Roads, bridges, transit, airports, waterways, reliable power, and even waste management- all are the infrastructure of a functioning modern society.

The infrastructure we build today is stronger, smarter, and longer-lasting than ever before. But cutting edge projects are costly, and finding a way to finance future infrastructure is almost as challenging as constructing it.

This week, Great Futures looks at innovations that are helping us build smarter Canadian infrastructure, and considers ways that we can cover the costs.

The Banpo Bridge in Seoul, South Korea, features the Moonlight Rainbow Fountain. The fountain pumps water directly from the river below, and that water is continuously recycled through 10,000 nozzles. More than just infrastructure, the bridge has become a tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.

Photo courtesy of Gu Gyobok.