IN MEMORY OF
SEPTEMBER 28, 1945 – DECEMBER 21, 2022
T.R.U.S.T. BOARD MEMBER
GARY RIDLEY
2018-2022
2009-2017
2001-2013
2009-2013
TRUST Board Member
Secretary of Transportation
ODOT Executive Director
OTA Executive Director
T.R.U.S.T. IS AN ACRONYM FOR
TRANSPORTATION REVENUES
USED STRICTLY FOR TRANSPORTATION
We formed in 2005 as a project of Oklahomans for Safe Bridges & Roads, Inc., the non-profit organization that led the campaign to pass SQ 723. SQ 723 was a ballot initiative to raise the state gasoline and diesel tax with new revenue dedicated toward transportation infrastructure construction, repair and maintenance across Oklahoma. The measure was soundly defeated by voters amid rising fuel costs at the time.
Following the defeat of SQ 723, it became evident an advocacy organization dedicated solely to restoring transportation funding as a core priority of state government was needed. TRUST began its advocacy efforts during the 2006 state legislative session.
OUR
MISSION
T.R.U.S.T. is a legislative advocacy coalition dedicated to restoring Oklahoma’s transportation infrastructure.
We are committed to creating a culture within Oklahoma that values transportation
as a key function and priority of state government.
OKLAHOMA IS AMERICA'S CROSSROADS
Unfortunately, for decades we ranked near the top nationally in deficient bridges, as well as more than 25% of our state highways needing critical repair. In order for Oklahoma to have a first-rate, modern and safe surface transportation system, state government must provide adequate funding for new construction, rehabilitation and maintenance.
The state of Oklahoma has achieved very good progress since 2006 by increasing state funding for transportation by over $1 billion, however the state still has billions of dollars in backlogged repairs to our bridges and highways.
Without modern bridges and highways, Oklahoma’s commerce and economic development will be stifled. There will be limited access in rural communities to emergency responders, an increased loss of life and Oklahoma’s national image will suffer. Additionally, if continued investment is not realized, we will saddle future generations with an ever-growing tax burden to fund repairs that grow more costly each day.
To address Oklahoma’s transportation funding challenges, TRUST was formed in 2005 to improve our bridges and highways through legislative and grassroots advocacy, education and public relations. We are united toward one objective - to create a permanent paradigm shift in Oklahoma state government that holds transportation as the leading priority.