Arapahoe County used a record amount of asphalt for the 2022 summer paving program — over 44,000 tons to be exact. That’s the equivalent weight of four Eiffel Towers on unincorporated County roads. Ooh la la.
The mild fall weather allowed crews to complete seasonal goals and lay down a record 44,624 tons of asphalt on 18.4 miles of road, all with a budget of $6.2 million.
“This is the most tons of asphalt we’ve ever used,” said Michael Haraldson, Road and Bridge operations manager. “This is also the most residential neighborhoods we have ever paved in one season.”
Crews were able to meet goals despite staffing shortages plaguing many County offices.
“We pulled staff from different crews to complete our paving operations this year,” Haraldson said. “Everyone worked together to make the magic happen. This is a very dedicated crew.”
That dedication paid off in terms of miles of roads paved and the efficiency of which it was done. Crews usually average 200 tons of asphalt a day but were able to raise that number to 600-700 tons a day by reconfiguring teams to meet demand. The increased efficiency means better roads and less impact to drivers, residents and businesses.
“Paving quality is measured by several factors, including road thickness and hardness, smooth edges and good binding of materials,” Haraldson said. “We were able to meet all our goals while maintaining quality roads.”
Highlights of the paving program include road improvements in neighborhoods in the Four Square Mile Area and Box Elder Ranches and Stage Run subdivisions.
Along with the summer paving program, Road and Bridge crews also painted roadways and replaced street signs throughout unincorporated areas of the County.
Road and Bridge is gearing up for the 2023 paving program with an estimated 40,000 tons of asphalt and adding 2027 to its five-year paving plan. Check out this interactive map of future road improvement projects.
Road and Bridge continues to hire for various positions. View current job openings.