America's Infrastructure Problem

We Have An Infrastructure Problem

America's infrastructure problem is no longer a secret, yet the full extent of this issue often remains hidden from the public eye. As we engage with communities, municipalities, and engineering partners, it becomes increasingly clear that our roadways are in dire need of attention. From local gatherings to networking events, questions about the deteriorating state of our infrastructure have become a staple. In this article, we'll delve into the core of the problem and explore a fresh perspective on how to reshape the future of our roadways.

The Funding Challenge: Putting the Pieces Together

When we examine the landscape of America's roadways, a complex picture emerges. Responsibility for maintenance largely rests with municipalities, townships, and village owners. Surprisingly, only around 1.5% of maintenance and repair funding comes from the federal level. The remaining funds are cobbled together from various sources, such as grants, general funds, and taxpayer contributions. This fragmented approach has given rise to a significant issue – the backlog of maintenance and repairs that cities are struggling to tackle.

A Case Study: The Struggle of Small Communities

Let's take a closer look at Heath, Ohio, a community of around 15,000 people. With 60 miles of road under its jurisdiction, over 50 miles are maintained through local tax funding. The rest is divided among state and federal contributions. This reliance on local funding poses a challenge for Heath and countless other small communities grappling with the same issue. The consequences are clear: roads are deteriorating, citizens are dissatisfied, and businesses are affected.

A Shift in Focus: Setting Roads Up for Success

Rather than fixating solely on reactive measures like milling and overlaying, it's time for a paradigm shift. A key solution lies in a proactive approach through preservation and preventive maintenance. Just as we care for our homes and vehicles, our roadways deserve the same treatment. It's time to awaken to this reality and capitalize on the benefits it offers.

The Power of Preventive Maintenance

At Pavement Management Group, we emphasize the significance of preventive maintenance and preservation through our LinkedIn platform. While our core offering revolves around roadway condition assessment and pavement management, we recognize the importance of advocating for long-term road health. This approach is about ensuring that every dollar spent yields a lasting impact on the state of our infrastructure.

Taking Action: Embracing a Comprehensive Plan

To those responsible for maintaining roadways, the call is clear: pause and reflect. Prioritize preservation and preventive maintenance in your budget allocation. By dedicating 20% to 30% of your budget to these proactive measures, you'll unlock a substantial return on investment. Treat your infrastructure like a diversified portfolio, ensuring its long-term growth and stability.

A United Effort: Restoring America's Infrastructure Legacy

The situation demands urgency. It's time to halt the decline and take action. The countries leading the way in infrastructure development, such as China and India, share a commitment to maintaining and preserving their investments. The federal government must mirror this commitment by allocating a more substantial portion of funding to infrastructure. The race to restore America's infrastructure legacy is on, and our roadways are at the forefront of this transformation.

As we reflect on the state of America's roadways, we must acknowledge the urgency of revitalization. By prioritizing preservation and preventive maintenance, we can reverse the decline and pave the way for a resilient future. Let's heed this call, step away from the status quo, and collectively build a foundation that will carry our nation forward. For all those working tirelessly to improve our infrastructure, we salute you – keep paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. Stay tuned for more insights on our journey ahead.

Author: James Golden Founder and CEO of Pavement Management Group