Infrastructure investment: Is it a win-win scenario?

Stimulating job creation and hiring has been one of the leading challenges facing economists and policymakers in recent years. While labor reports have shown considerable signs of recovery, most analysts do not expect the market to even near pre-recession levels in 2012.

This is particularly problematic for the construction sector, which has lost some 2 million jobs since the recession began and holds onto an industry unemployment rate in the low teens. For this reason, a number of analysts are renewing their calls for further investment in infrastructure - including nationwide transportation networks, wireless capabilities and public education facilities.

Supporters view such a strategy as a win-win: Not only does infrastructure investment create construction and engineering jobs, it also simultaneously upgrades America's road systems, schools and communications networks. Many advocates view such a strategy as imperative for the health of the construction management sector.

"American families and communities are suffering from the consequences of anemic economic growth and high unemployment," writes Donna Cooper for the Center for American Progress. "Meanwhile, aging roads, bridges, water systems and other key public assets are putting our public safety and national economic competitiveness at risk."