Research Group Breaks Down Oklahoma Transportation By The Numbers

All around town drivers know the impact street and bridge damage has on their cars, and in the end, they are paying for it.

Drivers spend about $4.9 billion every year to fix car damage caused by bad roads, time wasted sitting in traffic and gasoline.

That's around $2,100 for every Tulsa driver and $2,200 for Oklahoma City drivers.

"We think this report helps show why it is absolutely critical that not only  the local government but state government stay the course in keeping that investment and support for transportation because it's going to save people money," explained Rocky Moretti of the transportation research group TRIP.

A new report by TRIP shows that 15 percent of Tulsa roads are in fair or good condition while 85 percent are in mediocre or poor condition.

ODOT says Oklahoma drivers have been supportive of all the road construction. But this report shows why that support is still necessary.

“If you look back maybe two or three reports ago with the TRIP organization we weren't looking good at all but we've made significant progress,” stated Mike Patterson of ODOT. “But we still have a long way to go."

ODOT has an eight-year construction plan to fix roads.

If funding and support continue as it is, ODOT hopes the improvements will move Oklahoma from the bottom to the top in road conditions.

"We want you to drive on a better highway while you drive so it doesn't damage your car as you drive," said Patterson.