ROADS: Neuter the studs

According to an article in the March 1 Press, the Idaho Department of Transportation experienced a $406 million shortfall in covering the cost of highway maintenance during fiscal 2018. Much of that cost can be attributed to the damage done by studded tires. The studs are especially damaging to concrete bridges. The ruts caused by these tires are dangerous, especially for front-wheel drive vehicles during rainy weather.

The state should either outlaw the use of studded tires or heavily tax the vehicles that use them. There are other ways to give tires traction that are just as effective on Idaho’s icy roads.

LEONARD BRANT

Post Falls