1000 Friends’
Transportation Policy Initiatives - Fix-it-First

“Fix it First” is a concept with wide applicability.  Simply put, Fix it First means making reinvestment in what already exists the top priority.  Expansion, growth, and new purchases come only after existing infrastructure has been taken care of properly.

When it comes to roads and highways, Fix it First means making sure that maintenance and repair are adequately funded before funded before funding expansion.  Regular maintenance such as filling potholes, applying protective coatings, and snowplowing all ensure a longer lifespan for roads.  Similarly, regular repair, more intensive resurfacing, reconditioning or reconstruction, of a roadway ensure that little problems that can be handled in a cost-effective manner are not neglected and allowed to become expensive major projects.  Each year, the state of Wisconsin invests more than $1 billion in our state highways alone – it makes sense to take care of those investments.

To learn more about the need for Fix it First and what’s being done elsewhere:

• Preservation

• State Highways in Wisconsin

• Fix it First Myths and Facts

• 1000 Friends of Wisconsin State Highway Program Analysis

• Fix it First in Other States

Click here for a pdf copy of 1000 Friends’ Fix it First Policy Memo

1000 Friends of Wisconsin
16 N. Carroll Street, Suite 810   Madison WI 53703    608.259.1000