As the temperature rises, construction in Lethbridge is ramping up including work to patch potholes around the city.
According to officials in the City of Lethbridge’s Transportation Operations department, crews have been working on minor road repairs since mid-April. The drastic weather changes which happen throughout the winter are a significant factor when it comes to pothole formation in the area because when the temperatures rise, water from the melting ice and snow will get into the cracks in the road. When the weather eventually returns to freezing conditions the moisture will expand and break down the asphalt. Potholes eventually form after vehicles drive over the damaged areas loosening the asphalt.
According to officials, “By springtime, the aftermath is on the surface, resulting in potholes of all shapes and sizes throughout the city.”
Hot asphalt is used to repair potholes throughout the spring, summer and fall; however, the work is dependent on the weather.
In the City of Lethbridge, residents can submit pothole repair requests online, with work being done on a priority basis starting with holes that are deemed to be a hazard in the driving lanes of busy streets.
“Some potholes on side streets may take longer to fill because of their location on the road or because traffic is typically slower and lighter in those areas,” a statement from Transportation Operation officials reads. “The overall road condition is measured with the paving quality index. Roads in very bad condition will be scheduled for an overlay.
Our crews do their best to avoid peak traffic hours on busy roads to minimize traffic impacts.”
As workers continue to do the work drivers are urged to follow posted signs and detours, and not to drive through temporary closures or work sites. As well motorists are urged to be careful when driving around and to approach a pothole slowly to reduce impact on your vehicle if you are unable to avoid it.
