Washington, D.C.–(ENEWSPF)–April 1, 2014. Today, Kevin DeGood, Director of Infrastructure Policy at American Progress, issued the following reaction to the release of the House Republican budget:
The Ryan budget is once again riddled with roadblocks and speed bumps that curb the essential infrastructure programs that Americans need to support job growth, trade, and the efficiency of our transportation system. The budget blueprint released today would result in a loss of 186,000 heavy-construction and related jobs next year alone and cut highway and public transportation funding by $172 billion over the next 10 years. Make no mistake, Ryan’s budget will hurt families and businesses at a time when we have major infrastructure needs and workers ready to do the job.
Quick facts on transportation in America:
- There are 63,000 structurally deficient bridges.
- There is a $86 billion backlog of transit repair needs.
- The American Society of Civil Engineers gives U.S. infrastructure a grade of D+.
- Congestion costs the U.S. economy $120 billion annually.
- 5,000+ pedestrians and cyclists are killed each year.
- 27,000+ motorists or passengers are killed each year.
- The Amtrak Northeast Corridor has a maintenance backlog of $5.8 billion.
Source: americanprogress.org
