Proposed legislation in Oklahoma would cut the state Department of Transportation’s (ODOT) funding by almost $60 million per year, unless state revenue grows by at least 4 percent.
ODOT spokeswoman Terri Angier stated this would significantly delay transportation construction projects, including the agency’s plan to decrease the number of structurally deficient bridges within the state.
State transportation advocates urged lawmakers to consider the ramifications of cutting funding—including the impact to jobs, safety and commerce—and suggested the use of bonds to pay for road construction.
The bill – Senate Bill 1394—is currently with the Senate Appropriations Committee.