A recent spate of sinkholes due to failing infrastructure in the U.S. points to neglected maintenance.
From early December through April 2017, 39 significant sinkholes related to failing infrastructure struck across the country. One person was killed and four were injured in the incidents. In addition, extensive evacuations and disruption of utilities resulted.
In December, a football-field-sized hole suddenly swallowed parts of three houses and a section of road in a Detroit suburb. Typical causes of these collapses are crumbling water, drain, and sewer pipes. Cities beset by budget problems are at particular risk.
A recent report by the American Society of Civil Engineers said that public spending is running far short of what's needed to replace water and wastewater systems. ASCE said the funding gap was estimated at $105 billion today, up from $55 billion in 2010.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2020
France to mandate all new public buildings be 50% timber or other natural materials
Measure would go into effect by 2022.
Codes and Standards | Mar 4, 2020
American Concrete Institute and Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute expand partnership
Will collaborate on new code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2020
Wallcoverings industry releases product scorecards concerning sustainability
Tool adds more transparency to certification.
Codes and Standards | Feb 28, 2020
Bay Area communities struggle with what to do about rising sea level
Policies include sea walls, levies, and relocation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 27, 2020
Cell phones present a safety hazard at job sites
Use of ear buds, headphones banned by some contractors.
Codes and Standards | Feb 26, 2020
American Concrete Institute releases 2020 codes, specifications, and practices
ACI Collection features guidance on structural concrete construction and rehabilitation.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2020
New ISO standard for optimizing building use and reusing and recycling components released
Aim is to realize full potential value of a building throughout its life cycle.
Codes and Standards | Feb 21, 2020
Architects push back on proposed uniform design mandate for federal architecture
AIA speaks out against measure.
Codes and Standards | Feb 20, 2020
City-owned buildings to go carbon-free in Los Angeles
Mayor commits to goal for new and extensively renovated structures.
Codes and Standards | Feb 19, 2020
Public is willing to volunteer to maintain green infrastructure
Perceived benefits make residents willing to help public works departments.
