California voters are placing a significant emphasis on environmental policy in the upcoming elections, with a recent poll indicating that it could sway their decision on who to support for president. A majority of voters are in favor of a $10 billion bond measure aimed at funding flood control and climate resiliency projects, highlighting the
Politics
When it comes to infrastructure costs in the United States, one of the contributing factors to the high expenditures is the lack of capacity within state transportation departments. A recent study conducted by economics experts from various universities sheds light on the relationship between state DOT capacity and project-level costs. According to Will Nober, an
The discussion surrounding pension investments in funds that prioritize environment, social, and governance (ESG) factors has been a topic of debate among state treasurers nationwide. While some argue that ESG strategies can help determine a company’s sustainability over the long term, others believe that it may introduce financial risks that need to be carefully considered.
Repairing aging bridges is a critical aspect of infrastructure maintenance in the United States. More than a dozen aging bridges across 16 states are set to undergo repairs using $5 billion in federal grants. These bridges play a crucial role in connecting various regions and are essential for the overall economy of the country. Transportation
The Chief Executive Officer of BlackRock, Larry Fink, recently highlighted the major opportunities in private infrastructure investment. He emphasized the growing demand for capital and infrastructure, particularly in financing data centers for artificial intelligence and the energy transition. Fink mentioned that private capital will play a crucial role in meeting these infrastructure needs, either independently
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has solidified his commitment to completing his four-year term as the top official within the Fed Board of Governors, scheduled to end in May 2026. Despite speculation surrounding potential changes after this term, Powell affirmed his dedication to fulfilling his current responsibilities. This decision comes as Washington navigates the complexities
After the recent reversal of the Chevron doctrine by the U.S. Supreme Court, House Republican leaders have initiated a review of the environmental, social, and governance agency regulations put forth by the Biden administration. In letters addressed to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan, House
The Biden administration recently announced a significant change in the standards for public infrastructure built with federal emergency funds in response to the escalating climate risk. This new standard, which has been years in the making, mandates that buildings and other infrastructure constructed with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding must now be elevated higher
The shortage of Federal Highway Administration emergency relief funds has brought up a significant debate surrounding the eventual replacement of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The current funding shortfall of over $3.5 billion has left many eligible projects in limbo, with a backlog of projects in 38 states and territories stemming from more
Recently, Mayor Mike Johnston of Denver proposed a plan for a sales tax hike to fund affordable housing in the city. This proposal is aimed at increasing the sales tax by 0.5% in order to generate approximately $100 million annually. This initiative comes shortly after the city council’s approval to place a 0.34% sales tax