We have a dream

Its an easy hobby of many to look back with nostalgia (and perhaps even shame) at the breathtaking investments made in civil infrastructure by our predecessors.

It seems that today we can barely muster the communal will to repair potholes except during a brief window before every election. Even then, there might be protests that fixing potholes only encourages more cars...

Its hard to imagine how our Giant Ancestors managed the feats of civil infrastructure that we have inherited.

Here's one theory:
They did it because it was fun.

The fact is that these endeavours were embraced because of their scope and majesty. Their era judged these projects without hesitation. To be a part of the new generation was energizing enough to overcome the barriers that our modern eyes find so intimidating.

Back then, any major new project was welcomed with parades and every community leader was on the same side: progress, growth, technology, prosperity.

For a few decades now, we've been cautiously preoccupied with avoiding, fearing and tidying up of unanticipated consequences. It is wise to be cautious, but it has become an entrenched habit for us. Today, any new project is first opposed by whoever's backyard it is in. Power lines obstruct views. But then others join in opposition. More power lines means more houses, means more cars, means more traffic and more pollution. We have come to equate "progressive" with "anti-growth".

But the assumptions underlying that attitude are about to change. We've gone back to the drawing board for the next generation of infrastructure and at last we have the right solutions in hand. The clean efficient foundation of Solar and Wind power are the roots from which an exciting new era of infrastructure build will now bloom.

The reflex to oppose will still twitch, but when those proposed power lines are the first link in the new national smart grid, carrying power from solar farms with greater efficiency than ever before and that power will drive electric cars, public transportation ...the muscle that was once opposition will flex with pride and enthusiasm.

We've caught our breath for a generation, taken inventory and sharpened our pencils.

Now its time to dust off the old dreams, and soar again.