ODOT Transportation Funding Crisis Response

planned

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is facing a funding crisis due to flattening and declining gas tax revenues, inflation, and restrictions on available funding. This crisis could lead to the largest layoffs in Oregon state government history, with 483 employees being laid off and 449 vacant positions eliminated. ODOT plans to shutter maintenance facilities and make deep cuts unless new funding or more funding flexibility is granted. A proposed funding package including gas tax and other tax and fee hikes aims to raise about $620 million for the State Highway Fund in the 2025-2027 budget cycle, with ODOT receiving just over $300 million to stop layoffs and restore services.