• Large scale concrete infrastructure established.
  
  
• Inadequate provision for upkeep ...
  
  
• Maintenance becomes a major problem …
  
  
• Increasing focus on repair of existing structures - instead of new construction.
  
  
• Gradual deterioration due to lack of funds ...
  
  
• Problems in supplying quality drinking water ...
  
  
• Excessive, unreasonable taxes ...
  
  
• Large military expenditures ...
  
  
• Border security concerns ...
  

The above troubling historical scenario, when the ancient Roman Empire was collapsing around 400 A.D., has been described by David Moore in his work on Roman concrete.

References:
David Moore: "The Roman Pantheon: The Triumph of Concrete", 1995.

Links:
More information on reinforced concrete and monitoring
Information on Roman concrete at: www.romanconcrete.com