After nearly a week of winter weather, we are getting a short break from freezing temperatures with rain forecast for much of the state on Friday. The Indiana Department of Transportation is advising us that as we drive we should watch for potholes. The current weather creates prime conditions for potholes to form.
Potholes are created when cracks develop in pavement from aging, traffic wear and winter freeze-thaw cycles. They start when water seeps into the cracks and freezes, expanding the layers of pavement, stone and soil. As the ice melts and contracts, heavy highway traffic further loosens the pavement, forming potholes.
INDOT says when they are not clearing snow, ice or storm debris, its crews are focused on maintaining and protecting the state’s roads and bridges. Sealing and repaving projects prevent water from seeping into the pavement and forming potholes.
During 2015, INDOT repaved 1,720 miles of state highways, chip-sealed 1,250 miles and crack sealed an additional 5,670 miles.
INDOT encourages reports of potholes on a numbered state route, interstate or U.S. highway. Locally contact the Vincennes INDOT office at 1-800-279-5758 or follow the “Report a Concern” link at potholes.indot.in.gov [