CLEVELAND – Cleveland and Akron roads are among some of the worst in the country, according to a report released Thursday by a national transportation research group.
TRIP found in the Cleveland-Akron area “more than three-quarters of major urban roads are deteriorated, with 52 percent in poor condition and 25 percent in mediocre condition.”
The study examines pavement conditions of interstates, freeways and major arteries.
However, the report explains “state-maintained roads are generally in better condition, with 98 percent of urban and rural state-maintained roads in acceptable condition.”
According to USA Today, the report will be used to urge Congress to approve a new highway bill to replace the one expiring July 31.TRIP estimates that bad roads cost Cleveland drivers $845 a year and Akron drivers $797 annually.
Matt Bruning, press secretary for the Ohio Department of Transportation, released the following statement in response to the newly released report:
“Over the last four years, the Ohio Dept. of Transportation has invested $8 billion into the state and federal transportation system and given over $1 billion to local governments to help them maintain and expand their streets and bridges. Approximately 93 percent of ODOT’s budget goes toward maintaining the existing transportation network. We certainly encourage Congress to pass a long-term funding bill so we can better plan for the future.”