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Spring forward into frost heave

As spring thaw begins, so does pothole season; City is asking motorists to be patient

City of Cranbrook Public Works crews are busy patching potholes as the weather increases pothole reports around town.

Potholes are caused when rain or snow runoff seep into the ground, freeze and then thaw, causing the road surface to crack. Eventually, with heavy traffic loads, the cracks become potholes.

Public Works is kept busy repairing road defects at this time of year with limited resources, according to the city.

"When a pothole is reported to us, the repair work is scheduled and carried out accordingly," said Public Works Director Joe McGowan. "In normal circumstances our crews can respond to pothole repairs in a timely manner. During extreme and unfavourable weather conditions when pothole problems are numerous and proper repair work cannot be carried out, only temporary repairs will be made until conditions improve."

The City is letting drivers know that under the Local Government Act, a municipality is not legally responsible for ensuring roads are always free of defects and hazards, nor is it liable for damages caused by a breakdown in the road.

To make a successful claim, the city must be found to have been negligent in the particular circumstances. Motorists must provide the city with a written notice of intent within two months of the incident leading to the claim.

To report a pothole, contact Public Works at 250-489-0218.