Public works reports heavy winter damage to pavement; crews using cold patch and scheduling hot mix repairs

Commissioners used the meeting’s other business and citizens‑forum time on March 24 to raise concerns about a surge in potholes across the city after an unusually cold and variable winter.

Jim Toyds, director of public works, told the commission that crews have been working several weeks to address potholes and utility patches and that the department is prioritizing repairs based on severity. Toyds said crews are currently using cold‑mix asphalt to fill as many potholes as possible and will return later with hot‑mix repairs where appropriate. He provided a public contact number for requests: General Services at 785‑309‑5750.

Toyds said pavement damage appears to be related to an extended freeze‑thaw season and temperature fluctuations that increased pavement deterioration. He told the commission staff expects the repair effort to continue for several weeks and that the current budget can cover the increased workload without an immediate supplemental request.

Commissioners suggested the city consider a capital purchase — such as a hot‑box for keeping asphalt mix warm at the jobsite — to improve efficiency and reduce physical strain on crews. Toyds welcomed the idea and said crews would not object to additional equipment to make repairs safer and faster. Commissioners also asked how to report curb lips and pavement transitions that can be hazardous; Toyds said either General Services or engineering can be contacted and the department will evaluate whether panels should be ground or removed and replaced.

Toyds also noted he will retire this Friday; commissioners thanked him for his service.