Elorza tackling pothole problem

PROVIDENCE – Mayor Jorge O. Elorza is tackling the pothole problem.

Elorza, at a press conference Wednesday at Plain and Beacon streets, announced steps being taken to address the numerous potholes plaguing the city.
He said that the city has pothole crews out repairing roadways daily. Roadways are prioritized based on traffic level and roadway conditions. Street surveys also are being conducted daily to identify problem areas.
This year, the city has new equipment to improve the speed and quality of pothole repairs. According to information from the mayor’s office, the city has more than tripled the number of asphalt compactors used to compress and smooth the surface of patches.

The city also is using a “hot box” to keep asphalt on the patch truck hot for longer periods of time to reduce resupply trips and create more consistency in hot patch repairs.

“Potholes are a serious concern and hindrance to daily travel and business in the city. This winter has been severe and created challenging road conditions as we head into spring,” Elorza said in a statement. “I remain committed [to] making sure our response to potholes works. That’s why we have increased the amount of equipment available to our patch crews, implemented new equipment to improve the quality of our patches and are proactively surveying and prioritizing streets based on traffic and condition.”

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Residents are encouraged to report potholes to the mayor’s office by calling (401) 421-2489 or through the ProvConnex website and mobile app.

“Historic and frequent snow and consistently low temperatures throughout the winter have made filling potholes virtually impossible until recent reprieves in the weather pattern. Along with the heavy plowing, this has created a challenging number of potholes throughout the city,” a news release from the mayor’s office stated.
The mayor’s office said potholes are caused when water seeps under the road surface then freezes and expands, forcing the surface up and creating air pockets that automobiles and trucks drive over, causing more damage.

Drivers may file claims to the city of Providence for alleged injuries or damages as a result of potholes. Claims forms are available at www.providenceri.com/city-clerk/claims.

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