McCook construction projects use US materials

McCOOK, Neb. (AP) — Residents of McCook can take pride in knowing that municipal construction projects are being built with American-made materials, which is in line with the Build America, Buy America Act (BABAA). The law passed as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021, mandates that federally funded infrastructure projects use domestically sourced materials.

While Buy American policies have long protected domestic industries and national security, BABAA introduces stricter requirements for federally funded projects, ensuring that materials such as steel, concrete, aluminum, and electrical components come from American manufacturers. The initiative also addresses concerns over foreign “dumping” of cheaper materials, particularly steel, which has historically been a source of competition for U.S. producers.

Although the law was passed with bipartisan support, some critics raised concerns about potential cost increases and project delays, especially when U.S. production capacity is unable to meet demand. Steel, in particular, has been the subject of price fluctuations and foreign competition. To address these challenges, BABAA includes provisions for waivers, allowing non-domestic materials to be used in cases where American alternatives are unavailable or significantly more expensive.

For McCook, any municipal project receiving federal funds, even partially, must source its materials from U.S. suppliers.

When asked about the effects of BABAA on McCook projects, McCook City Manager Nate Schneider spoke to the larger intent of the requirements. “At a macro level, for the U.S. economy, it will more than likely be a good thing. It protects American products America’s employees and should cause companies to locate their facilities in the U.S.”

Schneider also reflected on the bottom line and how city projects are affected, saying, “At a micro level, it will more than likely make city projects more expensive. We have already started looking at the impact of BABAA on some our projects, namely the wastewater treatment plant update. One thing to note: if BABA materials increase the cost of a project by more than 25%, we can waive the requirements.”

The full impact of the BABAA on McCook’s construction projects will depend on the nature and scale of the work, as well as the level of federal funding involved. However, as the law continues to shape the future of infrastructure, it is clear that its benefits will extend beyond construction sites, fostering a more self-reliant and prosperous America. For McCook, these requirements represent an opportunity to contribute to the nation’s economic strength while ensuring that projects support American industries and workers.