What civil engineers are reading this week

• ASCE ‘vehemently opposes’ White House plan to alter science research grant process

  The Society says a proposal to give political appointees control over federal grant approvals would eliminate independence, evidence-based assessment, and outcome-based thinking. Read the official statement.

• Concrete and historic words shape the soon-to-open Obama Presidential Center

  Designers and engineers overcome structural and materials challenges to deliver the venue’s signature concrete panels in Chicago. Which famous speech was captured with the intricately designed letters?

• NASA advances wastewater recycling system for future moon and Mars habitats

  NASA is testing a mobile wastewater treatment facility designed to support long-term human habitation on the moon and Mars.

• Microsoft seeks Nevada tariff to shield ratepayers from data center costs

  The proposal would require large-load customers to pay for infrastructure built specifically to serve their projects while preserving standard utility charges for broader grid services.

• Can stadiums be energy efficient? New map shows that many of them are

  The U.S. Green Building Council releases an interactive map detailing the features that help sports facilities operate efficiently, notwithstanding their size and complex operations. 

• Senate panel sets sights on highway bill

  Advancing the next surface transportation reauthorization measure is a priority for the Environment and Public Works Committee as lawmakers shape a long-term highway bill, Chair Shelley Moore Capito says.