US: infrastructure investment key to manufacturers’ competitiveness

A report from the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) expresses concern for the continuing competitiveness of the USA’s manufacturing sector given the lack of investment in infrastructure, and particularly roads, highways and bridges.

The Portland Cement Association (PCA) notes that almost 71% of roads are graded fair-to-poor and investment fell 3.5% per year from 2003 to 2012.

“Investing in our national infrastructure facilitates economic growth and creates jobs,” said Ed Sullivan, chief economist and group vice president at PCA.  “It is also important to spend taxpayer money wisely by pursuing practices that will maximise our return on investment.”

The PCA recommends analysing the life cycle costs of infrastructure projects, to include maintenance and repair as well as the initial construction.

“Adoption of a so-called “life-cycle cost analysis” allows federal and state transportation officials to calculate costs over the lifetime of a project and not just initial construction costs,” Sullivan continued.  “Such an analysis examines the durability and long-term maintenance costs of various pavement and bridge construction options and ensures projects are constructed in the most cost-effective manner, saving tax dollars upfront and over time.”

Adapted from press release by Katherine Guenioui

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/30092014/us-infrastructure-investment-key-to-manufacturers-competitiveness-580/