Washington State Bridge Collapse Illustrates Perils of Failing Infrastructure.
Posted by scapozzola on 05/24/2013
An interstate bridge in Washington collapsed yesterday, sending two cars into the Skagit River.
The bridge, which was built in 1955, is listed as being "functionally obsolete." According to the Associated Press, the I-5 bridge has a sufficiency rating of 57.4 out of 100, well below the statewide average rating of 80.
The bridge's collapse -- triggered when an oversize semi struck an overhead span -- is yet another reminder that much of the nation's infrastructure is in need of repair.
Such concerns about aging infrastructure and vulnerability come as President Obama has proposed a plan to “Make America a Magnet for Jobs” by investing in roads, bridges, and rail. A key element of his proposal would be to repair many of America’s 70,000 “failing” bridges.
The Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM) supports such investment and is urging the Administration to work with Congressional leaders on adopting a large-scale, long-term infrastructure program of at least $500 billion over six years. Additionally, any such investment should be “made in America,” and AAM stands ready to work with Congress to ensure that ‘Buy America’ laws are strengthened and vigorously enforced in any such effort.
Read more about Buy America preferences for public investment in infrastructure repairs.Add a comment
- 1 of 821
- ››
