• DKP@lemmy.world
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    1 year ago

    Sometimes I like to think about the logistical challenges with a switch to metric. The one that always gives me pause is highway signs. Thinking about the monumental task of replacing every speed sign, distance sign, and mile marker across the country in any timely period makes my head hurt.

    It could certainly be done, and is probably easier than I think with all the state DoTs working independently on it especially over time. We have a lot of road with a lot of signs.

    • JungleJim@sh.itjust.works
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      1 year ago

      That’s a good point, but we don’t have to even fully replace them. I admit I don’t know the name of the technology but I see many street signs or construction signs that have basically a printed metal sticker slapped over the old information.

    • Dharma Curious@startrek.website
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      1 year ago

      I honestly hate that argument. “it would cost so much to change all those signs” is just negative talk for “it would employee a shit ton of people, create a lot of jobs, and be a major infrastructure project that could help our economy.”. Honestly, the economic benefit of major infrastructure works is rarely talked about as much as it should be. Mainly, I think, because the people it benefits are the ones actually doing the work. And that’s scary to a certain segment of society that would like very much that not to be the case.