Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works will conduct a pothole “blitz” beginning Monday.
Department director Mike Gable said they have been patching potholes from last winter all spring, summer and fall, but the window for the production and use of “hot mix” is closing soon.
“That’s the stuff you’d rather work with rather than the cold patch,” Gable said. “Last year we learned with the cold patch it’s a very temporary fix. The hot mix bonds better, stays in the hole better and we get longevity out of it.”
Hot mix uses a combination of sand, stone or gravel bound together by asphalt cement. Because the department has been diligently filling holes, Gable said he’s not sure all three days of the blitz will be necessary.
“We’re going to work a 12-hour window: 6 o’clock in the morning to 6 o’clock at night for three days, and we’ll see if we need to do it all three days or not," Gable said. "This is weather permitting. I understand we’re supposed to get some snow Monday.”
City residents can report potholes that need to be backed through the 3-1-1 call center or by texting or calling (412) 573-9736. Submissions can also be sent via Twitter @Pgh311.
