DeKalb County is deploying more resources to quickly repair potholes created and worsened by near-record rainfalls of more than 20 inches over the past 60 days.
“One of the most visible infrastructure problems created by recent weather is pavement damage,” said Rick Lemke, director of DeKalb County Public Works Department. “Rain turns small potholes into large ones when water intrudes into the road’s sub-base. In addition to a proliferation of potholes, cold and wet conditions prevent proper repair since repair material can’t bond property to wet pavement.”
With sunny skies predicted this Saturday, crews will be able to begin patching worn road surfaces. This is an all-hands-on-deck approach, with non-emergency construction crews reassigned to pothole response. Three contractors have been assigned to repair some of the worst pothole corridors in the county and instructed to fill each hole they encounter along the road. As weather allows and work is complete, they will receive new assignments.
“Since the beginning of the year, DeKalb Roads and Drainage crews have been working extra hours around the clock to ensure the safety of DeKalb citizens by responding to emergency calls to keep roads open,” said DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond. “This directed focus of resources will help restore the integrity of DeKalb’s roads.”
Citizens can report potholes by reporting the location to the pothole hotline at 404-297-3813.
1300 Commerce Drive Decatur, GA 30030
