Cities Call for Bold Infrastructure Vision in State of the Union

WASHINGTON — January 25, 2018 — Following today’s White House meeting with city leaders on infrastructure, and as President Donald Trump prepares to deliver his first State of the Union address next week, National League of Cities (NLC) President Mark Stodola, mayor of Little Rock, Arkansas, released the following statement:

“America’s city leaders know from first-hand experience that our country’s most pressing challenge is infrastructure. For too long, we have failed to invest in our roads, bridges, ports, water systems, and broadband networks — and now halfway measures will no longer suffice.

“As local leaders, we call on President Trump to use his State of the Union speech to outline a bold vision for rebuilding America’s infrastructure in partnership with local governments. That means a plan that works collaboratively with cities — and invests in our vision to not just repair, but to prepare for the future.

“In today’s evolving world, our communities need a smart, modern infrastructure network to succeed. We can achieve that vision — but only through a strong federal-local partnership and a plan that acknowledges the reality on the ground. America’s cities are already working to create world-class infrastructure. It’s time for Washington to rebuild with us.”