State’s infrastructure

Recently, President Trump asked us to recognize “Infrastructure Week” for the rollout of the administration’s infrastructure priorities. Infrastructure covers a wide variety of topics, most of which directly affect each of our lives in the Natural State. When I think of infrastructure, I think roads, bridges, and highways. In truth, that doesn’t come close to covering the definition in full. Of course, our highways and roads need attention and should be a priority, but it is also important to keep in mind the other areas of infrastructure that deserve attention.

In Arkansas, we can be proud of the contributions our state makes with robust industries that fall within the infrastructure categories, specifically the energy industry. At the Little Rock Port, Welspun Tubular produces pipe used in pipelines around the world. In Northeast Arkansas, we have two magnificent steel manufacturers and other related industry. Let’s keep growing our economy.

The American Petroleum Institute released a study on the economic opportunity in developing oil and natural gas infrastructure. The opportunities for economic development are vast: Up to a million jobs could be supported, up to $1.34 trillion in private natural gas and oil infrastructure investment could occur, and up to $1.89 trillion could be added to the U.S. GDP.

Let’s move forward with expanding infrastructure and growing Arkansas’ economy to benefit our hardworking men and women and their families. RONALD CALDWELL Wynne

State Sen. Ronald Caldwell is chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development Committee, and a member of the Joint Energy Committee.