SALEM, Ore.—As states schedule projects using money from the federal stimulus bill, construction experts say it will be critical for the state of Oregon to spend those funds wisely.

“The federal stimulus dollars that are on their way to Oregon need to be invested looking towards the future,” John Arroyo, executive director of the Northwest region of the Portland Cement Association said. “For example, ODOT did the original Interstate in concrete and it has served the public very, very well.  We need those kinds of investments.”

Arroyo 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.

“It has been extremely difficult for municipalities to get maintenance money for pavements that have to be taken care every few years. It is critical for communities around the state to duplicate the sustainable streets that places like Wilsonville and Springfield and Eugene have recently constructed.”

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 Northwest region of the Portland Cement Association is based in Gig Harbor, Wash., and conducts market development, education and public affairs programs in the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana.

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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