Asphalt Plants Open, Road Repairs Begin
With Ottawa’s asphalt plants opening for the season this week, the City can now begin using hot asphalt for more durable pothole repairs and start scheduling larger road rehabilitation projects across Ottawa.
This is an important seasonal shift. During the winter and colder early spring weather, asphalt plants are closed, which means City crews rely mostly on cold patch or cold mix. Since the start of the winter season, the roads team has filled over 106,350 potholes.
Cold patch is useful because it can be applied in cold temperatures and helps crews respond quickly to potholes that create safety concerns. However, it is generally a temporary repair. It does not bond to the road surface as strongly, and it can loosen again as vehicles pass over it, especially during wet weather or repeated freeze and thaw cycles.
Hot asphalt is a better and longer-lasting material. It is produced at a high temperature, placed while hot, and compacted into the road surface. When applied properly, it creates a stronger bond with the existing pavement and holds up much better under regular traffic. This is why residents often see a noticeable improvement in pothole repairs once the asphalt plants are open and crews can move beyond temporary winter patching.
The opening of asphalt plants also allows City staff to begin scheduling road rehabilitation work that requires warmer conditions and regular asphalt supply. These projects can include resurfacing, milling and paving, and other forms of road renewal. The City determines which roads are completed and when based on factors such as road condition, safety, traffic volumes, coordination with other infrastructure work, available funding, and public concerns.
I do not personally triage the City’s road list or decide the exact order in which roads are repaired. That responsibility rests with City staff. However, I can advocate for Ward 21, and I have done so consistently. I am pleased that we have secured the second-highest ward investment in roads in the city for 2026. I will continue pushing for fair and meaningful road investment across our rural communities, villages, and local neighbourhoods.
Residents can help by reporting potholes to 3-1-1 when they see them. These reports help City staff identify problem areas and respond more effectively. I also encourage residents to refer to the Ward 21 infrastructure map on Google Earth, which provides helpful information about road projects and local infrastructure investments.
Road conditions remain one of my top priorities, and I will continue working to ensure Ward 21 receives the attention and investment it deserves.