What happened: Officials with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) and Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) warned that dwindling revenue could impact their ability to maintain and improve transportation infrastructure.
Why it matters: WSDOT estimates an $11 billion transportation funding shortfall, saying the state’s transportation system is on a “glide path to failure.” The agency says 52 percent of pavement miles are due or past-due for preservation; 52 bridges need replacement or rehabilitation with only four being replaced currently; and significant needs are found in the state’s ferry and rail systems.
Meanwhile, ODOT cautioned it may struggle with winter road operations due to a budget shortfall that impacts staffing and logistics. ODOT spokesman Don Hamilton attributed the funding challenges to falling gas tax revenues.
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