Governor Stein Proclaims Rural Infrastructure Week

Rural Infrastructure Week

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, the State of North Carolina comprises 100 counties, 78 of which are rural and encompass 3.7 million rural residents; 84 percent of North Carolina municipalities have fewer than 10,000 residents; and 58 percent of North Carolina municipalities have fewer than 2,500 residents; and 

Whereas, strong and reliable infrastructure – including safe rural roads and bridges, broadband, clean drinking water and wastewater systems, energy, and community facilities – is essential to ensuring economic opportunity and quality of life in rural North Carolina; and 

Whereas, our rural communities deserve the opportunities and support to educate their children, live better and healthier lives, launch their small business dreams, and live in safe, supportive, and welcoming communities; and 

Whereas, many rural areas face unique challenges such as aging water systems, limited internet access, and transportation barriers that require targeted investment and strategic, coordinated policy efforts to overcome; and 

Whereas, the State of North Carolina is committed to supporting partnerships among federal, state, and local governments and agencies, as well as private and nonprofit organizations, to deliver sustainable infrastructure improvements in every rural county; and 

Whereas, investing in rural infrastructure is an investment in North Carolina’s shared future – ensuring that every resident, rural or otherwise, has the resources, tools, and connections needed to thrive in our beloved state;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim March 26 – 27, 2026, as “Rural Infrastructure Week” in North Carolina and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this second day of March in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.