Fragile Foundations: A Report on America's Public Works

Abstract

The quality of a nation's infrastructure is a critical index of its economic vitality. Reli­able transportation. clean water. and safe disposal of wastes are basic elements of civilized society and a productive economy. Their absence or failure introduces an intolerable dimen­sion of risk and hardship to every­day life. and a major obstacle to growth and competitiveness. The Erie Canal: the transcontinental rail­roads: the great dams and water sys­tems of the west: the airports. seaports. and transit systems that serve our cities: our network of modern highways and soaring bridges ­all these are part of this country's great public works inheritance from the genera­tions of Americans who built before us. These massive and sometimes daring achievements supported the growth of the greatest economic power the world has ever known. They have been the envy of other countries and the model for our competi­tors. Now that inheritance is in danger. After two years of study. the National Coun­cil on Public Works Improvement (the Council) has found convincing evidence that the quality of America's infrastructure is barely adequate to fulfill current require­ments, and insufficient to meet the demands of future economic growth and development. And unless we dramatically enhance the capacity and performance of the nation's public works. our own generation will for­feit its place in the American tradition of commitment to the future. Without such an effort. our legacy will be modest at best. At worst. we will default on our obligation to the future. and succeeding generations will have to compensate for our failures.