LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

     Every two years, Kentucky lawmakers approve a road plan that includes funding for infrastructure projects throughout the state. For almost a decade, this plan has been developed using the Strategic Highway Investment Formula for Tomorrow (SHIFT) program. This is a data-driven approach to prioritizing projects and determining funding in a way that ensures road projects are selected based on objective criteria rather than political influence.

     In addition to the state plan, local governments also address road maintenance, repair, and construction in their budgets. These projects are primarily funded through a combination of state, federal, and local sources. For decades, the state’s funding of local roadwork has operated with little oversight, often influenced by political considerations rather than true infrastructure needs. Without clear guidelines or assessments, funding decisions lacked transparency and fairness, leaving some communities with better-maintained roads while others struggled with crumbling infrastructure. Lawmakers took steps to change that during the 2024 Regular Session, and further built on those efforts this year with the passage of two key legislative measures, HB 546 and HJR 46.

     HB 546 is a significant step toward creating a structured, needs-based approach to funding local road projects. The bill creates the Local Assistance Road Program (LARP) with specific guidelines that the Department of Rural and Municipal Roads must follow when submitting projects for funding consideration. Instead of funding decisions being made without clear criteria, HB 546 ensures that proposed projects meet objective eligibility standards that includes local participation before reaching the legislature. This change helps remove political favoritism and ensures that taxpayer dollars are directed toward the communities that need them most.

     HJR 46 takes the commitment to accountability a step further by focusing funding set aside for local roads during the 2024 budget process on the most hazardous roads in Kentucky. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) evaluated local road projects across the state, ranking them on a severity scale from one to ten, with ten representing the most dangerous conditions. Under HJR 46, only projects ranked at the highest level of urgency, those ranked ten, receive funding.

     This approach is a significant shift from past practices, where funding could be distributed based on political considerations rather than immediate safety concerns. By directing $23.8 million to 145 critical road maintenance projects, HJR 46 ensures that the state’s most hazardous roads are repaired first, reducing risks for drivers, improving infrastructure equity, and ensuring that resources are allocated based on need rather than influence.

     These two measures represent a major change in how Kentucky funds local road projects. Instead of a system driven by politics, the state is embracing a data-driven, needs-based approach that prioritizes safety and efficiency. By ensuring that projects are assessed, ranked, and funded based on clear criteria, HB 546 and HJR 46 promote transparency and help restore public trust in the process.

     Well-maintained roads are not just a matter of convenience they are essential for economic growth, public safety, and community well-being. By adopting an impartial and more responsible funding model, Kentucky is paving the way for stronger, safer, and more connected communities.   

     Roads are the backbone of Kentucky’s economy and quality of life. Whether it’s farmers, transporting goods, businesses receiving supplies, or families commuting to work and school, every Kentuckian relies on a safe and well-maintained road system. 

     Kentucky is home to major industries, including agriculture and manufacturing. Strong, reliable roads keep businesses moving, attract investment, and create jobs. Companies are more likely to invest in a state with well-maintained infrastructure, while poor road conditions can drive businesses away and increase transportation costs.

     Additionally, rural and urban connectivity is essential for the state’s prosperity. Many Kentuckians live in rural areas and depend on quality roads for access healthcare and education. Investing in road maintenance ensures that no community is left behind.

     Poor road conditions are more than an inconvenience, they are a safety hazard. Potholes, deteriorating bridges, and crumbling pavement increase the risk of accidents and vehicle damage. Maintaining roads reduces collisions, improves emergency response times, and protects drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

     Legislation like HJR 46, which prioritizes the most hazardous road projects, is a step toward making Kentucky’s roads safer. By investing in repairs now, the state can prevent costly and dangerous conditions in the future. When roads are neglected, small issues turn into expensive maintenance projects. A proactive approach saves taxpayer dollars and ensures roads remain safe and functional for years to come.

     By prioritizing infrastructure funding and adopting data-driven policies like HB 546 and HJR 46, the Commonwealth is ensuring that resources are allocated where they are needed most. Investing in quality roads is not just a government responsibility, it’s a commitment to a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Kentucky. Our district will not be neglected. 

     As always, I can be reached anytime through the toll-free message line in Frankfort at 1-800-372-7181. You can also contact me via email at Bill.Wesley@kylegislature.gov and keep track through the Kentucky legislature’s website at legislature.ky.gov.