All Mainers, from Caribou to Kittery, Jackman to Calais, know the frustration of driving on roads that are all stove up. The potholes and frost heaves that emerge every year cause more than just an uncomfortable, bumpy ride, they can cause serious damage to our vehicles, an average of $609 in maintenance per year. Repair shops all around the state see blown tires, as well as steering and suspension issues caused by our rough roads.

The situation with our bridges isn’t any better. In fact, it might be worse; 15% are rated in poor or structurally deficient condition, the fourth highest in the nation, not a point of pride. The fact is, many of our roads and bridges are years, if not decades past when they should have been replaced. Maintenance has been deferred by the Maine Department of Transportation due to a lack of an adequate, dedicated funding source. Bonding alone has not been enough to keep up and the longer we wait to repair them, the more expensive it’s going to get.

Increased transportation funding is necessary if we want to keep our roads safe and our cars in one piece. Maine is a rural state. Many Mainers travel great distances to go to work, school or see the doctor. Our communities need quality roads and bridges and it’s time we prioritize making these much-needed repairs.

Glenn Adams

Oakland