3 articles
Infrastructure allocation predicts industrial geography only when capital is concentrated, project-specific, and backed by durable demand. Grid capacity has become the primary rationing variable.
GAO data shows 76% of IIJA funds obligated but only 54% disbursed. The binding constraint is institutional throughput: engineering, permitting, environmental review, and public-sector delivery capacity.
The U.S. faces a $630B+ wastewater infrastructure funding gap over 20 years. With IIJA supplemental funds expiring September 30, 2026, utilities are front-loading municipal bond issuance to finance consent decree mandates and nutrient-removal upgrades.