As transportation and communications have developed, so has a more integrated world economy. The specialization of labor which made possible urban places now allows produce to be grown and goods manufactured in far-away countries and shipped around the world. The efficiency of infrastructure is more important than ever because it directly affects the ability of any city, region, or country to successfully produce and sell goods and services in an increasingly competitive world marketplace. Today the United States faces significant infrastructure challenges. Increasingly, aging infrastructure needs to be repaired, upgraded, replaced, or expanded.
Efforts are ongoing to improve intermodal transfer of both passengers and freight.
New technologies are being developed and deployed to extend infrastructure life through better materials, construction techniques, and maintenance procedures. The infrastructure needs of the sprawling suburbs have yet to be effectively addressed. Average auto occupancy has plummeted, traffic congestion has increased, and transit use has stagnated. With growing concerns about air pollution and energy consumption, many people are saying that new roadway construction is not the answer. Efforts are underway to improve the utilization of existing infrastructure though better management and communications, notably through advanced traveler information systems for auto and truck drivers.