Are public buildings considered infrastructure?

In the wake of President-elect Donald Trump’s declaration for some $1 billion in infrastructure construction spending in the coming years, a poll commissioned by the American Institute of Architects sheds light on where public buildings fit into the equation. 

The survey, conducted in October by The Harris Poll on behalf of AIA, asked 2,108 U.S. adults if they considered public buildings—schools, libraries, community centers, and parks—part of their community’s infrastructure. Their answer was an emphatic “yes.” Eighty-three percent of respondents said they consider public buildings "infrastructure," and 60% believe the condition of community buildings can lead to higher property values. 

Seven in 10 Americans want their public buildings renovated, and almost three-quarters consider public schools in good condition a “must have” in the communities in which they live. Eighty-two percent agree that public buildings are as important as transportation in defining community infrastructure. 

Public building funding

All charts courtesy of AIA.