Dive Summary:

• USA Today's editorial board echoed New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo's sentiments Monday, calling for better infrastructure in response to the damage sustained from recent storms.
• The editorial praises utility workers, but argues that the current grid failed to support the digital economy in the storm's wake.
• The piece specifically suggests burying "trouble-prone lines" and states that the costs should be weighed against future risks of lost productivity.

From the article:

"... The crews deserve plaudits, and yes, Sandy was extreme. But the utilities are not powerless. They can bury more key lines, harden substations and protect cellular communications, a vital link when disaster strikes. But that will happen only when pressure from the public, the news media and ultimately the regulators who approve rate increases makes it happen. ..."