Since March 24, residents of Saskatoon have reported a staggering 790 potholes through the city's official reporting map, according to Goran Saric, the director of roadways. This surge in pavement damage has highlighted ongoing infrastructure challenges in the city.
Freeze-Thaw Cycles Exacerbate Road Damage
Goran Saric explained that the frequent freeze-thaw cycles experienced in February and March have significantly worsened the pothole problem. "We've had multiple temperature swings and when temperatures rise above zero, water gets into cracks, and then freezes and expands," Saric stated.
This expansion from freezing water breaks apart pavement and exacerbates existing cracks. Additionally, water that collects and freezes can melt beneath the pavement layer, weakening the structural integrity of the roads. "Older pavements are definitely more susceptible to these moisture impacts," Saric added, noting that Saskatoon has experienced more melt days this winter compared to the past two years.
City's Repair Efforts and Resident Reporting
While the city conducts regular inspections, Saric emphasized that resident reports play a crucial role in the road repair process. People can report potholes through the city's website or, for more urgent cases that might cause damage or injury, by calling the customer care center at 306-975-2476.
For those whose vehicles have been damaged by potholes, the city provides an online platform to file claims. Currently, potholes are being addressed with temporary cold mix asphalt. Asphalt plants typically begin operations around mid-April, weather permitting, and the city plans to deploy 10 to 13 crews daily for road repairs.
Extensive Repair Operations Planned
"That will include up to eight city hotbox crews and two spray patchers, with up to five contractor crews supporting the work," Saric detailed. These crews will work extended hours, with shifts spanning 10 to 12 hours per day, including both day and night coverage seven days a week. "Our spray patchers also work extended and early hours, especially on high-speed roads, sometimes starting as early as three or four in the morning," he added.
Historical Context and Annual Repair Data
Last year, the city dedicated 35,000 labor hours to pothole repairs, utilizing approximately 2,200 tonnes of asphalt—a 20 percent increase from the previous year. Saric anticipates that this season will require at least the same or even higher quantities of hot mix asphalt.
All reported potholes are inspected and prioritized based on severity, with emergency repairs being made safe within 24 to 72 hours. Historical records from the Saskatoon StarPhoenix reveal that pothole issues are not new; an article from April 1970 described how a pothole grounded a city bus on its axles, indicating that this perennial problem has persisted for decades.
The combination of harsh winter conditions and aging infrastructure continues to challenge Saskatoon's road maintenance efforts, underscoring the importance of both proactive city measures and vigilant resident reporting to ensure public safety and smooth transportation.
