Local, federal funding key to North Carolina’s 2022

Stem

Jasper Stem, executive director of the North Carolina Aggregates Association, spoke with P&Q about why he is optimistic about his state’s aggregates outlook in 2022 after an encouraging 2021.

Describe the current state of the industry within your state in a word or two.

Encouraging.

Describe your outlook for the aggregate industry in 2022.

Somewhat optimistic.

What factors are driving your outlook for 2022?

NCDOT (North Carolina Department of Transportation) finances are improving, and the pending federal infrastructure bill.

What are the greatest opportunities available to aggregate producers within your state in 2022?

Congress passing the infrastructure bill.

What are the greatest challenges aggregate producers will face within your state in 2022?

Continued labor shortages. Supply chain disruptions, including delays in getting equipment and materials.

Featured photo: kozmoat98/iStock / Getty Images Plus/Getty Images