MoDOT launches enhanced pothole patrol

MoDOT crews will repair potholes on Mason Road near the Interstate 64/Route 40 interchange today as one of the first roads to benefit from this improved pothole program. Crews will repair the potholes early and get the asphalt mix in while the hole is still small, benefiting both the department and motorists. MoDOT urges motorists to report potholes by calling 1-888 ASK MoDOT or visit www.modot.org/stlouis.

Potholes form when temperatures warm up during the day, but continue to be cold at night. This is the main cause of potholes in highways and why they are prevalent during spring season. The rain and snow from winter leave moisture that seeps into the cracks and joints in the pavement. When temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands the pavement. This expansion causes the pavement to bulge and crack. When cars drive over the bulging pavement, it eventually causes chunks of pavement to pop out.

The goal for this initiative is to temporarily patch the pothole as quickly as possible. That patch will be replaced with a permanent repair in the spring or early summer.