Texas Highways Rank 27th Nationally for Conditions

State drops two spots in annual Reason Foundation report on road and bridge quality

Apr. 19, 2026 at 7:13pm

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An abstract, blurred image of a busy highway interchange at sunset, with streaks of warm colors conveying the energy and motion of modern transportation.The report's findings on Texas' road and bridge conditions underscore the need for continued infrastructure investment to support the state's economic growth and mobility.Austin Today

According to the Reason Foundation's 2026 Highway Report, Texas' highway system has dropped two spots since 2025 and now ranks 27th in the country for cost-effectiveness and overall conditions. The report assessed pavement quality, bridge deficiencies, fatalities, infrastructure costs, and congestion levels across the United States.

Why it matters

Texas' highway infrastructure is a critical component of the state's economy and quality of life, with roads and bridges connecting communities, enabling commerce, and facilitating the movement of people and goods. The Reason Foundation report provides an important benchmark for how Texas' transportation system compares to other states, highlighting areas for potential improvement.

The details

The report found that Texas ranked 33rd in urban interstate pavement conditions, 21st in rural interstate pavement conditions, 39th in urban arterial pavement conditions, and 12th in rural arterial pavement conditions. Texas also ranked 3rd in structurally deficient bridges, 26th in urban fatality rate, 42nd in rural fatality rate, and 41st in traffic congestion.

  • The Reason Foundation released its 2026 Highway Report in April 2026.

The players

Reason Foundation

A nonprofit think tank that conducts research and analysis on public policy issues, including transportation infrastructure.

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The takeaway

The Reason Foundation report highlights the need for continued investment and improvement in Texas' transportation infrastructure to maintain the state's economic competitiveness and quality of life for residents. Addressing deficiencies in pavement quality, bridge conditions, and traffic congestion will be crucial priorities for state and local transportation officials.