On the road to ruin - How America's infrastructure is failing
You’ve heard it before: America’s infrastructure is failing. Well, almost. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) reiterated its nearly-failing grade for the country’s vital infrastructure: a D+.
The ASCE report comes out once every four years, and has become a familiar bearer of bad news. But the state of the country’s roads were the standout piece of bad news in 2017.
The report found that $2 trillion would be needed over the next 10 years to get US roads back in fighting shape.
[Image: Fortune]
And there’s more reason to do that than just a smoother drive. From the report:
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 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.
President Donald Trump’s plan to spend big on infrastructure may offer some much-needed relief. However, there are some concerns over his plan to try to build infrastructure like toll roads that would pay for itself, rather than just putting up the money.
What many experts are arguing for is far less 'spectacular' than revenue-generating megaprojects, but could save more money for taxpayers in the long-term: repairing the roads that already exist.
This article was written by:
- Nicolas Rapp, Information Graphics Designer, Fortune
- Anne VanderMey, Associate Editor, Fortune
This article is published in collaboration with Fortune.
Please find the original article here.
--Future of Construction 16:27, 15 Jun 2017 (BST)
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
CIOB launches global mental health survey
To address the silent mental health crisis in construction.
New categories in sustainability, health and safety, and emerging talent.
Key takeaways from the BSRIA Briefing 2024
Not just waiting for Net Zero, but driving it.
The ISO answer to what is a digital twin
Talking about digital twins in a more consistent manner.
Top tips and risks to look out for.
New Code of Practice for fire and escape door hardware
Published by GAI and DHF.
Retrofit of Buildings, a CIOB Technical Publication
Pertinent technical issues, retrofit measures and the roles involved.
New alliance will tackle skills shortage in greater Manchester
The pioneering Electrotechnical Training and Careers Alliance.
Drone data at the edge: three steps to better AI insights
Offering greater accuracy and quicker access to insights.
From fit-out to higher-risk buildings.
Heritage conservation in Calgary
The triple bottom line.
College of West Anglia apprentice wins SkillELECTRIC gold.
Scottish government launch delivery plan
To strengthen planning and tackle the housing emergency.
How people react in ways which tend to restore their comfort.
Comfort is a crucial missing piece of the puzzle.
ECA launches Recharging Electrical Skills Charter in Wales
Best solutions for the industry and electrical skills in Wales.
New homebuilding skills hub launch and industry response
Working with CITB and NHBC to launch fast track training.