By Jamie Martin
America’s farmers are masters at working with what they have. However, when it comes to transportation, even the best farmers cannot work around a broken system. Roads, bridges, railways, and waterways are essential to move agricultural goods from fertilizer suppliers to fields, and fresh crops to grocery stores. If one part of the transportation chain breaks, the entire food system is affected.
Federal investment in transportation infrastructure is vital. Long-term changes involve more than fixing potholes; they require building a modern system that can efficiently move agricultural goods, promote economic growth, and support freight demands.
Focus on High-Impact Investments
Transportation dollars should be allocated where they’ll have the greatest impact. Priority should be given to projects that directly support the movement of freight and agricultural goods. This means improving road and bridge modernization, especially for areas impacting the agricultural supply chain.
Delays in moving fertilizer or crops affect prices and production. By focusing funding on freight-specific infrastructure, we can lower costs, enhance efficiency, and maintain stable food supplies.
Rural Infrastructure Needs Attention
Farmers rely on rural roads and small bridges to access major shipping routes. Many of these are outdated and often restricted by weight limits. Narrow roads cannot accommodate modern agricultural equipment or bulk freight. This weak link in the supply chain is critical.
The upcoming highway bill should prioritize rural connections, fixing weight-restricted bridges, widening roads, and improving access to intermodal facilities.
Keep Projects Simple and Predictable
Infrastructure programs should be flexible and streamlined to avoid unnecessary regulations. Advanced planning and predictable funding help stretch budgets and reduce disruptions.
A reliable transportation system supports farmers, food processors, and consumers by keeping supply chains stable and reducing costs.
A Better System Benefits All
Stable, long-term investment in transportation infrastructure strengthens U.S. agriculture, ensuring economic growth and reducing disruptions. Transportation leaders like U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Congress’s leadership are helping shape a new highway bill, aimed for completion by September 30, 2026.
Photo Credit: istock-jmichl
Categories: National