North American Made curb boxes

[rnjroles]

I've noticed that Public Works Departments in the at least the Northeast like to call out the use of "buffalo style curb boxes - North American Made". I'm curious as to why this is designated this way. Why do they want them to be North American Made? Can any one explain?

Thanks

 

[SteveWag]

The state of Pennsylvania is enforcing a law that makes it illegal for any municipal entity, or school district to incorporate foreign made ferrous items into any structure or facility owned by the municipality or school district. This “procurement law” applies to structural steel, structural or pressure pipe, valves, pumps, mechanical equipment, nuts and bolts, valve boxes etc. It is VERY hard to design water or sewage facilities and keep inside of the law. This type of “procurement law” is common in the Northeast, I think.

Steve Wagner

 

[jartgo]

Many contracts funded with federal dollars have a "buy American" clause as well.