Legislature makes needed investment in state roads and bridges

By Rep. Brian Hill 

Oklahoman op-ed, Link 

When we talk about investing in Oklahoma’s future, it’s easy to picture new schools, better  health care or workforce development. While those are certainly worthy goals, there’s another  critical component that often goes overlooked, even though it affects every single one of us,  every single day: our roads and bridges. 

Crucial investments in Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure are not just about asphalt and  concrete. They’re about strengthening the backbone of our economy, protecting the lives of our  residents and laying a solid foundation for long-term prosperity. Roads may not inspire the same  clickbait headlines as flashy new programs, but without them, progress comes to a halt both  literally and figuratively. 

This year, the Legislature is taking another important step forward by allocating an additional  $20 million to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, bringing the total fund to $610  million. This is on top of the already robust and successful Eight-Year Plan that has guided our  infrastructure progress in recent years. This appropriation, rooted in fiscal responsibility and  forward-thinking leadership, is a smart investment that will pay dividends for years to come. 

This targeted, meaningful investment will allow the Transportation Department to accelerate  essential maintenance and improvement projects, address traffic hazards and raise the safety  standards of our highways and bridges. Whether you're a parent on the school run, a small  business owner making deliveries or a family heading to Sunday church, these improvements  will impact your daily life. 

The reality is that safe and reliable infrastructure is one of the most proven catalysts for a  thriving economy. By enhancing connectivity between rural and urban areas, we’re not just  helping people get from point A to point B. Instead, we’re opening the door for small business  growth, attracting new industries and strengthening the supply chains that keep Oklahoma  moving. Every dollar spent repairing a rural road or reinforcing a bridge is a dollar that supports  job creation, economic mobility and community stability. 

And let’s not forget the long-term savings that come from timely infrastructure investment.  Deferred maintenance is far more expensive down the road. By addressing these needs now, we  avoid the much higher costs of emergency repairs, closures or even accidents, all costs that  ultimately fall on the taxpayer. This is not just a matter of safety or convenience; it's sound  financial stewardship.

Whether it’s smoother highways, safer bridges or revitalized rural roads, this $20 million  investment is about building an Oklahoma that is stronger, safer and more competitive for  generations to come. 

In the decades to come, our children and grandchildren will travel these roads, cross these  bridges and build their lives on the foundation we’re laying today. Let’s keep moving Oklahoma  forward toward a future that our children will be proud to inherit. 

Rep. Brian Hill, a Republican, represents House District 47 in the Oklahoma House of  Representatives. He chairs the House Commerce and Economic Development Oversight  Committee.

6/30/2025