LANSING, Mich.--As the nation struggles to deal with the largest economic crisis in decades, Congress is developing an economic stimulus bill that could contain significant dollars for infrastructure improvements.   In Michigan, where the economy is particularly grim, job creation is an immediate priority that an infrastructure bill can address.

“Infrastructure funding means immediate and long-term economic relief,” Ray McVeigh, executive director of the Great Lakes region of the Portland Cement Association said. “Research shows that for every 10 construction jobs created by a project, the community gains 17 additional jobs that stay in the region even after a project is completed.”

States and counties can use infrastructure dollars to develop and repair highways, city roads, bridges, and other major public projects.  In addition to creating construction jobs, improved throughways attract industries that rely on a high-quality highway network for the transport of goods and services. 

McVeigh cautions, however, that just building the roads is not enough.  Improvements must meet current and future economic priorities. 

“For example, concrete roads last longer and need less maintenance.  A road constructed with asphalt lasts 5-9 years before needing resurfacing.  The same road paved with concrete can go with minimal maintenance for 30 years—more than three times as long.  This saves communities money in repair and tax dollars for every one.”

About PCA
Based in Skokie, Ill., the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States and Canada. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs. More information on PCA programs is available at www.cement.org.

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