What's So Special About Black Locust?

CNN's John Sutter suggests that the U.S. should use black locust as a source of construction wood in Central Europe. Black locust is fast growing, nitrogen fixer and rot resistant; will last 100 to 150 years on wet soil. It also blooms rather spectacularly and provides food for pollinators. The plant has some complaints about being invasive but it can be an extremely useful plant.