While the first request most people make of their local infrastructure is one of physical reach—the idea that power lines, roads, broadband, and water pipes all connect to one’s home—the next question is usually one of price.
If infrastructure is to function as a shared platform to promote economic prosperity, the price for these services should be readily affordable. In this case, that means every household can pay their water, energy, transportation, telephone, and internet bills—and still leave money left over to purchase other essential items like housing, food, clothing, and healthcare. In a country as wealthy as the United States, access to infrastructure is a necessity that should be available to everyone. Unfortunately, that’s far from the case.
Accessing American infrastructure is a relatively expensive proposition, creating financial barriers to economic opportunity for many people throughout the country.
The Brookings Institute
by Adie Tomer
Fellow – Metropolitan Policy Program
May 9, 2018