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

“City councils, as they receive stimulus money, must look closely on how they are investing those funds, because they don’t have nearly enough to cover the extent of projects and needs that they have,” John Arroyo, executive director of the Northwest region of the Portland Cement Association said. “For example, the Puget Sound Regional Council identified more than $4 billion in needs for the metropolitan Seattle area, but they only will receive about $75 million.”

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 is going to be critical to invest these dollars as wisely and be forward looking, really think about sustainability. In Spokane, for instance, there are more than 30 new concrete intersections, which will last for years. This is a trend that can really help the state especially at the local level.”

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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