Engineering Council launches infrastructure advancement initiative
June 28, 2022
ACEC-SC guides lawmakers on critical state infrastructure projects, funding allocation
Through the launch of its Infrastructure Works (IW) initiative, the American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina (ACEC-SC) will serve as an advisor to lawmakers regarding the state’s most pressing infrastructure projects, helping politicians secure state funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
The passing of the IIJA and ARPA makes a South Carolina infrastructure boom possible, an essential development given our state received a D+ infrastructure rating in 2021 due to significant deterioration. Comprised of local and national engineering firms, ACEC-SC’s board is uniquely equipped to provide guidance on the funding applications that would help best improve, upgrade and develop infrastructure across the state, from water to broadband to surface transportation.
ACEC-SC Board President, Dr. Jeff Mulliken, P.E., emphasized the positive impact IIJA and ARPA can have on all South Carolinians.
“If South Carolina wants to continue to place itself as a competitive place to live and do business, then prioritizing funding from both bills is key to supporting ongoing growth,” Mulliken said. “We believe it is important to provide our leadership and insight to lawmakers as we have ongoing discussions on infrastructure in South Carolina and the role engineering will play in that.”
IIJA funding could grow the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) annual budget from $733 million to $1 billion. ACEC-SC has helped SCDOT advocate for $200 million annually, even receiving assurances that at least $100 million would be secured, though Governor Henry McMaster has yet to sign off on the state budget.
ACEC-SC’s Political Action Committee (PAC) already facilitated action at the State House last summer through its creation of the Water Coalition. Executive Director of ACEC-SC, Adam Jones, says the council is ready to move the needle on key issues through its IW initiative in order to build a better South Carolina.
“We look forward to providing expert insight to lawmakers that will help prioritize infrastructure investments that will most improve the quality of life for South Carolinians and provide the best opportunity for economic growth,” Jones said.
About American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina
American Council of Engineering Companies of South Carolina (ACEC-SC) is a professional engineering organization that serves as the voice of all firms across the state. The organization’s mission is to advocate, advance and protect the business interests of its members and the standards of the profession in South Carolina.
