Pittsburgh Roads Receive Poor Rating

March 2008

Many drivers who use Pittsburgh roadways will not be surprised by the findings of a survey conducted by The Road Information Program (TRIP). The highway research group announced that 28 percent of state-owned roads in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area received a “poor” rating.

Secondary roads are in the worst condition, the survey found. The problem, Pennsylvania state officials say, is a lack of funding. Federal transportation funding is inadequate, the costs of materials and repairs are rising, and traffic volumes in the Pittsburgh area are increasing, all leading to a shortage of funds.

Vehicle owners spend an average of $464 extra dollars a year on vehicle maintenance and fuel as a result of poor road conditions. TRIP classifies 19 percent of Pittsburgh area roads as “good” and 22 percent as “fair.” The report states that the highest-ranked PA roads are found in the Harrisburg metro area.