Regional Forum in New Orleans.
Transportation needs far outweigh current investments.
In 20 years, the number of cars and trucks has increased more than 50 percent, but highway system size has increased only 3 percent. Without a preventive maintenance investment, roads will become a major problem. Eventually, all roads will be affected. The costs of owning and operating a vehicle will also rise as a result of damage caused by potholes, less efficient fuel consumption, more traffic congestion and higher insurance premiums. Shipping goods will also become less efficient, thus weakening trade competitiveness and increasing prices to cover manufacturer losses.