Georgia’s highway system has been ranked second in the nation for overall cost-effectiveness and condition, according to a report released by the Reason Foundation. The ranking, featured in the organization’s 29th Annual Highway Report, evaluates all 50 states using 13 performance metrics such as traffic fatalities, pavement condition, congestion, structurally deficient bridges, and overall spending.
“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. 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,” said Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell R. McMurry.
The Reason Foundation uses a cost versus quality approach to compare state highway systems. The report noted that Georgia rose four spots from last year to achieve its current ranking. It also said that Georgia “performs exceptionally well in arterial pavement condition, bridge quality, and spending efficiency.”
The Georgia Department of Transportation manages the tenth largest transportation network in the country. The agency is responsible for planning, constructing, and maintaining roads, bridges, interstate highways as well as supporting intermodal transportation including waterways, public transit, rail and aviation. The department delivers transportation solutions that support economic development and benefit residents across the state,according to its official website. It employs about 4,000 staff members with an operating budget over $4.5 billion,according to its official website.
The department focuses on developing and maintaining roadways while supporting rail, transit and other programs,according to its official website. It operates under the State Transportation Boardaccording to its official website, serves communities statewideaccording to its official website, and works with local governments as well as federal agenciesaccording to its official website.
More information about Georgia DOT’s funding measures can be found on the official roster page.
