WORKING GROUPS
INFRASTRUCTURE GROWTH:
LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGICAL AND REGIONAL ASSETS
Old, failing, and well behind 21st-century standards, American infrastructure is due for an upgrade. Cost projections for repair and maintenance of transportation, waste, electric, and other infrastructure in the U.S. exceed $2 trillion over the next five years. There is, however, good news: Spending on infrastructure will create jobs and help forge a more competitive American economy.
This Working Group will focus on leveraging technology and data, regional collaboration, and emerging funding opportunities to get infrastructure-development projects off the ground. By addressing these components, and by considering the associated regulatory hurdles, participants will develop ideas for making their efforts – whether in transportation networks, civic infrastructure, Smart Grid, or other areas – bankable.
SUBTOPICS
PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE
America can save money and lives, while putting thousands of people to work by repairing its physical infrastructure, including roads, levees, and bridges.
ELECTRIC VEHICLES
With numerous models being released, one thing is clear: Electric vehicles (EVs) are entering the mainstream marketplace. Building a robust and accessible network of EV charging stations will spur consumer demand and lay the foundation for a cleaner transportation future.
TRANSPORTATION NETWORKS
Investments in intercity transit infrastructure, commuter routes, and public transportation can lower costs, reduce road congestion and emissions, and alleviate public-health concerns.
WATER AND WASTE MANAGEMENT
Freshwater delivery, wastewater treatment, gray water usage, waste-to-energy technology: Throughout the water and waste systems there are a number of opportunities for improvement. Investments here show promising returns, and will be a boon to both the environment and the economy.
TRANSMISSION LINES
Implementing the Smart Grid and extending broadband Internet access across the country is crucial to America’s long-term competitiveness.