Iowans can rest easier knowing there will finally be investments in our future with the Infrastructure bill that was signed into law thanks to the leadership of President Biden and U.S. Congressional Democrats.
In the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the state of Iowa will receive $3.4 billion for highway projects and another $432 million for bridge replacement.
For far too long Republican lawmakers have spent big on short-term fixes while ignoring many of our modern economy’s long-term needs. With the passing of this legislation, we can finally look forward to investments in global competitiveness, modernization of our infrastructure, and more opportunities for working families to get ahead.
Here are a few more examples of how this legislation will directly benefit Iowans:
- The average driver in Iowa spends more than $300 every year to fix their car due to driving on roads in need of repair. Thanks to Democrats’ infrastructure deal, funding for the 403 miles of Iowa highway in poor condition will put cash back in Iowans’ pockets.
- Part of maintaining healthy infrastructure in the state is a strong investment in public transportation, and Iowa will receive $305 million to address public transportation options across the state.
- Iowa has needed major investments in flood prevention in vulnerable areas such as Cedar Rapids and Council Bluffs. Additional dollars will help to address the backlog of storm resiliency and flood mitigation projects.
- As we saw during the pandemic, we have an urgent need to help students, families, and small businesses get access to affordable and accessible broadband. An additional $100 million in broadband funding will reach approximately 74,000 families who currently do not have access to the internet.
President Biden and Democratic lawmakers are truly investing in the people of Iowa by expanding internet access, reducing supply chain disruptions, and keeping our communities safe – all without raising taxes on the middle class while continuing to lead the way in job creation and historic investments.
