TAC Launches Project to Develop Pothole Repair Best Practices

Monday, December 4, 2017

A project to develop best practices for pothole repairs in Canada has been launched by the Transportation Association of Canada (TAC).

The repair of potholes throughout a road network is one of the most challenging operations for Canadian agencies. Pavements often develop potholes during winter and spring thaw conditions, when it is difficult to obtain quality patching materials. Repair strategies applied by most Canadian agencies are typically reactive, with the patching of distress locations temporary, until more favourable weather conditions occur and permit a more permanent solution.

In recent years, there have been a number of patching products offered to agencies, with many Canadian agencies struggling to obtain appropriate information about the products, installation procedures, and the long-term performance that can be expected. Since most of the products are proprietary in nature, there can be significant issues with ultimate lines of responsibility, if problems or failures occur. 

Recommended by the Soils and Materials Standing Committee under the guidance of the Chief Engineers’ Council, key tasks of this project will include:

  • Literature and research review of typical causes of pothole occurrences and appropriate repair strategies;
  • Survey of Canadian agencies, industry, product suppliers, and contractors to determine the pertinent issues related to pothole repairs practices; and 
  • Synthesis of best practices.

The project steering committee is currently being formed and work will begin soon. The funding partners for this project include Manitoba Infrastructure; New Brunswick Transportation and Infrastructure; Ministère des Transports, de la Mobilité durable et de l’Électrification des transports du Québec; Newfoundland and Labrador Transportation and Works; Northwest Territories Department of Infrastructure; Prince Edward Island Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy; Saskatchewan Highways and Infrastructure; Yukon Highways and Public Works;  Ville de Montréal and the Cities of Calgary, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg.

To make a contribution to the project and join the project steering committee, email Craig Stackpole, TAC Program Manager.

 


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