According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), years of underinvestment in aging U.S. infrastructure has resulted in the deterioration of major public work assets, including roads, bridges, transit services, schools, and even access to clean drinking water. These systems impact every major city and community in America and, if the need is unmet, will become public health and safety risks. ASCE estimates the economic impact of these issues currently costs taxpayers $3,400 in disposable income annually, or $9 a day.
Every four years, ASCE issues The Report Card for America’s Infrastructure that details the condition and performance of infrastructure across the nation. This professional assessment by civic engineers is advancing advocacy efforts behind infrastructural renewal in America by making highly technical engineering and economic data more accessible to the public, and ultimately communicating the importance of investing in infrastructure upgrades. The assessment results in an overall letter grade for the U.S., including a grade for each category.
By building support behind investment, leadership, and preparation for the future, the program has inspired public discussion and debate around infrastructure topics. With increased public awareness, ASCE aims to inspire a commitment from all levels of government and the private sector across the U.S. with the goal of reducing the potential loss of $4 trillion in GDP, as well as prevent public and health safety risks.
Infrastructure is not a Republican or Democrat [issue]. If you want to grow American business, you’ve got to have the most modern ports, airports, locks and dams, and you’ve got to be able to get your product from the factory to the customer quickly.
— Former Vice President Joe Biden and 2020 Presidential Candidate
Did you know?
Poor infrastructure currently costs taxpayers $3,400 in disposable income annually.
Participating Organizations
American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
