Why Isn’t My Road Graded Yet?

As snow melts in the shadow of spring’s arrival, many of us look forward to warmer weather and the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. However, this time of year also brings a unique set of challenges for our roads and the crews responsible for maintaining them. Let’s explore some common misunderstandings about spring road maintenance and what you should expect as the thaw sets in; and, more importantly, what you should not expect.

One misconception is that once the snow is gone, the roads should be in perfect condition. They were all under snow and protected from our tires, right? Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. Winter weather can take a heavy toll on our roadways, causing damage that may not be visible. Freeze-thaw cycles, where temperatures fluctuate above and below freezing, can lead to potholes and cracks in the pavement. As water seeps into these openings and freezes, it expands, causing further damage. When the ice melts, the road surface can become unstable and prone to crumbling.

Another misunderstanding is that road crews are not working hard enough to repair that damage. In reality, spring road maintenance is a complex and time-consuming process that requires careful planning and execution. Crews must check the extent of the damage, prioritize repairs based on safety and traffic volume, and coordinate with multiple agencies, municipal departments, and contractors to ensure that the work is completed efficiently and effectively. This process can take weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the damage and the resources available.

So, what can you expect during this time? First and foremost, be prepared for delays and detours. As crews work to repair the roads, they may need to close lanes or entire sections of the roadway. This can lead to increased traffic congestion and longer commute times. It is important to plan accordingly and allow extra time for your travels.

You should also be on the lookout for work zones and follow all posted signs and instructions. Slow down when approaching these areas and be prepared to stop if necessary. Remember, the crews are working hard to improve the roads for everyone's benefit, and their safety should be our top priority. If you know a road will be getting repaired on your way to or from work, plan to take an alternative route to decrease that congestion.

Another thing to keep in mind is that temporary fixes, such as filling potholes with cold patch material, are just that – temporary. These measures are intended to address immediate safety concerns and prevent further damage until more permanent repairs can be made. Do not be surprised if you see crews returning to the same area multiple times throughout the spring and summer to perform more comprehensive work. It does not mean they didn’t do it right the first time, it just means they need more effort.

Finally, it is essential to understand that spring road maintenance is a shared responsibility. While road crews are doing their part to repair and maintain our roadways, we as citizens can also play a role in preserving their longevity. One simple way to help is by reporting any damage or hazardous conditions to your local transportation department. The Mat-Su Borough has an online portal and a phone number where you can submit requests for repairs or alert them to potential issues. All three cities have phone numbers, as does the State of Alaska.

Spring road maintenance is a necessary and complex process that requires patience and understanding from all of us. A little bit of knowledge and cooperation can go a long way in improving our communities and our quality of life. Have a concern, question, or problem? Call the agency responsible for your area as each area has its own operational guidelines. Those phone numbers are:

City of Houston at 907-892-6869, City of Palmer at 907-745-3400, City of Wasilla at 907-373-9010, Mat-Su Borough at 907-861-7755, and State of Alaska at 907-745-2159. Do not be surprised if they “close” out your concern as completed before it has been. If you file a complaint during a time of the year that it cannot be addressed, they will not just leave it on the book as unfinished because the contractors would otherwise be penalized for lengthy repair timelines and for the number of unfulfilled orders.

Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaskan resident with over 25 years of public safety experience and public service. He runs a freelance business, Big Lake Writer, from home in Big Lake that he shares with his wife of 19 years and their three teenage sons.