Weather permitting, the City of Pierre will begin its 2020 chip seal operation next week.
Throughout the five-week operation, the City will chip seal nearly 130 blocks of city street. “No parking” signs will be placed in construction areas prior to road work. Because chip sealing is a rolling operation, traffic disruptions will be minimal. However, flaggers will be at impacted intersections to guide motorists through work zones.
“The process does include use of oil and loose rocks that can adhere to cars, shoes, and pets. Until the chip seal has dried, motorists should consider alternate routes and pedestrians should avoid the treated surface,” said Brad Palmer, City Utilities Director.
Chip sealing is a preservation tactic used to mitigate weather-related damage and extend the life of street surfaces. It also enhances skid resistance to improve driving safety. The City maintains more than 80 miles of streets.