Rough Roads Are Costing PA Residents

June 2009

The poor condition of Pennsylvania roads is costing motorists up to $500 extra annually, according to a report issued by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials and TRIP, a transportation research group.

The report examined government statistics of road conditions in all 50 states and vehicle-operating costs for each state and for urban areas. In Pittsburgh, 58 percent of roads were in poor or mediocre condition, costing residents an average $430 per person each year.

On a national scale, 72 percent of the Interstate Highway System is in good condition. However, road quality deteriorates due to age, weather conditions, and increased traffic, so officials have said that if money isn't invested into maintaining roads now, it will only cost citizens more in the long run.