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WYDOT begins chip sealing north of Thermopolis

Wyoming Department of Transportation chip sealing crews kicked off their summer work season with chip sealing north of Thermopolis and west of Ten Sleep. Drivers should expect traffic delays of up to 20 minutes, and pilot cars will control speeds through the chip-sealing zone.

“Please drive carefully and obey reduced speed limits near chip sealing operations,” said WYDOT spokesman Cody Beers. “Crews will be working during the days and into the nights, and safe driving and safe work operations are very important throughout these projects. Please be patient as this important work is being completed.

“The chip seals will be swept at the end of each day, but some loose rock may still be present. Drivers are asked to slow down in these areas in order to prevent windshield damage after operations have ceased for the day. We appreciate everyone’s patience.”

Chip sealing is important:

• To seal the pavement surface and keep water from penetrating the road structure on paved surfaces.

• To fill and seal cracks and raveled surfaces of old pavement.

• To provide an anti-glare surface during wet weather and an increased reflective surface for night driving.

• To provide a highly skid-resistant surface, particularly on wet pavements.

• Chip sealing pavements is the least expensive, most cost effective way of preserving asphalt pavements.

Motorists are asked to exercise caution in highway construction projects. Reduced speed limits will be posted, enforced and help keep you safe; leaving home early for work and activities is advised. During the chip seal process, from the time the gravel is placed on the road to when excess rock is swept away, the speed limit is reduced so vehicles should not be damaged by flying rocks.

Traffic moving at higher speeds can create dust, limit visibility, and can cause gravel to break loose from a fresh chip seal which creates the risk of flying rock. Rocks thrown from your tires may crack or break a windshield. Flying rocks may also injure pedestrians, bicycle riders, or motorcyclists.

By driving at slower speeds, you protect your vehicle from unnecessary damage that can be caused by the sprayed asphalt and loose gravel. The slower speed also decreases the chance of damage from rocks which may be thrown up from other vehicles.

 

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