摘要: |
Road infrastructure is a key component of any regions transportation system. It allows unprecedented levels of mobility, accessibility, and economic growth. On the other hand, the cost associated with inadequate road infrastructure can amount to billions of dollars. In the U.S., the largest revenue source for the funding of transportation infrastructure is the federal and state fuel taxes. These taxes were conceived in the 1950s as an indirect charge to recover the costs of vehicle travel on the U.S. highway system. However, this tax has not increased with the inflation rate and given increasing maintenance and construction costs, and more fuel efficient vehicles, the vehicle per mile tax has become inadequate. State budget shortfalls affect the ability to maintain existing facilities properly and may lead to delayed maintenance which in turn may reduce the lifespan of roads, bridges, ports, and other infrastructures. |