A White House infrastructure bill could reach the Senate as early as July 19, according to multiple House and Senate Democratic sources. While the language of the bill is still in the works and will be up for debate, a White House Fact Sheet released at the end of last month included the following targets:
– Modernize and expand transit and rail networks across the U.S. to improve healthy and sustainable transportation options
– Repair and rebuild roads and bridges, prioritizing climate change mitigation, safety and equity
– Build a national network of electric vehicle chargers along highways in rural and disadvantaged communities
– Electrify thousands of school and transit buses to reduce emissions
– Eliminate lead service lines and pipes to deliver clean drinking water
– Connect all Americans to high-speed internet
– Upgrade the power infrastructure by building thousands of miles of new transmission lines, focusing on renewable energy
– Fund an Infrastructure Financing Authority for clean transportation and energy
– Protect infrastructure against climate change, cyber-attacks and extreme weather
How could it impact real estate?
While the influence will depend on several factors—including budgetary constraints, timing, final language, scope of projects, etc.—here’s what might change, creating a ripple effect into the world of real estate:
– Cleaner drinking water for homeowners
– Changes in traffic patterns, possibly adding value to communities currently struggling with backed-up traffic
– Improvements to affordable housing and community-based amenities such as schools, childcare centers, etc.
– Increased value to residential neighborhoods due to local bridge, building and traffic improvements
– Boost interest in investment properties in both the residential and commercial spaces
“Commercial real estate has been one of the industries most significantly impacted by the pandemic, and NAR is encouraged to see proposals in Washington intended to rebuild roads, improve energy efficiency, modernize transit and enhance other critical infrastructure systems in ways that will attract investment and increase property values,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Charlie Oppler. “As these proposals make their way through the legislative process, we look forward to working with Congress and the administration to ensure any such policies are funded prudently and responsibly.”
The Biden Administration’s bill will need to pass through both the Senate and the House before being signed into law by President Biden. This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.
Liz Dominguez is RISMedia’s senior online editor. Email her your real estate news ideas to lizd@rismedia.com.
