Critical Infrastructure
We all know that as our nation’s towns and cities have grown and evolved, our infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. But it goes deeper than that. America’s critical infrastructure was built decades ago for a different era. The failure or destruction of any of our nation’s critical infrastructure sectors could have crippling effects on our national security, economy, public health, and safety, with far-reaching consequences.
The United States has 16 critical infrastructure sectors whose assets, systems, and networks – whether physical or digital – are deemed essential to our nation's security and stability. A recent report published by the Union of Concerned Scientists found 900 critical infrastructure sites along U.S. coastlines at risk of high-tide flooding at least twice a year. That figure is said to have the potential to increase to 1,600 by 2050, affecting more than 3 million American residents, largely in disadvantaged communities. In addition to schools and hospitals, the analysis includes power plants, wastewater facilities, government buildings, and fire stations, along with brownfield sites that could release pollutants if flooded.
This data furthers the findings of a report published earlier this year by RAND. The RAND report analyzed threats to U.S. critical infrastructure, emphasizing the risks posed by adversarial attacks, aging systems, and extreme weather, highlighting the cascading effects of disruptions and challenges in coordination due to sectoral silos.
While critical infrastructure varies across communities, there is one commonality – the impact on the essential elements of our daily life. Our charge is clear: to ensure America’s economic competitiveness and the safety and resilience of our communities in the face of natural disasters, we must call on our elected officials to prioritize policies that will revitalize and invest in America's critical infrastructure. Not convinced? Keep reading.
Report finds 900 critical infrastructure sites along U.S. coastlines at risk of high-tide flooding at least twice a year
Florida, Louisiana and New Jersey lead the list of states with critical infrastructure in the path of rising seas.
Study published by RAND highlights major threats to our critical infrastructure
Study further highlights the cascading impacts across infrastructure sectors and geographic boundaries, predicting that a singular event can have outsized effects.
U.S. drinking water is among the world’s safest and most reliable
How frequent water main breaks across the country is putting our critical water systems at risk.
Cities around the world are doubling down on mass transportation systems and subways
Why is it so hard for the U.S. to build quality transit?
Water system upgrades could require more than $1T over the next 20 years
Two recent reports explore how much investment will be required over the next 20 years to fix, maintain, and improve the country’s water infrastructure.
America’s rural transportation system is facing a $198 billion funding backlog for needed repairs and improvements
A report that highlights how critical infrastructure investment is for the health of our rural communities.
Coming Up
Imagine A Day Without Water: What will your drop in the bucket be?
On October 17, our Steering Committee partners will commemorate the 10th anniversary of Imagine a Day Without Water, a national movement highlighting the true value of water in our lives. Join us by taking a moment to consider what your day might look like without a working bathroom or access to clean drinking water. Then visit imagineadaywithoutwater.org to find out how you can add your drop to the bucket by tagging @TheValueOfWater and #ImagineADayWithoutWater on social media.
STAY UP TO DATE!
UFI's events calendar is updated weekly with virtual and in-person events that are happening all across the country, spanning various infrastructure sectors. There's something for everyone to explore and benefit from, so check back often!
Be an advocate for the value of investments in our nation's infrastructure by amplifying UFI with your network! Follow us on X and Linkedin for infrastructure-related news, updates and information from our esteemed Steering Committee and valued Partnership Network. Got a story we should know about? Help us amplify it, by tagging us: @United4infra or #UnitedForInfrastructure.
And in case you forgot why we’re here in the first place, Infrastructure Week 2025 is happening from May 12 - 16! Please reach out to us if you have ideas for new ways to get involved!