...But, for too long, infrastructure investments have been fraught with disparities along race and class lines. Low-income neighborhoods are too often saddled with inadequate transportation, overcrowded and run-down schools, and other degraded public facilities. Some rural communities lack even the most basic investments like sidewalks, drain pipes, and sewer systems.  There can be no doubt that increased and ongoing investments in infrastructure are needed.

Yet, when we invest in infrastructure, we must always ask: Who pays? Who benefits? Who bears the environmental impacts? And, who decides? To ensure everyone benefits from these public investments, everyone—including and especially residents of low-income communities and communities of color—must have a seat at the negotiating table.

The PolicyLink Center for Infrastructure Equity advocates for fair and inclusive policies and provides community and grassroots leaders, advocates, and public officials with the tools, training, and consultation needed to ensure that public investments in infrastructure create economic opportunity and health in all communities.