Waterways Included in the American Jobs Plan

President Biden announced The American Jobs Plan to rebuild the economy and invest in rural communities. One of the aspects of this plan that ICGA is most excited to see is the inclusion of investments in waterways.

Specifically, an additional $17 billion dollar investment for inland waterways, coastal ports, and land ports of entry is being requested from Congress by Biden. This kind of investment is crucial in repairing and maintaining the infrastructure that Illinois’ corn exports rely on.

While this is a huge step in the right direction, we are still waiting to hear where the funding for these projects will come. IL Corn recognizes that the money to support these projects will have to come from somewhere and it is our hope that the sources of this funding do not negatively impact agriculture.

Other topics addressed in this plan include improving rural broadband and repairs to highways and bridges- infrastructure that is also extremely important to rural communities. ICGA is committed to keeping its members informed as The American Jobs Plan progresses.