New Hampshire’s Infrastructure Earns Improved C Grade in 2026
New Hampshire’s infrastructure has improved from a C- in 2017 to a C in 2026, according to the latest Infrastructure Report Card released by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). The assessment evaluates 12 infrastructure categories, with aviation receiving the highest grade of B- and stormwater and wastewater earning the lowest grades of D+. Improvements in aviation, ports, rail and roads contributed to the state’s higher overall rating. Notably, 86% of New Hampshire’s state highway system is now in good or fair condition, an 18% improvement over the past decade. Recent investments have also strengthened the state’s ports, which contribute approximately $1.9 billion annually to the economy.
Despite this progress, aging infrastructure and substantial funding gaps continue to pose challenges. Approximately 8.4% of the state’s bridges are in poor condition, while dams average more than 100 years old. Many drinking water and wastewater systems are operating beyond their intended service lives, with an estimated $1.3 billion needed for stormwater improvements and $2.2 billion for wastewater infrastructure through 2042. The report also highlights increasing risks from severe weather, coastal flooding and emerging contaminants, placing additional pressure on already strained infrastructure systems.
Looking ahead, ASCE emphasizes the importance of establishing stable, long-term funding sources to maintain progress and address critical infrastructure needs. Much of the state’s recent improvement has relied on temporary federal funding, including the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the American Rescue Plan Act. With workforce shortages, rising construction costs and growing maintenance demands, the report calls for stronger asset management, infrastructure modernization and investments in resilience. Continued collaboration among state agencies, municipalities and private-sector partners will be essential to improving New Hampshire’s infrastructure performance and supporting future economic growth.
