WVDOH Launches Aggressive Pothole Patching Operations
After working around the clock to treat and clear the state’s highway system following last week's winter storm, the West Virginia Division of Highways (WVDOH) is now aggressively patching potholes caused by the recent freeze-thaw cycles.
Repair Prioritization Strategy
As the harsh weather gives way to milder conditions across many parts of the state, the West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) is tackling repairs methodically. Crews will first address primary roadways before moving on to secondary and tertiary roads.
“When we start to put together our action plan for potholes or damage to the roadway, we start with the highest priority roads and the ones that have the most amount of people on the roads,” said Joe Pack, Chief Engineer of Operations. “If there are potholes that are dangerous or damaging vehicles, we will then prioritize that to a higher level and get those completed and fixed first.”
Winter Repair Methods
Although potholes can form year-round, they are most prevalent during the cold winter months when the WVDOH has the fewest options for permanent repairs. Here is how crews are managing the current damage:
- Temporary Cold Mix: Crews use a cold asphalt mixture to make immediate, temporary repairs.
- The Process: The potholes are milled out square and filled in the same manner as hot asphalt applications.
- Long-Term Plan: Because the cold mixture is less durable, these temporary patches are designed strictly to prevent vehicle damage. Permanent repairs will be made when commercial asphalt plants reopen in the spring.
