WINNIPEG - March 12, 2010 - City of Winnipeg crews have been repairing potholes since the beginning of March, and patching efforts will continue to be ramped up next week. Patching resources will be increased as the spring thaw progresses based on road conditions and the nature of repairs required. Early indications point to fewer potholes expected on city streets this spring compared to 2009 due to a steady melt.

Today, three pothole patching machines (Roadpatchers) were added to the six hand-asphalting crews already at work, and potholes are being repaired in all areas of the city. Crews will continue to patch potholes this weekend, and next week the number of Roadpatchers in use will be increased to six, to facilitate the timely repair of potholes on main routes.

“Last year, Winnipeg experienced a greater than average number of potholes due to the large amount of freezing rain we received last February and colder than average springtime temperatures which resulted in numerous freeze/thaw cycles and potholes,” says Bruce McPhail, Manager of the Streets Maintenance Division. “This year we are not seeing those same types of conditions, and at this time, Public Works is expecting fewer than average potholes based on the steady rate that the snow is melting. It is important to remember that the number of potholes is directly related to the weather we receive, and although the situation appears to be favorable at this time, the situation can potentially change if the weather becomes unfavourable.”

Public Works is monitoring road conditions closely and will be focusing patching efforts on main routes (Regional streets), bus routes and collector streets, particularly in curb lanes where water and runoff may accumulate.

Citizens are encouraged to report pothole locations by contacting 311 or online at Winnipeg.ca by street address.

The City would like to remind the public to use caution around crews and heavy equipment operating throughout the city over the coming weeks.

WINNIPEG - March 12, 2010 - Beginning Friday, March 12, light standards along the Assiniboine River Walk from the Osborne Bridge to the Main Street Bridge will be removed in order to prevent potential damage to the light poles from river ice during the spring breakup.

City crews will install barricades at the entrances to the Assiniboine River Walk from the Legislative Building steps to The Forks.

Early next week, light standards at Mostyn Park will also be temporarily removed. Barricades will be installed at the entrance to the Park at Mostyn Place and west of the Osborne Street Bridge.

The public is reminded there will be no lighting along the walk during evening/night. The river walk will be completely closed to pedestrian traffic in the near future with the normal spring rise in the river level.

Light standards will be reinstalled when conditions permit.