Privatized Roads: Are They a Good Deal for Motorists?

WASHINGTON--Private investment in the nation’s roads — in particular the long-term lease of existing roads — has become a popular avenue for cash-strapped states to raise additional revenue.

AAA’s public affairs team is ready to comment on the pros/cons of privatized roads and highways. AAA can comment on the following:

• Are privatized roads and highways a good deal for motorists.
• What do state, local and federal governments need to consider when privatizing a public road or highway.
• Why AAA is urging states to be cautious about privatization and why AAA is asking states the hard questions about privatization.
• What AAA’s national office and key AAA clubs are doing to address America’s growing interest in privatization of roadways.

NOTE TO MEDIA: Although a member of “Americans for a Strong National Highway Network” and a signatory to the Coalition’s letter to the DOT Secretary urging caution in pushing privatization of public roads, AAA does not categorically oppose the concept of public-private partnerships. We believe they can be a useful tool in some instances if done right – but they are not appropriate for all roads, or in all situations. They are not a magic bullet.

To learn more about AAA’s perspective on highway privatization please contact Mike Pina at 202-942-2079 or log on to www.aaa.com/news.

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 50 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.