NC Legislature Passes Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill

The North Carolina General Assembly reached a rare moment of bipartisan cooperation today, passing a comprehensive $4.2 billion infrastructure package that promises to reshape the state's transportation, broadband, and water systems over the next five years.

The bill, known as the NC Forward Infrastructure Act, passed the Senate 38-12 and the House 87-33, with strong support from both Republican and Democratic caucuses. Governor signed the legislation during a ceremony at the State Capitol.

"This is what happens when we put North Carolina first," said the bill's lead sponsor. "Our roads, our internet access, and our water systems have needed attention for years. Today we're delivering."

Key provisions include: - $2.1 billion for highway and bridge repairs - $900 million for rural broadband expansion - $750 million for water and sewer infrastructure - $450 million for public transit improvements

The broadband provisions are particularly significant for rural communities in eastern and western North Carolina, where internet access has lagged behind urban centers. The bill requires that funded broadband projects deliver minimum speeds of 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload.

Transportation advocates praised the highway funding but noted it falls short of the estimated $12 billion backlog in road maintenance. Environmental groups expressed concern about the lack of dedicated funding for electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The package will be funded through a combination of federal matching funds, state bonds, and a modest increase in vehicle registration fees. Implementation is expected to begin in the next fiscal quarter, with major projects breaking ground by mid-2027.