The Moving Forward Act’s Proposed $1.5 Trillion in New Investments Will Improve Range of Public Infrastructure, Creating Needed Demand for Construction While Making the Economy More Efficient (AGC)
With the current surface transportation authorization’s expiration date of September 30 drawing closer, lawmakers are turning their attention to passing a new infrastructure bill. As reported by Construction Dive, “Last week, House Democrats unveiled a $1.5 trillion infrastructure bill that includes almost $500 billion of green measures proposed as part of the Investing in a New Vision for the Environment and Surface Transportation in America (INVEST in America) Act earlier this month.”
The article also stated, “In addition to the spending included in the INVEST in America Act, the larger Moving Forward Act also would provide: $300 billion for structurally deficient bridges; $100 billion for facility upgrades at high-poverty schools; $100 billion for affordable housing infrastructure; $100 billion in broadband internet; $40 billion for wastewater infrastructure; $70 billion for the electric grid for more renewable energy and upgrades; $30 billion for hospitals and other healthcare infrastructure; and $3 billion for “shovel-ready” Great Lakes, coastal and marine projects.”
In reponse to the unveiling of the bill, the chief executive officer of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), Stephen E. Sandherr, issued the following statement, “House leaders understand that one of the best ways to promote new economic growth is by investing in the nation’s aging, and often over-burdened, infrastructure. These investments will create needed new construction careers, promote demand for new construction equipment and materials, and ensure that the economy will be more efficient and effective for years to come. The new House infrastructure proposal will provide the kind of tangible benefits our economy needs to recover.”
The AGC released a full analysis, a seven-page document, providing a deep dive into the provisions of the bill, including analysis on investment and funding levels, workforce related policies, environmental initiatives and regulations, project delivery and safety, technology, research, and development. As the legislative process on this bill moves forward and amendments are adopted, AGC will continue to provide updates on this measure.
“A majority of U.S. infrastructure hasn’t been updated since the 1950’s. The transportation sector has failed to keep pace with the economy, the needs of communities, and a changing climate,” said Rep. Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael, CA). “Bridges, roads, and railways are crumbling across America at a time when it is more important than ever for us to remain connected. Vital highways in my own district are eroding into the ocean, risking lives and threatening to cut off communities. The INVEST in America Act is our generation’s opportunity to replace the outdated systems of the past with smarter, safer, and more resilient infrastructure. With this bill we can meaningfully address carbon pollution, create good-paying jobs, and support U.S. manufacturing that will benefit Americans for generations.” (Source: The Willits News)
This subject, along with many others, has been featured in recent METALCONLive! episodes which can be found by going to our METALCON Podcast Channel. METALCON will continue to monitor and provide updates of the infrastructure bill in future METALCONLive! episodes.
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