Transportation Challenges

California is facing a transportation crisis. Population growth and increases in vehicle travel are stressing California’s roads, highways, bridges and public transit—all of which are in major need of upgrades and expansions.Our deteriorating transportation system threatens our economy, hurts the environment and negatively affects how we live.

California has the second highest share of roads in poor condition in the nation—costing taxpayers a total of $13.5 billion statewide or nearly $600 per driver in vehicle maintenance fees. Our state has six of the top 10 cities with the worst road conditions and nearly a third of our bridges and overpasses do not meet design standards or show signs of deterioration. Further aggravating the situation is the growth in the number of drivers on the road, a trend that is expected to continue.

More drivers and higher rates of vehicle travel are creating greater traffic congestion around the state. Nearly 70 percent of California’s urban roads and highways are congested, causing significant delays in traffic and public safety issues. Vehicle travel in the state is expected to increase, further worsening congestion on our roadways. The cost to Californians: an estimated $18.7 billion annually in lost time and fuel.

Fixing the problem is not easy. The Golden State is facing a funding shortfall to the tune of $10.9 billion annually, which impedes our ability to make much needed improvements and expand our roads, bridges and public transportation systems. We need to Rebuild California or the public will bear the burden of reduced public safety, longer commute times, loss of productivity and economic activity, and higher costs for years to come.