While the nation’s infrastructure earned a C- in the 2021 Infrastructure Report Card, Oklahoma faces infrastructure challenges of its own. For example, driving on roads in need of repair in Oklahoma costs each driver $394 per year, and 10.2% of bridges are rated structurally deficient. Drinking water needs in Oklahoma are an estimated $6.9 billion. 449 dams are considered to be high-hazard potential. The state’s schools have an estimated capital expenditure gap of $624 million. This deteriorating infrastructure impedes Oklahoma’s ability to compete in an increasingly global marketplace. Success in a 21st-century economy requires serious, sustained leadership on infrastructure investment at all levels of government. Delaying these investments only escalates the cost and risks of an aging infrastructure system, an option that the country, Oklahoma, and families can no longer afford.
Aviation
$5.6 million in 2022 airport improvement grants across 4 major airports
Drinking Water
$6.9 billion total drinking water need
Transit
5.7 million passenger trips across 37 systems in 2021
Bridges
23,220 bridges, 9.9% of which were structurally deficient in 2021
Hazardous Waste
17 Superfund sites
Wastewater
$2.4 billion total wastewater need
Dams
446 high hazard dams
Levees
100 miles of levees protect 17,000 residents.
Roads
24% of roads are in poor or fair condition.
Smart investment will only be possible with strong leadership, decisive action, and a clear vision for our nation’s infrastructure.
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.
We must utilize new approaches, materials, and technologies to ensure our infrastructure can withstand or quickly recover from natural or man-made hazards.
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