Civil engineer society's infrastructure grades: D for nation, C-plus for rail

The state of the nation's infrastructure earns only a D+ grade from the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) in its latest "Report Card for America's Infrastructure" versus the D grade assigned in 2009, the last time the association issued a report card.

For the first time, the report — which grades infrastructure using an A-to-F report card format — includes information pertaining to all 50 states. An advisory council comprising civil engineers appointed by ASCE assigns the grades according to eight criteria: capacity, condition, funding, future need, operation and maintenance, public safety, resilience and innovation.

Although the cumulative grade rose slightly, the nation has a total infrastructure investment need of $3.6 trillion by 2020, leaving a funding shortfall of $1.6 trillion based on current funding levels, said ASCE officials in a press release. ASCE represents the interests of more than 140,000 civil engineers worldwide.

"A D+ is simply unacceptable for anyone serious about strengthening our nation's economy; however, the 2013 Report Card shows that this problem can be solved," said ASCE President Gregory DiLoreto. "If we want to create jobs, increase trade and assure the safety of our children, then infrastructure investment is the answer."

The 2013 grades by sector range from a high of B- for solid waste infrastructure to a low of D- for inland waterways and levees. Ports earned a C grade.

Six sectors (solid waste, drinking water, wastewater, roads, bridges and rail) garnered incrementally higher grades since the last assessment in 2009, with rail registering the largest improvement from a C- to C+. Private investment for efficiency and connectivity helped improve the nation's railways, ports and energy grid, ASCE officials said, adding that Amtrak's record-high ridership helped boost rail's overall grade.

Source: Progressive Railroading