Transportation
In 2024, 72% of Maine roadways were rated good or fair, unchanged from 2023.
No significant movement since the last available data
Benchmark: At least 85% of highway corridor Priority 1, 2 and 3 miles will be rated Excellent, Good, or Fair.
Overview
The Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) grades roadways from A (excellent) to F (unacceptable). In 2024, 1,063 miles (72%) of Maine’s most traveled and economically significant (“Priority 1”) roadways were graded A, B or C, unchanged from 2023, but up from 58% in 2018-2019. MDOT attributes this to increased state and federal funding. Four hundred eighteen miles (28%) were graded D or F. Our roadways carry the vast majority of passengers and freight. Poor road conditions can lead to personal injury, property damage, and extended commute times.
Transportation plays a crucial role in the functioning of our economy. Together, roads, rails, airports, and seaports promote economic activity by getting goods and people to their destinations efficiently and affordably. Public transportation is a critical component of this system, allowing people to access employment and services without a car, and reducing congestion and pollution. According to research published by the John T. Gorman Foundation, Maine’s current public transit operators meet just 11% of estimated need.
Fig. A
On mobile? Viewing this data is easier at a computer.
Highway Miles Rated Excellent, Good, or Fair
Source: Maine Department of Transportation