Maine received a C average on the American Society of Civil Engineers’ infrastructure report card. The state is unique with its significant number of bridges (2,518) and miles of scenic coastal roads. Our bridges and roads are highly vulnerable to storms, yet they are critically important for tourism and commerce. Many of the assets we rely on daily require significant upgrades. Also, broader infrastructure planning should include climate resilience measures.

Maine is a leader with proactive and effective resilience efforts, including innovative bridge designs like the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, and scores of culvert replacements that improve both resilience and sensitive ecological habitats. The state’s four-year climate plan, Maine Won’t Wait, showcases Maine’s dedication to safeguarding its coastal commerce, tourism and natural environment.

Flooding in Maine is a real issue. Our port and harbor infrastructure and coastal roads must be resilient to rising sea levels and increased storm activity and nimble enough to accommodate change and commerce. Maine should invest in rebuilding old wharfs and piers to protect our communities and preserve the state’s working waterfronts, fisheries and sea-faring heritage.

While it has no fossil energy resources, Maine has access to substantial and diverse renewable energy resources through its forests (biofuel, compost), rivers (hydropower and dams), inland and offshore winds (wind farms), ocean currents (tidal power) and sun (solar power). The University of Maine has been at the forefront of wind turbine research with its VolturnUS, exploring the use of wind power to generate electricity. Assessment of hydrogen technologies for power should be included in Maine’s infrastructure planning.  Older power plants, built before the 1990s, are reaching the end of their useful life and will need upgrades or replacement.

Using this diverse mix of energy options is crucial for energy security and resilience, especially as demand increases due to advancements in AI and increased electrical energy usage for heating/cooling our businesses and homes and electric vehicles. With planning and foresight, the state can cost-effectively solve both near-term energy demand challenges and become a leader in the longer-term energy transition.

Maine’s water infrastructure is critical for public health, not to mention environmental sustainability and economic growth. Aging pipes and treatment facilities require significant upgrades to ensure efficient water distribution and prevent contamination. Water treatment systems should be tested and modernized to address contaminants such as PFAS, a prominent issue in Maine. Cross-sector asset management planning can enhance the resilience and efficiency of our water systems, integrating stormwater management with roadway planning to address severe weather events.

A steady stream of federal investment and state funding through bonds, public-private partnerships and grants is paramount. It will take a massive amount of investment to get that C grade turned into an A grade, yet it is incumbent upon all of us to support funding for our own well-being, work opportunities for family and friends and future economic development as population increases in our state.

When you turn on the tap, flip your light switch, surf the internet, drive over a bridge, fly out of an airport or visit your bank or school, remember how critical infrastructure is, in all its forms, to our daily existence. Let’s work together to keep it top of mind and create a brighter future for all Mainers.