Pavement preservation project underway on KY 172 in Morgan County
JACKSON, Ky. – A pavement preservation project intended to extend the life of the driving surface is underway along a section of KY 172 in Morgan County.
The work zone extends from the US 460 intersection (milepoint 0.0) to the Elk Fork bridge (milepoint 2.762) and will result in a 25 mph speed limit for the duration of the project. It consists of two phases, a chip seal operation followed by microsurface application.
Contractors will first apply an oil-based sealant and then spread limestone chips over it. These layers are then pressed together by rollers.
After an initial cure, usually that same day, traffic will be allowed back on the treated lane. However, motorists should remember that it’s not the final driving surface and should drive with caution due to the potential for loose gravel on the highway. Weather permitting, this work will be performed Friday and Saturday, July 26-27. The speed limit will be reduced to 25 mph during the project.
Once the first limestone chip and sealant layer are complete, the roadway must cure under traffic for two to three days. Then, contractors will apply a very thin blacktop layer over the chips to create the final driving surface. This work is expected to occur next week. It, too, is weather-dependent.
Traffic will be controlled by flaggers during both phases of the project. Drivers should be aware of flaggers, workers, and equipment in the work zone, and should obey the posted 25 mph speed limit.
Preventive maintenance pavement preservation projects such as this are a proactive approach to maintaining Kentucky roads by using treatments other than traditional asphalt resurfacing. These treatments can last up to 60 percent as long as traditional asphalt resurfacing, but for 30 percent of the cost. They have been used in several locations around the 10-county District 10 area in recent years. Preventive maintenance slows pavement deterioration, corrects minor surface defects, and increases safety.
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