More than 445 kilometres of seal coating is planned across Saskatchewan this summer, and two major projects are nearing completion in the Weyburn area.
The two projects currently being worked on include a $4.8 million project on Highway 13, in which 30 km of highway is being surfaced west of Weyburn, and a $10 million project on Highways 35 and 39 at Weyburn. In this project, crews are doing surfacing and improvements to intersections on Highway 35, and on Highway 39 from the junction at 16th Street to the junction at Government Road.
During the seal coating process, hot liquid asphalt is sprayed on the road before crushed gravel is spread over the asphalt and packed down.
“Seal coating is a cost-effective treatment that provides a waterproof surface, which in turn prolongs pavement life,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister David Marit said. “We appreciate everyone’s patience during the busy construction season and remind travellers to please pay attention in work zones, obey the signage and slow down.”
Seal coats require about 24 hours to cure, resulting in speed reductions even while workers are not present. These speed reductions allow the seal coat to cure properly, while also saving travellers windshields from damage. Seal coating is scheduled for later this construction season at a variety of locations, including Highway 39 near Lang and Midale.
There are many reasons work zones have temporary speed reductions left in place even when workers are not present. A sharp pavement drop, lane closure or loose gravel are examples of hazards that warrant a slower posted speed.
If you’re planning to travel, check the Highway Hotline at www.saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, which provides up-to-date information on construction, emergency road closures, the status of ferries, barges and other road activities.
