Building America’s Future South Carolina Chapter Releases Report on the Need for Repairs to the State’s Roads, Bridges, and Ports
January 23, 2012
Smart infrastructure plan is necessary to meet the demands of the 21st century and boost the economy
COLUMBIA, SC – January 20, 2012 – As the nation’s eyes turn to South Carolina and the Republican presidential race, Building America’s Future South Carolina Chapter (BAF-SC) is hoping to draw attention to the most important mission we face in the 21st century: rebuilding America’s economic foundation.
BAF-SC believes the key to catapulting America back into the economic forefront is founded in the implementation of a robust national infrastructure strategy for the next decade and beyond. This week, BAF-SC issued a report entitled, “Falling Apart, Falling Behind – South Carolina” outlining the coalition’s prescription for a better tomorrow.
There should be no uncertainty surrounding critical projects like the dredging of Charleston harbor. Putting in place a plan that expedites such infrastructure projects – a cost-effective, safe plan – is paramount in growing South Carolina’s economy, said John Hassell, President of the Maritime Association of SC and BAF Steering Committee Member. “If we want to attract and retain manufacturers like BMW, Michelin, and GE, we must be aware of, and responsive to, their transportation needs. A better economic future absolutely depends on the quality of the planning we do today,” he added.
“With corporations such as BMW, Michelin, and General Electric depending on shipping and exporting their goods manufactured here in the Palmetto State across our roads and bridges and through our port, it is necessary we do what we can to promote a better future for our state.”
BAF-SC is calling for a plan that promotes reforms and accountability, focuses investments on economic returns, and provides for a national plan with local flexibility. With 28 percent of the state’s roads in poor or mediocre condition and one-fourth of the state’s bridges in dire need of repair, the group says the time to act is now.
To read the report, please visit http://www.bafuture.org/sites/default/files/BuildingAmericasFutureSouthCarolinaReport.pdf. For more information about the Building America’s Future South Carolina Chapter, please visit www.bafuture.org/SC.
