America's Crumbling Infrastructure Eroding Quality of Life: Report Card Assesses Condition of Nation's Infrastructure

摘要

Traffic congestion and our children's overcrowded schools are daily reminders that the state of our nation's infrastructure directly affects our economy and quality of life. The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) today released its 2005 Report Card for America's Infrastructure—assigning a cumulative grade of D for the nation's infrastructure. The condition of our nation's roads, bridges, drinking water systems and other public works have shown little to no improvement since they were graded an overall D+ in 2001, with some areas sliding toward failing grades. "Americans are spending more time stuck in traffic and less time at home with their families," says ASCE President William P. Henry, P.E., F.ASC: "We need to establish a comprehensive, long term infrastructure plan as opposed to our current 'patch and pray' method to ensure a better quality of life for everyone."