Does the city know how to fix potholes? I’ve noticed that the city has begun to address the pothole problem on our streets. I doubt that the way that it’s being done is effective.

I asked ChatGPT how to fix potholes and here is their answer: 1) Clean the pothole: Use a broom or a blower to remove any loose debris or dirt from the pothole. This will help ensure that the patching material adheres properly to the surrounding blacktop. 2) Apply a tack coat: A tack coat is a thin layer of asphalt emulsion that helps the patching material bond to the existing blacktop. Apply the tack coat to the edges and bottom of the pothole. 3) Fill the pothole: Fill the pothole with a suitable patching material, such as cold patch asphalt, hot mix asphalt, or a polymer-modified asphalt mixture. Compact the material using a tamper or a roller to ensure that it is level with the surrounding blacktop. 4) Seal the patch: Apply a seal coat or a surface treatment to the patched area to protect it from water infiltration and further damage. This can help extend the life of the repair.

As far as I can tell, the city is only doing step three, filling the pothole and compacting the material. Skipping all the other steps may be cheaper, but my guess is that the patches being done won’t last more than a year or two.

Do it right, or or not at all!

Thomas Engel

PORT TOWNSEND