County Roads, Bridges, and...potholes! How counties manage their own roads and important partnerships with TDOT: A Conversation w/ TCHOA Director Brett Howell

📢 In this episode of the Tennessee County Voice, host Wesley Doyle talks with Brett Howell, executive director of the Tennessee County Highway Officials Association (TCHOA), about one of the most essential—and often overlooked—functions of county government: keeping Tennessee’s roads and bridges safe, reliable, and connected. Brett discusses the history and mission of TCHOA, how county highway departments are funded, and the growing challenges facing counties as fuel-tax revenues remain largely stagnant while the costs of materials, construction, and maintenance continue to rise. He also explains why one-time state funding allocations can help address immediate needs but make long-term transportation planning difficult. The conversation breaks down the differences between county roads, state-aid roads, and state routes, as well as the critical partnership between county highway departments and the Tennessee Department of Transportation. Brett also addresses the everyday challenge of potholes and deferred maintenance, the estimated $4.1 billion in long-term county transportation infrastructure needs, and what growing communities mean for Tennessee’s future transportation demands. ✍️ For incoming county officials, Brett closes with an important piece of advice: learn your county’s story. Understanding the unique needs and challenges of your local highway department—and being able to communicate that story—is essential to advocating for your community at the state level. ©️ 2026 Tennessee County Services Association For more information, visit www.tncounties.org