Although President Obama has promised disadvantaged communities that he would spend billions of dollars on constructing roads, bridges, and other forms of infrastructure in their cities and towns, the counties that need the most financial help probably won’t be getting it.

Although the plan is supposed to be creating more jobs, many states intend to build these roads and bridges in communities that haven’t been hit as hard by the economic downturn. For example, Elk County, PA, isn’t receiving any federal aid despite its 13.8 percent unemployment rate. In contrast, Riley County, KS is set to benefit from $56 million in stimulus dollars despite its 3.4 percent unemployment rate.

When it comes down to the numbers, the government is set to spend 50% more per person in areas that have the smallest need than it will in communities where unemployment is the highest. It would appear that Obama’s promise to create jobs and increase government spending does not include the towns where it is most needed. Communities like Elk County will continue to suffer because they can’t afford the up-front costs that are needed to supplement the projects.

In a February speech, the President announced that government spending on transportation would mean money for “folks looking for work” and “folks who want to work.” While Congress required states to use some of the highway money in economically-disadvantaged areas, it didn’t impose sanctions on the states if they neglected to do so.

The $38 billion plan will eventually reach the communities that have been hit the hardest during the recession, but they will have to wait to receive any major financial benefits from the federal government. While the federal government spends more money in prosperous counties, the neediest people are still left waiting.