Patch News About Patch Crews

As temperatures neared 50 degrees last week, most of us started thinking spring. Public services departments have other things on their mind this time of year – potholes.  

Kevin McCarthy, explained bumpy roads come with the freeze-thaw cycle. "On Monday we had temperatures around 40 degrees and overnight lows in the teens," he said. "The water gets in the cracks, freezes then expands, creating potholes.”  

Large potholes can damage cars or cause flat tires. Cold patch is not a cure all for Michigan roads, but it can prevent damage to vehicles by eliminating uneven spots and leveling the road surface, he said.

There is good news for Farmington Hills residents, McCarthy said. The city acquired a new cold patch machine in the fall of 2010. It has a larger capacity, allowing more work to be completed each day. Two crews were out last week attending to the roads.  

But it's tough to keep up. According to Farmington Hills Public Works employee Chris Patterson, “This time of year is always bad for potholes.” 

What can drivers do? “Be patient and slow down around the patch crews,” McCarthy said, adding that teams will be working on main roads through the area while the weather permits.  

Residents can advise the city of potholes on side streets or main roads. To report a pothole, contact the Department of Public Services Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m.-4:30p.m.

Farmington residents should call 248-472-7250; in Farmington Hills, call 248-871-2850.  

For commuters worried about potholes on freeways, there is more good news. The State of Michigan has a new online reporting system in place at drivemi.org. Be prepared to provide specific information on the location of the pothole.