The Roadway April 2022

POTHOLES El Paso County roads are not immune to potholes. A pothole is a hole in the roadway that may vary in size and shape. The size of a pothole can range from a few inches wide and deep to several feet wide and several inches deep. They are caused by several different factors, including moisture under the surface, poor sub-surface material, and the natural cycle of freezing and thawing.

The repair of potholes is the responsibility of the El Paso County Department of Public Works Highway Division Asphalt Crew. The Department takes a strategic approach to pothole repairs.

When the Asphalt Crew receives a request for a pothole repair, the first thing they do is evaluate the request: What type of road is the pothole on? (high-speed, high-volume vs low speed, low volume) Can the repair be delayed until a few more requests in the same area are received to increase our efficiency and fix several potholes at once?

Is there a potential threat to public safety or potential damage to public or private property?

Another factor to consider is the weather.

Weather plays a significant role in the quality and durability of a repair. Asphalt repair should not be performed at temperatures below 40 degrees. During the winter months, asphalt crews will perform emergency repairs to potholes but may need to perform the repairs again in warmer weather because the materials may not adhere well to the pavement.

PG 4