The United States is spending only 2.4% of GDP on transportation and water infrastructure compared to an average of 4% in Europe and 9% in China. Much of the nation's water and sanitary sewer infrastructure is nearing the end of its useful life and will require billions of dollars of investment over the next 20 years. The dilemma for water and sewer utilities is how to raise revenues to meet the current and impending needs. Raising rates will require a considerable amount of political will. The City of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, developed an effective program for disseminating information to the city council, local businesses, and the public; and in the end, won approval for a $25 million infrastructure improvement plan. Learning Objectives: Communicate infrastructure funding needs in easily understandable terms. Attain community involvement by partnering with groups like the Rotary Club, veterans organizations, and business leaders to be advocates for the necessary rate increases.
Contributor/Source
Naeem Qureshi
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