Georgia's transportation infrastructure ranks second best among U.S. states, according to a report published by MSN Money.
In the report, titled "States That Are Falling Apart," Georgia ranks No. 49 overall, from best (No. 50, Florida) to worst (No. 1, Rhode Island) based on upkeep, maintenance and highway expenses per driver.
In the category of roads in poor condition, Georgia ranks fifth lowest in the nation at 1.9 percent. In the deficient bridges category, it ranks seventh lowest at 4.7 percent, and in the category of dams at high hazard risk, it ranks 15th lowest at 11 percent, according to statistics compiled by the organization.
Another factor that contributed to Georgia's ranking was the state's highway spending per driver, which totaled $254 — the third lowest amount among all 50 states.
"In terms of transportation infrastructure, we aim to be the best in the nation," said Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell R. McMurry. "Thanks to funding levels more consistent with our needs in recent years, Georgia has made significant investments to upgrade and maintain our transportation network. With ongoing maintenance needs and Georgia's booming population, we must work hard to retain these impressive rankings. Given the resources, GDOT will continue to make strides in offering the smartest and most effective transportation solutions for our residents."
Projects currently in development or under construction to improve the functionality and safety of Georgia interstates, roads and bridges include Transform 285/400, Northwest Corridor Express Lanes and the Major Mobility Investment Program (MMIP), which consists of 11 major projects — all of which will be under contract, in construction or open to traffic by 2026.
