Physical infrastructure

Definition
A nation’s physical infrastructure consists of a broad array of systems and facilities that house and transport people and goods and provide services. Among other things, this infrastructure includes transportation networks, including roads, airports, rail, and mass transit; housing; federal buildings and facilities; and postal and telecommunications services. These systems and facilities do not exist in isolation: decisions about where to build or expand roads affect decisions about housing and vice versa, and, in turn, these decisions affect the need for and location of public facilities and communications and energy services.

United States
Historically, in the United States the federal government has supported the construction of much of this infrastructure and helped to ensure the safety of services it provides. It builds, owns, operates, and maintains federal infrastructure such as federal buildings, dams, and waterways; financially assists state and local governments to build, own, operate, and maintain facilities such as roads, transit systems, and airports; and regulates public works. State and local governments and the private sector also play significant roles in planning, developing, and maintaining this infrastructure.