As spring arrives, after a snowy winter marked by dozens of freeze-thaw cycles, potholes are once again popping-up, by the thousands, across Ottawa roads. Many city crews are working to keep up, using both traditional methods, like shovels and hand tampers, and newer technology to repair the damage. Among the tools being used this season are two rented Python 5000 machines, self-contained units designed to quickly patch potholes on busy roads. The machines are operated by a single person and can work in live traffic, allowing crews to target high-risk areas such as intersections and major roadways without requiring full lane closures. “They’re typically filling hundreds of potholes in a shift,” said Bryden Denyes, area manager of roads services with the City of Ottawa. “It allows us to really focus on specific areas, really our problem spots, where we want to limit our staff that are working on the roads. With that one-person operation, they do not have to get out of the vehicle, so it’s much safer working through intersections on higher-speed roadways, where the risk is higher for staff working on the road.” In previous years, the city has used one Python 5000 and this year, the city is adding a second to the fleet. The city says it’s opted to rent the machines for the spring rather than purchase them, citing high maintenance costs. Traditional road crews remain a key part of the effort, with dozens deployed across the city to fill potholes manually. Denyes says Ottawa typically fills more than 200,000 potholes each year, depending on weather conditions. Ottawa Councillor Tim Tierney says crews have already been busy early in the season. “Over 12 tons of asphalt have been dumped in three days already,” he says. “And we want the public’s help finding these holes. City crews actually go on a daily list with the help of residents letting us know where to find them. So, tell us where the potholes are. Let’s get them filled up.” Residents can report potholes to the city by calling 3-1-1 or by going online on the City of Ottawa’s website to help crews prioritize repairs.
