Unable to Maintain the Ones They Have, Texas Just Keeps Building New Roads

The new report [PDF] from TRIP indicates that in 2010, "18 percent of Texas' urban roads were in 'poor' condition - in need of replacement - and 27 percent were in 'mediocre' condition - in need of resurfacing," writes Angie Schmitt. "Three percent of the state's bridges were 'structurally deficient' and another 15 percent were 'functionally obsolete.'"

Unfortunately, there's no appetite to tackle the problems, which "cost the average Texas driver $400 annually in repair costs," among state leaders. "'Because maintenance is just not sexy with the voters, public officials have decided to spend that money on expansions and new facilities, new capacity,' said David Crossley, of the smart growth think tank Houston Tomorrow."

"Texas faces a significant funding shortfall in the amount needed just to maintain the  transportation system in its current condition, let alone make needed expansions or undertake six new projects," study authors wrote. "Unless transportation funding is increased at the local, state and federal level, Texas' roads and bridges will become increasingly deteriorated and congested."