ODOT funding crisis could cost drivers

CLEVELAND - ODOT's funding crisis brought to light earlier this month continues to plague transportation officials as concerned drivers worry about footing the bill.

Now it appears ultimately drivers will pay the price; wasting more time and gas while facing hazardous driving conditions. That's contingent on an expected delay of hundreds of millions of dollars in road projects, much of that funding allocated to local projects including the Innerbelt expansion.

Why the sudden penny pinching? ODOT and the state say they have come to the reality that controlling spending is necessary.

Ohio Department of Transportation staffers this week recommended delaying dozens of projects, some by 11 years or more. While this could save millions in the short term, in the long run project costs could skyrocket as many current bids are based on cheaper estimates with construction demand low.

If ODOT's Transportation Review Advisory Council approves the delays this spring, they site a lack of revenue from the gas tax, the roadway operation's main source of funding. With the prevalence of fuel efficient vehicles and fewer drivers on the roads these days thanks to high unemployment, the state says today's crisis raises future financial concerns. In a statement to WEWS last week, ODOT says its urging law makers to seek alternates funding sources going forward.

ODOT Director Jerry Wray said Ohio can afford $100 million annually for major projects and will continue road maintenance.