How much does the road cost in the US?

The High Cost of Roads in the United States

Roads are a vital part of any modern society, providing essential transportation links for people and goods. However, building and maintaining roads can be a costly endeavor, especially in the United States.

Construction Costs

The cost of constructing a new road in the US varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of road, the terrain, and the materials used. However, a typical two-lane, 11-meter wide asphalt road costs around $2 million per kilometer to build. This includes the cost of grading the road, laying down the asphalt, and installing drainage systems.

Bridge Costs

Bridges are even more expensive to build than roads, due to the additional engineering and construction challenges involved. The cost of a new bridge can vary significantly depending on the size and complexity of the bridge, but a typical bridge can cost anywhere from $10 million to $100 million to build.

Maintenance Costs

Once a road or bridge has been built, it is important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and safety. Road maintenance costs include things like patching potholes, repaving the surface, and repairing drainage systems. The cost of maintaining a road or bridge can vary depending on the condition of the road or bridge, but it is typically around 1-2% of the original construction cost per year.

Financial Burden

The high cost of building and maintaining roads in the US places a significant financial burden on the government. In 2019, the federal government spent $119 billion on highways and roads, while state and local governments spent an additional $188 billion. This money comes from taxpayers, who ultimately bear the cost of building and maintaining our nation’s roads.

Conclusion

Roads are essential for our society, but they come at a high cost. The high cost of building and maintaining roads in the US places a significant financial burden on the government and taxpayers. It is important to be aware of these costs when making decisions about transportation policy.