Every $1 Billion Spent on Rebuilding Infrastructure Creates 42,000 Jobs

[Omaha Steve]

http://blog.aflcio.org/2008/04/29/every-1-billion-spent-on-rebuilding-infrastructure-creates-42000-jobs/

by James Parks, Apr 29, 2008

Too often, the only time lawmakers think seriously about rebuilding our nation’s aging and crumbling infrastructure is after a disaster like the collapse of a bridge in Minneapolis or the destruction of New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. Then a few months later, the issue is pushed back to make way for less-expensive priorities.



But the ability of the United States to compete in the global economy and continue its growth depends on our willingness to improve our roads, bridges, waterways, transit systems and the electrical grid, says Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell (D).

The price tag to rebuild is high, but we can afford it, Rendell told participants at a symposium today on “Investing in U.S. Infrastructure.” Sponsored by the Agenda for Shared Prosperity, the symposium brought together economists, policymakers and others to discuss ideas for moving America forward after 2008. Rendell told the meeting:

We always say we can’t afford to rebuild the infrastructure. But we can find the money for what we want to do. If we can afford the war in Iraq, we can fix our infrastructure.

The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates it will cost $1.6 trillion over five years to bring roads, rails, bridges, waterways, transit systems and other infrastructure components into “good condition.” Rendell points out that debt service on that amount is about what we spend in Iraq each year.

John Irons, research director for the Economic Policy Institute, which sponsors Agenda for Shared Prosperity events, told the symposium that infrastructure investments would provide short-term economic stimulus and build the foundation for long-term economic growth by creating new jobs and spurring investments.

FULL story at link.

[ThoughtCriminal]

1. Meanshile, McCain proposes a gas-tax cut

That will take $10 billion away from highway funds and save most drivers less than $30 even by the most optimistic estimates. If his proposal also puts a few thousand people out of work - well for Republicans, that's a bonus.

[Nay]

2. God bless the AFLCIO, may their tribe increase, but they are missing

the whole point of the ascent of the Republicans.

Pubs are not, and never have been, interested in 1) rebuiding the country, 2) increasing the number of good jobs, 3)providing for the long-term growth of the country, or 4) improving the situation of the citizens.

THEY ARE PIRATES, NOTHING ELSE. What do pirates do? They rape and pillage, and leave with all the spoils. They don't care what happens to their victims, their victims' property or country, or their victims' kids.