SOLEDAD — City of Soledad launched a crack seal project in July to help roads last longer and give motor vehicles a smoother drive.
Crack sealing is the most commonly applied preventative pavement maintenance, and it is a relatively inexpensive process for its tremendous benefit on the streets.
Road deterioration, such as potholes and failed road bases, is often caused by water intrusion of unsealed pavement. Crack sealing helps save streets from needing expensive reconstruction.
“Crack seal is an important investment to extend the longevity of the roads,” said Assistant Engineer Alex Ramos, explaining that crack sealing consists of filling in cracks with a permanent adhesive sealant.
Cracks are sealed by applying hot sealing, which bonds the sides of the crack. The sealant stops water and debris from entering the crack and expands and contracts as temperatures change, preventing additional cracking.
Soledad City Council approved this project on May 15, awarding Pavement Coatings Co. a contract for $423,865. SB 1 and the assessment district funded the project, as reflected in the Capital Improvement Plan.
About 20 miles of crack seal will be used throughout the project.
Drivers are encouraged to look for traffic, detours and construction signs as they navigate the city. A full list of streets and dates can be found online at cityofsoledad.com.
