The Federal Highway Act of 1956 was a $25 billion public works project that changed America forever by providing the infrastructure for the massive growth in our economy.
Infrastructure, be it highways, bridges, water treatment facilities, or power grids, can be the correct place for Federal government spending. Government is qualified to take on infrastructure projects. On the other hand, providing the cash for your trade-in should have been a non-starter. Same with so much of the pork in the stimulus spending.
I want to switch gears on you for just a moment; pun intended.
Did you know Nissan is mass producing an electric car for sale in Japan, Europe, and the U.S. next year? Yes, I am serious. Sunday, Nissan introduced the Leaf, it’s zero emission electric car that seats five adults, travels 100 miles on a charge, and can go up to 90 mile per hour.
If Democrats and environmentalists really want to reduce global warming and clean up the air they would consider funding the infrastructure development for the Leaf and future electric cars. This infrastructure would include high voltage outlets and quick charge stations, both vital to the use of electric vehicles for longer trips (see the video at this link). Note that to recharge the Leaf will take 16 hours (U.S. and Japanese electrical systems) but only half an hour with quick charge stations.
A massive federal outlay of cash for charging stations nationwide and high voltage outlets in homes would immediately remove a giant obstacle to cleaning our air, create quality jobs, and free the nation, in fact the world from dependence on terrorist supporting oil nations. The impact would bring about a long term boost to our nation’s economy that could exceed that of the Federal Highway Act.
The stimulus money has not all been spent. Cash for Clunkers was hugely popular but terribly managed. Cap and Trade could turn into a huge ponzi scheme with no one in control. Instead of throwing more money into these programs let’s fund effective programs that fit well within the government’s competency. Electric infrastructure.
