City gets ahead of pothole repairs

As temperatures begin to rise, Eagle Mountain City’s Streets department is taking proactive steps to repair potholes and keep roadways safe for motorists.

For the past month, crews have been working to address problem areas, particularly along Pony Express Parkway and Eagle Mountain Boulevard, which have seen the most damage this season.

Public Services Manager Zac Hilton explained that potholes form due to the freeze-thaw cycle common during the late winter months.

“Water finds its way into small cracks in the asphalt,” said Hilton. “When temperatures drop, that water freezes and expands, causing the asphalt to break apart. Then, as it thaws with warmer temperatures, it leaves behind holes in the roadway.”

While the number of potholes varies each year, Hilton noted that this winter has been relatively mild. Nevertheless, Eagle Mountain’s Streets department has been actively responding to reported potholes to prevent worsening road conditions and potential damage to vehicles.

To ensure long-lasting repairs, the Streets department uses a two-step approach. First, potholes are filled with a permanent cold asphalt mix, allowing crews to quickly address the immediate hazard. Later, they return to seal the patch with a mastic pavement material, which provides a more durable and weather-resistant finish.

“This process ensures that repairs last longer and helps prevent recurring damage in the same spots,” Hilton said. “We’re committed to keeping our roads in good condition and making sure residents have smooth and safe commutes.”

While the City’s streets crews actively monitor roads for damage, City officials encourage residents to report potholes to the City. This allows crews to respond more quickly to problem areas that may not have been identified yet.

“We do our best to spot and fix potholes as soon as possible, but resident reports really help us stay ahead,” Hilton emphasized.

Each year, Eagle Mountain City allocates between $10,000 and $15,000 toward pothole repairs, although that figure can reach as high as $50,000 in some years. While this amount fluctuates depending on the severity of the winter season, the investment helps ensure that the City’s roadways remain relatively well-maintained.

Residents are encouraged to do their part by reporting any concerns through the Resident Portal to help maintain smooth and safe streets in the community.