America’s infrastructure is entering a critical turning point. Roads, bridges, water systems and energy networks across the country are aging after decades of underinvestment. Extreme weather, growing populations and rising demand are making the situation worse. According to Nathan Creech, President of CRH Americas, rebuilding is not enough — the U.S. must build smarter, stronger and more efficient systems for the future.
Decades of Neglect
Much of America’s infrastructure is in poor condition:
- 38% of major roads are rated poor or mediocre.
- Over 42,000 bridges need significant repairs.
- The country loses 2 trillion gallons of treated water every year, costing $6.4 billion.
- The U.S. energy grid faces increasing blackout risks over the next five years.
- The nation must install as much fiber in the next 5 years as it has in its entire history.
The ASCE 2025 Report Card shows a $3.7 trillion investment gap, and many systems still operate in isolated silos without coordination.
Onshoring Creates New Urgency
A major shift is underway: the onshoring movement, which brings manufacturing back to the United States. This trend is driven by:
- unstable overseas supply chains
- desire for high-quality domestic jobs
- growing need for local production
But America’s current infrastructure cannot support large-scale re-industrialization. As new warehouses, data centers and battery plants rise, the surrounding infrastructure is falling behind.
To support the onshoring wave, the U.S. must upgrade:
- roads, bridges, airports, railways and ports
- energy grids and water systems
- high-speed broadband networks for smart factories and rural communities
This infrastructure will form the backbone of America’s new industrial economy.
Building Smart Infrastructure
Nathan Creech stresses that the question is not how fast we build — but how wisely we build. Smart infrastructure must be integrated, adaptive and resilient, meeting both immediate construction needs and long-term performance goals.
Key priorities include:
1. Resource Efficiency
Using better materials can extend the life of highways and bridges, reduce repairs and lower total costs. Improved concrete mixes and sensor-based construction can cut waste and improve performance.
2. Durable Materials
Innovative materials reduce waste, last longer and improve road performance — even increasing vehicle fuel efficiency.
3. Greater Connectivity
Modern energy grids need built-in backups and the ability to blend fossil fuels, nuclear and renewables.
Broadband expansion must reach the “last mile”, connecting rural areas, smart factories and remote workers.
4. Water Security
Water systems must handle stormwater, wastewater and drinking water—all with greater capacity in less space. Leak-detecting sensors can prevent failures before they occur.
A Future Built on Reinvention
America’s infrastructure future will be shaped by innovation, collaboration and long-term planning. The onshoring movement presents a historic chance to rebuild the systems that power the nation.
By investing in smarter, stronger and more connected infrastructure, the U.S. can unlock the full potential of onshoring and strengthen its economic future.
