City crews ramping up pothole repairs after weather delays

Due to a higher-than-average accumulation of snowfall, as well as a high number of freeze and thaw events during the winter and spring seasons, the City’s pothole blitz was delayed. Despite mother nature getting in the way, we’re doing everything to get back on track, and the City has mobilized extra crews and contractors to accelerate completion of the repairs beginning Monday May 25.

“Since hot-mix asphalt became available for use at the start of May, City crews and contractor crews have used nearly 400 tonnes of asphalt during the pothole blitz,” says Cam LeClaire, Roadways Manager. “Our crews repair potholes year-round. In colder weather, we use gravel or recycling asphalt for temporary repairs, while hot-mix during warmer weather allows us to make more permanent repairs to maintain safety and provide a smoother ride on Saskatoon streets.”

Crews prioritize potholes in driving lanes on high-traffic streets first to address safety and mobility concerns quickly. Once these areas are addressed, crews return to repair potholes near curbs, parking lanes, and lower-priority streets.

Potholes are a common challenge in cities with freeze-thaw climates. Moisture enters small cracks in the pavement, freezes and expands, which causes the asphalt to break apart. Traffic travelling over weakened pavement can quickly enlarge these holes.

To date, more than 3,700 potholes have been reported using the City’s Report a Pothole map. Because of the high number of freeze-thaw events, this represents an increase of more than 2,000 potholes compared to the same time period in 2025. Residents reporting a pothole through the online map can also see whether the location has already been identified and is awaiting repair.

Potholes confirmed as emergencies are marked as High Priority on the online map and are addressed within 24 to 72 hours, weather permitting. Non-emergency pothole repairs are part of planned maintenance programs, ensuring the road network's longevity while prioritizing citizen safety and mobility.

Please allow 24 to 48 hours for repair completion and Map updates. Remember to reduce speed and watch for crews for everyone's safety.

Hazardous potholes or pavement cuts can be reported to our Customer Care Centre at 306-975-2476. Explore more about potholes and utility cut repairs at saskatoon.ca/potholes.