As spring rolls into Oro Valley, we’ll notice nature waking up all around us. From critters sunning themselves to the poppies blooming, it’s also the time when many of us start sneezing and reach for allergy meds. It’s the season for sunscreen too! But did you know that caring for your skin has a lot in common with how we care for our roads?
Driving through town, you might spot contractors and public works folks out maintaining our roads. Although it might feel like a hassle, these efforts keep our roads among the best in the region. With our busy traffic and challenging weather, that’s no small feat!
Our success in road maintenance owes much to proactive efforts from the Town Council and staff. They make sure funds are allocated to keep this program running. For instance, in the fiscal year 19-20, $1.4 million is being requested to continue road preservation. Our Public Works team keeps a close eye on the state of our roads, inspecting and updating the 10-year Pavement Preservation Plan annually.
Annual inspections are crucial to anticipate wear and tear from weather and traffic. As more folks use our roads, they experience stress from vehicles stopping, starting, and turning. Think of pavement like skin; it needs care to stay in good condition. Like lotion to dry skin, a “fog seal” treatment rejuvenates pavement, preventing cracks and potholes.
For the first decade of a road’s life, all is well. Between years 10 and 17, a few fog seal treatments might be needed. After that, a slurry seal, which is a tougher treatment, helps extend the pavement’s life. As roads age beyond 25 years, treatments like crack and chip sealing become necessary.
Crack sealing prevents water from seeping into the base layers of the pavement, crucial even in mild winters. Chip sealing involves adding rubber-coated stones and an oil-based binder over the road, providing a fresh surface. Finally, around 27 years in, milling and resurfacing renew the road before a complete replacement becomes inevitable around the 30-year mark.
Our Pavement Preservation Program strategically focuses on maintaining roads in the best condition first. While it might seem odd, this strategy ensures better results and a greater return on investment. Older, worn-out roads eventually need reconstruction, like what was done for La Cholla Boulevard and Tangerine Drive.
As our network of new roads matures, the emphasis on preservation will grow, requiring more resources. Learning from other communities, we know neglecting roads can make restoration costs soar. That’s why we’re committed to keeping Oro Valley’s roads in top shape.
So, as you care for your skin this summer, remember we’re doing the same for our roads. If you see crews working, please slow down and give them space. They’re out there ensuring we all have quality roads to drive on.
To stay updated on road projects like the La Cholla Boulevard widening, visit Oro Valley’s website and subscribe to our email list on the homepage.
By Paul Keesler, P.E., Director, Public Works/Town Engineer – Explorer Newspaper, 3/20/19
Sources:
– Oro Valley Official Website
– Public Works/Town Engineer