Infrastructure deficit threatens booming U.S. economy, U.S. Chamber CEO warns

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Infrastructure deficit threatens booming U.S. economy, U.S. Chamber CEO warns

The United States needs a major upgrade to its infrastructure—roads, bridges, ports, electrical grids and broadband--to keep up with its newly booming economy.

By John D. Schulz · January 11, 2018
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The United States needs a major upgrade to its infrastructure—roads, bridges, ports, electrical grids and broadband--to keep up with its newly booming economy.

“We cannot build a 21st century economy on 20th century infrastructure—if it’s that good,” U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue said. “This year can and must be the year of major infrastructure investment. We have the political will, the bipartisan support—and we certainly have the need. Now it’s time for action.”

Donohue called for a “forward-looking infrastructure” program, adding: “We must pay our way our way into the future. We need to rebuild our roads and bridges for changes to come, including driverless cars.”

But how do we pay for it? That’s a problem that has dogged the debate for ages. The Chamber has been pushing for what it calls “modest increases” in the fuel tax—18.4 cents on gasoline, 24.4 cents on diesel, unchanged since 1993—to help pay a modernization program.

The Chamber was scheduled to propose what Donohue called “very constructive ideas and proposals” at an infrastructure summit on Jan. 18.

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