Research group: CT roads in bad shape

Hartford, Conn. (AP) - A national transportation research group says Connecticut roads and bridges are in dire need of an upgrade but the state lacks enough funding to make the changes.

A report released Thursday by The Road Information Program says 45 percent of the state's major roadways are either in poor or mediocre condition and 34 percent of state bridges have been deemed deficient or obsolete.

The Washington, D.C.-based research group says the state needs more funding to improve roads but a Department of Transportation spokesman said Thursday that the department has been focusing its resources on fixing the current infrasturture. He also said state roads and bridges are safe and regularly inspected.