MEDFORD, Ore. (AP) — The Great Recession’s impact on Oregon highways could last for years as the drop in traffic volume means a tougher search for road construction money.
The Medford Mail Tribune reports (http://bit.ly/A72Ntq ) traffic volume has decreased on both Interstate Highway 5 and Highway 99 since the start of the recession.
Oregon Department of Transportation spokesman Gary Leaming blames higher gas prices, online shopping and drivers with thinner wallets during the economic downturn.
Average daily vehicle trips in 2010 were nearly identical to the number in 2001, and far from the peak number of trips per day in 2004.
