Aecom CEO Says U.S. Infrastructure Plan Is Long Overdue

The transcript discusses the current state of infrastructure funding in the U.S., highlighting a $1.5 trillion plan that relies heavily on state, local, and private investments. The conversation covers the challenges of regulatory burdens, the need for a gas tax increase, and the role of the federal government. It emphasizes the importance of bipartisan support and the potential economic benefits of improved infrastructure. The discussion also touches on the balance between tax cuts and infrastructure spending, suggesting that both can be achieved with strategic planning.

What are the three main pillars of the President's infrastructure plan?

• Highway infrastructure fund, private sector investment, regulatory reduction

• Tax reform, healthcare, education

• Military spending, foreign aid, social security

• Environmental protection, renewable energy, public transport

How much federal money is allocated in the infrastructure plan?

• $500 billion

• $200 billion

• $1 trillion

• $1.5 trillion

What is a major challenge in implementing infrastructure projects in the U.S.?

• Regulatory burdens and lengthy permitting processes

• High cost of materials

• Lack of skilled labor

• Insufficient technology

Which countries are mentioned as having more efficient permitting processes?

• Brazil and Mexico

• Australia and Japan

• China and India

• Germany and Canada

What is the expected outcome of the tax cuts according to the speaker?

• Reduction in private sector investment

• Growth in GDP and infrastructure funding

• Increase in unemployment

• Decrease in GDP

What is the status of the Highway Trust Fund?

• It has a surplus of funds

• It is only used for local projects

• It is expected to go bankrupt by 2020

• It is fully funded until 2030

What solution is suggested for the Highway Trust Fund's financial issues?

• Increasing the gas tax

• Cutting infrastructure projects

• Relying solely on federal funding

• Reducing state contributions