Released on July 11, 2019
More than 400 kilometres of seal coating are planned or under way in Saskatchewan this summer.
During the construction of a seal coat, hot liquid asphalt is applied to the road surface before crushed gravel is spread over the asphalt and packed down. This process creates a waterproof layer that seals the cracks and protects the surface.
“Seal coating prolongs pavement life and has proven to be a cost-effective treatment,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Lori Carr said. “Please drive carefully and slow down so our crews can do their work safely and return home at the end of the day.”
Seal coats require about 24 hours to cure, resulting in speed reductions. These speed reductions allow the seal coat to cure properly, while also saving windshields from damage.
Some of the seal coating work this week will affect the areas of:
- Caronport
- Craik
- Ernfold
- Gull Lake
- Herbert
- Moose Jaw
- Mortlach
- Parkbeg
- Swift Current
There are many reasons work zones have temporary speed reductions left in place even when workers are not present. A sharp pavement drop, lane closure or loose gravel are examples of hazards that warrant a slower posted speed.
When loose gravel is present, during the construction of seal coat treatments, the stones can easily be kicked up by cars and trucks travelling in the opposite direction. A slower speed reduces the risk of damage, so slow down to save your own vehicle.
If you’re planning to travel, check the Highway Hotline at www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, which provides up-to-date information on construction, emergency road closures, the status of ferries, barges and other road activities. Information is also available by calling 511.
A weekly highway construction update is also published on www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/transportation/highway-construction-projects/weekly-highway-construction-update to provide the travelling public with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel. You can also report a highway work zone signing problem by calling 306-244-5535.
The Government of Saskatchewan has invested $9 billion in highways and infrastructure since 2008.
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For more information, contact:
Steve Shaheen
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-933-5641
Email: steve.shaheen@gov.sk.ca