Counties: Infrastructure Proposal Would Help Revitalize Our Communities and Strengthen Our Economy

Washington – The National Association of Counties (NACo) today responded to the unveiling of President Biden’s infrastructure package. The proposal includes a surface transportation reauthorization and other infrastructure legislation, including water, stormwater and broadband projects.

NACo Executive Director Matthew Chase said:

 President Biden’s infrastructure package would help counties rebuild our nation’s infrastructure and our economy. We welcome this step toward comprehensive legislation that preserves local decision-making, dedicates investments in locally owned infrastructure and ensures solvency of the Highway Trust Fund.

“Counties play a major role in maintaining critical infrastructure across America. 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 includes surface transportation, water and sewer, ports, public facilities and broadband.

“We must bridge the digital divide to increase our economic competitiveness and connect our residents. Broadband connectivity is more important than ever. Residents in every corner of the country rely on high-speed internet to conduct our daily lives, including work, school, medical appointments and more.”

“As counties focus on building infrastructure to prepare our communities for the future, we look forward to working with the administration and bipartisan members of Congress. Together, we can achieve our shared goals, strengthening our nation’s infrastructure, economy and resiliency.”

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