CITY BEGINS ROAD PRESERVATION BLITZ ON RESIDENTIAL STREETS

As part of the City of Saskatoon’s 2014 Road Preservation and Rehabilitation Program crews have begun microsurfacing 65 lane kilometres of roadway, mostly on residential streets.

Microsurfacing, also known as seal coating, adds a thin protective layer of asphalt blended with finely crushed stone to the surface. This provides an extra layer of wear, seals the underlying asphalt and extends the life of the roadway.

“Similar to sealing your deck, microsurfacing or seal coating creates a protective layer which preserves the underlying structure and prevents the need for more expensive repairs in the future,” says Chris Hallam Director of Construction and Design. “This is a preventative treatment applied to roads that are structurally sound and in fair condition to improve minor defects and to seal and protect the roadway until an asphalt resurfacing treatment is feasible or required.”

When first applied, the microsurfacing has a rough and grainy texture and is brownish in colour. However, within a short period of time, as vehicles drive on the road it quickly wears smooth and the colour fades to blend with the existing roadway.

“We have received a few concerns from citizens about the look and apparent quality of the road treatment when it is first applied; while we recognize it is not as aesthetically pleasing as new asphalt, it is the most cost-effective way to preserve the roads,” says Hallam. “Regular preventative maintenance is key to maintaining the road network into the future.”

While the work is carried out the road is closed for approximately 24 hours. The program is expected to be complete mid-October, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances. Residents along a road receiving this preventative treatment will be notified with a letter before the work begins.

For up-to-date information on these and other road restrictions, use our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map at Saskatoon.ca/go/maps or click on Building Better Roads at saskatoon.ca.

Overall, the City has completed 75 per cent of the 2014 Road Rehabilitation and Preservation Program to date.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.