Ep 5. Our Nation's Infrastructure At Risk
- May 5, 2016
Our nation’s infrastructure is at risk in the latest episode of To the Contrary. As the country continues to grapple with aging roads, bridges, and water systems, the panel examines the impact on working families, our economy, and our environment.
Host Bonnie Erbé is joined by a panel of leading female experts on the topic, including Debra Knopman, Senior Fellow at the Rand Corporation, Katie Thomson, former Chief Counsel at the US Department of Transportation, Karla Walter, Director of the American Worker Project at the Center for American Progress, and Anne-Patricia Wright, Director of the University Transportation Research Center at CUNY.
The discussion delves into the root causes of infrastructure decay, including lack of funding, political gridlock, and outdated approaches to infrastructure planning. The panelists debate the role of government, corporations, and individuals in securing the future of our nation’s infrastructure.
They also discuss the disproportionate impact of infrastructure failure on marginalized communities, including low-income families, people of color, and rural residents. The panelists explore ways in which policy changes and community-based initiatives can help address these disparities and ensure that all Americans have access to safe and reliable infrastructure.
The episode also includes interviews with experts and individuals impacted by infrastructure issues, offering personal perspectives on the importance of addressing this critical issue. From a young mother struggling to access clean drinking water in Flint, Michigan, to a transportation worker dealing with hazardous working conditions, the stories highlight the urgent need for action.
Through thoughtful analysis and heartfelt stories, To the Contrary’s panelists offer a comprehensive examination of the current state of our nation’s infrastructure and the challenges and opportunities for progress. Viewers will come away with a deeper understanding of this complex issue and a renewed sense of urgency to address it.
