It's been debated other places than this. There are advanced road materials that are very durable like rubberized asphalt. They are not widely used. I am not in that industry, I know a few who are. Those who award road contracts do no have a reason to insist on better materials. Also, If you use better materials, roads need repaired less often, and road contruction companies get less work...or at least that's what I've heard.