Georgia’s highway system has been ranked second in the nation for overall cost-effectiveness and condition, according to an April 2 announcement from the Georgia Department of Transportation. The ranking comes from the Reason Foundation’s 29th Annual Highway Report, which evaluates all 50 states using metrics such as traffic fatalities, pavement condition, congestion, structurally deficient bridges, and overall spending.
This high ranking is significant as it highlights Georgia’s commitment to maintaining a safe and efficient transportation network while making effective use of available resources. The Reason Foundation compared each state’s performance with its budgets, system sizes, traffic levels, and geography.
“The department takes great pride in the state’s highway system being among the best in the nation, and this ranking reflects the hard work and dedication of our employees,” said Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell R. McMurry, P.E. “However, we recognize that the work is never truly finished and remain committed to providing a safe, efficient, and innovative transportation network for the people of Georgia.”
In this year’s report from Reason Foundation, Georgia rose four spots to achieve its current position. The report noted that Georgia performed particularly well in arterial pavement condition, bridge quality, and spending efficiency.
The Georgia Department of Transportation manages what it describes as the tenth largest transportation network in the United States. Its responsibilities include planning, constructing, and maintaining roads as well as supporting intermodal transportation options such as waterways, public transit systems, railroads and aviation services.
Looking ahead, officials say they remain focused on innovation and sustainability within their operations while continuing efforts to improve mobility across all modes of travel.
