Invest in Infrastructure and Rebuild Better

Broadcasting from Pulaski Park as part of a United for Infrastructure forum: Kevin Shafer the Executive Director of the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District discussed the flood management project there.

The project included community input into the planning co-facilitated by 16th Street Community Center [priority was a walking path across the whole part – beautiful bridge connect walkers and bikers to the water way], habitat restoration, and recreational development.

It was built and developed using MMSD’s commendable contracting and hiring standards and Mr. Shafer expanded the concept, commenting “equity with water is more than hiring people of color to work on the jobs.  It’s bringing a connection to our precious natural resource to all people of the city.”

The COVID-19 pandemic has tested our current infrastructure and forced us to evolve on a daily basis to meet the current climate. We've seen where we already excel, and weak spots that need a great deal of work. Historically, investment in our nation's infrastructure has provided a source of stability through the creation of family supporting jobs. Not only that, it's an industry that allows for greater ability to socially distance.

This is our chance. We cannot overlook this opportunity to meet the needs of the moment and emerge from this pandemic stronger than before. We know that as we move forward as a country we can work to incorporate all these ideas in the real and substantive plan for building back better.  #RebuildBetter