SUMMARY

DOT’s expenditures for state highways increased from $739.7 million in fiscal year (FY) 1996‑97 to $2.1 billion in FY 2015‑16. DOT budgeted to complete more major highway project work than could be completed with available funding because it did not sufficiently take into account the effects of inflation and unexpected cost increases. We found DOT could take additional steps to control program costs, including by consistently using its performance measures to manage and improve its operations. We include recommendations that will help DOT use its funds more effectively and improve how it manages the planning, engineering, construction, and maintenance of state highways.