PORTLAND, Ore.--As the nation struggles to deal with the largest economic crisis in decades, Congress is developing an economic stimulus bill that could contain significant dollars for infrastructure improvements.  Closer to home in Oregon, the state legislature is poised to consider a transportation-spending package at the first of the year. 

“Infrastructure funding means immediate and long-term economic relief,” John Arroyo,, executive director of the Northwest Region of the Portland Cement Association said. “Research shows that for every 10 construction jobs created by a project, the community gains 17 additional jobs that stay in the region even after a project is completed.”

Additionally, improvements in Oregon’s throughways will keep the state competitive by attracting industries that rely on a high-quality highway network for the transport of goods and services. 

Just building the roads, however, will not ensure the future economic stability of the state.  Arroyo cautions improvements must be done with the highest quality materials that meet current and future economic priorities. 

“For example, concrete roads last longer and need less maintenance.  A road constructed with asphalt lasts 5-9 years before needing resurfacing.  The same road paved with concrete can go with minimal maintenance for 30 years—more than three times as long.  Asphalt roads are maintenance intensive.  Concrete roads, however, avoids continual drain on the public bank account and saves tax dollars for every one.”

About PCA
Based in Skokie, Ill., the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States and Canada. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs. More information on PCA programs is available at www.cement.org.

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