Number: R40107 Title: The Role of Public Works Infrastructure in Economic Stimulus Authors: Claudia Copeland, Coordinator, Specialist in Resources and Environmental Policy Abstract: Interest in using federal government spending to stimulate U.S. economic recovery has intensified recently in response to indicators showing significant deterioration of the economy. Policymakers at all levels of government are debating a range of options to address these problems. Some favor using traditional monetary and fiscal policies. Others, however, favor making accelerated investments in the nation's public infrastructure in order to create jobs while also meeting infrastructure needs. This report is an overview of policy issues associated with the approach of using infrastructure as a mechanism for economic stimulus. Pages: 45 Date: January 6, 2009