Industry group urges road repairs in N.J.

    A group representing road construction workers is urging New Jersey lawmakers to spend more on roadway repairs.

    The New Jersey Asphalt Pavement Association says only 20 percent of the state’s roads are in good condition, with local and county roads especially in need of repair.

    Executive Director Bob Sauber said the Christie Administration’s plan to spend $284 million on roadway maintenance is a good start, but wants the Legislature to approve $40 million more to resurface roads.

    “The bases on these roads are starting to fail. As the cracks get in the roads, the water seeps in there and softens up the base and destroys the foundation,” said Sauber. “That’s why it’s so critical to get out there in a timely manner and resurface roads before it gets too late, where you need costly reconstruction.”

    • WHYY thanks our sponsors — become a WHYY sponsor

    A New Jersey Transportation Department spokesman said the money the state is planning to invest on projects in the next fiscal year should put 80 percent of the roads in acceptable condition.

    WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.

    Want a digest of WHYY’s programs, events & stories? Sign up for our weekly newsletter.

    Together we can reach 100% of WHYY’s fiscal year goal