Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance tasks for county road commissions are critical for ensuring public safety, extending the lifespan of roads, and managing the overall costs of infrastructure. These tasks are designed to prevent the deterioration of roadways, bridges, and related structures through proactive measures. Here's a breakdown of common preventative maintenance tasks that the Grand Traverse County Road Commission may encounter:

 1. Pavement Maintenance:
   - Crack Sealing: Filling cracks in the road to prevent water infiltration, which can lead to potholes and pavement breakup.
   - Pothole Repair: Filling potholes to prevent vehicle damage and further deterioration of the road surface.
   - Seal Coating or Surface Treatments: Applying protective coatings to extend the life of road surfaces by sealing out moisture and reducing oxidation.
   - Overlay or Resurfacing: Adding a new layer of asphalt to existing road surfaces to provide a new wear surface and extend road life.

Additional Resources:
   - Effective Use of Chip Seals
   - Optimal Timing of Preventive Maintenance for Addressing Environmental Aging on Hot-Mix Asphalt Pavements
   - Technical Summary - Early Preventive Maintenance Extends Asphalt Pavement Life
   - Road Commission of Kalamazoo County (RCKC) - Changing the Mindset on Chip Seal

 2. Bridge Maintenance:
   - Inspections: Regularly inspecting bridges for structural integrity, including checking for cracks, rust, and other signs of wear.
   - Cleaning and Painting: Removing debris and repainting steel parts to prevent rust and corrosion.
   - Joint Repair: Replacing or repairing bridge joints to prevent water damage and reduce stress on the bridge structure.

 3. Drainage Maintenance:
   - Cleaning Drains and Ditches: Regular removal of debris from drainage systems to prevent water buildup on road surfaces.
   - Inspecting and Repairing Culverts: Ensuring that culverts are clear of debris and structurally sound to facilitate proper water flow.

 4. Vegetation Control:
   - Mowing: Keeping roadside vegetation at manageable levels to ensure visibility and prevent obstruction of road signs.
   - Tree Trimming: Cutting back trees and branches that can obscure signs, lights, or create hazards during storms.

 5. Traffic Control Device Maintenance:
   - Sign Replacement and Maintenance: Making sure all road signs are visible and in good condition.
   - Pavement Marking: Repainting lines and other markings on the road surface for clear traffic guidance.

 6. Winter Maintenance:
   - Snow and Ice Removal: Clearing snow and applying road salt or sand to prevent ice build-up and ensure safe driving conditions.
   - Equipment Preparation: Ensuring that snowplows and other winter maintenance equipment are ready for operation before the winter season.

 7. Roadside and Right-of-Way Maintenance:
   - Litter Removal: Keeping roadsides clean to maintain a positive community appearance and prevent hazards.
   - Obstruction Removal: Ensuring that sightlines at intersections are clear and that no obstructions hinder drivers' views.

 8. Safety Inspections:
   - Conducting Regular Safety Audits: Evaluating road conditions and identifying potential safety hazards to motorists and pedestrians for corrective action.

Implementing a comprehensive preventative maintenance program allows the Grand Traverse County Road Commission to effectively manage road networks, ensuring roads are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing while optimizing spending and resource use.