Public Infrastructure in Economic Development and Growth: Evidence From Rural Manufacturers

The role of public infrastructure in economic development and growth is examined and reported here. Specific attention is paid to the importance of infrastructure to small rural manufacturing firms in upper New England and Wisconsin. Study results suggest that while infrastructure is important to small manufacturing firms, other community attributes such as overall community attitudes toward change and the underlying forces of firm start-ups are more important. While adequate investments in infrastructure may be necessary for economic development and growth, it is not sufficient.