Press Releases
Boozman Calls for Better Infrastructure Investment in Rural America
Senator Also Advocates Adoption of New Technologies to Advance Transportation Modernization
May 15 2025
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) questioned U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy on his plans to help rural communities in Arkansas and across the country maintain important transportation services and secure funding for critical infrastructure projects.
The senator reiterated the importance of the Essential Air Service (EAS) and Contract Towers programs, which he has long supported for their success collaborating with private industry to serve rural residents.
“I know you know that, coming from the part of the country that you represented,” Boozman said.
The EAS program helps connect smaller communities to regional and national transportation hubs while the Contract Tower program, in which five Natural State airports participate, provides high quality, cost-effective and critical air traffic control services that enhance safety, improve operations and deliver significant Federal Aviation Administration cost-savings.Boozman additionally urged greater attention to the persistent problem rural communities face when competing for infrastructure investments.
“The most recent census revealed that more than half of the counties across the nation saw a population decline. While rural America’s population is declining, its infrastructure remains just as vital in our interconnected communities. Urban and suburban projects are often given priority,” Boozman said.
“You have to pay attention to it. You have to understand it. And it’s having people from rural America fight for it. I think that’s critical,” Duffy responded. “On the discretionary grants, there’s tools and help that’s offered to smaller communities to try to access additional resources, but it goes to the point that this has become so complicated. What we’re going to work on is, how can we make this process simpler?"
“The ability to apply is so complex, so complicated. You’re talking about spending thousands of dollars for grant writers. That’s something we’ve simply got to concentrate on. Because it does make it very, very difficult for our small communities,” Boozman said.
The senator also raised the benefits of adopting emerging technologies to plan, build and maintain infrastructure.
“From advanced digital construction management systems to automated inspection tools like drones and remote sensing, these innovations can help address workforce shortages, improve project delivery and enhance safety across our transportation network,” Boozman said.
Duffy assured the senator that he and the department are eager to embrace innovation.
“Sometimes we’re thought of as hard hats and light-reflecting vests. I am in favor of exploring all options that can reduce our costs, increase safety. I do think we are at the cusp of a technological revolution in regard to the way that people move, and our products move. We have to get it right,” Duffy explained.
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