CROSSROADS study presents global insights into community sentiment on infrastructure

Global professional services company GHD has launched the findings of a comprehensive study that sheds light on the important role that infrastructure plays in meeting the diverse needs of current and future generations. 

CROSSROADS is a new research-backed exploration of intergenerational equity, through an infrastructure lens.  

Based on a survey of more than 10,000 people across 10 countries, this wide-ranging study presents a fascinating snapshot of community sentiment – preferences, priorities and multi-generational perspectives. 

There is a clear global divide in outlook, with some nations (Philippines, Singapore, UAE) being far more optimistic about the future than those where housing affordability is a major concern (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, US).  

Generational differences in optimism also appear more pronounced in Anglosphere* nations. Generation Z shows the highest optimism, believing that decisions being made today will improve the state of their communities. Generation X and Baby Boomers express the most pessimism, while Millennials present a more neutral stance. 

“The research shows that our communities are at a CROSSROADS. They face compounding pressures from all directions. Climate change, population growth, economic constraints – and more. It’s a confoundingly complex web of challenges,” says Andrew Porter, GHD’s Global Lead – Future Communities.  

Key findings from the study include: 

• Environmental concerns: People are worried about climate change and its related social and environmental impacts. 
• Cost of living pressures: Communities everywhere are under increasing cost pressures, most notably experienced through a lack of affordable housing. 
• Transportation challenges: Citizens are finding it hard to access reliable and affordable public and active transport options in order to limit private car use.  

“All of this data has provided a unique insight into our communities’ hopes and aspirations for the future – and a mandate to think differently about how to resolve these challenges. At this critical juncture, we can move forward with confidence if we tap into the diverse perspectives of different generations,” Andrew concludes. 


*Anglosphere is the name given to countries where the majority of people speak English as their first language. The term is usually taken to encompass Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the US. 

About GHD

GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 11,000+ professionals are connected across 160 offices located on five continents.