Montreal Roads Suffering from Pothole Pandemic
Marianick Baril, a Montreal resident, has faced a string of flat tires, totaling eight since Christmas. She now navigates her daily commute not based on travel time but by seeking out streets with the fewest potholes to avoid further damage to her vehicle.
This winter has been especially challenging for Baril and other drivers in Montreal, with a surge in pothole-related complaints. Officials reported 3,824 complaints between Jan. 1-27, a significant increase from the previous year.
Baril expressed frustration at the deteriorating road conditions, having spent around $3,500 on repairs for her vehicle. However, efforts are being made to address the city’s longstanding asphalt issues. A specialized laboratory at a Montreal technology college is working to find solutions, led by engineering Prof. Alan Carter.
Carter highlighted the lack of funding and political will as major obstacles in improving road maintenance. He emphasized the importance of long-term upkeep in infrastructure projects to prevent further deterioration.
The lab is experimenting with new asphalt mixes suitable for Quebec winters and exploring the use of recycled materials to enhance road durability. However, Carter noted the challenges in implementing these innovations due to budget constraints and lack of collaboration from government departments.
A recent report estimated that poor road conditions cost Quebec motorists significantly in vehicle repairs annually, underscoring the need for better infrastructure maintenance.
Keyphrase: Montreal road conditions
