Joplin Globe

In our view: Oklahoma road plan in trouble

7/12/05

If a new statewide poll is accurate, Oklahomans aren’t in the mood to increase motor fuel taxes even if earmarked for improving deteriorating roads and bridges. Indeed, almost two-thirds of those responding to the Sooner Poll would vote “no” on a tax increase of 5 cents on a gallon of gasoline and 8 cents on diesel. An added negative factor to the tax plan is that almost 90 percent said they would show up to cast their ballots.

The increase in the price of gasoline and diesel at the pump has angered and frustrated motorists and truck drivers on the state’s highways to the point that they aren’t willing to approve any additional funding that would add to the cost of keeping their cars and trucks running.

That’s understandable.

Another factor is that the Oklahoma Legislature is planning to increase its spending on highways gradually to a sustained level of $170 million annually. That represents only a fraction of what is needed for the estimated $15 billion backlog for maintenance and construction in the state, but it may have convinced enough Oklahomans disgruntled at the price of gasoline that at least the problem is being addressed.

Proponents of the motor fuels tax plan contend that 3,000 miles of Oklahoma’s 12,000 miles of highways and bridges need replacing. The issue is both safety and economic growth. Good highways are vital to both. If approved, the proposed fuels tax would generate an extra $150 million annually.

It would appear that the tax plan heading to voters in September is dead in the water. That could change if gasoline and diesel prices come down appreciably. But don’t hold your breath.

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