Oregon roads face decline as maintenance challenges grow

SALEM, Ore. (KATU) — Oregon's highway system is grappling with deteriorating road conditions, as highlighted in the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) 2024 Pavement Condition Report.

The report reveals that while 87% of Oregon's 18,000 lane miles of pavement remain in fair or better condition, the percentage of roads classified as "good" has reached its lowest point since 2001.

The report indicates a significant decline in roads rated as "good" over the past decade.

Without adequate maintenance, many roads currently in fair condition risk deteriorating into poor condition within the next few years.

READ ALSO: Three Oregon bridges identified in NTSB's nationwide urgent safety assessment

ODOT aims to preserve highway conditions through regular maintenance, which becomes more complex and costly as roads age. Timely maintenance, such as resurfacing and crack sealing, is crucial to prevent further deterioration and extend the service life of roads.

In the past 20 years, ODOT has maintained a paving cycle of about 25 years. However, this is projected to increase dramatically to a 500-year cycle by 2030, limiting repair and preservation efforts, particularly on non-interstate routes.

"ODOT’s structural revenue issue is forcing the agency to dramatically pull back on our pavement maintenance and preservation efforts," said Delivery and Operations Administrator Amy Ramsdale. "Without additional revenue or revenue reform, the quality of Oregon’s highways will significantly decline in just a few years."

The report also notes that the number of roads in poor condition is rising, with more expected to deteriorate in the coming years.

Asphalt roads typically last between 10 and 30 years, while concrete roads last 40 to 60 years, depending on weather and maintenance. After 2027, non-interstate routes will receive little to no paving, affecting overall road quality.

The report emphasizes the importance of proactive maintenance to slow road deterioration and prevent more costly repairs.

While ODOT has met key performance goals for pavement condition in the past, the growing backlog of maintenance needs and the increasing age of the state's roads present significant challenges in maintaining these standards in the future.

For more detailed information, visit the 2024 Pavement Condition Report on ODOT’s website, or here for more information on the structural revenue issue facing ODOT and transportation agencies in the state.