Poor roads cost Texans money – and sometimes their lives. Yet transportation infrastructure spending positively affects local and state economies by connecting businesses, customers, goods and services more efficiently, which in turn enhances business expansion and road safety.
In the latest issue of Fiscal Notes, the Comptroller’s office continues its examination of Texas road finance by turning to the economic impact of road construction. A Comptroller study indicates that $25 million in road spending in urban areas can add as much as $43 billion to the state economy over time.
“In addition to immediate employment in construction and related industries, road projects yield long-term benefits by improving our productivity and economic competitiveness,” Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar said.
Fiscal Notes is an extension of the Comptroller’s constitutional responsibilities to monitor the state’s economy and estimate state government revenues. It has been published periodically since 1975, featuring in-depth analysis concerning state finances and original research by subject-matter experts in the Comptroller’s office.
Published monthly, Fiscal Notes is online at comptroller.texas.gov/fiscalnotes, and can also be received by subscribing via the Comptroller’s website.