BOISE - Gov. Butch Otter says Idaho's roads are in need of major maintenance and repair, nearly $240,000,000 worth.

He says if they don't find the funds soon, it could cost Idahoans more, later.

Driving along the stretch of highway on the I-84 near Broadway in Boise, it appears to be a smooth ride.

Lydia Alberto uses the I-84 daily to get to and from work. She says the roads could use some work.

"I've noticed it's pretty bumpy where they do construction, and it could probably be repaved," Alberto said.

It's a bit jolty for the miles before the exit to Boise's airport, much like the debate to raise taxes for Idaho's roads.

Transportation Committee Chairman Sen. John McGee says it's tough to ask taxpayers to pay more in this bad economy. But it will cut costs in the long run.

"By spending a little now, we will save Idahoans millions in the future," McGee said.

But Common Interest president Keith Allred says not so fast. His organization is made up of concerned citizens and they've been looking into the road problem.

Allred says Idaho can afford to wait a few years before spending over $200,000,000 on the state's highways.

"The conditions aren't so dire that we need to significantly raise taxes in these difficult economic times," Allred said.

Trucker Marco Breton drives about 3,500 miles a week on some of the worst highways in America. He says Boise's roads are some of the best he's seen in ten years.

"You can't even make it through Chicago in two hours without being backed up," Breton said. "And construction here, it's nice. Roads are smooth and there's good truckin'."

There may be nice drives for travelers passing through Boise, but it appears the legislature still has a bumpy road ahead of them.