This Week in Critical Infrastructure we bring you news on public-private partnership efforts in Texas, a new executive order on cybersecurity, and the latest reports on efforts to increase investment in critical infrastructure across the United States. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all the speakers, presenters, panelists, and guests who attended the 2017 Frontiers in Resilience Symposium this week. We look forward to sharing a report on the proceedings in come weeks.
Trump’s Public-Private Infrastructure Vision Rejected in Texas
From Bloomberg, Mark Niquette discusses the latest developments surrounding transportation development plans in Texas. The state legislature has reject a bill authorizing a public-private partnership that would have included authorization for revenue generation through tolls. Similar projects are in the works in several states and may be subject to the same scrutiny that caused Texas to reject the plan.
Trump Signs Order Aimed at Upgrading Government Cyber Defenses
From Reuters, Dustin Volz reports on a new executive order addressing federal government cybersecurity as well as threats to critical infrastructure. The full text of the order can be found on the White House website here.
Saudis Reportedly Plan to Invest $40 Billion in US Infrastructure
From Tom DiChristopher at CNBC, a report on a rumored upcoming announcement that Saudi Arabia plans to invest $40 billion in US infrastructure. Sources indicate that the full announcement could come during President Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia next week.
More than 500 infrastructure projects are pitched to Trump, who will favor private money and speed
From Marketplace at American Public Media, Tom Scheck provides a list of the over 500 infrastructure projects that have been submitted for consideration in upcoming federal infrastructure investment programs. Using data compiled by APM Reports, this source provides an overview of projects, as well as a state-by-state listing of proposals.
Prioritizing Investment in Water Infrastructure
For The Hill blog, Rep. John Katko (R-NY) makes a case for paying greater attention to water infrastructure as the administration considers upcoming investment targets.