All of the Roads Are Bad? Driving America’s Rough Ride

America’s Crumbling Roads: A Rough Ride Ahead

Imagine navigating a once-smooth highway, now riddled with potholes that threaten to swallow your tires whole. This isn’t a scene from a dystopian movie; it’s the reality for countless Americans navigating our nation’s increasingly deteriorating road conditions.

The consequences are far-reaching, impacting not only our vehicles but also our safety, economy, and overall quality of life.

The Pothole Plague and Beyond

The most visible sign of our road woes is the humble pothole. They are not just a nuisance; they represent a deeper systemic failure.

But potholes are just the tip of the iceberg.

Traffic congestion, a constant source of frustration for commuters, is exacerbated by poorly maintained roads.

This congestion translates into lost productivity, wasted fuel, and increased stress levels.

Furthermore, the erosion of our road infrastructure poses significant safety concerns.

A Question of Safety

Worn-out surfaces, inadequate signage, and structural deficiencies all contribute to a heightened risk of accidents and injuries.

The safety implications alone demand immediate attention.

Beyond immediate hazards, the long-term consequences of neglecting our roads are even more dire.

Charting a Course for Repair

This article serves as an exploration of the multifaceted challenges plaguing America’s road infrastructure. We will delve into the various factors contributing to these conditions and seek viable, sustainable solutions.

From funding mechanisms to innovative materials and technologies, we will examine the pathways toward a smoother, safer, and more efficient transportation network for all Americans.

The goal is to understand the problem deeply, and explore solutions broadly.

Identifying Key Players: Entities Impacted by Road Quality

Understanding the intricacies of America’s road infrastructure crisis requires a comprehensive view, one that acknowledges the diverse range of entities deeply intertwined with the issue.
From the federal agencies shaping policy to the individual drivers navigating pothole-ridden streets, a multitude of stakeholders are affected by—and, in turn, influence—the quality of our roads.

Recognizing these key players and their respective roles is crucial for developing effective and sustainable solutions.
It allows us to appreciate the systemic nature of the problem and the interconnectedness of its various components.

The Web of Influence: Why Identifying Entities Matters

Imagine a complex ecosystem.
The health of each organism is linked to the well-being of the entire system.
Similarly, the state of our roads affects a wide range of entities, each with its own set of concerns and priorities.

Considering these diverse perspectives allows for a more holistic understanding of the challenges we face.
It also enables us to identify potential points of collaboration and leverage the collective resources of all stakeholders.
From the perspective of a government official, every group and role has to be considered.

The Key Entities: A Comprehensive Overview

Here’s a breakdown of the relevant entities involved in, affected by, and capable of influencing the quality of America’s roads:

• Road Infrastructure: The fundamental physical components of the road network are central to this crisis. Without these roads, our daily lives would be far more difficult.
• Potholes: A direct, visible indicator of road deterioration, potholes are a serious hazard to drivers and a source of frustration and financial burden.
• Traffic Congestion: Often exacerbated by inadequate or poorly maintained roads, traffic congestion leads to lost productivity, wasted fuel, and increased stress.
• Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): As the federal agency responsible for highway planning and funding, the FHWA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of our roads.
• American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE): This organization provides invaluable infrastructure ratings and assessments, offering a professional evaluation of the condition of our roads.
• Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA): This landmark federal law provides significant funding for infrastructure improvements, offering a potential lifeline for our crumbling roads.
• Department of Transportation (DOT): The DOT serves as the overarching federal department overseeing transportation policies, guiding the direction of infrastructure development and maintenance.
• State Departments of Transportation (State DOTs): At the state level, these agencies are directly responsible for road maintenance and construction, implementing policies and managing projects on the ground.
• Gas Tax: A traditional and common source of funding for road maintenance, the gas tax is a vital component of the financial equation for infrastructure upkeep.
• Vehicle Maintenance Costs: Poor road conditions lead to increased expenses for drivers, including tire damage, suspension repairs, and other vehicle-related issues.
• Driver Safety: Road hazards, such as potholes and deteriorated surfaces, pose a significant risk to driver safety, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.
• Accident Rates: As a measurable outcome of unsafe road conditions, accident rates provide a stark reminder of the human cost of neglecting our road infrastructure.
• Rural Roads: Maintaining roads in less populated areas presents unique challenges, often due to limited resources and longer distances.
• Urban Roads: High-traffic volume and dense populations create specific problems for urban roads, requiring innovative solutions to manage congestion and maintain infrastructure.
• Aging Infrastructure: The increasing need for repair and replacement of older roads is a major driver of the current crisis, as infrastructure exceeds its design lifespan.
• Funding: The availability of financial resources is a critical factor in addressing road maintenance and improvement, determining the scope and pace of necessary projects.
• Road Design: How well the road supports its current use is essential for making sure the road is safe and easy for drivers to traverse.
• Road Maintenance: How the road is cared for is critical in ensuring roads are in the best state to make for the best possible outcome.
• Road Safety: How to make the road safer is paramount in the long-term goal to reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

By carefully examining the roles and responsibilities of these entities, we can begin to develop a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities in addressing America’s road infrastructure crisis.

The Closeness Connection: Ranking Entities by Relevance

Having established the key entities impacted by America’s road quality, it becomes crucial to differentiate their degree of influence and direct impact. Not all entities are affected equally, nor do they all wield the same power to effect change.

Therefore, we need a system to prioritize our focus. This section introduces a ranking system based on "closeness"—how directly and significantly each entity is connected to the core problem of deteriorating roads.

Establishing the Closeness Metric

The rationale behind this ranking is simple: by identifying the entities most intimately tied to the problem, we can better target our resources and efforts.

This "closeness" reflects both the degree to which an entity is affected by poor road conditions and its capacity to influence those conditions.

The Ranking Scale: 1 to 10

To quantify this "closeness," we employ a rating scale from 1 to 10:

• 1-3 (Low Closeness): Entities indirectly affected or with minimal influence. These might include tangential industries or broad societal trends.

• 4-6 (Moderate Closeness): Entities with a noticeable impact or influence, but not directly at the forefront of the issue.

• 7-10 (High Closeness): Entities directly affected by road conditions and/or possessing significant power to improve them. These are the key players we will focus on.

High-Relevance Entities: Ratings 7-10

Let’s examine the entities that score highest on our "closeness" scale, ranging from 7 to 10. These entities represent the most critical leverage points for addressing America’s road infrastructure crisis.

Road Infrastructure (10)

Unsurprisingly, road infrastructure itself receives the highest rating. The physical condition of roads – the presence of cracks, the smoothness of the surface, the overall structural integrity – is the central issue. Without quality roads, everything else crumbles.

Potholes (10)

Potholes, as a highly visible symptom of road decay, also receive a score of 10. They are a direct consequence of infrastructure neglect and pose an immediate hazard to drivers. Effectively eliminating potholes is equivalent to fixing the core issue.

Traffic Congestion (9)

Traffic congestion earns a rating of 9 due to its strong link to road quality and maintenance. Poor road conditions exacerbate congestion, leading to delays and economic losses.

Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) (9)

The FHWA, with its broad mandate for highway planning and funding, scores a 9. This federal agency has the power to shape national road infrastructure policy and allocate resources to critical projects.

Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) (9)

The IIJA also earns a 9. It represents a major federal commitment to infrastructure improvements, with substantial funding allocated to road projects. Its successful implementation is vital.

Aging Infrastructure (9)

Aging infrastructure receives a 9 due to its significant contribution to road deterioration. The increasing need to repair and replace aging roads has a deep impact.

Road Maintenance (9)

Road maintenance receives a 9 because it directly addresses the repair of roads. Effective maintenance is essential to prevent further deterioration and maintain quality.

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) (8)

ASCE gets a score of 8, reflecting its role in assessing and reporting on infrastructure conditions. Their assessments can influence public opinion and policy decisions.

Department of Transportation (DOT) (8)

The DOT, overseeing national transportation policies, receives an 8. Its policies and priorities have a significant impact on road infrastructure.

State Departments of Transportation (State DOTs) (8)

State DOTs, responsible for road maintenance at the state level, also score an 8. They are crucial in implementing federal policies and managing road projects within their respective states.

Vehicle Maintenance Costs (8)

Vehicle maintenance costs, a direct economic impact of bad roads on drivers, score an 8. The expenses incurred due to tire damage, suspension repairs, and other vehicle problems are a tangible consequence of poor road conditions.

Driver Safety (8)

Driver safety is also rated 8. Poor road conditions directly compromise driver safety, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Road safety (8)

Road safety scores an 8 due to its integral role to focus on present issues. Better safety standards need to be implemented for drivers.

Funding (8)

Funding is a critical requirement for addressing road infrastructure issues. Without funds, the infrastructure cannot be improved and is therefore, rated an 8.

Accident Rates (7)

Accident rates, as a measurable outcome of unsafe road conditions, earn a 7. Higher accident rates directly correlate with poor road quality.

Rural Roads (7)

Rural roads receive a 7, acknowledging the specific challenges related to maintaining roads in less populated areas. These roads often face neglect and require targeted attention.

Urban Roads (7)

Urban roads, with their unique problems associated with high-traffic volume and dense populations, also score a 7. They require specific strategies to address congestion and maintenance challenges.

Gas Tax (7)

Gas tax, as a common source of funding for road maintenance, receives a 7. However, its effectiveness is declining due to fuel efficiency and alternative fuel vehicles.

Road Design (7)

Road design is rated 7 for its crucial role in traffic management. Effective design can mitigate congestion and improve safety.

By focusing on these high-relevance entities, we can develop more effective strategies for addressing the complex challenges facing America’s road infrastructure.

The preceding analysis highlights the critical entities most intertwined with America’s road infrastructure woes. These are the actors and elements closest to the problem, the ones most directly impacted and possessing the greatest potential for driving positive change. But identifying who is affected is only the first step. To truly address the crisis, we must understand why our roads are in such a state of disrepair in the first place.

Root Causes: Why Are America’s Roads in Such Disrepair?

The crumbling infrastructure beneath our tires isn’t a sudden phenomenon; it’s the culmination of decades of systemic issues. To effectively pave the way for improvement, we must first understand the core reasons for this decline in road quality.

The Funding Fiasco: A Chronic Shortage

One of the most persistent and debilitating factors is insufficient funding and inadequate budget allocation. For years, investment in road maintenance and repair has lagged behind the actual needs, creating a widening gap between available resources and the ever-increasing demands of an aging infrastructure.

Gas tax revenues, a traditional source of funding, have stagnated due to increased fuel efficiency and the rise of electric vehicles. Meanwhile, construction costs continue to rise, further exacerbating the funding shortfall.

This chronic underfunding leads to a reactive, rather than proactive, approach to road maintenance, where repairs are often delayed until problems become severe and more costly to fix.

The Age of Decaying Infrastructure

America’s road network, much of which was built during the mid-20th century, is now exceeding its original design lifespan. These roads were not engineered to withstand the current volume of traffic, the increased weight of commercial vehicles, or the changing climate conditions they now face.

The natural aging process, combined with inadequate maintenance, leads to a gradual deterioration of the road surface, base, and supporting structures. This results in potholes, cracks, and other forms of damage that compromise safety and ride quality.

The Weight of the World: Increased Traffic and Load

The sheer volume of traffic and the increasing weight of vehicles take a significant toll on our roads. As the population grows and commerce expands, roads are subjected to greater stress and wear and tear.

Heavier trucks, in particular, exert tremendous force on the road surface, accelerating the rate of deterioration. This is especially true on highways and major thoroughfares that serve as critical transportation corridors.

Climate Change: An Accelerating Threat

Climate change impacts, including extreme weather events and freeze-thaw cycles, are further compounding the problem. More frequent and intense storms can cause flooding and erosion, damaging road surfaces and weakening supporting structures.

Freeze-thaw cycles, common in many parts of the country, cause water to seep into cracks in the pavement, freeze, and expand, widening the cracks and leading to potholes. These climate-related impacts are only expected to worsen in the coming years, further challenging our ability to maintain a safe and reliable road network.

The Procrastination Penalty: Delayed Maintenance

Delayed or inadequate maintenance schedules are a critical contributor to road deterioration. Postponing necessary repairs or preventative maintenance allows minor problems to escalate into major, more expensive issues.

This reactive approach, driven by budget constraints and competing priorities, ultimately costs more in the long run, as the total cost of repairing a severely deteriorated road is significantly higher than the cost of routine maintenance.

Furthermore, delayed maintenance disrupts traffic flow, increases congestion, and poses safety risks to drivers.

The preceding analysis highlights the critical entities most intertwined with America’s road infrastructure woes. These are the actors and elements closest to the problem, the ones most directly impacted and possessing the greatest potential for driving positive change. But identifying who is affected is only the first step. To truly address the crisis, we must understand why our roads are in such a state of disrepair in the first place.

Impact Assessment: The Consequences of Neglecting Road Infrastructure

The repercussions of neglecting our nation’s roads extend far beyond mere inconvenience. They ripple through our economy, endanger our safety, and diminish our overall quality of life. Years of deferred maintenance and inadequate investment have led to a situation where the consequences are now impossible to ignore. Understanding the true cost of inaction is essential to galvanize support for meaningful change.

Compromised Driver Safety: A Road to Increased Risk

The most immediate and alarming impact of deteriorating roads is the increased risk to driver safety. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage create hazardous conditions that contribute to accidents and injuries.

These dangers are not abstract; they translate to real-world consequences for countless individuals and families.

Worn or absent lane markings make navigation difficult, especially at night or in adverse weather, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

In short, neglected roads directly correlate to heightened accident rates and, tragically, preventable loss of life.

The Economic Burden: Vehicle Damage and Delays

Beyond the immediate dangers, poor road conditions inflict a substantial economic burden on individuals and businesses alike.

The constant pounding on damaged roads leads to accelerated wear and tear on vehicles, resulting in frequent and costly repairs.

Tires are more prone to punctures and blowouts. Suspension systems suffer under the constant stress.

Alignments are thrown off, leading to uneven tire wear and reduced fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, traffic congestion, often exacerbated by poor road maintenance, results in significant productivity losses.

Commuters spend countless hours stuck in traffic, wasting valuable time and fuel.

Businesses face increased transportation costs and delays in delivering goods and services, impacting the economy as a whole.

A Public Safety Crisis: Hampered Emergency Response

The impact of poor road conditions extends beyond individual inconvenience and economic costs; it also poses a significant threat to public safety.

Deteriorating roads can significantly impede emergency response times, potentially having life-or-death consequences.

Ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles face delays navigating pothole-ridden streets and congested roadways.

Every minute lost can be critical in emergency situations, and the condition of our roads directly affects the ability of first responders to reach those in need in a timely manner.

This is not merely an inconvenience; it is a matter of public safety and well-being.

Quality of Life: Stress and Frustration on the Rise

Finally, the cumulative effect of poor road conditions takes a toll on the overall quality of life.

The daily frustrations of navigating pothole-filled streets and enduring traffic congestion contribute to increased stress levels and decreased mental well-being.

Commuting becomes a daily ordeal, adding to the pressures of work and family life.

The constant jarring and bumping can be physically uncomfortable, especially for those with back problems or other health conditions.

The degraded state of our roads reflects a broader sense of neglect and decline, impacting community pride and overall quality of life for all.

The repercussions of neglecting our nation’s roads extend far beyond mere inconvenience. They ripple through our economy, endanger our safety, and diminish our overall quality of life. Years of deferred maintenance and inadequate investment have led to a situation where the consequences are now impossible to ignore. Understanding the true cost of inaction is essential to galvanize support for meaningful change. It’s no longer sufficient to simply bemoan the state of disrepair. We must proactively seek and implement effective solutions.

Solutions and Strategies: Paving the Way for Improvement

The road ahead demands a multifaceted approach. Successfully addressing America’s road infrastructure crisis requires a combination of increased investment, innovative funding models, advanced technologies, and strategic planning. These elements must work in concert to create a resilient and sustainable transportation network.

Prioritizing Investment in Maintenance and Repair

A foundational step towards improving road conditions is a significant and sustained increase in funding dedicated specifically to road maintenance and repair. Preventative maintenance, while seemingly less urgent than reactive repairs, is far more cost-effective in the long run. By addressing minor issues before they escalate, we can extend the lifespan of existing roads and avoid more expensive reconstruction projects.

This requires a shift in mindset, recognizing that consistent upkeep is not an expense, but rather an investment that yields substantial returns in terms of safety, economic productivity, and reduced long-term costs.

Innovative Funding Mechanisms

Relying solely on traditional funding sources, such as the gas tax, is no longer sufficient to meet the growing demands of our aging infrastructure. We must explore and implement innovative funding mechanisms to supplement existing revenue streams.

Toll Roads and Infrastructure Banks

Toll roads, while often unpopular, can provide a dedicated revenue stream for road maintenance and improvements in high-traffic areas. Careful consideration must be given to equity concerns, ensuring that toll roads do not disproportionately burden low-income communities.

Infrastructure banks, both at the state and national level, can leverage public and private investment to finance large-scale transportation projects. These banks can provide loans, loan guarantees, and other forms of financial assistance to make critical projects viable.

Advanced Construction Materials and Techniques

The materials and methods used to construct and maintain roads have a direct impact on their durability and longevity. Investing in research and development of advanced construction materials, such as durable asphalt and concrete mixes, can significantly extend the lifespan of roads and reduce the frequency of repairs.

Techniques like full-depth reclamation, which involves recycling existing pavement materials, can also be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional reconstruction methods. These techniques are more durable in the long run.

Strategic Infrastructure Planning and Prioritization

Effective infrastructure planning requires a comprehensive assessment of current and future needs, considering factors such as traffic volume, population growth, and economic development. Prioritizing projects based on their potential impact on safety, congestion, and economic productivity ensures that limited resources are allocated effectively.

This also entails a shift towards a more proactive and data-driven approach, using technology to monitor road conditions, predict maintenance needs, and optimize resource allocation.

Leveraging Technology for Road Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance

Technology offers powerful tools for monitoring road conditions and predicting maintenance needs. Sensors embedded in roads can collect data on pavement stress, temperature, and traffic volume, providing valuable insights into the health of our infrastructure.

Predictive maintenance algorithms can analyze this data to identify potential problems before they become critical, allowing transportation agencies to schedule repairs proactively and avoid costly emergency interventions. Drones are a great cost effective tool to do this.

Maximizing IIJA Funding Opportunities

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) represents a historic opportunity to address the nation’s infrastructure needs. However, simply receiving funding is not enough. Transportation agencies must develop well-defined project proposals and implement projects efficiently and effectively to maximize the benefits of this investment.

This requires collaboration between federal, state, and local governments, as well as engagement with private sector partners. It also requires a commitment to transparency and accountability to ensure that funds are used wisely and projects are completed on time and within budget.

The road ahead demands a multifaceted approach. Successfully addressing America’s road infrastructure crisis requires a combination of increased investment, innovative funding models, advanced technologies, and strategic planning. These elements must work in concert to create a resilient and sustainable transportation network.

Now, with potential solutions in sight, it’s crucial to examine who will drive these changes. Improving America’s roads isn’t the responsibility of one entity alone. It requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, each playing a vital role in ensuring safer and more efficient roadways for all.

The Role of Key Players: Collaboration for Change

Improving America’s crumbling road infrastructure demands a collaborative approach. No single entity can shoulder the burden alone. Real progress requires a coordinated effort where each stakeholder understands their role and actively contributes to the solution. From federal agencies to individual citizens, the collective commitment is essential for paving the way for lasting change.

Federal Agencies: Setting the Course

Federal agencies such as the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) play a pivotal role in shaping national transportation policy and allocating resources.

The FHWA is responsible for providing financial and technical assistance to state and local governments for highway planning, construction, and maintenance.

The DOT oversees all aspects of transportation, ensuring safety, efficiency, and accessibility.

These agencies must prioritize infrastructure investment and promote innovative solutions that address the root causes of road deterioration. They should offer guidance and support, setting the direction and ensuring resources reach the areas most in need.

State DOTs: Implementing the Vision

State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) are at the forefront of road maintenance and construction at the state level.

They are responsible for planning, designing, building, and maintaining state highways and bridges.

State DOTs must effectively manage resources, prioritize projects based on need, and implement best practices for road construction and maintenance.

Collaboration and information sharing among State DOTs can enable knowledge transfer and accelerate the adoption of effective road management practices.

Local Governments: Addressing Community Needs

Local governments play a critical role in maintaining local roads and streets.

They are responsible for identifying local transportation needs, prioritizing projects, and allocating resources effectively.

Local governments often face unique challenges, such as limited funding and competing priorities.

Effective collaboration between local governments and State DOTs is essential to ensure that local road needs are addressed within the broader transportation network.

Construction Companies: Building and Maintaining

Construction companies are essential partners in road construction and maintenance projects. They are responsible for executing projects efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards.

Adopting innovative construction techniques and materials can improve road durability and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Fair and transparent bidding processes are essential to ensure that construction companies are held accountable for delivering quality work on time and within budget.

Engineering Firms: Designing for the Future

Engineering firms play a crucial role in designing and planning road infrastructure projects.

They provide expertise in areas such as traffic engineering, pavement design, and structural analysis.

Engineering firms can help to develop sustainable and resilient road designs that meet the needs of communities while minimizing environmental impact.

They are critical partners in planning, designing, and improving road systems.

The General Public: Voices for Change

The general public has a significant role to play in improving road conditions.

Citizens can advocate for increased infrastructure investment, report road hazards, and participate in transportation planning processes.

Reporting potholes and other road hazards can help local authorities identify and address problems promptly.

Public engagement in transportation planning can ensure that projects reflect community needs and priorities.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future for America’s Roads

The road ahead demands a multifaceted approach. Successfully addressing America’s road infrastructure crisis requires a combination of increased investment, innovative funding models, advanced technologies, and strategic planning.

These elements must work in concert to create a resilient and sustainable transportation network.

Now, with potential solutions in sight, it’s crucial to examine who will drive these changes. Improving America’s roads isn’t the responsibility of one entity alone. It requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, each playing a vital role in ensuring safer and more efficient roadways for all.

The Road to Resilience: Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities

Addressing America’s crumbling road infrastructure is a marathon, not a sprint. The challenges are significant, ranging from limited funding and aging infrastructure to the increasing impact of climate change.

However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and progress. By embracing a forward-thinking approach, we can pave the way for a sustainable future for our nation’s roads.

The Imperative of Long-Term Thinking

One of the most critical shifts needed is a move away from short-term fixes and toward long-term, sustainable strategies. Patching potholes may provide temporary relief, but it does not address the underlying issues that cause road deterioration.

A sustainable approach requires a holistic view that considers the entire lifecycle of road infrastructure, from design and construction to maintenance and eventual replacement. This includes:

• Investing in durable materials and construction techniques.
• Implementing proactive maintenance schedules.
• Adopting innovative technologies for road monitoring and management.

The Pillars of a Sustainable Road Network

Building a sustainable road network rests on several key pillars:

Investment and Funding

Adequate and consistent funding is the cornerstone of any successful infrastructure plan. This requires exploring diverse funding sources, including:

• Increased federal and state appropriations.
• Public-private partnerships.
• Dedicated infrastructure banks.
• Careful consideration of user fees like toll roads or mileage-based taxes.

Innovation and Technology

Embracing innovation and technology is essential for creating smarter, more efficient roads. This includes:

• Utilizing advanced materials that are more resistant to wear and tear.
• Employing sensors and data analytics to monitor road conditions and predict maintenance needs.
• Implementing intelligent transportation systems to optimize traffic flow and enhance safety.

Collaboration and Coordination

Improving America’s roads requires a collaborative effort involving all stakeholders.

This includes:

• Federal, state, and local governments working together to set priorities and allocate resources.
• Construction companies and engineering firms developing and implementing innovative solutions.
• The general public providing feedback and advocating for better roads.

A Call to Action: Paving the Way for a Better Tomorrow

The state of America’s roads is a reflection of our national priorities. By recognizing the critical importance of infrastructure and committing to a long-term, sustainable approach, we can create a transportation network that supports economic growth, enhances safety, and improves the quality of life for all Americans.

The time for action is now. By embracing collaboration, innovation, and proactive planning, we can pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for America’s roads.

So, the next time you’re dodging potholes and questioning the state of the asphalt, remember you’re not alone. Maybe, just maybe, enough noise will help change the perspective on, all of the roads are bad.. Safe travels (as safe as they can be!), and keep an eye out for those hidden craters!