News
February 1, 2008
METRO USES ‘INFRARED PAVING’ TO REPAIR ROADS
New method is cheaper than paving, lasts longer than patchingNASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new pavement repair technique being utilized by Public Works costs much less than re-paving and is a durable repair for various surface distresses found on Metro roads.
“Infrared pavement repair” allows Public Works to repair more surface failures, utility cuts and other surface distresses over a larger area of pavement, saving time and money. The process heats up the old asphalt without damage to the existing asphalt, mixes it with new asphalt, fills in and smoothes out the repaired area. The final step applies a sealant around the edges to help keep the mix in place longer.
“Compared to the cost of repaving several hundred feet of roadway, using infrared techniques to repair defective areas are extremely cost effective and a much better value for Metro’s dollar,” Don Reid, Public Works Paving Manager, said.
This week and next, pavement repair contractors will be using the technique to repair several sections along Tusculum Road, the maximum cost of which will run about $15,000, according to Reid. The cost to repave that same stretch of roadway would be about $150,000.
“The beauty of this repair method is that it eliminates the need for paving until some time in the future. This increases the life of the roadway and saves taxpayers’ money,” Reid added.
Public Works is responsible for maintaining Metro Nashville’s 2,320 centerline miles of public streets and alleys.
Infrared Paving Repairs on Tusculum Road
