Local roadways buckling under pressure
By: Bret Lemoine
Updated: July 6, 2012
GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) High temperatures are causing dozens of problems on our roadways. The DOT estimates nearly there have been 20 cases of road buckling in the northeast part of our state. Last night, parts of 441 were shut down in Appleton for two hours as crews repaired the road.
When temperatures hit 90 degrees, pressure builds up under the concrete. Although, it has happened in 80 degree weather before. The concrete expands, and parts of the road buckles over each other. DOT officials say most of these incidents are minor. Concrete roads are at highest risk for this happening. But officials say most incidents are minor.
"Most of the time, people won't even notice them. They might feel a little bump in the road. We do correct them quickly. It's just clearing out rubble and putting on an asphalt patch," says Wisconsin DOT Communications Manager Kim Rudat.
