Construction Leader Highlights the Importance of Quality Work, Skilled Labor, and Community Involvement in Preserving America's Roads and Neighborhoods
TULARE, CA / ACCESS Newswire / August 21, 2025 / George Stanley, respected construction professional and founder of George Stanley Paving, is calling for increased awareness and support for two things that often go unnoticed until they fail: local infrastructure and the skilled labor behind it.
"People don't think much about the road they drive on-until it's full of potholes," Stanley says. "The truth is, what's beneath our feet is just as important as what's in front of us. But we're losing sight of that, and it's time we change that thinking."
The Problem Beneath the Surface
Stanley's call to action comes at a time when U.S. infrastructure is under strain. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), more than 43% of U.S. roads are in poor or mediocre condition, and aging systems are costing drivers an average of $1,000 per year in extra vehicle repairs. Meanwhile, the construction labor shortage remains one of the top threats to the industry's future, with over 500,000 unfilled trade positions as of 2025 (Associated Builders and Contractors).
Stanley sees these issues as deeply connected.
"We can't fix roads without people who know how to build them right. And we can't attract those people if we don't show that this work matters," he says. "This isn't just about concrete and asphalt. It's about investing in people who take pride in doing things the right way."
A Voice from the Field
George Stanley built his career from the ground up-literally. His company, George Stanley Paving, is known for delivering reliable, high-quality work across residential, commercial, and municipal projects. But even with a full project calendar, Stanley makes time to speak up for the trades and the people who work in them.
"We need to stop treating skilled labor like a last resort," he says. "This is honest work. It takes precision, planning, and experience. If you've ever seen what happens when a job's rushed or done cheap, you know how expensive those mistakes can be."
Stanley encourages individuals to think differently about their own role in infrastructure-from how they hire contractors, to the way they vote on local funding measures, to how they talk about trade careers with the next generation.
What the Community Can Do
This isn't a press release asking for donations or handouts. Instead, Stanley wants people to look around their neighborhoods and take action locally:
Support Local Projects: Attend town meetings, vote on bonds or road maintenance initiatives, and voice your support for infrastructure funding.
Value Skilled Trades: Encourage young people to explore trade careers. Share stories of local tradespeople who make a difference.
Choose Quality Over Cost: When hiring for residential or commercial work, ask questions about materials, methods, and certifications-not just the bottom line.
"Good work costs money, but bad work costs more," Stanley says. "We all have a role in deciding what kind of roads, sidewalks, and communities we live in."
A Future Built on Accountability
Stanley believes a strong future starts with respect-for the work, the workers, and the communities they serve.
"You don't have to be in construction to make a difference," he adds. "You just have to pay attention, ask the right questions, and stand behind people who care about doing the job right."
As America faces rising infrastructure challenges, voices like George Stanley's offer a grounded, hands-on reminder of what it takes to build-and maintain-something that lasts.
Contact: info@georgestanleypaving.com
SOURCE: George Stanley Paving
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