Wisconsin is getting a grade of "C" for efforts to maintain and improve its infrastructure. The report card from the American Society of Civil Engineers ranked Wisconsin's infrastructure in 11 categories, ranging from roads to drinking water. Mark Mathu, president of the state chapter of the ASCE, says the average grade slipped from a C+ in the last report card, which was released in 2003.
Of the areas studied, grades in only three improved since 2003. Six categories saw declines, in categories such as bridges, wastewater treatment, and road management. Mathu says the lower grades are the result of increased needs in those areas and funding that isn't keeping up.
Study coordinator John Goetter says funding shortfalls aren't the only reason why grades dropped. He says the solution will require community planning, new technology, and government cooperation with the private sector to make real changes. The report card is intended to raise awareness of infrastructure needs.