Counties Applaud Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework, Commit to Partnering on Final Bill

Washington – The National Association of Counties (NACo) today responded to the infrastructure framework agreed to by President Biden and a bipartisan group of Senators. The framework includes a surface transportation reauthorization and other infrastructure legislation, including water, stormwater and broadband projects.

NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase said:

We are encouraged that President Biden and lawmakers from both political parties are a step closer to addressing major infrastructure across America. The framework laid out in the bipartisan compromise on an infrastructure package would help counties rebuild our nation’s infrastructure and economy.

“Counties play a major role in maintaining critical infrastructure. We own 44 percent of the nation’s road miles and nearly 40 percent of all bridges. We are also involved in the vast majority of public transportation systems and a third of all public airports.

“Counties invest significant resources in infrastructure as we fulfill our responsibilities to keep our communities healthy, safe and vibrant. This infrastructure package includes much-needed investments in transportation, water and sewer, ports, resiliency, environmental stewardship and broadband.

“We particularly commend the president and bipartisan group of lawmakers for ensuring the next infrastructure package will help to bridge the digital divide, which will increase our economic competitiveness and connect our residents. Broadband connectivity is more important than ever. Americans in every corner of the country rely on high-speed every day, including at work, school, at medical appointments and more.

“With a focus on preparing our communities for the future, we thank President Biden and congressional partners for their leadership in addressing the country’s infrastructure needs. We know today’s compromise is not a final infrastructure package, and we look forward to working with the administration and bipartisan members of Congress to help craft this legislation. Together, we can achieve our shared goals, strengthening our nation’s infrastructure, economy and resiliency for the future.”

Learn more about NACo’s transportation and infrastructure priorities here.