Pothole season is in full bloom

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 28/03/2012 (4950 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Spring has arrived in Winnipeg and there is a glaring problem with our roads — potholes.

More than ever, they seem to be a nuisance for cars on the road, especially in the East Kildonan area.

However, there is one winner in this scenario — mechanics who experience an increase in business during the early months of spring.

Should the city be responsible for the damages, or is it up to drivers to slow down and take precautions?

East Kildonan resident, Sara James, thinks the city should be partially responsible.

“Look, we all have to drive safer during this time of the year, but sometimes these things are unavoidable. Odds are you will run over a pothole at least once during the spring. It’s inevitable,” James said.

The city says it is doing its best to fix the problem. They have six machines that can fix anywhere from 25 to 50 potholes a day.

That is not enough for this East Kildonan resident, who says the potholes down Munroe Avenue and London Street are unbearable.

“The city needs to fix these right now. If I hit a pothole, I don’t plan on paying for the cost fully by myself,” she said.

“I think there should be a split plan. Maybe 60/40 tops, but there is no way I am paying for all of the damages. There is only so much you can do as a driver.”

City officials are urging residents to call 311 if they spot any more potholes and crews will be dispatched to fix them as soon as possible.

Blair Wynnyk, who works at North Star Bumpers, said business typically increases during spring because of potholes.

“Our front-end repairs increase during the spring. There is a considerable increase from late winter to early summer,” Wynnyk said.

“Being a driver I understand being frustrated with the road conditions, but drivers have to be accountable. On the other hand our business increases drastically, so I can’t say I’m concerned about the issue.”

If individuals have concerns about potholes in their area they are advised to call 311 or contact Manitoba Public Insurance.

Citizens can contact the city’s claims department directly, but if they do so they will have to handle the details that an MPI adjustor would normally take care of.

Brandon Logan is a community correspondent for East Kildonan. You can contact him at  brandonl91@hotmail.com.