JSU Fall 2014-4 Report

Respondents were provided a number of statements about the infrastructure in many cities
and towns. Each was asked to indicate if they strongly agreed, somewhat agreed, somewhat
disagreed or strongly disagreed. The following table presents the cumulative totals for those
strongly or somewhat agreeing with each of the infrastructure statements. Results are
presented in declining order of agreement according to national data.
A strong majority, 80.2%, see a direct correlation between a growing economy and longterm
investment in the national infrastructure. Further, a majority (60.3%) would be willing
to pay more in taxes to improve the safety and quality of their own community’s
infrastructure.
Statements USA South MS
For our national economy to grow and 80.2 78.1 82.2
add new jobs, we need increased longterm
investment in our national
infrastructure
If it is not an emergency, too many needed 80.1 78.9 82.9
infrastructure improvements nationally are
delayed, postponed or “kicked down the
road”
In general, businesses don’t move to 78.6 76.6 86.5
towns or cities with infrastructure in
disrepair
Inaction or our failure to improve our 78.6 74.2 71.8
infrastructure will make it more
difficult to compete internationally in
economic terms
Politicians avoid critical long-term 75.0 74.2 77.9
infrastructure needs because spending
is unpopular with voters
I would prefer to see funds moved from 71.3 68.0 74.0
other programs and services to fund
infrastructure improvements rather than
raise taxes
In general, parents don’t move to towns or 69.6 71.1 77.2
cities with school buildings in disrepair
I, along with friends/neighbors can have 65.5 66.4 70.1
an impact on improving public
infrastructure
I’m willing to pay reasonably more in taxes
to improve the safety and quality of my
own community’s infrastructure
60.3 62.5 58.7
Institute of Government Polling Center Page 27