ODOT employees demand funding to address statewide transportation crises

The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Transportation and Economic Development convened on March 11, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues facing the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The meeting highlighted the urgent need for a sustainable budget to maintain the state's transportation infrastructure, which is vital for public safety and economic growth.

Key discussions centered around the proposed budget by Governor Tina Kotek, which suggests a tax increase of approximately $3.5 billion, including a potential gas tax hike of nearly $1. This proposal has raised questions among state employees and union representatives about their willingness to support such increases. Union leaders emphasized the importance of safe roads and the need for adequate funding to ensure that ODOT can effectively manage its responsibilities, which include maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of highways and responding to more than 40,000 crashes annually.

Jason Lawrence, vice president of SEIU Local 730, expressed concerns about the potential consequences of budget cuts, particularly in rural areas where staffing reductions could lead to longer response times for accidents and hazardous conditions. He urged the committee to prioritize safety in budget decisions, warning that cuts could significantly impact both workers and the traveling public.

Mark Boswell, a union treasurer and ODOT worker, echoed these sentiments, stressing that transportation is essential for economic growth and public safety. He argued that investing in ODOT's budget is crucial to avoid costly emergency repairs in the future and to ensure that all Oregonians have access to safe and reliable transportation.

The meeting also featured testimony from Sarah Iannarone, executive director of The Street Trust, who advocated for a fully funded ODOT budget that prioritizes safety and multimodal investments. She highlighted the need for accountability in financial management while emphasizing that cutting essential programs would not be a responsible solution.

Mayor Lacey Beatty, representing the Metropolitan Mayor's Consortium, reinforced the message that ODOT requires equitable funding to maintain the transportation networks that communities depend on. She pointed out that maintenance often suffers when budgets are tight, which is not a sustainable approach.

As the committee continues to deliberate on the budget, the discussions underscore the critical need for a balanced approach that addresses funding challenges while ensuring the safety and efficiency of Oregon's transportation system. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the state's infrastructure and the well-being of its residents.