In our latest query to the Utah Policy Savant Panel, we asked the question:
Given the need for stimulus, and the state’s healthy debt balance, should the next legislature
approve a large bonding program for state infrastructure? If so, should part of the bond proceeds be used to expand public transit?
Natalie Gochnour, Director, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, University of Utah
The first economic stimulus priority for Utah should be federal stimulus to help those most severely impacted by the pandemic. I encourage the Utah congressional delegation to act with pace.
Utah state government leaders should also consider up to $2 billion in accelerated bonding for infrastructure. This investment can achieve a triple bottom line – job creation, positive social impact, and long-term capital improvements. Today’s extremely low interest rates and the wind-down over the next two years of major construction projects (Salt Lake City International Airport, Facebook data cente