These are certainly turbulent times in Washington. But just as partisan division appears to block progress, a new political consensus could emerge on a key initiative—and one that could provide the equivalent of long-term healthcare for the economy. In President Trump’s State of the Union address tonight, we’re likely to hear him declare that a major priority of his administration will be to rebuild America’s crumbling infrastructure. With some smart strategies, a comprehensive infrastructure package could bring both parties together while improving the nation’s structural landscape.
Most Americans are painfully familiar with the deteriorating systems that make infrastructure such a pressing issue. Bridges and roads need repair, as do waterworks, highways, rail lines, and even locks and intermodal waterways. Congested highways and airports inconvenience all of us, costing the economy real money and lost productivity. It will be costly to rebuild them, but the consequences of ignoring necessary repairs could be even greater.
