TOPEKA, Kan.—As states schedule projects using money from the federal stimulus bill, construction experts say infrastructure projects have a history of bringing economic benefits to the people of Kansas.

“We do know that one of the best ways to get people back to work is through road and bridge construction.  Kansas’s last ten-year transportation program created more than 114,000 full time jobs,” Michael Young, executive director of the South Central Cement Promotion Association, a division of the Portland Cement Association said. “Every 10 construction jobs created by a stimulus project results in 17 additional jobs that will stay in the region.”

Young stressed the state is at a unique point in time, and the way the federal dollars are spent now will have an impact on future projects.  By building roads, bridges and other infrastructure projects with the highest quality materials, state leaders can actually save money in the future.

“We need to ensure we construct durable, long lasting projects.  The Kansas approach of building substantial projects that leads to future economic development growth should be a model for all to follow.”

Concrete roads also last longer and need less maintenance.  A road constructed with concrete can go with minimal maintenance for 30 years—more than three times as long other construction methods.  By not requiring continual maintenance, the use of concrete roads avoids repetitive drains on the public bank account and saves tax dollars.

About PCA
The South Central Cement Promotion Association is based in Tulsa, Okla., and conducts market development, education and public affairs programs in the states of Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, and Oklahoma.

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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