careful preparation for the needs of the future and that one of the eight key criteria used for assessment in *[ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* is our infrastructure’s [resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/preparing-for-the-future/), or the ability to more quickly recover from significant weather and other hazard events. To shore up our nation’s infrastructure resilience, we must establish a common definition and consistent means of assessing risk. Considering the increasing frequency and intensity of natural disasters, our nation’s reliance on technology, and risks posed by non-natural disasters such as cyberattacks, building more resilient critical infrastructure systems is more important now than ever before. One way to address this issue is to invest in risk reduction mechanisms at the federal, state, and local levels, including pre-disaster mitigation measures and in updating our nation’s flood maps. In fact, a January 2018 National Institute of Building Sciences [report](https://www.nibs.org/news/381874/National-Institute-of-Building-Sciences-Issues-New-Report-on-the-Value-of-Mitigation.htm) found that every $1 in federal government agency hazard mitigation spending saves the nation $6 in future disaster costs. Fortunately, both the [House](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=395381) and the [Senate](https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/senate-committee-advances-fy2019-homeland-security-appropriations-bill) Appropriations Committees included $250 million for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) [Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Grant Program](https://www.fema.gov/pre-disaster-mitigation-grant-program) in their FY19 appropriations bill, which is on par with the FY18 enacted level, and the House included $262.5 million for FEMA’s flood mapping and risk analysis program, which is also on par with the FY18 enacted level. As advocates for [policies](http://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-545--flood-risk-management/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) that reduce risk, protect the health of the public, and maximize the public interest – including cost considerations and resilient designs – ASCE has been supportive of efforts that achieve this goal, specifically the Obama-era Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) that was rescinded by President Trump through an [Executive Order (EO)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-release-executive-order-on-infrastructure/) on August 15, 2017. As part of a larger coalition led by Pew, ASCE has been urging [Congres](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B97f60c91-7fcd-4e09-b764-bd58a0f9b3f8%7D_Support_letter_to_Congressional_leadership_for_stronger_flood-ready_measures_1.9.18.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua)s and the [Trump Administration](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B77ce0749-bbc9-442f-b3f1-da57a5158830%7D_22stakeholder_FFRMS_letter_to_WH_6.19.17.pdf?utm_campaign=GR-2018-02-09-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) to develop new flood risk management standards that would require any new federally funded infrastructure projects in a floodplain to consider and mitigate for flood disaster risk. Earlier this year ASCE endorsed [S. 1507](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1507/cosponsors), the State Flood Mitigation Revolving Fund Act, which was introduced by Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), John Kennedy (R-LA), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). Based on the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, this bill would create a new state revolving fund to provide low-interest loans to states for flood mitigation projects such as elevations and flood proofing of public buildings, businesses, and residences; improvements to stormwater management; assistance to local residents who wish to move out of harm’s way; or converting frequently flooded areas into open space amenities. For a further look at ASCE’s solutions to raise our nation’s infrastructure page, please see our full *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/)* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Participates%20in%20Resilience%20Event&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** innovation, resilience --- ### [WRDA Passes in the House](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-passes-in-the-house/) **Published:** September 14, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The passage of this bill authorizes key programs and projects that are critical to improving our nation’s water-related infrastructure categories. The *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* graded each of these categories; [ports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) received a grade of “C+,” while [dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/), [levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/), and [drinking water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) were graded at a “D,” and [wastewater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) received a “D+.” This version of WRDA was agreed upon after negotiations between the House and Senate which ended in a conference agreement, or compromise legislation. The bill contains many of the provisions that ASCE has championed, including reauthorization of the [National Levee Safety Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/NLSI-Reauthorization-WRDA-2018-Request_4.9.18.pdf) and the [National Dam Safety Program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Rep.-Maloney-National-Dam-Safety-Program-Reauthorization-WRDA-2018-Request_5.4.18.pdf), two programs designed to prevent dam failure and improve levee safety. In addition, the bill includes the reauthorization of the EPA’s successful Water Infrastructure Financing and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and the [Securing Required Funds for Water Infrastructure Now](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/WIN-Coalition_Senate-Support-Letter-Americas-Water-Infrastructure-Act_7.12.18.pdf) (SRF WIN) Act, establishing a new financing vehicle for critical drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects to help restore our nation’s water infrastructure. Finally, the bill includes a reauthorization of the Safe Drinking Water SRF reauthorization – for three-years at increasing funding levels, eventually rising to $1.95 billion in FY2021 ASCE is expecting the Senate to take up the legislation before the end of September. Please contact your Representatives to thank them for the passage of WRDA and urge your Senators to vote YES on WRDA by visiting our [“Click & Connect”](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=472413) page. Passing the biennial WRDA bill is an ongoing a priority for ASCE. ASCE’s Key Contacts have been regularly contacting Congress urging its passage since the March 2018 Fly-In, where advocates met with over 270 congressional offices on this issue. We thank our Key Contacts for their hard work and support throughout the legislative process. Read [ASCE’s official statement](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=28275) on the House’s passage of WRDA. 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Infrastructure at a ‘C’ in 2018 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kern-county-infrastructure-at-a-c-in-2018-report-card/) **Published:** September 19, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Kern%20County%20Infrastructure%20at%20a%20%E2%80%98C%E2%80%99%20in%202018%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On September 18, the Southern San Joaquin Branch of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the 2018 Report Card for Kern County’s Infrastructure. Nine categories of infrastructure earned an overall grade of ‘C.’ Bridges received the highest grade of ‘B+,” a significant improvement over the ‘B-’ in the 2012 Kern County Report Card. Transit and parks received the lowest grades of ‘D+.’ Other categories included aviation, drinking water, parks, rail, roads, solid waste, transit and wastewater. Overall, the report found that major investments over the past 10 years have improved Kern County’s transportation network and have increased capacity and improved levels of service. Specifically, the Thomas Roads Improvement Program and the Caltrans State Route widening project have increased capacity on roads and reduced the number of structurally deficient bridges in the region. However, sustainable funding is needed to maintain these upgraded assets. Additionally, the Report Card finds that transit and parks infrastructure have been shortchanged by recent budget cycles and must be prioritized going forward. In both cases, as existing revenue sources have remained constant or declined, costs have continued to rise. For example, full-time park employees are now responsible for 12.6 acres; ten years ago, that employee was responsible for 9.2 acres of park upkeep. Meanwhile, Kern County’s Golden Empire Transit District & Kern Transit have invested in fleet upgrades over the last 10 years, but significant funding will be required in the coming years to accommodate potential growths in ridership and to meet anticipated state‐wide zero emission requirements. In addition to assessing the overall health of the infrastructure, the report offers five steps to take to improve the county’s grades. - First, the Report Card for Kern County’s Infrastructure encourages voters to vote [no on Proposition 6](https://noprop6.com/) in November 2018. A no vote will ensure SB 1 funding remains intact. - Second, the Report Card encourages enhanced public transit service and points out that increased use of transit reduces our traffic and keeps our air cleaner. - Third, the Southern San Joaquin Branch encourages lawmakers to provide consistent and reliable funding for parks and recreation agencies. - Additionally, engineers urge the construction of additional water storage reservoirs. - Finally, the Report card recommends increasing revenue for local airports. To read the full Report Card for Kern County’s Infrastructure, visit [infrastructurereportcard.org/kerncounty](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/kerncounty). 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parks are incredible economic drivers and therefore critical infrastructure systems. They create thousands of American jobs, generate billions of dollars in revenue, and sustain communities across the country. In fact, the National Park Service’s (NPS) 2016 centennial anniversary brought in a record-breaking [331 million visitors who spent an estimated $18.4 billion in local gateway regions.](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/socialscience/vse.htm) NPS’ 2016 visitor spending supported a total of 318,000 jobs and generated $34.9 billion for the U.S. economy. The outdoor recreation economy at-large is growing, too; the [Outdoor Industry Association’s 2017 National Recreation Economy Report](https://outdoorindustry.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/OIA_RecEconomy_FINAL_Single.pdf) found that outdoor recreation activities contribute a total of $887 billion annually to the economy and support 7.6 million American jobs. While the excitement around public parks is growing, our nation’s decades-long inadequate investment in public parks infrastructure has resulted in large backlogs of deferred maintenance, ultimately threatening the safety of these infrastructure systems and their surrounding communities’ economic stability while undercutting the ability of our nation to meet the demands of a growing population. The NPS now has a deferred maintenance backlog of nearly $12 billion, which includes $6 billion for roads, bridges, tunnels, and parking lots and $6 billion for non-transportation related projects such as eroding trails, visitor facilities, and water and electrical systems. The NPS manages more than 75,000 constructed assets, and over 41,000 of them – more than half – are in need of repair. ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave our nation’s [public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) a grade of “D+.” From supporting industries such as lodging and restaurants, to providing clean water to homes, to giving citizens the opportunity to partake in recreational activities, public parks – those operated at the federal, state, and local levels – play important roles in American life. Significant and strategic investments from all tiers of government and the private sector are long overdue to close the growing funding gap. Fortunately, [President Trump’s infrastructure proposal](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-releases-much-anticipated-infrastructure-plan/) included a provision to develop an “Interior Maintenance Fund” to help address the NPS’ deferred maintenance backlog. Congress sprang into action and introduced bipartisan, bicameral bills to accomplish this goal: [S. 3172, the Restore Our Parks Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3172?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22s.+3172%22%5D%7D&r=1) and [H.R. 6510, the Restore Our Parks & Public Lands Act](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6510). ASCE endorsed both bills and worked to garner additional co-sponsorship of them. Both pieces of legislation are nearly identical and direct 50% of unobligated federal energy development revenues from oil, gas, and renewable energy into a fund to be used to address the NPS’ deferred maintenance backlog. The fund would be capped at $1.3 billion per year over the course of five years. While 65% of these funds would be used for non-transportation projects, the remaining 35% would be used for transportation projects. The sole difference between S. 3172 and H.R. 6510 is that while the Senate bill would allocate 100% of the total funds to address the NPS deferred maintenance backlog, the House bill would allocate 20% of the total funds to address the deferred maintenance backlogs at three other federal agencies with jurisdiction over public lands, including the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ Bureau of Indian Education. The [House Natural Resources Committee](https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=405683) passed H.R. 6510 in September 2018, while the [Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings-and-business-meetings?ID=16EAE40F-796A-486F-847C-8DE35333AEE8) passed S. 3172 in October 2018; these bills now await votes on their respective full chamber floors. [Contact Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=394033) now asking them to support S. 3172/H.R. 6510 when they come to the floor for a vote! 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Supports%20National%20Park%20Service%20Deferred%20Maintenance%20Backlog%20Legislation&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** deferred maintenance, National Parks, public parks --- ### [The 2018 Report Card for California’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure Gives Roads a “D”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-2018-report-card-for-californias-surface-transportation-infrastructure-gives-roads-a-d/) **Published:** October 3, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%202018%20Report%20Card%20for%20California%E2%80%99s%20Surface%20Transportation%20Infrastructure%20Gives%20Roads%20a%20%E2%80%9CD%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")California may be a world-wide leader in technology, agricultural production and tourism, but the *Report Card for California’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure* leaves much to be desired. *On Wednesday,* the American Society of Civil Engineers California’s Region 9 members released the grades for the state’s surface transportation network. Roads earned a “D,” bridges a “C-,” and transit a “C-.” The grades were released at simultaneous events in Los Angeles and the Bay Area; the second and third most congested urban areas in the nation, respectively. The surface transportation subset of the *2019 Report Card for California’s Infrastructure* was released today, just over a month before Election Day, to make sure voters have access to ASCE’s nonpartisan, fact-based assessment of infrastructure when they go to the polls in November to vote on Proposition 6. Proposition 6 would repeal a bill passed by the California legislature in 2017 that increased available funding for the transportation network. Senate Bill 1, also known as the Road and Repair Accountability Act, reversed decades of underinvestment in California’s infrastructure by providing $5.4 billion in funding for roads, bridges, and transit. SB 1 is paid for by increasing vehicle registration fees, as well as gas and diesel taxes. A “No” vote will ensure that the new funding, which is already being spent on projects in every community in California, stays intact. The *2018 Report Card for California’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure* finds that 44% of California’s major roads in the state are in poor condition, while 37% are in mediocre or fair condition. In addition, California bridges account for 13 of the top 25 most traveled structurally deficient bridges in the United States. Notably, congestion in California costs drivers up to $1,774 each year in lost time and wasted fuel. In addition to urging a “[No” vote on Proposition 6](https://noprop6.com/), ASCE civil engineers made several other recommendations on how to raise the grades. California should continue to invest in the research and development of new technologies, improve the adaptability and resilience of the transportation network against manmade and natural disasters, and prioritize the freight network to get goods to markets in and beyond California. The Report Card is released as a public service to citizens and policymakers to inform them of the infrastructure needs in their community. *The 2019 Report Card for California’s Infrastructure*, grading 14 additional categories of infrastructure (17 overall), will be released in February. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/YwD1CPN51AcmB8Ztz0LUd?domain=icm-tracking.meltwater.com), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of “D+” in 2017. A full copy of *California’s Surface Transportation Report Card* is available at [InfrastructureReportCard.org/California. ](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/California) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Coalition](https://buildstrongamerica.com/) are pleased to acknowledge the October 3rd Senate passage of the bipartisan Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA as part of H.R. 302, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2018. The bill will now go to the president’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law. The provisions constituting the DRRA represent a significant improvement in U.S. disaster resilience policy, providing states with access to an enhanced, on-budget pre-disaster mitigation fund for activities that provide a measurable reduction of risk and focusing recovery funds toward resilient building code adoption and enforcement. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on September 26th. The DRRA places 6% of annual disaster spending into a new national Pre-Disaster Mitigation account, providing new resources for states and communities to invest in preventative measures. This fund would be able to provide as much as an estimated $1 billion in pre-disaster assistance depending on the level of disaster spending in a given year, and importantly ensures that PDM funds can be used towards building code development and enforcement. The bill also addresses specific issues related to the 2017 disasters and Hurricane Florence, including approximately $1.7 billion in aid to areas affected by Hurricane Florence. Parts of the DRRA passed as part of the 2018 omnibus spending package, signed by the president in March, which dedicates $249 million for the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program. The components of the DRRA included in H.R. 302 would increase the federal investment in pre-disaster mitigation, increase reimbursement caps for state and local governments on a range of disaster costs, and allow state and local governments to administer housing assistance grants. Specifically, the legislation: - Amends the [Stafford Act](https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1519395888776-af5f95a1a9237302af7e3fd5b0d07d71/StaffordAct.pdf) to establish increased and fixed reimbursement rates to state and local governments for direct and indirect administrative costs associated with disaster recovery efforts. This includes no more than 15 percent for hazard mitigation and 12 percent for essential assistance; repair, restoration, and replacement; debris removal; and transportation assistance. - Allows states the option to administer FEMA funding for direct temporary housing and permanent housing construction in the wake of a disaster. FEMA must fund 100 percent of the direct temporary housing costs. - Establishes the National Public Infrastructure Pre-Disaster Mitigation Assistance Program, which would commit certain funding from the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) to pre-disaster mitigation efforts. It would allocate 6percent of the combined obligations estimated following a major disaster (unemployment assistance, assistance to low-income migrant and seasonal farmworkers and crisis counseling assistance and training) to mitigation assistance. - Requires the FEMA administrator to develop a plan to streamline information collection processes for grant applications and make the process less burdensome and time consuming. - Directs FEMA to increase consideration of severe local impact when evaluating whether to recommend a major disaster declaration. - Allows the FEMA administrator to develop incentives and penalties to encourage state and local governments to expedite the timely closeout of recovery-related expenditures and activities. The House passed several emergency management amendments to the bill throughout floor proceedings. In part, these amendments would: - Create an interagency council to improve coordination on the federal, state and local levels on extreme weather, resilience, preparedness and risk identification. - Improve FFEMA’s reimbursement amounts and processes for state and local governments in the areas of housing assistance, building inspections and in cases of delayed recoupment. - Require FEMA to coordinate emergency response plans with state, tribal and local governments. - Require FEMA to provide training to state, local, and tribal governments, first responders, and facilities that store hazardous materials in the event of major disaster. ASCE joined with the BuildStrong Coalition in 2012 and has been working on a series of bills to improve the nation’s preparedness and response to disasters. The Coalition brings together firefighters, emergency responders, insurers, engineers, architects, contractors and manufacturers, as well as consumer organizations, code specialists and others. 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Administration (FAA) will now have long -term stability. Congress has approved a five-year, $96.7 billion [FAA reauthorization bill (HR 302)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/302?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22hr+302%22%5D%7D&r=1), with the House approving the legislation in September by a vote of [398-23](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2018/roll407.xml?utm_campaign=GR-2018-09-28-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and the Senate passing the measure by a vote of [93-6](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=115&session=2&vote=00220). This legislation represents the longest reauthorization of the FAA since 1982. HR 302 now heads to President Trump to be signed into law this afternoon. The key wins that ASCE’s government relations staff and members included in the final legislation were: - The Westerman-Lipinski Qualifications-Based Selection (QBS) Amendment which expands the QBS process to cover any airport project that uses federal Airport Improvement Program (AIP) funds at any stage. - Existing QBS requirements and state licensing laws under the Geospatial Data title of the bill are not weakened and remain constant. - An airport infrastructure study requirement. The legislation maintains the current Airport Improvement Program (AIP) authorization level at $3.35 billion. AIP’s authorization level will remain unchanged for 12 years (FY2012-2023) and this is a decrease from the FY2011 level of $3.5 billion. The Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) cap remains unchanged at $4.50, the cap has been in place since 2000. We continue to encourage Congress to increase funding for AIP to $4.35 billion and raise the cap on the PFC to $8.50 in order to modernize our aviation system for the 21st century. 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"Share by email")An earlier [blog post ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-national-park-service-deferred-maintenance-backlog-legislation/)this week featured ASCE’s support for legislation to invest in our nation’s public parks by addressing our National Park Service’s deferred maintenance backlog. The [Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)](https://www.doi.gov/lwcf/about/overview) is a critically important program that helps fund public parks infrastructure. Unfortunately, its authorization expired on September 30, and congressional action is necessary to reauthorize it. Established in 1964, the LWCF uses revenues generated from offshore oil and gas leases to conserve national parks, areas around rivers and lakes, national forests, and national wildlife refuges, and to provide matching grants for state and local parks and recreation projects. Over its more than 50-year history, the LWCF has supported over 41,000 state and local park projects with $4.1 billion, which has been matched for a total of $8.2 billion. Although the program is authorized for $900 million per year, it routinely receives only half of that during the appropriations process. A recent poll found that an overwhelming majority – 82% – of voters supporting the LWCF. Despite its bipartisan support, there is disagreement in Congress over its length of reauthorization, whether reforms to the program are needed, and if the program should receive mandatory funding. ASCE has been a longtime proponent of the LWCF; our [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) recommends fully funding the program as way to help raise the[ public parks ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/)grade up from a “D+.” ASCE recently submitted a [Statement for the Record](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/ASCE-Statement-for-the-Record_ENR-LWCF_10.2.18.pdf) to the Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee markup in support of reauthorizing and fully funding the LWCF. Last month, the [House Natural Resources Committee](https://naturalresources.house.gov/calendar/eventsingle.aspx?EventID=405714) passed a bill, [H.R. 502](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/502?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22hr+502%22%5D%7D&r=1), to permanently reauthorize the LWCF. Earlier this week, the [Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings-and-business-meetings?ID=16EAE40F-796A-486F-847C-8DE35333AEE8) passed a bill,[ S. 569,](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/569?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22s.+569%22%5D%7D&r=1) to both permanently reauthorize the LWCF and to remove it from the annual congressional appropriations cycle, ultimately providing mandatory funding for the program. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Supports%20Reauthorization%20and%20Full%20Funding%20of%20the%20Land%20%26%20Water%20Conservation%20Fund&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News **Tags:** LWCF, National Parks, public parks --- ### [Vote for Infrastructure on November 6th!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vote-for-infrastructure-on-november-6th/) **Published:** October 9, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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several states around the country including California, Connecticut, and Missouri. ASCE is a champion of infrastructure investment and this election season, the Society encourages you to take action on infrastructure-related ballot measures in your state. Join ASCE in improving our country’s D+ infrastructure. In **California**, Proposition 6 is a ballot measure that would repeal the 10-cent gas tax increase enacted by the passage of Senate Bill 1 (SB1) in 2017. The state is already seeing positive impacts from SB1 including repaved roads, bridge repairs, and more. ASCE encourages you to vote ***no*** on Proposition 6. Proposition 110 is an important infrastructure measure on **Colorado’s** ballot. This ballot measure would raise the state’s sales tax by 0.62% and create revenue to address longstanding problems with funding transportation projects in the state. ASCE encourages a ***yes*** vote on Proposition 110. **Connecticut** voters are faced with a Transportation Revenue Lockbox Amendment, which would require funds in the State Transportation Fund to be directly allocated to transportation improvement projects only. ASCE supports a ***yes*** vote on the Transportation Revenue Lockbox Amendment. **Missouri** voters will see Proposition D on their ballot, which would raise the state gasoline tax by 10 cents per gallon. ASCE says vote ***yes*** on Proposition D. Finally, **Rhode Islanders** should keep an eye out for two important ballot measures: the Rhode Island Environment, Recreation and Water Infrastructure Bond Measure and the Rhode Island School Buildings Bond Measure. The Rhode Island Environment, Recreation and Water Infrastructure Bond Measure would authorize $47.3 million in bonds for coastal resiliency, clean water and drinking water, wastewater treatment resiliency improvements, dam safety and other water related projects, while the Rhode Island School Buildings Bond Measure would allow the state to borrow $250 million in bonds for public school improvements. ASCE supports a ***yes*** vote on both measures. If you live in a state with infrastructure investment on the ballot, ASCE will be sharing additional information with you in the weeks leading up to the November 6th election. But first, make sure you are registered to vote. **Register to Vote** If you live in: - Arizona - Arkansas - Florida - Georgia - Hawaii - Indiana - Kentucky - Louisiana - Michigan - Mississippi - New Mexico - Ohio - Pennsylvania - Tennessee - Texas Today is the last day that you can register to vote for the 2018 Midterm Election on November 6th. ASCE encourages you to visit [vote.gov](https://vote.gov/) to ensure that you are registered in your state. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Vote%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20November%206th%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, National Category, New Mexico, News, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Save America's Infrastructure, Tennessee, Texas **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, elections, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, vote --- ### [Minnesota Earns a “C” in First Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/minnesota-earns-a-c-in-first-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** October 10, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Minnesota%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20in%20First%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, October 9, civil engineers gathered at the Minnesota State Capitol for the release of the first-ever Report Card for Minnesota’s Infrastructure. The Report Card gave the state’s infrastructure an overall GPA of “C” and evaluated and graded nine individual infrastructure categories: aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, ports, roads, transit, and wastewater. The Minnesota Infrastructure Report Card Committee assigned aviation the highest grade of a “B.” The report notes that in 2017, Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP) Airport and reliever airports underwent $455 million in improvements. On the other hand, Minnesota’s 140,000 miles of roads are in poor condition, earning a grade of a “D+.” The average driver in the Twin Cities spends 41 peak hours in congestion each year, averaging a cost of $1,332 in congestion costs and wasted time. In addition to grading statewide infrastructure systems, the Report Card also offers five solutions to improve Minnesota’s infrastructure. Recommendations include providing sustainable, long-term funding to modernize and maintain the state’s transportation network, as well as implementing robust asset management programs across the infrastructure categories. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/YwD1CPN51AcmB8Ztz0LUd?domain=icm-tracking.meltwater.com), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of “D+” in 2017. A full copy of Minnesota’s Surface Transportation Report Card is available at [infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota/). ![Minnesota Infrastructure Grades: nine blue category cards for Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Ports, Roads, Transit, and Wastewater with letter grades on badge icons.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/MN-Grades-400x174.png "MN Grades") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Minnesota%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%20in%20First%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Minnesota, National Category, News, Ports, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** aviation, bridges, dams, Drinking Water, energy, Minnesota, ports, report card, roads, state report card, transit, wastewater --- ### [Imagine A Day Without Water 2018](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/imagine-a-day-without-water-2018/) **Published:** October 10, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Imagine%20A%20Day%20Without%20Water%202018&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F10%2Fwater-400x200.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Imagine%20A%20Day%20Without%20Water%202018 "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Imagine%20A%20Day%20Without%20Water%202018&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Imagine A Day Without Water 2018** This morning most of us woke up, showered, brushed our teeth, and drank a cup of coffee. Throughout the day we all drank a few glasses of water and some of us might do a load of laundry before cooking dinner tonight. All of these tasks are things most of us take for granted. We expect water to come out of the tap the second we turn the faucet on and we expect dirty water to go down the drain and disappear, but the reality is, our water infrastructure is struggling. ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) found that our country’s drinking water systems earned a “D” and our wastewater systems earned a “D+.” We can hardly imagine a day without access to safe and reliable water systems, yet our water infrastructure network is rated as poor. Without clean water, our health, safety, economy, and environment is at risk. Americans across the nation know the importance of dependable and up-to-date drinking and wastewater infrastructure systems. In fact, [data](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/To%20share%20website%20-%202018%20VOW%20Poll%20Results.pdf) shows 88% of Americans, in all parties and regions, support increasing federal investment to maintain and rebuild water infrastructure. Today, the federal government honored the wants and needs of the American people with the Senate’s passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), a bill that authorizes programs and projects designed to improve water infrastructure systems – including our drinking and wastewater networks – throughout the country. Today, October 10, is the fourth annual “[Imagine a Day Without Water](http://imagineadaywithoutwater.org/),” a national day of action to raise awareness about the value of water. From “value of water” themed coffee stands to coloring contests to beach and river cleanups, organizations across the country are participating by educating decision makers and the public and advocating for reinvestment in our water infrastructure systems. ASCE is a proud advocate of infrastructure investment and participant in “Imagine a Day Without Water.” Join the [Value of Water](https://twitter.com/TheValueofWater?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor) and [ASCE](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel) in the ongoing conversation about investing in our drinking water and wastewater infrastructure networks. ![Infographic: The average American uses 17.2 gallons of water per shower, with a shower icon and event details 'Imagine a Day Without Water' (October 10, 2018; #ValueWater).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/water-400x200.jpg "water") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Priority](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/hntb-and-cbo-report-infrastructure-spending-is-high-priority/) **Published:** October 19, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=HNTB%20and%20CBO%20Report%20Infrastructure%20Spending%20Is%20High%20Priority&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=HNTB%20and%20CBO%20Report%20Infrastructure%20Spending%20Is%20High%20Priority "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=HNTB%20and%20CBO%20Report%20Infrastructure%20Spending%20Is%20High%20Priority&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, both [HNTB](http://www.hntb.com/) and the [Congressional Budget Office (CBO)](https://www.cbo.gov/) released reports on the need for infrastructure spending. **HNTB** The findings from HNTB’s commissioned poll, *[America Thinks: Funding Congestion Solutions – 2018,](http://hntb.com/getattachment/Newsroom/Press-Kits/America-THINKS-surveys-(1)/HNTB_AmericaTHINKS_CongestionSolutions_2018.pdf.aspx)* were revealed earlier this week. America’s infrastructure received an overall D+ grade in the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* and HNTB’s poll reveals the impact of the poor grade on the public and the increasing desire for infrastructure improvement. The results show that Americans are seeing a noticeable increase in traffic congestion and as a result they are willing to pay more to get the infrastructure they want and need. HNTB reports that Americans are “frustrated with increasing congestion” and are in favor of user fees and higher taxes to fund infrastructure improvements. Specifically, 60% of respondents have noticed worsening traffic congestion in the last year. To solve this problem, 46% of respondents said they support user fees or tolls and 27% favor higher taxes to fund upgrades. **CBO** HNTB’s poll coincides with the recent release of the Congressional Budget Office’s (CBO) *[Public Spending on Transportation and Water Infrastructure, 1956 to 2017](https://www.cbo.gov/system/files?file=2018-10/54539-Infrastructure.pdf)* report. The historical infrastructure spending data shows that federal government spending has only slightly increased over the years; while state spending has greatly increased over time. ASCE reports that 27 states have raised their gas tax in the past 5 years. As we move into election season, five more states are joining the ranks by putting their own infrastructure spending solutions on November ballots. [Find out](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vote-for-infrastructure-on-november-6th/) if infrastructure is on the ballot in your state and take a look at what you can do to help. The recent reports from HNTB and CBO illustrate the need and want for improved infrastructure systems. States are stepping up and the public is voicing their concern, but it’s time for an infrastructure package at the federal level. 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email")](mailto:?subject=HNTB%20and%20CBO%20Report%20Infrastructure%20Spending%20Is%20High%20Priority&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, cbo, hntb, infrastructure report card --- ### [TRIP releases new report on rough urban roads: motorists pay $130 billion annually in vehicle operating costs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/trip-releases-new-report-on-rough-urban-roads-motorists-pay-130-billion-annually-in-vehicle-operating-costs/) **Published:** October 25, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=TRIP%20releases%20new%20report%20on%20rough%20urban%20roads%3A%20motorists%20pay%20%24130%20billion%20annually%20in%20vehicle%20operating%20costs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The national transportation research group TRIP released a new report on October 17, 2018 identifying the urban areas with the roughest roads and highest costs for drivers across the country. “[Bumpy Roads Ahead: America’s Roughest Rides and Strategies to make our Roads Smoother](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/Urban_Roads_TRIP_Report_October_2018.pdf)” found that one third of the nation’s major urban roads are in substandard condition and these rough roads were costing the average driver $599 annually. California drivers are contending with the worst urban pavement conditions. Seventy-one percent of roads in the San Francisco-Oakland Area are in poor condition, costing drivers an average of $1,049 in vehicle operating costs each year. The other major metropolitan areas in California did not fare much better; San Jose was ranked second worst, with 65% of roads in poor condition and costing $983, while the LA -Long Beach-Anaheim region came in third with 57% of roads in poor condition, for a cost of $921 in annual vehicle operating costs. Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Honoloulu, Hawaii rounded out the top five, with 54% of roads in both cities in poor condition. ![Table ranking 20 urban areas: left column shows large urban areas (500k+) with state and poor share; right column shows mid-sized urban areas (200k-500k) with state and poor share.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/TRIP-400x201.png "TRIP")TRIP’s report also notes that vehicle travel rates have returned to pre-recession levels and large truck travel is forecasted to grow. Both trends are impacting road condition by accelerating the rate of pavement decline. Large commercial truck travel increased 29% from 2000 to 2016, and forecasts show travel will increase by approximately 56% by the year 2045. Increasing traffic volumes are an indication of the strength of the economy, but the lack of adequate funding for road repairs can hamper productivity. “Rough Roads” also draws on the United States Department of Transportation finding that the current backlog in needed road and highway rehabilitation totals $419.5 billion. The substantial gap between what we need to invest in our surface transportation infrastructure and what we are actually investing is explored in ASCE’s 2017 [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/). 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Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/connecticut-earns-a-c-in-infrastructure-report-card/) **Published:** October 31, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Connecticut%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F10%2FCT-Grades-400x141.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Connecticut%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card "Share on 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Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Connecticut%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Connecticut%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, October 30, the Connecticut Society of Civil Engineers released the *2018 Report Card for Connecticut’s Infrastructure*, grading five of the state’s infrastructure categories: bridges, drinking water, rail, roads, and wastewater. The Report Card gave the state’s infrastructure systems an overall grade of a “C-.” The Report Card was authored by the Connecticut Infrastructure Report Card Committee, who assigned rail with the highest grade of a “B.” The report highlights the Metro-North Railroad system which runs through the state. This is the busiest railroad system in the country with nearly 41 million annual passengers. The Committee assigned wastewater and roads with the lowest grades of “D+.” Most of the state’s roads are in poor or fair condition, as more than half of the network is over 55 years old. Additionally, $30 billion is needed to provide roadway facilities that would meet expectations of roadway users within 30 years. Connecticut’s wastewater infrastructure is in poor condition and requires a $4.6 billion investment solely to eliminate sanitary sewer overflows. The Connecticut Report Card offers solutions to improve the grades. Recommendations include continuing to prioritize investment in infrastructure during difficult budget cycles and modernizing and building resilient infrastructure to prepare for increasingly severe storms. State and localities of Connecticut should also increase investment in infrastructure to reduce costs for its’ residents down the road. Finally, it recommends that Connecticut residents vote ‘YES’ on the transportation lockbox amendment on November 6. A ‘yes’ vote will guarantee that all transportation funds are used solely for transportation purposes. ASCE State and Regional Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/YwD1CPN51AcmB8Ztz0LUd?domain=icm-tracking.meltwater.com), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of “D+” in 2017. Don’t forget to [tell your elected officials](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=492153) about the [*2018 Report Card for Connecticut’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/connecticut/)! ![Infographic titled Connecticut Infrastructure Grades displaying five category cards: Bridges (B), Drinking Water (C-), Rail (B), Roads (D+), Wastewater (D+).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/CT-Grades-400x141.png "CT Grades") [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Connecticut%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D%20in%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Card&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [Vote for Infrastructure on November 6th!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vote-for-infrastructure-on-november-6th-2/) **Published:** November 2, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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With November 6th days away, take the weekend to map out your voting plan of action. First, [find out](https://www.vote.org/am-i-registered-to-vote/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-11-02-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) if you’re already registered to vote then identify your polling precinct and determine how and when you’ll vote. If you aren’t registered to vote, some states offer [last minute and day-of voter registration](https://www.voterparticipation.org/2018-election-dates/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-11-02-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua). Can’t find your local polling location? [Snapchat users](https://www.engadget.com/2018/11/02/snapchat-election/) can open up their Snap Map on election day to find their closest polling place and don’t worry about how you’ll get there. [Uber and Lyft](http://spectrumlocalnews.com/nc/charlotte/news/2018/11/01/lyft-and-uber-to-offer-free-or-discounted-rides-on-election-day) are offering free and discounted rides on election day. **Join ASCE & Support Infrastructure** Over the weekend, take some time to research what will be on your ballot. You may notice that infrastructure investment is a popular topic this midterm election season. Infrastructure has made its way onto the ballot in several states around the country including California, Connecticut, and Missouri. ASCE is a champion of infrastructure investment and this election season, the Society encourages you to take action on infrastructure-related ballot measures in your state. Join ASCE in improving our country’s D+ infrastructure. In **California**, Proposition 6 is a ballot measure that would repeal the 10-cent gas tax increase enacted by the passage of Senate Bill 1 (SB1) in 2017. The state is already seeing positive impacts from SB1 including repaved roads, bridge repairs, and more. ASCE encourages you to vote ***NO*** on Proposition 6. Proposition 110 is an important infrastructure measure on **Colorado’s** ballot. This ballot measure would raise the state’s sales tax by 0.62% and create revenue to address longstanding problems with funding transportation projects in the state. ASCE encourages a ***YES*** vote on Proposition 110. **Connecticut** voters are faced with a Transportation Revenue Lockbox Amendment, which would require funds in the State Transportation Fund to be directly allocated to transportation improvement projects only. ASCE supports a ***YES*** vote on the Transportation Revenue Lockbox Amendment. **Missouri** voters will see Proposition D on their ballot, which would raise the state gasoline tax by 10 cents per gallon. ASCE says vote ***YES*** on Proposition D. Finally, **Rhode Islanders** should keep an eye out for two important ballot measures: the Rhode Island Environment, Recreation and Water Infrastructure Bond Measure and the Rhode Island School Buildings Bond Measure. The Rhode Island Environment, Recreation and Water Infrastructure Bond Measure would authorize $47.3 million in bonds for coastal resiliency, clean water and drinking water, wastewater treatment resiliency improvements, dam safety and other water related projects, while the Rhode Island School Buildings Bond Measure would allow the state to borrow $250 million in bonds for public school improvements. ASCE supports a ***YES*** vote on both measures. Join ASCE in supporting infrastructure investment during the 2018 midterm elections! 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email")](mailto:?subject=Vote%20for%20Infrastructure%20on%20November%206th%21&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Drinking Water, Inland Waterways, Levees, Missouri, National Category, News, Ports, Rail, Rhode Island, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, State, Transit, Uncategorized, Wastewater **Tags:** election, Environment, infrastructure investment, recreation, save america's infrastructure, surface transportation, transportation, vote, water --- ### [Infrastructure a Central Issue in the 2018 Election](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-a-central-issue-in-the-2018-election/) **Published:** November 5, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20a%20Central%20Issue%20in%20the%202018%20Election&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2018%2F11%2F2018.10.18_metro_Kane_midterms-infrastructure-fig1-400x310.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20a%20Central%20Issue%20in%20the%202018%20Election "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20a%20Central%20Issue%20in%20the%202018%20Election&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The top issues in the 2018 election look a little different from previous elections. Conversations and plans around infrastructure have crept up in campaign debates all over the country, when this topic normally would not hit the desk of the newly elected official, or incumbent, until after Election Day. [The Brookings Institution released a report on October 19, 2018](https://www.brookings.edu/research/where-states-and-prospective-governors-stand-on-infrastructure-in-the-2018-election/), comparing Democratic, Republican, and Independent gubernatorial candidates, their infrastructure plans, detail of plans, candidate support, and press coverage. ![2018 bar chart: share of candidates by infrastructure specificity, by party. Republicans: 7% no mention, 14% brief mention, 15% detailed mention; Democrats: 1% no mention, 9% brief mention, 26% detailed mention.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/2018.10.18_metro_Kane_midterms-infrastructure-fig1-400x310.png "2018.10.18_metro_Kane_midterms-infrastructure-fig1") More states are starting to focus on infrastructure because there is an increasing understanding that improving these systems will improve the state’s economy. Since federal funding for infrastructure has remained largely stagnant, many states are taking matters into their own hands. For example, an impressive [27 states](https://itep.org/most-states-have-raised-gas-taxes-in-recent-years/) have raised their motor fuel taxes in the past five years, while the federal gas tax has remained the same since 1993. [The Brookings Institution released a report on October 19, 2018](https://www.brookings.edu/research/where-states-and-prospective-governors-stand-on-infrastructure-in-the-2018-election/), comparing Democratic, Republican, and Independent gubernatorial candidates, their infrastructure plans, detail of plans, candidate support, and press coverage. Brookings researchers found that infrastructure has played a key role in most gubernatorial elections this 2018 election cycle, with Democrats leading the field in terms of advancing specific proposals and going beyond the typical transportation issues. There are 73 major candidates running for governor this year, and 64 of them mention infrastructure policy, possibly because they see how much is on their state’s plate when it comes to overseeing America’s infrastructure. Out of those 64 candidates who did discuss infrastructure policy, 41 offer detailed language on their views, but 18 candidates released plans with action involved. Of those 18, there were only 10 who added dollar amounts to their proposals, totaling around $25 billion. Political parties also played a part in this analysis. Out of the 36 Democratic gubernatorial candidates, 26 used detailed language when discussing infrastructure; whereas 15 out of the 36 Republican candidates detailed infrastructure in detail. Moreover, both parties’ candidates discuss transportation issues in one way or another in their campaign strategies. Some of those candidates are running in heavily populated areas, where transportation is a key issue. Specifically, transportation was mentioned in New York, where residents in New York City are struggling with an aging subway system and in California where [Prop 6](https://noprop6.com/), an effort to repeal the gas tax, is on the ballot. [ASCE urges California voters to mark “No” for Prop 6 on the ballot. ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-2018-report-card-for-californias-surface-transportation-infrastructure-gives-roads-a-d/) In this election, one thing is certain: infrastructure is a priority for many states regardless of political leanings. In 2017, the American Society of Civil Engineers gave America’s infrastructure a D+ on the [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), indicating that the nation’s infrastructure is in poor condition and clearly need action from Congress, states, infrastructure owners and the American people. Gubernatorial candidates this year understand this pressing need to turn ideas into action. 20 years ago, many people were unaware of the definition of infrastructure, but today it is a hot button item in candidate pitches, which may be due to the country’s poorly rated systems and crumbling infrastructure. Election results matter and so do your votes. If you want to see roads and bridges improved, cleaner drinking water, and better subway systems, head to the polls on November 6 and [join ASCE in supporting infrastructure investment!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vote-for-infrastructure-on-november-6th-2/) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20a%20Central%20Issue%20in%20the%202018%20Election&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, California, New York, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, 2018 election, gas tax, infrastructure investment, transportation, vote --- ### [Infrastructure Proves to be Priority on Election Night](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-proves-to-be-priority-on-election-night/) **Published:** November 7, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Proves%20to%20be%20Priority%20on%20Election%20Night&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Proves%20to%20be%20Priority%20on%20Election%20Night "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Proves%20to%20be%20Priority%20on%20Election%20Night&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Infrastructure investment was again a prevailing theme on ballots in many states this past election season. The midterm election poised an opportunity for states to create new revenue streams as well as secure existing ones. Let’s recap what happened with infrastructure initiatives on state ballots: - **[California](https://vote.sos.ca.gov/returns/ballot-measures)** rejected a repeal of the 10-cent gas tax increase with 55.4% of the vote. This means that the 6,500 road & bridge safety, transportation and public transit improvement projects can continue. - **[Connecticut](https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2018/11/06/us/elections/results-connecticut-elections.html?mtrref=www.google.com&gwh=7308F9B768950AA2E63B34F845C7254F&gwt=pay)** dedicated their fuel tax revenue to transportation projects by passing a lockbox measure. - **Maine** voters once again approved a [transportation bond measure,](https://bangordailynews.com/2017/11/07/politics/transportation-bond-vote/) which approved funding not only for the state’s roadways and bridges but, also airports, ports, rail and transit. - **Hillsborough County, Florida** approved a [sales tax increase](http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/baybuzz/2018/11/06/hillsborough-voters-approve-sales-tax-hikes-for-transportation-schools-improvements/) to fund long-sought transportation improvement projects as well as school repairs. Two of the state ballot measures ASCE had been working diligently on regrettably did not pass. ASCE will continue to work with both of these state legislatures to find innovative ways to improve infrastructure in their states. - **[Missouri](https://www.kshb.com/news/political/missouri-votes-down-prop-d-to-raise-the-gas-tax)** disappointingly rejected a 10-cent fuel tax increase, which would have allocated an estimated $400 million for Missouri’s transportation infrastructure improvements. Missouri’s gas tax will remain the 49th lowest in the country at 17 cents per gallon. - **Colorado** will not see any new money for transportation initiatives after [Proposition 110](https://denver.cbslocal.com/2018/11/06/proposition-109-proposition-110-transportation-funding-measures-rejected/) was defeated, which would have increased the state’s sales tax by .62% and created an estimated $800 million for local road & transit projects. Three non-transportation ballot measures ASCE followed fared well following yesterday’s vote: - The **City of Houston, Texas** soundly passed [Proposition A](https://abc13.com/politics/houstons-prop-a-passes-continuing-drainage-program/4633107/), which will continue funding for Rebuild Houston, a drainage improvement program. - **[Rhode Island](https://www.ri.gov/election/results/2018/general_election/)** overwhelmingly approved $250 million for public school building improvements as well as $47.3 million for clean water. As you head out on your daily commute, whether behind the wheel or aboard local transit, consider these results prime examples of how you can contribute to infrastructure improvements with just a single vote. Moving forward, the ASCE will continue to work closely on a bipartisan basis with state and federal legislators to identify and advance solutions for infrastructure funding across the country. 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Pennsylvania%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2016%2F10%2FPa-Report-Card-Cover.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Pennsylvania%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Pennsylvania%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The [*2018 Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/pennsylvania/) was released today at four events around the state. Pennsylvania earned a cumulative GPA of a “C-,” which was the same grade the state earned four years ago. The report included an evaluation of the state’s aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, freight rail, hazardous waste, inland waterways, levees, parks and recreation, passenger rail, ports, roads, schools, solid waste, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. Overall, Pennsylvania’s infrastructure is in mediocre condition.![Group of people posing outdoors with two blue-and-white information boards in front of a modern building](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_0123.jpeg "IMG_0123") Among the highest grades was freight rail, with a “B,” and parks and recreation and hazardous waste each with a “B-.” Freight rail infrastructure in the state has benefited from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Freight Rail Bureau and private sector support. While state parks and recreation infrastructure funding needs are significant – the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources requires $783 million to bring parks infrastructure back to a state of good repair – Pennsylvania is embracing new funding sources and has a history of prioritizing parks and green spaces. Additionally, hazardous waste infrastructure has benefited from reductions of waste generation and parties are working to clean up and redevelop abandoned contaminated sites. Conversely, the water categories received some of the lowest grades. Stormwater and drinking water each received “D” grades, while wastewater earned a “D-,” the lowest grade in the report. Much of Pennsylvania’s water infrastructure requires repair, replacement, and capacity upgrades. Pipes are even exceeding100 years in age. There is a significant funding gap between dollars spent and what is needed. In addition to analyzing 18 categories of infrastructure, the Pennsylvania Report Card Committee also made recommendations to raise the grades. First, the Committee recommended continued investment in the transportation infrastructure network. Act 89, the 2013 state legislature’s transportation investment package, provided significant funding increases for roads, bridges, and transit systems. Thanks to Act 89, 2,600 projects are currently in progress or have been completed around the state. Although progress is significant and transportation systems are steadily improving, there must be efforts of continued investment in transportation infrastructure to sustain momentum. Localities are urged to act to raise their own revenue.![Two speakers stand at a wooden podium in a grand hall with a marble staircase, posters on easels behind them for a presentation or press briefing.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/IMG_0333.jpeg "IMG_0333") Furthermore, the 2018 Report Card Committee recommended leadership and planning for water-related infrastructure systems. Water systems require investment commensurate with the role these systems play in protecting public health and safety. Finally, the *2018 Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure* found that we need to continue to prepare for the future. Given the significant backlog of needs across the state, innovative solutions are more important now than ever. ASCE recommends lawmakers fund research, development, and deployment of new ideas. Moreover, private industry should have a seat at the table to help identify new technologies and we should continue to foster collaboration. The Pennsylvania State Council representing the Central Pennsylvania, Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Sections of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) published the 2*018 Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure.* You can read the full Report Card for Pennsylvania’s Infrastructure at [www.pareportcard.org](http://www.pareportcard.org) or [infrastructurereportcard.org/Pennsylvania](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/Pennsylvania). 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“lame-duck” session, facing a funding deadline to prevent a partial government shutdown and other lingering issues. Additionally, both parties are conducting leadership elections this week, parts of which will linger into weeks ahead. Party leadership, new Committee Chairs, and Ranking Members will all need to be selected in these leadership elections. Among the pending issues of interest: **Appropriation** – There are only 22 days (as of Friday 11/16) before the current extension on programs at the U.S. Department of Transportation as well as Housing and Urban Development expires. Due to this tight deadline, the [Transportation, Housing & Urban Development (THUD) appropriations bill](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/6147/actions) must be passed during this lame-duck session. Earlier this year, the Senate passed this title through a minibus on August 1, and the House has yet to take action on the measure. House and Senate Appropriations Committees have named conferees to hash out the differences in the legislation, and ASCE’s government relations team has been [actively engaged](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b7e7cf43d-d0ef-4700-9b58-49501676ac0f%7d_ASCE_Conference_Committee_THUD_FY19_Request-Final1.pdf) to ensure key transportation infrastructure priorities are properly funded. We look forward to our continued work with appropriators during this lame duck session to make sure this gets passed the finish line. **Hazards Mitigation** – The National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), which was created in 1977 to coordinate federal efforts on research, mitigation, and responses to earthquakes. The program’s last authorization expired in 2009 and while NEHRP continues to operate, the focus of the involvement of some federal agencies has been lost. ASCE has worked with Congress and other stakeholders to get the program reauthored. On September 27th, the Senate passed S. 1768, which would reauthorize NEHRP with a number of small changes supported by ASCE. ASCE is working closely with members and staff of the U.S. House of Representative in hopes of completing work on legislation following the election. Additionally, the National Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP) short-term extension expires on November 30; the program is currently operating under its seventh short-term extension since its expiration on September 30, 2017. **Parks** – The [Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/lwcf/index.htm) expired on September 30 and needs to be reauthorized. Established in 1964, the LWCF uses revenues generated from offshore oil and gas leases to conserve national parks, areas around rivers and lakes, national forests, and national wildlife refuges. It also provides matching grants for state and local parks and recreation projects. Earlier this fall, the [Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources](https://www.energy.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings-and-business-meetings) passed [S. 569](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/569) to permanently reauthorize the LWCF and to remove it from the annual congressional appropriations cycle, ultimately requiring mandatory funding each year. The House Committee on Natural Resources passed [H.R. 502](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/502), which would permanently reauthorize the LWCF, but would not require mandatory funding. Each chamber still needs to vote on these bills. ASCE supports reauthorization and full funding of the LWCF as a way to raise our [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) [public park’s](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) grade of “D+,” and we submitted a [Statement for the Record](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7B5b72fa86-689d-46c7-8418-a7c7d1182e77%7D_ASCE_Statement_for_the_Record_ENR_LWCF_10.2.18.pdf) to the Senate in support of the program earlier this fall. As these issues unfold, ASCE will keep you informed as they develop. Stay tuned for Key Alerts asking you to reach out to your Members of Congress to help get anyone of these across the finish line before Congress adjourns the 115th Session. 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country. These effects include year-round flooding, more risks associated with future disasters, increasing ozone levels as temperatures are rising, and more states are taking proactive steps to adapt to climate change impacts. Required by law, scientists in the Trump Administration last week released the [Fourth National Climate Assessment](https://nca2018.globalchange.gov/?wpisrc=nl_powerup&wpmm=1), a 1,656-page report that concludes that the government “must act aggressively to adapt to current impacts and mitigate future catastrophes…to avoid substantial damages to the U.S. economy, environment, and human health and well-being over the coming decades.” The report states, “Without significant global greenhouse gas mitigation and regional adaptation efforts, climate change is expected to cause substantial losses to infrastructure and property and impede the rate of economic growth over this century.” Mandated by Congress to come out every four years, 300 scientific experts produced this product under the guidance of a 60-member federal advisory committee. It was open to review by the public, 13 federal agencies, and a panel at the National Academy of Sciences. The last report was released in 2014. The release of this report comes on the heels of another report by the [United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change](http://www.ipcc.ch/), which found that the world would have to make unprecedented changes in the next decade to remain below 2.7 degrees Fahrenheit of total warming above preindustrial levels. The report argues that climate change is already affecting the planet, but it is about to get worse, while also bringing on costs to the country. Scientists in the report also express that it is not too late to come up with proactive solutions. The climate detriments include worsening droughts, wildfires, floods, with severe and permanent impacts to infrastructure, agriculture, and an expected increase in infectious disease outbreaks. For example, the continental U.S. is 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than it was 100 years ago, surrounded by seas that are on average nine inches higher, and is experiencing worsening heat waves—with many U.S. cities seeing an additional 40 days of heat waves a year since the 1960s. As we have seen the past few years, the number of heavy rainstorms that cause flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, and other extreme weather events are becoming more common. According to the National Oceanic and Atmosphere Administration, the U.S. has experienced 40 hurricanes identified as billion-dollar disasters since 1980, using 2018 inflation-adjusted dollars, with a cumulative damage estimate of $862 billion. Hurricane Maria in 2017 took the lives of nearly 3,000 people; the combination of Hurricane Maria with Hurricanes Irma and Harvey cost $268 billion, or 31% of the combined damage since 1980 – making it the most expensive hurricane season in 38 years. In the past 13 months, California has seen two of its largest wildfires in terms of acreage, two of its most destructive blazes in terms of structures lost, and the deadliest fire on record, which has already claimed at least 85 lives. The report also examines the global impacts of climate change and affirms that climate change is already affecting American companies’ overseas operations and supply chains, and as these impacts worsen, it will take a toll on trade and the economy. The impacts of climate change are expected to affect developing countries the worst, leading to global instability and putting additional burdens on the U.S. for humanitarian assistance and disaster aid. The report suggests that by 2050, the continental U.S. could see as much as 2.3 additional degrees of warming and estimates labor-related losses by the year 2090 as a result of extreme heat. These costs could amount to an estimated $155 billion annually, while coastal property damage could total $118 billion yearly. The report asserts, “A significant portion of climate risk can be addressed by integrating climate adaptation into existing investments, policies, and practices,” but that “While mitigation and adaptation efforts have expanded substantially in the last four years, they do not yet approach the scale considered necessary to avoid substantial damages to the economy, environment, and human health over the coming decades.” The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is a champion of measures that ensure our nation’s infrastructure is resilient to withstand the most extreme climate events. In fact, as part of the [ASCE Committee on Adaptation to a Changing Climate](https://www.asce.org/climate-change/committee-on-adaptation-to-a-changing-climate/) and the [Infrastructure Resilience Division](https://www.asce.org/infrastructure-resilience/infrastructure-resilience-division/), ASCE recently released a manual of practice for civil engineers titled, *Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adaptive Design and Risk Management*. This manual provides timely guidance and solutions for civil engineers to help them design infrastructure that is more resilient, methods for infrastructure analysis, and meet societal needs in a world where risk profiles are changing requiring a new design philosophy. This manual is available at the [ASCE Bookstore.](https://www.asce.org/booksandjournals/#/16f141378088bd6bce63a0ecf95a9b94) Despite the significant findings in the report, the Trump Administration has downplayed its significance. Earlier this week, President Trump and a cabinet secretary questioned some of the findings, and they have not come out to fully support them. Over the past nearly-two years, the Trump Administration has moved to undo a number of regulations intended to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The incoming Democratically controlled House of Representatives has vowed to make climate change solutions one of their top priorities in the next Congress. 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6, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Committee for a Study of the Future Interstate Highway System, and the Transportation Research Board (TRB) released a congressionally mandated report, “[Renewing the National Commitment to the Interstate Highway System: A Foundation for the Future](http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=25334&_ga=2.205058901.413092455.1544190621-274921280.1544190621).” Norman R. Augustine, formerly of Lockheed Martin Corporation, chairs the Committee. The report noted a variety of critical challenges facing our interstate highway system: the lack of technical innovation, the aging interstate highway system, a number capacity needs due to growing population, a backlog of structural and operational deficiencies, and consequences of climate change and weather extremities on our interstates. The authors proposed multiple recommendations: increase the federal motor fuels tax in the short-term, fix the Highway Trust Fund (HTF); ensure better working intergovernmental partnerships between Congress, the Federal Highway Administration, Department of Transportation, and states on new technology of roads; and lift tolling restrictions or charge a vehicle mile traveled (VMT) down the road. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) members who contributed to this report include Moshe E. Ben-Akiva, Chris T. Hendrickson, Kirk T. Steudle, P.E., and C. Michael Walton, P.E.—all of whom sit on the Committee for a Study of the Future of Interstate Highway System. ASCE Honorary Fellow and former USDOT Secretary Norman Y. Mineta also served on this committee. Additionally, ASCE members Katherine Kortum, P.E. and Monica A. Starnes, staff members of the Transportation Research Board, made contributions to the report. The report confirms ASCE’s long held position that in order to improve the state of our surface transportation network in the near term, policymakers must fix the HTF by [supporting an increase in the federal motor fuels tax](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-382---transportation-funding/). This user fee hasn’t been raised since 1993 and inflation has cut its real value by 40%. The failure to update our federal motor fuels tax has led to inadequate support of the HTF and poor surface transportation infrastructure. Our nation’s infrastructure received a “D+” on the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, with [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridges-Final.pdf) and [roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Roads-Final.pdf) receiving grades of “C+” and “D,” respectively. These subpar grades are a result of the long-term underinvestment in surface transportation infrastructure. Despite increased investments by 27 states over the last five years, continued underinvestment will cause our transportation infrastructure to further degrade. Travel has changed. Our interstates are not only used for long-distance travel; more people are using them to travel locally, especially trucks. According to the report, our population has grown 1% per year and the GDP has grown by 3% per year – increasing the demands of Congress on the highway system. The system is aging, and not gracefully. The report also states that more roadways have exceeded their design life expectation and too much money is going into road and bridge maintenance. The report also notes that an astonishing over-5,000 plus fatalities per year occur on interstates, which is unacceptable. Furthermore, failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, which will impact business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and public safety. As Congress commences work on a comprehensive infrastructure renewal program as well as the next surface transportation reauthorization, ASCE will continue to urge lawmakers to #FixTheTrustFund and invest in our national interstate highway system. 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infrastructure, interstate highway system, investment, roads, transportation, travel --- ### [Secretary Chao and Lawmakers to Announce 2018 BUILD Grants](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/secretary-chao-and-lawmakers-to-announce-2018-build-grants/) **Published:** December 12, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Secretary Elaine Chao announced $1.5 billion worth of Build Utilizing Investments to leverage Development (BUILD) transportation grants. She was joined by Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), and Jack Reed (D-RI), Congressmen Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) and David Price (D-NC), and Mayor Jamael Brown of Youngstown, Ohio at a US DOT event. The BUILD Grant Program, formally known as TIGER, awards multimodal, discretionary grants to road, rail, transit, and port projects. Last year, Congress provided the program with $1.5 billion through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2018. This was sizable increase from the FY 2017 appropriations level of $500 million. Secretary Chao announced that 91 projects in 49 states and the District of Columbia received awards. Rural communities in particular benefited from this round of BUILD awards. Together, rural communities received 62% of awarded projects. Applications from rural communities more than doubled from previous TIGER application rounds. Secretary Chao noted that these awards “rebalances a 10-year, historical underinvestment in rural communities.” Projects that bring broadband to rural communities were especially lauded, as were border security infrastructure projects and multimodal rail and port projects that are awarded funding this year. Secretary Chao called BUILD a “down payment” on President Trump’s infrastructure proposal of $200 billion in direct federal investment. This sentiment was echoed by subsequent speakers. Sen. Collins remarked, “we can use much more,” after discussing projects awarded to her home state of Maine. Sen. Reed said he looked forward to “building on BUILD” in subsequent months in Congress. The need for increased funding beyond BUILD was also echoed by application metrics. 851 eligible applicants from all 50 states applied for funding. Project applications totaled nearly $11 billion, demonstrating the oversubscription of the program. ASCE’s 2017 *Infrastructure Report Card*, graded our nation’s bridges and ports, roads, and rail infrastructure a “C+,” “D,” and “B,” respectively. These grades reflect insufficient investment in key components of our nation’s infrastructure network. We continue to urge Congress and the Administration to act and find ways to rebuild and invest in our nation. For a map of 2018 awarded projects, click [here](https://www.transportation.gov/policy-initiatives/build/build-grants-2018-awarded-projects). Fact sheets on each project are available [here](https://www.transportation.gov/policy-initiatives/build-2018-fact-sheets). 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“[Public Private Partnerships (P3s) for Federal Energy Management](https://energycommerce.house.gov/hearings/public-private-partnerships-for-federal-energy-management/).” Committee members discussed the current status, challenges, and opportunities for increasing energy efficiency savings and conservation in federal facilities and programs, which would be done through the primary U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) public-private partnerships (P3s) of [Energy Savings Performance Contracts](https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/energy-savings-performance-contracts-federal-agencies) (ESPCs) and [Utility Energy Service Contracts](https://www.energy.gov/eere/femp/utility-energy-service-contracts-federal-agencies) (UESCs). Testifying before the committee was Ms. Leslie Nicholls, Strategic Director for Federal Energy Management Program at DOE; Mr. Jack Surash, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy and Sustainability at the U.S Department of the Army (DOA); Mr. Kevin Kampschroer, Chief Sustainability Officer and Director of the Office of Federal High-Performance Buildings at the General Services Administration (GSA); and Mr. Ed Bradley, Executive Director of the Office of Asset Enterprise Management at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). In his opening statement, Subcommittee Chairman [Fred Upton (R-MI)](https://upton.house.gov/) urged the subcommittee during the discussion to rethink the definition of a “federal building” and “energy savings.” He also asked the members to consider how energy efficiency upgrades impact facility operations and maintenance life-cycle costs. Upton further discussed the need to examine how ESPCs and UESCs and continue to deliver energy savings. Ranking Member [Bobby Rush (D-IL)](https://rush.house.gov/) highlighted the concern that the lack of consistent reporting impedes the ability to accurately determine savings. He also asserted that ESPCs and UESCs play a role in addressing energy efficiency improvements. Witnesses provided testimony on the use of ESPCs and UESCs by discussing how to better use energy efficiency life-cycle cost analysis, and resilience in federal buildings. As Congress and the Administration continue to examine innovative infrastructure financing techniques, building for resilience, and minimizing the impacts of climate change; the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) continues to urge for investment in our national infrastructure system to strengthen our nation. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Panel%20Examines%20Federal%20Energy%20Management&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Energy, National Category **Tags:** energy, life cycle cost analysis, life cycle costs, P3s, public-private partnership, resilience, resiliency --- ### [Nevada’s Infrastructure Grades Improve](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/nevadas-infrastructure-grades-improve/) **Published:** December 19, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Hall. Twelve categories of infrastructure earned an overall grade of a “C,” advancing from a “C-” in 2014. Among the category grade boosts was aviation, which went from a “C-” to a “C,” bridges, moving up from a “C-” to a “B-,” and roads, which improved from “C-” to a C. Transit’s grade progressed from a “C-” to a “C” and school infrastructure earned a “C-” in 2018, which is a slight increase from a “D+” four years ago. The infrastructure categories that saw grade increases benefited from investment, strong leadership, and planning. Both Washoe and Clark County voters indexed their fuel taxes to inflation, increasing the amount of revenue that supports bridges and roads. Today, Nevada’s bridge network is among the best in the country – only 1.5% of bridges are structurally deficient. Both international airports – Reno-Tahoe and Las Vegas – are experiencing major rehabilitation projects. The two largest school districts – Clark County with 320,523 students and 369 campuses and Washoe County with 63,919 students and 104 campuses—are constructing new schools and upgrading existing facilities. Despite the improving condition of much of Nevada’s network, the state has some challenges. Bridges and roads are aging, and the state faces a $450 million backlog of road and bridge repairs, mostly due to needed repairs in rural areas. Dams received the lowest grade of a “D+,” which is the same grade from 2014’s Report Card. Funding for dams’ operation and maintenance costs has remained stagnant, which is consistent with much of the country. Due to challenges in in rural parts of the state, the solid waste grade decreased from a “B-” in 2014 to a “C” in 2018.Drinking water and wastewater grades remained the same as 2014. The Nevada 2018 Report Card makes several recommendations to raise the grades. First, funding the State Infrastructure Bank, which provides loans and grants to help local jurisdictions in need of financial support to qualify for federal funds, is critical. Second,, civil engineers in the state urge decision-makers to increase operations and maintenance funding as Nevada builds out and adds to its infrastructure budgets. Third, there is a directive to index the state gas tax to inflation in the rural counties that declined to act in previous years. The final recommendation is to continue to support emerging technologies, as Nevada is already fostering an attractive culture for forward-thinking companies. The report determined the following infrastructure category grades: aviation (C), bridges (B-), dams (D+), drinking water (C-), energy (B-), public parks (B-), roads (C), schools (C-), solid waste (C), stormwater (C), transit (C) and wastewater (B-). The full Report Card is available to download at [infrastructurereportcard.org/Nevada](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/Nevada). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Nevada%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Grades%20Improve&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized --- ### [President Signs Earthquake Program Reauthorization](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-signs-earthquake-program-reauthorization/) **Published:** December 20, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Reduction Program (NEHRP)](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/1768), which reauthorizes the federal program to improve the nation’s earthquake preparedness for five years. The legislation is the first reauthorization of the NEHRP in 15 years and the program has operated without an authorization since October of 2009. In addition to reauthorizing the program, the bill makes reforms by: - Expanding to the scope of the program to include increasing the resilience of communities and to developing new planning codes along with model building codes. - Including a definition of Community Resilience and referring to “Lifelines” as “lifeline infrastructure.” - Requiring the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to review the program, the activities of the program agencies, and the effectiveness of its application to both public and private earthquake risk and hazard reduction activities within 3 years. - Requiring Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to convene a committee of experts to recommend options for improving the built environment and critical infrastructure needed to support Community Recovery and resilience. - Removing outdated language related to earthquake prediction and instead emphasizing the continued development of earthquake early warning systems through the Advanced National Seismic System. - Enhancing coordination and data sharing among federal and state agencies. **ASCE Advocates for NEHRP** ASCE and others in the earthquake community, most prominently the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) and the Seismological Society of America (SSA), worked with Members of Congress, their personal staffs and staff of the Senate Commerce Committee, the House Science and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, in crafting and approving this legislation. Congressional leaders in the effort were Senators Feinstein (D-CA) and Lisa Murkowski (R-CA) on the Senate side and Congressman Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA), Science Committee Chair Lamar Smith (R-CA), Congressman Steve Knight (D-CA) and Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) on the House side. Over the past 9 years, each of the previous efforts at reauthorization were derailed, often by unrelated partisan issues, even with efforts by ASCE and other groups pushing to keep the issue alive. ASCE’s efforts have included four official testimonies before three different Congressional committees, including Anne S. Kiremidjian, Ph.D., Dist.M.ASCE before the Senate Commerce Committee and Chris Poland, P.E., S.E., NAE, M.ASCE, F.SEI before the House Science Committee, both 2011. In 2015, John D. Hooper, P.E., S.E., F.SEI, F.ASCE testified before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Most recently, Poland, testified again before the [House Science Committee](https://science.house.gov/legislation/hearings/field-hearing-earthquake-mitigation-reauthorizing-national-earthquake-hazards) on June 2, 2018. ASCE sent more than 40 letters to Members of Congress and Congressional leadership, while staff made over 160 Congressional office visits to advance the bill. ASCE grassroots activities included 12 Key Alerts, which resulted in 1,000 emails and calls by [Key Contacts](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/) in 2018 alone. Thank you to our members who stepped up to testify for NEHRP reauthorization, our Key Contacts who sent numerous emails to their Members of Congress, and all other ASCE members for your continued support and advocacy efforts! **About NEHRP** First created in 1977, [NEHRP](https://www.nehrp.gov) coordinates federal research to understand and mitigate the impact of earthquakes. It coordinates the activities of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the U.S. Geological Survey, and the National Science Foundation, and can draw on the expertise of other federal and state agencies. Through NEHRP, the federal government has engaged in seismic monitoring, mapping, research, testing, engineering, and related reference materials for building code development, mitigation, and emergency preparedness. NEHRP is the source for hundreds of new technologies, maps, design techniques, and standards that are used by design professionals every day to mitigate risks and save lives, protect property, and reduce adverse economic impacts. The nine-year path to reauthorization of the program is a case study in the difficulties of moving legislation, even non-controversial programs such as NEHRP, through Congress over the past several years. 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email")](mailto:?subject=President%20Signs%20Earthquake%20Program%20Reauthorization&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** 115th Congress, advocacy, earthquakes, NEHRP, save america's infrastructure --- ### [2018 Sees 13 New State & Local Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2018-sees-13-new-state-local-infrastructure-report-cards/) **Published:** December 28, 2018 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Infrastructure Report Cards! Thirteen state and local report cards were released, each with a set of grades and information on regional infrastructure needs and opportunities. Importantly, these ASCE Report Cards are already yielding results. For example, in California, the *2018 Report Card for California’s Surface Transportation Infrastructure* helped convince voters to reject a ballot measure repealing the state’s gas tax increase. ASCE Infrastructure Report Cards are the product of countless hours of volunteerism from ASCE members — especially the Report Card Committee Chairs. In addition to a civil engineer and ASCE member, the Chair of a Report Card Committee wears many hats. They are a project manager, a legislative strategist, a spokesperson, an editor, and much more. Chairs dutifully ensure the Report Card gets across the finish line, and delivers the overarching message to policymakers and the public, which can result in significant improvements to the state’s infrastructure. **ASCE is grateful for the leadership, vision and dedication from the Chairs of 2018 Infrastructure Report Cards:** - Illinois – Darren Olson, P.E., D.WRE, M. ASCE & Patrick Lach, P.E., M. ASCE - Michigan – Myndi Bacon, P.E., M.ASCE & Steve Waalkes, P.E., M.ASCE - Idaho – Seth Olsen, P.E., M.ASCE - Kansas & Missouri – Sheryl Gallagher, P.E., D.GE, M.ASCE - Duluth – Craig Bursch, P.E., M.ASCE - Kern County, California – Dan Cronquist, P.E., P.L.S., M.ASCE - California Surface Transportation – Tony Akel, P.E., M.ASCE & John Hogan, P.E., M.ASCE - Connecticut – David Chapman, P.E., M.ASCE & Omkar Jambotkar, P.E., M.ASCE - Pennsylvania – Cathy Farrell, P.E., M.ASCE & John Caperilla, EIT, A.M.ASCE - Minnesota – Jason Staebell, P.E., M.ASCE & Seth Spychala, P.E., M.ASCE - Montana – Shari Eslinger, P.E., M.ASCE & Dan Karlin, P.E., M.ASCE - Nevada – Chuck Joseph, P.E., M.ASCE & Tanner Hartranft, P.E., M.ASCE Additionally, we are grateful for all the authors and reviewers that comprise the Committee that works alongside the ASCE Report Card Chairs. Thanks to these Committees, we are seeing exciting results. Local governments and state legislatures are investing in roads, bridges, water systems and more. These investments, along with improved leadership, planning, and preparation for the future, improve our quality of life and our economic competitiveness. Thank you! 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ASCE released 12 state infrastructure report cards; advocated for and passed a number of federal bills, including the passage of the [Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reauthorization bill](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-aviation-administration-faa-reauthorization-moves-forward/) and the [Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-2018-signed-into-law/); and worked with ASCE members in individual states during the midterm elections to pass ballot measures that would fund infrastructure projects. ASCE’s Government Relations team saw countless successes this year and looks forward to many more in 2019. To read more about what ASCE did in 2018, take a look at our top five blog posts from the year: 1. [President Trump Releases Much Anticipated Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-trump-releases-much-anticipated-infrastructure-plan/) In February, the Trump Administration released an infrastructure proposal, which included federal investment to help spur investment from state and local governments and private investors. 2. [President’s State of Union Lays Out Infrastructure Vision](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/presidents-state-of-union-lays-out-infrastructure-vision/) Prior to releasing his infrastructure plan, President Trump called for investment in the nation’s infrastructure during his State of the Union address directed at Congress and the nation. 3. [Civil Engineers React to President Trump’s Infrastructure Plan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-react-to-president-trumps-infrastructure-plan/) Following the State of the Union address and the release of the Trump Administrations infrastructure proposal, ASCE President Kristina Swallow provided a statement calling for action from Congress. 4. [New Report Offers Recommendations to Address Flood Risk in Texas One-Year Post-Harvey](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-offers-recommendations-to-address-flood-risk-in-texas-one-year-post-harvey/) In August, the Texas Section of ASCE released [Addressing Flood Risk: A Path Forward for Texas After Hurricane Harvey](http://www.texasce.org/FloodRisk), a new report with recommendations for flood risk management. 5. [Congress Begins WRDA 2018 Discussions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/) In January, Congress began discussing the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2018, which was signed into law in October. ASCE advocated for the passage of this bill throughout most of the year, as it authorizes the federal government to fund programs that are key to America’s water infrastructure systems. 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President Trump’s proposed border wall with Mexico, has entered its 19th day. Unfortunately, the shutdown is directly impacting infrastructure projects across the country. Many key federal agencies responsible for our nation’s infrastructure are not fully operational, which affects our nation’s roads, bridges, parks, and transit systems, as new projects cannot get started and current projects are put on hold. As of now, many federal construction programs at the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) have been directly affected by this shutdown. State DOTs across the country, uncertain of future federal funding, have been hesitant to authorize highway construction projects planned for 2019. [For example, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation postponed accepting bids for approximately $137 million in projects because the state is uncertain of whether the federal share will be reimbursed. ](https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/trafficandcommuting/highway-and-transit-projects-grind-to-a-halt-as-the-shutdown-continues/2019/01/08/0ec80468-1369-11e9-90a8-136fa44b80ba_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.2a5d42154cb4)In Oklahoma, bidding for summer projects occurs in the first two months of the year, and an extended shutdown will adversely affect the summer construction season. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued a notice earlier this week giving 50 state DOTs and the District of Columbia an extra $30 billion to start new federal-aid highway projects. However, the FHWA warned these agencies that if Congress enacts a short-term agreement to reopen the government, the states will have to put most of that money back in the interim. Some USDOT infrastructure entities could also be affected, such as [Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/about) (BUILD, formerly TIGER) grants, which draw from the general fund. [USDOT just recently announced nearly $1.5 billion in BUILD grant awards,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/secretary-chao-and-lawmakers-to-announce-2018-build-grants/) which have been slowed down due to the shutdown. The shutdown is not only harming our country’s infrastructure and related agencies. Billions of dollars in post-disaster aid to cities and states have been delayed due to the U.S. Housing & Urban Development’s (HUD) inability to issue guidance on how to apply for the funds. Additionally, [many of our National Park System parks remain open but unstaffed by park rangers](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/2019/01/why-national-parks-trashed-during-government-shutdown/)—leading to health, safety, and environmental concerns as trash and human waste pile-up, roads go unplowed, and historically prominent sites are vandalized. These park closures also have a direct effect on surrounding cities’ economies. Finally, thousands of ongoing transportation investigations, research, and engineering efforts are put on hold as the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) accident investigators have been furloughed due to the shutdown. In an effort to end this partial shutdown, the U.S. House of Representatives has begun to take up appropriation bills to reopen the Cabinet-level departments and affected agencies. The U.S. House of Representatives is expected to take up: - [HR 267](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/267?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%5B%22HR+267%22%5D%7D&s=1&r=1), the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2019, which provides $71.4 billion in spending, which is $1.1 billion more than the FY 2018 level and $23.3 billion more than the President’s FY19 budget request. The bill also provides for the release of $49 billion from both the highway and aviation trust funds. Under this legislation, there is $750 million in supplemental funding for Airport Improvement Program (AIP), $1 billion for BUILD Grants, and $2.6 billion for Transit Capital Grants (CIG). - [HR. 266](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/266), the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2019. The bill provides $35.9 billion to the USDOI and the EPA, including $63 million for the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) program and $2.9 billion combined for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds—all of which are also equal to the current FY18 funding level. H.R. 267 and H.R. 266 are effectively identical to the bill language passed by the Senate in 2018 in a “[minibus,”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-spending-bills-moves-through-the-senate/?utm_campaign=GR-2018-08-03-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) or multi-appropriations bills package. As negotiations between Congress and the President continue, ASCE’s government relations team will continue to actively encourage Members of Congress and the Administration to end this partial shutdown, which will put employees back to work, open our parks, and resume infrastructure projects. Then federal lawmakers can begin to advance legislation that invests in our country’s infrastructure, including an infrastructure bill. For our nation to have a complete infrastructure system and progress towards the future, Congress and the Administration must now work together to open up the government and resume our crucial infrastructure projects. 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Transportation Grades Improve](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2019-report-card-for-washingtons-infrastructure-state-earns-an-overall-grade-of-a-c-transportation-grades-improve/) **Published:** January 16, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F01%2FIMG_0352-400x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F01%2FIMG_0352-400x300.jpg&description=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=2019%20Report%20Card%20for%20Washington%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20earns%20an%20overall%20grade%20of%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D%3B%20Transportation%20Grades%20Improve&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")![Panel of four people in business attire seated behind a long black table with microphones in a conference setting.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_0352-400x300.jpg "IMG_0352")ASCE Report Card Chair Richard Fernandez King County Transportation Commissioner Shiv Batra Washington State DOT Regional Administrator Mike Cotten and Washington Association of Water and Sewer Districts Executive Director Judi Gladstone speak at the 2019 Report Card release at Seattle City HallThis morning, the Inland Empire, Seattle, and Tacoma-Olympia Sections of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the *[2019 Report Card for Washington’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/washington/)*. Nine categories received an overall grade of a “C,” which is the same grade the state received in 2013. Despite the overall unchanging GPA, several categories saw significant progress.. Transportation infrastructure benefited from the increased investment provided by Washington voters and the State Legislature. Bridges earned a “C+” in 2019, up from a “C-” in 2013, while roads and transit each earned a “C-,” both up from a “D+” six years ago. The schools grade also increased, earning a “C+” in 2019, up from a “C” in 2013. Included for the first time in the Washington Report Card were stormwater and wastewater infrastructure evaluations. Stormwater earned a “D+,” the lowest grade in the 2019 Report Card, while wastewater earned a “C-.” Washington is a leader in innovative and sustainable methods for managing stormwater as its own separate entity from wastewater, but funding shortfalls and an aging infrastructure network are significant near-term challenges. In addition to assessing each category, ASCE made a series of [recommendations](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE_Brochure%E2%80%94WA2019.pdf) on how to raise the grades in the *2019 Report Card for Washington’s Infrastructure.*. First, the Report Card recommends decision-makers leverage sustainable loan programs to finance necessary infrastructure projects around Washington, by including better utilization of federal revolving loan programs, such as the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) and the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA). Engineers further recommend that financing from the state’s Public Works Trust Fund be used for its intended purpose of modernizing infrastructure, rather than offset spending elsewhere in the state budget. Additionally, ASCE recommends balancing the needs of urban and rural communities. In this Decade, Seattle is the fastest growing city, and its residents have responded to challenges such as increased congestion and worsening air quality, by voting to provide additional funding for transit and school facilities. These actions are clear indications that Puget Sound is preparing for its future. However, investment and priority should not be limited to urban areas; rural Washington communities require support for maintaining and improving water, roads, aviation networks, and more. In addition, there must be continued focus on the implications of a larger population, including demands on water supply, wastewater, and schools,, particularly in the larger metropolitan areas. Finally, ASCE members recommend Washington take a leading role in building environmentally sustainable and resilience infrastructure to prepare for natural disasters. This Report Card notes that Washington is home to vital natural resources, a pristine environment, and a population that treasures them. Projects such as green stormwater infrastructure to protect fish and wildlife, preparation for seismic risks, and improved mobility to fight congestion will protect Washingtonians in the years ahead. However, all these initiatives require robust, sustained investment to adequately prepare. To read the full *2019 Report Card for Washington’s Infrastructure*, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2019-WA-Infrastructure-Report-Card.pdf). 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### [Business Leaders Ready to Support Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/business-leaders-ready-to-support-infrastructure/) **Published:** January 16, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Business%20Leaders%20Ready%20to%20Support%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Business%20Leaders%20Ready%20to%20Support%20Infrastructure "Share on 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This announcement coincides with strong voter support – the latest polling from Politico reveals that 79 percent of Americans want to see increased federal investment in infrastructure. To ensure the nation’s long-term economic growth and competitiveness, an infrastructure modernization plan must be enacted. Specifically, the Chamber laid out the following infrastructure priorities they would like to address this year: - Enact a long-term infrastructure modernization bill. - Enact changes to ensure that there is sufficient dedicated revenue to maintain the solvency of the Highway Trust Fund (HTF). - Provide a toolkit of options for supplemental funding and financing of other critical infrastructure including through public-private partnerships (P3s), dedicated user fees, and revolving loan programs. - Continue to streamline the federal permitting process, including the use of concurrent reviews and time limits for agency decisions. - Encourage similar permitting reforms at the state and local levels. ASCE is a member of the Chamber-led [Americans for Transportation Mobility](https://www.fasterbettersafer.org/) (ATM) coalition, and has long advocated for numerous improvements to our transportation infrastructure system including [fixing the HTF](https://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) through a 25-cent increase to the federal motor fuels tax. As ASCE’s government relations team continues to advocate for the need to fix our infrastructure system, we will continue to engage with the business community and other stakeholders. Leaders from all levels of government, business, labor, and nonprofit organizations must come together to ensure all investments are spent wisely, prioritizing projects with critical benefits to the economy, public safety, and quality of life, while also planning for the costs of building, operating, and maintaining the infrastructure for its entire lifespan. American families are still losing $3,400 in disposable income per year, which is essentially $9 a day, because of the lack of action. Now is the time for leadership and we continue to urge Congress and the Administration to work together to fix our infrastructure and strengthen our economy. 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Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the *[2019 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/georgia/)* Fourteen infrastructure categories were given an overall grade of “C+.” In 2014, the state received a cumulative GPA of a “C.” ![Formal meeting in a grand hall with white columns; attendees sit facing a speaker at a podium near the front, with banners and a staircase in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/IMG_0362-400x195.jpg "GA RC Release") The following state’s transportation categories, bridges (“C+”), roads (“C+”), and transit (“D+”), saw grade increases when compared to the 2014 Report Card. These improving grades were partially due to significant new investments such as [HB 170,](http://www.legis.ga.gov/Legislation/en-US/display/20152016/HB/170) as well as improvements to regional cooperation, such as the Atlantic Transit Link Authority (ATL). The ATL brings together Atlanta’s four transit systems under a new regional governance and aims to improve system efficiency. The grade in the ports category (“B-”) also increased, in part thanks to additional funding for the ambitious and forward-thinking the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project. Georgia’s school facilities also saw improvement in capacity and condition. Since 2014, 26 new schools have been built in Georgia and more than $1.14 billion in funding has been restored to the school system. Attention has also been placed upon the future needs of schools, setting money aside for the inevitable growth to come.While still holding a low grade, stormwater infrastructure (drains, manholes, pipes, ditches, etc.) also saw an improvement over the last five years, rising from a “D+” in 2014 to a “C-” in 2019. Nearly 20 stormwater utilities have been added within the state. The creation of utilities better enables localities to raise revenue for needed stormwater infrastructure projects. However, as the state looks to the future, Georgia’s growing population is likely to continue to stress its stormwater management infrastructure and additional action will be needed to protect water quality in streams, rivers, and lakes. Despite the positive news of the state’s transportation and stormwater grades, two categories declined in grades and three categories remain unchanged. Solid waste (“C”) and wastewater (“D+”) grades both dropped. Due to aging infrastructure and capacity needs for future population growth, Georgia’s wastewater utilities are facing a plethora of challenges. The number of publicly-owned treatment plants increased from 306 to 334 from 2008 and 2012, and that population served by these plants reached 5.6 million. However, with Georgia’s booming population, about half of all Georgians still do not have access to public sewer service, instead relying on septic systems. The estimated municipal wastewater needs for Georgia totals $2.7 billion and most of the state’s wastewater infrastructure funding comes from sewer user fees. While significant improvements headline the positive story of Georgia’s successes in the last five years, challenges remain, which are addressed in [five key solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE_Brochure%E2%80%94GA2019.pdf) to raise the grades in the 2019 Report Card for Georgia’s Infrastructure: - Transit legislation that created the ATL was a landmark event, and now the metro Atlanta region must focus on effectively implementing a regional transit system strategy that includes adequate, reliable funding and an excellent user experience to provide competitive alternative commuter options. - A significant number of Georgia’s water-related utilities (drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater) are consistently underfunded. The long-term viability of these utilities will require adequate user fees that cover the full cost of service. - Georgia has more than doubled its dam safety staff since 2014, and significantly increased the number of dams with emergency action plans. As more deficient dams are identified, the state should press for alternative funding options, such as grant programs, to ensure private dams are repaired in order to protect downstream lives and property. - The ongoing Savannah Harbor Expansion Project remains a bright spot in Georgia’s efforts to create deep water ports. The long-term viability of these ports will require improved rail and truck freight transportation networks to efficiently get goods to and from the port. - Landfill owners should consider raising solid waste tipping fees for out-of-state waste. Georgia’s per capita waste generation is skewed to almost double the national average due to our tipping fees being significantly less than bordering states. In order to measure success and make progress in Georgia’s infrastructure categories, increased awareness of infrastructure needs and continuous funding are necessary. To read the full report, visit [infrastructurereportcard.org/Georgia](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/Georgia). 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Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Georgia, News, Ports, Rail, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Solid Waste, Transit, Wastewater **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, Georgia, transportation --- ### [North Dakota Grades its Infrastructure: State Earns a "C"](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/north-dakota-grades-its-infrastructure-state-earns-a-c/) **Published:** January 30, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=North%20Dakota%20Grades%20its%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The first-ever *[Report Card for North Dakota’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/north-dakota/)* was published by the ASCE North Dakota Section. Eight categories of infrastructure received an overall grade of a “C,” an indication that infrastructure in the state is in mediocre condition overall. The Report Card was released at a press conference at Bismarck. Guest speakers included Senate Majority Leader Richard Wardner (R-37), House Minority Leader Joshua Boschee (D-44), Bismarck Mandan Chamber Board Member and Executive Director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission Scott Davis, and North Dakota Department of Health, Environmental Health Section Chief David Glatt. The highest grade assigned in the 2019 assessment was to roads, which earned a “B-.” Roadways in North Dakota have adequate capacity and most agencies are investing appropriately in maintenance. The lowest grade in the 2019 scorecard was dams, which earned a “D.” Forty-nine of North Dakota’s dams are high-hazard potential. Of the state’s high-hazard potential dams, 73% have a condition assessment rating and 50% of these are deficient and do not meet accepted safety standards. Although dam conditions are of concern, they are regularly inspected and most high-hazard potential dams have emergency action plans. Bridges also earned a low “D+.” Currently, there is a $400 million backlog of necessary bridge projects, most of them on bridges owned by local agencies. Other notable findings include: - Most of the state’s energy is generated by coal, but in recent years, wind has made up about ¼ of the total energy generation. - Following heavy flooding in 2009, 2010 and 2011, North Dakota has made major investments to improve the condition and capacity of the state’s 627 levees. - Over $1 billion dollars has been spent, from all funding sources, on flood related projects along the Red River alone since 1997. - North Dakota is home to 29 transit agencies serving urban and rural populations, but ridership is declining. While North Dakota’s overall grade was better than the national “D+,” there are challenges for the state in the near future. Roads earned a “B-,” but existing funding is insufficient to meet future needs. Should revenue remain stagnate, estimates show that state-maintained roads in poor condition will nearly double between 2018 and 2021, from 443 miles to 872 miles. The state’s gas tax is lower than its neighbors in the Midwest and hasn’t been raised since 2005. Since the start of the 2019 North Dakota legislative session, several bills have been introduced that seek to increase available funding for transportation infrastructure, either by increasing gas taxes or utilizing other sources of revenue. In addition to an assessment of the state’s infrastructure systems, the *Report Card* *for North Dakota’s Infrastructure* also offers three key recommendations to improve the state’s infrastructure and the overall grade. The first is to implement sustainable funding sources. In addition to raising the gas tax, sustainable funding may be found through utilization of the North Dakota Legacy Fund, which can be used to provide low interest loans for infrastructure improvements. The second solution is to encourage and fund innovative design solutions and technology to keep the state competitive nationally and globally. Finally, the Report Card suggests working with infrastructure owners to develop asset management plans. It is important for infrastructure owners to have enough information to properly prioritize key projects and determine where to spend limited funding. A full copy of the *Report Card for North Dakota’s Infrastructure* is available at [InfrastructureReportCard.org/North-Dakota](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/kCLdCYEl6NTyMzXs0KTWJ?domain=icm-tracking.meltwater.com). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=North%20Dakota%20Grades%20its%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** North Dakota --- ### [ASCE Supports Public Financing Tools to Fund Key Infrastructure Projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-public-financing-tools-to-fund-key-infrastructure-projects/) **Published:** January 31, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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[Government Finance Officers Association](http://www.gfoa.org/) (GFOA), an ASCE coalition partner and lead of the Public Finance Network (PFN), released a report entitled, “Understanding Financing Options Used for Public Infrastructure.” For well over a century, state and local governments and public entities across our nation have used [tax-exempt bonds](http://www.gfoa.org/municipal-bond-resource-center) as a means to provide added revenue to help finance key infrastructure projects. This report highlights the importance of this key financing tool by discussing the fundamentals and role of tax-exempt bonds for our communities to cost-effectively invest in our infrastructure. State and local governments have three main ways to finance infrastructure projects: - pay-as-you-go financing, - using intergovernmental revenues, and - issuing bonds or securing other financing. The use of bonds, which is debt financing, is accomplished by issuing bonds to pay for specific infrastructure projects. The bond issuance is determined or approved by community members through ballot measure or by their elected representatives. This debt instrument holds a low, tax-free interest rate that eventually matures, as well as a fixed sum of money. Additionally, the accumulated interest is payable to those who bought the bond, in other words, the bondholder. This process ultimately keeps borrowing costs low for state and local governments who are looking to make infrastructure investments because of the low interest rate associated with them Because tax-exempt bonds offer low borrowing costs, this tool has become a popular financing option for state and local governments across our nation. From 2007-2017, bond issuance amounted to $3.6 trillion. The accumulated revenue during this time period had been used to finance numerous infrastructure projects including transportation, general utilities, electric power, and environmental facilities. Although positive financing opportunities are provided by tax-exempt bonds, they do not replace the need for public funding of infrastructure projects. In ASCE’s 2017 *[Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/),* our nation’s infrastructure earned a cumulative grade of a “D+,” and in order to raise our grade we need to spend $4.59 trillion and fill a $2 trillion deficit over the next decade. Revenue to fix our infrastructure needs to come from all levels of government, which includes strong federal leadership, and public-private partnerships (P3s) such as tax-exempt bonds as part of a multi-investment approach. Financing tools are just a set of tools in the toolbox to fix our nation’s infrastructure, but our nation’s infrastructure cannot be repaired and modernized on these financing tools alone. If the United States is serious about achieving an infrastructure system that is fit for the 21st century, we must recognize the role of financing options and continue to encourage strong federal support. 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Supports%20Public%20Financing%20Tools%20to%20Fund%20Key%20Infrastructure%20Projects&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** bonds, financing, infrastructure, infrastructure investment, investment, P3s, public-private partnership --- ### [Midwest Polar Vortex Impacts Critical Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/midwest-polar-vortex-impacts-critical-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 1, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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lines above.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/25338555111_2becccc6d5_z-400x316.jpg "25338555111_2becccc6d5_z")This past week, a blast of polar air covered much of the Midwest, closing schools and sending staff home early—causing businesses and restaurants to close shop before the end of the day. Piercing the Midwest with record low temperatures, infrastructure systems were also strained. Rail lines were snapped and gas-fed heaters ran alongside the rails in[ Chicago](https://www.cnn.com/2019/01/30/us/chicago-train-tracks-fire-trnd/index.html) to keep them warm, which made residents think the train tracks were on fire. Hundreds of flights around the country were cancelled ahead of time, so passengers could make alternative plans instead of spending the night in the airport. Utilities, such as water and electric systems also felt the effects of the cold winter air. Day to day, we don’t think much about our infrastructure systems, but after several states recorded sub-zero temperatures this past Wednesday, infrastructure was top of mind. We tend to think about our infrastructure systems when water mains break or the power goes out. With the sudden weather drop into negative temperatures, many people in the Midwest and North experienced just that. Civil engineers work on these issues daily, and it is part of their duty to promote the safety, health, and welfare of the public. When our systems are stress-tested during these brittle temperatures, our engineers are ready to talk about how this polar vortex impacts our water and electric infrastructure. - On Wednesday, ASCE Past-President and Chair of ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure Greg DiLoreto spoke with [WCPN](https://www.ideastream.org/news/infrastructure-suffers-in-the-freeze-and-thaw-cycle) about the strain the freeze and thaw cycle puts on infrastructure - ASCE member Otto Lynch, CEO of Power Line Systems, interviewed with [Associated Press](https://apnews.com/40a83ec0e2574d85829b6e36ba82a17c) about the impacts of winter weather on pipes, water systems, and electric infrastructure Stay safe and warm this winter season! [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Midwest%20Polar%20Vortex%20Impacts%20Critical%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2F25338555111_2becccc6d5_z-400x316.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Midwest%20Polar%20Vortex%20Impacts%20Critical%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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Kemper, PE, President, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) on President Trump’s State of the Union address to Congress on February 5, 2019: “We appreciate that the President identified infrastructure as one of his top priorities for legislative action this year, and indicated that it is not an option, but a necessity. Infrastructure plays a vital role in the safety and well-being of every American, and ASCE’s [2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave the nation a dismal D+ across sixteen categories.” “It is no surprise that 79 percent of Americans say it is extremely important to increase spending on our nation’s infrastructure. Infrastructure legislation must be at the top of the list for the 116th Congress. The American people are counting on them to work together to identify funding to modernize America’s infrastructure. ASCE believes that a bipartisan infrastructure bill should address the following priorities: - Fix the Highway Trust Fund to modernize our nation’s roads, bridges and transit systems. - Eliminate the cap on the Passenger Facility Charge to modernize our nation’s airports. - Put trust in the Harbor Maintenance Trust fund by fully appropriating the Harbor Maintenance Tax collections each year.” “We have continued to underinvest for far too long, and an infrastructure bill is overdue. In order to raise our grade from a D+ to an acceptable level, we need to fill a $2 trillion deficit over the next decade. Failing to invest in and modernize our infrastructure is continuously putting strains on our families and the economy. Deficient bridges, congested highways, outdated transit systems, an unreliable electric grid and leaky water pipes cost the average American family $3,400 a year—which is $9 a day—in disposable income. Any infrastructure legislation should provide substantial and long-term benefits to the economy, consider the cost of a project over its lifespan and be built with a focus on resilience and sustainability to maximize the investment. It is time Congress and the President get this done for American families. Today, ASCE urges the 116th Congress to make modernizing the nation’s infrastructure the number one priority in 2019 by developing and passing infrastructure investment legislation.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Civil%20Engineers%20Urge%20Congress%20to%20Pass%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20in%202019%20after%20President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20Union%20Address&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Civil%20Engineers%20Urge%20Congress%20to%20Pass%20Infrastructure%20Bill%20in%202019%20after%20President%20Trump%E2%80%99s%20State%20of%20Union%20Address "Share on 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congress, congress, President Trump, SOTU, State of the Union, state of the union address --- ### [Kentucky Grades its Infrastructure: State Earns a “C-”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kentucky-grades-its-infrastructure-state-earns-a-c/) **Published:** February 6, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Kentucky%20Grades%20its%20Infrastructure%3A%20State%20Earns%20a%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The ASCE Kentucky Section released its *[2019 Report Card for Kentucky’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kentucky/),* giving the state a “C-.” Civil engineers examined the state’s aviation (C+), bridges (C-), dams (D+), drinking water (C+), energy (B-), hazardous waste (D), levees (D+), roads (D+), solid waste (B-), and wastewater (C-).The Report Card was released at a press conference in Frankfort, KY. Guest speakers included State Rep. Walker Thomas (R-8), who is also the Vice Chair of the House Transportation Committee; Andy Barber, State Highway Engineer with the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet; Peter T. Goodmann, Director of the Kentucky Division of Water; and Donna McNeil, Executive Director of the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority.![Man in a suit giving a presentation at a podium, with a large ASCE Kentucky Grades poster on an easel to his right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/KYRC-400x267.jpg "KYRC") The Kentucky surface transportation categories, roads and bridges, saw slight increases in the report, thanks to the implementation of Governor Bevin’s Strategic Highway Investment Formula for Tomorrow (SHIFT) evaluation and scoring system. In addition, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) recently instituted the Bridging Kentucky program, which will restore more than 1,000 state, county and municipal bridges across Kentucky’s 120 counties between 2018 and 2024. These repairs will add at least 30 years of life to most of these bridges, on top of construction for bridge replacement, which would provide at least 75 years of useful life. Kentucky has already made some incremental progress in reducing the number of structurally deficient bridges throughout the state. In 2011, nearly 9.25 percent of all bridges in Kentucky were structurally deficient; by 2017, 7.77 percent were structurally deficient. Kentucky’s rural communities require significant funding to ensure their residents have access to clean drinking water and to address existing aging water and wastewater infrastructure systems. Even though Kentucky’s water service level is one of the highest in the United States, more than an estimated 100,000 residents are still without access to a public drinking water supply. Access to wastewater treatment facilities is a significant issue for many Kentucky communities. The pipelines that send wastewater to treatment plants are more than 70 years old, and 40 percent of Kentuckians do not have access to water treatment plants, relying on septic tanks or other private systems, the condition of which is generally unknown. Sitting at one of the lowest grades in the Report Card at a “D” was hazardous waste, which is defined as any liquid, solid, contained gas, or sludge that pose a serious threat to human health and environment. Kentucky projected $1.6 billion in remedial costs, and there are hundreds of old or abandoned waste sites that still pose threats to the environment and public health. Other notable findings in the report include: - Kentucky airports have a total economic impact of nearly $15 billion annually, yielding nearly 115,000 jobs. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky and Louisville International Airports account for more than 83 percent, or approximately $12.5 billion, of the total economic impact annually. - The current operating budget for the Dam Safety section of the Division of Water is $529,490 annually, which is one-third of the budget eight years ago. - All of Kentucky’s levees are protecting more than 306,000 lives and $46.6 billion in property, including hospitals; universities; major manufacturing facilities; critical utilities such as electric power, water and wastewater plants and densely populated metropolitan areas. - KYTC recently identified $6 billion in unfunded construction projects, which would require an additional $490 million per year to address. In addition to an assessment of the state’s infrastructure systems, the *Report Card* *for Kentucky’s Infrastructure* also offers many solutions to address the state’s infrastructure needs and raise Kentucky’s grade: - Prioritize investment in the state’s infrastructure even during tight budget cycles by strategically working together with state legislators, agencies, municipalities, business owners, citizens and subject matter experts. - Invest in Kentucky’s multimodal freight network to retain the state’s competitive advantage while preparing for future growth and changes and provide robust investment for intermodal connections and bottlenecks in the network. - Increase the Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) cap, which would help Kentucky airports access additional capital to support and improve the state’s aviation infrastructure. - Support the submitted highway investment SHIFT formula used in the development of the six-year 2018 Highway Plan and determine sustainable, long-term funding to fully address the deficiencies that remain in the state’s transportation network. - Coordinate with rural communities on finding viable funding, which will allow them to invest in critical infrastructure even with a limited population from which to generate revenue. A full copy of the *Report Card for Kentucky’s Infrastructure* is available at [InfrastructureReportCard.org/Kentucky](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kentucky/). 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In the last five years, severe flooding as well as Hurricanes Matthew and Florence have caused nearly 80 dams to fail in South Carolina. Despite the recent history of costly dam failures in the Palmetto State, state legislators are considering two proposals that would significantly rollback dam safety regulations. Both bills, [SB 81](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php) and [SB 107](https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php), are pending in the Senate Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee, and propose to remove more than 1,700 of the state’s 2,300 regulated dams from oversight by the state. These bills will eliminate safety ![Riverside construction site with yellow excavators along a muddy bank and dense green vegetation under a blue sky. Power lines run overhead.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/dams-400x267.jpg "dams")regulations for all low-hazard potential dams in the state and seek to eliminate some safety regulations for significant-hazard potential dams with an agricultural purpose. The measures are largely supported by the South Carolina Farm Bureau, and effectually place many South Carolina residents and their property at an increased risk of disastrous consequences because of the failure of deficient and sub-standard dams. SB 81 and SB 107 weaken dam safety statutes and increase the overall risk of catastrophic dam failures. ASCE is partnering with the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO) and other groups to express serious concern about SB 81 and SB 107. In 2018, Hurricane Florence flooded much of the eastern part of the state. Up to a dozen dams failed during Florence, including one that flooded U.S. 501 in eastern South Carolina. If passed, these bills could leave residents, their properties, and state-owned infrastructure at risk and increase the overall risk of catastrophic dam failures. Of particular concern is whether dams are being maintained appropriately. Many are aging earthen structures. In some cases, they were originally built in rural areas that now have development downstream. Historically, South Carolina lawmakers have struggled to address dam safety. In recent years, they have failed to pass tougher dam safety rules. However, since the historic 2015 flood, which caused more than 50 regulated dams to crumble and cost millions of dollars in property damage—while also prompting lawsuits by downstream property owners, the issue received a higher profile. In the [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org), [dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) received grade of a “D,” which is one of the lowest grades in the Report Card. Due to aging systems and a growing population, states across the country are seeing more dams classified as high-hazard potential, meaning the need for increased safety regulations and emergency action plans (EAPs) is more important than ever. Currently, [South Carolina](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/south-carolina/) has 178 high-hazard potential dams and 89% of state dams have EAPs. ASCE urges the state legislature to be proactive in ensuring dam safety, which will then protect the welfare of populations near dams and all the benefits dams bring to our communities. Catastrophic storms are not stopping anytime soon and will continue to impact our state. We cannot afford to wait until a dam failure has occurred to do take action. Help us protect and improve dam safety in South Carolina. [Tell your legislator why dam safety matters](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495661). 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House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee](https://transportation.house.gov/) held a hearing focused on the urgent need for a plan that invests in America’s infrastructure. The hearing, “[The Cost of Doing Nothing: Why Investing in Our Nation’s Infrastructure Cannot Wait](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/the-cost-of-doing-nothing-why-investing-in-our-nations-infrastructure-cannot-wait),” was led by U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio, chairman of the committee. Rep. DeFazio began the hearing stating, “We know that our infrastructure investment needs are massive. According to the [American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)](https://www.asce.org/), we have an investment gap of [$2 trillion over 10 years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) to fix what we have, meet future needs, and restore our global competitiveness. The investment gap in surface transportation alone is over $1 trillion. The gap for water, port, and related infrastructure is $249 billion.” As the House T&I Committee’s first hearing of the 116th Congress, it is also part of a legislative push on Capitol Hill aimed at developing and passing a broad infrastructure package. This hearing followed Tuesday’s [State of the Union Address](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-urge-congress-to-pass-infrastructure-bill-in-2019-after-president-trumps-state-of-union-address/), in which President Trump identified infrastructure investment as a top priority for the second year in a row. Notably, he said, “it’s a necessity, not an option,” and asked Congress to produce an infrastructure package that invests in vital national infrastructure projects. In Rep. DeFazio’s opening statement, he asserted, “We are starting off by sounding the alarm bells – investing in America’s infrastructure cannot wait.” ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) echoes this alarm by assigning America’s infrastructure network with an overall grade of a “D+.” The Report Card and the 2016 economic study, [*Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/), both detail the immediate need for investment and the consequences of a lack of inaction. The hearing included [testimonies ](https://transportation.house.gov/imo/media/doc/2019-02-07%20Hearing%20SSM.pdf)from a number of [leaders](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/the-cost-of-doing-nothing-why-investing-in-our-nations-infrastructure-cannot-wait) in freight, aviation, water, and business sectors. Witnesses included Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, speaking on behalf of the National Governors Association; Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti, testifying on behalf of the U.S. Conference of Mayors; former U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood; and, President of UPS Freight, Rich McArdle, presenting on behalf of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Testimonies covered the need for investment and argued that continued lack of investment would negatively affect each infrastructure category. The [U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=A73B1CC1-D6D6-4B18-A419-9F33FB5F69BA) will also hold a hearing on infrastructure investment next week We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s infrastructure. To close the $2.0 trillion 10-year investment gap, meet future need, and restore our global competitive advantage, we must increase investment from all levels of government and the private sector from 2.5% to 3.5% of U.S. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, 116th congress, House, house of representatives, infrastructure, transportation --- ### [The Grades are In: Vermont’s Infrastructure GPA a “C”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-grades-are-in-vermonts-infrastructure-gpa-earns-a-c/) **Published:** February 13, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Grades%20are%20In%3A%20Vermont%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20GPA%20a%20%E2%80%9CC%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The *[2019 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/FINAL_REPORT_ASCEVT_web.pdf)* was published today by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Nine categories of infrastructure – aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, roads, solid waste, stormwater and wastewater – earned cumulative GPA of a “C.” While the overall GPA was the same as what the state earned in 2014, there were positive results from the updated scorecard. The bridges grade increased from a “C” to a “C+,” a reflection of the progress the Vermont Department of Transportation has made in reducing the number of structurally deficient bridges. While this success should be celebrated, Vermont’s transportation infrastructure is aging, and future needs are significant. The average age of a bridge in the state is 57 years, which is considerably older than the national average of 43 years reported in the 2017 national ASCE *[Infrastructure Report Card.](http://infrastructurereportcard.org)* Another bright spot in the 2019 Vermont Report Card was the energy category, which earned the highest grade with a “B-.” The state has prioritized the modernization of its grid over the past several years. In many places, smart meters, automation controls, and an expanded fiber optic system are now in place. The state also has plans to use 90% renewables by 2050 across all energy uses. On the opposite end, stormwater and wastewater both earned a “D+,” the lowest grade in the report card. Stormwater was a new category. Vermont’s civil engineers found that many rural communities lack stormwater utilities and that the network is facing an investment gap of nearly $1.25 billion over the next 20 years. The wastewater category also scored low but was an improvement from the 2014 category grade. The Vermont Clean Water Act, passed in 2015, prioritizes wastewater infrastructure to better protect and preserve the quality of the state’s receiving waters. In addition to assessing nine categories of infrastructure, the *[2019 Report Card for Vermont’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/)* makes recommendations to raise the grade. These directives include the need to: - **Promote innovation and forward-thinking:** Vermont’s infrastructure is aging and is challenged yearly by climate change and other external factors. To meet these challenges, an emphasis on adequate planning for future repairs, replacement, and new technologies is needed. Forward thinking can extend assets’ lifespans, reduce costs, and improve the environment. Resilient infrastructure that can adapt with the times to provide economic and environmental benefits and utilizes emerging technologies should be promoted whenever possible. - **Prepare for more severe weather conditions:** Our key infrastructure systems must be resilient against the consequences of climate change. Our infrastructure should not only be able to withstand increasingly severe storms, but support emergency response and facilitate a return to regular order as efficiently as possible. State agencies have been putting systems in place to increase resiliency that should be supported, expanded, and maintained even as the memories of Tropical Storm Irene begin to fade. - **Support sustainable local funding sources:** While Vermont depends heavily on federal funding and financing to supplement our state budget, our leaders at both statewide and municipal levels must establish balanced and forward-thinking budgets that incorporate sustainable funding practices for infrastructure. Funding sources should consider the long-term cost of infrastructure over its full lifespan, including operation and maintenance. Much debate has occurred recently on how this will take shape as we work to improve our water quality and road infrastructure, but the conversation should be expanded to other categories of infrastructure. - **Balance the needs of urban and rural communities:** Vermont’s communities are very diverse in structure and density, with equally diverse infrastructure needs and investments required to meet individual community needs. Urban infrastructure projects may benefit a larger number of people, but funding for rural infrastructure ensures that all Vermonters have equitable access to jobs and a strong quality of life. - **Invest in water infrastructure:** Vermont’s water infrastructure, defined as stormwater, wastewater, and drinking water, are among the lowest scoring infrastructure categories in the state. Strategic planning and investment of time, innovative minds, and fiscal resources in these areas is important to ensure a healthy and prosperous environment and population for decades to come. - **Advocate and participate:** Vermont has a proud tradition of advocacy and public involvement. We need to channel that energy toward improving the infrastructure that Vermonters rely upon. Talk to your legislators, reach out to decision-makers, and let them know about the importance of maintaining the public assets that protect our health, safety, and welfare. To read the full report card, visit [infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/). 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government for the remainder of fiscal year (FY) 2019. Included in the package ([P.L. 116-6](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-joint-resolution/31)) are the following infrastructure related spending levels: - $86.5 billion overall for the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT); $900 million for BUILD grants; $13.4 billion for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), which includes $2.55 billion for Transit CIG program; $17.5 billion for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which includes $3.35 billion for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) with a $500 million supplemental; and $49.3 billion for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). - $35.6 billion for the U.S. Interior Department and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is a $300 million increase above the FY18 enacted level. The Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs would receive the same level of funding as the FY18 enacted level. - $17 billion for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which is $5.8 billion above the President’s request. Funding includes $250 million for the National Pre-Disaster Mitigation Fund as part of the recently authorized National Public Infrastructure Pre-Disaster Mitigation Assistance, which was enacted by the Disaster Recovery Reform Act. In Science areas, the measure includes: - $8.075 billion for the National Science Foundation (NSF), which is $603 million above the President’s request. - $21.5 billion for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which is $1.6 billion above the President’s request. - $985 million for the National Institutes of Standards and Technology (NIST), which is $356 million above the President’s request. The Senate passed the measure by [83-16](https://www.senate.gov/legislative/LIS/roll_call_lists/roll_call_vote_cfm.cfm?congress=116&session=1&vote=00026), and the House cleared it, [300-128](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2019/roll087.xml), and President Trump signed it into law. The enactment of these spending levels continues last year’s bipartisan budget deal between Congress and President Trump which increased spending levels for infrastructure – $10 billion for FY2018 and $10 billion for FY2019. Despite this commitment from Congress and the Administration, FY2019 spending barely reached the overall $10 billion commitment. As negations begin on FY2020 spending levels, we urge Congress and the Administration to continue the positive trend seen in the last two appropriation cycles and fund our infrastructure needs. Providing more funding to existing programs, rather than creating new programs, will reduce overhead costs and startup time, while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across all sectors of U.S. infrastructure. Infrastructure is the backbone of our nation’s economy and we ask Congress to engage in bold leadership so that we can restore America’s world-class infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Lawmakers%20Reach%20Spending%20Deal%20for%202019&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, #infrastructurenow --- ### [Senate Commerce Examines America’s Infrastructure Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/senate-commerce-examines-americas-infrastructure-needs/) **Published:** February 15, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Senate%20Commerce%20Examines%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Examines%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Wednesday, the [U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/) examined the opportunities for infrastructure improvement, including federal funding, financing programs, and permitting and regulatory streamlining at a hearing entitled, “[America’s Infrastructure Needs: Keeping Pace with a Growing Economy](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=A73B1CC1-D6D6-4B18-A419-9F33FB5F69BA).” The testimony the witnesses provided before the full committee hearing focused on the committee’s role in technology, multimodal transportation, and key grant and Highway Trust Fund (HTF) programs. The following people testified: - William Friedman, Chairman of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), President and CEO of the Cleveland-Cuyahoga County Port Authority; - Ian Jefferies, President and CEO of the Association of American Railroads (AAR); - Matthew Polka, President and CEO of the American Cable Association (ACA); - Chris Spear, President and CEO of the American Trucking Association (ATA); and - Larry Willis, President of Transportation Trades Department at AFL-CIO. - All witnesses urged lawmakers to increase the federal gas tax to fix the HTF. As the hearing started, Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS) [stated](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?Id=A73B1CC1-D6D6-4B18-A419-9F33FB5F69BA&Statement_id=352BA6C5-AC56-4FCE-A3ED-8E1BE1916738), “[The American Society of Civil Engineers report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gives our infrastructure a grade of D+. Our ports are congested. Americans spend eight billion hours stuck in traffic each year. In Mississippi alone, there are thousands of structurally deficient bridges. These statistics mean fewer jobs, less time with family, lower economic growth, or worse. Fortunately, improving our infrastructure is an area where bipartisan agreement and cooperation can be found,” and “Given its jurisdiction, this committee is in a unique position to examine how technology, including advances in automation, artificial intelligence, and connectivity, can revolutionize transportation and mobility for the 21st Century.” Further into the hearing, Chairman Wicker asked if the federal gas tax should be indexed, and whether the country’s surface transportation infrastructure would be in better shape if it had been done earlier. Transportation-focused panelists agreed that the federal gas tax should be indexed and agreed we would be in a better situation if this had already been done. Capitol Hill is booming with hearings, discussions, and meetings as a part of a legislative push aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. The Senate Commerce Committee joined in on the conversations around this legislative push today as they began the discussion of infrastructure investment at the hearing. This hearing followed on the heels of last week’s [U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee hearing](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-panel-sounds-the-alarm-on-infrastructure-investment/?utm_campaign=GR-2019-02-08-TWiW%20Email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Eloqua) and the [State of the Union Address](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-urge-congress-to-pass-infrastructure-bill-in-2019-after-president-trumps-state-of-union-address/), where President Trump identified infrastructure investment as a top priority for the second year in a row. Notably, he said, “it’s a necessity, not an option,” and asked Congress to produce an infrastructure package that invests in vital national infrastructure projects. We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s infrastructure. To close the $2.0 trillion 10-year investment gap, meet future need, and restore our global competitive advantage, we must increase investment from all levels of government and the private sector from 2.5% to 3.5% of U.S. ASCE’s government relations team is actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Commerce%20Examines%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Commerce%20Examines%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Examines%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Uncategorized **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, #infrastructurenow #infrastructurein2019 #9dollarsaday, infrastructure investment, investment, ports, rail transportation, surface transportation, technology, transportation --- ### [Northeast Ohio Infrastructure Gets “D+”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/northeast-ohio-infrastructure-gets-d/) **Published:** February 20, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2FNEO-400x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Northeast Ohio Infrastructure Gets “D+”![Panel of officials seated at a long U-shaped conference table in a regional planning meeting, with monitors and attendees nearby, including flags in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NEO-400x300.jpg "NEO")** The Cleveland Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) today released its *[2019 Report Card for Northeast Ohio’s Infrastructure,](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NOH-Infrastructure-ReportCard-Brochure.pdf)* grading seven categories of the region’s infrastructure, resulting in an overall grade point average of “D+” – which is the same overall grade the nation received in the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* Overall, the region’s infrastructure is in poor to fair condition, with many elements approaching the end of their service life. Civil engineers examined the state’s bridges (C-), dams (D+), drinking water (C-), energy (D), roads (D+), schools (D), and wastewater (D+). The Report Card was released at a press conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Guest speakers included Grace Gallucci, Executive Director of the Northeast Ohio Area Coordinating Agency; Michael Dever, the Director of Cuyahoga County Public Works; and Kyle Dreyfuss-Wells, the CEO of the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District. U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) gave video remarks. Lake Erie, a major source of the region’s drinking water, also provides residents with recreation opportunities and influences the region’s climate. Drinking water (“C-”) received one of the highest grades, as quality in the region is high, which is keeping par with standards across the United States. However, population decline is impacting the region’s water infrastructure, as a decline in consumption is contributing to less revenue available to reinvest in the water system. The region’s population has not increased in over a decade. This impact means that there are fewer rate payers to support an aging infrastructure network. Wastewater (D+) was one of the lower scoring categories in the 2019 Report Card. Much of the region’s wastewater infrastructure is aging, and approximately 25 percent of the sewer pipes in NEO are over 80 years old. There are over 5,000 miles of underground pipes, connecting homes and businesses to 45 publicly-owned wastewater treatment plants. On a dry day, capacity in the system is double the average daily volume generated. In Cuyahoga County, the report estimates that by 2040, the population will decrease by 13 percent, while surrounding counties will increase by seven percent. This outward migration may cause additional stress on existing rural and urban wastewater infrastructure. Additionally, many of Northeast Ohio’s septic systems require attention and approximately 39 percent of these septic systems are considered failing. Energy and schools, each taking home the lowest grade of a “D” in the Report Card demonstrates the urgency to modernize the region’s infrastructure. One third of energy consumed in the region is generated outside the region, and the region’s aging distribution networks built in times of population expansion prior the 1960s require continuous care and improvement. Estimates by the Cleveland Section of ASCE suggest that about half of the schools in the region have not undergone significant renovations over the past 40 years. The report also finds the resiliency of school buildings concerning. 91 percent of school buildings are designated to serve as emergency shelters, but most do not have backup power systems and are not constructed to withstand natural disasters common to Ohio. NEO roads (“D+”) are seeing an uptick in traffic accidents. Notably, the report finds that road safety is of concern and requires attention. In 2017, there were 49,973 traffic accidents in the five-county region, including 166 fatalities. Additionally, the region faces a funding shortfall issue, particularly to address its future needs. Infrastructure challenges continue to limit the number of bridges which can be repaired or replaced as well as road maintenance. The Report Card also offers solutions raise NEO’s grade: - Increase the state gas and diesel taxes to pay for necessary road and bridge projects and ensure local governments receive adequate disbursements to maintain local surface transportation infrastructure. Ohio’s fuel taxes have not been increased since 2005. - Make NEO more economically competitive by increasing investment in infrastructure across all sectors. Robust, sustained investment in our water and wastewater systems, energy grid, dams, roadways and more could slow the population decline. - Invest in school facilities and train tomorrow’s workforce. Sufficient funding is required to repair and replace school facilities as the region prepares for its future. - Raise awareness of the true cost of wastewater treatment. Utilize education programs to demonstrate wastewater infrastructure’s impact on Clean Water with implementation of programs to provide rate payers sense of ownership over wastewater infrastructure. A full copy of the *2019 Report Card for Northeast Ohio’s Infrastructure* is available at [InfrastructureReportCard.org/NortheastOhio.](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/NortheastOhio) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2FNEO-400x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2FNEO-400x300.jpg&description=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Northeast%20Ohio%20Infrastructure%20Gets%20%E2%80%9CD%2B%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, National Category, News, Ohio, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Schools, Wastewater **Tags:** #9DollarsADay, #infrastructurenow, #NEO, ASCE --- ### [ASCE 2019 President Robin A. Kemper Testifies to Congress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-2019-president-robin-a-kemper-testifies-to-congress/) **Published:** February 27, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2FRobin-Kemper-2.26.19-2-400x204.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F02%2FRobin-Kemper-2.26.19-2-400x204.jpg&description=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%202019%20President%20Robin%20A.%20Kemper%20Testifies%20to%20Congress&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, ASCE 2019 President Robin A. Kemper, P.E., LEED AP, F.SEI, F.ASCE testified at a [House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies hearing](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/hearings/public-witness-hearing) regarding Fiscal Year 2020 funding. President Kemper testified on the importance of [strategic, robust, and sustained investments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/) that must be made quickly through long-term, reliable federal funding, as well as through the utilization of [financing mechanisms](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/congress-begins-wrda-2018-discussions/), if we hope to close the nation’s [$2 trillion and growing funding gap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/) and restore America’s world-class infrastructure. ![Professionals in suits seated around a long conference table with microphones and documents in a formal meeting room](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Robin-Kemper-2.26.19-2-400x204.jpg "Robin Kemper 2.26.19 - 2") [In her testimony](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ASCE-President-Robin-A.-Kemper_Written-Testimony_House-Appropriations_2.26.19_FINAL.pdf), President Kemper urged the Subcommittee to: - renew the federal government’s commitment to drinking water and wastewater infrastructure by tripling the amount of annual appropriations to the [Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/); providing $1 million for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) [Drinking Water](https://www.epa.gov/drinkingwatersrf/epas-6th-drinking-water-infrastructure-needs-survey-and-assessment) and [Clean Watersheds Needs Surveys](https://www.epa.gov/cwns); fully funding the [Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA) program at](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/) no less than the FY19 enacted level of $68 million; and fully funding the [Securing Required Funding for Water Infrastructure Now (SRF WIN) Act program](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wrda-2018-signed-into-law/) at its $5 million authorization in FY20. - provide at least $2 billion in FY20 to address the [National Park Service’s $12 billion deferred maintenance backlog;](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-supports-national-park-service-deferred-maintenance-backlog-legislation/) and - fully fund the U.S. Geological Survey’s (USGS) [National Earthquake Hazards Reduction (NEHRP)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/president-signs-earthquake-program-reauthorization/) program at $75 million and the agency’s streamgaging program at $100.5 million in FY20. The projects funded by these programs have already proven to be successful; providing more funding to existing programs rather than creating new programs will reduce overhead costs and startup time while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across our nation’s infrastructure systems. ASCE looks forward to continuing to work with the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment and Related Agencies – and all of Congress – to find ways to improve America’s infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Subcommittee%20Examines%20Intermodal%20Connections&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, the [U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/surfacetransportationandmerchantmarineinfrastructuresafetyandsecurity) examined current multimodal transportation market and infrastructure, stakeholder needs, and Congress’ role in supporting multimodal freight movement as part of a surface transportation reauthorization. Committee Members heard from industry stakeholders on shared concerns, primarily focusing on the need for more revenue and financing opportunities. During “[Connecting America: Examining Intermodal Connections Across Our Surface Transportation Network](https://www.commerce.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/hearings?ID=70045423-7821-4C2C-98C5-F3010FDD99B7),” witnesses provided testimony on the various infrastructure and safety concerns under the committee’s jurisdiction, and ways to improve our intermodal system as we begin to reauthorize the FAST Act. The following people testified: - Chuck Baker, President of the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association - Noel Hacegaba, Deputy Executive Director of Administration and Operations for the Port of Long Beach, representing the Intermodal Association of North America - Donna Lemm, Executive Vice President of MC Companies, representing the Agriculture Transportation Coalition - Joseph C. Szabo, Executive Director of Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, representing the Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors Subcommittee Chairwoman Deb Fischer (R-NE) began the hearing by citing [ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card overall grade of a “D+.”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) Despite this poor grade, the stress on our intermodal system remains high as the global marketplace continues to grow. The Chairwoman also highlighted additional issues impacting the intermodal system including congestion and access. The committee was excited for the opportunity to address these key concerns. All part of the Subcommittee’s continued legislative push on Capitol Hill aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation, this discussion allowed lawmakers to hear how our integrated infrastructure system remains fluid. The discussion also emphasized the need to ensure this vital component can continue to make our nation competitive in a 21st century marketplace. ASCE’s government relations team is staying actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Senate%20Commerce%20Subcommittee%20Examines%20Intermodal%20Connections&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Senate%20Commerce%20Subcommittee%20Examines%20Intermodal%20Connections "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Senate%20Commerce%20Subcommittee%20Examines%20Intermodal%20Connections&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, #infrastructurenow, economy, FAST Act, freight, infrastructure investment, investment, ports, rail transportation --- ### [House Transportation Examines Climate Change and Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-examines-climate-change-and-infrastructure/) **Published:** February 27, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Climate%20Change%20and%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")On Tuesday, the [U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/examining-how-federal-infrastructure-policy-could-help-mitigate-and-adapt-to-climate-change) examined the role the transportation sector plays in climate change, which included the dual track approach of mitigation and [resiliency](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-500---resilient-infrastructure/). Committee Members heard from individuals in the public and private sectors on ways to reduce carbon emissions and building resilient infrastructure. At this hearing, “[Examining How Federal Infrastructure Policy Could Help Mitigate and Adapt to Climate Change](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/examining-how-federal-infrastructure-policy-could-help-mitigate-and-adapt-to-climate-change),” witnesses provided testimony on the effects of infrastructure policy on climate and the environment. The following people testified: - Daniel Sperling, Board Member of the California Air Resources Board - Vicki Arroyo, Executive Director of the Georgetown Climate Center - Professor Thomas P. Lyon, Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan - Ben Prochazka, Vice President of Electrification Coalition - Kevin DeGood, Director of Infrastructure Policy at the Center for American Progress - James M. Proctor II, Senior Vice President and General Counsel at McWane Inc. - Whitley Saumweber, Director of the Stephenson Ocean Security Project at the Center for Strategic and International Studies - Lynn Scarlett, Vice President of Policy and Government Affairs at The Nature Conservancy - Nancy Young, Vice President of Environmental Affairs at the Airlines for America Committee Vice Chair Salud Carbajal (D-CA24), acting on behalf of Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR4), began the hearing by [stating](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/chairman-defazio-statement-from-hearing-on-examining-how-federal-infrastructure-policy-could-help-mitigate-and-adapt-to-climate-change), “Today we bring the full committee together for our second hearing of the year, to examine how Federal infrastructure policy could help mitigate and adapt to climate change. The transportation sector is now the largest contributor to global warming in the U.S. Within the transportation sector, passenger and freight vehicles contribute 83 percent of global warming emissions. I intend to respond appropriately to this challenge as we move legislation and direct investment to transportation activities this Congress.” Much of the buzz on Capitol Hill has been infrastructure related, which has spurred hearings, discussions, and meetings as a part of a legislative push aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. The House Transportation Committee continued the conversation around this legislative push on an often overlooked component of infrastructure investment. ASCE has long recognized the impact our environment and [climate change](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-360---impact-of-climate-change/) plays within our infrastructure system. As these impacts continue to put strain on our infrastructure system, ASCE will remain active in supporting these critical issues. ASCE’s government relations team is actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Climate%20Change%20and%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Climate%20Change%20and%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Climate%20Change%20and%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** #infrastructurematters, #infrastructurenow, climate change, green infrastructure, infrastructure investment, investment, life cycle costs, resilience, transportation --- ### [New Airport Infrastructure Report Released](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-airport-infrastructure-report-released/) **Published:** March 1, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Released&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Released "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Report%20Released&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")This week, the [Airports Council International-North America](https://airportscouncil.org/) (ACI-NA), an ASCE advocacy partner through the [Beyond the Runway Coalition](https://airportscouncil.org/advocacy/beyondtherunway/), released a report entitled “[Terminally Challenged: Addressing the Infrastructure Funding Shortfall of America’s Airports](https://airportscouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/2019TerminallyChallenged-Web-Final.pdf).” The report’s findings support conclusions made in *ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card*, and stressed the need for continued leadership and investment. The report stated that 1.7 billion passengers and 31.7 million metric tons of cargo traveled through U.S. airports in 2017. Our nation’s airports had a national economic impact of $1.4 trillion and contributed more than seven percent to the U.S. gross domestic product, while supporting over 11.5 million jobs around the country. Despite the important role our aviation infrastructure has in the national economy, our outdated aviation infrastructure is not keeping pace with the demand, which has resulted in too many overcrowded and cramped airports around the country. Our nation’s airports are facing nearly $130 billion in new infrastructure needs across the aviation system and a debt burden of $91.6 billion from past projects. This report asserts that our nation’s airports require making up those infrastructure upgrades of nearly $130 billion by 2023, or $26 billion per year, with more than 56 percent of the needs inside our aging terminals. By making these upgrades and rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure, we can improve passenger experience for millions of travelers. On the heels of ACI-NA’s report release, ASCE President Robin A. Kemper said, “The American Society of Civil Engineers gave our nation’s airports a “[D](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/)” in the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* because of increasing congestion and underinvestment in our aviation infrastructure assets. Our nation’s aviation industry is technologically advanced and has economically efficient aircraft, but airport infrastructure and air traffic control systems are not keeping up. Airport traffic is increasing – it is expected that 24 out of the top 30 major airports may soon experience “Thanksgiving-peak traffic volume” at least once a week. ASCE urges Congress to take action on improving and modernizing our nation’s airport infrastructure.” In order to raise our aviation grade and combat the findings of ACI-NA’s report, we must take serious steps to invest in our nation’s aviation system. ASCE urges Congress to support increased funding for the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which is a major airport infrastructure investment program of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that provides grants to the nation’s airports for capital projects such as runways, taxiways, and major facilities; and Passenger Facilities Charges (PFC), which are fees that an airport levees on each passenger enplaning at their commercial airport for infrastructure improvements. As Congress seeks to find solutions to improve our aviation infrastructure, ASCE continues to encourage lawmakers to increase funding for the AIP to $4.35 billion and raise or eliminate the cap on the PFC in order to modernize our aviation system for the 21st century. 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locations with VOC, Safety, Congestion costs and a total per location; Alabama statewide total .3 Billion appears at bottom.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/AL_Statewide_Transportation_by_the_Numbers_TRIP_Release_Chart_02-25-2019-400x148.png "AL_Statewide_Transportation_by_the_Numbers_TRIP_Release_Chart_02-25-2019")The national transportation research group [TRIP](http://www.tripnet.org/) released a new report on February 26, 2019, stating that deteriorated roads and bridges, congestion, and lack of desirable safety features are costing Alabama motorists $5.3 billion per year in extra vehicle operating costs, which is about $1,846 per driver, due to the cost of lost time waiting in traffic, wasted fuel due to congestion, and the financial cost of traffic crashes. The report, [“Alabama Transportation by the Numbers: Meeting the State’s Need for Safe, Smooth and Efficient Mobility”](http://www.tripnet.org/docs/AL_Transportation_by_the_Numbers_TRIP_Report_February_2019.pdf) finds that 30 percent of major roads and highways in Alabama are in poor or mediocre condition. 14 percent of locally and state-maintained roads are in poor condition and 16 percent are in mediocre condition, which costs Alabamians an additional $2 billion each year in extra vehicle operating costs (tire wear and tear, increased fuel consumption, repair costs, and accelerated vehicle depreciation). In urban areas, drivers lose up to $990 and nearly one full work week per year sitting in congestion. Additionally, seven percent of Alabama’s bridges are structurally deficient, which means there is significant deterioration of the bridge deck, supports, or other major components. Most bridges are designed to last 50 years before any major overhaul or replacement work and in Alabama, nearly half (49 percent) of the state’s bridges were built in 1969 or earlier. The report recommends performing routine maintenance such as resurfacing decks, painting surfaces, insuring facilities have good drainage, and replacing any components that are deteriorating. However, most bridges in the state will eventually require costly reconstruction or restoration to remain operable. Alabama’s transportation system contributes to the health and growth of the state’s economy. $432 billion in goods are shipped to, from, and within sites in the state. Increases in passenger and freight movement will continue to place burdens on the state’s deteriorated and congested roads and bridges. Furthermore, the state’s 18 cents-per-gallon fuel tax, which has not been raised since 1992, has been more than cut in half by inflation and increased fuel economy. The majority of Alabama’s transportation budget is only devoted to preserving the existing system – which leaves only $150 million available each year for new projects to address congestion or expand the system to accommodate growth in population and travel, as well as promote economic development. The report argues that as Alabama works to enhance its thriving, growing, and dynamic state, it is critical that the state address the most significant transportation issues by providing a 21st century network of roads, bridges, and other transportation networks that can accommodate the high mobility demands of a modern society. The state must modernize its surface transportation system by improving the physical condition of its transportation network and ensure that it provides efficient, safe, and reliable mobility for residents, tourists, and businesses. Making these needed improvements will provide a significant boost to the economy. Moreover, local and state transportation funding is needed to improve numerous transportation projects, or else the state will not be able to improve the condition and efficiency of tits transportation system, or even enhance economic development opportunities and quality of life. ASCE released the last [Alabama Infrastructure Report Card ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alabama/)in 2015, giving the state a grade of C-, with bridges and roads at a C- and D+, respectively. One recommendation ASCE gave was to invest in Alabama’s future by rebuilding the oldest and most deficient infrastructure. Let’s hope this report sheds light on the importance of modernizing Alabama’s transportation infrastructure, which will grow the economy and save Alabama motorists time and money. 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Alabama, Bridges, National Category, News, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #infrastructurenow, Alabama, bridges, invest, roads, transportation --- ### [Civil Engineers Give Hawai‘i’s Infrastructure a D+ on First Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-give-the-hawaiis-infrastructure-a-d-on-first-report-card/) **Published:** March 7, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Today, the [Hawai‘i Section ](http://www.ascehawaii.org/)of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) released the inaugural [*2019 Report Card for Hawai‘i’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/hawaii/), grading 11 categories of the region’s infrastructure, resulting in an overall grade point average of “D+.” The state’s roadways are among the most congested in the nation, and there is a $23 billion transportation infrastructure funding gap over the next 20 years. Overall, the region’s infrastructure is in poor to fair condition, with many elements approaching the end of their service life. Civil engineers examined the state’s aviation (C-), bridges (C+), coastal areas (C-), dams (D), drinking water (D+), energy (C-), roads (D+), schools (D+), solid waste (C), stormwater (D-) and wastewater (D+). The Report Card was released at a press conference hosted by Hawai‘i Lieutenant Governor (Lt. Gov.) Josh Green at the Hawai‘i State Capitol in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. Lt. Gov. Green stressed the urgency of acting now to invest in the state’s infrastructure for the good people of Hawai‘i. ASCE President Robin A. Kemper gave remarks on the [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and the need to modernize the nation’s infrastructure. Stormwater received the lowest grade in the Report Card, sitting at a “D-.” The state has experienced an increase in extreme flooding caused by high tides, storm surges, hurricanes, tsunamis and sea level rise. This flooding not only harms housing and infrastructure, but it also causes pollutants, trash and debris to enter Hawai‘i’s water resources. Additionally, lack of funding and aging assets for the state’s drinking water and wastewater systems are concerning. Some of Hawai‘i’s drinking water and wastewater systems are plagued by infiltration of saline groundwater and exhibit funding gaps when it comes to available revenue versus total needs. Water main breaks, flood water damage, loss of property from coastal erosion and beach and park closures from brown water advisories are all results of deteriorating infrastructure. With much of Hawai‘i’s population located along the coastline, the resiliency of the wastewater infrastructure in coping with sea level rise and increasing severity of storm events is extremely critical. There are also positives when it comes to Hawai‘i’s infrastructure. The state leads the nation in both residential solar power generated per household and is third in solar photovoltaic capacity installed. However, because the island geography is unique and sits in an isolated location, there are unique challenges for the state’s energy infrastructure. Hawai‘i currently has the highest electricity cost per kilowatt hour in the nation— approximately 2.5 times the national average. To bring costs down and better protect the environment, Hawai‘i aims to generate 100 percent of electricity with renewable sources by 2045. School infrastructure is also worrisome for the state. Hawai‘i’s public school facilities are challenged by population growth and a lack of adequate funding. As of 2017, the average age of the schools overseen by the Hawai‘i Department of Education (HIDOE) was 62 years old, while 53 buildings were over 100 years old. When a facility is beyond its useful life, higher maintenance and repair costs are anticipated. In order to raise the state’s grade for the next assessment, the Report Card offers short- and long-term solutions: - Fund short and long-term strategies to address the impacts of sea-level rise and other natural disasters and weather events. In the short term, education regarding beach nourishment is needed and funding should be identified and directed toward shoreline protection projects. In the long term, the state should prioritize funding to address the impacts of sea level rise on Hawai‘i’s existing infrastructure. - The state legislature should increase the state gas tax and support innovative funding mechanisms. - Significant funding for engineering investigations, repairs and maintenance are necessary to help Hawai‘i’s dams meet current safety standards and minimize the risk to downstream communities and the general public. - Rates for both drinking water and wastewater utilities should reflect the true cost of service and Hawai‘ian communities should leverage available loan and grant programs to ensure public safety and the environment is protected. - Take advantage of new laws in place that allow stormwater to be recognized as a utility and further develop county stormwater fees. These fees can help pay for the retrofitting of flood control infrastructure and water quality improvement projects. A full copy of the 2019 Report Card for Hawai‘i’s Infrastructure is available at [InfrastructureReportCard.org/Hawai‘i](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/hawaii/). 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**Tags:** #infrastructurenow, Hawaii, infrastructure, resilience --- ### [ASCE Members Take Infrastructure Investment Message to Congress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-members-take-infrastructure-investment-message-to-congress/) **Published:** March 15, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Armed with everyday civil engineering experiences, issues briefings from the ASCE Government Relations team, and insight from keynote speakers, Fly-In attendees met with over 330 congressional offices on Wednesday afternoon. They advocated for a 25-cent per gallon motor fuels tax increase to help fix the Highway Trust Fund, fully appropriating key infrastructure programs in FY2020, and urged Members of Congress to follow ASCE’s Principles for Investment as they draft a bipartisan infrastructure bill. Prior to educating Capitol Hill on the importance of and urgent need for infrastructure investment, ASCE members received advocacy tips and tools from notable guests. During Tuesday’s programs members heard from Brad Fitch, CEO of the Congressional Management Foundation and Senator Tom Carper (D-DE), while Neil Pedersen, Executive Director of the Transportation Research Board shared details from their latest study “[Renewing the National Commitment to the Interstate Highway System](https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25334/renewing-the-national-commitment-to-the-interstate-highway-system-a-foundation-for-the-future).” During Wednesday’s advocacy session, Representatives Earl Blumenauer (D-OR) and Rodney Davis (R-IL) provided insights on what legislators hope to hear from constituents and the current status of a federal infrastructure package before heading out to make visits to Members of Congress. You can check out pictures and see what attendees had to say by using #ASCE2DC on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20Take%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20Message%20to%20Congress&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, fly-in, infrastructure investment, key contact program --- ### [ASCE Testifies on Resilient Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-testifies-on-resilient-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 15, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Development, and Related Agencies held a stakeholder’s perspective hearing on building more resilient infrastructure. This Subcommittee determines how federal dollars are allocated for each of these issue areas. ASCE Board of Direction Member, Carol Haddock, P.E., testified alongside Laura Lightbody, Project Director for Flood-Prepared Communities at Pew Charitable Trusts; Franklin Moon, Ph.D., Professor, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Rutgers University; and Jennifer Raitt, Director of Planning and Community Development at the Town of Arlington, MA. The hearing, “[Building Resilient Communities](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/hearings/stakeholder-perspectives-building-resilient-communities),” began with Chairman David Price (D-NC, 4th District) laying the groundwork of how appropriators must think about building our infrastructure: “We need to incorporate resiliency into these so-called “base” programs and build smarter from the start—moving toward a proactive posture when it comes to strategic, capital, and operations planning at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) agencies. Congress has taken some initial steps in this direction. The MAP-21 highway reauthorization from 2012 required states and localities to incorporate asset management into their long-range planning. Meanwhile, several modest pilot programs to assist states and other grantees with resiliency planning are winding down. Finally, we need to understand that building resilient communities isn’t just about storm-proofing; it’s also a potential catalyst for job creation, economic development, sustainable growth, and the wise stewardship of taxpayer dollars.” In her [testimony](https://docs.house.gov/meetings/AP/AP20/20190313/109079/HHRG-116-AP20-Wstate-HaddockC-20190313.pdf), Ms. Haddock highlighted the findings of ASCE’s*[ 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) and [Failure to Act: Closing the Infrastructure Investment Gap for America’s Economic Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/ASCE-Failure-to-Act-2016-FINAL.pdf).* She also addressed the need to build our infrastructure more resiliently; support mitigation efforts such as the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS); support appropriate use of Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) principles in the planning and design processes to evaluate the total cost of projects; support the development, adoption, and enforcement of a national model building codes; and match increased funding with robust research and development (R&D) programs. This week’s hearing continued the legislative push on Capitol Hill aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. This discussion allowed the lawmakers in charge of allocating and spending money to hear how we can better use limited revenue resources to better improve our infrastructure’s life-span under current conditions. The discussion also emphasized the need to ensure how this vital component will keep our nation competitive in a 21st century marketplace. ASCE is staying actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [ASCE urges all infrastructure stakeholders to reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Testifies%20on%20Resilient%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Testifies%20on%20Resilient%20Infrastructure "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Testifies%20on%20Resilient%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, Transit **Tags:** #ReportCard, 116th congress, 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, failure to act, resilience, resiliency --- ### [House Transportation Examines Critical Airport Infrastructure Needs](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-transportation-examines-critical-airport-infrastructure-needs/) **Published:** March 26, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Critical%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Needs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Critical%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Needs "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Critical%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Needs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Much of the buzz on Capitol Hill has been infrastructure-related, which has spurred hearings, discussions, and meetings as a part of a legislative push aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. The House Transportation Committee continued the conversation around this legislative push on a critical component of infrastructure investment that keeps our nation connected – our nation’s airports. On Tuesday, the [U.S. House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/examining-how-federal-infrastructure-policy-could-help-mitigate-and-adapt-to-climate-change) examined the state of our nation’s airports as well as solutions to fix chronic underinvestment. Committee Members heard from individuals all facets of the aviation industry. At this hearing, “[The Cost of Doing Nothing: Why Investment in our Nation’s Airports Matters](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/the-cost-of-doing-nothing-why-investment-in-our-nations-airports-matters),” witnesses provided testimony on the effects of underinvestment on our nation’s aviation infrastructure. The following people testified: - Tori Barnes, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs for the U.S. Travel Association - Ted Christie, CEO and President of Spirit Airlines, Inc. - Lawrence J. Krauter, A.A.E., AICP, Chief Executive Officer of Spokane International Airport - Joe Lopano, CEO of Tampa International Airport - Candace S. McGraw, CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport - Marc Scribner, Senior Fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute At the hearing, Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR4)[ stated](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/chair-defazio-statement-from-hearing-on-the-cost-of-doing-nothing-why-investment-in-our-nations-airports-matters): “Crippling congestion has become the norm in our country. And it is not just on roads. This congestion is affecting air travel in the United States as well, with terminals clogged with passengers; runways and taxiways needing additions and rehabilitation; and airplanes sitting on tarmacs across the country waiting for gates. There is no question that Members of this Committee who fly each week to Washington experience these issues. So what is the solution? What can Congress do to solve these rising capital needs? I am surely not opposed to increasing the FAA’s Federal AIP grant levels. But for starters, we can increase the cap on the passenger facility charge (PFC).” In ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/),* our nation’s airports earned a “[D](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/)” due to a lack of investment in our aviation infrastructure assets. Airports are struggling to keep up with investment needs, creating a $42 billion 10-year funding gap, because of an outdated, federally mandated cap on how much airports can charge passengers for facility expansion and renovation. Raising or eliminating the cap on the PFC will allow airports a much-needed revenue boost and the ability for long-term planning and modernizing of our aviation system for the 21st century. ASCE has long [supported](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/federal-aviation-administration-faa-reauthorization-moves-forward/) increasing the PFC and will continue to advocate for stronger airport investment. ASCE’s government relations team is actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Critical%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Needs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Transportation%20Examines%20Critical%20Airport%20Infrastructure%20Needs "Share on 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These hearings gave Alaskans the opportunity to respond to Gov. Mike Dunleavy’s proposed budget, which included deep cuts in areas from healthcare to the Alaska Marine Highway System, which received a “D” on the *[2017 Alaska Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alaska/).* Alaska’s entire infrastructure received a “C-.” David Gamez, P.E. testified in Anchorage, Tor Anderzen, P.E. testified in Wasilla, and Carl Uchytil, P.E. testified in Juneau. In Montana, the ASCE Montana Section testified this week before the Montana House Fish, Wildlife and Parks Committee in opposition to HB 674, which would move additional gas tax revenues to recreational snowmobile education, safety and enforcement. ASCE opposes this action because it diverts much-needed funds for infrastructure. The Committee tabled the bill once the hearing ended. The testimony referenced *the [2018 Report Card for Montana’s Infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/montana/),* which gave the state’s roads a “C-”and the state’s overall infrastructure systems a “C,” noting Montana is thriving from economic growth, a successful tourism industry, and grassroots entrepreneurship and we must invest in our infrastructure in order to meet the needs the state. 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Members%20in%20Alaska%20and%20Montana%20Testify%20on%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alaska, Montana, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** advocacy, ASCE, infrastructure, state report cards --- ### [New Bridge Data Supports C+ Report Card Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-bridge-data-supports-c-report-card-grade/) **Published:** April 3, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) released its Bridge Report based on the data in the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) 2018 National Bridge Inventory database. ARTBA’s Bridge Report confirms the [“C+”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridges-Final.pdf) grade given in ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/2017-IRC-Executive-Summary-FINAL-FINAL.pdf).* Both reports illustrate that while the overall number of bridges deemed structurally deficient is decreasing, a significant amount of work remains as many of the nation’s bridges are approaching the end of their design life. Key ARTBA Bridge Report highlights include: - 47,052 out of the nation’s 616,087, or 7.6%, bridges are rated “structurally deficient” and need urgent repairs. In 2016, 56,007 out of the nation’s 614,387, or 9.1%, of our bridges were rated structurally deficient. The Infrastructure Report Card noted the trend that the number of structurally deficient bridges was decreasing steadily. - The nation’s 47,052 structurally deficient bridges are crossed 178 million times a day. - The average age of a structurally deficient bridge is 62 years and for a non-deficient bridge, the average age is 40 years, illuminating the point that many bridges are beyond their useful life. - 235,020, or 38%, of our nation’s bridges have identified repair needs. - 18,842, or one in three, interstate highway bridges have identified repair needs. The states with the most structurally deficient bridges, as a percent of their total bridge inventory, are Rhode Island (23%); West Virginia (19.8%); Iowa (19.3%); South Dakota (16.7%); Pennsylvania (16.5%); Maine (13.1%); Louisiana (13%); Puerto Rico (11.7%); Oklahoma (10.9%); and North Dakota (10.7%). States with the largest number of structurally deficient bridges are Iowa (4,675 bridges); Pennsylvania (3,770); Oklahoma (2,540); Illinois (2,273); Missouri (2,116); North Carolina (1,871); California (1,812); New York (1,757); Louisiana (1,678); and Mississippi (1,603). The subpar condition of our bridges is a result of an inability to properly fund our current bridge needs, with the most recent estimate putting our nation’s backlog of bridge rehabilitation needs at $123 billion. ASCE recommends that if we want to raise our bridge grade from a “C+”, we must: - Fix the federal Highway Trust Fund by raising the federal motor fuels tax by 25 cents. States must ensure their funding mechanisms (motor fuels taxes or other) are sufficient to fund needed investment in bridges. - Increase funding from all levels of government to continue reducing the number of structurally deficient bridges, decrease the maintenance backlog, and address the large number of bridges that have passed or are approaching the end of their design life. - Have bridge owners consider the costs across a bridge’s entire lifecycle to make smart design decisions and prioritize maintenance and rehabilitation - States should ensure their funding mechanisms (motor fuels taxes or other) are sufficient to fund needed investment in bridges. - States and the federal government should consider long-term funding solutions for transportation infrastructure and potential alternatives to the motor fuel taxes, including further study and piloting of mileage-based user fees. As the legislative push continues on Capitol Hill, ASCE’s government relations team remains actively engaged. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Bridge%20Data%20Supports%20C%2B%20Report%20Card%20Grade&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, #HighwayTrustFund, bridges, infrastructure investment, surface transportation --- ### [Report Reexamines Connected/ Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) and Public Policy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-reexamines-connected-autonomous-vehicles-cav-and-public-policy/) **Published:** April 3, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** 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email")](mailto:?subject=Report%20Reexamines%20Connected%2F%20Autonomous%20Vehicles%20%28CAV%29%20and%20Public%20Policy&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")It’s no April Fools’ Joke – technology is literally driving how people and goods move and automated vehicles are gaining more traction in the public policy world. On April 1st, Eno Center for Transportation released a report entitled, “[Beyond Speculation 2.0: Automated Vehicles and Public Policy](https://www.enotrans.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/4-1-AV-Paper-FINAL-with-Cover.pdf?x58418).” This report updates the Center’s 2017 report entitled, “[Beyond Speculation: Automated Vehicles and Public Policy](https://www.enotrans.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/AV_FINAL-1.pdf?x58418),” and delves into the current and future state of connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) as well as the current, proposed, and expected implication for federal, state, and local policy. The overarching goal is to provide an overview of the current policy area and provide substantive recommendations for policymakers to test and deploy CAVs on our nation’s public roadways. The report determines that the primary goal of CAV federal and state policy should be to ensure public safety, provide consistent framework for developers, and create an environment where rules can adapt to an unknown future. All levels of government must take a performance-based approach, as CAVs are still in the development phase, instead of imposing rigid technical guidelines. Federal actors have a visible role in regulating the safety of CAV driving systems, while state and local governments have more flexibility in areas they have traditionally managed, including roadway design, rules, and licensing. According to this report, technology has always been an agent of change. CAV technology will continue to rapidly alter the transportation landscape with ever-changing implications for society. As CAV development progresses, appropriate public policies are critical to managing the safe and efficient deployment with innovative and measured action currently needed to lay future groundwork. In ASCE’s 2017 *[Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/),* our nation’s infrastructure earned a cumulative grade of a “D+,” and states that infrastructure challenges remain significant, but solvable. We are able to address our infrastructure deficit through strategic and sustained investment, bold leadership, thoughtful planning, and careful preparation for the needs of the future. As we seek out opportunities to rebuild our existing infrastructure system, it is imperative that we courage the use of ever-changing CAV technology as viable alternatives to help increase capacity, enhance existing transportation infrastructure and improve safety. ASCE’s government relations team has stayed actively engaged in this growing field through our [public policy development](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-548---connected-and-autonomous-vehicles/), and submitting public comments on CAV development and communications. As this technology quickly develops, we will remain actively engaged to ensure the needs of the profession are effectively represented in this growing, ever-changing technology. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Report%20Reexamines%20Connected%2F%20Autonomous%20Vehicles%20%28CAV%29%20and%20Public%20Policy&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category **Tags:** road safety, roads, safety, surface transportation, technology --- ### [Ohio Legislature Reaches Agreement on Gas Tax Increase](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ohio-legislature-reaches-agreement-on-gas-tax-increase/) **Published:** April 4, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Ohio%20Legislature%20Reaches%20Agreement%20on%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F04%2FOhio-roads--400x300.jpg&description=Ohio%20Legislature%20Reaches%20Agreement%20on%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase "Pin it with 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signs, thanks to the![Downtown skyline seen from a busy highway with multiple lanes and cars on the road under a blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Ohio-roads--400x300.jpg "Ohio roads") recently passed Ohio gas tax increase. This small increase, which will cost the average Ohio driver less than $55 a year (depending on driving habits), is roughly equivalent to what one might spend on a daily cup of coffee for a couple of months. This week, Ohio House and Senate Republicans agreed to increase Ohio’s 28-cent gas tax to 38.5 cents. The state’s tax on diesel fuel will increase by 19 cents, to 47 cents a gallon, and is set to take effect July 1. The legislation is expected to generate about $865 million more per year for road and bridge projects, fixing Ohio’s deteriorating roads and making the state’s bridges safer. This revenue will be split 55/45 between state and local government. The last time Ohio’s fuel taxes were increased was 2005. The final amount is less than Governor Mike DeWine’s proposed 18-cent tax increase on gas, but higher than the 6-cent increase the Senate passed last[ month](https://www.dispatch.com/news/20190402/ohio-legislature-approves-105-cent-gas-tax-increase-19-cents-for-diesel). However, the Governor is supportive of the compromise. Lawmakers missed Sunday evening’s deadline to approve a transportation budget, but this gas tax compromise ended multiple days of negotiations among legislative leaders and the Governor – then moving quickly through the House and Senate. Driving on roads in need of repair in Ohio costs each driver [$475 per year, far more than the $55 cost of the gas tax increase, and 6.9% of bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/ohio/) are rated structurally deficient. In February, ASCE released the [*Report Card for Northeast Ohio’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/northeastohio/), which received a “D+,” meaning the region’s infrastructure is in poor condition. One of the recommendations was to increase the state gas and diesel taxes to pay for necessary road and bridge projects and ensure local governments receive adequate disbursements to maintain local surface transportation infrastructure. ASCE’s Ohio Council worked closely with [Fix Our Roads Ohio](https://fixourroadsohio.com/), and ASCE members are now encouraged to [contact their legislators](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=497280) to thank them for committing to this additional investment in Ohio’s infrastructure. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Ohio%20Legislature%20Reaches%20Agreement%20on%20Gas%20Tax%20Increase&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, National Category, News, Ohio, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** bridges, gas tax, infrastructure, Ohio, roads --- ### [Voters Are Thirsty for Better Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/voters-attitudes-towards-good-water-infrastructure-decline/) **Published:** April 4, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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in 2016 to 49% in 2019: 59% stated water infrastructure was good in 2016 and in 2019, 49%, which is a sharp decrease. Additionally, 74% of American voters are extremely concerned about chemicals and pollutants in the tap. Cities such as Flint, Michigan were some of the first skeptics of wa![Infographic of support by issue: infrastructure 79%, defense 56%, Dreamers 53%, Obamacare repeal 39%, border wall 35%](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/water-400x259.png "water")ter infrastructure, causing other communities to evaluate and question the quality and condition of their own drinking water infrastructure. As the need for capital water infrastructure improvements continue to rise, local communities’ water infrastructure is at risk. Most voters are willing to pay for more improved water service but argue that the federal government should step up and address this issue. The [Value of Water Campaign](http://www.thevalueofwater.org/), of which ASCE is a partner, released its [Fourth Annual Value of Water Index](http://thevalueofwater.org/sites/default/files/2019%20VOW%20National%20Poll%20Release%20PPT%20-%20Abridged%20-%20FOR%20PUBLIC%20USE.pdf) poll on April 1st. This poll found that there is bipartisan support for water infrastructure investment: 85% of American voters support (with 52% strongly supporting) increasing federal water infrastructure investment. Echoing the bipartisanship emphasized in addressing our nation’s water infrastructure needs, this poll also discovered that more than three in four Democrats and Republicans agree that rebuilding America’s infrastructure should be a top priority for the President and Congress this year. This finding aligns with ASCE’s messaging that there are no Republican or Democrat waterways; water is a necessity and having clean water affects everyone. 1,000 registered voters were polled by a bipartisan research team on the state of our nation’s water infrastructure, priorities for action, and solutions. The findings also demonstrate that Americans support rebuilding our nation’s infrastructure more than any other top issue facing the current administration, standing at 79%, followed by increasing military defense spending at 56%, providing permanent status for Dreamers at 53%, repealing or replacing Obamacare at 39%, and building a border wall at 35%. Additionally, 74% of Americans who live in urban and rural areas are concerned about the contaminants affecting their water quality. The VOW poll release coincides with Water Week, where professionals in the water industry from across the country flew into Washington to advocate for drinking water and clean water utilities. Meanwhile, across the country, utilities are hosting open houses, events, and more to highlight the importance of clean drinking water and the importance of clean water utilities in communities. ASCE’s *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* gave the nation’s drinking water infrastructure a “D.” On average, there are 240,000 water main breaks per year in the U.S., wasting over two trillion gallons of treated drinking water, and leaking, aging pipes are estimated to waste six billion gallons of treated water per day. According to the American Water Works Association, an estimated $1 trillion is necessary to maintain and expand drinking water service to meet demands over the next 25 years. ASCE also graded America’s wastewater infrastructure a “D+.” It is expected that more than 56 million new users will be connected to centralized wastewater treatment systems over the next two decades, and an estimated $271 billion is needed to meet current and future demands. As the nation’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure continues to age, the cost to repair and replace our pipes and treatment systems will continue to increase. Although the general quality of the country’s drinking water is good, we can’t afford to lose treated freshwater due to aging infrastructure. Through 2025, our needs total $150 billion, and only about $45 billion is account for, leaving a $105 billion funding deficit. Outdated water infrastructure will cost the $896 billion in business sales and $508 billion in GDP by 2025. As the legislative push continues on Capitol Hill, ASCE’s government relations team remains actively engaged. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our water infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Voters%20Are%20Thirsty%20for%20Better%20Water&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F04%2Fwater-400x259.png&p%5Btitle%5D=Voters%20Are%20Thirsty%20for%20Better%20Water "Share on 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=ASCE%20Seeks%20Full%20Funding%20for%20Fiscal%20Year%202020%20Infrastructure%20Programs&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=ASCE%20Seeks%20Full%20Funding%20for%20Fiscal%20Year%202020%20Infrastructure%20Programs "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=ASCE%20Seeks%20Full%20Funding%20for%20Fiscal%20Year%202020%20Infrastructure%20Programs&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Spring is in the air here in Washington, and so has begun the appropriations process. In anticipation of fiscal year (FY) 2020 appropriations, ASCE sent a [series of letters](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/xthcC68z64FrGlRrIKN0MJ?domain=app.message.asce.org) to Key Appropriators while also making it a key legislative ask during this year’s Federal Legislative Fly-In. As ASCE laid the groundwork to secure full funding for key infrastructure programs, the White House released its budget request for FY20—a blueprint of the Administration’s priorities. Congress then began reviewing these recommendations. Last week, the Senate Appropriations Committee held hearings on President Trump’s FY2020 budget request for the [Department of Transportation](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/6XIrCYEl6NTL6oKLuyhHPn?domain=app.message.asce.org) and the [Department of Energy](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/arDYCZ6m4Nu5on15fOtoqq?domain=app.message.asce.org). On the other side of the Hill, House appropriators met to consider the President’s proposals for the [Army Corps of Engineers](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/x9xgC1wBjPfMEwrMiJdhsa?domain=app.message.asce.org), the [Department of the Interior](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/T_fRC2k1RQspEoLpHKm6nZ?domain=app.message.asce.org), the [Department of Energy](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/dkXlC31KlPfpRYjpHk6Nug?domain=app.message.asce.org), and the [National Science Foundation](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/vVhyC4xY8PhB7AZBh9N5Uy?domain=app.message.asce.org). This week, the House Appropriations Energy and Commerce and the Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change held a [hearing](https://energycommerce.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/hearing-on-the-fiscal-year-2020-epa-budget) to review President Trump’s FY20 budget request for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler testified on the budget request’s $2.8 billion cut to the agency compared to the FY19 enacted level, or a 31% decrease. The proposal also requests the following cuts: - A dramatic $38 million cut, or 43% decrease, to the [Water Infrastructure Finance & Innovation Act (WIFIA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/a-busy-month-for-drinking-water-and-wastewater-infrastructure-systems-investments/) compared to the FY19 enacted level; - $1.12 billion, or 34% cut in funding, to the [Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program](https://www.epa.gov/cwsrf); and - $863 million, 26% cut in funding, to the [Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) program](https://www.epa.gov/drinkingwatersrf) compared to the FY19 enacted level. ASCE requested that the House Appropriations Committee on Interior & Environment provide no less than $68 million for the WIFIA program, as well as the tripling of State Revolving Fund programs for a total of $4.5 billion for the CWSRF and $3 billion for the DWSRF in FY20. The House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and other agencies also held a [hearing](https://appropriations.house.gov/legislation/hearings/department-of-transportation-budget-request-for-fiscal-year-2020) to review President Trump’s FY20 budget request for the Department of Transportation (DOT). Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao testified on DOT’s request for $84 billion for key DOT programs—a $3.5 billion decrease from FY19. Under DOT’s budget proposal $1 billion was requested [BUILD grants](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/about), a $100 billion increase from FY19 enacted levels. Despite this positive request, the following programs received cuts: - The [Capital Investment Grants](https://www.transit.dot.gov/CIG) (CIG) program received $1.5 billion, a $1 billion decrease from FY19 enacted levels; - The [Airport Improvement Program](https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/) (AIP) did not receive any supplemental funding compared to $500 million in FY19; and - Key [FAST Act](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/) programs appropriated through General Fund dollars received $3.6 billion, a $1.5 billion decrease from their authorized levels and $2 billion less than FY19 enacted levels. ASCE urges Congress to fund these agencies and successful programs, especially those included in our FY20 appropriations request letters. Providing more funding to existing programs, rather than creating new programs, will reduce overhead costs and startup time while still allowing for significant and noticeable improvements across all sectors of U.S. infrastructure. Our infrastructure is the backbone of our nation’s economy, and we ask Congress to engage in bold leadership so that we can restore America’s world-class infrastructure. 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which has spurred hearings, discussions, and meetings as a part of a legislative push aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. The House Transportation Committee continued the conversation around this legislative push with one of the most important issues to consider while using our nation’s roadways: safety. On Tuesday, the [U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Highways and Transit](https://transportation.house.gov/subcommittees/highways-and-transit-115th-congress) held a hearing with the goal of better understanding safety on our nation’s roads and how to lower the number of traffic-related fatalities and injuries. At this hearing, “[Every Life Counts: Improving the Safety of our Nation’s Roadways](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/03/28/2019/every-life-counts-improving-the-safety-of-our-nations-roadways),” witnesses provided testimony on improving roadway safety. The following people testified: - The Honorable Jennifer Homendy, Member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) - The Honorable Fred Jones, Vice Mayor for the City of Neptune Beach, Florida on behalf of Transportation for America - Michael L. Brown, Chief of Police for the City of Alexandria - Jay Bruemmer, Vice President of K & G Striping, Inc. on behalf of the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA) - Mike Sewell, Active Transportation Service Line Leader for Gresham Smith on behalf of The League of American Bicyclists (LAB) - Nicholas Smith, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer of The National Safety Council (NSC) At the hearing, Full Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR4) stated: “A total of 37,133 people were killed on our roadways in 2017. Let me put this in context – this is the equivalent of about 218 fully loaded airplanes falling out of the sky each year and yet somehow this has not spurred Americans to demand that enough is enough. If that weren’t bad enough, when you consider that the top causes of motor vehicle deaths are drunk driving, speeding, and distractions, you realize these deaths are entirely preventable. At a time when transportation is changing rapidly thanks to innovation, data sharing, and automation, it’s shocking we still aren’t making big strides in safety. We should be holding ourselves to a higher standard, because when it comes to roadway safety every single life counts. While we invest billions of dollars in research for cancer and other diseases and allocate new resources to combatting the opioid crisis, we have failed to seriously invest in lowering deaths on our nation’s roadways.” ASCE and its members hold paramount public health, safety, and welfare and have long supported the principles of [Vision Zero](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-552---vision-zero/), which is based on the premise that traffic deaths and injuries can be prevented; therefore, none are acceptable. It calls for safety to be the primary consideration in transportation decision-making. Vision Zero is founded on four principles: - Ethics: Human life and health are paramount and take priority over mobility and other objectives of the road traffic system; - Responsibility: providers and regulators of the road traffic system share responsibility with users; - Safety: road traffic systems should take account of human fallibility and minimize both the opportunities for errors and the harm done when they occur; and - Mechanisms for change: providers and regulators must do their utmost to guarantee the safety of all citizens; they must cooperate with road users; and all three must be ready to change to achieve safety. ASCE’s government relations team will continue to be actively engaged and advocate for public safety as this infrastructure investment legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems.](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Transportation%20Committee%20Examines%20Roadway%20Safety&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Transportation%20Committee%20Examines%20Roadway%20Safety "Share on 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Executive Order signed by the President in 2017 and then followed through on in December 2018, the [U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)](https://www.epa.gov/wotus-rule) released a [proposed rule](https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2018-12/documents/wotus_2040-af75_nprm_frn_2018-12-11_prepublication2_1.pdf) to redefine the scope of the federal government’s jurisdiction over “waters of the United States (WOTUS)” covered by the Clean Water Act (CWA). The President’s order is more restrained and encompasses more traditional limits on the scope of federal power. With technical assistance from ASCE’s [Environmental & Water Resources Institute (EWRI)](https://www.asce.org/environmental-and-water-resources-engineering/environmental-and-water-resources-institute/) members and a breadth of feedback from ASCE members, ASCE submitted [public comments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/ASCE-Public-Comment-Letter_Proposed-WOTUS-Rule_4.12.19.pdf) in response to the proposed rule. Additionally, we [submitted a request](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/ASCE-EPA-USACE-WOTUS_Request-for-Extenstion_2.14.19.pdf) for a 60-day extension to the public comment period in February, which was denied. After decades of court confusion, the Obama Administration proposed and finalized a new WOTUS definition in 2014 and 2015. ASCE [submitted comments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/epa-finalizes-wotus-rule/) to this proposed rule – many of which were included in the 2015 final WOTUS rule. ASCE’S diverse members are directly and materially affected by the proposed changes to federal water jurisdiction under the CWA in their professional practice areas, and this proposed rule will have an extensive impact on infrastructure developments across the board. ASCE members represent the profession that plans, designs, and builds much of the nation’s infrastructure. As a result, civil engineers are keenly aware of and often most affected by regulations that either facilitate or impede expeditious, cost efficient, and environmentally effective infrastructure development to support our modern society. ASCE carefully reviewed the rule, engaged with members, and attended a stakeholder outreach event conducted by the agencies. After careful staff and member review and consultation and ensuring consistency with [ASCE Policy Statement 378 on National Wetlands Regulatory Policy](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-378---national-wetlands-regulatory-policy/), ASCE concludes that while we support a WOTUS rulemaking by the agencies to better define federal water jurisdiction under the CWA, our Society cannot support the proposed rule in its current form. In ASCE’s comments, we urge review on the proposed rule’s definition of ditches, wetlands, and ephemeral streams. Moreover, it is critical that we have clear jurisdiction for national wetlands policy to ensure that wetlands’ issues are properly addressed in a timely and predictable manner during the project development process. 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Now It's Time for Congress to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/civil-engineers-encouraged-by-white-house-meeting-on-infrastructure-now-its-time-for-congress-to-act/) **Published:** April 30, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on Twitter")](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&text=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters "Share on Twitter")[![reddit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/reddit.png "Share on Reddit")](https://www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act "Share on Reddit")[![pinterest](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/pinterest.png "Pin it with Pinterest")](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&media=&description=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act "Pin it with Pinterest")[![linkedin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/linkedin.png "Share on Linkedin")](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&title=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act "Share on Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")**Washington** – The following is a statement by Robin A. Kemper, PE, President, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in response to the meeting on infrastructure between President Trump, House Speaker Pelosi, Senate Democratic Leader Schumer: “The American Society of Civil Engineers was thrilled to see President Trump, House Speaker Pelosi, and Senate Democratic Leader Schumer move beyond the political gridlock to discuss solutions for our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure. Now that they’ve taken the first step and proposed a $2 trillion investment solution, it’s time for Congress to act. “Our nation’s infrastructure hasn’t seen sufficient investment in over a generation. ASCE is very glad to see the productive results of the meeting, because without this investment, American families will continue to pay the price of inaction through a hidden tax – $9 a day or $3,400 a year. Leaky water pipes, potholes, and lost productivity at work due to congestion is costing us. “ASCE looks forward to working with business leaders, the federal government, and Congress to solve this problem for Americans today and in the future. It’s time to return our “D+” infrastructure to the world-class status it once had.” [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Civil%20Engineers%20Encouraged%20by%20White%20House%20Meeting%20on%20Infrastructure%3B%20Now%20It%E2%80%99s%20Time%20for%20Congress%20to%20Act "Share on 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Infrastructure Report Card, President Trump, statement --- ### [The Powers Unite: Infrastructure Investment is Coming](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-powers-unite-infrastructure-investment-is-coming/) **Published:** May 2, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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funding, showing a large pothole image and the slogan 'TIRED OF POTHOLES?' with smaller text about telling Washington to prioritize infrastructure; bicycles parked beside the kiosk.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Pothole-ad-300x400.jpg "Pothole ad")As bumpy as our streets may seem these days, our federal leaders seemed to have smoothed things out on the topic of infrastructure this past week. On April 30th, [President Trump, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer](https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/30/politics/pelosi-schumer-trump-infrastructure-meeting/index.html) met to discuss a $2 trillion comprehensive bipartisan infrastructure package for the nation, though no funding agreement was made. This meeting comes one day after the two Democratic congressional leaders [sent a formal letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Pelosi-Schumer-Letter_4.29.19.pdf) to the President with an outline of their infrastructure priorities, including the need for new revenue, as well as the inclusion of clean energy and resiliency in any such package, among others. ASCE released a [statement](https://www.asce.org/templates/official-statement-detail.aspx?id=31851) on this meeting by ASCE President Robin Kemper, PE, which showed encouragement by the meeting, but a sense of urgency for Congress to act. Part of the statement read, “The American Society of Civil Engineers was thrilled to see President Trump, House Speaker Pelosi, and Senate Democratic Leader Schumer move beyond the political gridlock to discuss solutions for our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure. Now that they’ve taken the first step and proposed a $2 trillion investment solution, it’s time for Congress to act.” The trio has agreed to meet again in three weeks to discuss specific policy proposals and financing. This effort comes a little over a year after President Trump unveiled an [infrastructure plan](https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/INFRASTRUCTURE-211.pdf) to generate $1.5 trillion in investment, with an emphasis on the need for federal dollars to be leveraged by state and local government funding, as well as private sector investment and a desire to streamline the permitting and approval process to no more than two years. The meeting also comes on the heels of the President’s statement at the State of the Union address earlier this year: “Both parties should be able to unite for a great rebuilding of America’s crumbling infrastructure.” After the meeting, Speaker Pelosi mentioned how pleased she and Senator Schumer were with the bipartisanship on this issue, and cited ASCE in her [statement,](https://www.speaker.gov/newsroom/43019-2/) when talking about the infrastructure deficit we have. ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave the nation’s overall infrastructure a grade of “D+” with an investment gap of [$2 trillion](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/). ASCE believes that [increased investment amongst all levels of government and the private sector is the key solution](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/investment/) to raise the grades and improve our nation’s infrastructure. Additionally[, recent polling](https://www.politico.com/f/?id=00000168-1450-da94-ad6d-1ffa86630001) continues to show that increasing infrastructure spending is one of the top priorities for the 116th Congress. 79% of the people polled stated it is “extremely important.” ASCE believes infrastructure legislation should address the following [priorities](https://www.asce.org/uploadedFiles/Issues_and_Advocacy/Advocacy/Content_Pieces/ASCE_116_Congress_infographic_web.pdf): - fix the Highway Trust Fund by raising the federal gas tax, which hasn’t seen an increase since 1993; - increase the cap on the Passenger Facility Charge to modernize our nation’s airports; - ensure all funds in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund are utilized for our nation’s ports; and - support key financing tools such as tax-exempt municipal bonds and advance refunding. If Congress and the President can agree on a way to pay for this plan, American families will start to feel a difference – literally. An infrastructure bill means more time at home with your family – shorter commutes in many cases and more options and choices for getting around – whether that be by car, bus, rail, or bike. We need to get cones on the ground, cranes in the air, and workers deployed to projects. ASCE members and staff have been active speaking to media throughout the week on what these discussions mean for the future of our nation’s infrastructure. Media interviews include [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2019/04/30/718566129/u-s-infrastructure-shows-the-effects-of-neglect-smith-says), [CNN](https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/30/politics/infrastructure-trump-nancy-pelosi-chuck-schumer/index.html), [MSNBC](http://mms.tveyes.com/transcript.asp?StationID=205&DateTime=4/30/2019%209:43:58%20AM&playclip=true&pbc=search%3a%2b(%22American+Society+of+Civil+Engineers%22+AND+%22Charlotte%22)), [WJLA](https://klewtv.com/news/nation-world/dire-warnings-about-state-of-americas-infrastructure), and more. 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email")](mailto:?subject=The%20Powers%20Unite%3A%20Infrastructure%20Investment%20is%20Coming&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** #9DollarsADay, #BuildForTomorrow, #infrastructurenow, bridges, Capitol Hill, congress, report card, roads, Trump, White House --- ### [U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Hears Infrastructure Investment Priorities](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/u-s-house-transportation-and-infrastructure-committee-members-discuss-infrastructure-investment-priorities/) **Published:** May 3, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png 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This week, the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee held a [Members’ Day Hearing ](https://transportation.house.gov/committee-activity/hearings/full-committee-hearing-committee-on-transportation-and-infrastructure-members-day-hearing) as an opportunity for all Members of the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss their infrastructure investment priorities before the Committee. Lawmakers offered a testimony which cited *[ASCE’s 2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* on multiple occasions. Each Member had an opportunity to discuss key categories of infrastructure importance to their district and our nation as a whole In his opening remarks, Chairman [Peter DeFazio](https://defazio.house.gov/) (D-OR4) [stated](https://transportation.house.gov/news/press-releases/chair-defazio-statement-from-members-day-hearing-): We have let our infrastructure – and our infrastructure funding streams – stagnate to the point where we now need to invest hundreds of billions of dollars to make up for past neglect and plan for the future. There is no way around this reality if we expect improvement. We must now act to address this challenge, by coming together and enacting legislation that will make a difference in every Congressional district and to every Member’s constituents. We must demonstrate to the American people that their government is still capable of working together and taking responsible action to complete critical projects, create family wage jobs, bolster U.S. industries, save lives, preserve affordable access to transportation and water infrastructure, protect our natural resources, and make smart investments and mitigate and adapt to climate change. ASCE has long been an advocate for maintaining and modernizing the nation’s infrastructure. Our *2017 Infrastructure Report Card* rated the overall condition of the nation’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of “D+,” with an investment gap of $2 trillion. This subpar grade and large investment gap are results of the long-term underinvestment and an underwhelming federal partnership. Despite strong leadership across many state and local governments, our infrastructure will continue to degrade if the federal government does not step up to the plate. Failing to sufficiently invest in America’s deteriorating infrastructure will have a cascading impact on the nation’s economy, which will impact business productivity, GDP, employment, personal income, international competitiveness, and public safety. ASCE applauds the work of Chairman [Peter DeFazio](https://defazio.house.gov/) (D-OR4) and Ranking Member [Sam Graves](https://graves.house.gov/) (R-MO6) for their leadership in hosting this hearing. We would also like to thank all of the congressmen and congresswomen mentioned [here](http://message.asce.org/memberdayhearing05012019) for their leadership in testifying before the Committee. This week’s hearing continued the legislative push on Capitol Hill aimed at developing and passing robust and broad infrastructure legislation. This discussion provided lawmakers the opportunity to discuss their infrastructure priorities and the need for continued Federal leadership. We are encouraged by today’s hearing and are eager to continue to work with Congress to improve our nation’s infrastructure. ASCE’s government relations team is actively engaged as this legislative push continues on Capitol Hill. [We urge you reach out to your Members of Congress and tell them to put forward a long-term plan to improve our infrastructure systems](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?0&engagementId=495675). 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email")](mailto:?subject=Iowa%20Infrastructure%20GPA%20Improves%20to%20a%20C&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The Iowa Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers released the 2019 Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure yesterday. Twelve categories, including aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, inland waterways, levees, parks, rail, roads, solid waste and wastewater were included in this iteration. The last Report Card for Iowa’s Infrastructure was released in 2015, and the state earned an overall grade of a “C-.” There were several important takeaways from the new set of Iowa grades. Roads, rail, levees, and inland waterways categories all saw grade increases. Many of these networks of infrastructure benefited from increased investment and improved leadership and planning. Roadways, for example, began receiving additional funding in 2015 thanks to the state legislature, which voted to increase the gas tax. Pavement condition is improving across the state, and congestion remains low. The grade went from a “C-” in 2015 to a “C+.” Inland waterways also improved; the grade went from a “D” to a “D+.” While some progress has been made toward operation and maintenance repairs to the system along Iowa’s borders, the waterways faces significant challenges. The average age of locks and dams in Iowa is 80 years old, or 30 years past their intended design life. While the improved grade is a positive sign, Iowa faces significant challenges. Residents and businesses in the state are now grappling more frequent and intense flooding, as evidenced by the early 2019 flooding across the state. While most levees in Iowa are currently functioning adequately when exposed to normal storm flows, there are serious concerns about levee stability during major rain events, especially in rural areas. Additionally, Iowa is home to the highest number of structurally deficient bridges in the nation. Localities in particular will need a sustained focus on decreasing the structurally deficient rate in the immediate future. In addition to assessing the infrastructure, the Iowa Section made a number of recommendations to raise the grades. The first is to prioritize improvements to aging systems and add capacity to accommodate service demand. Doing so will strengthen Iowa’s economy and keep the state competitive in an increasingly global marketplace. The second recommendation is to support innovative and sustainable funding solutions, including indexing the gas tax to inflation. Third, the Iowa Section of ASCE advises a “safety first” approach to all of Iowa’s infrastructure decisions. Integrated asset management is an important first step toward developing a foundation of safe and reliable infrastructure. Finally, proactive and innovative planning is needed to account for economic trends and to stretch limited funding. You can read the full Iowa Report Card by visiting [infrastructurereportcard.org/Iowa](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/Iowa). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Oregon%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20Mediocre%20Grade%20of%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Oregon’s infrastructure sits in mediocre condition, earning an overall grade of a “C-” in the most recent [*Report Card for Oregon’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/oregon/), which was released by the American Society of Civil Engineers on Wednesday. The Report Card graded 10 categories of infrastructure including energy, drinking water, roads, bridges and more. The Report Card offered analysis and grades for all 10 categories, as well as recommendations to raise the grades. In general, the report found that Oregon has a long history of supporting infrastructure through investment and innovation, however the state still has a long way to go to bring infrastructure systems up to an acceptable level. The two major challenges the state faces are ensuring infrastructure is prepared for future natural disasters, including a possible 9.0 Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake, and ensuring roads and bridges have funding down the line as systems begin to rapidly age.![Diverse group of professionals in business attire posing outside a marble building, holding bright yellow ASCE folders beside a display poster.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/OR-RC-1-400x300.jpg "OR RC 1") The lowest grade in the Report Card was wastewater, which received a “D.” In general, these systems are aging beyond their useful design life and many will soon need replacement or full rehabilitation. Approximately 30% of Oregonians are on septic systems, about 10% of which typically experience on-site failure each year. This aging category of infrastructure needs approximately $5 billion across the state. Levees, although slightly better than wastewater, also received one of the lowest grades in the Report Card with a “D+.” Of the levees inspected by the USACE, about 11% (124 miles) of Oregon levees are rated “Minimally Acceptable,” while about 30% (113 miles) are rated “Unacceptable.” Looking to the future, state leaders must take proactive steps to ensure these systems have the proper funding needed to be prepared for population growth, deterioration, and disaster response. A few bright spots prevailed in the Report Card including roads, which earned the highest grade with a “C+,” and bridges, which earned a “C.” Oregon has the lowest percentage of bridges that are structurally deficient in the western states at only 5.2%. This compares to 7.6% at the national level. Additionally, 90% of Oregon’s highways are in fair to good condition. However, these categories may face significant challenges in the near future. Approximately 20 % of Oregon’s bridges are at risk of becoming structurally deficient in the short term and congestion is already a problem that impedes on successful economic development and impacts residents’ quality of life. Finally, a major earthquake would render components of the surface transportation network unusable. Seismic retrofitting and investment in critical segments of infrastructure necessary to move emergency vehicles and supplies is necessary. In addition to an evaluation and analysis of the 10 infrastructure categories, the Report Card also offers three overall recommendations to raise the grade. Recommendations for individual infrastructure categories can be found within each chapter. - **Improve infrastructure’s ability to withstand a major seismic event.** Bridges, dams, drinking and wastewater systems were not designed for large seismic events, so we need to implement strong leadership, extensive planning, and robust funding to prepare our infrastructure to be resilient and aid in recovery efforts. - **Prioritize investment in Oregon’s bridges to protect the transportation network in the aftermath of a major seismic event.** The Oregon Resilience Plan calls for the development of a mitigation policy and retrofit plan for vulnerable bridges and other infrastructure. - **Provide additional funding to the Connect Oregon multi-modal, competitive grant program.** Connect Oregon provides grants for air, rail, marine and bicycle/pedestrian infrastructure. It has a proven track record of increasing connectivity, strengthening the freight system, and improving the state’s transportation network. Robust funding should be provided by the state legislature to ensure the continuation of the program. ASCE State Infrastructure Report Cards are modeled after the national [Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/), which gave America’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’ in 2017. To read the full report and learn more about Oregon’s solutions to raise the grade, click [here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/oregon/). 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Oregon%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20Earns%20a%20Mediocre%20Grade%20of%20%E2%80%9CC-%E2%80%9D&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Oregon, Uncategorized **Tags:** #infrastructurenow #infrastructurein2019 #9dollarsaday, 2017 Infrastructure Report Card, Oregon, state report card --- ### [Infrastructure Week: #BuildForTomorrow](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-week-buildfortomorrow/) **Published:** May 16, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Infrastructure%20Week%3A%20%23BuildForTomorrow&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F05%2FRep-Turner-400x300.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Infrastructure%20Week%3A%20%23BuildForTomorrow "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20Week%3A%20%23BuildForTomorrow&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The mood this [Infrastructure Week ](https://infrastructureweek.org/)was optimistic, with the timing perfectly sandwiched between two important meetings: the April 30th discussion between Democratic leaders in Congress and President Trump to discuss a $2 trillion investment solution and a scheduled next week to discuss funding solutions for this plan. Excitement was in the air from the DMV to Texas, Michigan, Oregon, and beyond. The theme of the 7th annual official Infrastructure Week, which started May 13 and goes through May 20, was #BuildForTomorrow, a hopeful message to the general public about preparing for the future. ASCE members, sections, and leadership took part in this national week of events, media coverage, education, and issue advocacy – which is designed to elevate infrastructure as a critical issue impacting America’s economy, society, security and future. ASCE is a founding member of the Infrastructure Week steering committee. ![Man in a dark suit giving a speech at a wooden podium with a laptop, seal of the U.S. House of Representatives visible on the front, screen with logos to his left, clock on the wall behind him.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Rep-Turner-400x300.jpg "Rep Turner") **ASCE and City Parks Alliance Hold Congressional Briefing on Urban Parks Infrastructure** Over 80% of the nation’s population lives in a city, and our nation’s city parks, which are supported by a vast network of infrastructure systems, play an important role in spurring economic growth and development and creating more resilient communities with green infrastructure systems. However, despite the growing popularity of public parks and lands, chronic underfunding of our parks infrastructure continues to plague the system, threatening both the safety of these infrastructure systems and communities’ economic stability. ASCE and [City Parks Alliance](https://www.cityparksalliance.org/) held a Hill briefing titled “Our Parks Are Infrastructure,” stressing that urban parks are critical infrastructure. Speakers included ASCE’s Executive Director, Tom Smith; ASCE EWRI Member Dr. Robert Traver, P.E.; Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH); and City Parks Alliance Executive Director Catherine Nagel. Attendees of the session learned about the nexus of public parks and green stormwater infrastructure and the ancillary community benefits of green infrastructure; how investment in our parks is necessary in order to meet the needs of a growing population; and the critical role of public parks infrastructure in driving local economies and addressing transportation needs. ASCE’s 2[017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave our nation’s [public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) infrastructure a grade of “D+.” To help raise the public parks grade, this week ASCE endorsed [H.R. 1334](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/1334), the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Grant Program Act, a bipartisan bill introduced by our esteemed panelist, Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH) and Rep. Nannette Diaz Barragán (D-CA). The bill creates a dedicated source of funding of up to $25 million to expand outdoor recreation opportunities in urban communities and to promote the development of public-private partnerships for such projects. **Oregon Releases Infrastructure Report Card; State Receives a C-** During Infrastructure Week, ASCE released the [*Report Card for Oregon’s Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/oregon/), grading 10 categories of infrastructure including energy, drinking water, roads, bridges, and more. The grades were released at a press conference at the Oregon State Capitol in Salem Oregon, featuring remarks from Oregon Department of Transportation Director Matt Garrett, among others. **ASCE Texas Section Focuses on Resilience, Water Infrastructure During Southeastern Summit** One of ASCE’s own, Carol Haddock, P.E., Director of Houston Public Works, and U.S. Water Alliance CEO Rhadika Fox kicked things off at the Summit with discussions on water infrastructure as a critical component to our economic and social prosperity. The conversations focused on resilience and recovery after the Hurricane Harvey devastation and the efforts to improve Houston’s resiliency. The ask: encourage leaders to value and invest in water infrastructure. **Los Angeles Goes Under City Hall** The ASCE Los Angeles Section toured City Hall – one of the tallest base isolated structures in the world – to see the base isolation dampers with Structural Engineer Nabih Youssef. A Q&A with Mayor Garcetti’s Director of Infrastructure, Liz Crosson, followed the tour. **The Role of Cleveland Ports: Transportation Industry Influence Roundtable and Media Tour** Next Monday is the final day of Infrastructure Week, and key stakeholders, including two ASCE Cleveland Section Members (Gina Beim and Ed Adamczyk), will take part in a roundtable discussion focusing on the transportation industry. An economic engine for the community, the Port is also a key to Northeast Ohio’s global competitiveness, and a crucial partner in building Cuyahoga’ County’s future. The roundtable discussion will focus on the implications America’s freight transportation system, including seaports, and its critical role in the economy. Federal investment in projects of national and regional significant has been insufficient, impacting the flow of goods to farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers who need access to the global marketplace .The day will end by a bus and boat tour of the Port of Cleveland, one of the largest ports on the Great Lakes, where over 20,000 jobs and $3.5 billion in annual economic activity are tied to the roughly 13 million tons of cargo that move thr ![Infrastructure Week 2019 banner with infrastructure icons and the dates May 13–20, #BuildForTomorrow.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Twitter-May-13-20_BuildforTomorrow-1024x535-400x209.png "Twitter-May-13-20_BuildforTomorrow-1024x535") ough Cleveland Harbor each year. For more information on the other events and more details about these events in which ASCE took part, go to [InfrastructureWeek.org/Calendar](https://infrastructureweek.org/event/infrastructure-week-city-hall-seismic-retrofit-tour/). 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[![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Congress%20and%20President%20Trump%3A%20Come%20together%20for%20%23InfrastructureNow&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F05%2FInfra-Now-400x225.jpg&p%5Btitle%5D=Congress%20and%20President%20Trump%3A%20Come%20together%20for%20%23InfrastructureNow "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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President Reagan and Congress later fixed it. Tomorrow, President Trump and Congress have a historic opportunity to revitalize America and bring our infrastructure into the 21st century. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) rated the overall condition of our nation’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of D+ on the *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/).* Additionally, Americ![Orange timeline infographic titled 'Infrastructure Now' with three panels: 1956 Eisenhower and the Federal Aid Highway Act; 1983 Reagan and O'Neill; 2019 Trump and Pelosi on infrastructure.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Infra-Now-400x225.jpg "Infra Now")an families are paying $3,400 a year in personal disposable income due to poor, outdated infrastructure. We hope to see Congress and President Trump come together on funding solutions to modernize America’s failing infrastructure. Just to put it in perspective, in 2017, traffic delays cost the country $170 billion in wasted time and fuel – in addition to 6.9 billion hours delayed in traffic. That is 4[2 hours per year stuck in traffic.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIPgBTrZfV4&feature=youtu.be) 45% of nation’s highways are in poor condition, costing each motorist $616 per year in extra vehicle repairs and operating costs. It is also estimated that roadway features are likely a contributing factor in approximately one-third of traffic fatalities. There were 37,133 traffic fatalities in 2017 in the U.S. A total of 175,080 people died on U.S. highways from 2013 through 2017. ASCE strongly urges [Congress to fix the Highway Trust Fund (HTF)](https://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) in order to provide long-term stability and modernize our nation’s roads, bridges, and transit systems for the 21st century. The HTF’s primary revenue source is the 18.4-cents per gallon federal motor fuel tax which has not been raised since 1993. As a result, inflation has cut its real value by 40%. Now is the time to increase the federal motor fuels tax. This would provide a much-needed infusion of $394 billion over 10 years and combat the $1.1 trillion investment gap in roads, bridges, and transit between now and 2025. If we don’t raise our motor fuels tax, America’s surface transportation infrastructure deficit will continue to worsen and cost households and businesses nearly $147 billion. This included approximately $109 billion in vehicle operating costs, $36 billion in travel time delays, $1.4 billion in safety costs and $0.7 billion in environmental costs. This small increase at the pump will save you and your family money and time. You will have shorter commutes in many cases and more options and choices for getting around – whether that be by car, bus, rail, or bike. This also means that the American marketplace will stay competitive. Reliable, modern infrastructure systems boost productivity for businesses and reduce costly delays that are often translated onto consumers. 27 states around the country have raised their gas taxes recently. It’s time to be a part of history and help the federal government step up to do the same. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Infrastructure%20%26%20Science%20Funding%20Bills%20Move%20Through%20House%20Committees&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")The House Appropriations Committee was hard at work addressing infrastructure and science education this week, which is perfect timing after last week’s nation-wide Infrastructure Week push. The committee passed bills to set aside funding for a number of infrastructure categories including water, energy, and national parks, while the House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee set aside funding for transportation and aviation grants and programs. Additionally, the committee invested in science related agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). **Budgets for Energy, Environment, & Science Pass Committee** The House Appropriations Committee passed the Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 appropriations bills on Interior & Environment, Energy & Water Development, and the Commerce and Justice Department which includes science related agencies. The *[Interior & Environment](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-releases-fiscal-year-2020-interior-environment-funding)* appropriations bill contains $37.28 billion in funding, $657 million of this addresses the National Park Service deferred maintenance backlog while $1.81 billion is set aside for the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and $1.3 billion for the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. The *[Energy & Water Development](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-releases-fiscal-year-2020-energy-and-water-funding-bill)* appropriations bill contains $46.4 billion in funding which includes $7.63 billion for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. ASCE is glad to see proposed investment in these areas, but this is less than [ASCE’s recommended appropriations amounts](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b26d7285e-ebd0-44b5-a9eb-8e4951a59e03%7d_ASCE_Appropriations_Issue_Brief_.pdf). Finally, the FY2020 Bill for the *[Commerce and Justice Department](https://appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/appropriations-committee-releases-fiscal-year-2020-commerce-justice-science)* funds NSF at $8.64 billion, which is $561 million above its current budget and above the $7.1 billion requested by the Trump Administration. The bill also funds NIST with $1.04 billion. ASCE is glad to see each of these programs funded slightly above the [Society’s suggested appropriations amounts](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b26d7285e-ebd0-44b5-a9eb-8e4951a59e03%7d_ASCE_Appropriations_Issue_Brief_.pdf). **House Transportation Funding Bill Sent to Full Committee** The House Appropriations Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee also took up infrastructure this week by approving a [transportation spending bill](https://appropriations.house.gov/events/markups/fy2020-transportation-housing-and-urban-development-and-related-agencies-subcommittee) for FY 2020. The bill provides $86.6 billion in resources for the U.S. Department of Transportation. Notably, this includes $1 billion for [BUILD grants](https://www.transportation.gov/BUILDgrants/about) and $2.3 billion for [Capital Investment Grants](https://www.transit.dot.gov/CIG), as well as an increase of $294 million for core [FAST Act programs](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/fastact/), and $500 million in supplemental funding for the [Airport Improvement Program](https://www.faa.gov/airports/aip/). The bill is now awaiting approval of the full committee. Similar to the other infrastructure investments made by the full committee this week, this bill allocates less funding than [ASCE recommends](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b26d7285e-ebd0-44b5-a9eb-8e4951a59e03%7d_ASCE_Appropriations_Issue_Brief_.pdf). The bill also includes language for protecting the [CAFE Standards](https://www.nhtsa.gov/laws-regulations/corporate-average-fuel-economy), which were implemented by the Obama Administration and regulate how far the vehicles we drive each day must travel on one gallon of fuel. ASCE is glad to see the House Appropriations Committee and its subcommittees address infrastructure and science research. However, with our national infrastructure systems [earning a “D+,”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) it’s time for to return our infrastructure to the world-class status it once had. ASCE has provided a list of [recommended appropriations amounts](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b26d7285e-ebd0-44b5-a9eb-8e4951a59e03%7d_ASCE_Appropriations_Issue_Brief_.pdf) and the Society hopes to see this taken into consideration in the future. Our infrastructure needs are great and after a generation of under investment, it’s time the federal government to step up. Stay tuned for an update on how infrastructure will fare in the Appropriations process. 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email")](mailto:?subject=New%20Bipartisan%20Report%20Stresses%20Investing%20in%20Nation%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure%20is%20Common%20Sense&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Last week’s meeting between President Trump, Speaker Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader Schumer, and Democratic leaders that was supposed to turn the $2 trillion infrastructure bill discussions into policy and funding proposals was interfered by politics once again. Regardless of political drama in DC, the House and Senate are going full steam ahead in introducing infrastructure proposals, and bipartisan policy groups are coming out of the woodwork to demonstrate to the American people that infrastructure is not a one-party issue. There are no Republican roads or Democrat bridges. Modernizing our infrastructure is one of the only areas today where there is bipartisan agreement with 79% of Americans polled recently saying it is “extremely important.” That’s Democrats and Republicans. Echoing this language, the [Problem Solvers Caucus Infrastructure Working Group](https://www.nolabels.org/psc/) in the House of Representatives released a [report](https://reed.house.gov/uploadedfiles/2019_problem_solvers_caucus_infrastructure_report.pdf) with bipartisan policy recommendations to rebuild America’s crumbling roads, bridges, power grid, ports, water and sewer systems, etc. The report recommends modernizing existing user fees, incentivizing private innovation and investment through public private partnerships, making smarter investments with limited federal dollars, and increasing accountability to taxpayers. By implementing these solutions, the taskforce argues that we can build a 21st Century infrastructure network that will foster a 21st Century economy that works for every American. Structured to provide Congressional Leadership and the Trump Administration with the building blocks to craft a robust infrastructure bill that invests in and modernizes our nation’s infrastructure, the report lays out concrete plans on how to fund and finance infrastructure investments. One of the recommended reforms stresses life-cycle assessments to assess all future costs associated with operation and maintenance of facilities where projects are over $20 million. Our nation’s surface transportation feeds into our economy, giving us an advantage in a global economy, but unfortunately, Congress has allowed a backlog of deferred maintenance to grow in our infrastructure while feeling to keep up with growing demand. We essentially have to play catch-up, which has made it harder for businesses to compete and easier to miss meetings, our kid’s soccer game, or be late to work because we’re spending so much time stuck in traffic each day while our infrastructure continues to crumble and become unsafe. The report recommends providing sustainable, long-term funding for the Highway Trust Fund by increasing the federal gas tax to inflation, so Americans do not face the same funding shortfalls over the next 25 years. Inland waterways and ports are also facing issues in terms of failing to properly fund dredging. The report recommends dedicating 100% of the revenue raised for the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund to its intended purpose, which is to support port and harbor dredging activities. Our water and wastewater infrastructure have seen years of underfunding, with underpricing of water and sanitary services and increased federal regulatory mandates – all with declining financial support, thus aging and overburdening our water and wastewater systems across the country. Stressing the necessity of sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure, which ensures safe drinking water and a clean environment while also strengthening local and regional economies, the Caucus recommends strengthening and increasing access to the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds as one of the solutions. Our energy resources have changed drastically in the past decade, but federal policies are failing to keep up with the innovation and growth the sector has seen. Recommendations to modernize our energy systems include pushing Congress to continue to fund critical energy research which strengthens our economy and national security, support Rural Utility Service loans programs that provide much-needed infrastructure to rural communities, and more. Our airports, which carry more than 932 million passengers annually and move about a quarter of our exports and imports by value, yet Congress has failed to empower our airports and air traffic control systems to keep up with the growing demand. The U.S. Travel Association states that 24 of the top 30 airports in the U.S. will soon experience “Thanksgiving-like congestion and traffic volume” at least once a week. The Caucus recommends that Congress proceed to debate a bipartisan, long-term reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration. Our nation’s infrastructure bill is long overdue. We built out our system decades ago and haven’t kept up with the necessary maintenance and upgrades. ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)* rated the overall condition of the nation’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of “D+,” with an investment gap of $2 trillion. In addition, American families are paying a hidden tax of $3,400/year in personal disposable income due to our outdated infrastructure systems. Thanks to the Problem Solvers Caucus for exploring these issues, analyzing policies to find points of bipartisan consensus to address the current backlog of deferred maintenance and need for infrastructure investment now. 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Flooding, along with a plethora of other natural disasters across the country, from Hurricanes Michael and Florence to the California wildfires and devastating tornadoes, have brought the conversation on the need for more resilient infrastructure back to the forefront. [Bloomberg](https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2018-09-14/florence-renews-worries-of-infrastructure-preparedness) covered the importance of infrastructure preparedness after massive amounts of rain and flooding. [Curbed](https://www.curbed.com/2018/9/20/17870542/puerto-rico-hurricane-maria-damage-rebuilding) took an in-depth look at how Puerto Rico’s infrastructure is faring after its one-year anniversary. On [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2018/11/25/670652466/northern-california-camp-fire-contained), California Fire Chief Ken Pimlott emphasized the necessity of evacuation routes and stated that our infrastructure must be resilient or at least resist the intensity of fires, in reference to the California wildfires. Our changing climate is contributing to more flooding, powerful tornadoes, and stronger hurricanes. This past spring, several states saw severe flooding following storms – from Southern California to Texas to the Midwest, flooding has increased because of our changing climate. [California](https://www.mercurynews.com/2019/05/17/prado-dam-risk-rating-changed-to-high-urgency-triggering-measures-to-strengthen-spillway/) is experiencing precipitation whiplash, meaning extreme periods of drought are followed by extreme periods of rainfall. Meanwhile, other parts of the country are experiencing [record-breaking floods](https://www.wired.com/story/for-the-midwest-epic-flooding-is-the-face-of-climate-change/) that the [New York Times](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/05/24/us/midwest-river-flooding.html) states are “consistent with the effects of climate change.” These storms are pushing levees and dams to their breaking points. Most infrastructure systems are not currently equipped to handle unpredictable changes. These [“D”](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/)– rated systems have experienced significant damage. As June started, entire communities in Missouri are flooded after a [levee breach forced](https://fox2now.com/2019/06/03/levee-breach-forces-east-winfield-residents-to-flee-rising-floodwater/) people to leave their homes. When this happens, trains halt operation and farmers can’t drive their trucks to feed their cattle, [forcing them to use a boat versus their trucks.](https://www.kctv5.com/news/levasy-floods-highway-impassable-following-levee-breaches/article_d6b85e5a-848e-11e9-8ef3-f78aa64d8a72.html) However, flooding isn’t the only threat testing our nation’s infrastructure and causing significant damage and loss of life and property. [AccuWeather](https://www.accuweather.com/en/weather-news/in-case-you-missed-it-massive-tornados-obliterate-central-us-peru-struck-by-80-magnitude-earthquake/70008416) reported 516 tornadoes throughout the country during the month of May. Some of these [tornadoes tore apart communities](https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/gabrielsanchez/midwest-storms-tornadoes-oklahoma-missouri-ohio-photos) and their infrastructure systems. Tornadoes in Oklahoma and Arkansas left residents preparing for possible failure of nearby dams, while [17 tornadoes touched down in Ohio](https://www.dispatch.com/news/20190529/at-least-17-tornadoes-confirmed-so-far-in-ohio-outbreak) and [80,000 people were left without power](https://www.governing.com/topics/transportation-infrastructure/After-Large-Ohio-Tornado-80000-People-Without-Power.html). **A Path Forward** As aging infrastructure, climate change, and a growing population become larger concerns, states are pushing for the White House and Congress to agree on an infrastructure package that will allow us to prepare our systems for future disasters. Civil engineers are incorporating innovative, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure solutions into their daily work. We can also learn from past events to prepare for future disasters. In [*Addressing Flood Risk: A Path Forward for Texas After Hurricane Harvey*](https://www.texasce.org/resources/publications/flood-risk/), the [Texas Section of ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/new-report-offers-recommendations-to-address-flood-risk-in-texas-one-year-post-harvey/) analyzed flood risk management tactics in the state and gave recommendations to improve for the future. As part of [the ASCE Committee on Adaption to a Challenging Climate](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/siv8CkRO5NhV8Ymh2V4c1h?domain=r20.rs6.net) and [Infrastructure Resilience Division](https://protect-us.mimecast.com/s/65OGClYMONfJ0OgsGyH4Lo?domain=r20.rs6.net), the Society also recently released a Manual of Practice for civil engineers titled *[Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Adaptive Design and Risk Management](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/9780784415191)*, which provides recommendations and solutions to help civil engineers prepare for the future with resilient infrastructure design. ASCE develops standards that provide technical guidelines for promoting safety, reliability, productivity, and efficiency in civil engineering. Many of these standards are referenced by model building codes and then adopted by state and local jurisdiction. [ASCE 7: Minimum Design Loads and Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures](https://www.asce.org/asce-7/) is an integral part of the building codes in the United States, and describes the means for determining dead, live, soil, flood, rain, wind loads, and other factors, as well as their combinations for general structural design. In addition, [ASCE 24: Flood Resistant Design and Construction](https://ascelibrary.org/doi/book/10.1061/asce24) provides minimum requirements for flood-resistant design and construction of structures located in flood hazard areas. We are grateful the President signed the [Disaster Reform and Recovery Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/disaster-recovery-reform-act-headed-to-the-president/) in October 2018. This bill funds pre-disaster assistance so we can get ahead of these disasters and prepare for the next one. In the second half of 2019, we look forward to the work civil engineers are doing to move towards building a resilient infrastructure network. 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Massive%2C%20bipartisan%20transportation%20package%20approved%20in%20Illinois&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Illinois has just made giant strides in modernizing the state’s surface transportation—it became the fourth state of 2019 to increase its gas tax. Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) signed into law a 19-cent per gallon gas tax increase, doubling the previous rate to a total of 38 cents per gallon, as part of a $45 billion infrastructure plan, dubbed the “Rebuild Illinois plan.” In addition to creating new revenue for roads and bridges through the tax, the bill also increased the vehicle registration fee and added an electric vehicle registration fee. Several years in the making, the passage of this transportation package is part in due to the ASCE Illinois Section’s engagement on the issue. At the Section’s annual Legislative Drive-ins in Springfield the last five years, seeking additional investment for roads and bridges has been a top priority. Partnering with likeminded groups, ASCE continuously asked legislators to increase the gas tax and consider all possible revenue sources. The Section and ASCE at-large have also leveraged their relationships with partner groups, including GOVERNING, Women in Government, the National Conference of State Legislators, and the Council of State Governments to advocate for solutions to address Illinois legacy networks and built systems. The [*2018 Report Card for Illinois Infrastructure*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/illinois/)*,* released in February 2018, asked the Illinois legislature to “develop new revenue sources that provide adequate long-term sustainable funding for infrastructure.” Members of the Illinois Report Card Committee spent much of the last year speaking to key stakeholder and citizen groups to share the Report Card grades and recommendations and drive support for improving the state’s roads and bridges. Illinois Report Card Co-Chairs Pat Lach and Darren Olsen, P.E., spoke to legislators and key decision-makers throughout the state, urging them to act to raise revenue for infrastructure. July 1st, 2019—that’s when this new gas tax increase takes effect and is estimated to generate an additional $1.2 billion. The new revenue will be shared by state ($560 million) and local ($650 million) governments to improve roads and bridges. The passage of this gas tax increase will also index the gas tax to inflation, which means it will automatically rise in future years without legislative approval. This is a key component, as it will help ensure the gas tax keeps pace with the rising cost of materials and labor. The gas tax increase is a big win for ASCE members as well as the people and businesses of Illinois. We applaud the Illinois Legislature for investing in the state’s surface transportation, which will help the citizens of Illinois maintain a good quality of life and a robust state economy. *If you want to get involved in ASCE’s advocacy efforts, join the* [*Key Contact Program.*](https://www.asce.org/keycontacts/) *Similarly, if you’re curious about legislation in your state that stands to impact civil engineering and our infrastructure, be sure to visit ASCE’s* [*state legislative tracking page*](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/?0)*, especially as legislatures reconvene in early 2019.* [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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"Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Massive%2C%20bipartisan%20transportation%20package%20approved%20in%20Illinois&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News **Tags:** gas tax, infrastructure investment, state report cards, states --- ### [ASCE Says Farewell to Brian Pallasch After 20 Years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-says-farewell-to-brian-pallasch-after-20-years/) **Published:** June 7, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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rooftop as a large video camera films them.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/BP-Fox-300x400.jpg "BP Fox")After two decades of energetic and skilled service to ASCE and the civil engineering profession, Brian Pallasch, who served as Managing Director of Government Relations and Infrastructure Initiatives, is leaving ASCE to take on his next professional challenge. His career journey takes him to Raleigh, North Carolina, where he will serve as the Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC). Brian led ASCE’s government relations and infrastructure efforts through multiple sessions of Congress on an endless stream of transportation, water, environmental, professional, science, education, and infrastructure issues. His hard work, enthusiasm, energy, and skill greatly enhanced ASCE’s national voice as a policy leader. He was responsible for growing the [*ASCE Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) from a small one-off project to a nationally, and even internationally, anticipated and respected report. This report is regularly referenced by U.S. Presidents, Members of Congress, governors, and other leaders. His leadership in marshaling ASCE volunteer experts and staff deftly increased the impact of the Report Card every four years. This led to the Report Card becoming one of ASCE’s signature products. The Report Card and other public policy efforts made ASCE a major voice on infrastructure in our Nation’s Capital and in state capitals. This is even more remarkable is when you consider that ASCE — a mid-size non-profit professional association with no Political Action Committee — is a major voice in Washington amongst large trade associations and corporations. This includes Brian’s frequent appearances on major media outlets as [NPR](https://www.npr.org/2018/11/12/666971627/bridging-the-partisan-divide-can-infrastructure-unite-democrats-and-republicans), [CNN](https://www.cnn.com/2019/04/30/politics/infrastructure-trump-nancy-pelosi-chuck-schumer/index.html), [CNBC](http://nbr.com/2019/05/14/nightly-business-report-may-14-2019/), [Barron’s](https://www.barrons.com/articles/optimism-builds-that-infrastructure-spending-could-be-on-the-agenda-of-the-new-congress-1541160204) [US News & World Report](https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2018-07-17/states-employ-new-transportation-methods-to-boost-efficiency-reduce-costs), [Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/trump-revoked-obama-flood-protections-hurricane-harvey-texas-656050), [WIRED](https://www.wired.com/2016/11/trumps-plan-american-infrastructure-get-people-spend-trillion-dollars/), and more. He grew ASCE’s annual Legislative Fly-In from a small, inward-focused event to the 253-member event it became this year. The yearly presence of hundreds of civil engineers on Capitol Hill has boosted ASCE’s visibility and legislative success over the years. Under his watch, ASCE was instrumental in legislative successes such as the creation of the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program, the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program, the Securing Required Funding for Water Infrastructure Now (SRF WIN) Act, and others. Brian’s leadership also impacted such ongoing legislation as numerous surface transportation acts, water resources development acts, and the annual appropriations process, all of which impact the infrastructure deficit. Brian leaves behind a strong team in the ASCE Washington, DC office. The work of advocating for the nation’s infrastructure and raising the grades will continue. [Emily Feenstra](https://www.asce.org/templates/press-release-detail.aspx?id=32061), formerly ASCE’s Director of Infrastructure Initiatives and Public Affairs. 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email")The [Seismological Society of America](https://www.seismosoc.org/) hosted a [briefing](https://www.seismosoc.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Fiber-Optics-Flyer-final3-2.pdf) on June 17 on fiber optic analyses, proving that using fiber optic analyses could be instrumental to the maintenance and safety of America’s infrastructure. Panelists included Herb Wang from the University of Wisconsin- Madison and Nate Lindsay from the University of California, Berkley, and they focused on how these cables do more than just provide speedy internet. **How It Works** According to Wang and Lindsay, the cables that bring us speedy internet connections have the potential to become world’s largest seismograph through a process called [distributed acoustic sensing (DAS](https://eos.org/meeting-reports/fiber-optic-networks-find-a-new-use-as-seismic-sensor-arrays)). The benefit of this? Seismologists can gather data from practically the entire length of a fiber optic cable, giving multiple reference points to better determine the location of seismic events. This creates an almost real-time picture of what is happening both above and below the ground. With U.S. Infrastructure, it can do the following: infrastructure: permafrost repairs, seismology, and road Maintenance. **Permafrost Repairs** Permafrost is soil and groundwater and is often found at high latitudes, which remains at below-freezing temperatures throughout the year. According to the [2017 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alaska/), swathes of permafrost in rural Alaska and the Arctic Circle are now thawing in the summer heat, posing a danger to the roads, rail, and particularly airport runways. This can significantly damage the infrastructure of these regions if left untreated. DAS has the [potential to detect](https://spie.org/news/spie-professional-magazine/2019-april/listening-with-light?SSO=1) the stress of long-term deformation in the melting permafrost, allowing engineers to repair and strengthen the roads before emergency repairs are warranted. **Seismology** The most direct application for fiber optic seismology is seismology. The innovation lies in integration into the existing internet fiber optic infrastructure. With the installation of new projects, such as offshore wind farms on the west coast, seismologists could create points of seismic data collection along the fiber optic cable, which would have been impractical or less effective with conventional seismographs. This could grant seismologists the ability to analyze and predict the effect of deep-sea earthquakes on coastal regions much more quickly and effectively, giving both an early warning to coastal areas of offshore earthquakes and allowing engineers to prepare future infrastructure projects (such as drilling or wind power platforms) the risk posed by undiscovered fault lines. **Road Maintenance** DAS can detect relatively minute differences in ground vibration, and can determine the speed, weight, and severity of traffic on the road, bridge, or railway where it is installed—revolutionizing how infrastructure maintenance is conducted and acting as the key to achieving a model of [resilient infrastructure](https://www.asce.org/issues-and-advocacy/public-policy/policy-statement-500---resilient-infrastructure/). An affordable means of detecting vibrations—the cost of digging and laying cables— future road construction [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Innovations%20in%20Seismology%3A%20Fiber%20Optics%20Help%20Maintain%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Innovations%20in%20Seismology%3A%20Fiber%20Optics%20Help%20Maintain%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png 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email")](mailto:?subject=Innovations%20in%20Seismology%3A%20Fiber%20Optics%20Help%20Maintain%20America%E2%80%99s%20Infrastructure&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Alaska, National Category, News, Save America's Infrastructure **Tags:** fiber optic, infrastructure, resilience, safety --- ### [National Levee Safety Program Gets Some Love in the FY20 Minibus](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/national-levee-safety-program-gets-some-love-in-the-fy20-minibus/) **Published:** June 21, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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The fiscal year 2020 (FY20) appropriations process is well underway, and the House of Representatives [passed](http://clerk.house.gov/evs/2019/roll367.xml) the first minibus of FY20 spending bills, [H.R. 2740](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/2740), which contained a blockbuster win for ASCE: **increased funding for the National Levee Safety Program (NLSP)!** Although the minibus does not fund the program at its full authorization of $79 million, the $15 million it provides for the inventory portion of the program is triple the amount it received in FY19. Additionally, Rep. Bera (D-CA) [offered an amendment](https://amendments-rules.house.gov/amendments/BERA_016_xml66191615121512.pdf) to increase funding to the levee inventory portion of the program by an additional $3 million – bringing the total to $18 million! ASCE [Key Contacts](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts) played an integral role in achieving this success. Here’s just how much of a pivotal role they played: fully funding this program was on the [list of “asks”](http://images.message.asce.org/Web/AmericanSocietyOfCivilEngineersInc/%7b26d7285e-ebd0-44b5-a9eb-8e4951a59e03%7d_ASCE_Appropriations_Issue_Brief_.pdf) that 2019 Legislative Fly-In discussed when on Capitol Hill. ASCE’s [*2017 Infrastructure Report Card*](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) gave our nation’s [levee infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) a grade of “D” and recommends fully funding the NLSP as one way to raise the grade. In addition to member advocacy, ASCE sent several appropriations request letters to the House Appropriations [Subcommittee on Energy & Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Energy-Water-FY20-Request.pdf) and [Subcommittee on Homeland Security](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ASCE-House-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Homeland-Security-FY20-Request.pdf) seeking full funding of the program in FY20, and we led a similar [request letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/FY20-National-Levee-Safety-Program_Appropriations-Request_3.28.19.pdf) with our partners on the [Levee Safety Coalition](https://damsafety.org/levee-safety#United%20States%20Levee%20Safety%20Coalition). The Society also helped garner the support of 51 bipartisan Members of Congress for an [NLSP funding request letter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FY20-EW-USACE-National-Levee-Safety-Program.pdf) championed by Rep. Garamendi (D-CA) and Rep. Westerman (R-AR). The National Levee Safety Program was first authorized in the [Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) of 2014](https://www.congress.gov/113/plaws/publ121/PLAW-113publ121.pdf) (PL 113 – 121 Sec. 3016) to promote consistent safety standards, create levee safety guidelines, and provide funding assistance to states and regional districts for establishing participating levee safety programs. [America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018](https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/senate-bill/3021) reauthorized the program through FY2023 (PL 115 – 270 Sec. 1144). Although the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has been able to inventory 13,700 miles of levees under USACE’s authority and another 15,400 miles of levees maintained by other federal, state, or local agencies in the National Levee Database (NLD), much work must be done to in inventory—determining the location and condition—of all the levees outside of USACE’s authority. With nearly two-thirds of Americans living in a county with at least one levee and more than half of the U.S. population living within 50 miles of a coast with continued development in floodplains, levees play a critical public safety role. Fully appropriating the program at $79 million is crucial to protecting lives, communities, critical infrastructure systems, and trillions of dollars of property. Next up: the Senate Appropriations Committee will release its FY20 spending bills. In addition to sending appropriations request letters to the House Appropriations Committee, ASCE also sent letters to the Senate Appropriations [Subcommittee on Energy & Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-on-Energy-Water-FY20-Request.pdf) and [Subcommittee on Homeland Security. ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/ASCE-Senate-Appropriations-Subcommittee-Homeland-Security-FY20-Request.pdf) [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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appropriations, levees --- ### [House Tees Up Second FY20 Minibus](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/house-tees-up-second-fy20-minibus/) **Published:** June 21, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=House%20Tees%20Up%20Second%20FY20%20Minibus&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=House%20Tees%20Up%20Second%20FY20%20Minibus "Share on Facebook")[![twitter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/twitter.png "Share on 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[H.R. 3055](https://www.congress.gov/bill/116th-congress/house-bill/3055) includes the following appropriations bills: [Transportation, Housing & Urban Developmen](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/transportation-and-housing-and-urban-development-and-related-agencies-116th-congress)t; [Interior & Environment](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/interior-environment-and-related-agencies-116th-congress); [Commerce, Justice, and Science](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/commerce-justice-science-and-related-agencies-116th-congress); [Military Construction & Veterans Affairs](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/military-construction-veterans-affairs-and-related-agencies-116th-congress); and [Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food & Drug Administration.](https://appropriations.house.gov/subcommittees/agriculture-rural-development-food-and-drug-administration-and-related-agencies-116th) Of particular interest to ASCE are programs that fall under the Transportation, Housing & Urban Development; Interior & Environment; and Commerce, Justice, and Science budget areas. The Interior & Environment bill includes $3.08 billion for the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, an increase of $319 million above the FY19 enacted level, although not as high as the combined $7.5 billion ASCE requested in our [FY20 appropriations request letters.](http://message.asce.org/asceFY202appropriationsletters) The Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development bill includes $1 billion for the BUILD grant program, $2.3 billion for the CIG transit grant program, and an additional $294 million for core highway and transit programs included in the FAST Act. ASCE-requested levels for the BUILD and CIG grant programs were higher than levels included in the legislation, and core FAST Act highway and transit programs received higher funding levels than the Society’s request. Finally, the package includes funding for the National Science Foundation at $8.64 billion, or $561.14 million above the FY19 enacted level, as well as funding for the National Institute of Standards and Technology at $1.04 billion, an increase of $54 million over the FY19 enacted level. 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email")](mailto:?subject=House%20Tees%20Up%20Second%20FY20%20Minibus&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** News, Uncategorized **Tags:** appropriations --- ### [Grassroots Ad Campaign Targets Congress and Trump Administration, Highlights Urgent Need for Infrastructure Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grassroots-ad-campaign-targets-congress-and-trump-administration-highlights-urgent-need-for-infrastructure-investment/) **Published:** July 1, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Grassroots%20Ad%20Campaign%20Targets%20Congress%20and%20Trump%20Administration%2C%20Highlights%20Urgent%20Need%20for%20Infrastructure%20Investment&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Our transportation network is the backbone of the economy. To keep that network strong, we must modernize and maintain our roads, bridges, and other transportation networks. However, we’re [![Political ad graphic urging infrastructure investment, with bold black text on a yellow hazard-striped background and a prominent 'Let's get moving again' button.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/TCC-392x400.png "TCC")](https://twitter.com/TheTCC/status/1143607751765057536)still driving over potholes, seeing the aftermath of a water main break, and sitting stuck in traffic for hours—42 hours a year in fact. We can no longer afford to wait to fix our transportation networks. American families are losing $3,400 a year in disposable income due to outdated, unreliable infrastructure systems. Failing to act also puts at risk $4 trillion in U.S. GDP, 2.5 million jobs, and $7 trillion in business sales, as ASCE Senior Managing Director Casey Dinges stated in a recent interview on [Fox Business.](https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/us-economy-infrastructure-gdp-risk-american-society-of-civil-engineers) It is time for our leaders to renew their commitment to our transportation infrastructure and turn discussions into action. That’s why the [Transportation Construction Coalition](http://www.transportationconstructioncoalition.org/index/about/) (of which ASCE is a part) and the U.S. Chamber of Congress-led [Americans for Transportation Mobility](http://www.fasterbettersafer.org/) have launched an [advertising campaign](https://www.artba.org/2019/06/26/ad-campaign-targets-key-lawmakers-and-highlights-urgent-need-for-investment-to-modernize-infrastructure/), targeting Congressional members and President Trump, and expresses the urgent need to fix the [Highway Trust Fund](https://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) and secure a new transportation infrastructure package that modernizes and invests in our nation’s infrastructure. Here’s how it works: social media and grassroots organizing. By using [“Conversation Cards”](https://twitter.com/TheTCC/status/1143622359133360128) targeted at the followers of key House Ways and Means and Senate Finance Committee members – those responsible for developing the funding mechanisms for surface transportation or an infrastructure package – followers can send a message like this: ***Our national transportation infrastructure is severely underfunded, which is crippling our economy and endangering lives. The time for Congress to fix this is now—ask @\_\_\_\_\_ to start work today to get our nation moving in the right direction again.”*** Additionally, digital and Twitter ads will also be running, and these ads are aimed at members of Congress as well as their staff and other policymakers. The ads highlight the impacts of traffic congestion on families and the U.S. economy and investing in aging infrastructure. These ads then drive target audiences to a recent [opinion editorial](http://www.politico.com/sponsor-content/2019/06/17/its-time-to-permanently-fix-the-highway-trust-fund?cid=201906hpms) in Politico that states two key priorities: **Job 1:** Provide a permanent, dedicated, growing, user-fee based HTF (Highway Trust Fund) revenue stream to support the increased transportation investments advocated by President Trump and members of Congress from both parties. **Job 2:** Ensure expanded HTF resources in a transportation infrastructure package are dedicated to projects that will facilitate long-term regional and national growth while creating new jobs. The TCC and ATM ads will run throughout the remainder of June and during July. 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#fixthetrustfund, #infrastructurenow --- ### [Thirteen States Increase Their Gas Tax – Just in Time for Summer](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/thirteen-states-increase-their-gas-tax-just-in-time-for-summer/) **Published:** July 18, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on Facebook")](https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&t=Thirteen%20States%20Increase%20Their%20Gas%20Tax%20%E2%80%93%20Just%20in%20Time%20for%20Summer&s=100&p%5Burl%5D=https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125&p%5Bimages%5D%5B0%5D=&p%5Btitle%5D=Thirteen%20States%20Increase%20Their%20Gas%20Tax%20%E2%80%93%20Just%20in%20Time%20for%20Summer "Share on 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Linkedin")[![mail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/mail.png "Share by email")](mailto:?subject=Thirteen%20States%20Increase%20Their%20Gas%20Tax%20%E2%80%93%20Just%20in%20Time%20for%20Summer&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email")Across the country, many states are proving that funding and modernizing infrastructure is a key priority. We just saw Illinois pass a [massive, bipartisan transportation package](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/massive-bipartisan-transportation-package-approved-in-illinois/) in June as a part of the “Rebuild Illinois Plan,” which created new revenue for roads and bridges, as well as increased the vehicle registration fee and added an electric vehicle registration fee. A state that had not seen a gas tax increase since 1990 saw one that took effect, along with 12 other states, on July 1 – generating an additional $1.2 billion. These increases will go towards [modernizing surface transportation in 13 states.](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/states-are-doing-it-so-why-hasnt-congress-increased-the-federal-gas-tax/2019/07/06/87b78126-9ce6-11e9-85d6-5211733f92c7_story.html?utm_term=.7c05ea70c903) Some of these states saw minor changes or included previously enacted scheduled tax hikes, others chose to index their gas taxes to inflation, and states such as Arkansas, Alabama, Illinois and Ohio saw their first increase in as many as 29 years. Others states whose transportation funds will see an increase in revenue this fiscal cycle included incremental increases or indexed their motor fuels tax. Indexing refers to linking the tax increase to either the consumer price index or a predetermined formula included in the legislation. Neither a red nor blue state issue, [California](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/), [Connecticut](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/connecticut/), Indiana, Maryland,[ Michigan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/michigan/), [Montana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/montana/), Nebraska, [Ohio](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/ohio/), Rhode Island, South Carolina, [Tennessee](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/tennessee/), and [Vermont](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/vermont) all saw increases thanks to the hard-work and effort of [ASCE Key Contacts](http://www.asce.org/keycontacts) and State Report Card Committee Members. Out of these 13 states, ASCE recently released state report cards in seven states, many of which the recommendations called for an increase in the state’s gas tax to fund transportation. Now that the states are doing their part in funding infrastructure by implementing these gas tax increases, it’s time for the federal government to do its’ part. One reason the Federal Highway Trust Fund, which finances most federal government spending for highways and mass transit, only has enough funds to go through fiscal year 2020 is because the United States has not seen a gas tax increase since 1993 and sits at stagnant 18.4 cents per gallon. To fix the [Highway Trust Fund,](https://www.fixthetrustfund.org/) ASCE recommends increasing the federal motor fuels tax by five cents a year for five years. This would provide a much-needed infusion of $394 billion over 10 years into the Highway Trust Fund. ASCE thanks states for making infrastructure a priority and [urges Congress](http://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?3&engagementId=445893) to fix the Highway Trust Fund so that American families can stop paying a hidden tax of $3,400 a year and spend more time at home with their family and less time in the car. 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email")](mailto:?subject=Thirteen%20States%20Increase%20Their%20Gas%20Tax%20%E2%80%93%20Just%20in%20Time%20for%20Summer&body=Invest%20in%20America%27s%20infrastructure%20because%20%23InfrastructureMatters:%20https%3A%2F%2Finfrastructurereportcard.org%2Fwp-cron.php%3Fdoing_wp_cron%3D1792338113.1948521137237548828125 "Share by email") **Categories:** Bridges, California, Connecticut, Michigan, Montana, National Category, News, Ohio, Roads, Save America's Infrastructure, State, Tennessee, Vermont **Tags:** #fixthetrustfund, #infrastructurenow, ASCE, bridges, gas tax, roads --- ### [Preserving the Spectrum Saves Lives](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/preserving-the-spectrum-saves-lives/) **Published:** July 25, 2019 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** [![Facebook](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/plugins/social-media-feather/synved-social/addons/extra-icons/image/social/clearslate/96x96/facebook.png "Share on 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society. Through minimized human error, enhanced ride-share opportunities, and improved mobility in under served communities, CAVs have the ability to reduce traffic accidents, decrease travel time and congestion, and increase accessibility in underserved communities. CAVs provide the benefit of a more integrated surface transportation network due to enhanced communication. Through the deployment of [vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/technology-innovation/vehicle-vehicle-communication), [vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I)](https://www.its.dot.gov/v2i/), and [vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P)](https://www.its.dot.gov/research_archives/safety/v2p_comm_safety.htm) communication, collectively known as [V2X communications](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/596fb16003596e0fa70a232f/t/5d2f2b790ed5de00018cbd0b/1563372410037/V2X+Sourced+Fact+Sheet+July+2019.pdf), CAVs are capable of reducing traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries while supporting stronger planning, design, operation, and maintenance of surface roadways. However, this is not possible without preserving the 5.9 GHz band of spectrum within Dedicated Short-Range Communications (DSRC). DSRC is a channel specifically designed for CAV use through V2X communication protocols and standards. With 80 deployments of DRSC around the country, this technology can save lives by providing drivers with timely warnings of crashes and other potential, life-harming traffic incidents. To ensure safe communication between CAVs and the driving environment, we must ensure that the dedicated 5.9 GHz band of spectrum remains free from interference. When safety is at stake, speed matters. By opening and sharing the band to unlicensed applications, safety could be compromised, putting lives at risk. Therefore, preserving the 5.9 GHz band is critical to ensuring the DSRC channel can guarantee high-speed, secure, reliable and interoperable communication between vehicles and with the infrastructure and road users. ASCE’s *[2017 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, which gave the nation’s infrastructure a grade of “D+,” states that infrastructure challenges remain significant, but solvable. By considering emerging technologies and shifting social and economic trends – such as autonomous vehicles, we can better prepare for the future and enhance safety. As this technology develops at a face pace, bringing more demand, civil engineers must arm themselves with the skills and knowledge necessary to adapt to a more automated transportation system. The spectrum must be preserved for safety purposes in order to create stable connectivity and safe CAV communications. ASCE’s government relations team will ensure the needs of the profession are effectively represented as legislation and regulations are developed. 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the first of three [forums](https://forums.buildstrongamerica.com/dc-program/) on disaster mitigation and resiliency, this one focused on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program. At the forum, ASCE’s Executive Director Tom Smith, ENV.SP., CAE, F.ASCE spoke on a panel about the need to achieve resilience in public infrastructure. He was joined by Seth Siegel, author of “Troubled Water: What’s Wrong with What We Drink,” and Keith Kropf, PE, Former Director of Engineering at the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative. Tom and the other panelists discussed the role ASCE 7 standards play in strengthening infrastructure’s ability to withstand increasingly severe storms. ASCE 7 is the set of standards that determine flood, tsunami, snow, rain, earthquake, wind, and atmospheric ice and other loads and their combinations for general structure design. Many communities, including Florida Keys Electric Cooperative, have been able to recover more quickly because they incorporated ASCE 7 into their design standards. When discussing the 2017 hurricane season, Keith Kropf noted that the poles they’d built to ASCE 7 standards withstood damage much more consistently than other infrastructure owned by the utility and neighboring utilities. The other conversations that morning focused on the BRIC program, a new competitive grant program written into law in the Disaster Reform and Recovery Act. BRIC is designed to reduce our risk to natural disasters by funding pre-mitigation projects that will protect a community and improve a region’s resilience. Before BRIC, the Congressional appropriations process determined how much funding would be available every year for disaster mitigation. As now required in DRRA, there is a 6% set-aside in any disaster relief funding bill for projects that can protect communities can receive funding. Other panelists discussed how to identify and qualify for FEMA’s BRIC grant program, building an understanding of FEMA’s mitigation priorities and exploring use cases for archiving residential resilience. Several of the speakers stressed the role the private sector has in disaster mitigation. Everyone voiced optimism for the BRIC program’s future, noting it serves a critical role in lessening the costs of future disasters. FEMA’s comment period on the implementation of the program and grant process closed on July 15. ASCE Is a member of the Build Strong Coalition, a group of firefighters, emergency responders, insurers, engineers, architects, contractors, and more committed to building a more resilient America. The Coalition plans to hold two additional forums on disaster mitigation and resiliency in the coming months, the next in Houston in September. 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ASCE and CEC to Host Webinar on Solutions in Hazardous Waste Infrastructure On October 27th, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will bring together leading practitioners and experts to explore issues… ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade-hazardous-waste-webinar/) [ ![Blue report-card tag with 2026 and the South Carolina silhouette over rainbow stripes on a pink patterned background; text reads 'Report Card for South Carolina's Infrastructure'.]() September 24, 2026 South Carolina’s Infrastructure Improves to a C- ASCE South Carolina Report Card Co Chair Jonathan Ard discusses the findings of the 2026 Report Card On September 22,… ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/south-carolina-infrastructure-report-card-2026/) [ ![Banner showing the slogan 'Paths To Prosperity' over a multi-level highway interchange under a blue sky.]() September 22, 2026 New StoryMap Highlights U.S. Transportation Expansion ASCE continues to celebrate the United States’ 250th anniversary with our latest interactive StoryMap release, “Paths to Prosperity: How Transportation… ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/paths-to-prosperity-transportation-infrastructure/) [See All News](/news-insights/) ## The 2025 grades range from a B in ports to a D in stormwater and transit. For the first time since 1998, no Report Card categories were rated D−. Among the 18 categories assessed, eight saw grade increases. [ Explore Solutions to Raise the Grade ](/solutions/) ## Explore Categories [ ![Blue airplane icon indicating travel or flights]() Aviation ![aviation infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue line drawing of a suspension bridge with two towers and hanging cables, shown in a simple icon style.]() Bridges ![bridge infrastructure]() ![]() C ![]() C ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue Wi‑Fi signal icon indicating wireless internet connectivity]() Broadband ![Server rack with dense blue Ethernet cables connected to patch panels under labeled ports (D-089 to D-110).]() ![]() C+ ![]() C+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue abstract icon of a lighthouse with stylized waves on both sides.]() Dams ![dam infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue drinking glass icon filled with liquid up to about two-thirds full]() Drinking Water ![water infrastructure]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) [ ![energy infrastructure]() Energy ![energy infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) [ ![hazardous waste infrastructure]() Hazardous Waste ![hazardous waste infrastructure]() ![]() C ![]() C ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![inland waterways]() Inland Waterways ![us inland waterways]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) [ ![levees]() Levees ![US levees]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) [ ![port infrastructure]() Ports ![us port infrastructure]() ![]() B ![]() B ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) [ ![public parks]() Public Parks ![Public Parks]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) [ ![rail infrastructure]() Rail ![rail infrastructure - train at a station in the city]() ![]() B- ![]() B- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) [ ![road infrastructure]() Roads ![us roads - road infrastructure report]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) [ ![school infrastructure]() Schools ![school infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) [ ![solid waste infrastructure]() Solid Waste ![solid waste]() ![]() C+ ![]() C+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![stormwater infrastructure]() Stormwater ![stormwater infrastructure]() ![]() D ![]() D ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) [ ![transportation infrastructure]() Transit ![transit infrastructure]() ![]() D ![]() D ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) [ ![wastewater infrastructure]() Wastewater ![US Wastewater Infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) [Download Grades Chart](/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Grades-One-Sheet-2025-Natl-IRC.pdf) ## Find Your State Choose a State to See Infrastructure Facts:Choose by NameAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming [![]()![]()](/state-item/puerto-rico/) ## Latest State Reports: [ ![Clipboard badge showing '2026' next to the text 'Report Card for Virginia's Infrastructure'; Virginia silhouette with colorful stripes, in blue and teal on a peach background.]() Virginia’s Infrastructure Maintains ‘C’ Grade ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia-2026-infrastructure-report-card/) [ ![Blue clipboard with the number 2026 and the outline of Arizona, beside text that reads 'Report Card for Arizona's Infrastructure' on a pink patterned background.]() Arizona’s Infrastructure Earns a ‘C’: Growth Creates New Demands on the State’s Infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/arizonas-infrastructure-earns-a-c-growth-creates-new-demands-on-the-states-infrastructure/) ![Water fountain spout spraying water with a wall on the left and a person wearing sandals blurred in the background.]() ## Since its passage in 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has funded more than 60,000 projects across the country. While significant advancements are being made, we still face a $3.6 trillion investment gap over the next ten years. [ Investment Pays ](/economics/) [ ![Sunflower field in the foreground with a barn and silo at sunset, warm orange sky overhead.]() Bridging the Gap Report ## Infrastructure Investments save money for American Families and Businesses Learn More ](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [ ![Capitol building lit up at dusk with a colorful sky, foreground shows a busy street and light trails from passing cars.]() ASCE Member-only resource ## Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center Learn More ](/iijaresources/) ![ASCE 2025 Report Card for America's Infrastructure logo with a blue tag and colorful stripes (checkmark on a turquoise square).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-IRC-Logo-w-ASCE-Landscape-Blue-on-TRANSPARENT.png "2025 IRC Logo w ASCE - Landscape - Blue on TRANSPARENT") ## 2025 Release Event: Solutions Summit On March 25, industry experts and elected officials discussed the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure at ASCE’s Solutions Summit in Washington, D.C. Check out the event recording! [View the Event](/2025-release-event/) ## Sign up for Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit ![White line drawing of a public building with a dome on a blue circular background.]() ## Connect with Your Legislators Let everyone know how important it is that we continue to invest in the future of America’s infrastructure. [ Take Action Today ](https://votervoice.net/ASCE/home) --- ### [Paths to Prosperity: How Transportation Infrastructure Built America](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/paths-to-prosperity-storymap/) **Published:** September 22, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** <!-- HFCM by 99 Robots - Snippet # 5: Paths to Prosperity --> --- ### [Events RSVP](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rsvp/) **Published:** January 24, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** ## ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/InfraSolutionLogo-400x146.png "InfraSolutionLogo")Infrastructure Resilience Forum ### Thursday, September 24 ### 12:15 – 4 p.m. In-person registration for the Infrastructure Resilience Forum is now closed. You can still [register to watch online](https://asce-org.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EcYma2tTRpag7jQYIH3_bg#/registration). --- ### [US Electricity Generation Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/electricity-generation-map/) **Published:** March 2, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ###### ###### Americans rely on electricity from a variety of sources. Reduced electric demand, changing delivery costs, and new regulations, including those focused on reducing environmental impact, have prompted transformations across the energy sector in recent years, resulting in growth in natural gas, solar, and wind generation. ###### In 2015, 40% of additional power generation came from natural gas and renewable systems, a trend that continues. Each state has its own mix of power sources based on the resources available. ##### View the US electricity generation map below: - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-all.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-all-h.png)All](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-wind.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-wind-h.png)Wind](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-coal.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-coal-h.png)Coal](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-oil.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-oil-h.png)Oil](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-hydro.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-hydro-h.png)Hydro](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-gas.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-gas-h.png)Gas](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-nuclear.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-nuclear-h.png)Nuclear](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-solar.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-solar-h.png)Solar](#) - [![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-geothermal.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/source-map/i-geothermal-h.png)Geothermal](#) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/energymap-scale.png) **Total Electric Power Industry:** gigawatt hours - **Wind:** 12,229,559 - **Gas:** 116,139,609 - **Coal:** 297,874 - **Nuclear:** 18,505,385 - **Oil:** 18,505,385 - **Solar:** 14,814,384 - **Hydro:** 13,808,498 - **Geothermal:** 11,883,135 Note: Electricity source breakdown will not equal total; only most common sources included. Source: [U.S. Energy Information Agency. Net Generation by State by Type of Producer by Energy Source (EIA-906, EIA-920, and EIA-923). Released October 2016, Revised November 2016.](https://www.eia.gov/electricity/data/state/) --- ### [Story Map: How Infrastructure Impacts Daily Life | ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) **Published:** April 1, 2025 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** --- ### [Ground Level Resiliency: How Communities Can Lead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) **Published:** March 3, 2026 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** <!-- HFCM by 99 Robots - Snippet # 2: Resilience Story Map --> --- ### [Grading the States: State Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) **Published:** May 18, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** <!-- HFCM by 99 Robots - Snippet # 3: Grading the States --> --- ### [Making the Grade: US Infrastructure Assessment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** America’s infrastructure is the foundation on which our national economy, global competitiveness, and quality of life depend. While often taken for granted when it is working properly, every American household or business immediately feels the impact of just one inefficiency or failure in our built environment. Our infrastructure includes an interconnected system of highways, streets, public buildings, mass transit, ports, airports, inland waterways, water systems, waste facilities, the electric grid, broadband networks, dams, levees, and other public and private facilities. Maintaining these networks is essential to meet economic demands and protect public health and safety. For American families and businesses to thrive, we need a first-class infrastructure system that moves people and goods safely, sustainably, efficiently, and affordably by land, water, and air; energy transmission systems that deliver clean, dependable, low-cost power; and water systems that reliably and safely drive industrial processes, as well as the daily functions of our communities. Since 1998, ASCE has issued a quadrennial assessment of the United States’ infrastructure networks, known as the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. For more than two decades, the message behind the unflattering grades was consistent: federal, state, and local governments, in addition to the private sector, have not been prioritizing our interdependent infrastructure systems. In sum, the bill on our infrastructure systems was past due. We needed to reverse the nation’s growing infrastructure investment gap to remain competitive in the global marketplace, allow local businesses to thrive, and keep our families safely connected. That message grew louder with each evaluation, through our most recent Report Card release in early 2021. However, in late 2021, the trend began to change. Congress passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the most comprehensive federal investment in the nation’s infrastructure in U.S. history. The law included many of the solutions to raise the grades featured in ASCE’s 2021 Report Card, including robust resources for water infrastructure, transportation, and related areas. A few years later, IIJA investments and policy changes are already improving the performance of our transportation, water, energy, and waste networks. As a result, nearly half of the grades are increasing for the 18 categories we assess in this 2025 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. This forward momentum is due in large part to the actions of the federal government in partnership with state and local governments and the private sector. Unfortunately, while significant advancements are being made, we still face a substantial investment gap. The shortfall grows as existing infrastructure systems continue to age and demands on those systems increase. In addition, passage of the IIJA has shed light on key issues affecting our industry. Projects should be modernized or replaced by prioritizing **resilience** to withstand extreme weather. Resilience-focused measures may add to upfront costs but save on sudden, less predictable, and large financial impacts from disaster-related damages. Infrastructure projects take a long time to develop, and stakeholders may hesitate to pursue resilient designs without assurances that current funding levels will be **sustained in the future**. These are just a few of the challenges we continue to face. The 2025 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* provides a snapshot of how our infrastructure systems are faring and offers solutions for improving the performance of each category. For the second consecutive report, Report Card grades show that U.S. infrastructure is trending in the right direction thanks to comprehensive support, innovative solutions, and bold leadership. Continued action will further improve these networks, unlocking the full potential of our nation’s economy and creating opportunities for all Americans. [Explore Our History](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) ![Icon with a question mark in the middle](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-question-89x78.png "Icon with a question mark in the middle") ## What Makes a Grade? The [ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure](/about-asce/advisory-council/), made up of 52 dedicated infrastructure professionals from across the country with decades of expertise in all categories, volunteers their time to work with ASCE Infrastructure Initiatives staff and prepare the *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The Committee assesses all relevant data and reports, consults with technical and industry experts, and assigns grades using the following key criteria: - ***Capacity*:** Does the infrastructure’s capacity meet current and future demands? - ***Condition*:** What is the infrastructure’s existing and near-future physical condition? - ***Funding*:** What is the current level of funding from all levels of government for the infrastructure category as compared to the estimated funding need? - ***Future Need*:** What is the cost to improve the infrastructure? Will future funding prospects address the need? - ***Operation and Maintenance*:** What is the owner’s ability to operate and maintain the infrastructure properly? Is the infrastructure in compliance with government regulations? - ***Public Safety*:** To what extent is the public’s safety jeopardized by the condition of the infrastructure and what could be the consequences of failure? - ***Resilience*:** What is the infrastructure system’s capability to prevent or protect against significant multi-hazard threats and incidents? How able is it to quickly recover and reconstitute critical services with minimum consequences for public safety and health, the economy, and national security? - ***Innovation*:** What new and innovative techniques, materials, technologies, and delivery methods are being implemented to improve the infrastructure? In addition to this US Report Card, ASCE’s sections and branches prepare [state Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) on a rolling basis, providing infrastructure assessments and following the methodology of the national Report Card. ## Infrastructure Report Card Grading Scale ![Graded an A](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/grade-a-89x78.png "grade-a") ### **EXCEPTIONAL, FIT FOR THE FUTURE** The infrastructure in the system or network is generally in excellent condition, typically new, or recently rehabilitated, and currently meets capacity needs for the future. A few elements show signs of general deterioration that require attention. Facilities meet modern standards for functionality and are resilient to withstand most disasters and severe weather events. ![Graded a B](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/grade-b-89x78.png "grade-b") ### **GOOD, ADEQUATE FOR NOW** US infrastructure in the system or network is in good to excellent condition; some elements show signs of general deterioration that require attention. A few elements exhibit significant deficiencies. Safe and reliable, with minimal capacity issues and minimal risk. ![Graded a C](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/grade-c-89x78.png "grade-c") ### **MEDIOCRE, REQUIRES ATTENTION** The infrastructure in the system or network is in fair to good condition. It shows general signs of deterioration and requires attention. Some elements exhibit significant deficiencies in conditions and functionality, with increasing vulnerability to risk. ![Graded a D](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/grade-d-89x78.png "grade-d") ### **POOR, AT RISK** American infrastructure is in poor to fair condition and mostly below standard, with many elements approaching the end of their service life. A large portion of the system exhibits significant deterioration. Condition and capacity are of serious concern with a strong risk of failure. ![us infrastructure grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/grade-f-89x78.png "Graded an F") ### **FAILING/CRITICAL, UNFIT FOR PURPOSE** The infrastructure in the system is in unacceptable condition with widespread advanced signs of deterioration. Many of the components of the system exhibit signs of imminent failure. ![Icon with a question mark in the middle](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-question-89x78.png "Icon with a question mark in the middle") ## Frequently Asked Questions #### General Questions About the Report ##### [What is the Infrastructure Report Card?](#1767125125048-76ddb7e3-7757) Every four years, ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure releases a comprehensive analysis of the nation’s infrastructure systems – covering their current conditions and future needs and taking a step back to examine if current policies or trends are heading in the right direction. ASCE has been doing this analysis, known as the Infrastructure Report Card, since 1998. ##### [How often is the Infrastructure Report Card updated?](#1767127155236-fa695e38-e35e) Since 2001, the ASCE Report Card has been updated every four years. Its release coincides with the start of the new Congress and presidential administration. ##### [What does each letter grade (A through F) mean?](#1767127186856-73cd3c93-b0ce) A: Infrastructure is exceptional and fit for the future. B: Infrastructure is good or adequate for now. C: Infrastructure is mediocre and requires attention. D: Infrastructure is poor and at risk. F: Infrastructure is failing and unfit for its intended purpose. ##### [How is infrastructure performance measured and graded?](#1767127225316-cbbaff33-6046) Each infrastructure category is measured through eight key criteria weighted equally: Capacity, condition, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, resilience, and innovation. Each criteria receives a score and is added up to determine the grade of the category. ##### [Why is America’s infrastructure graded so low?](#1767127258894-c8cb5254-b03b) The “C” assigned to the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure is an improvement from the ‘C-” and ‘D+’ received in 2021 and 2017, respectively. The grade reflects the substantial needs throughout the U.S. in key areas including funding and operation and maintenance. Reliable, safe infrastructure depends upon resources aligning with improved resiliency and innovation to meet current and future demands. ##### [What’s new in the most recent Report Card (2025)?](#1767127286808-449bf603-6c65) The 2025 Report Card adds Broadband as a newly-graded chapter which brings the total categories in the report to 18. Further, an updated funding chart includes anticipated needs, investment, and funding gap over 10years for all 18 categories. #### Methodology and Data ##### [Who decides the grades in the Infrastructure Report Card?](#1767191624269-ee859641-ef68) The Committee on America’s Infrastructure guides the development of the report card including grade determination for each category and overall. The committee consists of ASCE members who are engineers and infrastructure professionals with experience in each of the 18 categories. ##### [What data sources are used?](#1767191624285-6cc0b615-9d72) Data included in the report is primarily collected from federal agencies and national organizations. ##### [How are criteria like capacity, condition, and funding evaluated?](#1767191624299-4663f091-6d4c) Each criteria is assessed based on howthe infrastructure category supports its intended users. For transit, for instance, capacity is linked to ridership and how well the system can accommodate the users of the public transportation network. Throughout all categories, funding is assessed by how available funds meet the capital and operational costs. #### Category-Specific Questions ##### [What infrastructure categories are included in the Report Card?](#1767192146832-5a1e4992-4082) The report card includes 18 categories across transportation, energy, water, and related critical infrastructure. The categories are aviation, bridges, broadband, dams, drinking water, energy, hazardous waste, inland waterways, levees, ports, public parks, rail, roads, schools, solid waste, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. #### Funding and Policy ##### [How much funding is needed to raise America’s infrastructure grade?](#1767192286636-3c24258d-a0b2) With the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, ASCE estimates investment needs total $9.1 trillion for all 18 Report Card categories to reach a state of good repair, which would be reflected in the Report Card with a “B”. Public data and ASCE’s 2024 Bridging the Gap study forecast $5.4 trillion in public and private investments in the 10-year period, 2024 through 2033, if Congress continues recent funding levels. This leaves a gap of $3.7 trillion in investments for America’s infrastructure if we keep investing at current funding levels. ##### [What impact has the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Acthad on these grades?](#1767192715798-81b872c7-f5ce) The 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, set a new standard for federal infrastructure spending. The IIJA and Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) $580 billion in new investment provided an initial and consequential step in bridging the funding gap between the nation’s infrastructure needs and preexisting support. Thanks in part to these investments, the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure graded the nation’s infrastructure at a “C” for the first time. ##### [How can public officials, private industry, and the general public use the Report Card?](#1767192776020-be9402f4-c51c) The Report Card can be used to inform public officials, private industry, and the general public on the state of the nation’s infrastructure and the importance of safe, resilient infrastructure systems for the economy and quality of life. The Report Card identifies areas of greatest need and recommendations for policymakers to pursue in order to improve the nation’s infrastructure. ##### [What policies does ASCE recommend to improve U.S. infrastructure?](#1767192802461-97160280-f5fe) To raise America’s infrastructure grades over the next four years, ASCE urges a comprehensive agenda that sustains investment, prioritizes resilience, and advances forward-thinking policies and innovations. ##### [What options exist to increase infrastructure investment?](#1767192844799-0258d44e-42af) Congress should sustain IIJA-level investments beyond 2026 and fully fund authorized programs each year, while also restoring long-term stability to key funding mechanisms such as the Highway Trust Fund and State Revolving Funds. Infrastructure owners need to set rates that reflect the true cost of service and help the public understand those costs. Federal, state, and local governments should also expand the use of public-private partnerships and other financing tools where appropriate. Finally, project owners should evaluate full life-cycle costs, from planning through decommissioning, to ensure long-term value and more strategic infrastructure investment. ![icon-aboutasce](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-aboutasce-89x78.png "icon-aboutasce") ### About ASCE [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/) ![icon-certificate](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-certificate-89x78.png "icon-certificate") ### Acknowledgements [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/acknowledgements//) --- ### [Flowing Forward: How Water Infrastructure Shaped America](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/) **Published:** July 1, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** <!-- HFCM by 99 Robots - Snippet # 4: Flowing Forward --> --- ### [ASCE Infrastructure StoryMaps](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/all-story-maps/) **Published:** March 3, 2026 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Infrastructure shapes how communities across the nation live, work, and grow. ASCE’s StoryMaps tell the story of America’s infrastructure: its history, the challenges we face, and how communities are addressing those challenges. Through data, visuals, and real-world examples, these StoryMaps highlight solutions that can build a safer, more resilient future. [![Water-filled industrial tunnel with a bright exit at the end; a blue banner shows the text 'Flowing Forward'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/flowing-forward.png "flowing-forward")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/) ### [Flowing Forward](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/) #### A look at how America’s water infrastructure has advanced [View Storymap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/) [![Collage of ASCE annual report covers for multiple states, showing bridges, highways, and landscapes.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/state-report-card-story-map-2-featured-image.png "state-report-card-story-map-2-featured-image")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) ### [Grading the States](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) #### A look at ASCE’s state report cards and how members put together this advocacy tool [View Storymap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) [![Satellite view of a powerful tropical cyclone with a clearly defined eye and spiraling cloud bands over the ocean.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/ASCE-Resilience-Toolkit-Storymap-1.jpg "ASCE-Resilience-Toolkit-Storymap (1)")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) ### [Ground Level Resiliency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) #### Protecting People and Property through Modern Codes and Standards [View Storymap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) [![New York City's borders highlighted yellow](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/resilience-image1.jpg "resilience-image1")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) ### [Infrastructure is everywhere](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) #### A system of systems with local, regional, and national impact [View Storymap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) --- ### [ASCE in the News](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/asce-in-the-news/) **Published:** November 1, 2019 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Keep up with the latest in U.S. infrastructure news from the American Society of Civil Engineers. Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. --- ### [Events](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/events-webinars/) **Published:** March 17, 2026 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### Keep up with the latest in US infrastructure events & webinars from the American Society of Civil Engineers. Filter by:Select Category:National CategoryAviationBridgesDamsDrinking WaterEnergyHazardous WasteInland WaterwaysLeveesPortsPublic ParksRailRoadsSchoolsSolid WasteTransitWastewaterSelect State:StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming[Clear](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/events-webinars/)Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. --- ### [Gamechangers Reception](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers-reception/) **Published:** March 12, 2025 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Thanks for your interest in the ASCE Gamechangers Reception. We’ll provide information about our 2027 event once it is available. --- ### [2026 Infrastructure Investment Forum](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-forum/) **Published:** January 12, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/InfraSolutionLogo-1024x375.png "InfraSolutionLogo") ## **Infrastructure Investment Forum** ### February 18, 2026 – 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. #### Meridiam #### 1700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW #### Washington, DC #### [About the event](#1768237393340-bd245119-9423) On February 18, 2026, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) held a discussion on how the public and private sector are collaborating to find new solutions for investing in the nation’s infrastructure. ASCE’s *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* identified the need to sustain investment as vital if we are to continue to improve the nation’s infrastructure. Bringing further perspective, ASCE’s Infrastructure Investment Forum will examine how investors are financing projects, the role of asset management in project development and sustainability, and how system owners and operators are improving resiliency of the nation’s energy network. Our thanks to [Meridiam](https://www.meridiam.com/) for hosting this event. #### [Agenda](#1768237393350-86e52339-d60f) | | | |---|---| | ##### **8:30 – 9 a.m.** | **Coffee & Networking** | | ##### **9 – 9:10 a.m.** | **Welcome**- Carol Haddock, ASCE President Elect | | ##### **9:10 – 9:40 a.m.** | **Opening Fireside Chat Bridging the Gap: Delivering Capital, Driving Results**- Nicolas Rubio, CEO, Meridiam North America - Martha Gross, Executive Director, Transit Development and Delivery, Maryland Department of Transportation - Maria Lehman, Interim Executive Director, ASCE | | ##### **9:40 – 10:25 a.m.** | **Asset Management & Life Cycle Costs**- Thomas Mulvihill, Managing Director, Head of Infrastructure, KeyBanc Capital Markets - Keith Pugh, Director of Local Government Innovation, WithersRavenel - Chris DeJuneas, Enterprise Solutions Consultant, Brightly Software - David Agnew, Managing Director, Macquarie Asset Management (MAM) | | ##### **10:25 – 11:10 a.m.** | **State & Local Financing Tools**- Dr. Qingbin Cui, Director, University of Maryland – Build America Center - Lisa Eisenberg, Senior Director of Debt Management, Ohio Treasurer of State - Justin Stone, Senior Manager, Infrastructure and Real Estate, Deloitte - Nate Macek, Director, Infrastructure Finance, HDR | | ##### **11:10 – 11:55 a.m.** | **Investing in Energy Resilience**- David Terry, President, National Association of State Energy Officials - Ross Fowler, Managing Director, North American Power and Utility Research, Bank of America - Sharon Midgley, Vice President of Regulatory Policy, Constellation - Terry Smith, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Smith’s Research and Gradings | | ##### **11:55 a.m – 12 p.m.** | **Closing**- Carol Haddock, ASCE President Elect | #### [Video](#1771536815218-2528053a-8337) ## Watch Here --- ### [Report Card Release - Live from the Newseum!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-card-release-live-from-the-newseum/) **Published:** February 16, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Watch the 2017 Infrastructure Report Card release here on March 9, starting at 9:30 a.m. ET. **Schedule of events includes:** **9:30 am – 2017 Infrastructure Report Card Grades and Solutions Reveal:** - Tom Smith, ENV.SP., CAE, F.ASCE, Executive Director, ASCE - Greg DiLoreto, P.E., P.LS., D. WREPres. 13 ASCE, Chair, ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure - Norma Jean Mattei, Ph.D., P.E., F.SEI, M.COPRI, M.ASCE, President, ASCE **10:30 am – A conversation with Gov. Dannel Malloy (D-CT)** **11:15 am – Solutions Panel featuring:** - Governor Ed Rendell, former governor of Pennsylvania, co-chair, Building America’s Future - George Hawkins, CEO, DC Water [Go to Mobile Friendly Video Feed](/mobile-friendly-stream/) --- ### [NCSL2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ncsl2020/) **Published:** September 3, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Failure to Act Economic Reports \| These studies quantify how persistent failure to invest in our aging infrastructure impacts the economy, including GDP, jobs, personal disposable income, and business sales. The latest reports from 2020 examine the water/wastewater and electricity sectors. [America’s Construction-Ready Infrastructure Projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/stimulus-relief-map/) \| Our future economic prosperity relies on modern infrastructure, and our immediate need for recovery calls for large-scale reinvestment in America’s backbone – our infrastructure. ASCE Policy Statement on State Licensure \| ASCE opposes legislation to weaken or eliminate professional licensing requirements for civil engineers. Such efforts pose threats to the health, safety, and welfare of the public. [Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) \| The latest national grades were published in 2017 and include 16 categories of infrastructure, as well as solutions to raise the grades. [State Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) \| Released on a rolling basis, these reports localize the issues identified in the national grades. State report cards also include solutions specific to that state on how to improve the infrastructure GPA. [Status Report: COVID-19’s Impacts on America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/COVID-19-Infrastructure-Status-Report.pdf) \| We’ve been underinvesting in our infrastructure for decades, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made a difficult situation worse. See how our roads, bridges, airports and more are faring in light of unprecedented demands on municipal and state budgets and understand how Congress can act to reinvest and prepare for our economic future. --- ### [Make Infrastructure a Priority](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/make-infrastructure-a-priority/) **Published:** February 16, 2018 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The American Society of Civil Engineers has been warning of the safety and economic implications of our deteriorating infrastructure for the past 20 years. The Infrastructure Report Card has yet to give an overall grade higher than a ‘D+.’ [![Blue airplane icon indicating travel or flights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/aviation-b80.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Aviation![aviation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/aviation-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/)[![Blue line drawing of a suspension bridge with two towers and hanging cables, shown in a simple icon style.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bridge-b80.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)CBridges![bridge infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bridges-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/)[![Blue Wi‑Fi signal icon indicating wireless internet connectivity](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/broadband-b80.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)C+Broadband![broadband](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/icon-2021-bb2.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/)[![Blue abstract icon of a lighthouse with stylized waves on both sides.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/dams-b80.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Dams![dam infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/dams-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/)[![Blue drinking glass icon filled with liquid up to about two-thirds full](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/drinking-water-b80.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)C-Drinking Water![water infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/drinking-water-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/)[![energy infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0001_energy.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Energy![energy infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/energy-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/)[![hazardous waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/hazardous-waste-green.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)CHazardous Waste![hazardous waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/hazardous-waste-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/)[![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-inland.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)C-Inland Waterways![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/inland-waterways-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/)[![levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-levee.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Levees![levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/levees-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/)[![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/inland-waterways.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Marine Highways![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/inland-waterways-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/marine-highways/)[![port infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0012_barge.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)BPorts![port infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ports-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/)[![public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-public-parks.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)C-Public Parks![public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/public-parks-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/)[![rail infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0019_tracks.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)B-Rail![rail infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/rails-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Airports![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-airports/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Broadband, Parks, Schools, Hazardous Waste & Solid Waste![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/resource-center-broadband-parks-schools-hazardous-waste-solid-waste/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Dams & Levees![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-dams-levees/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Drinking Water, Wastewater & Stormwater![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-drinking-water-wastewater-stormwater/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Energy![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-energy/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-justice-equity-diversity-inclusion/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Ports & Inland Waterways![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-ports-inland-waterways/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Roads & Bridges![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-roads-bridges/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Transit & Rail![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-transit-rail/)[![]()![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)Resource Center: Transit & Rail![]()](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/resource-center-transit-rail/)[![road infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0018_road.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Roads![road infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/roads-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/)[![school infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0007_school.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Schools![school infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/schools-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/)[![solid waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0006_WASTE.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)C+Solid Waste![solid waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/waste-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/)[![stormwater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/icon-2021-stormwater.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)DStormwater![stormwater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/icon-2021-stormwater-rev.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/)[![transportation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0000_transit.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)DTransit![transportation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/transit-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/)[![wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0021_wastewater.png)![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/themes/iron-framework-child/images/clipboard.png)D+Wastewater![wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/wastewater-i.png)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) Now it’s time for Congress to pass bipartisan legislation the will modernize our infrastructure and put us on a path for increased economic prosperity. The longer Congress delays, the more Americans pay. ASCE estimates that our nation’s deteriorating infrastructure costs the average American family $9 a day. The Trump Administration’s plan is a solid first step in having a real conversation about solutions for the nation’s aging infrastructure and a path to address our infrastructure investment deficit. As stewards of the nation’s infrastructure, the American Society of Civil Engineers recommends the following principles be reflected in any infrastructure legislation: - Investments must provide substantial, long-term benefits to the public and the economy; - The cost of a project over its entire life span – including designing, building, operating, and maintaining the infrastructure – must be taken into account; - Projects should be built sustainably and resiliently; and - Federal investment should leverage state, local, and private investment, not replace these other critical sources of infrastructure funding. ASCE urges President Trump and the 115th Congress to focus first on prioritizing those aspects of our infrastructure most in need of repair, replacement, and modernization, to sustain our economy, public health, and safety. Further, a critical component of any plan to rebuild and modernize our infrastructure must be to [fix the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF)](http://www.fixthetrustfund.org) – the federal fund that pays for bridges, roads, and transit. The Highway Trust Fund provides essential funding for our transportation network but faces a looming shortfall because the federal gas tax rate has been increased since 1993. To put this in perspective, a loaf of bread cost 75 cents in 1993, while today it costs $2.50. Similarly, a car cost $12,750 on average in 1993, and is more than double today at an average $33,650. Meanwhile, we are still trying to use 1993 dollars to build 2018 infrastructure and it’s not adding up. To prevent the projected funding shortfall and improve our surface transportation network, we must raise the motor fuels user fee by 25 cents per gallon. Increasing the user fee rate would provide the revenue needed to modernize our roads, bridges, and transit and address the funding deficit. This would provide a much-needed infusion of $375 billion over ten years and combat the $1.1 trillion investment gap in roads, bridges, and transit between now and 2025. ###### Contact Us <govwash@asce.org> ###### Read the latest in Infrastructure news Filter by:Select Category:National CategoryAviationBridgesDamsDrinking WaterEnergyHazardous WasteInland WaterwaysLeveesPortsPublic ParksRailRoadsSchoolsSolid WasteTransitWastewaterSelect State:StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming[Clear](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/make-infrastructure-a-priority/)Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. ###### See how much investment is needed to improve US infrastructure [![the role of infrastructure in economic growth](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2017_Report-Card_cumulative-infrastructure-needs-1-308x400.jpg "2017_Report-Card_cumulative-infrastructure-needs (1)")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2017_Report-Card_cumulative-infrastructure-needs-1-789x1024.jpg) *[View Larger Image](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2017_Report-Card_cumulative-infrastructure-needs-1.jpg)* --- ### [The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Breakdown](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-infrastructure-law-breakdown/) **Published:** October 4, 2022 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Breakdown The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is a five-year, $1.2 trillion federal infrastructure bill that was signed into law in November 2021. The bipartisan IIJA marks the country’s largest investment in infrastructure across all Report Card categories in nearly a century. This legislation is the culmination of decades of advocacy by American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) members. We worked tirelessly to educate Congress about the role infrastructure plays in supporting the economy and our quality of life. [View IIJA Project Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) ![Blue industrial pipe with a green 'Potable Water' label and white arrows indicating water flow at an outdoor facility.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/drinkingwater.jpg "Transfer Pipe in Water Purification Plant Holding Tanks Background") #### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-risk_0005_gettyimages-1162798306-2048x2048-copy.png "icon-2021-risk_0005_gettyimages-1162798306-2048x2048-copy")This bill includes investments to repair and modernize these critical assets for all 17 categories in the [2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) ### **that assigned our nation’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of ‘C-‘.** [View 2021 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) ### Infrastructure Law Projects Showing Progress Investments from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is beginning to spur improvements in America’s built environment. The IIJA, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has begun to reverse decades of underinvestment in our transportation and water systems. [See positive impacts from investment in infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iija-charts/) ## Roads, Bridges, and Transit in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law The IIJA, commonly known as the bipartisan infrastructure law, reauthorizes surface transportation programs with a 34% increase over previous levels. The law provides approximately $500 billion for roads and bridge programs in communities across America. Twenty-one new DOT grant programs are making targeted investments to [repair bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/), improve the resiliency of our [surface transportation system](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/), and more. Funds go a long way towards addressing the $1.2 trillion, 10-year surface transportation funding gap that ASCE identified in the 2021 Report Card. The infrastructure bill also contains approximately $90 billion in investment for transit programs in urban and rural regions. Transit systems across America – from rural bus service in Wyoming to the aging T system in Boston – will receive support to replace buses, build bus stops, replace tracks, and more. [View Bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) [View Transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) ## ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-infographic-water.png "icon-infographic water")Drinking Water and Wastewater in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Our nation’s [drinking water system](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) is made up of 2.2 million miles of underground pipes that, unfortunately, are aging and sometimes past the end of their service lives. The 2021 ASCE Report Card for America’s Infrastructure gave drinking water a C-, wastewater a D+, and stormwater a D grade. The Infrastructure Investment ad Jobs Act provides $55 billion to upgrade water infrastructure and replace lead service lines throughout the country – a necessity to ensure our communities continue receiving, safe reliable drinking water. Meanwhile, 81% of our 16,000 wastewater treatment plants are nearing capacity – 15% have already reached capacity. Wastewater infrastructure financing provided by the bipartisan infrastructure law will help rehabilitate and replace sewage pipes and add capacity to the system in areas that currently rely on septic systems for wastewater services. [View Drinking Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) ## Ports & Inland Waterways in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Our port infrastructure in this country is generally in good condition and earned a B- in the 2021 Report Card. Still, supply chain constraints show the importance of investing in capacity as freight volumes increase. Meanwhile, Inland Waterways earned a D+ in 2021, and much of the system is operating past its intended lifespan. The IIJA provides $17 billion of investment in [inland waterways and ports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/). These investments will ease supply chain bottlenecks, add capacity to the freight system, facilitate the movement of goods, and improve air quality around freight nodes. [View Ports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) [View Inland Waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) ## ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-infographic-air.png "icon-infographic air")Airports in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Many Americans have felt the discrepancy between air travel supply and air traveler demand in the form of flight delays and cancellations The bipartisan infrastructure law invests $25 billion in airports through three programs to modernize terminals, improve pavement conditions, and [keep passengers and freight moving](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/). [View Aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) ## Energy in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law We gave [America’s energy infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/)a C- grade. We found it particularly vulnerable to severe weather. Over 90% of outages occurred on the energy distribution system – the last mile that brings electricity to your house or business. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act assigns $73 billion to rebuild the electric grid and includes several provisions to reinforce the resilience of the electric grid. Specifically, there’s $5 billion over five years for projects, activities, technologies, equipment, and hardening measures that reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events. [View Energy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) ![Aerial view of Manhattan with a highlighted green waterfront park running along the river in color amidst a grayscale skyline.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/resilience-image1-copy.jpg "resilience-image1 copy") ## Resiliency in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law With an investment of over $50 billion, the 2021 IIJA makes communities safer and more resilient to the impact of climate change and cyberattacks. This includes funds to protect against droughts and floods in addition to major investments in weatherization. Investing in [resiliency](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/resilience/) measures can improve our infrastructure. By taking a proactive approach and strengthening our built environment *before* a disaster hits, implementing and enforcing codes and standards, prioritizing safety and security, and enhancing natural or “green” infrastructures, we can make America’s infrastructure more reliable and resilient. [View Resilience](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/resilience/) ### Keep up with the latest in US infrastructure news from the American Society of Civil Engineers. [View 2021 Report Card](/news-insights/blog/) ![Informational modal over a map titled 'Bridges Upgraded Across Maryland' with left column text about Maryland infrastructure and a right column video thumbnail of Governor Larry Hogan, MD.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/maps_0001_Layer-1.jpg "maps_0001_Layer 1") ## BIL Project Map — ### ASCE Use the map below to explore some of the projects in your state or region. [View Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) ![Map of the eastern U.S. with Pennsylvania highlighted; a pop-up shows Pennsylvania BIL funding $7.9B and shares: Transportation 76.33%, Climate/Energy 23.63%, Broadband 0%, Other 0.04%.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/mapwhitehouse.jpg "mapwhitehouse") ## Maps of Progress – ### The White House These maps shows how much funding has been announced for work within states, including a breakdown by category of funding. [View Map](#) --- ### [Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/twinportsarea/) **Published:** March 5, 2018 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### 2018 Report Card GPA: C ##### The infrastructure in the Twin Ports region merits an overall “C” grade. Our infrastructure is mediocre and requires increased attention. An expert team of over 20 civil engineers and industry professionals from 16 organizations was assembled to evaluate seven infrastructure categories of the Twin Ports area. The results have been reviewed and scrutinized by ASCE’s team of national experts, the Committee on America’s Infrastructure. As civil engineers, our job is to plan, design, build and maintain our infrastructure networks. We provide for safe modes of transportation at airports, bridges, ports and roads. We provide the public with safe drinking water and protect the public health by disposing of waste in a responsible manner. Without reliable infrastructure, forward looking maintenance programs and adequate funding sources from all levels of government, the Twin Ports region will lose its economic competitiveness. We have recent success stories in the region: new airport terminals and runways, the Highway 53 relocation project in Virginia, the Port of Duluth Intermodal Project, the Greater Minnesota Transportation Sales Tax, and many others. However, if we assume that the job is complete based on these success stories, we will not be in position to meet the many infrastructure challenges that we still face as a region. ASCE’s Code of Ethics states that “Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner” and that “Engineers shall hold paramount the safety, health and welfare of the public.” As such, we take the responsibility of our message in this inaugural Twin Ports Infrastructure Report Card seriously. We present this report card as a fulfillment of our public duty and to inform the public and our elected officials on the state of our region’s infrastructure. ##### **The overarching conclusion is that our region’s infrastructure is currently slightly better than the national average, but backsliding will occur in the next 5-10 years if infrastructure funding issues do not continue to be pushed to the forefront.** Click [here ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/2018-03-01-Final-DuluthBrochure2018.pdf)to read the Twin Ports Area’s Infrastructure Executive Summary. [Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/2018-03-10-Final-Report.pdf) ![Cover image for the 2018 Twin Ports Infrastructure Report Card by ASCE, featuring a riverfront construction site and the ASCE logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Twin-Ports.png "Twin Ports") ## Key Solutions ##### Our nation’s infrastructure problems are solvable if we have leadership and commit to making good ideas a reality. Raising the grades on our infrastructure will require that we seek and adopt a wide range of solutions. ###### [Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/#gap) We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s critical infrastructure systems. ###### [Leadership & Planning](/solutions/leadership-planning/) Smart investment will only be possible with leadership, planning, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure. ###### Preparing for the Future We have to utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure is more resilient. [View All Solutions](/solutions/) ![america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png "gc-title") [![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Inland Waterways Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/)[Discover More Infrastructure #GameChangers](/solutions/gamechangers#gc-tiles) ### Latest News Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. [See All News](/get-involved/latest-news/) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/get-involved/contact-us/) Download the Full 2017 Infrastructure Report Card [ Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2017-Infrastructure-Report-Card.pdf) --- ### [The Impact](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Infrastructure is the foundation that connects the nation’s businesses, communities, and people, driving our economy, and improving our quality of life. For the U.S. economy to be the most competitive in the world, we need a first-class infrastructure system – transport systems that move people and goods efficiently and at reasonable cost by land, water, and air; transmission systems that deliver reliable, low-cost power from a sustainable range of energy sources; and water systems that protect the public health. Yet today, our infrastructure systems are failing to keep pace with the current and expanding needs, and investment in infrastructure is woefully inadequate. Elected leaders on both sides of the political aisle need to make good on promises they have made to improve our nation’s infrastructure and ensure these pledges don’t fall by the wayside after each election cycle. ![pink upward trajectory icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-economic-89x78.png "icon-economic") ### Economic Impact [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/) ![orange lightning icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-failure-89x78.png "icon-failure") ### Failure to Act Report [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) ![blue paintbrush icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-infographic-89x78.png "icon-infographic") ### Explore Infographics [Explore](http:s//infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/) ![purple facts icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-facts-89x78.png "icon-facts") ### Charts, Facts, & Figures [Learn More](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/charts-facts-figures/) --- ### [State Infrastructure Facts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Find Your State Choose a State to See Infrastructure Facts:Choose by NameAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming [![]()![]()](/state-item/puerto-rico/) ![Icon with a question mark in the middle](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-question-89x78.png "Icon with a question mark in the middle") ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Local and State Report Cards ##### [Does my state have its own Infrastructure Report Card?](#1767125125048-76ddb7e3-7757046d-1002) **Forty states, D.C., and Puerto Rico** have published Infrastructure Report Cards in recent years, providing knowledge to state and local leaders who have made planning, [investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/), and regulatory decisions impacting transportation, water, and other infrastructure. ##### [How can I access my state’s report?](#1767127155236-fa695e38-e35e046d-1002) You can access your state’s infrastructure report card on the Infrastructure Report Card website’s [State Infrastructure page](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure) by clicking on your state in the map above. ##### [How do state and national report cards differ?](#1767127186856-73cd3c93-b0ce046d-1002) State report cards assess their state’s infrastructure based on the same eight criteria as the national report card, providing a localized assessment of the state’s infrastructure performance, key challenges that the state faces, and recommendations to raise the grade. However, not all state report cards assess the 18 categories included in the National Report Card. ##### [Can communities use the Report Card?](#1767127225316-cbbaff33-6046046d-1002) Communities can use their state report cards to learn more about infrastructure systems in their state, including key challenges and recommendations to raise the grade. Communities can use this as a resource to encourage their elected officials to make investments and enact policies to improve their infrastructure. --- ### [Riverside and San Bernardino Counties Inland Empire Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sbrivercounties/) **Published:** February 13, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### 2020 Report Card GPA: C Riverside and San Bernardino (Inland Empire) Counties are among the fastest growing areas in California. Not only is commercial and industrial development in the region booming, but these counties continue to provide affordable housing to families moving east from high-cost coastal cities. Riverside County is now the fourth largest County by population in California with more than two million people taking advantage of nearby mountains, hiking, bike trails, the Temecula wine country, and desert resorts. San Bernardino County is the largest county by area and in the United States (excluding boroughs in Alaska) with 20,105 square miles. The county is commonly divided into the valley, mountain, and desert regions, three distinct areas with different characteristics. The valley region contains most of the county’s incorporated areas and population, whereas the mountain region is primarily comprised of public lands and summer and winter resort towns such as Big Bear. The desert region is the largest region (approximately 93% of the county’s land area) and includes parts of the Mojave Desert. A sustainably constructed and well maintained infrastructure network is vital to supporting the entire Inland Empire and its varied industries and growing population. Thanks to major investments over the past 10 years, the regional transportation network has received some attention and improved levels of service. However, sustainable funding is needed to maintain these upgraded assets and also to shift attention to our deteriorating local streets. Meanwhile, solid waste collection, processing, and diversion, which are critical to maintaining a healthy environment in the Inland Empire, require continued maintenance. New waste diversion laws mandating increased organic diversion and composting will require an influx of investment in infrastructure for the collection, processing, and composting of organic materials. Finally, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure in the region is in good shape, water agencies are finding creative ways to optimize and maximize system capacity but aging infrastructure still needs some attention. The 2019 Inland Empire Report Card is designed to help residents and decision-makers understand the state of our infrastructure and prioritize necessary maintenance and sustainable improvements. This Report Card serves as a tool to start the conversation on how we can continue to improve our existing streets, airports, landfills, drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems, and be better prepared for future growth and climate change impacts to our region. [Download The Grades](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Brochure_InlandEmpire2020.pdf) [![Cover of the 2020 Inland Empire Infrastructure report card for Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, blue label on teal hexagon.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/IE-Cover.jpg "IE Cover")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Brochure_InlandEmpire2020.pdf) ## Key Solutions ##### Our nation’s infrastructure problems are solvable if we have leadership and commit to making good ideas a reality. Raising the grades on our infrastructure will require that we seek and adopt a wide range of solutions. ###### [Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/#gap) We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s critical infrastructure systems. ###### [Leadership & Planning](/solutions/leadership-planning/) Smart investment will only be possible with leadership, planning, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure. ###### Preparing for the Future We have to utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure is more resilient. [View All Solutions](/solutions/) ![america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png "gc-title") [![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Inland Waterways Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/)[Discover More Infrastructure #GameChangers](/solutions/gamechangers#gc-tiles) ### Latest News Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. [See All News](/get-involved/latest-news/) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/get-involved/contact-us/) Download the Inland Empire Report Card [ Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Brochure_InlandEmpire2020.pdf) --- ### [Northeast Ohio Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/northeastohio/) **Published:** February 19, 2019 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### Northeast Ohio’s 2019 Report Card GPA: D+ Every four years, America’s civil engineers provide a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s infrastructure in the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Infrastructure Report Card. Using a simple A to F school report card format, the Report Card examines current infrastructure conditions and needs, assigning grades and making recommendations to raise them. The most recent report card gave the infrastructure of the United States a cumulative grade point average of D+. In 2016, the Cleveland Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) initiated a similar effort focused on Northeast Ohio (NEO), forming the NEO Infrastructure Report Card Committee. For nearly 18 months, its members volunteered their time and expertise to visit public officials, examine various sources of data, and participate in monthly progress meetings. The committee included professional engineers from the private, public and academic sectors. Case Western Reserve University civil engineering students also assisted in the effort. Our findings about each infrastructure category we studied were peer reviewed by experts in the appropriate field and by ASCE. **Northeast Ohio’s Infrastructure has received a cumulative GPA of D+, a composite score of the seven key infrastructure categories evaluated. This report provides context and explains how the committee arrived at this grade.** [Download Executive Summary](/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NOH-Infrastructure-ReportCard-Brochure.pdf) [Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FullReport-NEO_2019_web.pdf) [![Aerial view of a snow-covered Northeast Ohio city with bridges over a river, plus the 2019 Report Card for Northeast Ohio's Infrastructure title and the ASCE Cleveland Section logo in the bottom right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/NEO-Cover-High-res.png "NEO Cover High res")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/FullReport-NEO_2019_web.pdf) ## Key Solutions ##### Our nation’s infrastructure problems are solvable if we have leadership and commit to making good ideas a reality. Raising the grades on our infrastructure will require that we seek and adopt a wide range of solutions. ###### [Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/#gap) We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s critical infrastructure systems. ###### [Leadership & Planning](/solutions/leadership-planning/) Smart investment will only be possible with leadership, planning, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure. ###### Preparing for the Future We have to utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure is more resilient. [View All Solutions](/solutions/) ![america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png "gc-title") [![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Inland Waterways Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/)[Discover More Infrastructure #GameChangers](/solutions/gamechangers#gc-tiles) ### Latest News Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. [See All News](/get-involved/latest-news/) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/get-involved/contact-us/) Download the Full 2017 Infrastructure Report Card [ Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2017-Infrastructure-Report-Card.pdf) --- ### [Acknowledgments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/acknowledgements/) **Published:** March 1, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![icon-support](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/icon-support-89x78.png "icon-support") ## Research & Support **ASCE would like to thank the following organizations for their assistance during the Report Card research and preparation process:** [21st Century Schools Fund](https://21csf.org/) [Accelerator for America](https://www.acceleratorforamerica.org/) [Airports Council International – North America](https://airportscouncil.org/) [American Association of Port Authorities](https://www.aapa-ports.org/) [American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials](https://transportation.org/) [American Public Transportation Association](http://www.apta.com/) [American Road & Transportation Builders Association](https://www.artba.org/) [American Short Line and Regional Rail Association](https://www.aslrra.org/) [Amtrak](https://www.amtrak.com/) [Association of State Drinking Water Administrators](https://www.asdwa.org/) [Association of American Railroads](https://www.aar.org/) [Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies](https://www.amwa.net/) [Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO)](https://astswmo.org/) [Association of State Dam Safety Officials](https://damsafety.org/) [Bureau of Transportation Statistics](https://www.bts.gov/) [City Parks Alliance](https://cityparksalliance.org/) [Congressional Research Service](https://crsreports.congress.gov/) [Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control](https://dnrec.delaware.gov/) [Eno Center for Transportation](https://enotrans.org/) [Environmental Protection Agency](https://www.epa.gov/) [Environmental Research and Education Foundation](https://erefdn.org/) [Federal Communications Commission](https://www.fcc.gov/) [Federal Highway Administration](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/) [Federal Railroad Administration](https://railroads.dot.gov/) [Federal Transit Administration](https://www.transit.dot.gov/) [Fiber Broadband Association](https://fiberbroadband.org/) [Inland Rivers, Ports, and Terminals, Inc.](https://www.irpt.net/) [Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy](https://itep.org/) [Maritime Administration](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/) [National Center for School Infrastructure](https://school-infrastructure.org/) [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) [National Recreation and Parks Association](https://www.nrpa.org/) [National Telecommunications and Information Administration](https://www.ntia.doc.gov/) [National Transportation Safety Board](https://www.ntsb.gov/Pages/home.aspx) [Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality](https://www.deq.ok.gov/) [Port of Long Beach](https://polb.com/) [Port Tampa Bay](https://www.porttb.com/) [The National Association of State Park Directors](https://www.stateparks.org/) [TRIP](https://tripnet.org/) [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers](https://www.usace.army.mil/) [U.S. Census Bureau](https://www.census.gov/) [U.S. Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/) [U.S. Geological Survey](https://www.usgs.gov/) [Washington State Department of Transportation](https://wsdot.wa.gov/) [Waterways Council, Inc.](https://waterwayscouncil.org/) [Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources](https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/) ![icon-support](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/icon-support-89x78.png "icon-support") ## Research & Support **ASCE would like to thank the following organizations for their assistance during the Report Card research and preparation process:** [21st Century Schools Fund](https://21csf.org/) [Accelerator for America](https://www.acceleratorforamerica.org/) [Airports Council International – North America](https://airportscouncil.org/) [American Association of Port Authorities](https://www.aapa-ports.org/) [American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials](https://transportation.org/) [American Public Transportation Association](http://www.apta.com/) [American Road & Transportation Builders Association](https://www.artba.org/) [American Short Line and Regional Rail Association](https://www.aslrra.org/) [Amtrak](https://www.amtrak.com/) [Association of State Drinking Water Administrators](https://www.asdwa.org/) [Association of American Railroads](https://www.aar.org/) [Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies](https://www.amwa.net/) [Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO)](https://astswmo.org/) [Association of State Dam Safety Officials](https://damsafety.org/) [Bureau of Transportation Statistics](https://www.bts.gov/) [City Parks Alliance](https://cityparksalliance.org/) [Congressional Research Service](https://crsreports.congress.gov/) [Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control](https://dnrec.delaware.gov/) [Eno Center for Transportation](https://enotrans.org/) [Environmental Protection Agency](https://www.epa.gov/) [Environmental Research and Education Foundation](https://erefdn.org/) [Federal Communications Commission](https://www.fcc.gov/) [Federal Highway Administration](https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/) [Federal Railroad Administration](https://railroads.dot.gov/) [Federal Transit Administration](https://www.transit.dot.gov/) [Fiber Broadband Association](https://fiberbroadband.org/) [Inland Rivers, Ports, and Terminals, Inc.](https://www.irpt.net/) [Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy](https://itep.org/) [Maritime Administration](https://www.maritime.dot.gov/) [National Center for School Infrastructure](https://school-infrastructure.org/) [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) [National Recreation and Parks Association](https://www.nrpa.org/) [National Telecommunications and Information Administration](https://www.ntia.doc.gov/) [National Transportation Safety Board](https://www.ntsb.gov/Pages/home.aspx) [Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality](https://www.deq.ok.gov/) [Port of Long Beach](https://polb.com/) [Port Tampa Bay](https://www.porttb.com/) [The National Association of State Park Directors](https://www.stateparks.org/) [TRIP](https://tripnet.org/) [U.S. Army Corps of Engineers](https://www.usace.army.mil/) [U.S. Census Bureau](https://www.census.gov/) [U.S. Department of Transportation](https://www.transportation.gov/) [U.S. Geological Survey](https://www.usgs.gov/) [Washington State Department of Transportation](https://wsdot.wa.gov/) [Waterways Council, Inc.](https://waterwayscouncil.org/) [Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources](https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/) ![icon-staff](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/icon-staff-89x78.png "icon-staff") ## ASCE Staff **The Infrastructure Report Card is prepared in collaboration between ASCE members and staff, and supported in part by the ASCE Foundation. Many thanks to the following staff members: Susan Blodgett Gordon Chaffin Carlos Condarco Wendy Dinwiddie Elisabeth Dorman Katrina Dunn Matt Fogleson Roxann Henze-Gongola Martin Hight Miranda Hosseini Jane Howell Lizzie Howell Eleanor Lamb Kevin Longley Rob Marmet Matt McGinn Forest Putnam Caroline Sevier Josh Shumaker Tom Smith Ben Walpole ![icon-staff](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/icon-staff-89x78.png "icon-staff") ## ASCE Staff **The Infrastructure Report Card is prepared in collaboration between ASCE members and staff, and supported in part by the ASCE Foundation. Many thanks to the following staff members: Susan Blodgett Gordon Chaffin Carlos Condarco Wendy Dinwiddie Elisabeth Dorman Katrina Dunn Matt Fogleson Roxann Henze-Gongola Martin Hight Miranda Hosseini Jane Howell Lizzie Howell Eleanor Lamb Kevin Longley Rob Marmet Matt McGinn Forest Putnam Caroline Sevier Josh Shumaker Tom Smith Ben Walpole ## ASCE would also like to thank: ESRI Anna Denecke Rebecca Faith Fleishman Hillard Emily Feenstra Ironistic Christine Prouty Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., F.ASCE Feniosky A. Peña-Mora, ScD., P.E., NAS, CCM, F.CIOB, NAC, Dist.M.Asce ## ASCE would also like to thank: ESRI Anna Denecke Rebecca Faith Marsha Anderson Bomar, Ph.D., AICP, ENV SP, F.ITE, F.ASCE Fleishman Hillard Emily Feenstra Ironistic Christine Prouty Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., F.ASCE Feniosky A. Peña-Mora, Sc.D, P.E., NAS, CCM, F.CIOB, NAC, Dist.M.ASCE --- ### [Kern County’s Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kerncounty/) **Published:** August 23, 2018 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### 2018 Report Card GPA: C Kern County is the 3rd largest geographically in California with 8,161 square miles – larger than Connecticut and Delaware combined. Bakersfield is the largest city and the county seat with 376,000 people. This makes Bakersfield the 9th largest city in California and the 52nd largest in the nation – larger than Cincinnati, Ohio, or St. Louis, Missouri. We are the largest agricultural producing county in California at more than $7 billion annually, and the 2nd largest oil producing county in the nation (4% of total U.S. oil production). Infrastructure is the backbone of our daily lives and communities. While we don’t always acknowledge it, the condition of our infrastructure has a very real impact on every person and business. We all depend on roads and bridges to get us where we are going, water infrastructure that delivers clean water to our taps, and a system of roads, rail, and transit to move goods and people that fuel our economy. An expert team of local civil engineers and industry professionals from public agencies, private consultants, and contractors were assembled to evaluate nine infrastructure categories of Kern County. The results have been reviewed and scrutinized by ASCE’s team of national experts, the Committee on America’s Infrastructure. **Thanks to major investments over the past 10 years, Kern County’s transportation network has increased capacity and improved levels of service, but sustainable funding is needed to maintain these upgraded assets.** The Thomas Roads Improvement Program and the Caltrans State Route widening project have increased capacity and helped maintain an acceptable level of service or better for Kern County residents. Additionally, the number of bridges requiring significant repair or upgrades decreased from 9.1% in 2008 to 2.5% in 2017, which is well below the national average. The funding provided by the state legislature through passage off the 2017 transportation package is helpful, but a local funding source must be identified to supplement state funding and sustain recent road and bridge improvements. **Transit and parks infrastructure have been shortchanged by recent budget cycles and must be prioritized going forward. In both cases, as existing revenue sources have remained constant or declined, costs have continued to rise.** Ten years ago, a full‐time parks employee would have been responsible for 9.2 acres, but today that same employee is responsible for 12.6 acres. Additional staff is needed to maintain the existing level of service. Meanwhile, public transit in Kern County GET & Kern Transit have invested in fleet upgrades over the last 10 years, but significant funding will be required in the coming years to accommodate potential growths in ridership and to meet anticipated state‐wide zero emission requirements. The Report Card was created to help Kern County residents understand the state of our infrastructure. As civil engineers, our job is to plan, design, construct, and maintain our infrastructure networks and this document allow us the opportunity to share that information with the public. The Report Card provides a snapshot for residents and policymakers to engage in conversation about where we are and where we want to be. We hope that this information provides the insight needed to start that conversation and ignite action. [Download Executive Summary](/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Brochure_Kern2018-Final.pdf) [Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018-Kern-County-Infrastructure-Report-Card-1.pdf) [![Kern County infrastructure report cover showing a bridge construction site with workers and a canal, 2018, ASCE Southern San Joaquin Branch poster on bottom edge.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Kern-County-Cover-e1537394239160.png "Kern County Cover")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/2018-Kern-County-Infrastructure-Report-Card-1.pdf) ## Key Solutions ##### Our nation’s infrastructure problems are solvable if we have leadership and commit to making good ideas a reality. Raising the grades on our infrastructure will require that we seek and adopt a wide range of solutions. ###### [Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/#gap) We can no longer afford to defer investment in our nation’s critical infrastructure systems. ###### [Leadership & Planning](/solutions/leadership-planning/) Smart investment will only be possible with leadership, planning, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure. ###### [Preparing for the Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/) We have to utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure is more resilient. [View All Solutions](/solutions/) ![america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png "gc-title") [![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Inland Waterways Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/)[Discover More Infrastructure #GameChangers](/solutions/gamechangers#gc-tiles) ### Latest News Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. [See All News](/get-involved/latest-news/) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/get-involved/contact-us/) Download the Full 2017 Infrastructure Report Card [ Download Report](/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/2017-Infrastructure-Report-Card.pdf) --- ### [#GameChangers: Innovative Infrastructure Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Think Big. Build Smart. ASCE has combed through successful infrastructure solutions across the major sectors to identify the most innovative #GameChangers. From Massachusetts to North Dakota to Oregon, private and public organizations are paving the way for the future. What we found was inspiring, and we are so excited to share these innovative infrastructure solutions with you. Below, you can see how L.A. is improving its port operations with a digitized shipping program, how Michigan and Missouri are utilizing modern technology to inspect their underwater infrastructure, how Maine is using geothermal energy to reduce costs and emissions, and how a startup in Georgia is using drones to clean the water supply. Imagine what more we could do if we seize the opportunity to replicate these cutting-edge, engineering breakthroughs. ## Discover American Infrastructure Solutions We have pages and pages of stories about how innovative infrastructure solutions are changing the game. Browse the articles below, which you can filter by category or state, or use our interactive map to find the #GameChangers infrastructure innovation that interests you. [LEARN MORE ABOUT GAMECHANGERS](#gc-tiles) ![gamechangers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/gc-cta.gif "gc-cta") Filter by:National CategoryAviationBridgesDamsDrinking WaterEnergyHazardous WasteInland WaterwaysLeveesPortsPublic ParksRailRoadsSchoolsSolid WasteStormwaterTransitWastewaterStateAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNevadaNew JerseyNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandTennesseeTexasUtahVirginiaWashingtonWisconsinWyoming[Clear](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers/)[![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Inland Waterways Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/)[![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-400x400.jpg "cf-energy3")Energy First Gas-Hydrogen Power Plant in the U.S. Makes Waves in Ohio](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/first-gas-hydrogen-power-plant-in-the-u-s-makes-waves-in-ohio/)[![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-400x400.jpg "cf-inlandwaterways")Stormwater Flood-Prone Town Uses Predictive Modeling to Protect Residents](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/flood-prone-town-uses-predictive-modeling-to-protect-residents/)[![bridge](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-bridge-5-400x400.jpg "cf-bridge-5")Bridges MDOT deploys unique technology to inspect underwater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/mdot-deploys-unique-technology-to-inspect-underwater-infrastructure/)[![towers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy1-400x400.jpg "cf-energy1")Energy Oregon city generates recoverable energy from underground water pipeline](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/oregon-city-generates-renewable-energy-from-underground-water-pipeline/)[![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-400x400.jpg "cf-roads2")Roads Recycled Roadways Paving the Future](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/recycled-roadways-paving-the-future/)[![port](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-port-400x400.jpg "cf-port")Ports Digitized shipping program improves efficiency at Port of Los Angeles](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/digitized-shipping-program-improves-efficiency-at-port-of-los-angeles/)1[2](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792338113.1948521137237548828125)[3](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-cron.php/page/3/?doing_wp_cron=1792338113.1948521137237548828125)…[15](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-cron.php/page/15/?doing_wp_cron=1792338113.1948521137237548828125)[Next »](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-cron.php/page/2/?doing_wp_cron=1792338113.1948521137237548828125) --- ### [Infrastructure Investment Forum Online](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-forum-online/) **Published:** January 15, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/InfraSolutionLogo-1024x375.png "InfraSolutionLogo") ## **Infrastructure Investment Forum** ### February 18, 2026 – 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. EST ### Programming begins at 9 a.m. #### Meridiam #### 1700 Pennsylvania Ave., NW #### Washington, DC Thanks for your RSVP to attend the event [broadcast on Zoom](https://zoom.us/j/92867342327?pwd=ofesV21tw7m00hcOPQTrWeRaXLTaxz.1). The full agenda and list of speakers is [available here](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rsvp/). ## Add this event to your calendar [Add to Outlook Calendar](https://outlook.office.com/calendar/0/deeplink/compose?subject=ASCE+Infrastructure+Investment+Forum+-+Online&body=Thanks+for+your+RVSP+to+attend+the+ASCE+Infrastructure+Investment+Forum+on+February+18,+2026.+You+can+view+the+event+here:+https://zoom.us/j/92867342327?pwd=ofesV21tw7m00hcOPQTrWeRaXLTaxz.1+Please+email+govwash@asce.org+if+you+have+any+questions.&startdt=2026-02-18T09:00:00-05:00&enddt=2026-02-18T12:00:00-05:00&location=Online "Add to Outlook Calendar") [Add to Google Calendar](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/render?action=TEMPLATE&text=ASCE+Infrastructure+Investment+Forum+-+Online&dates=20260218T140000Z/20260218T170000Z&details=Thanks+for+your+RVSP+to+attend+the+ASCE+Infrastructure+Investment+Forum+on+February+18,+2026.+You+can+view+the+event+here:+https://zoom.us/j/92867342327?pwd=ofesV21tw7m00hcOPQTrWeRaXLTaxz.1+Please+email+govwash@asce.org+if+you+have+any+questions.&location=Online "Add to Google Calendar") [Download Calendar Invite](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/asce-infrastructure_investment-forum-online.ics "Download Calendar Invite") --- ### [U.S. Infrastructure Grade: Explore the Categories](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-categories/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### The 2025 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* demonstrates that recent federal investments have positively affected many of the infrastructure sectors Americans rely on every day. As a result, incremental improvements were made across some of the historically lowest-graded categories in the Report Card. #### Almost half of the 18 assessed categories saw increased grades and contributed to an overall grade improvement from C- to C. This is promising momentum, but sustained infrastructure investments are necessary to equip stakeholders with certainty for long-term planning and execution of policies and projects that fully realize the benefits of robust resources The 2025 grades range from a B in ports to a D in stormwater and transit. For the first time since 1998, no Report Card categories were rated D−. Among the 18 categories assessed, eight saw grade increases. Many of those categories had been chronically stuck at D- or D for years. This improvement was possible due to the government and private sector prioritizing investments in systems that historically had received little attention. Two categories—energy and rail— were downgraded because of concerns related to capacity, future needs, and safety. Broadband was introduced as a graded category in 2025, coming in at a C+. Although evidence points to improvements throughout infrastructure’s system-of-systems, nine categories remained within the D range—a clear sign that more needs to be done to improve the health of America’s built environment. ## Trends We See in US Infrastructure Though distinct in function, the 18 infrastructure categories operate collectively to provide essential services for people and communities. Several key trends appeared in our review that indicate continued gaps despite recent infrastructure upgrades. The following trends are worth noting: 1. **Aging infrastructure systems are increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters and extreme weather events, creating unexpected and often avoidable risks to public safety and the economy.** Climate-related challenges are widespread, affecting even regions previously resistant to these events: floods become more intense and occur more often, hurricanes create higher wind loads, and wildfires encroach more unpredictably. Investments in resilient infrastructure are consistently proven to be an effective use of limited public dollars, because they reduce costs in the long term, especially by minimizing rebuilding needs after a significant event. For instance, by adopting the most up-to-date codes and standards, communities will be better equipped to handle disasters and more responsibly deploy public resources. 2. **Recent federal and state investments have had a positive impact, but the full force of increased funding will take years to realize. Sustained investment is key to providing certainty and ensuring planning goes to development, as well as making larger infrastructure projects attainable.** Before recent federal legislation, like 2021’s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), many of our infrastructure networks had been neglected for decades at the federal level. As time passed and investments failed to keep pace with demands, the backlog of maintenance projects grew. Meanwhile, **demands on infrastructure systems have intensified** apart from maintenance. Community expansion and usage trends, economic growth, unpredictable events, and new technologies have called for new plans and project design. These raised stakes require the federal government to continue prioritizing infrastructure investments. Therefore, federal decision-makers will need to preserve momentum from continued partnerships with state and local governments that match investments and facilitate planning. **Considering the extensive time it takes to study, design, and complete projects, sustained investment at current or higher funding levels will be necessary for infrastructure to continue to improve.** 3. **Unreliable or unavailable data on key performance indicators continues to impact certain infrastructure sectors.** Sectors like school facilities, broadband, energy, levees, stormwater, and public parks continue to lack extensive public data. Robust information on asset conditions, capacity, operations, safety, or resilience enables proactive public discussion on infrastructure. Many infrastructure categories lack a basic inventory of assets and therefore are unable to implement asset management practices. Data—publicly available, routine, and reliable—should be standard across all infrastructure sectors to target investments and allow decision-makers to wisely allocate limited funding to needs. Through enhanced data, both efficiency and effectiveness of assets can be better achieved. ## Challenges to Raise America’s Infrastructure Grade ASCE applauds Congress, state and local policymakers, and the private sector for demonstrating leadership over the past several years and prioritizing our nation’s infrastructure. Those investments are starting to have an impact, but our work is not yet complete. As decision-makers look to the future of America’s infrastructure, they should weigh the consequences of insufficient support in our most vital networks. For decades, investment at all levels of government and the private sector has failed to keep up with the increasing demands and projects necessary to reach a state of good repair. By incentivizing innovation and maintaining—or in some cases adding—investment, America will sustain recent momentum on our infrastructure systems and ensure they are built for the needs of the 21st century. ## Explore Categories [ ![Blue airplane icon indicating travel or flights]() Aviation ![aviation infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue line drawing of a suspension bridge with two towers and hanging cables, shown in a simple icon style.]() Bridges ![bridge infrastructure]() ![]() C ![]() C ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue Wi‑Fi signal icon indicating wireless internet connectivity]() Broadband ![Server rack with dense blue Ethernet cables connected to patch panels under labeled ports (D-089 to D-110).]() ![]() C+ ![]() C+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue abstract icon of a lighthouse with stylized waves on both sides.]() Dams ![dam infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue drinking glass icon filled with liquid up to about two-thirds full]() Drinking Water ![water infrastructure]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) [ ![energy infrastructure]() Energy ![energy infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) [ ![hazardous waste infrastructure]() Hazardous Waste ![hazardous waste infrastructure]() ![]() C ![]() C ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![inland waterways]() Inland Waterways ![us inland waterways]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) [ ![levees]() Levees ![US levees]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) [ ![port infrastructure]() Ports ![us port infrastructure]() ![]() B ![]() B ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) [ ![public parks]() Public Parks ![Public Parks]() ![]() C- ![]() C- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) [ ![rail infrastructure]() Rail ![rail infrastructure - train at a station in the city]() ![]() B- ![]() B- ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) [ ![road infrastructure]() Roads ![us roads - road infrastructure report]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) [ ![school infrastructure]() Schools ![school infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) [ ![solid waste infrastructure]() Solid Waste ![solid waste]() ![]() C+ ![]() C+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![stormwater infrastructure]() Stormwater ![stormwater infrastructure]() ![]() D ![]() D ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) [ ![transportation infrastructure]() Transit ![transit infrastructure]() ![]() D ![]() D ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) [ ![wastewater infrastructure]() Wastewater ![US Wastewater Infrastructure]() ![]() D+ ![]() D+ ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) [Download Grades Chart](/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Grades-One-Sheet-2025-Natl-IRC.pdf) ![Icon with a question mark in the middle](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-question-89x78.png "Icon with a question mark in the middle") ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Category-Specific Questions ##### [How is the transportation sector (roads, bridges, transit, etc.) performing?](#1767192146832-5a1e4992-4082c187-ff7f) The transportation sector generally receives at or lower grades compared to the report’s overall grade of a C. [Roads](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) (D+), [bridges](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) (C), [aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) (D+), and [transit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) (D) all fall at or less than the report’s grade, which is considered mediocre. [Rail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) is one of the highest graded categories receiving a B-. ##### [What’s the state of America’s water infrastructure?](#1767193637802-62650a68-8c4b) America’s water infrastructure is considered underperforming based in large part due to ongoing maintenance needs and continued safety concerns related to the rise of PFAS and other contaminants. [Drinking water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/), [wastewater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/), and [stormwater](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) are all graded at D+ or lower. ##### [What are the grades for schools, energy, and broadband access?](#1767193670803-ab32689b-ddd7) Both [schools](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) and [energy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) received a D+ in the 2025 Report Card. [Broadband](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) was assigned a C+ in the first year of being a graded category. ##### [How are climate resilience and sustainability addressed in the Report Card?](#1767193692571-7336bded-69d0) Resilience is one of eight key criteria used to assess infrastructure performance and assign grades to each category. ##### [Are rural infrastructure needs evaluated separately?](#1767193713572-7b3ece55-17c3) No, the report evaluates each category as one network and does not distinguish or base the assessment between urban, suburban, and rural communities. --- ### [Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/) **Published:** April 5, 2024 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Recommendations to Raise the Grade To raise America’s infrastructure grades over the next four years, ASCE urges a comprehensive agenda that sustains investment, prioritizes resilience, and advances forward-thinking policies and innovations. **Continued—and in some cases, increased—investment** is necessary despite recent resources slowing the growth of America’s infrastructure investment gap. Reducing federal and state investment levels, or delaying that support, will escalate the costs and risks of an aging infrastructure system, a scenario American families and businesses cannot afford. Infrastructure investments must be made with consideration of a project’s full life cycle, including the impact of more frequent extreme weather. Public safety and efficient use of public dollars are advanced by building projects that can withstand increasingly severe weather events and natural and man-made hazards. Therefore, **the implementation of best practices for resilience** when planning across a project’s intended life cycle is critical. To realize the benefits of recent infrastructure investments, we must **advance forward-thinking policies and innovations** necessary to build systems today that will provide clean drinking water, ensure safer transportation systems, and produce reliable electricity and broadband over the next 100 years. **Jump to: [Sustain Investment](#sustain-investment) \| [Prioritize Resilience](#resilience) \|** [**Advance Policy and Innovation**](#advance-policy) ## Sustain Investment Since ASCE last assessed the condition of the nation’s infrastructure systems, Congress passed two sweeping packages to improve the networks that move people and goods across the country, provide clean drinking water to millions of Americans, and ensure that households and businesses have reliable electricity. One of those measures, the 2021 IIJA, set a new standard for federal infrastructure spending. However, the legislation will expire in 2026, and Congress will decide how programs under the IIJA will be funded going forward. IIJA and Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) $580 billion in new investment has provided an initial and consequential step in bridging the funding gap between the nation’s infrastructure needs and preexisting support. The use of financing options to leverage public dollars, like tax-exempt municipal bonds, continues to increase, and private equity plays an increasingly important financing role. Government decisions will support or stymie our momentum on infrastructure. A decline in funding from levels in the IIJA and IRA would cost taxpayers and businesses. American households should expect to pay an average of $700 more annually over the next 20 years if federal infrastructure investment snaps back to levels from before those laws.5 Municipal bonds may also lose investor appeal if Congress adjusts their tax-exempt status. If the U.S. is serious about achieving an infrastructure system fit for the future, necessary steps must be taken that start with continued, long-term investment. Infrastructure improvements are time-intensive, often requiring multiple years to distribute resources and develop projects from feasibility study to design, on to shovels in the ground, and eventually to grand openings. To close the $3.7 trillion 10-year investment gap, meet future needs, and restore our global competitive advantage, we must sustain, or in many cases increase, infrastructure funding and financing options across all levels of government and the private sector. ### Infrastructure Investments must be consistently and wisely allocated, beginning with the following steps: ![Blue price-tag badge with a white checkmark and a dollar sign, indicating verified payment or approved price.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sustain-investment.png "sustain-investment") - Congress should maintain investment levels provided by the IIJA when the law expires in 2026 and fully fund authorized programs during the annual appropriations process. - Infrastructure owners and operators must charge rates reflecting the true cost of using, maintaining, and improving infrastructure. They will need to educate the public on the actual cost to deliver those services so they can understand set rates. - Federal, state, and local governments should expand the use of public–private partnerships for appropriate projects and find opportunities to leverage additional financing tools. - Congress must reinstate confidence in critical infrastructure programs by addressing the long-term viability of the Highway Trust Fund and ensuring that the State Revolving Funds for Clean Watersheds and Drinking Water are not experiencing revenue losses due to Congressionally designated projects. - Project owners should include life-cycle costs associated with planning, financing, designing, constructing, operating, maintaining, and decommissioning projects to properly evaluate the full infrastructure cost and the need to plan for the total cost over a project’s lifespan to get the most value out of their investments. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/i1.png) ### Raising the Grade Investment Solutions that Work Select a Solution Chapter Aviation Bridges Broadband Dams Drinking Water Energy Hazardous Waste Inland Waterways Levees Ports Public Parks Rail Roads Schools Solid Waste Stormwater Transit Wastewater ## Prioritize Resilience Across the U.S., disasters of greater intensity, duration, and frequency have wreaked havoc on communities of every size and location. In 2024, a total of 27 extreme weather events caused 568 deaths and over $182 billion in damages; since 1980, the U.S. has experienced 403 events amounting to at least $1 billion in damages with a total cost exceeding $2.9 trillion. In addition to life and property losses, disasters strike assets across the infrastructure network, including buildings, roads, bridges, electrical lines, water resources, and rail. Severe flooding, wind, fire, snow, ice, and earthquakes damage and destroy these critical lifelines for residents, businesses, and communities at large. Measures to mitigate the impacts of natural disasters have led to an increased focus on resilience. The costs associated with building stronger infrastructure and structures demonstrate prudent investment. Every dollar spent on resilience and preparedness saves communities $13 in post-disaster costs, according to a 2024 study. More work is needed to integrate resilience that protects against the impacts of extreme weather events. Better outcomes can be realized in disaster recovery and response through project planning and development that prioritizes resilience. This practice enables policymakers to ensure public dollars are used efficiently over a project’s lifespan. ### Advancements in resilience across all infrastructure sectors can be made by: ![Blue approval badge featuring a white checkmark over an orange circle, with lines suggesting text and a simple white house icon on a blue background, indicating verified home eligibility or approval.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/prioritize-resilience.png "prioritize-resilience") - Enabling communities, regardless of size, to develop and institute their own resilience pathway across all infrastructure portfolios. This is accomplished by streamlining asset management, incorporating life-cycle cost analysis into routine planning processes, and integrating future conditions, factoring climate impacts into long-term goal-setting and capital improvement plans. - Incentivizing and enforcing the use of the most up-to-date codes and standards, which mitigate risks of major events such as floods, hurricanes, fires, sea level rise, and more. - Encouraging asset management practices to ensure investments are spent wisely. - Understanding that our infrastructure is a system-of-systems and encouraging a dynamic, “big picture” perspective that weighs trade-offs across infrastructure sectors while instilling safety from resilience as the highest priority. - Prioritizing projects that improve the sustainability, safety, and security of systems and communities to ensure continued reliability and enhanced resilience. - Improving land-use planning across all levels of decision-making to strike a balance between the built and natural environments. - Enhancing the resilience of various infrastructure sectors by including nature-based or “green” infrastructure solutions. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/i1.png) ### Raising the Grade Resilience Solutions that Work Select a Solution Chapter Aviation Bridges Broadband Dams Drinking Water Energy Hazardous Waste Inland Waterways Levees Ports Public Parks Rail Roads Schools Solid Waste Stormwater Transit Wastewater ## Advance Policy and Innovation Infrastructure improvements rely on both public and private sectors to address needs and advance solutions. Policies provide a basis for projects to be integrated in communities, states, and regions, and those policies should be responsive to the needs of the public and encourage both safety and innovation. To do this effectively, cooperation across all levels of government and the private sector is paramount for a successfully integrated infrastructure network. As engineers work to deliver the infrastructure of the future, new policies will need to accommodate emerging societal trends and environmental conditions, as well as incorporate forward-thinking innovations that can expedite project delivery and enhance safety. Furthermore, policies must recognize and address the need to reduce delays in the project permitting process and ensure that the U.S. has the workforce required to build the infrastructure necessary for the 21st century and beyond. ### Policymakers and Infrastructure Leaders must work together to: ![Blue certification badge showing a globe with a hammer and a white checkmark over an orange circle, symbolizing global approval.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/advance-policy.png "advance-policy") - Innovate policies and practices across all levels of government that address common issues in project development and delivery across infrastructure sectors, locations, and environmental conditions. - Assess current government permitting processes, identify “pain points,” and inform strategies to modernize compliance across all infrastructure sectors—working in parallel rather than series—while ensuring appropriate safeguards and protections are in place. - Address the engineering and construction workforce shortage by implementing strategies and policies that recognize both short-term and long-term recruitment and retention challenges, as well as prioritize STEM opportunities in K-12 education. - Ensure reliable data is collected and released to the public frequently regarding the condition, capacity, operations, maintenance, safety, and resilience of all infrastructure systems. - Leverage proven and emerging technologies to make the best use of limited financial and personnel resources. - Support research and development of innovative materials, technologies, and processes to modernize and extend the life of infrastructure, expedite repairs or replacements, and reduce costs into the future. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/i1.png) ### Raising the Grade Policy and Innovation Solutions that Work Select a Solution Chapter Aviation Bridges Broadband Dams Drinking Water Energy Hazardous Waste Inland Waterways Levees Ports Public Parks Rail Roads Schools Solid Waste Stormwater Transit Wastewater [Donate Now](https://www.ascefoundation.org/how-to-give/online-gift) [Become a Member](https://www.asce.org/membership/join) ![Icon with a question mark in the middle](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/icon-question-89x78.png "Icon with a question mark in the middle") ## Frequently Asked Questions #### Involvement and Impact ##### [What role does the Infrastructure Report Card play in policymaking?](#1767125125048-76ddb7e3-77577e33-90a4) The Infrastructure Report Card provides policymakers with an independent, data-driven assessment of the nation’s infrastructure. It highlights current conditions, investment needs, and priority areas, helping inform legislation, funding decisions, and long-term planning. ##### [How can engineers, students, or citizens get involved in the Report Card?](#1767127155236-fa695e38-e35e7e33-90a4) Engineers, students, and citizens can get involved by volunteering with their state Infrastructure Report Card committee to help collect data and analyze conditions. They can also become an ASCE Key Contact to build relationships with elected officials and share insights on infrastructure needs, or serve as an Advocacy Captain to lead grassroots efforts and mobilize support for investment. Additionally, sharing the Report Card with community leaders, participating in local events, and using social media to raise awareness are great ways to make an impact. For more information and to sign up, visit ASCE’s advocacy and involvement page. ##### [How can media outlets or educators use the Report Card data?](#1767127186856-73cd3c93-b0ce7e33-90a4) The Report Card offers credible, nonpartisan information that supports informed reporting and education on critical infrastructure issues. Media outlets and educators can use the Report Card data to illustrate infrastructure challenges, provide context for news stories or classroom discussions, and highlight the importance of investment. ##### [How has the Report Card changed over the years?](#1767127225316-cbbaff33-60467e33-90a4) Every four years since 1998, ASCE has prepared a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s major infrastructure categories in its Infrastructure Report Card. The categories included have grown over the years, with the 2021 report being the first to include stormwater, totaling 17 categories, plus a spotlight on broadband internet. The 2025 report card included broadband as a graded category, totaling 18. --- ### [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) **Published:** January 11, 2022 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## A one-stop shop for understanding and tracking implementation of the bipartisan infrastructure law. This ASCE member-only resource includes legislative analysis, a list of open grant applications, opportunities to weigh in on implementation, and a schedule of upcoming funding distribution cycles (coming soon). The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is a five-year, $1.2 trillion infrastructure package that was signed into law in November, 2021. The bipartisan IIJA marks the country’s largest investment in infrastructure across all Report Card categories in nearly a century. #### [ROADS & BRIDGES](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-roads-bridges/) #### [TRANSIT & RAIL](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-transit-rail/) #### [PORTS & INLAND WATERWAYS](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-ports-inland-waterways/) #### [ENERGY](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-energy/) #### [AIRPORTS](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-airports/) #### [DAMS & LEVEES](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-dams-levees/) #### [DRINKING WATER, WASTEWATER & STORMWATER](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-drinking-water-wastewater-stormwater/) #### [BROADBAND, PARKS, SCHOOLS, HAZ WASTE & SOLID WASTE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/resource-center-broadband-parks-schools-hazardous-waste-solid-waste/) #### [JEDI (JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY & INCLUSION)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-justice-equity-diversity-inclusion/) ![Informational modal over a map titled 'Bridges Upgraded Across Maryland' with left column text about Maryland infrastructure and a right column video thumbnail of Governor Larry Hogan, MD.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/maps_0001_Layer-1.jpg "maps_0001_Layer 1") ## Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Project Map Use the map to explore some of the projects in your state or region. [View Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) --- ### [Test page](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/test-page/) **Published:** June 23, 2025 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [2025 Release Event & Solutions Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-release-event/) **Published:** January 20, 2025 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* was released on March 25, 2025, at Planet Word Museum in Washington, D.C. Following the release, ASCE held its Solutions Summit with industry leaders and officials from all levels of government to discuss the next steps to ensure America’s infrastructure grades keep rising and the importance of ongoing investment in the systems every American depends on. #### [Featured Speakers](#1741019752689-bf39fe89-921d) ![Smiling man in a dark suit and red tie, with an American flag in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/sam-graves-headshot.jpg "sam-graves-headshot") **Congressman Sam Graves** 6th District of Missouri Chairman, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee ![Professional portrait of a gray-haired man in a dark suit and red tie, posing in front of a bookshelf-lined background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/senator-sheldon-whitehouse.jpg "senator-sheldon-whitehouse") **Senator Sheldon Whitehouse** Rhode Island Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works ![Smiling man in a dark suit and striped tie, with an American flag in the background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/rep-rick-larsen.jpg "rep-rick-larsen") **Rep. Rick Larsen** 2nd District of Washington Ranking Member, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. ![Head-and-shoulders portrait of a bald man with a full beard in a dark suit, white shirt, purple tie, and a lapel pin against a gray background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/garrett-eucalitto-headshot.jpg "garrett-eucalitto-headshot") **Garrett Eucalitto** Commissioner, Connecticut Deptartment of Transportation President, American Association of Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) ![Professional head-and-shoulders portrait of a man with dark hair and mustache, wearing glasses, a dark suit, white shirt, and plaid tie, against a gray background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/aftab-khan-headshot.png "aftab-khan-headshot") **Aftab Khan** Executive Vice President – Operations, Planning, & Security, PJM Interconnections ![Woman with short blond hair, wearing an orange blazer and striped top, arms crossed, smiling against a light gray background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/amy-bunszel.png "amy-bunszel") **Amy Bunszel** Executive Vice President of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction, Autodesk ![Professional head-and-shoulders portrait of a smiling man in a navy suit, light blue shirt, and teal tie.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/joe-oliver.png "joe-oliver") **Joe Oliver** Managing Director, Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory #### [Solutions Summit Agenda](#1741019752709-bd32b8bb-84d6) | **Time** | **Session** | |---|---| | **8:00 a.m.** | **Doors Open** | | **8:15 – 8:45 a.m.** | **Breakfast** | | **8:45 – 8:50 a.m.** | **Welcome**- Dr. Feniosky A. Pena-Mora, President, American Society of Civil Engineers | | **8:50 – 9:20 a.m.** | **Report Card for America’s Infrastructure Grade Reveal**- Darren Olson, Chair, ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure | | **9:20 – 9:35 a.m.** | **Keynote Address**- Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (RI), Ranking Member, Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works | | **9:35 – 10:05 a.m.** | **Raising the Grade: Solutions for Improving America’s Infrastructure**- Kristina Swallow, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Assistant City Manager, City of Tucson, AZ - Greg DiLoreto, Past-President American Society of Civil Engineers and Former Chief Executive Officer, Tualatin Valley Water District, Beaverton, OR - Norma Jean Mattei, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Past Chair at the University of New Orleans Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering - Maria Lehman, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and U.S. Infrastructure Market Leader, GHD - Darren Olson, Chair, Committee on America’s Infrastructure | | **10:05 – 10:30 a.m.** | **The Future of American Infrastructure**- Rep. Sam Graves, (MO-6), Chair, House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee - Carol Haddock, Vice Chair, ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure | | **10:30 – 11:00 a.m.** | **American Made: How U.S. Manufacturing is Driving Infrastructure**- Benjamin Pickett, Executive Vice President of Business Services, Nucor - Dr. Feniosky A. Pena-Mora, President, American Society of Civil Engineers | | **11:00 – 11:30 a.m.** | **Powering America: Solutions to Improve the Energy Grid** - Aftab Khan, Executive Vice President – Operations, Planning, & Security, PJM Interconnections - Michael Miller, Vice President of Technical Services, Exo - Adrien Ford, Wholesale Market Development Director, Constellation - Otto Lynch, Vice President and Head of Power Line Systems, Bentley Systems | | **11:30 – 11:45 a.m.** | **Keynote Address**- Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-2), Ranking Member, House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure | | **11:45 – 11:50 a.m.** | **Executive Remarks (Video)**- Gov. Kevin Stitt, Oklahoma - Gov. Wes Moore, Maryland | | **11:50 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.** | **The Future of Infrastructure: How Technology and Innovation is Shaping Project Delivery**- Amy Bunszel, Executive Vice President, Architecture, Engineering, and Construction, Autodesk - Tom Smith, Executive Director, American Society of Civil Engineers | | **12:20 – 1:00 p.m.** | **Lunch** | | **1:00 – 1:30 p.m.** | **Addressing the Infrastructure Investment Gap: Exploring Solutions for Funding and Finance**- Joe Oliver, Managing Director and Government & Public Services Infrastructure & Financial Advisory Offering Leader, Deloitte - Jon Phillips, Chief Executive Officer, Global Infrastructure Investor Association (GIIA) - Nathan Macek, Infrastructure Finance Director, HDR - Maria Lehman, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and U.S. Infrastructure Market Leader, GHD | | **1:30 – 2:00 p.m.** | **The Road Ahead: Solutions to Improve the Nation’s Transportation Network**- Barry Schoch, Senior Vice President, KCI Technologies, Inc. - Garrett Eucalitto, Commissioner, CT Department of Transportation & President, American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) - Jason Terreri, Executive Director, Syracuse Regional Airport Authority & Chair, US Policy Council, Airports Council International - Paul P. Skoutelas, Chief Executive Officer & President, American Public Transportation Association (APTA) - Kristina Swallow, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Assistant City Manager, City of Tucson, AZ | | **2:00 – 2:30 p.m.** | **Connecting America: Solutions to Improve the Nation’s Broadband Network**- Jake Varn, Associate Manager, Broadband Access Initiative, The Pew Charitable Trusts - Dr. Tamarah Holmes, Director of Broadband, Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development - Ray LaMura, President, Broadband Association of Virginia (VCTA) - Ed Barrett, President, Broadband Business Line, HR Green | | **2:30 – 3:00 p.m.** | **Ensuring Safe and Reslient Water Systems: Solutions to Address the Nation’s Water Needs**- Traci Minamide, Principal, CDM Smith - Dr. Anna Pridmore, Senior Vice President, Water & Wastewater, Structural Technologies - Kishia Powell, General Manager & Chief Executive Officer, WSSC Water - Greg DiLoreto, Past-President of the American Society of Civil Engineers and Former Chief Executive Officer, Tualatin Valley Water District, Beaverton, OR | | **3:00 – 3:30 p.m.** | **Navigating the Flow: Solutions to Improve the Nation’s Water Resources Assets**- Brigadier General John P. Lloyd, Commander and Division Engineer, North Atlantic Division, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Jonathan Daniels, Executive Director, Maryland Ports Authority and Port of Baltimore - Joe Spadea, Associate Vice President for the District of Columbia Transportation Region and FX Studios Visualization Practice Lead, Pennoni - Norma Jean Mattei, Past-President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Past Chair at the University of New Orleans Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering | | **3:30 p.m.** | **Closing Remarks**- Tom Smith, Executive Director, American Society of Civil Engineers | #### [Speaker Biographies](#1742851696997-1d632239-f4c7) ### Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse Whitehouse is the Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and Co-Chair of the Caucus on International Narcotics Control, and also serves as a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, the Budget Committee, and the Finance Committee. A graduate of Yale University and the University of Virginia School of Law, Sheldon served as Rhode Island’s U.S. Attorney and state attorney general before being elected to the Senate in 2006. He and his wife Sandra, a marine biologist and environmental advocate, live in Newport. They have two grown children. ### Rep. Sam Graves Congressman Sam Graves is a lifelong resident of Missouri’s Sixth Congressional District. As a small businessman and a sixth-generation family farmer, Sam has spent his life working to make Missouri a better place to live, work, and raise a family. In Congress, Sam serves as the Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. As Chairman, Sam leads the Committee as it has jurisdiction over all modes of transportation – our aviation system, highways and bridges, transit and rail transportation, pipelines, and maritime and waterborne transportation. Sam’s role in transportation is critical as he works on behalf of Missouri’s 34,000 highway miles and 10,400 bridges in need of maintenance and repair as well as the 6th Congressional District’s two major rivers – the Missouri and the Mississippi. Sam is also a member of the House Committee on Armed Services. Missouri has a $15 billion military footprint and plays a critical role in ensuring our troops have the resources they need. Sam remains determined to protect Missouri’s various military installations and all of the brave men and women who serve in uniform. ### Rep. Rick Larsen U.S. Representative Rick Larsen is in his thirteenth term serving Washington’s Second Congressional District, which includes portions of Snohomish County and all of Skagit, Whatcom, Island and San Juan counties. As the lead Democrat on the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, Rick is focused on making bold, long-term investments in infrastructure to create more jobs and build a cleaner, greener, safer and more accessible transportation network. Thanks to Rick’s leadership, $8.2 billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding has been invested in Washington state infrastructure as of January 2024, with more than 600 specific projects identified for funding statewide. Rick is focused on protecting Washington’s environment. He leads efforts to preserve public lands, restore salmon habitat, protect Southern Resident killer whales and migratory birds, and combat climate change through investments in clean energy and green jobs. Larsen supported the *Inflation Reduction Act*, the largest investment to combat climate change in U.S. history. ### Ed Barrett Ed has more than 15 years of telecommunications experience working with carriers and local communities nationwide. He currently serves as the President of HR Green’s Broadband Business Unit. In this role, Ed has worked with clients across the U.S., ranging from the smallest of small towns to million-plus urban regions who are studying and implementing broadband solutions as a way to enhance the lives of their constituents and grow into the Gigabit Economy. This includes engaging with clients throughout the entire project lifecycle from planning and visioning to design, construction, and deployment. Ed is a sought-after subject matter presenter on broadband and fiber topics at national and regional conferences. ### Arlene Bohner Arlene is head of Fitch’s U.S. Public Finance department. In this role, she leads an experienced, national team responsible for analytical coverage of a wide range of tax-exempt issuers, including state and local governments, hospitals and life plan communities, higher education and nonprofit institutions, public power and water & sewer utilities, and housing authorities. In addition to assigning and maintaining credit ratings, the group is responsible for research and commentary across these sectors, as well as criteria development. Arlene joined Fitch in 2010. Prior to joining Fitch, Arlene was a principal at MuniPro, a consulting firm providing credit-related services to commercial banks, rating agencies and bond insurers. She also served as vice president and senior credit officer at Moody’s Investors Service, covering tax-supported and revenue-supported credits in the Great Lakes and Northeast regions. ### Amy Bunzel As executive vice president, Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Solutions, Amy leads product and industry strategy, as well as software development for Autodesk’s AEC design and make solutions including the Autodesk AEC Collection, Autodesk Forma, AutoCAD family, Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Civil 3D, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and more. With over 30 years of experience innovating software products across the architecture, engineering, and construction, manufacturing and media and entertainment industries, Amy inspires innovative strategy while driving large-scale agile software development around the globe. Amy combines her roots as a start-up co-founder with deep product management knowledge and large-scale product execution expertise to build high-performing teams focused on delivering value to their customers. Amy transformed the company’s best-selling AutoCAD product to a modern multi-platform offering that serves as the backbone of the company’s subscription business and led a global team in developing and delivering desktop, web and mobile apps that have been adopted by millions of design and engineering professionals worldwide. In her present role, she is building on her track record of modernizing beloved software across Autodesk’s AEC design and make product portfolios. Before joining Autodesk, Amy co-founded Linius Technologies in 1996. The company delivered wire harness design software to the manufacturing industry. Its technology was integrated with Autodesk’s Inventor 3D mechanical design software when Autodesk acquired the company in 2003. ### Jonathan Daniels Jonathan assumed his position as the new Executive Director of the Maryland Port Administration (MPA) and the Port of Baltimore. Shortly thereafter, he was tested by the unexpected crisis of the Key Bridge collapse, but quickly proved that the Port is in good hands under his steady leadership. Daniels brings to his position 30 years of port and economic development experience, as well as a cheerful can-do attitude and a vision to not only keep the Port growing but make it a true leader in the maritime industry — all while ensuring that local communities are partners in making the Port’s growth beneficial and sustainable. Daniels comes to Maryland after serving as Director and CEO at Port Everglades in Broward County, FL, where he led a $3 billion plan to expand business lines in containers, energy and cruise activity. Prior to working at Port Everglades, Daniels was Executive Director and CEO for the Mississippi State Port Authority and oversaw a $570 million expansion and reconstruction project. He also worked for the Port of Oswego in New York and the Eastern Maine Development Corporation. ### Kathryn de Wit Kathryn directs Pew’s broadband access initiative, which works to accelerate efforts to connect millions of Americans to affordable, reliable high-speed internet. In addition to working with policymakers, researchers, and other stakeholders to improve policy outcomes, Kathryn’s work also includes addressing research gaps and bringing together stakeholders for data-driven discussions about how to ensure that every American benefits from universal connectivity. Before joining Pew, de Wit was an associate with Booz Allen Hamilton, where she focused on broadband deployment, organizational management, and public affairs. She was also a senior fellow with the Heinz Endowments, leading projects on youth philanthropy and community engagement. ### Greg DiLoreto Greg is the past Chair of the ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure, responsible for ASCE’s Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, a leading indicator of the health of America’s infrastructure. A past president of ASCE and the former CEO of the Tualatin Valley Water District in metropolitan Portland, Oregon, Greg is frequently called on by the national media, Congress, and international organizations to provide insight into the pressing infrastructure issues facing the country. An industry veteran and engineering professional for nearly 50 years, Greg holds a BS degree in civil engineering from Oregon State University, and a master’s degree in public administration from Portland State University. Greg also serves on the boards of several infrastructure advisory committees in the Portland area. ### Garrett Eucalitto Garrett was nominated by Governor Ned Lamont and confirmed by the legislature as Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) in January 2023. He serves on the Executive Committee and chairs the Planning Committee of the Northeast Corridor Commission; chairs the state’s Vision Zero Council; sits on the Board of Directors of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials; and serves as the state’s Governor’s Highway Safety Representative. From January 2020 until January 2023, he served as the Deputy Commissioner of CTDOT. In this role, he oversaw CTDOT’s Bureaus of Finance & Administration, Policy & Planning, and Public Transportation. Prior to joining CTDOT, he was Transportation Program Director for the National Governors Association (NGA) in Washington, DC. In this capacity, he was responsible for assisting the nation’s 55 governors (states, territories, and commonwealths) in advancing their policy objectives in transportation, including combating impaired driving and improving safety on the roadways, the implementation of innovative financing tools, transit-oriented development, and accelerating electrification of the transportation sector. ### Adrien Ford Adrien currently serves as the Wholesale Market Development Director in PJM for Constellation Energy. In that capacity, Ford manages Constellation’s wholesale policy development and advocacy in the PJM region to ensure outcomes that are aligned with Constellation’s business strategy. Ms. Ford works closely with the various business units within Constellation to understand the needs of the corporation and how market policies can be shaped to further Constellation’s clean, reliable, and affordable electricity goals. Ms. Ford has worked in the electric power industry for 25 years, and in that time developed an understanding of market dynamics in both regulated and deregulated energy markets in the United States and Europe. Ms. Ford holds a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering with a Thermal Systems Emphasis and a Certificate in Marketing from the Georgia Institute of Technology. ### Bill Hanson Bill is the Senior Vice President – Market Development for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. He is a 44 year veteran of the dredging and maritime construction industry, Bill has been with GLDD for 34 years and a Vice President since 2004. In 2013, he opened GLDD’s first office in Washington DC. Bill began his career with the US Army Corps of Engineers in Galveston and Los Angeles, and then worked for Connolly Pacific of Long Beach, California before joining GLDD in 1988. At GLDD, he served in management roles in the North Atlantic and Southern Divisions as well as managing Latin America for 12 years. Bill serves on several Federal Advisory committees as well as on boards of groups with national and regional interest to GLDD, and several academic advisory boards related to ocean and coastal engineering. He is a 1979 Ocean Engineering graduate of Texas A&M, where he was named a distinguished alumni in 2013. ### Tamarah Holmes Tamarah Holmes, Ph.D., is the director for the Office of Broadband at DHCD and has been in the role since September 2019. She has spent over 20 years in the public sector in the field of community and economic development in New York, New Jersey, and Chesterfield, Virginia. Dr. Holmes has played an instrumental role in the creation of the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI), leading the development of the program that has grown from a $1 million to a $750 million appropriation since 2017. She is responsible for coordinating efforts across the Commonwealth to invest an additional $1.48 Billion in federal funds from the Broadband, Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program and $18 million in Digital Equity State Capacity program allocated under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to close the digital divide. In addition to serving as director, she serves as the Virginia Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) program manager, overseeing ARC’s economic and community development programming in 25 counties and 8 independent cities in the Appalachian region of Virginia. ### Aftab Khan As a member of PJM’s Executive Team, Aftab works closely with PJM’s CEO, other Executive Team members, and the Reliability & Security Committee of the PJM Board to coordinate PJM’s grid operations and transmission planning, ensure both cybersecurity and physical security for the organization, and oversee business continuity efforts. AHe previously served as Senior Vice President of Engineering with Eversource Energy, the utility serving 4 million customers in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire, where he led an engineering organization of over 1,000 people focused on transmission and distribution system planning, asset management, engineering, grid modernization, operations technology, control room support and vegetation management. He also previously worked with GE providing oversight to Grid Solutions in North America. Prior to that, Khan spent 24 years with ABB in a variety of roles, including Senior Vice President – Power Transformers, North America; President – Power Systems Division, Saudi Arabia; and Senior Vice President – Grid Systems, North America. ### Ray LaMura Ray is President of the VCTA – Broadband Association of Virginia, the state trade association representing Virginia’s broadband and cable industry. Ray’s principal responsibilities are representing Virginia’s broadband and cable industry before members of the Virginia General Assembly and the United States Congress. Ray is also a board member of the Virginia Telehealth Network. ### Maria Lehman Maria is GHD’s Infrastructure Market Leader for the United States, as well as a Principal and shareholder and serves on the company’s U.S. Board of Directors. She was the former COO and Acting Executive Director of the New York State Thruway Authority and Commissioner of Public Works for Erie County, NY, as well as many private sector roles. She has over 40 years of diverse, increasingly responsible, multi-disciplinary technical and leadership experience, both in the private and public sectors. She received her BS in Civil Engineering at the State University of New York at Buffalo, Magna Cum Laude, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in several states. Maria also has a certificate in Board Governance, from the Wharton School of Executive Management. Maria was the 2023 President of ASCE. She has been the Vice Chair of President Biden’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC) since 2022. Maria also serves at the Legislative Chair for ACEC–NY. Maria has won numerous awards including the ASCE President’s Medal, ASCE Lifetime Achievement Award for Service to the Profession in Region 1, National Edmund Friedman Young Engineer Award, State University of New York at Buffalo’s School of Engineering Alumna of the Year, New York Governor’s Award for Excellence in Business and the New York State Society of Professional Engineers Engineering Manager of the Year. In 2022, Maria was inducted into the National Academy of Construction. ### Otto Lynch Otto has over 36 years in electrical substation, transmission, and distribution line design and construction on projects around the world. He currently holds the position of Vice President and Head of Power Line Systems at Bentley Systems. Prior to the acquisition, he served as President and CEO of Power Line Systems. Otto is a registered Professional Engineer and an active member of many ASCE, IEEE, and ANSI technical committees related to the overhead power line industry. Otto was honored in 2012 by receiving ASCE’s Gene Wilhoite Innovations in Transmission Line Engineering Award and inducted as a Fellow in ASCE’s Structural Engineering Institute and a Fellow in ASCE. Otto was also the 2022 recipient of the ASCE Walter P. Moore, Jr. Award in recognition of his dedication to and technical expertise in the development of structural codes and standards. ### Nathan Macek Nathan has more than 20 years of experience applying innovative approaches to budgetary challenges faced by public agencies. He assists infrastructure owners in evaluating funding options and developing strategies to secure grants and other funding. He has developed financial models to evaluate funding, alternative project delivery and financing for rail, transit and highway projects in the U.S., Europe, Caribbean and Middle East. He has prepared financial plans for more than 10 major projects and was awarded federal grants totaling $12 billion. Nathan contributes to advancements in the industry as an author of multiple papers focused on transportation finance and policy topics. As infrastructure finance director, Nathan develops and coordinates HDR’s domestic and international strategies for funding and financing-related advisory services. Services include financial feasibility assessment, financial planning and cash flow analysis, funding analysis, funding and grant strategy development, long-range financial planning, New/Small Starts and Core Capacity planning, privatization studies, public-private partnership strategy development, real estate finance, pricing analysis, tolling finance and value capture analysis. ### Michael Miller Over the past 33 years, Michael has accumulated extensive experience in the design, fabrication and full-scale testing of latticed steel towers, tubular steel poles, telecommunication structures and substation structures. His previous positions included work in the U.S. Department of Energy-Bonneville Power Administration and subsequently with SAE Towers. Mr. Miller has been the design Engineer of Record for transmission line infrastructure projects across 25 U.S. states and 4 Canadian provinces. He has also provided expertise in the development of high voltage transmission line structures in Central America, South America and Southeast Asia. Michael is an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) participates in industry committees as well as the development of many of the industry Manuals of Practice and Standards. He has been appointed as the chairman of the new ASCE-SEI Structural Loading Standard Committee. He has developed patents and has published many industry technical papers. ### Traci Minamide Traci joins CDM Smith after serving the city of Los Angeles, California at LA Sanitation and Environment (LASAN) as Chief Operating Officer. In that role, she provided executive leadership over the operations and management of various LASAN programs including wastewater treatment, conveyance, water recycling, watershed protection and solid resources. Her broad portfolio of experience includes supporting the expansion of Los Angeles’s Recycled Water Program. Her contributions include the $4.5 billion Hyperion 2035, a plan that initiates the mayor’s goal to recycle 100% of the city’s wastewater by 2035 to create a local water supply. Traci has a bachelor’s in civil engineering from California State Polytechnic University–Pomona and a master’s in civil engineering from Loyola Marymount University. She is a former President of the California Association of Sanitation Agencies (CASA) and a former Chair in the CASA Legislative Committee. She served on the California Advisory Panel for Direct Potable Reuse (DPR), working with treatment agencies, water purveyors, NGOs and the public to advise the State Water Resources Control Board on advance treatment of wastewater for DPR. In addition, she is a Board Member of Clean Water So Cal, a member of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies and a member of the American Public Works Association. For all her accomplishments, she was recognized with the Asian American Architects and Engineers Leadership Award. ### Joe Oliver Joe leads the Infrastructure & Financial Advisory Offering within Deloitte Financial Advisory Services. His teams advise government agencies in developing and implementing solutions to improve global and U.S. infrastructure and energy security, resilience, reliability, and sustainability. Joe supports clients to achieve their goals and mission requirements through program management, project development, transaction support, access to financing, policy and strategy development, utility governance, financial modeling, and supply chain security. He provides technical expertise related to renewable energy technologies, extractives and critical minerals supply, power market design, power generation, transmission systems, gas sector development, and climate risk management. Joe previously served as Lead Business Partner for the U.S. Department of Energy and serves clients including the U.S. Departments of State and the Interior, the U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Agency for International Development. He has led projects across the U.S. and in 30+ countries throughout Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central Europe, and Latin America. During his 20+ year career, Joe has facilitated more than $10 billion in public and private financing to enable public infrastructure projects. ### Jon Phillips Jon joined GIIA as Director, Corporate Affairs in September 2016 with a brief to develop and implement its communications strategy and to extend its membership base. Between 2005-2016, he was Communications Director for the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority, a UK government agency established to run the £3 billion a year nuclear clean-up program. Prior to that, Jon spent 12 years at airport operator BAA Heathrow which included leading on communications for the £4.2 billion T5 project during its planning and construction phases. ### Kishia Powell Kishia is a dynamic force in the global water sector with 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors across the U.S. and London, England. She leads a team of 1,680 strong and manages the day-to-day operations of the largest water utility in Maryland – the 8th largest in the country – and ensures water and water resource recovery services are safely provided to 1.9 million customers throughout a 1,000-square-mile service area. Kishia serves on the board of the National Association of Clean Water Agencies, (formerly as President), representing over 400 clean water agencies across the country. Mayor Brandon Scott appointed her to serve on the Baltimore Water Governance Task Force. She also serves on the Morgan State University School of Engineering Executive Council and the Montgomery County Chamber Board and was appointed to serve on the GSA Green Building Advisory Council. In May 2023, the Maryland Society of Professional Engineers honored her with the Industry Icon Award. Before being selected to lead WSSC Water, Kishia served as DC Water’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President, where she championed several initiatives, including a focus on operationalizing equity and environmental justice. She provided oversight for DC Water’s 10-year $6.4 billion capital improvement program and led the implementation of workstreams under the utility’s strategic plan imperative for reliability. While at DC Water, Kishia had the honor of testifying before both houses of Congress in support of water sector funding and the Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act, known as the Bi-partisan Infrastructure Law with historic federal water funding levels. In September 2023, she was invited to return to the Senate Environment and Public Work Committee to provide testimony on the BIL implementation and progress. ### Anna Pridmore Anna and the Water Infrastructure Team are focused on developing solutions that make critical pipelines, water storage and treatment systems stronger and last longer. Anna has industry-leading civil infrastructure rehabilitation experience helping clients with options analysis, technical support, engineering, specifications and project oversight. She has provided technical assistance on hundreds of pipeline upgrade projects for nuclear, fossil, industrial and municipal clients worldwide. She specializes in asset management program support for nuclear power plants and municipal water/wastewater agencies, and leads a technical team that provides clients with the design, construction and maintenance for pipeline rehabilitation and new prestressed water storage and treatment structures. ### Barry Schoch Barry Schoch rejoined KCI in 2017 as senior vice president and discipline manager for construction management and transportation design in the northeast region of the U.S. In this role, he is responsible for leading the firm’s business development efforts and engineering operations for highway, bridge and traffic projects in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. He also served as the secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for four years. Barry earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Pennsylvania State University and is a registered professional engineer in multiple states. He is extremely active in numerous professional associations including the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Pennsylvania Highway Information Association, the American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania, the Design Professionals Coalition, and the American Society of Highway Engineers. His dedication to the industry and region has been formally recognized by multiple organizations. Accolades include the American Society of Highway Engineers Robert E. Pearson Person of the Year Award, Pennsylvania State Association Townships Supervisors’ Founders Award, Pennsylvania Highway Information Association Advocate of the Year Award, Greater Valley Forge Transportation Management Association Leadership Award, and Engineers Society of Western Pennsylvania William Metcalf Award. ### Paul Skoutelas Paul is president and chief executive officer of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). His entire career has been in public transportation, serving in both the public and private sectors. Paul is a champion for the power of public transportation to create personal and economic opportunities for all and to connect and build thriving communities. He testifies often before Congress and is a frequent speaker on public transportation issues as APTA leads the industry’s transformation in the new mobility era. Prior to joining APTA in 2018, he served as senior vice president for WSP USA, one of the world’s largest architectural and engineering firms and national director of WSP USA’s Transit & Rail Technical Excellence Center. He also was chief executive officer at the Port Authority of Allegheny County (PAT), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (LYNX), Orlando, Florida. ### Joseph Spadea Joseph serves as an Associate Vice President for the DC Transportation Region and Pennoni FX Studios Visualization Practice Lead. Joe is a Senior Bridge Engineer and Project Manager with over 20 years of transportation design and design visualization experience. He has participated in the design and finite element modeling and analysis of major river crossings. Joe works closely with our bridge design team and has assisted in pioneering the use of BIM for bridges including the first-ever application of BIM for Bridges for the District Department of Transportation. He is frequently involved in preparing context sensitive designs for high-profile bridge projects featured in industry news and trade media. As leader of Pennoni FX Studios, he is experienced with 3D data integration including Digital Twins and GIS, High-Definition Laser Scanning, Virtual Reality and 3D aerial photography and mapping. He has managed over 500 visualization projects to date. Mr. Spadea oversees the development of presentation materials, 3D renderings, animations, XR and gamification for projects, concepts, virtual public meeting spaces, visual impact assessments and public involvement efforts. Joe works with this team to deliver stunning, high quality 3D computer visualizations for our clients. Joe is a graduate of Villanova University (BS, Civil Engineering) and earned a master’s degree (MS, Engineering) from the University of Texas at Austin. Joe serves on the ACEC/MW Transportation Committee and is friends of TRB AJE40 Committee on Public Engagement and Communications as well as TRB AED80 Visualization in Transportation. ### Kristina Swallow Kristina is an Assistant City Manager for the City of Tucson, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing urban development and community services. With over three decades of experience in engineering and management, Kristina is committed to creating innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for residents. In her current position, Kristina oversees a range of departments, focusing on infrastructure, urban planning, and economic development. Her leadership has been instrumental in implementing programs that improve customer service, streamline city processes, and promote sustainable growth. Kristina holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from University of Arizona and a master’s degree in civil engineering from University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She is a member and served as the 2018 President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). ### Jason Terreri Jason is a seasoned industry veteran with more than 15 years of senior airport management experience. He previously served as the Senior Operations Project Director for Airports Worldwide, Inc., as well as leading Air Service Development in Sanford, Florida. Prior to his tenure with Airports Worldwide, Inc., Jason was the Assistant Director of Airports for the Horry County Department of Airports in South Carolina. Jason also spent nine years at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in various business development, properties, and operations roles. Jason is a licensed commercial pilot and former flight instructor. He graduated from the Florida Institute of Technology with a degree in Aviation Management, and received a Master’s degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Aviation Policy from the University of Nebraska. ## Thank you to our sponsors, who helped make the 2025 Solutions Summit a success [![NUCOR logo in green on a white background](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-report-card-sponsor-9-nucor.png "2025-report-card-sponsor-9-nucor")](https://nucor.com/) [![CDM Smith logo in blue text with a small green accent on the 'i'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-report-card-sponsor-3-cdm-smith.png "2025-report-card-sponsor-3-cdm-smith")](https://www.cdmsmith.com/) [![KCI logo with blue striped mountain motif above the letters K C I.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-kci-color.png "logo-kci-color")](https://www.kci.com/) [![Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation logo with a red circular seal on the left and the company name on the right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/2025-report-card-sponsor-6-great-lakes-dredge-dock.png "2025-report-card-sponsor-6-great-lakes-dredge-dock")](https://gldd.com/) [![Epic Games shield logo on white background](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-epic-games.png "logo-epic games")](https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US) [![Autodesk logo (black wordmark with a stylized icon) on white background](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-autodesk.png "logo-autodesk")](https://www.autodesk.com/industry/civil-engineering) [![Bentley logo with the slogan 'Advancing Infrastructure'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-bentley.png "logo-bentley")](https://www.bentley.com/) [![Deloitte logo: black wordmark with a green dot on white background, brand mark of the professional services firm.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-deloitte.png "logo-deloitte")](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/pages/public-sector/solutions/infrastructure-services.html) [![Struc'tur'al Technologies](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-report-card-sponsor-11-structural.png "2025-report-card-sponsor-11-structural")](https://www.structuraltechnologies.com/piperehab/) [![GIIA logo for Global Infrastructure Investor Association with the slogan 'Promoting Private Investment in Infrastructure'](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-giia.png "logo-giia")](https://giia.net/) [![Esri logo with a globe icon and the tagline 'The Science of Where'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/logo-esri.png "logo-esri")](https://www.esri.com/en-us/home) --- ### [Story Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/story-map/) **Published:** April 1, 2025 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** --- ### [Report Card History](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** As the nation’s oldest engineering society, representing more than 160,000 civil engineers who serve as stewards of infrastructure here in the U.S. and around the globe, ASCE is a leading advocate for infrastructure improvements. As part of this advocacy, every four years since 1998, ASCE has prepared a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s major infrastructure systems in its *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. The Report Card assigns easily understandable letter grades for each category and uses a concise but replicable methodology to analyze all aspects of system performance. The number of Report Card categories has grown from ten in 1998 to 18 in 2025, offering a more comprehensive and robust appraisal of American infrastructure. Report Card editions have headed new research making it clear that infrastructure is a network of interdependent systems with broad scope. Infrastructure serves people and the Report Card grew based on usage trends: adding Ports as e-commerce boomed, adding Stormwater as development patterns and extreme weather threatened, and including Broadband with 2025 as reliable internet connectivity became essential to American homes and businesses. Simultaneously, ASCE’s state Report Card program has grown since 1998, with over 40 state report cards providing an assessment of local infrastructure conditions and trends. Decision-makers have also adopted many of the policy recommendations in the early editions, making the Report Card a key resource for federal, state, and local policymakers working to improve our vital infrastructure networks. However, some of the first recommendations from the Report Card remain as relevant in 2025 as in 1998, but positive momentum is clear. ![ASCE 2025 Report Card for America's Infrastructure logo with a blue tag and colorful stripes (checkmark on a turquoise square).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-IRC-Logo-w-ASCE-Landscape-Blue-on-TRANSPARENT.png) Explore Our History - 2025 Report Card - 2024 - 2022 - 2021 - 2021 Report Card - 2020 - 2017 Report Card - 2013 Report Card - 2013 - 2009 - 2009 Report Card - 2006 State Report Card - 2005 Report Card - 2003 - 2001 Report Card - 1998 Report Card - 1988 2025 Report Card [ Explore 2025 Report Card ](#) ## 2025 Report Card ## Report Card up to C Overall on Federal Investment Momentum March 2025 ASCE releases the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The overall grade climbs to C, and Broadband becomes the 18th graded category – starting at C+ and benefiting from greater public data. The Hazardous Waste mark climbed two steps to C, highlighting the benefits of increased federal investments in programs for sites within the Superfund and brownfield programs, plus more significant funding to address legacy pollution sites of the Energy and Defense departments. 2025 Report Card recommendations include Sustaining Investment, Prioritizing Resilience, and Advancing Policy and Innovation. Those set of recommendations largely align with previous proposals in 2021, 2017, and 2013 Report Card editions, with momentum on some of the component action items. [ View the Report ](/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf) [ ![Cover image for ASCE's 2025 Report Card on America's Infrastructure, featuring a highway overpass and city skyline](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-report-cover-timeline.jpg) ](/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Full-Report-2025-Natl-IRC-WEB.pdf) 2024 [ Explore 2024 ](#) ## 2024 ## Households Save $700 Annually with Continued Federal Investments May 2024 ASCE releases “Bridging the Gap,” an economic analysis for 11 of the 18 Report Card categories built on the prior “Failure to Act” report series. Bridging the Gap assessed the economic benefits of increased federal infrastructure investments from several recent federal laws, state and local actions, and private investments. The findings identified a $700 annual savings to American households if Congress continued investing at those levels beyond their expiration in 2026. [ View the Report ](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Page-2024-BTG-Economic-Study.png) ](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) 2022 [ Explore 2022 ](#) ## 2022 ## Research, Infrastructure Innovation Planned by CHIPS Act August 2022 The CHIPS and Science Act (CHIPS) becomes law. While most of CHIPS funding in appropriations goes to domestic manufacturing of microchips, the legislation advances several research efforts that ASCE supports. CHIPS significantly increased the authorized funding levels for research within the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Investments at that level and improved interagency partnerships help translate federally funded research to commercial applications, where engineers deploy innovative approaches. ![Cover page of Public Law 117-167 (Aug 9, 2022): An Act making appropriations for the fiscal year ending Sept 30, 2022.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image-Page-1-CHIPS-Science-2022.jpg) ## Energy and Resilience Updates Focus of 2022 Act August 2022 The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) becomes law, directing additional investments and setting policy changes affecting energy and resilience projects within several other Report Card categories. ASCE’s 2024 Bridging the Gap economic study estimates that the IRA and 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will drive over $580 billion in additional public investments compared to prior funding levels – and only counting 11 of the 18 Report Card categories in that study. ![Title page of a 2022 U.S. law: Public Law 117-169, 117th Congress, An Act caption and initial text about reconciliation under Section 10001.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image-Page-1-IRA-2022.jpg) 2021 [ Explore 2021 ](#) ## 2021 ## IIJA Implementation: 2021 ASCE releases IIJA Implementation Resources to identify and track funding opportunities available from the landmark federal legislation. ![Evening view of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., with the lit dome and a colorful pink‑blue sunset sky above, traffic lights in the foreground.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/capital.jpg) ## Infrastructure Law Delivers $595 Billion in Three Years November 2021 The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) becomes law, including 43 recommendations from the 2021 Report Card. The measure will invest $1.2 trillion over five years, 2022-2026, and create or enhance programs covering all 17 Report Card categories as well as broadband. The IIJA was the culmination of decades of advocacy by ASCE members who worked tirelessly to educate federal decision-makers about infrastructure’s role in supporting the economy and our quality of life. Compared to prior investment levels authorized by Congress, IIJA support for roads and bridges grew 34%, aviation support grew 67%, and investments in other categories grew many times over. Large-scale investments are directed to neglected categories, like transit, hazardous waste, water, and broadband. As of January 2025, IIJA had invested $595 billion into 52,610 projects, which the private sector had leveraged to invest another $359 billion into physical infrastructure projects. ![Title page of Public Law 117-58 (Nov. 15, 2021), 117th Congress, An Act authorizing funds for Federal-aid highways and related programs.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image-Page-1-IIJA-2021.jpg) ## Rescue Plan Act Supports Water Systems and Broadband March 2021 The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 is signed into law. The legislation invests federal money to address the COVID-19 pandemic and provides flexibility to state and local authorities. Those decision-makers direct much of that investment toward infrastructure projects. 12.9% of the total bill funds go to water systems in 41 states, and 5.8% of the total is directed by 32 states toward broadband projects. ![Title page of Public Law 117-2 (117th Congress), dated Mar. 11, 2021, with section headings and introductory text.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image-Page-1-ARPA-2021.jpg) 2021 Report Card [ Explore 2021 Report Card ](#) ## 2021 Report Card ## Report Card adds Stormwater, Grade Climbs to C- March 2021 ASCE releases the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The overall grade climbs to C-, the first overall Report Card grade out of the D range. Stormwater becomes the 17th category, entering the grade chart as a D. While the COVID-19 Pandemic raised awareness of and urgency for high-speed internet services, the 2021 Report Card noted a lack of public data in its un-graded spotlight for Broadband. The lack of public data has been a recurring theme in many Report Card categories since the 1998 edition. The 2021 document also noted the persistent issues of growing maintenance backlogs and the benefit of increased investment from all levels of government, though trailing the needs. [ 2021 Report Card ](https://2021.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [ ![ASCE logo with the headline 'A Comprehensive Assessment of America's Infrastructure' and '2021 Report Card for America's Infrastructure' on a blue panel with a diagonal color band.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2021-Natl-IRC.jpg) ](https://2021.infrastructurereportcard.org/) 2020 [ Explore 2020 ](#) ## 2020 ## Infrastructure Defects Cost Households $3,300 Annually 2020-21 ASCE releases several reports updating the economic analysis from the prior “Failure to Act” economic study series. The report analyses 11 of the 17 graded categories from the 2021 Report Card and, due to lack of investments in infrastructure, identifies a cost of $3,300 annually to American households over 20 years. The study also put an exponential cost on delayed action; of the total economic impacts projected from the 2020-2040 window, more than three-quarters occurred in the second decade. [ View the Report ](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/infrastructure/failure-to-act-reports) [ ![Blue-tinted collage of road signs and urban scenes with the title 'Failure to Act' and sponsor logos (EBP, ASCE).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-2021-Roll-Up-FTA-Economic-Report-scaled.jpg) ](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/infrastructure/failure-to-act-reports) 2017 Report Card [ Explore 2017 Report Card ](#) ## 2017 Report Card ## Rail Rises Four Grade Steps in Eight Years March 2017 As with the 2013 Report Card, the 2017 edition also assessed 16 categories, and the overall grade remained at D+. Rail continued its upward momentum, rising two steps to B in 2017 – a sharp climb from 2009’s debut rail grade of C-. The chapter noted that private rail companies continued strong investment in tracks serving both freight and passenger rail services. [ 2017 Report Card ](https://2017.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [ ![ASCE 2017 Infrastructure Report Card cover with colorful icons forming a circle on a blue background near the bottom and ASCE logo top-right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2017-Natl-IRC.jpg) ](https://2017.infrastructurereportcard.org/) 2013 Report Card [ Explore 2013 Report Card ](#) ## 2013 Report Card ## Report Card up to D+ Overall, Ports joins at C March 2013 In the fifth edition of ASCE’s Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, the overall grade jumped one step to D+, and Ports was added as the 16th category, debuting with a C grade. Along with Inland Waterways, the Report Card now covered the waterborne commerce that powers America’s supply chain at home and across the globe. The Rail grade rose two steps to C+, citing increased investment from the private sector. The document recommended “increased leadership in infrastructure renewal,” the development and funding of “plans to maintain and enhance America’s infrastructure,” and a third resilience recommendation reiterating 2009’s discussion of the subject. [ 2013 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2013-report-card/) [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2013-Natl-IRC.png) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2013-report-card/) 2013 [ Explore 2013 ](#) ## 2013 ## A $1.1 Trillion Infrastructure Investment Gap Jan 2013 ASCE releases a new report called “Failure to Act,” analyzing ten of the 16 Report Card categories for 2013. Failure to Act “answers the key question of how the conditions of the United States’ infrastructure systems affect the nation’s economic performance.” The report analyzed actual investment levels compared to a “B-level” infrastructure system through two approaches: 1) the need to build new infrastructure to service increasing populations and expanding economic activity; and 2) the cost to maintain or rebuild existing infrastructure. Failure to Act found a gap of $1.1 trillion over 8 years in 2010 dollars. [ View the Report ](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/infrastructure/failure-to-act-reports) [ ![Cover of an ASCE report: 'Failure to Act: The Impact of Current Infrastructure Investment on America’s Economic Future' with a blue overlay and ASCE logo](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Page-2011-13-Economic-Study-Roll-Up.jpg) ](https://www.asce.org/advocacy/infrastructure/failure-to-act-reports) 2009 [ Explore 2009 ](#) ## 2009 ## Federal Stimulus Boosts Infrastructure February 2009 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) becomes law. To save and create jobs during the worst recession since the Great Depression, robust infrastructure investments are directed to transportation and other Report Card categories. ARRA invested almost $50 billion in roads, bridges, rail, and transit; almost $5 billion supported navigable waterways, and several billion additional dollars went to the State Revolving Funds for Drinking Water and Clean Water. The legislation provided $7.2 billion for broadband deployment. In a 2017 report, the U.S. Department of Transportation noted that ARRA doubled the prior pace whereby projects rehabilitated bridges out of structural deficiency. ![Cover page of Public Law 111-5 (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009), showing date and section titles with government seal in the corner](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Image-Page-1-ARRA-2009.jpg) 2009 Report Card [ Explore 2009 Report Card ](#) ## 2009 Report Card ## Report Card Recommends Resilience March 2009 ASCE continued to update the Report Card for America’s Infrastructure in the spring of 2009, adding Levees as a standalone category with a debut grade of D- and significant identified needs. The Security category from 2005 did not return. The overall GPA from the 15 categories stabilized at D. Key recommendations from the 2009 Report Card speak to findings that remain true through the 2025 edition: “promote resilience in infrastructure” and “address life-cycle costs and ongoing maintenance.” [ 2009 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2009-report-card/) [ ![Cover for the 2009 Report Card for America's Infrastructure by ASCE, blue poster with bold white typography](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2009-Natl-IRC.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2009-report-card/) 2006 State Report Card [ Explore 2006 State Report Card ](#) ## 2006 State Report Card ## State Report Cards Debut in CA & PA 2006 ASCE members in California and Pennsylvania become the first to release Report Cards for State Infrastructure. Both states have released regular updates since, with California set for a new edition in 2025 and Pennsylvania in 2026. As of March 2025, ASCE has supported the release of state report cards in 43 states, plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Covers-2026-PA-and-CA-IRCs.png) 2005 Report Card [ Explore 2005 Report Card ](#) ## 2005 Report Card ## Report Card adds 3 Categories, Still a D Overall March 2005 In the third Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, ASCE added chapters for Public Parks, Rail, and Security. Parks debuted with a C- and Rail started at C- and included both freight and passenger services. Security received an I for incomplete, and that chapter’s summary noted that public information was not available to assess the security of our nation’s critical infrastructure since the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. The Report Card now had 15 categories, and the overall grade decreased one step to D, from D+ in 2001. [ 2005 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2005-report-card/) [ ![Cover of the 2005 ASCE Report Card for America's Infrastructure on a blue panel with a green background and a vertical row of small icons along the right edge, plus the ASCE logo at bottom left.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2005-Natl-IRC-scaled.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2005-report-card/) 2003 [ Explore 2003 ](#) ## 2003 ## "No Progress" says Progress Report September 2003 ASCE releases a progress report highlighting trends in each of the 12 Report Card categories from the 2001 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. Seven of the categories had negative trends, and five showed no progress. None of the categories showed improvements, and the report’s conclusion says that critical funding sources are threatened by delayed congressional action on reauthorization bills. [ 2003 Progress Report ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2003-progress-report/) [ ![Cover of the 2003 Progress Report on America's Infrastructure, an update to the 2001 Report Card, with colorful infrastructure icons.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Lead-Slide-2023-Natl-Progress-Report.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2003-progress-report/) 2001 Report Card [ Explore 2001 Report Card ](#) ## 2001 Report Card ## Report Card adds Energy, Inland Waterways March 2001 ASCE releases the second Report Card for America’s Infrastructure and begins a practice of updates with new grades every four years that carries through the present day. The 2001 edition adds two categories: “Navigable Waterways,” covering what is now the Inland Waterways chapter, and “Energy,” covering the transmission and distribution systems of electricity. The overall grade climbs to D+. [ 2001 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2001-report-card/) [ ![2001 ASCE Report Card cover page with a table of infrastructure categories and letter grades (e.g., Roads D+, Bridges C, Transit C-).](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-2001-Natl-IRC-WEB.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2001-report-card/) 1998 Report Card [ Explore 1998 Report Card ](#) ## 1998 Report Card ## America's Infrastructure Gets D Grade March 1998 ASCE releases the first Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, providing a 10-year update to 1988’s “Fragile Foundations.” The new report separated the “Highways” category into dedicated Bridges and Roads sections and refreshed the “Water Supply” section with the more accessible label of Drinking Water. “Water Resources” was focused into a dedicated Dams chapter. The 1998 Report Card added school facilities and gave that system an F, saying that “nearly 60% of schools have at least one major building problem.” The overall grade with 10 categories was D. [ 1998 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1998-report-card/) [ ![ASCE 1998 Report Card for America's Infrastructure table listing grades and notes for Roads, Bridges, Mass Transit, Aviation, Schools, Drinking Water, Wastewater, Dams, and Solid Waste.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-1998-Natl-IRC.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1998-report-card/) 1988 [ Explore 1988 ](#) ## 1988 ## Experts: America's Infrastructure "Insufficient" February 1988 A Congressionally-chartered council releases the report – “Fragile Foundations” – assigning letter grades to national infrastructure across eight categories covering transportation, water, and waste management. After two years of study, the National Council on Public Works Improvement found “convincing evidence that the quality of America’s infrastructure is barely adequate to fulfill current requirements and insufficient to meet the demands of future economic growth and development.” The document issued numerous recommendations, including a commitment to increased capital spending “shared by all levels of government and the private sector.” [ 1988 Report Card ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1988-report-card/) [ ![Cover image of a report titled ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Cover-Image-1988-Natl-IRC.jpg) ](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1988-report-card/) --- ### [ASCE Committee on America's Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/advisory-council/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure, made up of 52 civil engineers and infrastructure professionals from across the country with decades of expertise in all categories, volunteers their time to work with ASCE Infrastructure Initiatives staff to prepare the *Report Card.* The Committee assesses all relevant data and reports, consults with technical and industry experts, and assigns grades. **Adam Matteo, P.E.** As Assistant State Structure and Bridge Engineer for Bridge Maintenance Adam is responsible for establishing policy for the maintenance of over 19,000 of Virginia’s highway bridges and large culverts. He has 40 years of engineering experience in structural design, bridge maintenance and construction management. Before joining VDOT he worked as an engineering consultant, where he was responsible for the management of an office that performed bridge design, bridge inspection and bridge maintenance services in the mid-Atlantic region. **Ana Tijerina Esquino, EIT, A.M.ASCE** Ana works at Mott MacDonald, has a combined 10 years of experience in project financing and engineering, working on multi-million-dollar ports and transit projects in the PNW. She is also the Early Career Professional lead for Social Outcomes for the North and South America region. Ana holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Portland State University and is pursuing a master’s degree focused on engineering and preservation of existing infrastructure. An ASCE member since 2017, Ana is active in the Committee for Younger Members and the Committee for America’s Infrastructure, and served as President of the Portland Younger Member Forum from 2021 to 2022. As Chair of the 2024 Oregon Infrastructure Report Card, she led a 30-person statewide effort to assess infrastructure. Ana was named the 2024 Outstanding Civil Engineer Advocate of the Year by ASCE for her advocacy at local, regional, and national levels. **Andrew Herrmann, P.E., F.SEI, Pres.12 ASCE** Andrew is a Partner Emeritus, Hadesty & Hanover, with a 40 plus year career. Andrew has worked on bridge studies, major bridge rehabilitations, emergency services, biennial, and in-depth bridge inspections, preliminary to final design on new fixed and movable bridges, construction inspection, and now Consulting Services. **Bill Hanson, BC.NE(Dist.), A.M.ASCE** Bill is the Senior Vice President – Market Development for Great Lakes Dredge and Dock. He is a 44 year veteran of the dredging and maritime construction industry, Bill has been with GLDD for 34 years and a Vice President since 2004. In 2013, he opened GLDD’s first office in Washington DC. Bill began his career with the US Army Corps of Engineers in Galveston and Los Angeles, and then worked for Connolly Pacific of Long Beach, California before joining GLDD in 1988. At GLDD, he served in management roles in the North Atlantic and Southern Divisions as well as managing Latin America for 12 years. Bill serves on several Federal Advisory committees as well as on boards of groups with national and regional interest to GLDD, and several academic advisory boards related to ocean and coastal engineering. He is a 1979 Ocean Engineering graduate of Texas A&M, where he was named a distinguished alumni in 2013. **Carol Ellinger Haddock, P.E., F.ASCE** Carol recently retired as the Director of Houston Public Works, the first woman to oversee the largest American Public Works Association accredited agency in the United States. During her 19-year tenure, she held various roles culminating with seven years leading a team of over 4,000 employees responsible for vital services such as water, wastewater, streets, stormwater and permitting in Houston. Carol also played a key role in long-term planning and managing capital projects during her time serving Houstonians. A staunch advocate of employee and infrastructure development, Carol has been a champion for employee equity and infrastructure enhancements at the local, state and national levels. She holds a Civil Engineering Bachelor’s degree from Rice University and has a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Houston. **Celine Hyer, P.E., M.ASCE** Celine is currently the US water conveyance planning practice leader for Arcadis. She has over 35 years of experience in water and wastewater engineering as both a municipal utility manager and a consultant. She specializes in applying asset management principles to determine the optimal capital and operations and maintenance programs necessary to meet acceptable service levels and has evaluated over 1.5 million pipeline and facility assets and has supported approval for over $7 billion dollars of capital projects for large utilities across the US. Celine serves as the Chair for the ASCE UESI Asset Management Division as well as supporting other leading technical committees where she serves as the Chair for the American Water Works Association Asset Management Committee and as the Industry Advisory Chairwoman for the Virginia Tech Sustainable Infrastructure Management Center. She is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Florida. **Christy VanBuskirk, P.E., M.ASCE** Christy has worked with Iowa DOT since 2011 and currently is responsible for overseeing contract and construction administration for primary road construction in the eastern half of District 5 (9 counties). She is responsible for the supervision of 15 full-time and 5 part-time employees. Christy works with internal and external stakeholders in project development, construction activities and citizen requests. Before joining Iowa DOT, Christy worked as a county engineer. She oversaw and managed all aspects of construction and maintenance of the Keokuk County secondary road system. Responsible for the administration of a $3.7 million operational budget and supervision of 24 full-time and 3 part-time employees. Christy received a B.S in civil engineering from Purdue University. She has been heavily involved with the Iowa chapter of ASCE and has chaired the 2019 and 2023 Iowa State Report Card Committees. She also currently serves as the chair of ASCE’s Public Policy and Practice Committee. **Chuck Hookham, P.E.** Chuck has over 43 years of electric power, industrial/energy, and commercial building experience, involved with development, regulatory issues, strategic planning, engineering, codes, and EPC delivery of domestic and international projects for utilities, public power agencies, independent power producers, and developers. His recent focus has been on energy storage, integrated resource plans, risk analysis, siting studies, grid analysis, electric vehicle and distributed energy systems, and renewables project management. Prior to leaving CMS Energy in mid-2024, he led development and construction of large single axis-tracked and fixed tilt solar PV and wind generation projects in Michigan, Ohio and Texas, multiple battery storage, microgrid, and hybrid smart city installations, and recently directed the battery/solar hybrid expansion of an existing wind farm in PJM territory. His current focus is enabling renewable energy/decarbonization projects in the midwest. He is an engineering graduate of the University of Illinois – Urbana/Champaign, received an MBA in international finance from Eastern Michigan University, is a registered professional engineer in multiple states and countries, and formerly served Black & Veatch, HDR, and CMS Energy in leadership (vice president and director) roles. **Daniel Cronquist, P.E., P.L.S., F.ASCE** Daniel is the Central California Department Manager for AECOM’s Water Business Line. He and his team provide engineering design and construction administration for water and wastewater infrastructure. He has 20 years of professional experience and is a self-professed generalist with expertise in a wide range of projects including schools, parks, roads, water, wastewater, and stormwater. Daniel has been active in ASCE since college and has served in multiple areas of leadership, including as President of the Los Angeles Section, Present of the Southern San Joaquin Branch, and as a member of several state and local report card committees. He is a graduate of the California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, a licensed civil engineer in several states and territories, and a Professional Land Surveyor licensed in California. He also serves as an adjunct faculty at Bakersfield College, a community college, teaching engineering courses. **Darren Olson, P.E., BC.WRE, M.ASCE** Darren has over 25 years of experience in water resources engineering that started with the U.S. Geological Survey in Urbana, IL. He is currently Vice President and Water Resources Department Head at Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (CBBEL) in Rosemont, IL. In this role he oversees hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, design, funding and permitting of complex water resources projects to solve urban flooding problems throughout the Chicagoland area. He was the recipient of the 2005 Young Civil Engineer of the Year from the ASCE Illinois Section, 2014 Stormwater Management Award from the Illinois Association of State and Floodplain Managers (IAFSM) and 2024 Civil Engineer of the Year from the ASCE Illinois Section. He was president of the Illinois Section of ASCE in 2010 and was Chair of the Illinois Infrastructure Report Card in 2014 and 2018. He also served on the Illinois Lieutenant Governor’s Science Advisory Committee from 2011-2015. He has Bachelor’s of Science and Master’s of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Illinois and a Master’s in Business Administration from Northwestern University. **David Perrings, P.E., MASCE** David is a civil engineer with 40 years of experience. He is a graduate of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a Licensed Civil Engineer in the State of California. He has been involved in the preparation of the 2017, 2021 and the current National Infrastructure Report Card effort. He has also been involved with the preparation of the 2019 and current California Infrastructure Report Card. His area of expertise is Stormwater. David lives in the San Francisco Bay Area and is a Senior Civil Engineer with JMA Civil, Oakland California. He is currently involved with the drainage and quality control aspects of Rail Projects in California. **David Sonne, P.E.** Dave is a Senior Project Manager at Tetra Tech in Madison, WI with 20 plus years of experience in both civil and environmental engineering consulting. He is responsible for technical direction and management of solid waste facility design, compliance, permitting, and stormwater management projects. He is a registered Professional Engineer in several Midwest states. **David Sklar, Aff.M.ASCE** David is a Senior Vice President with WSP and serves as the national asset management strategy, planning, and transformation leader responsible for directing cross-sector projects across the U.S. He is a recognized industry leader with over 25 years of diverse experience across aviation, transportation, ports, energy, water, and public works infrastructure sectors. David’s key areas of expertise include asset management, environmental sustainability, infrastructure resiliency, capital planning, operations and maintenance strategy, and performance management. David has worked with some of the largest infrastructure organizations in the U.S. to develop and implement comprehensive and impactful asset management programs and plans. He holds a BA in Economics from Boston University and an MBA in Sustainability from the University of Colorado at Denver. **David Swallow, P.E., F.ASCE** David serves as Deputy Chief Executive Officer for the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada. In his role, he oversees the agency’s transportation planning, engineering, and roadway funding programs, design and construction of public transit systems and facilities, operation of the public bike share system, and traffic management for the region’s arterial and freeway systems. David has been a long-standing member and Fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers, serving on the Committee for America’s Infrastructure and Nevada Infrastructure Report Card. He is a licensed professional engineer in the state of Nevada and earned both Bachelors and Masters of Science degrees in Civil Engineering from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. **Del Shannon, P.E., M.ASCE** Del has more than 30 years of experience and holds degrees in both Journalism and Civil Engineering. He is the Chief Dam Engineer for Kiewit Infrastructure Engineers, a Past President of the US Society on Dams, chair of the USSD Committee on Concrete Dams, President of Hydropower Foundation, and serves in leadership roles for several professional organization. He is a geotechnical engineer by background and specializes in the design and construction of both earthen and concrete dams and similar hydraulic structures. Throughout his career he has worked on over 100 dam projects throughout the world, and three of his projects have received national awards from the US Society on Dams and Association of State Dam Safety Officials. **Dennis Randolph, P.E., M.ASCE** Dennis, a Life Member of ASCE, is currently celebrating his 50th year as a Registered Professional Engineer in the State of Michigan, working full-time as the Public Works Manager for the City of Kalamazoo Michigan. Over the past half-century Dennis has worked primarily for city and county governments, focusing on traffic and transportation engineering, but building all kinds of public infrastructure. A writer and educator, he has over 110 publications and has over 25-years’ experience as an adjunct engineering instructor at several universities, and is currently with the University of Missouri – Kansas City. **Edward “Ed” Barrett, Aff.M. ASCE** Ed has more than 15 years of telecommunications experience working with carriers and local communities nationwide. He currently serves as the President of HR Green’s Broadband Business Unit. In this role, Ed has worked with clients across the U.S., ranging from the smallest of small towns to million-plus urban regions who are studying and implementing broadband solutions as a way to enhance the lives of their constituents and grow into the Gigabit Economy. This includes engaging with clients throughout the entire project lifecycle from planning and visioning to design, construction, and deployment. Ed is a sought-after subject matter presenter on broadband and fiber topics at national and regional conferences. **Eric Czerniejewski, P.E., ENV SP, F.ASCE** Eric has 28 years of industry experience in civil, traffic, and transportation engineering, working on the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects for public and private clients. Eric is the Director of Traffic and Transportation Engineering and a Principal for The Corradino Group, Inc., with headquarters in Miami, Florida. Eric has recently worked on several key transportation infrastructure projects. Eric’s leadership roles include serving as President of the Broward Branch, Vice President of the Florida Section, and serving as ASCE Region 5 Governor (Florida). Eric has been involved with ASCE Government Relations for the past 20-plus years, including serving on many Society Committees. His volunteer service included being a member of the ASCE State Government Relations Committee, chair of the Transportation Policy Committee, member of the ASCE Public Policy and Practice Committee and currently serving as a member of the Committee on Americas Infrastructure where he is contributing to the Rail and Transit Categories for the 2025 Infrastructure Report Card Update. Eric was the committee chair for the 2012 ASCE Florida Section Infrastructure Report Card. **Farshid Vahedifard, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE** Farshid is a Professor and Berger Chair in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Tufts University. Further, he serves as the Resilient and Equitable Infrastructure Lead at the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH). With over 15 years of academic and industry experience, his work primarily encompasses the areas of civil and geotechnical engineering interfacing with grand challenges of Climate Change, Resilient Infrastructure, and Environmental Justice. He has been studying the resilience and adaptation of critical infrastructure (e.g., levees, dams) to extreme events (e.g., drought, flooding, wildfires, compound, and cascading hazards) in a changing climate, with a particular emphasis directed toward disadvantaged communities. He has led several transdisciplinary research initiatives focused on emerging issues that relate to climate-resilient communities and infrastructure systems, aging infrastructure, extreme events, cascading hazards, inclusive adaptation, and environmental justice and equity. **Gina Beim, P.E., M.ASCE** Gina, a registered Professional Engineer in the State of Ohio, is the founder and president of MCDA Consulting and an adjunct faculty at Case Western Reserve University. She recently retired as a Deputy Director from the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency. Gina is a past president of the Cleveland Section of ASCE, past chair of the Committee on Leadership and Management of ASCE, past chair of the ASCE Northeast Ohio Infrastructure Report Card, lead of the Parks chapter of the ASCE State of Ohio Infrastructure Report Card, and a member of ASCE’s Committee for America’s Infrastructure. **Greg DiLoreto, P.E., P.LS (ret.)., D. WRE (ret.), Pres. 13 ASCE** Greg is the past Chair of the ASCE’s Committee on America’s Infrastructure responsible for ASCE’s Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, a leading indicator of the health of America’s infrastructure. A past president of ASCE and the former CEO of the Tualatin Valley Water District in metropolitan Portland, Oregon, Greg is frequently called on by the national media, Congress, and international organizations to provide insight into the pressing infrastructure issues facing the country. An industry veteran and engineering professional for nearly 50 years, Greg holds a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering from Oregon State University, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Portland State University. Greg also serves on the boards of several infrastructure advisory committees in the Portland area. **Greg Scott, P.E., F.ASCE** Over the past 31 years, Greg has managed the design and construction of civil municipal, water and wastewater projects for communities throughout western Pennsylvania. Employed by CDM Smith, he participates in comprehensive facilities planning; coordinates design of collection, transmission, storage, distribution and treatment systems; implements combined sewer overflow programs including green stormwater infrastructure; and manages all phases of civil municipal, water and wastewater construction for municipal and Federal clients. A former Chair of the ASCE Pittsburgh Chapter of the Environmental and Water Resources Institute, President of the Pittsburgh Section, Region 2 Governor and Chair of the ASCE Convention Technical Program Subcommittee, Greg is currently serving as Vice Chair of the State Government Relations and Grassroots Committee. A registered Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania, he earned his Bachelors in Environmental Engineering Technology from Penn State University and his Masters in Civil Environmental Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh. **Jake Brunoehler, P.E., M.ASCE** Jake is the Area Manager for Hobas Pipe USA, overseeing projects across the Upper Midwest Region. With over a decade of hands-on experience in water infrastructure, Jake is committed to advancing safe, resilient, and sustainable systems that enhance community quality of life across the United States. A former branch president and advocacy captain for the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in Wisconsin, Jake has a proven track record in bridging the communication gap between technical experts, elected officials, and the public to promote meaningful investment in critical infrastructure. He holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Valparaiso University and actively serves in leadership roles within ASCE and other professional organizations. **Janey Camp, Ph.D, P.E., GISP, CFM, F. ASCE** Janey is a Research Professor in the Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis. her research utilizes tools and models to address today’s challenging issues related to infrastructure management and community resilience. Janey is a licensed civil engineer, a certified GIS Professional, and certified floodplain manager in the state of Tennessee. In addition to research and service to ASCE committees, Janey also serves on the Transportation Research Board’s Inland Waterways Transportation Committee, the PIANC US Section Board of Commissioners, and the National Institute for Building Science (NIBS) Lifelines Advisory Panel. She also served as a co-author for the Southeast Chapter of the Fifth National Climate Assessment. Janey also has a passion for education outreach and stakeholder engagement to increase understanding of key issues and improve risk understanding. **Jennifer Gora, P.E., F. ASCE, ENV SP** Jennifer has over 30 years of experience in the transportation industry where she has focused on aviation design and construction for over 26 years. She joined RS&H in 2023 and is currently a Senior Project Manager, Aviation, located in Minneapolis, MN. She has been involved in various aviation programs from general aviation to large commercial airports within the United States in various roles related to technical design, capital improvement plan development, and team collaboration. She is a graduate of North Dakota State University (NDSU) with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering and a Master of Science in environmental engineering. She is a registered Professional Engineer in the states of Minnesota, Indiana and Kentucky. **Jessica Raphael Ross, P.E., M.ASCE** Jess is the Remediation Practice Leader for Jacobs. She is a Senior Technical Consultant with over 27 years of experience focused on remediation projects that include investigation, remedial planning, technology evaluation, remedial design, remedy implementation and site closure. She earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of California at Irvine, and a M.S. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from the University of Michigan. She oversees a team of environmental remediation technology experts and innovators providing a wide range of liability and risk management services to evaluate, design, construct, operate, optimize and monitor remedies to achieve final site closures in a sustainable manner, including returning distressed properties to beneficial re-use. **John Moyle, P.E., M.ASCE** John is currently a Project Manager with GEI Consultants. John is a licensed professional engineer with a BSCE from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Prior to joining GEI, he was with the NJDEP for 40+ years, holding technical and leadership positions. As the Director of the Division of Dam Safety and Flood Engineering, he led New Jerseys dam safety program with the evaluation of the hydrologic and hydraulic, structural, geotechnical investigations for the rehabilitation and construction of dams. He also helped municipalities with their participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as the NFIP coordinator for NJ. He also led NJ’s role as the non-federal sponsor for USACE flood risk reduction projects which included the evaluation of channel modifications, dam modifications and flood proofing. John has served on various national boards and committees including the Board of Directors for the Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO), President of ASDSO, Chair of the Legislative Committee of ASDSO, the National Dam Safety Review Board, the Department of Homeland Security Government Coordinating Council. **Katherine Kortum, Ph.D, P.E., M.ASCE** Katherine is a Senior Program Officer at the Transportation Research Board where she leads committees developing research needs and organizing events on data and data science issues in transportation. She also provides recommendations to Congress, the USDOT, and the European Union on transportation policy across a variety of modes. She is on the editorial board of TR News magazine and led a Forum on sustainable mobility and automated vehicles, a self-supporting initiative to provide the research questions needed for better public policy. Katherine has chaired citizens’ advisory groups for both the Washington DC MPO and for the WMATA transit system, along with committees for ASCE, ITE, and WTS. She was a Robert Bosch fellow in Berlin, Germany, studying shared and integrated mobility research projects, and during the pandemic, she worked with the DC Department of Health overseeing logistics and processing for the District’s COVID-19 testing and vaccination response. She holds an MS and PhD in Transportation Engineering from The University of Texas at Austin, a BS in Civil Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh, and an MBA from the University of Illinois. She is a Professional Engineer in the District of Columbia. **Keith Pugh, P.E., PWLF, M.ASCE** Keith was President of the American Public Works Association (APWA) for 2022-2023. Keith is the Director of Government Affairs for Withers Ravenel, a full-service engineering, land development, funding and asset management firm based in Cary, NC. Prior to joining Withers Ravenel, Keith served as Engineering Services Director for the City of High Point, NC, a position he held for more than 15 years. Keith retired from the City of High Point and the public sector in July of 2019. Keith also served the City of Greensboro, NC for 16 years in various capacities with Transportation, Engineering, and Facilities. Keith has spent his entire career living out his father’s ideal of “Leaving Things Better Than He Found Them.” Keith spends significant time advocating locally and in Washington for public works and the nation’s infrastructure. He served on APWA’s Government Affairs Committee from 2011-2016 (including two years as chair). He has also testified before the House Committee on Natural Resources (on two occasions) concerning National Environmental Protection Act reforms. In addition to his life membership with APWA, Keith is also a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers. Keith has a BSCE from North Carolina State University and is a registered Professional Engineer in the State of North Carolina. **Kristina Swallow, P.E., F. ASCE, Pres. 18 ASCE** Kristina is an Assistant City Manager for the City of Tucson, where she plays a pivotal role in enhancing urban development and community services. With over three decades of experience in engineering and management, Kristina is committed to creating innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for residents. In her current position, Kristina oversees a range of departments, focusing on infrastructure, urban planning, and economic development. Her leadership has been instrumental in implementing programs that improve customer service, streamline city processes, and promote sustainable growth. Kristina holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from University of Arizona and a master’s degree in civil engineering from University of Nevada, Las Vegas. She is a member and served as the 2018 President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). **Lita Laven, P.E., M.ASCE** Lita is a Project Manager III for the Engineering and Construction Department at the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District in Cleveland, Ohio. She received her B.S. in Civil Engineering from The George Washington University and is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Ohio. She has been active in ASCE for over twenty years, including Cleveland Section Past President, Wastewater Chapter Chair for the Ohio Report Card, Fly-In participant, and a member of the Energy, Environment, and Water Policy Committee. **Luca Magenes, P.E., P.Eng, M.ASCE** Luca is a Product Line Manager at Powell Industries. He specializes in engineering and product development for the energy and electrical power industries. He has led the design and execution of projects supporting the Energy Infrastructure throughout his 15-year career. Luca holds a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from the University of Pavia. He is an active member of the IEEE, AISC, NFPA, and ASCE. As an ASCE member, he has co-authored several publications, technical reports, and an ASCE standard. He is a licensed professional engineer in several US states, Canada (ON), and Italy. **Maria Lehman, P.E, NAC, F.ASCE, ENV SP, Pres. 23 ASCE** Maria is GHD’s Infrastructure Market Leader for the United States, as well as a Principal and shareholder and serves on the company’s U.S. Board of Directors. She was the former COO and Acting Executive Director of the New York State Thruway Authority and Commissioner of Public Works for Erie County, NY, as well as many private sector roles. She has over 40 years of diverse, increasingly responsible, multi-disciplinary technical and leadership experience, both in the private and public sectors. She received her BS in Civil Engineering at the State University of New York at Buffalo, Magna Cum Laude, and is a licensed Professional Engineer in several states. Maria also has a certificate in Board Governance, from the Wharton School of Executive Management. Maria was the 2023 President of ASCE. She is the Vice Chair of President Biden’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council, since 2022. Maria also serves at the Legislative Chair for ACEC–NY. Maria has won numerous awards including and the ASCE President’s Medal, ASCE Lifetime Achievement Award for Service to the Profession in Region 1, National Edmund Friedman Young Engineer Award, State University of New York at Buffalo’s School of Engineering Alumna of the Year, New York Governor’s Award for Excellence in Business and the New York State Society of Professional Engineers Engineering Manager of the Year. In 2022, Maria was inducted into the National Academy of Construction. **Marsha Anderson Bomar, F.ITE, Ph.D., AICP, ENV SP, F.ASCE, Pres. 26 ASCE** Marsha is currently a Transportation Strategic Advisor to GHD. In the past decade she has served as the Interim Commissioner of Transportation and Deputy Commissioner, Engineering for the Atlanta Department of Transportation and was the Assistant General Manager for Capital Programs Delivery with MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Regional Transit Authority). She is currently the President Elect of ASCE and has previously served as a Board member and Treasurer. Marsha was President of ASCE’s Transportation and Development Institute, most recently chairing the 2024 International Conference on Transportation and Development and was also elected to the Technical Region Board of Governors. She has been a certified Envision TM Sustainability Professional and Trainer since 2013 and has brought her passion for sustainable and resilient infrastructure to all of her project work. She served as the Transit Chapter Chair on the 2019 Georgia Report Card and was an advisor on the 2024 edition. She has a B.S. and M.S. from the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn (now Tandon School of Engineering, NYU), as well as a M.S.E. in Civil Engineering from Princeton University and a Ph.D. from the College of Environment and Design at the University of Georgia. She served as an elected official on the Duluth (GA) City Council from 2006 – 2022 and was elected to the Inaugural Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority in 2018. **Marsia Geldert-Murphey, P.E., F.ASCE, Pres. 24 ASCE** Specializing in transportation and geotechnical engineering, Marsia currently works for the Lochmueller Group, a Midwestern consulting firm, where she is the Illinois State Director. She has three decades of experience in civil engineering and construction, and just completed a term as ASCE President. Marsia led the St. Louis Section as president in 2006 and served on the ASCE Board of Direction from 2016-2019 as the Region 7 Director. She completed a term as ASCE President in October. Her extensive ASCE activities include service on several Society-level committees such as Public Policy and Practice, Program and Finance, Leader Training, and Diversity and Women, as well as serving as a mentor **Matt Kirby, P.E., MLE, M.ASCE** Matt is the Director of Rail Public Projects & Programs for Michael Baker International, focusing on publicly-funded improvements to both freight and passenger rail systems. He has 12 years of experience on various rail and roadway design and program management projects. In addition to working with CAI, he is currently the ASCE T&DI Local and Student Chapter Council Chair and a co-chair of the Report Card for Illinois’s Infrastructure, and previously served as an Illinois Section Director and Chair of the Illinois Section Chapter of T&DI. He serves in the community as a board member for the ACE Mentor Program of Illinois. **Matthew Brua, P.E., M.ASCE** Matthew is a Transportation Project Manager at Banner Associates in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Since graduating from South Dakota State University, he has designed and managed transportation projects in the Upper Midwest, with many of the projects being DOT-type. He has been involved with ASCE since being a student and is currently the President of the South Dakota Section. **Michael Miller, P.E., P.Eng., F.SEI, F.ASCE** Michael is Vice President of Engineering Services of Exo Group, LLC. He is an ASCE Fellow, and Chair of the new American Society of Civil Engineers structural loading standard for overhead power lines and has served on many other committees to develop manuals of practice and standards for the overhead power line industry over his 37 years in the overhead powerline industry. He is also the engineer of record for thousands of miles of new high and extra high voltage transmission structure designs across multiple states in the US and Canadian Provinces and has worked for utilities (US-DOE Bonneville Power Administration) and for an international manufacturer of steel latticed towers and tubular steel poles. He is also an active member of IEEE and CIGRE. In 2012, Michael received ASCE’s Gene Wilhoite Award presented by the Structural Engineering Institute for his significant lifetime contributions to the advancement of the “Art and Science of Transmission Line Engineering”. **Michael Schipper, P.E., M.ASCE** Since 2001 Schipper has served as Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority’s Deputy General Manager for Engineering and Project Management. He is responsible for the planning, design, and construction elements of GCRTA’s Capital Improvement Program. At GCRTA he led the nationally recognized HealthLine Bus Rapid Transit program from preliminary engineering into final design, construction and operation. Prior to joining GCRTA he managed and designed numerous highway, bridge, turnpike and municipal infrastructure projects in the private and public sector. He was the recipient of the ASCE Cleveland Section’s Outstanding Civil Engineer of the Year Award in 2010. He has Civil Engineering degrees from the Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and the University of Texas at Arlington and is a Registered Professional Engineer in the states of Ohio and Texas. He is a Past President of both the Cleveland Section of ASCE and the Cleveland Engineering Society. **Mike Tilchin, P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE** Mike has 42 years of experience in environmental science and engineering, and in project and program management. He serves as a Senior Environmental Consultant to Jacobs Engineering for Superfund, brownfields, water, and R&D programs for U.S. EPA. Mike previously served as the vice-chair of EPA’s National Environmental Justice Advisory Council (NEJAC), and chaired NEJAC work groups on the Superfund program and community air monitoring, providing recommendations to the EPA Administrator on specific actions to make these programs responsive and effective in meeting the needs of environmental justice communities. Mike is on the Board of Directors for the Anacostia Watershed Society, an environmental group dedicated to cleaning up the Anacostia River and improving the quality of life for communities in the watershed through stewardship, advocacy, recreation, and education programs. He was a founder and is an active member of the American Council of Engineering Companies’ Remediation Work Group. He is a licensed professional engineer in Virginia. **Norma Jean Mattei, P.E., Ph.D, Pres. 17 ASCE** Norma is an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of New Orleans. Appointed by President Biden, she now serves on the National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC). She served as the senior civilian Member and one of two civilian civil engineer Commissioners on the Mississippi River Commission (MRC), nominated by President Obama and as 2017 President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), chairing that organization’s Board of Direction that year. **Otto Lynch, P.E., F.SEI, F.ASCE** Otto has over 36 years in electrical substation, transmission, and distribution line design and construction on projects around the world. He currently holds the position of Vice President and Head of Power Line Systems at Bentley Systems. Prior to the acquisition, he served as President and CEO of Power Line Systems. Otto is a registered Professional Engineer and an active member of many ASCE, IEEE, and ANSI technical committees related to the overhead power line industry. Otto was honored in 2012 by receiving ASCE’s Gene Wilhoite Innovations in Transmission Line Engineering Award and inducted as a Fellow in ASCE’s Structural Engineering Institute and a Fellow in ASCE. Otto was also the 2022 recipient of the ASCE Walter P. Moore, Jr. Award in recognition of his dedication to and technical expertise in the development of structural codes and standards. **Pat Lach P.E., CFM, M.ASCE** Pat is a Principal Engineer at Hey and Associates, Inc. working out of the Chicago office and he is responsible for the Chicago engineering staff. He has over 23 years of experience in both public and private sector planning, design and construction projects involving civil engineering, water resources, environmental engineering, wetlands/ecology, and landscape architecture. His areas of expertise include civil and site design, stormwater infrastructure design, green infrastructure planning and design, and hydrologic and hydraulic modeling practices. His involvement with ASCE began in college at the University of Notre Dame and has continued throughout his professional career including serving on the Illinois Section Board as President, chairing the most recent Report Card for Illinois Infrastructure committee, serving on the ASCE State Government Relations and Grassroots committee, and now serving on the ASCE Committee for America’s Infrastructure. **Rebecca Shelton, P.E., F.ASCE** Rebecca is Director of a large metro Atlanta water, wastewater and stormwater utility serving over one million residents with a $500 million per year budget. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering from the University of Central Florida and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. She has more than 25 years of experience as a civil engineer and is a registered Professional Engineer in Georgia. She was named 2022 Civil Engineer of the Year in Georgia by the American Society of Civil Engineers and has been recognized multiple times as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Georgia Engineering by Engineering Georgia magazine. She is an active member of ASCE’s Committee for America’s Infrastructure, two time Past-President of the Rotary Club of Buford/North Gwinnett, and current Region 5 Governor for ASCE. **Reece Shaw P.E., MBA, BCPE, M.ASCE** With over 40 years of global experience, Reece is currently an Executive Vice President at TKC Engineering. Reece is known for his expertise in port and marine project, program, and construction management. His mission is to meet the needs of clients and stakeholders by creating value in their complex and multi-disciplinary projects through innovative and cost-effective strategies. **Rob Victor P.E., F.ASCE** Rob is a Vice-President and Mid-Atlantic Division Manager for Atkins Réalis. His current focus is operations, business development and involvement in large-scale infrastructure projects. Rob’s career has allowed him to live and work in Pittsburgh, St. Louis, Seattle, Baltimore, Washington DC, and New Delhi and Mumbai, India on a variety of infrastructure roles and projects. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Civil Engineers and is a past-Board Member. He chaired ASCE’s Advisory Committee that published the “2013 Infrastructure Report Card” and the “Failure to Act” Economic Report series. Rob grew up in St. Louis and holds a BS from the University of Michigan and a MS from the University of Illinois. He is a licensed professional engineer in six jurisdictions. **Ronald Carrington, P.E., M.ASCE** Ronald is a registered Professional Engineer and has been an active member of the American Society of Civil Engineers since 1993. His 42-year career in the power line industry has included engineering and management of some of the largest transmission line projects in the US. He is an Executive Vice President of POWER Engineers, served on the POWER Board for 12 years, the past five as Executive Chair. In 2017, Ronald received ASCE’s Gene Wilhoite Award presented by the SEI for his significant lifetime contributions to the advancement of the “Art and Science of Transmission Line Engineering”. Ronald is past Chair of the ASCE Electrical Transmission Structures Committee. He has also served as a Task Committee member and Vice Chair for the third and fourth editions of ASCE Manual of Practice No. 74. For the past 20 years he has served as a Steering Committee member for the Electrical Transmission and Substation in Structures Conferences held in 2006, 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, 2022 and is the current Chair for the ETS Conference for 2025. He is also the current Subcommittee Chair for Chapter 10, Atmospheric Icing for ASCE 7-28. **Terrence Smith, Aff.M.ASCE** Terence is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Smith’s Research & Gradings. He founded the company in 1992. For more than three decades, Smith’s Research & Gradings has conducted independent research and has provided analytics to finance critical infrastructure assets. He is also Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Smith Information Services, LLC, which provides restructuring and disaster recovery for critical infrastructure assets of sovereign, sub-sovereign and non-governmental organizations. In March 2023, Terrence was appointed to the President’s National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC) Electrification Subcommittee. In March 2024, he was reappointed to the NIAC to serve on the Disaster Response and Resiliency Subcommittee. **Tor Anderzen, P.E. F.ASCE** Tor lives in Palmer, AK. He is an Airforce Planner that has 20 years’ experience as an airport engineer. He serves on the ASCE Board of Direction as the Region 8 representative. Tor led the 2017 and 2021 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure and is one of the authors of the 2025 Report Card for Alaska’s Infrastructure. Tor is one of the authors of the aviation chapter in ASCE’s 2021 and 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. **Vikas “Vik” Verma, Aff.M.ASCE** Vik is the Chair for the Broadband Section of the 2024 ASCE Wisconsin Section Infrastructure Report Card. Previously, he served as a member of the Dams Section of the 2021 ASCE Wisconsin Section Infrastructure Report Card. Vik has been an active member of ASCE for 25 years in both Texas and Wisconsin. Previously, he has served as President of the ASCE Northeast Texas Branch, Vice-President – Professional of the ASCE Texas Section, Chair of the ASCE. as Strategic Planning Committee, and other leadership roles within ASCE. Vik is currently employed as a Structural Engineer with Bassett Mechanical in Kaukauna, Wisconsin and is a licensed professional engineer in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Texas. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of California, Davis, a Master of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University, and a Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas at Tyler. --- ### [Investment Pays](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/) **Published:** May 24, 2024 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Introduction In 2024, ASCE provided its latest economic estimate on the investment needed for infrastructure categories to reach and maintain a state of good repair, which would be reflected in the Report Card with a B. This data shows progress made in infrastructure, while highlighting increasing needs ahead. ASCE’s 2024 Bridging the Gap study, which captures 11 of the 18 Report Card categories, calculated that American families would save $700 annually if Congress “continues to act” with investment levels established in recent fiscal years. That includes appropriation amounts set by the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and other legislation. For example, in the two Water Transportation categories–Inland Waterways and Ports – $45 billion would support a full state of good repair, and $32 billion was the anticipated investment over the next 10 years. That leaves a $13 billion gap. For all 11 infrastructure categories in Bridging the Gap, ASCE estimated $2.9 trillion of additional investment would be necessary to achieve good repair. That gap between planned and necessary investments was less than ASCE’s 2020 economic study estimated, illustrating the progress made through recent federal investments. ### Ten-Year Gaps with Continue to Act Scenario, 2024-33 ![Donut chart showing total needs $3,549; blue segment $1,242 and purple segment $2,293.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/surface-transporation-investment.jpg "surface-transporation investment") ###### Surface Transportation ![Donut chart showing total needs $45; blue segment $13 and purple segment $32, with the center text 'TOTAL NEEDS $45'.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/water-transportation-investment.jpg "water-transportation investment") ###### Water Transportation ![Donut chart: total needs $1,886, with blue segment $578 and purple segment $1,308.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/energy-investment.jpg "energy investment") ###### Energy ![Donut chart: total needs $310; blue segment $114 and purple segment $197.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/aviation-investment.jpg "aviation investment") ###### Aviation ![Donut chart showing total needs of $1,653 with $999 in the blue segment and $655 in the purple segment.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/water-investment.jpg "water investment") ###### Drinking Water, Wastewater, & Stormwater ![Legend: purple dot = Anticipated Investment; blue dot = Gap. Caption: Total Needs minus Anticipated Investment equals Gap; Dollars in 2022 billions; rounding may occur.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/investment-legend.jpg "investment-legend") With the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, ASCE estimates investment needs total $9.1 trillion for all 18 Report Card categories to reach a state of good repair. Public data and ASCE’s 2024 Bridging the Gap study forecast $5.4 trillion in public and private investments in the 10-year period, 2024 through 2033, if Congress continues recent funding levels. **This leaves a gap of $3.7 trillion in investments for America’s infrastructure if we keep investing at current funding levels.** However, if Congress were to snap back to investment levels in place prior to recent increases in federal spending, that gap would increase significantly. In fact, ASCE’s Bridging the Gap study, which assesses just 11 of the 18 categories in the 2025 Report Card, finds that the snapback gap would equal the entirety of the 2025 Report Card gap: $3.7 trillion. That figure does not include broadband, dams, levees, hazardous and solid waste, parks, and schools, which represent, at a minimum, an additional gap of $746 billion for a total of $4.4 trillion. Additionally, in that snapback scenario, ASCE estimates meaningful economic harm: $5 trillion lost in gross economic output over 20 years, from 2024-2043, and a reduction of $244 billion in U.S. exports in those same years. Pre-2021 levels of federal investment also mean a job loss of 344,000 in one snapshot year of 2033. The reduced investments would result in $1.9 trillion in lost disposable income for American families within the 20 years studied. ## Cumulative Investment Needs ##### BY INFRASTRUCTURE CATEGORY BASED ON MAINTAINING CURRENT FEDERAL INVESTMENT LEVELS ALL VALUES IN BILLIONS | **Infrastructure System** | **Needs1** | **Funded 2024-332** | **Funding Gap 2024-33** | |---|---|---|---| | Aviation3 | $310 | $197 | $113 | | Bridges4 | $538 | $165 | $373 | | Broadband5 | $61 | $61 | $0 | | Dams6 | $185 | $20 | $166 | | Drinking Water7 | $670 | $361 | $309 | | Energy8 | $1,886 | $1,308 | $578 | | Hazardous & Solid Waste9 | $162 | $146 | $16 | | Inland Waterways & Ports10 | $45 | $32 | $13 | | Levees11 | $97 | $7 | $91 | | Public Parks12 | $106 | $62 | $44 | | Rail13 | $145 | $113 | $32 | | Roads14 | $2,233 | $1,549 | $684 | | Schools15 | $1,100 | $671 | $429 | | Transit16 | $618 | $466 | $152 | | Wastewater + Stormwater17 | $983 | $293 | $690 | | **Total** | **$9,139** | **$5,450** | **$3,689** | #### [Footnotes](#1741640352106-3b1bbd58-f1ea) 1. Total needs are estimated as deferred maintenance necessary to reach a system-wide state of good repair. Estimates from publicly available data and not adjusted for inflation. 2. Assumes investments continue at levels from recent appropriations, as shown by public data and based on authorized amounts set by the 2021 Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act, 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, and other legislation. State and local investments continue at FY2024 levels. Values not adjusted for inflation. 3. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 4. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 5. Data taken from Cartesian and the Fiber Broadband Association. 6. Data taken from the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, Congressional Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Congressional Budget Office, and the Associated Press. 7. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 8. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 9. Data taken from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Department of Energy, and Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO). 10. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 11. Data taken from ASCE 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure and the Congressional Budget Office. 12. Data taken from the National Parks Service, the National Association of State Parks Directors, the Trust for Public Land, Property and Environmental Research Center, and Congressional Research Service. 13. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 14. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. 15. Data taken from the 21st Century Schools Fund. 16. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study 17. Data taken from ASCE Bridging the Gap 2024 study. [Download the Report](/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Investment-Pays.pdf) ## Previous ASCE Economic Studies [![Aerial view of a long canal flanked by grassy embankments and a narrow road, with green fields and distant hills under a blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GettyImages-1146123433.jpg "The Thermalito Power Canal in Oroville, Butte County, North California")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-ports-inland-waterways.pdf) ### [Ports and Inland Waterways (2021)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-ports-inland-waterways.pdf) [![Commercial airliner landing on a runway with landing gear down beneath a cloudy sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GettyImages-1182691534.jpg "Passenger airplane landing")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-aviation.pdf) ### [Airports (2021)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-aviation.pdf) [![Sunlit landscape with metal electric transmission towers and power lines across a grassy field at sunset.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GettyImages-183423424.jpg "Powerlines in California USA")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Failure-to-Act-Energy-2020-Final.pdf) ### [Electricity (2020)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Failure-to-Act-Energy-2020-Final.pdf) [![Aerial view of a wastewater treatment plant: circular clarifier tank beside long aeration basins and brown pipes on a grassy area](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GettyImages-1437909264.jpg "Aerial view of modern water cleaning facility at urban wastewater treatment plant. Purification process of removing undesirable chemicals, suspended solids and gases from contaminated liquid")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Failure-to-Act-Water-Wastewater-2020-Final.pdf) ### [Water and Wastewater (2020)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Failure-to-Act-Water-Wastewater-2020-Final.pdf) [![Brooklyn Bridge over the East River with Lower Manhattan skyscrapers in the background at sunset.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/GettyImages-500619014.jpg "Powerlines in California USA")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-surface-transportation.pdf) ### [Surface Transportation (2021)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/failure-to-act-2021-surface-transportation.pdf) [Donate Now](https://www.ascefoundation.org/how-to-give/online-gift) [Become a Member](https://www.asce.org/membership/join) --- ### [Report Card Release RSVP](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-card-release-rsvp/) **Published:** March 12, 2025 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** **Thanks for your interest in attending or viewing the Report Card Release and Solutions Summit.** **Please fill out the form below to register to attend in-person or watch online!** - How will you be attending?\*Please make a selection belowIn-PersonOnline - When will you attend?\*Please make a selection belowAll DayMorningAfternoon - Name\* First Last - Email\* - Employer/Organization\* - Job Title\* - Email Updates\* I agree to receive emails about the Report Card Release - CAPTCHA Submit --- ### [Contact Us](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/contact-us/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** **If you are a member of the media and would like to speak with an ASCE spokesperson about the Report Card and the state of our nation’s infrastructure, please contact:** **Kevin Longley** Director, Public Affairs & Media Relations [202-789-7846](tel:2027897846) \| [klongley@asce.org ](mailto:klongley@asce.org) **If you are looking for a speaker from ASCE to speak on the Report Card, please contact:** **Josh Shumaker** Director, Policy Research & Industry Relations [202-789-7854](tel:2027897854) \| <jshumaker@asce.org> ##### Have a question about the Infrastructure Report Card or how you can help to raise the grades? Contact us using the form below! - Instagram This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. - Name\* First Last - Email\* - Organization - Message\* - Do you want to sign up to receive email updates? - Yes - CAPTCHA Submit --- ### [ASCE Foundation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/asce-foundation/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The [ASCE Foundation](http://www.ascefoundation.org/) is committed to supporting civil engineering programs that strengthen the profession and further civil engineers’ charge to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public. The investments we’ve seen over the last few years have helped raise America’s infrastructure grades. While we can celebrate the progress we’ve made, this progress is just a down payment toward ensuring the long-term success of America’s infrastructure systems. If we don’t keep acting, the quality of life for generations will be affected. The ASCE Foundation supports the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*, along with other ASCE programs that help bring visibility to the nation’s infrastructure crisis. ASCE programs, including *Report Cards for State Infrastructure*, are placing civil engineers at the forefront of the conversation to address these infrastructure challenges. You can have an active role by inspiring future generations of civil engineers to tackle challenges head-on through your support of the ASCE Foundation. Gifts to the Foundation’s Report Card for America’s Infrastructure Fund will help support a wide variety of activities to address the infrastructure challenges identified in the 2025 Report Card. To make a donation to the Report Card Fund click [here](https://www.ascefoundation.org/report-card). Learn more and donate at [www.ascefoundation.org](http://www.ascefoundation.org/). [ ![donate to asce foundation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Bridge-5_JBrady-1.jpg) Donate Today! How to give an online gift Keep Reading ](https://www.ascefoundation.org/how-to-give/online-gift) [ ![asce foundation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/homepage-capital.jpg) ASCE Foundation Infrastructure Keep Reading ](https://www.ascefoundation.org/what-we-fund/engineering-programs) --- ### [About ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The [American Society of Civil Engineers](http://www.asce.org/), founded in 1852, is the country’s oldest national engineering organization. It represents more than 160,000 civil engineers in private practice, government, industry, and academia who are dedicated to advancing the science and profession of civil engineering and protecting public health, safety, and welfare. ASCE comprises 75 domestic and 17 international sections, 159 branches, and 131 younger member groups. The Society advances civil engineering technical specialties through nine institutes and leads with its many professional and public-focused programs. ASCE stands at the forefront of a profession that plans, designs, constructs, and operates society’s economic and social engine—the built environment—while protecting and restoring the natural environment. ASCE and its members have long advocated for the care of the nation’s infrastructure. ASCE issued the first *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*[ in 1998](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/). Since 2001, the Report Card has been released every four years. Using a simple [A to F school report card format](/making-the-grade/), the *2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* examines current infrastructure conditions and needs, assigns grades, and makes recommendations for how to improve in [18 categories](/infrastructure-categories/) of infrastructure. ASCE’s sections also prepare *[State Infrastructure Report Cards](/state-by-state/)*, which give state and local leaders a perspective on infrastructure systems in their communities. *State Infrastructure Report Cards* follow the methodology of the National Report Card. In addition to the Report Card, ASCE also releases policy reports on infrastructure issues. The most recent report, *[Bridging the Gap](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/)*, looks at the impact federal infrastructure investments, 2022 through 2026, have had on America’s infrastructure investment gap and how ongoing infrastructure investment at the levels set by those laws would benefit America’s infrastructure and the consequences of returning to previous funding levels. ![ASCE logo in blue with stylized lines/waves and the text AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/asce-logo.png "asce logo") [ ![asce foundation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/homepage-capital.jpg) ASCE Foundation Keep Reading ](/about-asce/asce-foundation/) [ ![asce advisory council](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/slideout-ASCE-ports_0001_Port-1_Build-Together.jpg) ASCE Committee on America's Infrastructure Keep Reading ](/making-the-grade/advisory-council/) --- ### [ASCE's 2021 American Infrastructure Report Card | GPA: C- Home 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/home/) **Published:** January 11, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Excerpt:** The American Infrastructure Report Card from ASCE provides a look at America's infrastructure problems, such as bridge, water, transportation, and more. **Content:** ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/RC2017_logomark_small.png "RC2017_logomark_small")# America's Infrastructure Scores a ## C- ## There is a water main break every two minutes and an estimated 6 billion gallons of treated water lost each day in the U.S., enough to fill over 9,000 swimming pools. ## Growing wear and tear on our nation's roads have left 43% of our public roadways in poor or mediocre condition, a number that has remained stagnant over the past several years. ## There are 30,000 miles of inventoried levees across the U.S., and an additional 10,000 miles of levees whose location and condition are unknown. ### Most Recent State Report Cards [ ![Clipboard badge showing '2026' next to the text 'Report Card for Virginia's Infrastructure'; Virginia silhouette with colorful stripes, in blue and teal on a peach background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/virginia-2026-report-card-1-featured-image.png) Virginia’s Infrastructure Maintains ‘C’ Grade Virginia’s 2026 Infrastructure Report Card Released On August 25th, ASCE’s Virginia section released the 2026 Report Card for Virginia’s Infrastructure outside of the historic Bell Tower at the Virginia Capitol Complex in Richmond. Virginia’s overall ‘C’ grade is unchanged from the last report card in 2022 and matches the… Keep Reading ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/virginia-2026-infrastructure-report-card/) [ ![Blue clipboard with the number 2026 and the outline of Arizona, beside text that reads 'Report Card for Arizona's Infrastructure' on a pink patterned background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/arizona-2026-report-card-1-featured-image.png) Arizona’s Infrastructure Earns a ‘C’: Growth Creates New Demands on the State’s Infrastructure The Arizona Section of ASCE released the 2026 Report Card for Arizona’s Infrastructure on August 11 at the Historic Senate Chambers at the Arizona State Capitol, assigning the state an overall grade of ‘C’. The grade is unchanged from Arizona’s 2020 report card and matches the national grade in ASCE’s… Keep Reading ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/arizonas-infrastructure-earns-a-c-growth-creates-new-demands-on-the-states-infrastructure/) ### Latest from our Blog [ ![Two blue luggage-tag icons frame the text '2025 ASCE REPORT CARD FOR AMERICA'S INFRASTRUCTURE' with a checkmark, set against a light purple patterned background; a biosafety-barrel icon appears on the right tag indicating infrastructure concerns.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/haz-waste-webinar-2.png) Register Now! ASCE and CEC to Host Webinar on Solutions in Hazardous Waste Infrastructure On October 27th, the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) will bring together leading practitioners and experts to explore issues and solutions in hazardous waste infrastructure. Led by ASCE with partnership from Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC), the event will provide an overview of the 2025… --- September 28, 2026 Keep Reading ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade-hazardous-waste-webinar/) ### Explore Categories [ ![Blue airplane icon indicating travel or flights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/aviation-b80.png) Aviation D+ Aviation ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue line drawing of a suspension bridge with two towers and hanging cables, shown in a simple icon style.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bridge-b80.png) Bridges C Bridges ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue Wi‑Fi signal icon indicating wireless internet connectivity](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/broadband-b80.png) Broadband C+ Broadband ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue abstract icon of a lighthouse with stylized waves on both sides.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/dams-b80.png) Dams D+ Dams ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue drinking glass icon filled with liquid up to about two-thirds full](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/drinking-water-b80.png) Drinking Water C- Drinking Water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) [ ![energy infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0001_energy.png) Energy D+ Energy ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) [ ![hazardous waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/hazardous-waste-green.png) Hazardous Waste C Hazardous Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-inland.png) Inland Waterways C- Inland Waterways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) [ ![levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-levee.png) Levees D+ Levees ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) [ ![port infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0012_barge.png) Ports B Ports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) [ ![public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-public-parks.png) Public Parks C- Public Parks ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) [ ![rail infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0019_tracks.png) Rail B- Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) [ ![road infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0018_road.png) Roads D+ Roads ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) [ ![school infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0007_school.png) Schools D+ Schools ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) [ ![solid waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0006_WASTE.png) Solid Waste C+ Solid Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![stormwater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/icon-2021-stormwater.png) Stormwater D Stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) [ ![transportation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0000_transit.png) Transit D Transit ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) [ ![wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0021_wastewater.png) Wastewater D+ Wastewater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) ### About the 2021 Report Every four years, the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Report Card for America’s Infrastructure depicts the condition and performance of American infrastructure in the familiar form of a school report card—assigning letter grades based on the physical condition and needed investments for improvement. **American Infrastructure: Below Our Feet** **American Infrastructure: The Long Haul** [ ![White arch bridge spanning a calm river, its reflection forming symmetric arches in sunset-colored water.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Hero-1-ASCE-Bridge.jpg) BRIDGING THE GAP REPORT Infrastructure investments save money for American families and businesses Visit Report ](https://bridgingthegap.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [ ![The U.S. Capitol dome framed by autumn trees on a bright day with a clear blue sky and lamp post nearby.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Resource-center-3-670-303.jpg) ASCE Member-Only Resource Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center Learn More ](/iijaresources/) ![Game Changers](/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png) ### Innovating Infrastructure Solutions by State [ ![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-e1614608625860.jpg) Georgia, Inland Waterways, National Category Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/) [ ![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-e1614608555445.jpg) National Category, North Dakota, Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/) [ ![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-e1614608632617.jpg) Energy, Massachusetts, National Category Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/) [ ![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-e1614608632617.jpg) Energy, National Category, Ohio First Gas-Hydrogen Power Plant in the U.S. Makes Waves in Ohio ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/first-gas-hydrogen-power-plant-in-the-u-s-makes-waves-in-ohio/) [ ![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-e1614608625860.jpg) National Category, North Carolina, Stormwater Flood-Prone Town Uses Predictive Modeling to Protect Residents ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/flood-prone-town-uses-predictive-modeling-to-protect-residents/) [ ![bridge](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-bridge-5-e1614608690365.jpg) Bridges, Michigan, National Category MDOT deploys unique technology to inspect underwater infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/mdot-deploys-unique-technology-to-inspect-underwater-infrastructure/) [ ![towers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy1-e1614608647938.jpg) Energy, National Category Oregon city generates recoverable energy from underground water pipeline ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/oregon-city-generates-renewable-energy-from-underground-water-pipeline/) [ ![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-e1614608555445.jpg) California, National Category, Roads Recycled Roadways Paving the Future ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/recycled-roadways-paving-the-future/) [ ![port](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-port-e1614608602916.jpg) California, National Category, Ports Digitized shipping program improves efficiency at Port of Los Angeles ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/digitized-shipping-program-improves-efficiency-at-port-of-los-angeles/) [ ![pothole](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads1-e1614608563261.jpg) Arizona, National Category, Roads Arizona’s I-10 Incorporates First-of-its-Kind Dust Detection ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/arizonas-i-10-incorporates-first-of-its-kind-dust-detection/) [ ![metro](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-rail-e1614608572349.jpg) District of Columbia, National Category, Rail Amtrak’s New Acela Improves Efficiency, Speed ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/amtraks-new-acela-improves-efficiency-speed/) [ ![autonomous shuttle service](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-transit2-e1614608392690.jpg) National Category, Ohio, Transit Autonomous shuttle service increases equity in Columbus, Ohio ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/autonomous-shuttle-service-increases-equity-in-columbus-ohio/) ## Find Your State Choose a State to See Infrastructure Facts:Choose by NameAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaPuerto RicoRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming [![]()![]()](/state-item/puerto-rico/) ## Infrastructure is Everywhere ASCE’s map showcases the many networks of infrastructure systems across the country – roads, parks, schools, drinking water reservoirs, and more – that serve as the backbone of our economy and quality of life. [View Your Community’s Infrastructure](/infrastructure-is-everywhere/) [![Mapping America's Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Screen-Shot-2021-03-02-at-12.36.56-PM.jpg "Screen Shot 2021-03-02 at 12.36.56 PM")](/infrastructure-is-everywhere/) ## Sign Up For Email Updates Select your home state, and we'll let you know about upcoming legislation. "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit *ASCE stores and processes the information you provide to us in accordance with our terms and conditions and privacy policy. ASCE uses your information to manage your requests or inquiries and to support our delivery of productsand services to you. [Tweets by ASCEGovRel](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) [ ![American flag waving in front of a neoclassical government building with tall columns and ornate detailing, against a blue sky, curved façade.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/hp-cta-img.jpg) Connect with your Legislators Take Action Today ](/take-action/) --- ### [COVID-19 Resources](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/covid-19-resources/) **Published:** January 5, 2021 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Infrastructure is the foundation that connects U.S. businesses and enables communities to thrive. Our roads, water systems, energy grid and more help drive the economy, support our quality of life and ensure public health and safety. Unfortunately, we have been underinvesting in our infrastructure for decades. In 2019, the U.S. spent just 2.5% of our GDP on infrastructure, down from 4.2% in the 1930s. From 2016 to 2025, we’ll underinvest in our infrastructure by $2 trillion, according to the 2017 ASCE Infrastructure Report Card. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has made a difficult situation worse. A sizable portion of our existing infrastructure systems are supported with user-generated revenue streams. With the onset of the pandemic, commercial water use is down, commuters are staying off the roads and away from transit, and airports are virtually empty. Meanwhile, municipal and state budgets are buckling under unprecedented demands, meaning less support is available for parks, schools, and other publicly-owned infrastructure, precisely at the time we should be investing. **Congress should make infrastructure investment a centerpiece of its immediate response and long-term economic recovery strategy. Now is the time to renew, modernize, and invest in our infrastructure to maintain our international competitiveness.** [COVID Stimulus Relief Map](/stimulus-relief-map/) [Back to ASCE Resources](/resources/) --- ### [Take Action](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/) **Published:** February 15, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** # Thank Your Legislators The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act ([IIJA](https://www.asce.org/-/media/asce-images-and-files/advocacy/documents/2021-asce-memo-senate-bipartisan-infrastructure-deal.pdf)) provides $1.2 trillion for our nation’s bridges, roads, rail, airports, clean water, public transit, and school facilities. The bipartisan bill was signed into law by President Biden on November 15. The legislation marks the largest U.S. federal infrastructure investment in generations. **[Thank your Member of Congress](https://cqrcengage.com/asce/app/write-a-letter?2&engagementId=513234) for supporting public safety, resilience, and basic maintenance by voting yes on the IIJA.** [Get Engaged](https://votervoice.net/ASCE/home) [ ![budget reconciliation package](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/hp-cta-img.jpg) Latest News & Updates See All News ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/) ## Join the Conversation ### Let everyone know how important it is that we continue to invest in the future of America’s infrastructure. [Tweets by ASCEGovRel](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) ![how to fix america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/news-89x78.png "news") ### Join ASCE [Join ASCE](https://www.asce.org/join/) ![economic](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/economic-89x78.png "economic") ### Donate [Donate](https://www.ascefoundation.org/how-to-give/online-gift) ![icon-contact-get-involved](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/icon-contact-get-involved-89x78.png "icon-contact-get-involved") ### Have a Question? [Contact Us](/take-action/contact-us/) --- ### [Infrastructure Failure to Act Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** [ Download the Full Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/FTA_Econ_Impacts_Status_Quo.pdf) ## 2021 REPORT: ECONOMIC IMPACTS OF STATUS QUO INVESTMENT ACROSS INFRASTRUCTURE SYSTEMS ***Failure to Act: Economic Impacts of Status Quo Investment Across Infrastructure Systems*** quantifies how the persistent failure to invest in our aging infrastructure impacts the U.S. economy, including GDP, jobs, personal disposable income, and business sales. The electricity and water/wastewater reports were conducted after this full economic study. ## Snapshot of Economic Impact From Reversing Infrastructure Failure ASCE finds that with an increased investment of $281 billion a year, which amounts to $5.48 more per household a day, the U.S. can eliminate this economic burden, by 2039: - $10 trillion in GDP, nearly half of the annual U.S. GDP in 2019 - More than $23 trillion in total output (primarily business sales) - More than three million jobs in 2039, two times the number of Walmart employees in the U.S. - More than $3,300 in a family’s annual disposable income each year from 2020 to 2039 – over half of the average American household’s monthly expenditure of $5,102. ***Failure to Act: Economic Impacts of Status Quo Investment Across Infrastructure Systems* is an update to the ASCE Failure to Act economic series. It addresses current infrastructure gaps between today’s investment and needs and how these gaps will affect the future productivity of industries, national competitiveness, and future costs to households.** **Download the infrastructure failure report and urge your representatives to act before it is too late.** [ Download the Full Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/FTA_Econ_Impacts_Status_Quo.pdf) --- ### [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-iija/) **Published:** July 10, 2023 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) provides significant new funding to improve the condition of infrastructure systems across the country. IIJA is the largest investment in the resilience of physical and natural systems in American History. The IIJA represents the culmination of more than 20 years of advocacy and education by ASCE members to elected officials and decision-makers. This bipartisan bill will help improve all categories in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IIJA-Infographic.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/topicon.png "topicon") # The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act ## is a $1.2 Trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill #### and includes funding for our: ##### **![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0015_Layer-3.png "icons-_0015_Layer-3")** ##### BRIDGES ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0016_Layer-2.png "icons-_0016_Layer-2") ##### ROADS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0014_Layer-4.png "icons-_0014_Layer-4") ##### TRANSIT SYSTEMS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0013_Layer-5.png "icons-_0013_Layer-5") ##### DAMS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0009_Layer-9.png "icons-_0009_Layer-9") ##### AVIATION ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0010_Layer-8.png "icons-_0010_Layer-8") ##### PASSENGER RAIL NETWORK ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0011_Layer-7.png "icons-_0011_Layer-7") ##### DRINKING WATER ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0012_Layer-6.png "icons-_0012_Layer-6") ##### ENERGY ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0008_Layer-10.png "icons-_0008_Layer-10") ##### WASTEWATER ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0007_Layer-11.png "icons-_0007_Layer-11") ##### SOLID WASTE ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0006_Layer-12.png "icons-_0006_Layer-12") ##### PORTS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0005_Layer-13.png "icons-_0005_Layer-13") ##### SCHOOLS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0000_Layer-18.png "icons-_0000_Layer-18") ##### INLAND WATERWAYS ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0001_Layer-17.png "icons-_0001_Layer-17") ##### HAZARDOUS WASTE ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0002_Layer-16.png "icons-_0002_Layer-16") ##### LEVEES ##### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icons-_0003_Layer-15.png "icons-_0003_Layer-15") ##### BROADBAND ![Pink horizontal arrow pointing right, with a corner at the left edge.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/arrow2.png "arrow2") ## Over 5 Years ## Surface Transportation The IIJA reauthorizes surface transportation programs with **34% more funding than the FAST Act** provided. The IIJA provides close to $500 billion for road and bridge programs in communities across America.” 21 new DOT grant programs that will make targeted investments to repair bridges, improve the resiliency of our surface transportation system, and more. **These funds go a long way to address the $1.2 trillion, 10-year, surface transportation funding gap that ASCE identified in the 2021 Report Card.** ![Cartoon gray SUV with roof rails, yellow headlights, and large alloy wheels seen from a side angle.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/car-1.png "car-1") # $500B ##### **FOR ROAD AND BRIDGE PROGRAMS** # 21 NEW ##### **D.O.T. GRANT PROGRAMS FOR BRIDGES AND MORE** ![Front view of a stylized train on tracks with a distant city skyline in the background](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/train.png "train") ## Transit![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grade.png "grade") The infrastructure package contains approximately **$90 billion** in investment for transit programs in urban and rural regions. # $90B ##### **IN INVESTMENTS** ## Drinking Water![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grades-_0002_Layer-2.png "grades-_0002_Layer-2") ## ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grades-_0000_Layer-4.png "grades-_0000_Layer-4")Wastewater The bill provides **$55 billion** to upgrade water infrastructure and replace lead service lines throughout the country. [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IIJA-Infographic.jpg) ![Illustration of a faucet with a blue water stream and a purple '$55B UPGRADE' label in the lower left.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/water-4.png "water-4") ![Red-and-white lattice high-voltage transmission tower with insulators on its arms and a shadow on the ground.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/tower-4.jpg "tower-4") ## ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grades-_0000_Layer-4.png "grades-_0000_Layer-4")Energy The bill invests **$73 billion to rebuild the electric grid,** calls for building thousands of miles of new power lines, and expanding renewable energy. The bill also includes several provisions aimed at reinforcing the resilience of the electric grid, such as a nationwide grid reliability program. That new program would be authorized at **$5 billion over five years** for projects, activities, technologies, equipment and hardening measures that reduce the likelihood and consequences of disruptive events. # $73B ##### **TO REBUILD THE ELECTRIC GRID** ## Resilience ![Colorful cityscape illustration with tall buildings, houses, trees, and people walking, biking, and playing in a park.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/reslience.png "reslience") Make communities safer and more resilient to the impacts of climate change and cyber-attacks, with an investment of over **$50 billion.** This includes funds to protect against droughts and floods, in addition to a major investment in weatherization. ##### The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is the largest investment in the resilience of physical and natural systems in American history. #### The IIJA represents the culmination of more than 20 years of advocacy and education by ASCE members to elected officials and decisionmakers. The bipartisan bill will help improve all of the 17 categories in the 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/reportcard-logo-400x347.png "reportcard logo") [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/IIJA-Infographic.jpg) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/the-impact/contact-us/) --- ### [IIJA Charts: Infrastructure Law Projects Showing Progress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iija-charts/) **Published:** August 29, 2023 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ##### Investments from the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is beginning to spur improvements in America’s built environment. The IIJA, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, has begun to reverse decades of underinvestment in our transportation and water systems. ## Bridges In Poor Condition ###### The number of bridges in poor condition is slowly ticking down across the country. Bridges received a C grade in the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*. At that time, estimates showed our bridges needed a 58% annual funding increase to fully reverse declining conditions and bring our bridge stock back to a state of good repair. Federal investments starting in 2021 have helped reduce that gap and the funding is helping to rehabilitate poor condition bridges nationwide. [Learn More About IIJA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) ## Age and Number of Public Transit Vehicles ###### The average age of vehicles operating on our transit networks is improving. Aging vehicle fleets can translate to higher maintenance costs and worsening reliability. Meanwhile, the number of vehicles on the road serving customers has also increased slightly since 2021. Transit earned a D- grade in the 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure.* The IIJA provides $90 billion to help address the $176 billion, 10-year transit backlog. Public transit is essential to everyday living in communities across the country, providing access to jobs, schools, shopping, healthcare, and other services while enabling equitable access and sustainable mobility options. [Learn More About IIJA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) ## High Hazard Potential Dams with EAPs ###### The number of high hazard potential dams with emergency action plans is increasing. A high hazard classification isn’t related to condition, but rather an indication that should a dam fail, it would likely likely cause loss of life. The 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure gives dams a D and recommended dam owner-operators develop Emergency Action Plans for all High-Hazard Potential dams. Government funding assisted an increase in facilities with those EAP guidelines, up to 90% in 2022. [Learn More About IIJA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) ## Airports: Large Hub Upgrades ###### The number of large airports across the nation that are benefiting from upgrades and rehabilitations has doubled over the past three years. Specifically, 17 of the country’s 31 large hub airports – facilities that host at least 1% of passenger boardings nationwide – have been upgraded since 2020. The 2021 *Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* gave Aviation a D+. The IIJA provides $25 billion for our airports over five years, which will help address the $111 billion 10-year funding gap identified by ASCE. [Learn More About IIJA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) --- ### [Container Ship Size Through the Years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/container-ship-size-through-the-years/) **Published:** June 26, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ### Container Ship Size Through the Years - 1968 - 1972 - 1980 - 1984 - 1996 - 1997 - 2002 - 2003 - 2005 - 2006 - 2012 - 2013 - 2014/15 - 2018 Encounter Bay **1,530 teu** ![blue ship](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship1.gif) Hamburg Express **2,950 teu** ![blue ship](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship2.gif) Neptune Garnet **4,100 teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship3.gif) American New York **4,600 teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship4.gif) Regina Maersk **6,400 teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship5.gif) Susan Maersk **8,000+ teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship6.gif) Charlotte Maersk **8,890 teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship2002.gif) Anna Maersk **9,000 teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship7.gif) Gjertrud Maersk **10,000+ teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship9.gif) Emma Maersk **11,000+ teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship10.gif) Marco Polo (CMA CGM) **16,000+ teu** ![blue boat](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship11.gif) Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller **18,270 teu** ![blue freighter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship12.gif) CSCL Globe/MSC Oscar **19,000+ teu** ![blue freighter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship13.gif) Name TBD **22,000 teu** ![blue freighter](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/ship14.gif) --- ### [Water & Wastewater Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/water-wastewater-investment/) **Published:** July 13, 2023 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/topicon-water.png "topicon-water") # Water & Wastewater Investment ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/color-logo-2017.png "color-logo-2017") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grades2-_0001_Layer-1.png "grades2-_0001_Layer-1") ## Drinking ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/grades2-_0000_Layer-2.png "grades2-_0000_Layer-2") ## Wastewater ![Blue water storage tank connected to a vertical pipe with a small valve on top.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphics-2017-infographic-_0005_Layer-1-356x400.png "graphics-2017-infographic-_0005_Layer-1") # 155,000 **DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS ACROSS THE U.S.** ![Abstract geometric design with a beige background and overlapping gray and navy shapes.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphics-2017-infographic-_0003_Layer-2-356x400.png "graphics-2017-infographic-_0003_Layer-2") # 800,000 **MILES OF PUBLIC SEWAGE PIPES IN THE U.S.** ![Radiant floor heating diagram: white tubing runs under a floor across a blue area and connects to a boiler and pipes leading to a house.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphics-2017-infographic-_0002_Layer-3.png "graphics-2017-infographic-_0002_Layer-3") # 500,000 **MILES OF PRIVATE LATERAL SEWERS** ![Stylized industrial machine with white and gray piping, a grated top, and a large circular outlet on a blue background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphics-2017-infographic-_0000_Layer-5-356x400.png "graphics-2017-infographic-_0000_Layer-5") **MANY WATER MAINS AND PIPES WERE LAID IN THE EARLY TO MID-20th CENTURY** #### WITH A LIFESPAN OF # 75-100 YEARS **DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS ACROSS THE U.S.** ![Illustration of a white plumbing pipe with joints and a leak directing water into a large blue water droplet.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphic-last-356x400.png "graphic-last") # 56 MILLION **NEW USERS WILL BE CONNECTED TO CENTRALIZED TREATMENT SYSTEMS OVER THE NEXT 20 YEARS** ![Decorative abstract illustration with blue shapes suggesting water and motion, no important informational content.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/graphics-2017-infographic-_0001_Layer-4.png "graphics-2017-infographic-_0001_Layer-4") # 240,000 **WATER MAIN BREAKS OCCUR EACH YEAR IN THE U.S.** ## Water and Wastewater Investment Needs, 2016-2025 #### ESTIMATED FUNDING: ## $45 Billion 45BILLION #### TOTAL NEEDED: ## $150 Billion 150BILLION ![Graphic text: '$105 BILLION INVESTMENT GAP' in white on a black background, highlighting a $105B investment shortfall.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/150B-stat.png "150B-stat") ## Solutions to Raise the Grades #### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icon-infographic-energy_0000_Layer-2-copy-2.png "icon-infographic-energy_0000_Layer-2-copy-2")Reinvigorate the State Revolving Loan Fund (SRF) program #### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icon-infographic-energy_0001_Layer-2-copy.png "icon-infographic-energy_0001_Layer-2-copy")Fully fund the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) at its authorized level #### ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/icon-infographic-energy_0002_Layer-2.png "icon-infographic-energy_0002_Layer-2")Preserve tax exempt municipal bond financing to provide communities with affordable access to capital for water infrastructure [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/2017Wastewater_InfographicWeb.pdf) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit #### [Have a Question? Ask Today!](/the-impact/contact-us/) --- ### [America's Infrastructure Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/americas-infrastructure-grade/) **Published:** March 8, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![America's Infrastructure report card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/OverviewInfographic_WebFinal.jpg "OverviewInfographic_WebFinal") [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/OverviewInfographic_WebFinal.pdf) --- ### [Asset Management Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/asset-management-report/) **Published:** October 11, 2019 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** [![Cover image for an ASCE report titled 'Changing the Infrastructure Equation: Using Asset Management to Optimize Investments,' with yellow, blue, and teal geometric panels showing infrastructure like cranes and highways.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Screen-Shot-2019-10-11-at-12.40.42-PM-314x400.png "Screen Shot 2019-10-11 at 12.40.42 PM")](/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/PolicyPaper2019_ASCEDraft.pdf) [Download Now](/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/PolicyPaper2019_ASCEDraft.pdf) --- ### [Surface Transportation Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/surface-transportation-infrastructure/) **Published:** March 8, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![America's infrastructure report card](http://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/SurfaceTransportation_Web-2.jpg "SurfaceTransportation_Web (2)") [Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/SurfaceTransportation_Web-2.pdf) --- ### [Gas Tax Holidays - Get the Facts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-holidays-get-the-facts/) **Published:** March 17, 2022 **Author:** ASCE Staff **Content:** ## Federal gas tax holidays save just a few dollars at the pump, but it causes lasting damage to our transportation infrastructure funding streams. Gas prices are volatile right now. In 2022, the national average of a gallon of gas reached $5.01 in June, before dropping to around $3.50 by the end of the year. High prices put a significant strain on family budgets and cut into bottom lines for businesses that rely on transporting goods and services throughout the nation. Solutions must be explored to reduce costs when they rise, but suspending the 18.3 cents-per-gallon federal gas tax – as President Biden, some members of Congress, and many governors are proposing – won’t do much to get us there. In fact, at most, the gas tax holiday would save Americans less than $2 per 10 gallons, and there’s no guarantee any of these savings would make their way to taxpayer wallets. At the state level, research has confirmed that gas tax rates are just one part of a pricing scheme that also factors in the price of crude oil and other state-specific considerations. An analysis from the American Road and Transportation Builders Association’s Transportation Investment Advocacy Center found that, on average, only one-third of an increase or decrease in state gas tax rates is passed through to consumers in the retail price on the day the change takes effect – with no significant impact after that time. [See how gas tax holidays impact our nation’s infrastructure](#resources) ![Person fueling a car at a gas pump, focusing on the red fuel nozzle.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/feature-gaspump.jpg "feature-gaspump") ### Quick facts on gas tax holidays and our infrastructure: ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-risk_0006_Layer-15-copy.png "icon-2021-risk_0006_Layer-15-copy") The federal government charges an **18-cent tax per gallon of gasoline** and a **24-cent tax per gallon of diesel**. Those taxes fund critical highways and public transportation through the Highway Trust Fund. ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/icon-money.png "icon-money") **Suspending the federal gas tax** would only put about **$3.63 back in the pockets** of consumers. *(Baltimore Sun)* ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/icon-chart.png "icon-chart") **Suspending the federal gas tax** for approximately 10 months **would reduce federal taxes revenue** by about **$20 billion dollars**. *(Penn Wharton University of Pennsylvania)* ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/icon-bus.png "icon-bus") **Each $1 million** in highway, bridge, and transit investment will support, on average, **21 jobs per year**. That investment in highways and transit results in a multiplier of 3.6 and 3.4, respectively, in combined direct, indirect, and induced economic output. *(TRIP 2022 report)* ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/icon-roads.png "icon-roads") **40% of major U.S. roads** are in poor or mediocre condition *(TRIP 2022 report)* ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/icon-bridge.png "icon-bridge") **1 in 3 U.S. bridges are in need of repair** – over 6,000 miles worth! *(ARTBA Bridge Report)* #### Get more gas tax information from these and other sources below! #### [Op-Ed: Penny Wise and Pound Foolish](https://www.baltimoresun.com/opinion/editorial/bs-ed-0316-gas-tax-editorial-20220315-xpnwzgov65gcrhql2ujp2dsksu-story.html) [published March 15 by the Baltimore Sun Editorial Board](https://www.baltimoresun.com/opinion/editorial/bs-ed-0316-gas-tax-editorial-20220315-xpnwzgov65gcrhql2ujp2dsksu-story.html) #### [Map: Gas taxes support much-needed bridge repairs.](https://artbabridgereport.org/) [Map of repairs from the American Road & Transportation Builders Association.](https://artbabridgereport.org/) #### [Study: Suspending the federal gas tax will save you between $16 – $47, but decrease revenue for roads and bridges $20 billion.](https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2022/3/11/effects-of-a-federal-gas-tax-holiday) [University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business, March 11, 2022 study](https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2022/3/11/effects-of-a-federal-gas-tax-holiday) #### [Gas Tax Holiday a Vacation from Common Sense](https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2022/03/14/pennsylvania-gas-tax-holiday-proposal-high-prices-gasoline/stories/202203140011) [published March 14 by the Pittsburgh-Post Gazette Editorial Board](https://www.post-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/2022/03/14/pennsylvania-gas-tax-holiday-proposal-high-prices-gasoline/stories/202203140011) #### [Study: Effects of a State Gas Tax Holiday](https://budgetmodel.wharton.upenn.edu/issues/2022/6/15/effects-of-a-state-gasoline-tax-holiday) published June 15, 2022 #### [Opinion: Yes, Gas Prices Are Up. But Cutting the Gas Tax is Not the Answer](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2022/02/10/gas-prices-up-tax-holiday-not-the-answer/) published February 10 by Catherine Rampell #### [Study: How Changes in State Gas Tax Rates Affect Prices Motorists Pay at the Pump](https://transportationinvestment.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2022_Pump_Price_Report.pdf?mc_cid=e468b92547&mc_eid=1808bcb553) American Road and Transportation Builders Association, March 2022 #### [Study: Funding America’s Transportation System](https://tripnet.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Funding_Americas_Transportation_System_Report_March_2022.pdf) TRIP, March 2022 #### [Research: To Tax or Not to Tax?](https://www.resources.org/common-resources/to-tax-or-not-to-tax-the-answer-may-surprise-you/) West Virginia University, May 2022 --- ### [Infrastructure Is Everywhere](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-is-everywhere/) **Published:** February 23, 2021 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** --- ### [What Legislators Are Saying](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/what-legislators-are-saying/) **Published:** February 20, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ##### Take a look at what mayors, governors, representatives, and Congress people are saying about infrastructure in our country. Join in the conversation to let them know how important it is to you that we continue to invest in the future of America’s infrastructure. The inclusion of a message in this feed is in no way an endorsement by ASCE or the Infrastructure Report Card. --- ### [Join the Conversation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/join-the-conversation/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ##### Take a look at what people are saying about infrastructure in our country. Join in the conversation to let everyone know how important it is that we continue to invest in the future of America’s infrastructure. The inclusion of a message in this feed is in no way an endorsement by ASCE or the Infrastructure Report Card. [Tweets by ASCEGovRel](https://twitter.com/ASCEGovRel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw) --- ### [BIL Project Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) **Published:** September 15, 2022 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is benefiting communities all around the country. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) is a five-year, $1.2 trillion federal infrastructure bill that was signed into law in November 2021. The bipartisan IIJA marks the country’s largest investment in infrastructure across all Report Card categories in nearly a century. Today, communities in all 50 states are seeing the benefits of the bipartisan infrastructure law, as funds go toward fixing potholes, rehabilitating bridges, replacing lead pipes, and cleaning up the environment. Use the map below to explore some of the projects in your state or region. And, be sure to check out the videos provided by [Accelerator for America](https://www.acceleratorforamerica.org/) and [United for Infrastructure](https://www.acceleratoraction.org/) as part of their #InfrastructureWorks campaign. Filter by Category: - [ ![All Categories](/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-all-categories-on.png) All ](/bil-project-map/) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/airport-off.png) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/airport-on.png) Aviation ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=aviation) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-bridges-off-1.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-bridges-on-1.jpg) Bridges ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=bridges) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-broadband-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-broadband-on.jpg) Broadband ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=broadband) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-drinking-water-off-1.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-drinking-water-on-1.jpg) Drinking Water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=drinking-water) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-hazardous-waste-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-hazardous-waste-on.jpg) Hazardous Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=hazardous-waste) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inland-waterways-off.png) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/inland-waterways-on.png) Inland Waterways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=inland-waterways) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2022_levees.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-levees-on.jpg) Levees ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=levees) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-ports-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-ports-on.jpg) Ports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=ports) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-transit-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-transit-on.jpg) Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=rail) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-communities-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-communities-on.jpg) Reconnecting Communities ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=reconnecting-communities) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-roads-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-roads-on.jpg) Roads ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=roads) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-stormwater-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-stormwater-on.jpg) Stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=stormwater) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-rail-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-rail-on.jpg) Transit ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=transit) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-roads-off-1.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-roads-on-1.jpg) Transportation ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=transportation) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-wastewater-off-1.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-wastewater-on-1.jpg) Wastewater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=wastewater) - [ ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-water-green-off.jpg) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-water-green-on.jpg) Water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/?category=water) --- ### [Event Calendar](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/event-calendar/) **Published:** July 21, 2022 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** 16Feb #### [IIJA Implementation Webinar Series: Water infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/events/iija-implementation-webinar-series-water-infrastructure/) 23Mar #### [IIJA Implementation Webinar Series: Ports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/events/iija-implementation-webinar-series-ports/) 20Apr #### [IIJA Implementation Webinar Series: State transportation funding increases and what it means for projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/events/iija-implementation-webinar-series-state-transportation-funding-increases-and-what-it-means-for-projects/) 25May #### [ASCE’s IIJA Implementation Webinar Series: Building a more resilient grid](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/events/asces-iija-implementation-webinar-series-building-a-more-resilient-grid/) 15Jun #### [ASCE’s IIJA Implementation Series: Building A More Resilient Grid](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/events/asces-iija-implementation-series-building-a-more-resilient-grid/) No event found! --- ### [Resilience Toolkit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit/) **Published:** June 7, 2023 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** --- ### [Sitemap](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sitemap/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** - [ Marine Highways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/marine-highways/) - [ Resource Center: Transit & Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/resource-center-transit-rail/) - [ Resource Center: Broadband, Parks, Schools, Hazardous Waste & Solid Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/resource-center-broadband-parks-schools-hazardous-waste-solid-waste/) - [ Resource Center: Roads & Bridges ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-roads-bridges/) - [ Resource Center: Ports & Inland Waterways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-ports-inland-waterways/) - [ Resource Center: Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-justice-equity-diversity-inclusion/) - [ Resource Center: Energy ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-energy/) - [ Resource Center: Airports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-airports/) - [ Resource Center: Dams & Levees ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-dams-levees/) - [ Resource Center: Drinking Water, Wastewater & Stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-drinking-water-wastewater-stormwater/) - [ Resource Center: Transit & Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/iija-transit-rail/) - [ Stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) - [ Broadband ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) - [ Wastewater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) - [ Transit ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) - [ Solid Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/) - [ Schools ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) - [ Roads ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) - [ Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) - [ Ports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) - [ Public Parks ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) - [ Levees ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) - [ Inland Waterways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) - [ Hazardous Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) - [ Energy ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) - [ Drinking Water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) - [ Dams ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) - [ Bridges ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) - [ Aviation ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) - [2021 Infrastructure Report Card Release](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release/) - [2021 Solutions Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release-event/) - [2025 Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/) - [2025 Release Event & Solutions Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2025-release-event/) - [2026 Infrastructure Investment Forum](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-forum/) - [America’s Construction-Ready Infrastructure Projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/stimulus-relief-map/) - [ASCE Infrastructure StoryMaps](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/all-story-maps/) - [ASCE’s 2021 American Infrastructure Report Card \| GPA: C- Home 2024](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/home/) - [Aviation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/aviation/) - [BIL Project Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bil-project-map/) - [Bridge Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bridges/) - [Container Ship Size Through the Years](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/container-ship-size-through-the-years/) - [COVID-19 Status Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/covid-status-report/) - [Dams](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/dams/) - [Drinking Water](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/drinking-water/) - [Energy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/energy/) - [Event Calendar](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/event-calendar/) - [Events RSVP](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rsvp/) - [Flowing Forward: How Water Infrastructure Shaped America](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/flowing-forward-storymap/) - [Game Changer Submitted](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/game-changer-submitted/) - [Gamechangers Reception](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers-reception/) - [Gas Tax Holidays – Get the Facts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gas-tax-holidays-get-the-facts/) - [Grading the States: State Infrastructure Report Cards](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/grading-the-states-storymap/) - [Ground Level Resiliency: How Communities Can Lead](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit-storymap/) - [Hazardous Waste](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/hazardous-waste/) - [IIJA Charts: Infrastructure Law Projects Showing Progress](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iija-charts/) - [IIJA Timeline](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iija-timeline/) - [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA)](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-iija/) - [Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Implementation Resource Center](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/iijaresources/) - [Infrastructure Investment Forum Online](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-investment-forum-online/) - [Infrastructure Is Everywhere](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-is-everywhere/) - [Infrastructure Super Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-super-map/) - [Inland Waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/inland-waterways/) - [Investment Pays](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/) - [Infrastructure Investment Gap 2020-2029](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/investment-gap-2020-2029/) - [Failure to Act Economic Reports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/failure-to-act-economic-reports/) - [COVID-19 Resources](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/economics/covid-19-resources/) - [Kern County’s Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/kerncounty/) - [Levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/levees/) - [Make Infrastructure a Priority](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/make-infrastructure-a-priority/) - [Mobile Friendly Stream](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/mobile-friendly-stream/) - [NCSL2020](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ncsl2020/) - [News & Insights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/) - [ASCE in the News](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/asce-in-the-news/) - [Blog](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/blog/) - [Events](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/events-webinars/) - [Northeast Ohio Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/northeastohio/) - [Paths to Prosperity: How Transportation Infrastructure Built America](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/paths-to-prosperity-storymap/) - [Port to Pantry](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/port-to-pantry/) - [Ports](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/ports/) - [Public Parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/public-parks/) - [Rail](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/rail/) - [Report Card Release – Live from the Newseum!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-card-release-live-from-the-newseum/) - [Report Card Release RSVP](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/report-card-release-rsvp/) - [Resilience Toolkit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/resilience-toolkit/) - [Riverside and San Bernardino Counties Inland Empire Infrastructure Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/sbrivercounties/) - [Road Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/roads/) - [Schools](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/schools/) - [Solid Waste](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solid-waste/) - [Story Map: How Infrastructure Impacts Daily Life \| ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/story-map/) - [Take Action](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/) - [What Legislators Are Saying](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/what-legislators-are-saying/) - [Tell Your Legislators](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/tell-your-legislators/) - [Join the Conversation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/join-the-conversation/) - [Contact Us](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/contact-us/) - [Test page](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/test-page/) - [The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Breakdown](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/bipartisan-infrastructure-law-breakdown/) - [Transportation Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/transit/) - [US Electricity Generation Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/electricity-generation-map/) - [Wastewater Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wastewater/) - [\#GameChangers: Innovative Infrastructure Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers/) - [Share Your Game Changer](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers/share-your-game-changer/) - [Making the Grade: US Infrastructure Assessment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/) - [Acknowledgments](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/acknowledgements/) - [Making the Grade Videos](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/making-the-grade-videos/) - [Report Card History](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) - [1988 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1988-report-card/) - [1998 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1998-report-card/) - [2001 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2001-report-card/) - [2003 Progress Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2003-progress-report/) - [2005 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2005-report-card/) - [2009 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2009-report-card/) - [2013 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2013-report-card/) - [U.S. Infrastructure Grade: Explore the Categories](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/infrastructure-categories/) - [About ASCE](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/) - [ASCE Foundation](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/asce-foundation/) - [ASCE Committee on America’s Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/about-asce/advisory-council/) - [State Infrastructure Facts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-by-state-infrastructure/) - [Solutions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/) - [Story Map](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/solutions/story-map/) - [The Impact](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/) - [Asset Management Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/asset-management-report/) - [Economic Impact](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/economic-impact/) - [Explore Infographics](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/) - [America’s Infrastructure Grade](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/americas-infrastructure-grade/) - [Failure to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/failure-to-act/) - [Surface Transportation Infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/surface-transportation-infrastructure/) - [Water & Wastewater Investment](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/water-wastewater-investment/) - [Charts, Facts, & Figures](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/charts-facts-figures/) - [Infrastructure Failure to Act Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/failure-to-act-report/) - [Terms & Conditions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/terms-conditions/) - [Privacy Policy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/privacy-policy/) --- ### [2021 Solutions Summit](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release-event/) **Published:** February 15, 2021 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** *Note: Must press play to begin program.* # 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure # Solutions Summit # Recordings ## March 3, 2021 ### Overview The American Society of Civil Engineers released their 2021 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure on March 3, 2021. The quadrennial assessment graded the condition and performance of 17 categories of infrastructure – including drinking water, roads, levees, dams, and much more. After the grades were unveiled, ASCE convened a program of elected officials, decision makers, and thought leaders to discussion solutions to raising our infrastructure GPA. ### Welcome Kristina Swallow, Infrastructure Report Card Chair Welcome from Jean-Louis Briaud, Ph.D, PE, President, American Society of Civil Engineers Opening Conversation with Maryland Governor Larry Hogan ### Grade Reveal ### Keynote Remarks #### Session Details & Speakers A conversation with Rep. James E. Clyburn (D-SC), Leon Topalian, President and CEO, Nucor, and Kristina Swallow, PE, Past President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Director, Nevada Department of Transportation *Remarks throughout the day from Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE), Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), and Rep. Peter DeFazio (D-OR)* ### Spotlight On Resilience: How to Build Back Better #### Session Details & Speakers Funding is limited, and our infrastructure has taken a beating from increased storms, flooding, wildfires, and sea level rise. How do we build back better within the confines of existing rules and regulations? New legislation like the Resilient Revolving Loan Fund offer new opportunities, but what else is needed to help communities adapt? Technology can also play a key role in modernizing our built environment, applying predictive analytics, and enabling systems that can better protect communities and facilitate more efficient recovery when disaster strikes. **Speakers:** - John Barton, Senior Vice President, HNTB - Dr. Shawn Wilson, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Transportation - Carol Haddock, PE, Director, Houston Public Works - Moderated by Elizabeth Ruedas, P.E., At-Large Director, ASCE Board of Direction ![energy infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0001_energy.png "icon-2021-_0001_energy") ### Energy in Infrastructure in America: Modernizing the Electric Grid [Energy](/cat-item/energy/) #### Session Details & Speakers The U.S. electric grid is undergoing significant change as states move towards ambitious goals to increase reliance on renewables alongside a move to electrify. These actions can also put pressure on aging and congested transmission lines – the “interstate highway” of the electricity grid – to move large quantities of renewables around the country. It will be critical that policy makers and stakeholders work together in the planning of this energy transition and future grid. How do we utilize new technologies to modernize the grid, provide consumers and businesses with more control of their energy assets while also successfully transition to a more sustainable and reliable energy landscape? Hear from an expert panel on the essential next steps to modernize the nation’s electric grid as we transition to renewables, and about a North Carolina town that’s setting the standard for innovation in the sector. **Speakers:** - Ruth Gratzke, President, Siemens Smart Infrastructure U.S. - Rob Gramlich, Executive Director, Americans for a Clean Energy Grid - Otto Lynch, PE, President, Powerline Systems - Swati Daji, Senior Vice President for Customer Solutions and Strategy, Duke Energy - Moderated by Tom Smith, Executive Director, American Society of Civil Engineers ### ![Brand logo with abstract green buildings, wavy lines, and an orange house icon with waves on the right.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/dams-levees.png "dams-levees")Revisiting Risk For Aging Dams and Levees [Dams](/cat-item/dams/) [Levees](/cat-item/levees/) #### Session Details & Speakers There are more than 90,000 dams and over 35,000 miles of levees in the U.S., most of which are older than 50 years and many that are in need of significant repair. As limited funding becomes available for repair and rehabilitation, protecting public safety must be top of mind. Since 2007, federal legislation has provided a strong framework for managing risk; however, needs far outweigh available funding. Meanwhile, our understanding of threats to dams and levees – such as flooding, earthquakes, and environmental changes – continues to evolve, and populations below dams and behind levees are growing. Please join us as we convene a panel of experts to discuss planning for and communicating the risks of our dam and levee systems, and to discuss solutions to make our communities more resilient. **Speakers:** - Representative John Garamendi (D-CA) - Greg Paxson, PE, National Practice Leader for Dams, Schnabel Engineering - David A. Raff, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer, Bureau of Reclamation - Bill McCormick, PE, President, Association of Dam Safety Officials and Chief, Dam Safety Branch, Colorado Division of Water Resources - Jenifier Boyer, Emergency Management Coordinator for Midland County, Michigan - Moderated by Emily Feenstra, Managing Director, Government Relations & Infrastructure Initiatives, American Society of Civil Engineers ### ![Bus icon, pink suspension bridge, orange building icon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/transit-bridge-road.png "transit-bridge-road")Transportation: Innovation in Times of Crisis [Transit](/cat-item/transit/) [Roads](/cat-item/roads/) [Bridges](/cat-item/bridges/) #### Session Details & Speakers A pandemic that decimates transit and state DOT revenues – transportation agencies are no stranger to staring down a crisis and adapting to deliver key lifeline services to communities. As we emerge from the pandemic and a prolonged shutdown, how do we deliver on a big and bold vision for transportation? What innovations were already driving the industry that can get accelerated now? **Speakers:** - Maria Lehman, PE, U.S. Infrastructure Lead, GHD - Jeff Nelson, Chair, American Public Transportation Association and General Manager, MetroLINK - Elizabeth Shuler, Secretary-Treasurer, AFL-CIO - Phillip Washington, CEO, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) - Moderated by Kristina Swallow, PE, Past President, American Society of Civil Engineers and Director, Nevada Department of Transportation ### ![Three icons in a row: a purple abstract symbol, a solid teal square, and an orange glass with liquid.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/waste-storm-water.png "waste-storm-water")Water: Partnerships that Work [Wastewater](/cat-item/wastewater/) [Stormwater](/cat-item/stormwater/) [Drinking Water](/cat-item/drinking_water/) #### Session Details & Speakers Managing water – from stormwater, to drinking water, to wastewater – in a more holistic way is critical to ensuring a prosperous future for all communities. Utilities across the country are taking this task to heart and innovating to drive infrastructure upgrades and processes that are more adept at managing water throughout the full cycle and capturing multiple benefits from this precious resource. Hear from about these innovations from the leaders in the field, as well as how Washington can play a supporting role. **Speakers:** - Susan Moisio, PE, Global Water Director, Jacobs - Radhika Fox, Acting Assistant Administrator, Office of Water, Environmental Protection Agency - Clarence Anthony, CEO and Executive Director, National League of Cities - Pam Elardo, Deputy Commissioner, Bureau of Wastewater Treatment at New York City Department of Environmental Protection - Moderated by Greg DiLoreto PE, Past President, American Society of Civil Engineers ### ![Pink bottle with a skull-and-crossbones symbol next to a green boat icon, indicating two symbols or logos side by side.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/inland-ports.png "inland-ports")Inland Waterways & Ports Poised to Help Us Green Our Future [Inland Waterways](/cat-item/inland-waterways/) [Ports](/cat-item/ports/) #### Session Details & Speakers As President Biden prioritizes emission reductions, inland waterways and ports are primed to help his Administration realize those goals. Goods transported on inland waterways generate low levels of carbon dioxide and can alleviate strain on other modes. Ports, meanwhile, have achieved meaningful reductions in pollutants over the last decade through innovation and cross-jurisdictional partnerships. However, our waterways and ports are playing catchup on needed investments after a generation of insufficient funding. Join us to hear from an expert panel of witnesses on how our waterways and ports are poised to deliver a greener future through eco-restoration, utilization of emissions-friendly transport, and investment, and what federal, state, and local partners can do to help us get there. **Speakers:** - Rep. Garret Graves (R-LA) - Bill Hanson, Senior Vice President, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp. - Mayor Bob Gallagher of Bettendorf, IA, Co-Chair of the Mississippi River Cities & Towns Initiative - Jennifer Belknap Williamson, Director of Engineering, Port of Portland - Moderated by Casey Dinges, Executive Advisor, American Society of Civil Engineers ### Administration Keynote Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Department of Transportation ### Explore Categories [ ![Blue airplane icon indicating travel or flights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/aviation-b80.png) Aviation D+ Aviation ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/aviation-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue line drawing of a suspension bridge with two towers and hanging cables, shown in a simple icon style.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/bridge-b80.png) Bridges C Bridges ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/bridges-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue Wi‑Fi signal icon indicating wireless internet connectivity](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/broadband-b80.png) Broadband C+ Broadband ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/broadband-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue abstract icon of a lighthouse with stylized waves on both sides.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/dams-b80.png) Dams D+ Dams ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/dams-infrastructure/) [ ![Blue drinking glass icon filled with liquid up to about two-thirds full](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/drinking-water-b80.png) Drinking Water C- Drinking Water ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/drinking-water-infrastructure/) [ ![energy infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0001_energy.png) Energy D+ Energy ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/energy-infrastructure/) [ ![hazardous waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/hazardous-waste-green.png) Hazardous Waste C Hazardous Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/hazardous-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![inland waterways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-inland.png) Inland Waterways C- Inland Waterways ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/inland-waterways-infrastructure/) [ ![levees](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-levee.png) Levees D+ Levees ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/levees-infrastructure/) [ ![port infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0012_barge.png) Ports B Ports ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/ports-infrastructure/) [ ![public parks](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/icon-2021-public-parks.png) Public Parks C- Public Parks ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/public-parks-infrastructure/) [ ![rail infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0019_tracks.png) Rail B- Rail ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/rail-infrastructure/) [ ![road infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0018_road.png) Roads D+ Roads ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/roads-infrastructure/) [ ![school infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0007_school.png) Schools D+ Schools ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/schools-infrastructure/) [ ![solid waste infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0006_WASTE.png) Solid Waste C+ Solid Waste ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/solid-waste-infrastructure/) [ ![stormwater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/icon-2021-stormwater.png) Stormwater D Stormwater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/stormwater-infrastructure/) [ ![transportation infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0000_transit.png) Transit D Transit ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/transit-infrastructure/) [ ![wastewater infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/icon-2021-_0021_wastewater.png) Wastewater D+ Wastewater ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/cat-item/wastewater-infrastructure/) ## Thank you to the Sponsors ### of the Solutions Summit ![Solid black horizontal banner centered on a white background.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-nucor-smaller-400x98.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-nucor-smaller") ![HNTB logo with navy lettering and an orange square accent on the left](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0004_HNTB_2Color_CMYK-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0004_HNTB_2Color_CMYK") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0000_Siemens-logo-use-this-version-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0000_Siemens-logo-use-this-version") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0003_Logo-GHD-High-Res-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0003_Logo-GHD-High-Res") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0001_SE_Logo_FullColor_CMYK_WhiteSlashes-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0001_SE_Logo_FullColor_CMYK_WhiteSlashes") ![Circular logo for Great Lakes Improvements with concentric maroon rings and 'Dredge & Dock Company' and 'River & Harbor' text.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-greatakes-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-greatakes") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0002_New_Jacobs_logo_rgb_black-400x300.png "Sponsors-ASCE2021-_0002_New_Jacobs_logo_rgb_black") ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/US-CAD-Logo-and-Tagline-RGB-2x-M1-400x108.png "US-CAD-Logo-and-Tagline-RGB-2x-M1") --- ### [Making the Grade Videos](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/making-the-grade-videos/) **Published:** February 13, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ###### Bridges, Roads, Aviation, and Transit ###### Wastewater & Drinking Water ###### Ports, Inland Waterways, & Rail ###### Dams & Levees ###### Energy --- ### [America’s Construction-Ready Infrastructure Projects](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/stimulus-relief-map/) **Published:** July 1, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The COVID-19 pandemic has devastated a wide range of employment sectors as well as municipal and state budgets. When compared to the previous year, Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in US states saw revenues plummet by 14% through June 2020, and the National League of Cities found 65% of cities are being forced to delay or completely cancel American infrastructure projects and capital expenditures. This is disastrous for both the safety of our nation’s critical infrastructure and workers who rely on these projects to support their families. Data compiled by the American Road & Transportation Builders Association shows at least $9 billion of construction work on transportation projects have already been shelved. In the coming months, we have a unique opportunity to reinvest in American infrastructure projects and jumpstart the US economy. There are hundreds of worthy projects in the construction pipeline across the country. While there’s no way to develop an exhaustive list, below is a snapshot of construction-ready infrastructure projects covering the categories of dams, inland waterways, clean and drinking water, and multimodal freight. Should Congress pass a comprehensive infrastructure investment package, projects like these can break ground in the near term and put people back to work. Our future economic prosperity relies on modern infrastructure, and our immediate recovery calls for large-scale reemployment. *Now* is the time to reinvest in the backbone of America – our infrastructure. *1Drinking Water and Clean Water project totals are extrapolated from the *the [Water Environment Federation](https://www.wef.org/) as well as the [Association of State Drinking Water Administrators](https://www.asdwa.org/)’* 2020 Save, Accelerate, Fill & Expedite (S.A.F.E.) Water Infrastructure Action Plan, which utilizes the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) to determine estimated costs for each state to invest in water infrastructure. The SRF Project Pipeline includes shovel-ready project estimates, but also includes some that have been conceptualized and still must undergo further planning.* *2Dams totals were provided by the* [*Association of State Dam Safety*](https://www.damsafety.org/) *and show estimated costs of projects within states who have applied for the High Hazard Potential Dam Rehabilitation Program. The overall costs of these projects reflect the figures shown for dams in this list.* *3Additional projects were compiled by members of the* [*Coalition for America’s Gateways and Trade Corridors.*](http://www.tradecorridors.org) *They include grade separations, bridge rehabilitation and replacement, modernization of marine terminals, and more.* *4Inland Waterway projects were compiled by the* [*Waterways Council, Inc* ](https://waterwayscouncil.org/)**and include lock and dam modernizations to add capacity in chambers and rehabilitation of aging components of the inland waterway assets.** --- ### [Energy](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/energy/) **Published:** March 2, 2017 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Blog](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/blog/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### Keep up with the latest in US infrastructure news from the American Society of Civil Engineers. Filter by:Select Category:National CategoryAviationBridgesDamsDrinking WaterEnergyHazardous WasteInland WaterwaysLeveesPortsPublic ParksRailRoadsSchoolsSolid WasteTransitWastewaterSelect State:StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming[Clear](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/blog/)Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. --- ### [News & Insights](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/) **Published:** January 5, 2021 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Filter by:Select Category:National CategoryAviationBridgesDamsDrinking WaterEnergyHazardous WasteInland WaterwaysLeveesPortsPublic ParksRailRoadsSchoolsSolid WasteTransitWastewaterSelect State:StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming[Clear](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/news-insights/)Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. --- ### [Thank you for signing up!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/thank-you-release-signup/) **Published:** November 5, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ##### We will send more details on the release of the 2021 Infrastructure Report Card as soon as they are available. ##### In the meantime, here are some resources in which you may be interested. #### 2017 Infrastructure Report Card: [![Bridge spans a calm river with green banks and trees along both shores under a blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/bridge-over-water.jpg "bridge-over-water")](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/americas-grades/) [View Now](/americas-grades/) #### The Latest Infrastructure News: [![Large yellow drilling rig on a sloped embankment with workers in high-visibility vests operating it against a clear blue sky.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/machines-rebuilding.jpg "machines-rebuilding")](/get-involved/latest-us-infrastructure-news/) [View Now](/news-insights/) #### State Infrastructure Report Cards: [![Long rural road stretches toward the horizon with power lines and fields on both sides at sunset.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/road-in-need-of-repair.jpg "road-in-need-of-repair")](/state-by-state-infrastructure/) [View Now](/state-by-state-infrastructure/) ### **Tell Congress to support our #InfrastructureNow by providing emergency relief to state and local governments so they may operate, maintain, and rehabilitate our nation’s infrastructure systems to preserve our quality of life.** [Take Action](/asce-engage-details/?id=508114) --- ### [Game Changer Submitted](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/game-changer-submitted/) **Published:** March 2, 2021 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Thanks for sharing your #GameChanger! --- ### [2013 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2013-report-card/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The [*2013 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure* ](https://2013.infrastructurereportcard.org/)graded 16 sectors, adding ports for the first time. Six sectors (solid waste, drinking water, wastewater, roads, bridges, and rail) each experienced incremental improvements since the last assessment in 2009. For the first time, the Report Card was available as a digital application that includes videos, state by state data, and other multimedia tools. [View the 2013 Report Card](https://2013.infrastructurereportcard.org/) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [2009 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2009-report-card/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The [*2009 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure-Full-Book.pdf) assigned a cumulative grade of D to the nation’s infrastructure and noted a five-year investment need of $2.2 trillion from all levels of government and the private sector. ASCE’s 2009 Report Card provided an assessment of the condition and need for investment of 15 infrastructure categories, including, for the first time, levees. [View the 2009 Report Card](/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure-Full-Book.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [2005 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2005-report-card/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The [*2005 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure*](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2005-ASCE-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf) assigned a cumulative grade of D for the nation’s infrastructure. The condition of our nation’s roads, bridges, drinking water systems and other public works had shown little to no improvement since 2001, with some areas sliding toward failing grades. ASCE estimated an investment need of $1.6 trillion over a five-year period from all levels of government and the private sector. [View the 2005 Report Card](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2005-ASCE-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [2003 Progress Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2003-progress-report/) **Published:** February 21, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The *2003 Progress Report for America’s Infrastructure* found that the condition of the nation’s roads, bridges, drinking water systems and other public works have showed little improvement since they were graded an overall D+ in 2001, with some areas sliding toward failing grades. [View the 2003 Progress Report](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2003-ASCE-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [2001 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/2001-report-card/) **Published:** February 21, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The *2001 Report Card* gave the nation’s infrastructure a cumulative grade of “D+” for 12 infrastructure areas. To remedy America’s current and looming problem, ASCE estimates a needed $ 1.3 trillion investment over the next five years and called for a renewed partnership between citizens, local, state and federal governments, and the private sector. Grades ranged from a high of “C+” for solid waste to a low of “D-” for schools. [View the 2001 Report Card](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/2001-ASCE-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [1998 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1998-report-card/) **Published:** February 21, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** When the federal government indicated it would not be updating *Fragile Foundations: A Report on America’s Public Work*s after a decade, ASCE used the approach and methodology to publish the first *Report Card on America’s Infrastructure* in 1998. The first Report Card graded 10 categories, giving an overall grade of D. [View the 1998 Report Card](/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/1998-ASCE-Report-Card-for-Americas-Infrastructure.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [Thank You for Contacting Us](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/thank-you-for-contacting-us/) **Published:** March 9, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Thanks for contacting ASCE about the 2021 Infrastructure Report Card! We will be in touch with you shortly. --- ### [You're On the List!](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/youre-on-the-list/) **Published:** March 9, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Thanks for signing up to receive 2021 Infrastructure Report Card updates! --- ### [Share Your Game Changer](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechangers/share-your-game-changer/) **Published:** March 8, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Do you have a #GameChanger? Do you know of an innovative project or new way that infrastructure is being planned, built or funded? Be a part of identifying the next #GameChangers that will shape the future. There’s more out there so let us know what you’ve seen that’s changing the infrastructure game. Submit your idea and links with more information here in this form. ASCE will be reviewing every submission to add to this growing list of #GameChangers. If you have an idea and want to share a PDF attachment on the #GameChanger, email it to <reportcard@asce.org>. - LinkedIn This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. - Name\* First Last - Email\* - Organization - Website - What's your #GameChanger?\* - Sign me up for infrastructure news from ASCE - Yes - Select Your Home State\*AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingArmed Forces AmericasArmed Forces EuropeArmed Forces Pacific Submit --- ### [Generic Interior](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/generic-interior/) **Published:** November 30, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ## Infrastructure is the backbone of the U.S. economy and a necessary input to every economic output. The role of infrastructure in economic growth is critical to the nation’s prosperity and the public’s health and welfare. Infrastructure’s condition has a cascading impact on our nation’s economy, impacting business productivity, gross domestic product (GDP), employment, personal income, and international competitiveness. America’s infrastructure bill is long overdue. Every four years, ASCE estimates the investment needed in each infrastructure category to maintain a state of good repair and earn a grade of B. The most recent analysis reveals the U.S. has only been paying half of its infrastructure bill for some time and failing to close that gap risks rising costs, falling business productivity, plummeting GDP, lost jobs, and ultimately, reduced disposable income for every American family. Even though the U.S. Congress and some states have recently made efforts to invest more in infrastructure, these efforts do not come close to the $2.0 trillion in needs. The good news is closing America’s infrastructure gap is possible if Congress, states, infrastructure owners, and voters commit to increasing our investment. To raise the overall infrastructure grade and maintain our global competitiveness, Congress and the states must invest an additional $206 billion each year to prevent the economic consequences to families, business, and the economy. ##### Congress and the states must invest an additional ### $206 Billion each year #### to prevent economic consequences ![Table of 2016–2025 infrastructure needs by system with three columns: Total Needs, Estimated Funding, Funding Gap; totals row shows $4,590B need, $2,526B funding, $2,064B gap.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/chart1.jpg "chart1") ![Game Changers](/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png) ### Innovating Infrastructure Solutions by State [ ![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-e1614608625860.jpg) Georgia, Inland Waterways, National Category Startup Uses Drone for Cleaning Water, Collecting Data ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/startup-uses-drone-for-cleaning-water-collecting-data/) [ ![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-e1614608555445.jpg) National Category, North Dakota, Roads North Dakota DOT Unveils Autonomous Protection Truck ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/north-dakota-dot-unveils-autonomous-protection-truck/) [ ![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-e1614608632617.jpg) Energy, Massachusetts, National Category Massachusetts implements nation’s 1st clean peak standard ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/massachusetts-implements-nations-1st-clean-peak-standard/) [ ![solar panels](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy3-e1614608632617.jpg) Energy, National Category, Ohio First Gas-Hydrogen Power Plant in the U.S. Makes Waves in Ohio ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/first-gas-hydrogen-power-plant-in-the-u-s-makes-waves-in-ohio/) [ ![inland waterway](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-inlandwaterways-e1614608625860.jpg) National Category, North Carolina, Stormwater Flood-Prone Town Uses Predictive Modeling to Protect Residents ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/flood-prone-town-uses-predictive-modeling-to-protect-residents/) [ ![bridge](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-bridge-5-e1614608690365.jpg) Bridges, Michigan, National Category MDOT deploys unique technology to inspect underwater infrastructure ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/mdot-deploys-unique-technology-to-inspect-underwater-infrastructure/) [ ![towers](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-energy1-e1614608647938.jpg) Energy, National Category Oregon city generates recoverable energy from underground water pipeline ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/oregon-city-generates-renewable-energy-from-underground-water-pipeline/) [ ![recycled roadways](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads2-e1614608555445.jpg) California, National Category, Roads Recycled Roadways Paving the Future ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/recycled-roadways-paving-the-future/) [ ![port](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-port-e1614608602916.jpg) California, National Category, Ports Digitized shipping program improves efficiency at Port of Los Angeles ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/digitized-shipping-program-improves-efficiency-at-port-of-los-angeles/) [ ![pothole](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-roads1-e1614608563261.jpg) Arizona, National Category, Roads Arizona’s I-10 Incorporates First-of-its-Kind Dust Detection ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/arizonas-i-10-incorporates-first-of-its-kind-dust-detection/) [ ![metro](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/cf-rail-e1614608572349.jpg) District of Columbia, National Category, Rail Amtrak’s New Acela Improves Efficiency, Speed ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/amtraks-new-acela-improves-efficiency-speed/) [ ![autonomous shuttle service](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-transit2-e1614608392690.jpg) National Category, Ohio, Transit Autonomous shuttle service increases equity in Columbus, Ohio ](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/autonomous-shuttle-service-increases-equity-in-columbus-ohio/) ## Sign Up For Email Updates Select your home state, and we'll let you know about upcoming legislation. "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African RepublicChadChileChinaColombiaComorosCongo, Democratic Republic of theCongo, Republic of theCosta RicaCôte d'IvoireCroatiaCubaCuraçaoCyprusCzech RepublicDenmarkDjiboutiDominicaDominican RepublicEast TimorEcuadorEgyptEl SalvadorEquatorial GuineaEritreaEstoniaEthiopiaFaroe IslandsFijiFinlandFranceFrench PolynesiaGabonGambiaGeorgiaGermanyGhanaGreeceGreenlandGrenadaGuamGuatemalaGuineaGuinea-BissauGuyanaHaitiHondurasHong KongHungaryIcelandIndiaIndonesiaIranIraqIrelandIsraelItalyJamaicaJapanJordanKazakhstanKenyaKiribatiNorth KoreaSouth KoreaKosovoKuwaitKyrgyzstanLaosLatviaLebanonLesothoLiberiaLibyaLiechtensteinLithuaniaLuxembourgMacedoniaMadagascarMalawiMalaysiaMaldivesMaliMaltaMarshall IslandsMauritaniaMauritiusMexicoMicronesiaMoldovaMonacoMongoliaMontenegroMoroccoMozambiqueMyanmarNamibiaNauruNepalNetherlandsNew ZealandNicaraguaNigerNigeriaNorthern Mariana IslandsNorwayOmanPakistanPalauPalestine, State ofPanamaPapua New GuineaParaguayPeruPhilippinesPolandPortugalPuerto RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit *ASCE stores and processes the information you provide to us in accordance with our terms and conditions and privacy policy. ASCE uses your information to manage your requests or inquiries and to support our delivery of productsand services to you. [ ![Multiple steel lattice transmission towers and power lines silhouetted against a sunset sky, highlighting the electrical grid network.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/img5.jpg) Explore Report Card Key Solutions Pellentesque nec massa eros. Proin vel magna mauris. Donec venenatis, odio id fringilla tempor, dui massa congue mi, ac pharetra ipsum dolor vel tortor. Orci varius natoque penatibus et magnis dis parturient montes, nascetur ridiculus mus lorem dolor pellentesque adipcising. View Solutions ](#) --- ### [2021 Infrastructure Report Card Release](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/2021-release/) **Published:** November 5, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### The 2021 Infrastructure Report Card will be released March 3, 2021. Sign up to receive the agenda and registration link when it’s available. - Name First Last - Email - CAPTCHA Submit --- ### [COVID-19 Status Report](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/covid-status-report/) **Published:** June 23, 2020 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** Infrastructure is the foundation that connects U.S. businesses and enables communities to thrive. Our roads, water systems, energy grid and more help drive the economy, support our quality of life and ensure public health and safety. Unfortunately, we have been underinvesting in our infrastructure for decades. In 2019, the U.S. spent just 2.5% of our GDP on infrastructure, down from 4.2% in the 1930s. From 2016 to 2025, we’ll underinvest in our infrastructure by $2 trillion, according to the 2017 ASCE Infrastructure Report Card. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has made a difficult situation worse. A sizable portion of our existing infrastructure systems are supported with user-generated revenue streams. With the onset of the pandemic, commercial water use is down, commuters are staying off the roads and away from transit, and airports are virtually empty. Meanwhile, municipal and state budgets are buckling under unprecedented demands, meaning less support is available for parks, schools, and other publicly-owned infrastructure, precisely at the time we should be investing. Congress should make infrastructure investment a centerpiece of its immediate response and long-term economic recovery strategy. Now is the time to renew, modernize, and invest in our infrastructure to maintain our international competitiveness. [ Stimulus Relief Map](/stimulus-relief-map) [ Download the Full Report](/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/COVID-19-Infrastructure-Status-Report.pdf) --- ### [blog](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/blog/) **Published:** November 22, 2019 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Port to Pantry](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/port-to-pantry/) **Published:** September 17, 2019 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![Family of four sits around a table: two parents on ends with drinks, two kids eating sandwiches together](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/pp-img1.jpg "pp-img1") ##### Infrastructure Brings You Breakfast ###### Our nation’s dams, roads, rail and more work together to bring goods to the store shelf. $3.50 **Follow the life of a breakfast bagel from the wheat fields of rural Iowa to a bakery in New Orleans, LA. See how the final price of your bagel is affected by nearly every infrastructure system.** ##### We begin our journey on a wheat farm in Central Iowa. A dam stores excess surface water for irrigating soil and growing wheat. Dams are essential to providing everyday benefits such as drinking water, hydropower, flood control, and recreation. 10 PERCENTof American cropland is irrigated usingwater stored behind dams ### What Happens if a Dam Fails? Dam failures not only risk public safety, they also can cost our economy millions of dollars in damages. Failure is not just limited to damage to the dam itself, but can threaten nearby roads, bridges, and water systems. If a dam does fail, the cost of your bagel could go up. Don't Invest D Do Invest ##### Our journey continues as the wheat for our breakfast bagel is harvested and moved on a truck. Along the way, the truck encounters rough roads. One out of every five miles of highway pavement is in poor condition and driving on roads in need of repair costs everyone money. U.S. motorists paid $120.5 billion in extra vehicle repairs and operating costs in 2015, or $533 per driver. ##### Raise the gas tax to repair roads Reducing maintenance costs of trucks carrying the wheat helps reduce the price of your breakfast bagel. In 2015Iowa raised their gas tax. Since then millions of dollars have been spent repairing roads. Don't Invest D Do Invest 40 PERCENTof additional power generation came fromnatural gas & renewable systems ##### The truck arrives at a Des Moines mill and drops off the wheat that will be used for our breakfast bagel. The mill, powered by wind energy, converts the wheat into flour. Investment in renewable energy infrastructure is helping ensure long-term capacity and sustainability. In recent years, states have diversified their energy sources to include natural gas and renewable sources such as solar and wind generation. ### Power Effect Much of the U.S. energy system was constructed in the 1950s and 1960s with a 50-year life expectancy. In the lower 48 states, more than 640,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines are reaching or at full capacity, causing unstable power systems and outages. When power outages occur along the supply chain, the cost of your breakfast bagel will increase. Power Outages of Less Than Two Hourscost American Industrial BusinessesAn AveraGe of $5000/yr Don't Invest D Do Invest ### Intermodal Connectors — From Truck to Train The flour for our breakfast bagel leaves the mill and is transported to a freight train via truck. To make the switch from one mode of transport to another, goods rely on well-maintained roads called intermodal connectors that lead to terminals such as ports and rail stations. These routes are key to the timely and reliable delivery of goods but face a backlog of over $2 billion in deferred maintenance. ## Freight Rail Gets a Boost from Investment In 2015, Class I Freight railroads **spent $27.1 Billion** maintaining, modernizing, and expanding their systems Currently significant investments need to be made to upgrade track to handle **286,000-pound rail cars,** as well as repair and replace aging bridges. ### From Train to Barge — the Nation’s Inland Waterways The flour for our breakfast bagel arrives on a freight train in St. Louis and is moved to a barge where it travels down the Mississippi River. Barges move through inland waterways with the help of locks and dams. Inland waterways support more than half a million jobs and deliver more than 600 million tons of cargo each year, or about 14% of all domestic freight. The inland water system includes **25,000 miles of waterways** and **239 locks** ### Barge Delay Many locks and dams are in poor condition and well beyond their 50-year design life. Investment has increased in recent years but upgrades still take decades to complete. Nearly half of vesselsexperience aDelay of 2+ Hours per lock Don't Invest D Do Invest ### The Port Of New Orleans The flour is transported down the Mississippi River to the Port of New Orleans. Ports are Responsible for **$4.6 trillion in economic activity — roughly 26% of the U.S. economy.** ![Globe with connected white network nodes and lines, pink location pin near Europe/Africa region, symbolizing global connectivity](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/pp-sec12-img.png "pp-sec12-img") ### Solid Waste Infrastructure Finishes the Job When you dispose of your breakfast packaging, utensils and napkins, they are deposited into landfill facilities for municipal solid waste - more commonly called trash or garbage. Many areas are looking to innovative ways to re-use solid waste for another beneficial purpose, such as converting waste to energy. In 201434% of municipal solidwaste was recycled ### Infrastructure Brings You Breakfast ##### Our infrastructure is indispensable and interconnected Dams help irrigate farmland, energy infrastructure helps produce our food, the freight network moves our commodities, and our solid waste infrastructure keeps our stores sanitary. Whether it’s rough roads, unreliable locks and dams, or congested ports, we pay the price. $0.00 #### Infrastructure Impacts Through this story, you can see how infrastructure can impact the smallest areas of your day-to-day life. Although we have made incremental progress toward restoring our nation’s infrastructure, there is more that can be done. ***Click on the below infrastructure categories to learn more about them and the improvements still needed.*** ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/pp-i1.png "pp-i1") Dam Dams provide vital service and protection to our communities and economy. The average age of the 90,580 dams in the country is 56 years. As our population grows and development continues, the overall number of high-hazard potential dams is increasing, with the number climbing to nearly 15,500 in 2016. Due to the lack of investment, the number of deficient high-hazard potential dams has also climbed to an estimated 2,170 or more. It is estimated that it will require an investment of nearly $45 billion to repair aging, yet critical, high-hazard potential dams. [Learn More](/cat-item/dams/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Roads.png "Roads") Roads America’s roads are often crowded, frequently in poor condition, chronically underfunded, and are becoming more dangerous. More than two out of every five miles of America’s urban interstates are congested and traffic delays cost the country $160 billion in wasted time and fuel in 2014. One out of every five miles of highway pavement is in poor condition and our roads have a significant and increasing backlog of rehabilitation needs. After years of decline, traffic fatalities increased by 7% from 2014 to 2015, with 35,092 people dying on America’s roads. [Learn More](/cat-item/roads/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/pp-i1.png "pp-i1") Energy Much of the U.S. energy system predates the turn of the 21st century. Most electric transmission and distribution lines were constructed in the 1950s and 1960s with a 50-year life expectancy, and the more than 640,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines in the lower 48 states’ power grids are at full capacity. Energy infrastructure is undergoing increased investment to ensure long-term capacity and sustainability; in 2015, 40% of additional power generation came from natural gas and renewable systems. Without greater attention to aging equipment, capacity bottlenecks, and increased demand, as well as increasing storm and climate impacts, Americans will likely experience longer and more frequent power interruptions. [Learn More](/cat-item/energy/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Rail.png "Rail") Rail For more than 150 years the rail network has been a critical component of the U.S. transportation system and economy. Today it carries approximately one-third of U.S. exports and delivers five million tons of freight and approximately 85,000 passengers each day. The private freight rail industry owns the vast majority of the nation’s rail infrastructure, and continues to make significant capital investment — $27.1 billion in 2015 — to ensure the network’s good condition. U.S. rail still faces clear challenges, most notably in passenger rail, which faces the dual problems of aging infrastructure and insufficient funding. [Learn More](/cat-item/rail/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Ports.png "Ports") Ports The United States’ 926 ports are essential to the nation’s competitiveness, serving as the gateway through which 99% of overseas trade passes. Ports are responsible for $4.6 trillion in economic activity — roughly 26% of the U.S. economy. As ships get bigger, congestion at landside connections to other components of the freight network increasingly hinders ports’ productivity. Similarly, on the waterside, larger ships require deeper navigation channels, which only a few U.S. ports currently have. To remain competitive globally and with one another, ports have been investing in expansion, modernization, and repair. [Learn More](/cat-item/ports/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Waterways.png "Waterways") Inland Waterways The United States’ 25,000 miles of inland waterways and 239 locks form the freight network’s “water highway.” This intricate system, operated and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, supports more than half a million jobs and delivers more than 600 million tons of cargo each year, about 14% of all domestic freight. Most locks and dams on the system are well beyond their 50-year design life, and nearly half of vessels experience delays. Investment in the waterways system has increased in recent years, but upgrades on the system still take decades to complete.[Learn More](/cat-item/inland-waterways/) ![](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Drinking-Water.png "Drinking-Water") Drinking Water Drinking water is delivered via one million miles of pipes across the country. Many of those pipes were laid in the early to mid-20th century with a lifespan of 75 to 100 years. The quality of drinking water in the United States remains high, but legacy and emerging contaminants continue to require close attention. While water consumption is down, there are still an estimated 240,000 water main breaks per year in the United States, wasting over two trillion gallons of treated drinking water. According to the American Water Works Association, an estimated $1 trillion is necessary to maintain and expand service to meet demands over the next 25 years. [Learn More](/cat-item/drinking-water/) **The U.S. must continue to invest in our infrastructure to ensure our quality of life and economic competitiveness.** [Take Action](/get-involved/tell-your-legislators/) --- ### [Failure to Act](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/the-impact/explore-infographics/failure-to-act/) **Published:** September 13, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** ![ASCE Failure to Act Infographic](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ASCE-Failure-to-Act-Infographic2.jpg "ASCE Failure to Act Infographic2")[Download Infographic](/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/ASCE-Failure-to-Act-Infographic.pdf) --- ### [Mobile Friendly Stream](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/mobile-friendly-stream/) **Published:** March 9, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** --- ### [1988 Report Card](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/making-the-grade/report-card-history/1988-report-card/) **Published:** March 7, 2017 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** The concept of a report card to grade the nation’s infrastructure originated in 1988 with the congressionally-chartered National Council on Public Works Improvement report, *Fragile Foundations: A Report on America’s Public Works.* [View the 1988 Report Card](/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/1988-Fragile-Foundations-ExSum.pdf) [Back to Report Card History](/making-the-grade/report-card-history/) --- ### [Tell Your Legislators](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/take-action/tell-your-legislators/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** #### Write an Email to Your Legislators #### Tweet at Your Legislators ![Abstract banner with three horizontal bars: gray short bar, a wide blue bar, and a wide orange bar, with partially visible black text suggesting a bold brand graphic.](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/Roads1.png "Roads1") Fix the Trust Fund @YourCongressPerson \#FixTheTrustFund to put us on a road to better transportation! #InfrastructureMatters **Your Name Here** @Your Name Here [Tweet This](/asce-engage-details/?id=282253&tweet_text=%23FixTheTrustFund+to+put+us+on+a+road+to+better+transportation%21+%23InfrastructureMatters&is_tweet=1) --- ### [Terms & Conditions](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/terms-conditions/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **Content:** These Terms and Conditions govern the use of the ASCE website, and any services contained within this site. 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American Society of Civil Engineers 1801 Alexander Bell Drive Reston, VA 20191 Phone: 1-800-548-ASCE (2723) Fax: 1-703-295-6333 --- ### [Engage Details Template](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/asce-engage-details/) **Published:** January 26, 2017 **Author:** ironcore --- ## States ### [Arizona](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/arizona/) **Published:** August 11, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** #### 2026 Report Card GPA: C The Arizona Section of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has released its 2026 Report Card for Arizona’s Infrastructure, assessing eleven infrastructure areas: aviation, bridges, dams, drinking water, energy, levees, rail, roads, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. Arizona’s infrastructure earned an overall grade of C, the same grade as the prior report card in 2020, indicative of infrastructure in mediocre condition that requires attention. Arizona continues to experience rapid population growth, with projections indicating a 26% increase between 2026 and 2060. Much of this growth is driven by the expanding technology sector in Phoenix, the nation’s fifth-largest city. However, across Arizona, critical infrastructure has not kept pace with increasing demand. Transportation, water, housing, and public service systems face significant unmet needs; challenges that are further compounded by persistent funding shortfalls across sectors. Additionally, a changing climate is greatly affecting the state with more high temperature days, increased wildfires, prolonged drought, and more intense storms resulting in flooding and erosion. Arizona’s continued growth, coupled with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, underscores the need for enhanced investment in infrastructure capacity, resilience, adaptation, and long-term sustainability. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) had helped closing gaps identified prior to 2021, by providing over $11 billion to projects statewide as of January 2025. However, state transportation revenues are not expected to cover future needs, with an expected gap of over $162 billion by 2050. Similarly, drinking water infrastructure needs are expected to exceed $12 billion over the next 20 years due to Colorado River shortages, accelerated groundwater depletion, and new federal standards for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These funding issues do not end with transportation and drinking water; these issues persist within dams, levees, bridges, transit, aviation, and stormwater sectors as well. Without significant new investments and funding solutions, Arizona’s infrastructure systems will struggle to meet the demands of a rapidly growing population and economy in the decades ahead. --- ### [Michigan](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/michigan/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **State Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Roads, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Wastewater --- ### [South Carolina](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/south-carolina/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Virginia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/virginia/) **Published:** August 25, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet **Content:** ## Key Solutions ##### Our nation’s infrastructure problems are solvable if we have leadership and commit to making good ideas a reality. Raising the grades on our infrastructure will require that we seek and adopt a wide range of solutions. ###### [Leadership & Action](/solutions/leadership-action/) Smart investment will only be possible with strong leadership, decisive action, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure. ###### [Investment](/solutions/investment/) If the United States is serious about achieving an infrastructure system fit for the future some specific steps must be taken, beginning with increased, long-term, consistent investment. ###### [Resilience](/solutions/resilience/) We must utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure can withstand or quickly recover from natural or man-made hazards. [View All Solutions](/solutions/) ![america's infrastructure](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/gc-title.png "gc-title") [![water fountain](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-drinkingwater4-400x400.jpg "cf-drinkingwater4")Drinking Water Recharging Groundwater with SWIFT Virginia Beach, Virginia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/recharging-groundwater-with-swift/)[![dumpster](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/cf-solidwaste4-400x400.jpg "cf-solidwaste4")Solid Waste Sustainable Natural Waste Management Arlington County, VA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/sustainable-natural-waste-management/)[![highway: infrastructure review](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/gc-transportation-overpass-400x400.jpg "gc-transportation-overpass")Roads Recycling Pavement Staunton, VA](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/gamechanger-item/recycling-pavement-2/)[Discover More Infrastructure #GameChangers](/solutions/gamechangers/?nat-cat=&state=virginia#gc-tiles) Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. ### Latest News Sorry, no posts matched your criteria. [See All News](/get-involved/latest-news/?nat-cat=&state=virginia) #### Sign Up For Email Updates "\*" indicates required fields First Name\* Last Name\* Email Address\* StateChoose StateAlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareDistrict of ColumbiaFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming CountryChoose CountryAfghanistanAlbaniaAlgeriaAmerican SamoaAndorraAngolaAntigua and BarbudaArgentinaArmeniaAustraliaAustriaAzerbaijanBahamasBahrainBangladeshBarbadosBelarusBelgiumBelizeBeninBermudaBhutanBoliviaBosnia and HerzegovinaBotswanaBrazilBruneiBulgariaBurkina FasoBurundiCambodiaCameroonCanadaCape VerdeCayman IslandsCentral African 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RicoQatarRomaniaRussiaRwandaSaint Kitts and NevisSaint LuciaSaint Vincent and the GrenadinesSamoaSan MarinoSao Tome and PrincipeSaudi ArabiaSenegalSerbiaSeychellesSierra LeoneSingaporeSint MaartenSlovakiaSloveniaSolomon IslandsSomaliaSouth AfricaSpainSri LankaSudanSudan, SouthSurinameSwazilandSwedenSwitzerlandSyriaTaiwanTajikistanTanzaniaThailandTogoTongaTrinidad and TobagoTunisiaTurkeyTurkmenistanTuvaluUgandaUkraineUnited Arab EmiratesUnited KingdomUnited StatesUruguayUzbekistanVanuatuVatican CityVenezuelaVietnamVirgin Islands, BritishVirgin Islands, U.S.YemenZambiaZimbabwe Are you a current ASCE member?\* Yes No By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* By clicking here, you are agreeing to receive our quarterly newsletter.\* Submit --- ### [Massachusetts](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/massachusetts/) **Published:** July 20, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [New York](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-york/) **Published:** January 20, 2017 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Alabama](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alabama/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Puerto Rico](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/puerto-rico/) **Published:** November 12, 2019 **Author:** ironcore **State Categories:** Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Roads, Solid Waste, Wastewater --- ### [Arkansas](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/arkansas/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [California](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/california/) **Published:** December 3, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Colorado](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/colorado-infrastructure/) **Published:** July 23, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Connecticut](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/connecticut/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Delaware](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/delaware/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [District of Columbia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/district-of-columbia/) **Published:** February 3, 2017 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Florida](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/florida/) **Published:** December 9, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Georgia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/georgia/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Hawaii](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/hawaii/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Idaho](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/idaho/) **Published:** September 10, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Illinois](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/illinois/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Indiana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/indiana/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Iowa](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/iowa/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **State Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Roads, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Wastewater --- ### [Kentucky](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kentucky/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Louisiana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/louisiana/) **Published:** November 12, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Maine](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/maine/) **Published:** December 3, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff --- ### [Maryland](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/maryland/) **Published:** October 23, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Minnesota](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/minnesota/) **Published:** April 30, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [Mississippi](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/mississippi/) **Published:** November 14, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff --- ### [Missouri](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/missouri/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Montana](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/montana/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Nebraska](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/nebraska/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Nevada](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/nevada/) **Published:** June 11, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [New Hampshire](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-hampshire/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [New Jersey](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-jersey/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [New Mexico](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/new-mexico/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [North Carolina](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/north-carolina/) **Published:** January 21, 2026 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [North Dakota](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/north-dakota/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Oklahoma](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/oklahoma/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Oregon](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/oregon/) **Published:** August 6, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff --- ### [Pennsylvania](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/pennsylvania/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Rhode Island](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/rhode-island/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [South Dakota](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/south-dakota/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Tennessee](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/tennessee/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Vermont](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/vermont/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **State Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Roads, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Wastewater --- ### [Washington](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/washington/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Wyoming](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wyoming/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore **State Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Drinking Water, Roads, Wastewater --- ### [Alaska](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/alaska/) **Published:** March 2, 2025 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Texas](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/texas/) **Published:** March 1, 2025 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Wisconsin](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/wisconsin/) **Published:** September 17, 2024 **Author:** ASCE Staff **State Categories:** Aviation, Bridges, Dams, Drinking Water, Energy, Roads, Solid Waste, Stormwater, Wastewater --- ### [Kansas](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/kansas/) **Published:** October 27, 2016 **Author:** ironcore --- ### [Utah](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/utah/) **Published:** May 29, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet --- ### [West Virginia](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/west-virginia/) **Published:** December 17, 2025 **Author:** Kevin Longley --- ### [Ohio](https://infrastructurereportcard.org/state-item/ohio/) **Published:** June 25, 2025 **Author:** Rob Marmet ---