I have been reading about the drinking water system problems in this country. It seems that most city water systems are old and decrepit. Also, it would take an estimated $380 billion to fix them.
Why don’t we put the stimulus money to work correcting this problem? This would take care of a vital system and create instant jobs all over the country.
David Napoli
Kansas City
TinaMcG
First of all, there isn't a "Nation's water delivery system". There is a great big bunch of local systems. The age and state of repair of these systems vary but, in general, the state of repair of the various systems is very good. There is greater trouble with the quality and quantity of the water sources. There are doubtless many system improvements that could be made, and any that could be done this year would be good "stimulus". There are thousands of people across the Country who are dedicated to keeping these systems in top shape. My remarks were somewhat tongue in cheek. Mr. Reich made a classic Freudian slip.
Posted by: Engineer | February 16, 2009 at 10:19 PM
"But projects such as repairing water systems give jobs and work to skilled white construction workers"
Well okay then. Let's just let the nation's water delivery system go to hell.
Posted by: TinaMcG | February 16, 2009 at 09:22 PM
TinaMcG
But projects such as repairing water systems give jobs and work to skilled white construction workers. Robert Reich has assured us that this is not the objective of the stimulus. As to the difference between jobs and work, Jobs were provided under the PWA. Work was provided under WPA. Under WPA essentially you showed up and they paid you. Neither was effective as a stimulus..
Posted by: Engineer | February 16, 2009 at 04:51 PM
Naaaah. Lets spend more money we dont have raiding massage parlors and incarcurating people without trial or bond.
Posted by: Stifled Freedom | February 16, 2009 at 03:39 PM
According to RNC Chariman Michael Steele, that would create 'work' -- not jobs. The type of project you suggest, Mr. Napoli, is the type of thing Obama has been promoting, and for some reason that defies logic, the Republicans don't understand the short- and longterm benefits of such spending.
Write your congressional reps.
Posted by: TinaMcG | February 16, 2009 at 08:40 AM