City crews doing pothole and small utility trench patching in winter months

February weather typically features snow and ice that contribute to creating potholes in the city. But with the current warm temperatures, the City of Lethbridge’s Transportation Operations department is out fixing some existing potholes. 

During the winter months, local asphalt plants are closed and can’t provide fresh, hot asphalt. To complete this work, crews typically need to use cold asphalt which must be replaced several times throughout the cold weather season.

The City of Lethbridge has an asphalt recycling machine that can produce hot asphalt. The recycler lets crews fix potholes and smaller utility patches during the warmer winter weather. The asphalt is transported to sites in a hot box, so that it stays warm and still binds with the existing road surface when placed. 

How are potholes formed?

• Harsh winter conditions and drastic weather changes are the leading causes of pothole formation in Lethbridge.
• When temperatures rise, water from snow and ice melt seeps into cracks in road surfaces and settles underground. When temperatures plummet below zero, that water freezes and expands, breaking down the asphalt.
• As vehicles drive over the damaged areas, the asphalt is loosened and potholes appear. By springtime, the aftermath is on the surface, resulting in potholes of all shapes and sizes throughout the city. 

How can the community support a successful road repair season?

• Residents and motorists in Lethbridge are encouraged to report potholes to 311. This can be done by calling 311 during business hours or by visiting the City’s website.
• Priority is given to potholes that present a hazard in the driving lanes of busy streets. Some potholes on side streets may take longer to fill because of their location on the road or because traffic is typically slower and lighter in those areas. The overall road condition is measured with the paving quality index. Roads in very bad condition will be scheduled for an overlay. 

Our crews do their best to avoid peak traffic hours on busy roads to minimize traffic impacts. To help keep repair crews safe while you commute, please: 

• Slow down. Safety is essential and supports efficient work. 
• Follow all posted signs and detours, and don’t drive through temporary closures and work sites. 
• Drive with care around potholes. If you can’t safely avoid a pothole, approach it slowly to reduce the impact to your vehicle and the road. 
• Cycle with caution. Bike lanes and boulevards are not immune to cracking. Ride carefully and report potholes when you see them. 

For Public Inquiries:   

Call or chat 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.