San Francisco Public Works’ Roadway Improvement Project Kicks Off Today

For immediate release: Aug. 25, 2020

Contact: Rachel Gordon: rachel.gordon@sfdpw.org

 

Crews Applying a Micro-surface Seal to Extend the Life of Approximately 100 Blocks

 

 

San Francisco – Today marks the start of a roadway improvement project to resurface approximately 100 blocks over the next month to make City streets safer and smoother for all users.

 

San Francisco Public Works’ contractor crews are applying a thin layer of protective material on top of the existing asphalt pavement to prolong the life of the streets – a process known as micro-surfacing.

 

The annual micro-surfacing operation preserves asphalt pavement by protecting the surface from the effects of natural aging and the environment caused by inclement weather, excessive heat and the searing effects of the sun. The mixture of liquid oil and crushed rock used for micro-surfacing can extend the life of pavement at a fraction of the cost by restoring the surface of a roadway and sealing off any moisture and preventing oxidation that can cause deterioration and require more costly repairs later.

 

Micro-surfacing takes two days to complete per block, compared to several days or weeks for a full roadway reconstruction operation that includes street base repairs and repaving.

 

The street improvements are taking place in neighborhoods throughout San Francisco, among them Potrero Hill, the Sunset, the Bayview, the Mission, Diamond Heights, Sunnyside and Oceanview.

 

More details on the micro-surfacing project, including parking and traffic restrictions, work hours and the micro-surfacing process, can be found at www.sfpublicworks.org/microsurfacing

 

About San Francisco Public Works: The 24/7 City agency cleans and resurfaces streets; plants and nurtures City-maintained street trees; designs, constructs and maintains City-owned facilities; inspects streets and sidewalks; builds curb ramps; eradicates graffiti; partners with neighborhoods; trains people for jobs; greens the right of way; and educates our communities.