PRESS RELEASE: MBEF: Columbia’s Infrastructure Limitations Foreshadow Looming Problem for Missouri
Jefferson City, MO – Today, Missourians for a Balanced Energy Future (MBEF) Executive Director Irl Scissors made the case that Missourians cannot afford to wait on investments to improve the state’s energy infrastructure. Noting recent news in mid-Missouri that forecasts a looming statewide problem, Scissors called for action.
The Columbia Daily Tribune reported recently that Columbia Mayor Bob McDavid and City Manager Mike Matthes agree that no new development can occur in downtown Columbia until the electric and sewer infrastructure is improved. The two officials must now consider financing options to fund infrastructure investments.
“If we don’t find a way to finance the infrastructure, they can’t build here,” McDavid told the Columbia Daily Tribune.
Scissors noted, “The city of Columbia is literally at a growth stand-still until they make an investment in their infrastructure, resulting in a potential significant loss of economic development opportunities. Columbia is not alone, many Missouri communities are facing critical situations regarding the status of their infrastructure.”
Most of the hundreds of electric substations in Missouri were built between 40 and 50 years ago and many of the thousands of urban manholes date back 100 years. Energy projections indicate that unless equipment and facilities are updated in the coming years, current use – not including the question of new development – could result in system failures.
“Missourians have always enjoyed reliable and affordable energy. However, before too long Missouri won’t just be passing up new growth opportunities if infrastructure doesn’t improve. Consumers will face power failures based on current use alone,” Scissors warned.
Reports indicate that Columbia city officials face opposition to the multiple solutions being considered, but are hopeful that a fair compromise will result in a productive way to move forward.
Similarly, Scissors urges the state and local governments as well as energy providers to work together on compromise solutions to address the growing threat to Missouri consumers.
“Waiting for a perfect solution only brings Missourians closer to the risks of power failure and steeper costs for emergency repairs to facilities,” Scissors said. “Missouri energy companies and government officials need to find a way forward to prevent worst case outcomes for the state.”
###
Missourians For A Balanced Energy Future | moenergyfuture.org |
Contact: Adrianne Marsh (314) 827-6141
