DPW Gearing Up To Tackle Pothole Problem

Indianapolis drivers are dodging potholes around the city. However, the Department of Public Works promises help is on the way in the form of a pothole blitz will begin Monday.

DPW has ordered a full call-out of pothole crews armed with “hot mix” asphalt -- which provides a more reliable patch. 

DPW Director Dan Parker says they plan to take advantage of both the opening of asphalt plants and next week’s mild weather to address the rapid increase of potholes.

“The hot asphalt plants are not open in the winter time," Parker says. "That is why the city is going the extra way to pay to open the plants next week for hot mix and that is a lasting permanent fix.”

This is the second pothole blitz of the year.  A month ago, DPW ordered the early opening of the asphalt plant in January, but thousands of service requests remain unfilled. And DPW has only had access to “cold mix” asphalt, which is not a long-lasting fix.

“There’s been about 12,000 requests for service," Parker says. "We’ve filled about 6,000 of those. So obviously we have a lot to do.”

Residents can report potholes in Indianapolis through Request Indy, the Request Indy smartphone app, or the Mayor’s Action Center at 317­-327­-4622.

Potholes on an interstate highway, U.S. highway, or state road, can be reported to the Indiana Department of Transportation through www.indot4u.com or by calling 855-INDOT4U (463-6848).