By Vernon Matters Staff

Problem potholes becoming more prominent

Jan 24, 2020 | 5:10 AM

Some roads this time of year are like an obstacle course with all the potholes.

The City of Vernon says the weather is a factor in why the roads deteriorate.

“With fluctuations in temperature and lots of moisture from rain and snow, we have seen some significant potholes develop in recent weeks,” said Christy Poirier, communications manager with the city. “Based on available resources, the City is able to make repairs throughout the year, even in winter. Recently, crews have made some pothole repairs using a hot mix method with recycled asphalt.”

Poirier says the priority in the last few weeks has been snow and ice control.

“Although this warmer weather has melted snow on many roads, some areas that were covered with compact snow have turned to slush, which means crews are still actively clearing streets across the community. When a pothole is reported and if conditions allow, crews will assess and repair the damaged areas whenever possible.”

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The city is able to repair potholes throughout winter, so long as Mother Nature cooperates.

“In order for a pothole repair to work, we need to remove the water within the hole. This helps ensure the repair mix bonds with the original road material,” said Chris Ovens, manager of Roads, Drainage and Airport. “At this time of year we are dealing with a lot of runoff and precipitation, which does makes the process a little more difficult.”

Potholes in the city can be reported to the Public Works department here.

Highway 97 (32nd Street) and Highway 6 fall under the provincial jurisdiction, meaning repairs are handled by the contractor AIM Roads.

If motorists come across a pothole on either of the highways, they can contact AIM through its website (https://aim-roads.ca/) or on its 24-hour hotline: 1-866-222-4204.

by Vernon Matters Staff

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