The latest quarterly National Highway Construction Cost Index (NHCCI) from the Federal Highway Administration includes a major revision, the first since its creation 10 years ago. The new measure  reflects that highway construction costs have increased by 67 percent  compared to 2003. During the same period, the cost of asphalt spiked 107 percent, concrete increased 61 percent, and metal jumped 45 percent. California’s composite construction index grew the most— 143 percent— followed by Texas at 122 percent.  Read More>>

Missouri state Representative Jeff Messenger (R-130) told constituents that interstate tolls and user fees will likely have to increase to catch up with inflation. Most of the state’s transportation-related taxes and fees haven’t been adjusted in 30 years, as Missouri’s road network continued to expand.  Read More>>

Wisconsin’s lack of an approved  state budget is negatively impacting transportation projects and jobs. Construction bids are indefinitely postponed. The state’s Joint Finance Committee hasn’t met  since June 15, when Republican infighting prevented the legislature from reaching a budget deal by the  July 1 deadline. Read More>>

Also in Wisconsin, the state Department of Transportation has delayed the release of funding estimates and repair costs. First requested in January, these estimates are crucial when prioritizing upcoming projects. They are now expected in late August. Read More>>

Construction on New Mexico Highway 575, known as Navajo Dam Road, is postponed until fiscal year 2023 due to ongoing funding struggles. New Mexico Department of Transportation spokeswoman Rosanne Rodriguez  said the state hopes to qualify for new federal funds. Read More>>

Many counties in North Dakota don’t have enough funding for road investments and maintenance, a new study finds. For example, Walsh County needs an estimated $30 million for road work, yet  budgets only $1.6 million, about 5 percent of that amount. Read More>>

Nearly 80 percent of respondents to a  Minnesota poll  believe the state, not the counties, should be responsible for transportation costs. Minnesota’s transportation funding comes from a variety of sources, at the county, state, and federal levels. However, recent county sales tax measures have sparked questions over who should bear the brunt of the costs. Read More>>

Mississippi will save $3.8 million by refinancing  state transportation department bonds. The bonds, designated for an Interstate 69 project, were refunded with the hope of using the savings towards additional construction projects. The I-269 project is scheduled to finish in the fall of 2018. Read More>>

The North Carolina Chamber Foundation has produced an insert on the benefits of infrastructure investment. It includes discussions on a list of upcoming projects, the economic impact of airports, and the transportation needs of a growing population. The insert can be accessed here.

Katherine Jones, ARTBA Economics Intern, contributed to this report.