NORTH CAROLINA -- With the Department of Transportation estimating it will face a $65 billion shortfall over the next 25 years to build roads, a blue ribbon commission has been formed to take a look into the problem.

North Carolina Gov. Mike Easley, Senate Pro Tem President Marc Basnight and House Speaker Joe Hackney unveiled the commission last week.

The study committee will focus on funding issues, efficiency and setting priorities. The committee must come up with preliminary recommendations by next May. A final report is due to the General Assembly by the end of 2008.

With more on the committee and its work, Mecklenburg County State Representative Becky Carney joined News 14 Carolina’s Heather Childers. The two discussed Carney’s hopes for the committee.

The chairman of the new committee, Brad Wilson, was also in the studio with News 14’s Tim Boyum. He’s the chief operating officer for Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina.

News 14 Carolina wants to know what you think about the transportation issue. Do you think counties and cities should help the state pay for more roads? Vote in our unscientific Snappoll, located to the right, and be sure to leave a comment about your feelings on the issue.

As of 2:45 p.m. Saturday, 60 percent of voters in the poll said counties and cities should not help pay for more roads.