Graves: Rural broadband must be included in any infrastructure plan

(From Sixth District Congressman Sam Graves)

From the authorization of the National Road in 1806 to the expansive interstate system we use today, America’s infrastructure has always played a deciding role in the success of our nation.

That is why a top priority in 2018 must be hammering out a comprehensive infrastructure package that will help provide a foundation for our country to continue to grow and thrive for years to come.

I believe that a comprehensive infrastructure plan means an all of the above approach. Basic infrastructure needs such as roads and bridges must continue to be a part of the conversation. Throughout Missouri alone, many have fallen into an unacceptable state of disrepair and require immediate action.

However, our infrastructure needs today involve far more than just roads and bridges. Numerous airports are in need of more effective and efficient runways, our cities and towns are in desperate need of updated water and sewer systems, increased river commerce necessitates, new port facilities and upgraded locks and dams…the list goes on.

Within any new infrastructure plan, rural broadband is something that needs special consideration. Even in this age of technology, countless households across North Missouri don’t have access to high speed internet. This isn’t just about streaming movies; it’s about students accessing materials faster, farmers receiving the latest data in the combine in real time, and emergency services responding more quickly in times of crisis and potentially saving lives.

Congress has identified many of these glaring issues as priorities in the past, but its past time we see the needs of Missourians, and Americans everywhere, met. As Chairman of the Highways and Transit Subcommittee, I look forward to working with President Trump and my fellow colleagues to improve the infrastructure of today and build the infrastructure of tomorrow