APLU Statement on President Biden’s Infrastructure Proposal

Washington, DC – Association of Public and Land-grant Universities (APLU) President Peter McPherson today released the following statement regarding President Biden’s infrastructure proposal.

[View APLU Infrastructure Priorities]

“We appreciate President Biden outlining an infrastructure proposal. A significant investment in our nation’s infrastructure is overdue.

“We are very pleased to see the proposal invests in research and related infrastructure, reflecting the central role university-based scientific research has in fostering innovation and fueling economic growth. Federal research agencies are vital to developing world-changing technologies, life-saving therapies, and game-changing solutions to vexing societal challenges such as climate change. Investing in research infrastructure at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions will enhance the nation’s research enterprise and expand opportunities for students of color in STEM.

“The proposal would also make important strides toward universal broadband access. The last year has underscored the importance of access to high-speed Internet to learning for millions of students. We thank the administration for proposing a significant, meaningful investment in this critical resource.

“We know the administration will continue to unveil further details of its infrastructure agenda in the coming weeks. We look forward to continuing to engage with the administration and lawmakers to advocate for the needed investments in public research universities’ education, research, and community engagement missions to advance the public good.”