Law will get state moving ahead again
There may be no state in the country that better reflects the state of America’s infrastructure than Connecticut. U.S. infrastructure ranks 13th compared to other countries around the world. Here in Connecticut, many of us spend more time tied up in traffic in our commutes to work than we spend with our families. Rail commuters face unreliable service, and often travel on trains that are past their prime. Multiple studies show how much we lose in economic opportunity due to our outdated infrastructure. Each of us, in our own way, experiences the cost of failing to invest in the arteries of our economy.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed by President Biden and championed by our congressional delegation, is a giant step towards bringing Connecticut’s infrastructure and economy into the 21st century. Connecticut is expected to receive billions in federal aid for highway funds, and we can compete for additional federal funding for other projects that will deliver substantial economic benefits. These funds will make it easier for people and goods to travel across Connecticut.
Biden’s law is also poised to improve the lives of train riders by maintaining and upgrading our railways. Connecticut’s proximity to New York City and Boston can be strengthened if people are able to travel to those destinations quickly and reliably. Improving the Northeast Corridor will go a long way to unlocking Connecticut’s untapped potential, attracting additional development, business and job opportunities. Better trains can also make it easier to commute from town to town within Connecticut’s borders, taking cars off the road and further reducing gridlock.
The law also includes $7.5 billion for a national network of electric vehicle chargers, an important step in the fight against climate change. This national network will create jobs, improve air quality and reduce harmful emissions. Connecticut is on pace to receive $53 million for electric vehicle chargers. Equally important is the $100 million anticipated for Connecticut’s broadband coverage, which will help businesses compete online and help students complete their homework.
President Biden's investments in roads, bridges, trains, electric vehicles and other initiatives, are really investments in our daily lives. Shorter commutes mean we can be more productive at work and spend more time with our families. Better rails will attract more businesses to Connecticut, creating job opportunities across the state. And increased electric vehicles and broadband accessibility will get Connecticut and the rest of the country moving again.