Coalition for National Infrastructure Bank proposes funding model to cities

The City Council meeting on July 7, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding the Coalition for the National Infrastructure Bank. A representative presented information about this initiative, which aims to revitalize the nation’s infrastructure through a bank originally conceptualized by Alexander Hamilton.

The speaker highlighted that the infrastructure bank has been utilized historically, including during the presidencies of Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt, to fund major projects such as the transcontinental railroad and the interstate highway system. Unlike previous iterations, the current proposal does not include a sunset clause, meaning it would not have a predetermined end date.

Importantly, the proposed legislation is designed to avoid increasing the national deficit or debt, as it would be funded through treasury bills. Municipalities would have the opportunity to borrow from this bank for various infrastructure needs, including water systems, energy grids, and affordable housing projects. The speaker expressed particular enthusiasm for potential investments in passenger and high-speed rail.

Included in the information packet provided to council members were resolutions from several cities, including Toledo, Ravenna, and Cleveland, all of which have endorsed the initiative. The representative noted that Lucas County and other municipalities have also shown support.

To further engage with the council, the organization behind the proposal offered to arrange a Zoom meeting with experts, including micro economists with extensive experience working with the International Monetary Fund, to discuss the initiative in greater detail.

This discussion marks a pivotal moment for Bowling Green as it considers joining a broader movement aimed at enhancing infrastructure funding and development across the region.