ABSTRACT
Basic local services, referred to as public infrastructure services in North America, are often described as the ‘backbone’ of the economic systems and quality of life in Canada and the United States (U.S.). While access to basic public services is not a key challenge in the region, after decades of under-investment, both countries are confronted by significant ‘infrastructure deficits’ – backlogs of delayed repairs and construction needed to sustain and improve current infrastructure, and of strategic investments in additional infrastructure to support future growth. These infrastructure deficits are sometimes visible to the general public in the form of crumbling roads and crowded buses, subways, and roads, but also take the less visible form of decaying drinking water and sanitation systems, or the structural deterioration of bridges. Without significant reinvestment in public infrastructure systems, local leaders in the region warn that it will become increasingly difficult to sustain economic growth and quality of life.
