T he word “infrastructure” has to be one of the most unfortunate of the English language. While it is intended to represent America’s most important public assets, it does not convey any real meaning of its importance. “Infrastructure” comprises our bridges, roads, water lines, sewers, dams, air traffic control system and electrical grid. It is vital to our economy and to our physical security, but it is neglected by our political leaders.

The American Society of Civil Engineers, which audits the state of our national infrastructure, reported that it would take $1,600bn to bring it up to an acceptable standard over a five-year period, and gave it an overall grade of C-minus. The shortfall increased by $300bn in the past three years.