The dynamic growth of civilisation requires sufficient access to broadly defined infrastructure. The term stands for a collection of public service devices and installations that are indispensable for providing proper operation of national economy and society's existence [Krakowiak-Bal, 2004]. For centuries, infrastructure has been best developed in the places characterised by highest population density, i.e. mainly in urban areas. This tendency is still noticeable, however, the implemented programs and European Union funds ensure reducing disproportions between rural and urban areas. The main role in this process is occupied by the Rural Development Programme, which enables receiving external funding for the realisation of infrastructure investments most crucial for the region. According to Siemiński [1996], infrastructure, with regard to its scope, is categorised into three groups: utility infrastructure, social infrastructure and economic infrastructure. The present paper considers the issues of utility infrastructure. This type of infrastructure is characterised by unalterable location in an area, general accessibility, functionality and availability. It is considered to be linear, long-lasting, capital-intensive (requiring high investment and exploitation expenditures) indivisible, and its construction requires complex technique and technology. All branches of utility infrastructure (such as waterworks, sewage systems, roads, railroads, etc.) are closely connected with their ...
