The state of the nation’s 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, 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!