News

NEW YORK, NY March 09, 2005 —New York's roads and bridges are in a sorry state of repairs and, according to a new study, it's costing motorists. WNYC's Beth Fertig has more.

More than two thirds of the State's major roads are in poor or mediocre condition, according to the American Society of Civil Engineers. A similar percent are considered congested.

The report estimates the average driver spends $285 per year on vehicle repairs related to potholes and wear and tear on engines. And congestion is costing drivers in the New York City area an average of almost $900 a year in excess fuel and lost time.

The report also says 38 percent of the state's bridges are structurally deficient or functionally obsolete. Meanwhile, Albany leaders are still wrangling over how much money to spend on mass transit and roads.