Infrastructure Issues and Spending Practices

Abstract

This paper examines patterns of infrastructure investment in Illinois municipalities since the end of the Great Recession. By evaluating the status of infrastructure in 52 municipalities using expenditure information from a 2018 survey of mayors, it summarizes the strategies being used and the degree to which municipalities are responding to fiscal stress by diverting resources from current services to offset capital needs. The results show that the overall condition of streets has deteriorated, whereas bridge structures are faring better. Water and sewer rates generally remain sufficient to sustain service, though some facilities need upgrades.