Help Needed During Pothole Season

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal is asking for the public's help in identifying and dealing with the spring problem that plagues roads everywhere - potholes.

"Given our climate and geology, potholes are a fact of life in the Maritimes every spring," said Bill Estabrooks, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. "We can't stop them but we have very high standards in how we deal with them."

In addition to driving with extra caution motorists can help by pointing the finger at problem potholes. A toll-free number, 1-888-432-3233, will direct callers to the nearest Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal base.

"Our staff make regular road checks but we're responsible for 23,000 kilometres of roads so we may not see everything," said Mr. Estabrooks. "The public can help and we would appreciate it."

Potholes appear on roads as the constant freeze and thaw cycles of the spring loosen the asphalt. During colder weather potholes are repaired with a temporary patch called cold mix. In the summer months, regular hot mix asphalt is used. Hot mix provides a more permanent repair but it is not generally available from suppliers until after the May long weekend.

Department standards for 100 series and trunk roads are that potholes deeper than 100 mm (4 inches) are marked with a sign as soon as staff becomes aware of them and repaired within seven days. For roads with lower traffic volumes potholes must be signed within 24 hours and repaired within 21 days. Potholes which pose a significant and immediate danger are repaired as soon as department staff become aware of them.