Here’s what to know about Medicine Hat’s new micro-surfacing pilot project

1. Pavement preservation

Micro-surfacing is designed to seal, protect and prolong the life of existing asphalt, the city said in a news release.

It has proven to be an effective road rehabilitation process for crack repair, rut filling or surfacing the entire roadway.

It’s also a key component of the city’s transportation infrastructure renewal strategy.

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2. The city’s watching

Municipal engineer Carly Collier, who works in Medicine Hat’s municipal works department, says if the pilot is a success the initiative will be used elsewhere.

“We’ll keep an eye on that over the coming years, do a complete review on an annual basis, and look to get the five to eight years life that we’re expecting out of it,” Collier told CHAT News.

“If we see that is successful over the next few years, it’ll likely become more relevant or utilized within our city as an option.”

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3. It’s saving time and money

Road maintainance can often take days, weeks and even a month.

Micro-surfacing is faster, Collier explained.

“This application will see a detour set up, the surfacing completed and secured, and the roadway opened up typically within the same day,” she said.

It also saves taxpayer money.

“We do see it as a cost-effective solution for maintenance within the city,” Collier said.

“We do see on a, you know, a square meter kind of annual basis based on its service life, it is coming in less than the mill and overlay or a full rehab would require.”

by Eli J. Ridder

Here’s what to know about Medicine Hat’s new micro-surfacing pilot project

1. Pavement preservation

2. The city’s watching

3. It’s saving time and money

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