Resources Versus Results: Comparative Performance of State Highway Systems, 1984–1990

Abstract

This article compares the relative performance cfthe US. and the SO state highway systems against resottrces available, over the period [1984][1985][1986][1987][1988][1989][1990]. Data are collected on 13 measures cf revenues, expenditures, pavement condition, congestion, bridge condition, and accidents. Statistics are normalized to control the effects of size and ir^Jation. Each state's performance is then graded according to whether the state is making progress, holding steady, or losing ground relative to the national trends. Findings shew that the US. highway system is in good condition and is continuing to improve: even statistics on congestion are now beginmng to show improvement. Against this general improvement six states have been able to mainxcdn or inwove their highway systemswith considerably less resources per mile than other states. These states are New Mexico, South Dakota, Wyoming. Mississippi, South CaroUrta, and Arkansas. Each ofthese states seems to have a combination of geography, traffic, economic structure, and fiscal capability that results in particularly cost-effective highway systems. The findings suggest that simplistic explanations of performance based on location, urbanlrural distinctions, weather, climate, or taxes are inadequate: more research is needed to explain the causes ofthese differences.

Scale, quality and efficiency in road maintenance: Evidence for English local authorities

“…Similar discussion has been undertaken elsewhere in the road sector literature, for example by Goode et al (1993) for US State highway performance analysis of Krauss (1993) andLitman (2009) for Canadian highway analysis by Hartgen et al (2008). More generally issues of how to use performance measures are discussed across government departments (e.g.…”

“…cost per road km and congestion minutes per population. Studies include Pinkney and Marsden (2013), Hartgen et al (2008), Hartgen and Krauss (1993).…”

Identifying peer states for transportation system evaluation & policy analyses

“…In 1993, Hartgen et al began annually releasing ''Resources versus Results: Comparative Performance of State Highway Systems'' (Hartgen and Krauss 1993). These reports rank all fifty states based on five resource measures (e.g., administrative disbursements/ miles under state control) and six results measures (e.g., percentage of pavement miles in poor condition).…”

Pavement surface condition estimation based on geospatial modelling

“…An extensive and efficient road network provides a foundation to all national economies, delivering a wide range of socio-economic benefits (Rodrigue, Comtois, and Slack 2013). Roadways, like all transportation infrastructure, deteriorate over time due to various reasons such as traffic load (Hartgen, Fields, and Feigenbaum 2014). Inadequately maintained roads significantly constrain mobility, raise vehicle operating costs, increase accident rates and contribute to isolation, poverty and illiteracy (Burningham and Stankevich 2005).…”