By Danielle Smith:
Tennessee gets a grade of “C” in a new Report Card about the condition of America’s infrastructure.
The American Society of Civil Engineers said the nation has a long way to go to upgrade outdated structures and systems. It gives the U.S. a “C” grade overall.
Darren Olson, chair of the report card committee, said federal investments under the Biden administration have helped but more work and funding are recommended.
“The Report Card projects an investment gap of $3.7 trillion,” Olson reported. “Funding from laws like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act have proven to be major achievements to help close these investment gaps and revitalize America’s infrastructure, but more must be done.”
Olson noted while the state did not receive an “A” grade for any of the 18 categories on the report card, there were also no failing grades. The report showed the state’s stormwater and wastewater systems, as well as its inland waterway are in need of billions of dollars in investment to make necessary upgrades.
Nationally, categories showing improvement since 2021 include bridges, dams, inland waterways rail and solid waste systems. Stormwater management and public transportation received lower grades. Olson pointed out a committee of 52 volunteers assessed data and consulted with experts to complete the report.
“The committee examines each category in the context of eight key criteria before determining a grade,” Olson outlined. “Those criteria include capacity, condition, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, innovation and resilience.”
Olson noted broadband internet stood out, receiving a “C-plus” for making significant improvements. He argued fast and reliable internet connections are essential for growth in the U.S. economy.
“In 2000, only one percent of US adults had broadband access at home, compared to 80% today,” Olson underscored. “However, it is estimated that around 12.7 million people do not have a broadband subscription.”
Olson added bad roads, power outages and travel delays from failing infrastructure cost American households about $2,700 a year.
