The American Society of Civil Engineers released its quadrennial report card on the nation’s infrastructure today. It’s less lousy than it was four years ago. As the New York Times reports:

It is the first time in the 15 years that the engineering organization has conducted its study that the grade has improved. The report is showing progress in six areas, including bridges, rail, wastewater and drinking water. No category saw a lower grade than that given in the previous report…

Some connected trends have led to the shift, according to the engineering organization. It cited a rise in the private financing of public projects and renewed attention from state and local government to kick-start their own projects, rather than wait for Washington to send money.

It’s not the most exciting public policy topic – even the term “infrastructure” is offputting. The only thing it has going for it is the fact that it’s vitally important to a successful economy. From the report’s executive summary:

Infrastructure is the foundation that connects the nation’s businesses, communities, and people, driving our economy and improving our quality of life. For the U.S. economy to be the most competitive in the world, we need a first class infrastructure system – transport systems that move people and goods efficiently and at reasonable cost by land, water, and air; transmission systems that deliver reliable, low-cost power from a wide range of energy sources; and water systems that drive industrial processes as well as the daily functions in our homes.

Something to consider as lawmakers wrestle with Washington’s unmet transportation requirements.