Washington, D.C. — The American Public Works Association (APWA) announced its endorsement of the 2013 Report Card for American’s Infrastructure that was released today by the American Society for Civil Engineers (ASCE). A slight uptick occurred in the 2013 Report Card’s cumulative grade for the nation’s infrastructure systems, which rose to a D+ grade point average overall from a D or “Poor: At Risk” rating in 2009.
“With the slight increase shown in this year’s Report Card cumulative GPA, and with several categories noted for incremental improvements, the Report Card indicates a very moderate upward movement,” said APWA Executive Director Peter B. King. “But an overall grade of D+ remains unacceptable.” King noted. “Improving our nation’s basic infrastructure is in everyone’s best interest. Investment and system-wide improvements affect long term growth, employment and strengthens our business climate and global competitiveness.”
“Once again, the ASCE assessment shows we have a backlog of overdue maintenance that needs to be addressed to bring the nation’s infrastructure to a state of good repair,” King added. “The investment needed by 2020 across all infrastructure categories is estimated at $3.6 trillion, leaving a shortfall of $1.6 trillion. As a nation, we must create long-term funding sources, and invest, improve and enhance our critical infrastructure,” said King.
APWA also issued a statement to its 28,500 members calling on lawmakers to carefully review the report card findings and recommit to supporting infrastructure initiatives. For more information on the ASCE findings, and to take a more in-depth look at state infrastructure facts, or to download the tablet or smartphone app, go to www.infrastructurereportcard.org.
For more information on APWA, visit www.apwa.net. For APWA Media queries, please contact APWA Media Relations and Communications Manager Laura Bynum, at lbynum@apwa.net.
About APWA
The American Public Works Association (www.apwa.net) is a not-for-profit, international organization of more than 28,500 members involved in the field of public works. APWA serves its members by promoting professional excellence and public awareness through education, advocacy and the exchange of knowledge. APWA is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, has an office in Washington, D.C. and 63 chapters in North America.