Spring is here, bringing with it melting snow and temperature swings. If you’ve been driving around the city over the past few days, you’ve likely experienced the impacts of the rapidly changing weather.
From draining pooling water to patching potholes, our crews have been working around the clock on our streets.
Why water pools on the street
You may have noticed water pooling on streets this time of year. That happens when the nearby catch basin is still frozen and the water has no place to go. The catch basin is how the water drains from the street into the sewer system.
Unfortunately, warmer temperatures during the day and cooler ones at night mean this is a common problem each spring.
How we’re draining the water
Our crews use steaming machines to quickly melt the ice and open the catch basin. Once the ice has melted, the water has a clear path to the sewer system.
While we have crews working 24/7, they’re prioritizing busier streets and where water is threatening personal property.
Tell us trouble spots
If you know of a street with pooling water, please let us know. You can easily report a frozen catch basin through our convenient form or by contacting 311. Crews will then look into it.
Why all the potholes
The temperature swings are also behind the potholes.
The warmer weather melts the snow. Water then seeps into cracks on the road. When it gets cold again at night, the water freezes and expands. The pressure that puts on the pavement leads to potholes.
How we’re patching them
Our crews are also out filling them as quick as they can. They have to use a temporary patch because it’s still cold and wet out. We know this is a short term fix hot asphalt is available for a longer-term patch.
Very large or deep potholes that pose an imminent safety concern are prioritized for immediate attention.
How you can help
We can only fill potholes we know about. That’s why it’s important to let us know where you spot them. You can easily report them through our online form or by contacting 311.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share locations of potholes and frozen catch basins.
Sign up for the Our City Newsletter
We have a lot going on at the City that can affect your daily lives. Stay up-to-date on what is happening by signing up for the Our City Newsletter, emailed each Friday.