National Governors Association Summit Convenes Leaders of Maryland, Michigan, Tennessee
Governors and infrastructure policy and technology experts from across the country discussed emerging trends and best practices for securing vital infrastructure against human-caused and natural threats at the second of four National Governors Association (NGA) stakeholder summits in support of Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s 2019-20 NGA Chair’s Initiative.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Tennessee Governor Bill Lee joined Gov. Hogan in Detroit, alongside other state officials and executives of energy, transportation and water companies. They explored technological innovations and best practices to reduce the threat of cyberattacks and deal with challenges posed by extreme weather to critical infrastructure, including energy systems, water and stormwater facilities, and the transportation sector.
The summit was the second of four planned U.S. convenings in support of Gov. Hogan’s NGA Chair’s Initiative, Infrastructure: Foundation for Success. Gov. Hogan joined fellow governors and experts in Boston in September to study measures to relieve traffic congestion, and led a study tour in Australia later that month to explore innovative funding models.
“While no public policy can prevent all disasters, governors and leaders across America can show real leadership, and work together to find innovative new ways to withstand disasters better, and to respond and recover more quickly,” said Gov. Hogan. “Throughout this bipartisan summit, we discussed the most effective measures that governors can take to fulfill our most important responsibility: protecting our states and our citizens.”
“As the climate changes, we must continue the work to mitigate the effects of natural disasters on our infrastructure and our communities,” said Gov. Whitmer. “Michigan is home to tough, innovative people who are stepping up and helping prepare our state for the future, whether it’s by joining in on efforts to combat climate change or keeping us safe from cyberattacks. I’m proud to work together with my fellow governors and leaders from across the country who are taking bold steps to protect us from harm.”
“Infrastructure connects everyone in our states,” said Gov. Lee. “From roads, to water, to electricity, to cybersecurity, we need a comprehensive and thoughtful approach to addressing these many challenges. Thanks to my colleagues Governor Hogan and Governor Whitmer for hosting this event and helping us continue to find ways to help our states solve our most pressing infrastructure needs.”
Video from the summit can be viewed and downloaded here.
