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1. How does the City decide which streets are to be overlaid with asphalt each year?

In order to be fair and scientific about these important decisions, the City employs a rating system for each street to prioritize the order of when a particular street will be overlaid. The system we use looks at the condition of the street and the volume of traffic. Each year, the street overlay program is compiled using this system. Then it is simply a matter of providing a sufficient budget for each year of street overlays.

2. How long does a typical asphalt overlay last?

The rule of thumb for this question is ten to twelve years. On the 1 to 10 condition rating, City streets average a little over 6. Our experience so far indicates that our overlay program will last an average of twelve years before needing another overlay. This figure, of course, is dependent upon proper maintenance (e.g., crack sealing) during the life of the overlay, as well as traffic volume and drainage issues.

3. I remember a time when the City sealed the streets every four or so years. Why don't you do that anymore?

We have begun using a process called microseal. We can protect a street in fair condition for an additional 4-5 years. The microseal does not smooth out a street but provides a wearing surface that also seals the street.