The City of Pierre Streets Department has begun seasonal crack sealing operations as part of its ongoing pavement maintenance program.
Crack sealing is an important preventative maintenance process that helps extend the life of city streets. During the process, crews thoroughly clean existing cracks in asphalt pavement and fill them with a hot-applied sealant. This prevents water from entering the pavement and damaging the underlying base and surface layers.
Pierre Street Superintendent Nick Hericks said crack sealing is one of the most cost-effective ways to maintain streets. He said by sealing cracks early, they can prevent water damage and extend the life of the pavement by several years.
City crews prioritize streets based on pavement condition. Streets staff regularly inspect roadways throughout the city and focus first on areas where cracks are most severe. As work progresses, crews may move to additional streets if time and materials allow.
Crews typically plan several weeks of work during the season and adjust locations as conditions are evaluated. This approach allows the City to focus first on streets that need the most immediate attention while maximizing available materials and time.
Crack sealing is performed during this time of year because pavement cracks are typically at their widest, allowing the sealant to penetrate more effectively. Cooler temperatures also help the material set more quickly, allowing traffic to resume without picking up the sealant.
The process can extend pavement life by approximately three to five years, helping the City protect its investment in street infrastructure.
Residents may notice crews working in various neighborhoods over the next several weeks. Minor traffic delays may occur while work is underway, and motorists are asked to slow down and use caution when driving near crews and equipment.
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