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Compare the 2008 Presidential Candidates: Infrastructure and Urban Development

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The I-35W bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota collapsed on August 1, 2007

Faulty maintenance was blamed for the collapse of the I-35W bridge in Minneapolis, Minnesota in August 2007

Photo © Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Compare the 2008 Presidential Candidates:

During America's 2008 presidential election, candidates Barack Obama and John McCain expressed many views about infrastructure, transportation systems, and urban development. What were those views? Did winner Barack Obama meet his goals?

What is "Infrastructure"?:

Infrastructure is a term used by architects, engineers, and urban planners to describe essential facilities for cities and communities. Infrastructure includes roads, bridges, mass-transit systems, electrical lines, water lines, sewers, and fire and police stations.

Why is Infrastructure Important?:

Roads, bridges, railroads, mass-transit systems, dams, reservoirs, and utilities are essential for the economic vitality of our businesses and communities, the conservation of fuel and other natural resources, and the comfort and safety of residents and visitors. Recent examples of failed infrastructure in the USA include:

Infrastructure and America's Presidential Election:

The candidates for the two major US political parties have very different views on how government should fund infrastructure and urban development. They each have different plans for the development of efficient, safe, energy-efficient cities.

John McCain:

John McCain is the 2008 Presidential Candidate for the Republican Party. John McCain believes that government funding is often wasteful. He seeks privatization of America's rail system. Find out John McCain's views on Infrastructure and Urban Development >

Barack Obama:

Barack Obama is the 2008 Presidential Candidate for the Democratic Party. While seeking reforms, Obama generally supports funding projects to support infrastructure, discourage sprawl, and develop walkable communities. Find out Barack Obama's views on Infrastructure and Urban Development >

More About Infrastructure:

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