Rhode Island Roads Rated Worst in Nation Despite Billions in Infrastructure Spending, RIPEC Report Finds
A report by the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) found that despite billions spent on infrastructure, Rhode Island's roads are still rated the worst in the nation, and bridge repairs have only moved them from poor to fair condition.…
Providence New Bedford, RI, September 30, 2026 —
Despite substantial investments in infrastructure, Rhode Island continues to grapple with deteriorating road conditions, holding the unenviable position of having the worst-rated roads in the nation, according to a recent report by the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC). The analysis indicates that while billions have been allocated to infrastructure projects, the state’s roadways remain in poor condition.
The RIPEC report also examined the state’s bridges, noting that repair efforts have managed to elevate their condition from “poor” to “fair.” However, this improvement has not been enough to significantly alter the overall perception or reality of the state’s critical infrastructure status.
The core of the issue, as identified by the council’s analysis, lies in a fundamental imbalance in how infrastructure funds are being allocated. The report highlights that a disproportionately larger amount of spending has been directed towards capital projects, which typically involve new construction or major upgrades, rather than being prioritized for routine maintenance. This strategic allocation, or misallocation, has left essential upkeep tasks underserved.
The RIPEC is urging a shift in priorities, advocating for a higher emphasis on preservation and routine maintenance to address the current state of Rhode Island’s infrastructure. The findings suggest that a more balanced approach to spending, one that equally or more heavily weights the ongoing upkeep of existing roads and bridges, may be necessary to achieve sustainable improvements and move away from the bottom ranking in national road quality assessments.
The specific amount of the billions spent on infrastructure was not detailed in the summary. Similarly, the exact timeline for these expenditures or the specific capital projects undertaken was not provided. The report did not detail which entities are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the roads and bridges, nor did it specify any potential code violations or outcomes of inspections beyond the general condition ratings.
Story summarized from the original created by Christopher Shea on rhodeislandcurrent.com, see more information here.
Media gallery
