Where are we and where are we going? The first part of this ASCE SmartBrief special year-end report rounds up the stories and events most read about in 2008. Part II will look at what's in store for 2009, and it will be in your inbox on Thursday.

Infrastructure was a dominant issue in 2008. A historic presidential election and an economic downturn brought new attention to infrastructure solutions. The crumbling economy forced calls for a massive infusion into infrastructure projects dealing with bridge, rail and highway repairs, but we're still waiting to see what is finally approved. Meanwhile, O'Hare International Airport gained the dubious status of being among the worst in runway near-misses.

Overall, according to ASCE's most recent Report Card for America's Infrastructure, $1.6 trillion is needed to make vital repairs and upgrades. During the year, ASCE made forward strides in its campaign to Raise the Grades on America's Infrastructure, and four important steps in its action plan have been enacted into law, including full funding for SAFETEA-LU guarantees in FY 2008, and the Water Resources Development Act.

ASCE advanced other key measures in Congress through committee and floor action, including the Dam Rehabilitation Act and the National Infrastructure Improvement Act. The Society was also very involved presenting congressional testimony in such areas as economic recovery and infrastructure investment and the Bridge Reconstruction and Inspection Act.