NORTH END, Idaho — As ACHD's crews work their way through the North End of Boise, some residents tell Idaho News 6 they remain hopeful for long-term road improvements despite short-term disruptions.
ACHD gave the following statement to drivers in the area regarding the chip seal process:
"Drivers are reminded to slow down in the chip seal zone to avoid kicking up rocks that can damage windshields. Regarding tires, there are many factors that lead to tire wear, and chip seal contributes minimally to that wear, compared to any other road surface," said ACHD. "We know chip seal can be an inconvenience for commuters and residents. But compared to other treatments, chip seal is much less impactful. Other road treatments, such as a mill and inlay, cost more and take longer to complete. We appreciate the patience from the community during the chip seal operations so that we can keep the roads in good condition."
- Chip seal is a road maintenance process that creates a protective surface layer on roads.
- For more information on where chip seal crews are heading next, click here.
(Below is the transcript from the broadcast story)
"I'm very disappointed with the chipsealing process," says one Boise resident.
The Ada County Highway District's yearly road maintenance makes its way to Boise's North End. It’s called chipsealing, and ACHD told us earlier this season the process aims to preserve county roads.
"We start by putting emulsion down, then lay chips over the top, and finally go over it with rollers to orient the chips into the roadway," says Deputy Director of Maintenance at ACHD, Jennifer Berenger.
Crews are currently moving west to east through North End streets, tackling residential roads in procession, initially leaving loose gravel chips. For a neighborhood that relies heavily on street parking, it can cause some headaches.
"It's definitely causing a lot more traffic, and I'm sure if you do park on the street, it's super inconvenient for you," says another resident.
Beyond the inconvenience, residents are concerned about their vehicles.
"I've absolutely noticed that our tires wear out way faster," says one resident.
"I think it can definitely ruin windshields," says another resident.
ACHD installed speed limit signs, reminding drivers to move slowly on the freshly covered road. At the end of the day, "So when they do Harrison or 15th, I'll probably stay off those streets for a week or two."
Residents tell me the process moved through the area relatively quickly. "I think the roads clearly need some help, so hopefully it'll take care of some of that," says a Boise resident.
