Potholes can be a pain: City of Colorado Springs is working to ensure smoother pavement
City crews continue to tackle the pothole problem in Colorado Springs.
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) - Last year, city crews repaired more than 85,000 potholes, and this year, they’ve already fixed over 34,000. Officials attribute the increase in potholes to drastic weather changes in the area. A Colorado Springs mechanic explains vehicles can typically withstand impacts from potholes, but tires often struggle, especially when hit on the side.
“Forty percent of our repairs are suspension-related. And that means that can include ball joints, control arms, sweep bar end links, wheel bearings and potholes. Taking that impact and a pothole with one of your wheels affects all of that,” said Anthony’s Pro Auto owner Richard Bauer.
In March, 2C paving crews addressed more than double the usual number of potholes for that period, underscoring the severity of the issue. The city of Colorado Springs reports that this year’s volume of potholes is typical, although the recent heavy snowstorm, characterized by high moisture content, exacerbated the problem.
This time of year is particularly rough due to increased snowfall, which leads to melting and refreezing -- conditions that are just right for creating potholes.
Bauer offers valuable advice for drivers.
“Don’t fall too close. You fall too close. You can’t see a pothole come fall you know give yourself plenty of ample space. Try to avoid the pothole. And if you can’t, don’t try to avoid it where it’s dangerous. The best model is just slow down,” Bauer said.
Bauer emphasizes the importance of regular alignment checks every six months to prevent premature tire wear and other potential issues.
Click here for more on the City’s 2C program.
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