Infrastructure productivity and the US economy: Prospects for the 21st century

This chapter analyzes the state of United States (US) infrastructure, as it relates to productivity within the framework of the national economy and discusses the prospects for US infrastructure growth with a long-term perspective. A well-designed infrastructure investment program will increase economic productivity in the long run by making it easier for businesses to ship products, keeping employees healthier with higher quality of leisure time, and reducing driving time to work for employees. Investment in infrastructure is critical for the US economy since conditions of roads, bridges, ports, airports, water treatment plants, and other physical assets greatly influence the ability of a country to grow and function. Maintenance and improvements in every sector of infrastructure will pay off by spurring economic growth through improved productivity and creation of additional jobs, higher incomes, and improved living standards. Many new infrastructure projects are being developed for different sectors and regions.