The State of Infrastructure
Even with an infusion of funds in infrastructure construction projects across the United States in recent years, a new report—just in time for the election—shows America still believes more funding should go toward rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure.
Microdesk, www.microdesk.com, Nashua, N.H., a provider of consulting services to the design, build, and operate space, recently unveiled results from its “State of the Industry” survey.
According to the company, the survey comes during a critical election year, in which infrastructure has disappeared behind other key campaign issues such as the economy, tax reform, and healthcare. One of the key findings indicates 94% of respondents agree that taxpayer dollars should go toward rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure.
Respondents also ranked infrastructure from best to worst: airports, roads, bridges. Even while respondents believe airports are in the best state, 56% still believe more dollars need to go to airport improvements.
The survey also identified how technology will influence the future of infrastructure construction. According to survey, 37% of respondents agree BIM (building information modeling) needs greater awareness and usage across all industries, in order for the United States to take full advantage to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure.
Michael DeLacey, president, Microdesk, says, “Regardless of who the next president will be, the election provides our nation with a unique opportunity to rebuild and reinvigorate our nation’s core—our infrastructure ecosystem. With its ability to stimulate growth, create jobs, and enhance adoption of more sustainable technologies, infrastructure reform must be included as a key topic in the upcoming presidential debates when the candidates discuss rebuilding our nation’s economic viability.”
As the election approaches, it will be interesting to keep an eye on infrastructure construction. Certainly, as the years progress, BIM and other advanced technologies will be able to provide the industry with a more cost effective method by which to deliver infrastructure construction projects, due to heightened efficiencies in processes.