A change in presidential administrations brings new opportunity to garner support for infrastructure investment, including waterways and flood-control improvements, says Steven Stockton, civilian director of civil works for the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Infrastructure investment is the economic stimulus the nation needs, he says. Engineers and public-works officials must convey that message to the new administration, Stockton advised the National Waterways Conference's annual meeting in New Orleans on Nov. 6. Stockton cited statements made by President-elect Barack Obama during the campaign as demonstrating Obama's recognition and support for infrastructure improvement. "I think, from the Corps of Engineers' perspective, Obama will be good for us," Stockton said. Although the Corps does not lobby, it is obligated to inform. "It's about how we provide public safety, maintain the environment and sustain a legacy of inland waterways for the next generation," Stockton said.
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