Gig Workers & Infrastructure: Using Smartphones for Prioritization

The Untapped Potential of the Gig Economy in US Infrastructure Repair

While discussions center on potential infrastructure legislation in Congress aimed at revitalizing US roads, bridges, and railways, a crucial aspect often overlooked is the initial prioritization of projects. Surprisingly, solutions may already exist within the burgeoning gig economy.

The Scale of the Challenge

Engaging professional consultants is essential for assessing infrastructure needs. However, the sheer volume of infrastructure – over 4 million miles of public roads, 617,000 bridges, 91,000 dams, and 140,000 rail miles, as reported in the American Society of Civil Engineers’ 2021 Report Card – presents a significant prioritization challenge.

Immediate attention is required for systems already exhibiting critical issues, such as the Sidney Sherman Bridge in Houston, which experienced closure due to corrosion and was recently designated as “structurally deficient.”

Leveraging Smartphone Technology and Gig Workers

A powerful, yet often underestimated, resource is the widespread adoption of smartphones. Approximately 216 million U.S. adults currently own smartphones, representing 85% of the population – a record high according to Pew Research Center.

Federal, state, and local governments should explore utilizing the capabilities of smartphones and the gig economy. Gig workers could be engaged to gather inspection data and photographs of vital infrastructure across the nation.

This collected data and imagery could then be instantly transmitted to a centralized national database for evaluation by qualified engineers and consultants.

Proven Methodology

This approach isn’t theoretical; it has been successfully implemented previously. We have experience utilizing a global network of gig workers through an open-source application, ensuring complete transparency.

Past projects have included documenting sewer access points, bridges, and water access points. Furthermore, we collaborated with a major nonprofit and USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance to enhance their Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Program with rapid needs assessments in Colombia, mobilizing contributors for emergency data collection on water access and sanitation.

Scaling the Solution

The same methodology can be applied to assess bridges, roads, tunnels, and other US infrastructure. The technology is readily available and scalable.

Prioritization can be achieved by leveraging the visual input and observations of gig workers via their smartphones, followed by detailed implementation by professional experts. Provisions within the Senate bill may offer funding for this type of technological advancement.

A Democratized Approach to Infrastructure

Employing this gig-worker-enabled smartphone technology will not only expedite prioritization but also empower citizens to participate in the rebuilding process.

This fosters a grassroots movement, enabling everyday Americans to contribute to the repair and modernization of US infrastructure for both present and future generations.

Ultimately, the solution is straightforward and readily accessible – utilizing our existing smartphone technology and the power of the gig economy.