This month we reveal the results of the Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure survey, “State of the States.” Associate Editor Solomon Lieberman shares the detailed findings, which are based on the responses from about 150 seasoned department of transportation (DOT) professionals, on pages 8 to 10.

The responses confirm an ugly picture for our nation, similar to others we’ve seen. Eighty-one percent think that the infrastructure conditions in the United States are getting worse. Only 8 percent believe things are actually getting better. The assessment isn’t quite as bad on the state-level specific to transportation: Only 70 percent believe transportation infrastructure conditions in their state are getting worse; 17 percent believe their state’s conditions are staying the same; and 13 percent of respondents are encouraged that there’s been improvement.

What to do? As Paul Yarossi, president of HNTB Holdings Ltd, and first vice chairman of the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA), said to me recently, “There is no silver bullet. We need to use all means available to influence, fund, and execute a new transportation vision.” He explained the issue isn’t user fee versus gas tax, or public-private partnerships versus design build; it’s that we need the government to allow innovation in funding, project delivery, technology, and engineering, and set policy that allows the best options for each individual project to be explored. “We must deliver a safer and more efficient transportation system.” he said. “Our economy, security, and safety depend on it.”

Noting positives, Yarossi spoke of the good works that organizations such as ARTBA, American Council of Engineering Companies, and the Chamber of Commerce are doing to propel the transportation issue to the forefront of politicians’ minds and the business community at large. Still, there is more to do, and I for one will take the time to write to my elected officials next week.

Dan McNichol relates in Signs (page 11) that other countries deliver safe, efficient, and even beautiful transportation systems to their citizens. Our great country can do the same, and some states are headed in the right direction. Our survey respondents noted the following six states as the best at managing their transportation needs: California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Utah, New York, and Missouri. And New York, California, and Ohio got recognition for pursuing green and sustainable projects. Cheers to these states, and keep up the great work.

Look to Rebuilding America’s Infrastructure and its dynamic website, which was redesigned in October, to keep up to date on the trends, technology, and model projects that will help our industry achieve the goal of improved transportation. Also we’ve recently launched a new online hub for DOT professionals; check out HubDOT.net to learn what’s happening at state and local levels to advance us toward this commonly shared goal.

Shanon Fauerbach, P.E.,

sfauerbach@stagnitomedia.com