A survey from CAA South Central Ontario suggests most Ontarians remain concerned about the state of the province’s roads, with eight in 10 respondents worried about deteriorating conditions.
The findings were released as the organization launched its 2026 CAA Worst Roads campaign, an annual public survey that invites residents to nominate roads in need of repair.
Nearly 70% of respondents said they do not believe enough is being done to maintain Ontario’s road network, up five percentage points from last year.
Cracked pavement topped the list of concerns, cited by 88% of respondents, followed by potholes at 87 per cent. Uneven or bumpy road surfaces were identified by 81%, while 80% pointed to congestion as a major issue.
“Ontarians are telling us loud and clear that road conditions are not keeping pace with expectations,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice president of government and community relations.
The survey also found most complaints about road conditions are not reaching government officials. Nearly 80% of respondents said they are more likely to raise concerns with a spouse, co-worker or mechanic rather than report them to the appropriate authority.
CAA is encouraging Ontarians to submit nominations through the campaign, noting past results have led to infrastructure improvements.
“We know this campaign works,” Di Felice says. “When Ontarians speak up and nominate roads they want to see repaired, we consistently see action.”
According to the organization, many roads identified through the campaign are key trade and supply chain routes, linking infrastructure conditions to economic activity. Increased population growth, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area, is adding pressure to existing road networks and contributing to congestion and wear.
The survey also points to financial impacts for drivers. 80% of respondents reported paying out of pocket for vehicle repairs caused by poor road conditions, while 10% said they have delayed repairs altogether.
The CAA Worst Roads campaign has operated for more than two decades. Roads that rank on the annual list are often prioritized for repair by municipal and provincial governments.
In the past five years, more than 10 roads have received attention following their inclusion on the list. County Road 49 in Prince Edward County, a frequent top 10 entry, recently received provincial funding to support repairs along more than 18 kilometres.
Ontarians can nominate roads for issues including potholes, congestion, faded markings, poor signage, traffic signal timing and gaps in pedestrian or cycling infrastructure.
Nominations can be submitted online at www.caaworstroads.com until April 17.
